Maybe its Best? OFFICIAL Ch 12
Recap
"You can always stay here."
"I couldn't." Kin told him.
"Let's get your dogs, and then you can let me know." Kin nodded but asked "Why are you doing this?"
"I want to."
"Why?" her voice was soft.
"Because, I think you've gone through enough and I wouldn't want you to worry about where you are staying for the night."
Zaku was mad, Kin had broken up with him but she would be back and he was right. Only thing was she had been back with some asshole to pick up her stuff and her stupid dogs. Both of them were on his hit list.
"You'll regret this." Zaku commented. Itachi didn't even bother on saying anything. He looked at Kin who had a medium suitcase "Ready?" she asked Itachi.
The pup still in his arms he nodded and opened the door "Come on Okami." The black German Shepard followed her and Itachi closed the door. Once inside the car, she was quiet. Pancake was clearly happy to be in her mom's arms. Okami was in the back seat sniffing away, smelling the Dobermans scent.
Yuji stopped seeing two new dogs "Be nice, Yuji. They'll be here for a while." Itachi took Pancake from Kin and put her down and couldn't help but smile seeing the little bundle run towards the family room.
Kin was standing in the middle of the living room when he looked at her "Kin?" he softly said her name only for her to break down, he hugged her "It's going to be okay."
Kin was now sitting on the lounge side of the black leather U sectional in the living room with Pancake on her lap.
"So?" Kin looked at him; she knew he was referring to his question on hour ago. Kin knew that if it wasn't for Itachi offer, she would be in some hotel room, her dogs cooped up inside.
She still had business in Oto with her older brother Dosu so she would be gone for days on end.
She let Pancake go and she ran towards Itachi only for her to fall to the floor. Kin gasped but Itachi picked her up and chuckled "Didn't quite make it huh?" she wiggled in his arm and he looked up at Kin "What do you say?"
"Yes but I'm willing to pay rent."
"House is already paid." Itachi responded as he put down Pancake "How about you just help around the house?" that seemed fair.
"Okay."
"Okay, what?"
"I'll stay. I really…I don't know how to thank you."
"I'll think of something." And he would.
"I'll show you around. Obviously you've seen the living room, the family room and the kitchen."
"Obviously."
"Come on." He told her as he took both suitcase, which had been near the front door and made their way past the living room and stopped by the large black five shelf bookshelf. They stopped in front of a white door "Open it-" his voice sounded…
She opened it and she gasped "This is your room."
Her gasped was followed by a sudden "Wow-" the room was beautiful. A purple and gray shag rug was just at the end of the bed, it matched the curtains and two of the four pillow cases, the other two were dark gray, which matched the walls.
Kin walked inside and saw a cozy shag bean bag that was a perfect match with the rug in the corner, a night small table with a chair and on the other side of the bed was the night stand with a lamp and a small purple orchid on it.
At the end of the bed there were two black woven hampers "For your laundry." Itachi told her "Wow" she said again.
She slid the closet, which was half of the wall; the other wall had a full size mirror and 3 U shelfs, two which had little decors, "I left the third one empty in case you want to fill it with books or something."
In the corner near the beanbag was a large black dog bed, which by now Okami was lying on, Pancake was still exploring the house, somewhere. At the moment he had Yuji in his room, he knew Yuji wasn't territorial but he did need a break from the energetic Pancake.
"Come on, I'll show you the rest so you can rest." They left the suitcases near the closet and he stopped
"Main bathroom."
"How did you have time to decorate?"
"I texted Hinata after she left with Naruto, about you possibly staying here."
"So you knew I was going to say yes?" she couldn't help but tease him.
"No, but I was hoping that by showing you the room and seeing the dogs making themselves at home would change your mind." she could hear the sincerity in his words.
"Thank you again." they made their way back to the living room down a small hallway he slid a large white barn door reveling a dryer and a washer.
"Machines on this side" he walked to the other side on the door "Closet space where the cleaning supplies, soap, detergent and the dog treats, I tend to keep this side closed." She smiled "As you should, Okami likes c-o-o-k-i-e-s." Itachi nodded.
Kin began walking towards the living when she stopped "I'm guessing your room?" she pointed straight ahead, since it was most likely the master bedroom.
"No," he knocked at the door she was leaning against "This is my room, that's-" he walked past her and pushed open the door, she quickly followed behind only for her to gasp "You have a home theater and a bar-" she smiled seeing the poker table and pool table, she grab the black eight ball from the table and looked at him "You play?"
"You'll have to find out." She set it back and opened a door bear the wall "That's the other bathroom" Itachi said, she closed the door and looked at him "Must be nice having this."
"It's actually the second time I've stepped inside after the remodeling."
"You had this rebuild?" he was leaning again the door frame "This use to be my parent's bedroom." Kin looked at him "Both my parents died-" Kin looked at him "I'm sorry to hear that."
"They weren't much of a family to me…" the only family he has now is…Sasuke. He let out a sigh and finished "I had this built in because I knew sooner or later I would be either selling this place or finally settling in."
"Glad you didn't sell the house." He looked at her and smiled "Me too." she could feel blushing as she smiled back but before she could say anything Pancake waddled in "There you are." Kin smiled as she called her over and picked her up Pancake yawned "Oh someone is tired."
"Guess it's been a long day for you both." Itachi commented as Kin yawn shortly after. Kin walked past him "Yeah." Itachi didn't even bother on closing the door, now that he wasn't going to sell the place; he knew he'd be in there more.
Kin carried Pancake to the bedroom, which she wasn't sure if she had already seen or not "How do you like the place Panpan?" Pancake began licking her face "Okay, okay." She laughed. Itachi was leaning against the door frame.
He had to give something special to Hinata before she went back to work on Monday; even though he didn't like the idea of her working he knew Hinata was happy so he wasn't going to oppose to that.
Tsunade had giving her the okay to go back and she couldn't have been happier, for the past three months she had been under a lot of stress and with the attack on Suna not too long ago, no one was going to risk having her away at the hospital and don't forget the back and forth from the Leaf to the Sand.
The head nurse and Tsunade had giving her the recommended time and once she got the okay from them. Hinata couldn't believe it until she had gotten a call from Ino and Sakura, both were squealing with joy.
Hinata was so happy to be back; even thought it would be mostly paperwork, a patient here and there but she was happy. No crazy hours either, 10 am to 4pm, Wednesday and Saturday off and Sunday's she'd work from 12pm to 5 pm.
"You okay?" she blinked seeing Kin in front of him with a questionable look "I'm fine, you should rest."
Pancake was now snuggled next to Okami and with a smile on her face Kin couldn't help herself "Thanks again for everything-" She hesitated before she walked over towards him and hugged him "-for today."
"No problem." Itachi hugged her back.
…
"Aren't you happy about Hinata coming back to work?" Ino smiled.
"Yeah-" Sakura said putting the rim of the coffee cup towards her lips.
"What's wrong?" Ino asked as she poured herself a cup of orange juice. Ino and Sakura were both in the single department of the relationship store.
Ino and Chouji had both left in good terms; after a few months into the relationship both had expressed that they no longer felt the same way about each other.
They still cared for each other. Chouji had given her a hug and wished her to be happy as she did the same for him. Chouji is an amazing man and any girl would be lucky to be with him.
Sakura on the other hand; well there is no other way of putting it…she had fucked up. She was in a good relationship with Naruto and she messed that up by getting drunk and fucked some guy. She had felt so guilty but ended up telling Naruto.
Naruto was heartbroken. Sakura had let a good man down, she still felt bad but there was nothing she could do. She was just hoping he would forgive her.
But on a more cheerful note, both of them had moved in together. They found a 3 bedroom apartment near the Yamanaka estate and the stadium. Close to the hospital too, only two blocks away. It was nice, quieter than they thought; since the exams only happened twice a year.
It was fully furnished, they only needed to buy a few things like the flat screen (which her dad had bought as a home warming gift) the mattresses along the bed sets.
They found other things like the cabinets, tables and the table for the dining room from friends, garage sales or online.
Ino snapped her fingers "Hey, are you listening?"
"Huh?"
"You're going to be late." Sakura put the cup down "Oh shoot, hate that you're off today."
"I'll be in the flower shop thought, got a lot of orders to do. See you tonight."
"See you, I'll bring dinner tonight."
"Okay!" Ino yelled as she heard the front door closed. Ino put the dishes in the mashing and headed out. Ino was currently walking when she stopped and noticed a box near a garbage can just a block from the apartment.
"Oh my god-" she looked around "-who would-" she took out her phone "Hana? Hey quick favor, can you stop by the flower shop?"
"I'll be there in 5 mins. Thanks." She put the two little bundles in her hoodie pocket and made her way to the flower shop.
"Hana-"
"What's up, you sounded worried? You okay?" Ino smiled as she looked inside a small box "I'm fine, this little guy however-" Hana walked over towards the counter and peeked inside "Oh my goodness."
"A baby raccoon." little thing couldn't be more than 5 week old
"Where did you find him?"
"Someone must have thrown him away or he might have wondered off; poor little thing." Ino pouted as she looked at Hana "What's going to happen to him?"
"Well, I'm glad you called me. He'll be fine."
"Were you with Iruka?" Hana nodded as he put it back down with the other one "And Naruto."
"How is he?" Ino asked. She'd been worried about him. It's been three weeks since the breakup; she hadn't heard from him. No invitation to Ichiraku or he didn't even stop by the flower shop to annoy her.
Hana looked up at her. She knew Ino was close to Sakura but overall cared for Naruto "He's doing better."
"I miss seeing him around."
…
Hana sigh remembering seeing Naruto sad in front of Iruka' apartment building Kyuubi nudging him in the face, trying to lick him and get his attention.
Iruka' father instinct kicked in and as he walked over towards him, she was right behind him. This was more than a Sakura fight "Naruto-" Iruka voice held concern as her called out to him and he sat next to him "-what's wrong?"
But hearing Naruto say, "Was I not good enough to Sakura that she had to cheat on me?" that was hard for her and she knew it was hard on Iruka.
"I'm sorry Naruto." She could hear Iruka voice sound sad for him.
"Was I not good enough?" she felt her heart hurt for him so she kneeled down and put her hands on his shoulders "Naruto look at me-" she said and couldn't help but feel even more bad seeing his sad blue eyes "-I saw how you treated her and let me say you were better than enough towards her."
She could see tears form in his beautiful sea color eyes but before she could say anything his head dropped on her shoulder so she hugged him "You're an amazing guy Naruto and she lost that."
She cleared her throat and stood up, helping Naruto get on his feet. Kyuubi was happy to see him up as he ran around, Iruka quickly picked him up.
"I know it's hard but you'll find someone who will be worth all that you can offer."
His eyes were still sad but a small smile "Thank you Hana-" he looked at back at Iruka who was struggling with a happy squirmy fox "Thank you for letting me stay here tonight."
…
"He's doing better, I promise. It's just-" she petted the small raccoon "-Naruto has a big heart so it'll take a bit more time."
"I know. I feel like I should apologize for Sakura again."
"Don't-" Hana placed her hand over hers "-Naruto will manage I promise; now let's just focus on this little guy."
"I just have to finish a wedding order and I'll be done. Meet you at your place?"
"Sounds good." Hana took the box and smiled down at them "Let's go get you checked up.
…
Iruka was currently in his apartment, packing for tomorrow' trip to the Land of Demons; it had been a trip they had been planning for about a week.
After what he had found in the Hokage office; Kakashi, Gai and he had been filing mission reports when Iruka come across Kanji' file; the Rogue Inuzuka of the village. Who was apparently coming back?
"Kanji' coming back?" he put the file down because he was now thinking of Hana and Kiba. He knew of Kanji but the reason behind his sudden leave…no one knew. Well except the Hokage.
"It seems he's reached to Lord Hokage." Kakashi told him as he looked over the file.
"And?" Iruka questioned him as he looked back at him "Seems there will be a trial."
"When?" Iruka asked.
"At the end of this month."
"That's a week from today." Iruka said.
"Maybe plan a youthful trip?" Gai suggested. Both Kakashi and Iruka looked at him "Gai, you're a genius!"
Gai cleared his throat "Well, thank you. I suggest the Land of Demons."
"That might just work-" Kakashi said "-plus, a new resort just opened last month." Iruka nodded "I don't feel right lying to her."
The door opened "Iruka-" they bowed "Lord Hokage."
"I suggest you make reservations soon Iruka."
"I know it's not my business but-" Sarutobi put a hand up "Hana and Kiba will be better off not knowing for the moment."
Iruka knew Tsume would go ballistic. He could only imagine Hana and Kiba.
Kakashi put a hand on his shoulder "You can also take Naruto-" Iruka nodded "Okay." Sarutobi grabbed the file and looked at Iruka "Stay at least two weeks."
"Lord Hokage, with all due respect-"
"I will take care of the expenses. Kanji' trial isn't going to be an easy one." Iruka clenched his fist.
"Well you better start packing my friend." Gai patted his back "This will be a youthful trip."
…
"You okay?" Hana asked Iruka.
"I'm fine." He told her as he closed the suitcase, he kissed her temple "You ready?" she nodded "I am. And Naruto is beyond excited too, I saw him telling Kyuubi." Iruka smiled.
Before he could say anything else her phone rang "Hello?" It was Ino "Sure, I'll be there shortly."
"Something wrong?"
"I don't know, she asked me to meet her at the shop."
"Want me to go with you?"
"No, I'll be fine. I still have to stop by the house either way."
"Okay, well we leave at 6am tomorrow."
"6am!" Naruto yelled "Why so early? Why not leave like…noon? Or today or something." He said as he walked to his room.
"We have to drive to the Village Hidden in the Clouds, that's a 2 hour drive. Our boat leave at 930 so-"
"I mean I'm just saying." Naruto said as he left his room to finish packing. Iruka shook his head.
"I'll be back soon."
…
Iruka was now making lunch when he got a call from Kakashi "Hello?"
"Code Red Iruka. Kanji is in the village and it seems that he has made contact with Kiba."
"What?" Iruka said "Sarutobi just headed towards the Inuzuka household. They are starting the trial."
"Shit. I have to go. Thanks Kakashi."
…
Hana parked in the street and saw Kiba pacing back and forth in the drive way; he looked furious. She hadn't seen Kiba like this in a while and when she did he had been out of it lately and of course she hasn't seen him lately to ask him what was wrong.
He was either out with Hinata or with Tamaki, who by the way she hadn't met. Or she was with Iruka and or working and or working out and sometimes she did all three. So for the last week she'd been staying at his place.
Today would be the first day back to the house, which it was full of dogs barking or her mother yelling or both. Hana grabbed the box and walked over towards Kiba.
"What's wrong?" Kiba' looked up "Hana? Where in the hell have you been?"
"Excuse me?" she couldn't help but question with a growl at his hostile comment "I don't think I have to explain myself to you."
Kiba furrowed his brows "You don't know?"
"Know what?"
"Dad's back in the village-" he let it sink in "-he just arrived this morning."
"What?" Kiba managed to grab the box of whatever it was Hana was holding as it slowly slid off her fingers.
"Whoa-" Kiba grabbed the box and looked inside "It's a cat."
"Raccoon-" she corrected him. Hana jaw clenched "That man is inside and mom didn't tell me!"
"She didn't tell me either. He called me; this is why I was out of it. Mom doesn't want us to see him or talk to him." Kiba looked at her and towards the house "-and she's making sure we don't-" wolves are surrounding the house.
"Are you kidding me?"
"It's the clans' wolves." Hana looked at him "The pack (clan) are inside." Kiba sounded distraught. They were going to have a trial and that means the Hokage would be arriving shortly.
Hana knew that is was particularly hard on him because he had left when he was just 13. Kiba never knew the reason why he had left; all his mother told both of them was he left because he couldn't handle her attitude. At that time it made sense but now Kiba being 23 he wanted to the real reason.
"I can't believe he's back!" she was 16 when he had last seen him and her mother didn't want to talk about it, even now.
"Never mention him" was what she always said.
Kiba knew they had no saying but they didn't have to be here either "What's with the cat?" he tried to change the subject.
"It's a raccoon, Kiba!" Hana smiled sadly as he gave the box back to her "We don't have to be here either Hana. The trial can take days."
Hana leaned against her car "You down for a trip?"
"Where?" Kiba asked with a raised eyebrow "Naruto, Iruka and I are heading to the Land of Demons. We were going tomorrow night but he'll understand if we leave tonight. I have to check on this little guy first."
"I-" Kiba knew Hana meant well but "-I already promised Tamaki a trip to The Great Naruto Bridge."
"You sure you'll be there and not here?"
"Yes." He had no choice, the Hokage made the arrangements. So they would also be leaving tomorrow morning.
"Come on; help me with him."
Kiba got in Hana' Red BMWm4 and held on to the box as Hana made her way towards their vet office a few blocks down, when she got a call from Iruka "Hey?"
"Where are you?" he asked.
"Heading towards our vet office-" there was a pause"-my father is back in the village."
There was a pause on his end too "I know-"
"You knew?" Hana questioned "And you didn't tell me?"
"I didn't tell you because I didn't want you to freak out-"
"Freak out?" Kiba took the phone from her "Come and take care of your women." Then he hung up.
"Kiba!"
"Don't get mad at him for dad showing up. If he knew and didn't tell you, he wanted to protect you. I was the one that told you dad is back; if you're going to get mad, get mad at me."
Hana sighed and bit her bottom lip "I'm sorry." She said as she stopped in front of the building.
"Look, Hana-" Kiba looked at her "-whatever happens-" he held her hand "-you have me and Iruka."
"Thanks." She smiled.
Iruka parked behind Hana' Red BMW M4 and got out.
"Hana-" Iruka looked at her "-I'm sorry."
"No-" she handed Kiba the box again.
"Seriously, where in the hell did you get this raccoon from?" he said as the little guy tried to get out of the box.
Hana lounged herself at him "Did I ever tell you how much I love you?" Iruka hugged her "Once or twice." He teased.
Her phone rang "Hello? Oh hey Ino. Sorry, I had my stuff in the vet building so-" Iruka gave her a squeeze and "Okay, I'll see you soon."
Ino smiled as the little raccoon who was hugging her arm but his ears perked up as Hana took out some fruit from the fridge.
"He's fine, a bit malnourished but he'll gain weight soon."
"That's good to hear." She smiled as she saw the raccoon reach for the grapes
"So what are you going to name him?"
"Meeko-"
"Meeko-" the little raccoon did a little chitter "-It has a nice ring to it and I think he likes it." Iruka looked at the girls who were just talking and petting the little raccoon and back at Kiba.
"How are you holding up Kiba?"
"I've been better-" Kiba was also feeling sad because Akamaru wasn't with him. He was currently locked up with Ni, Ichi and San in the kennel in the back. It was all due to the trial.
Kiba sigh "I just-" he looked at Iruka "-why can't we be at the trial?" he yelled as he stood up. Hana and Ino looked over "Kiba?"
"No! I just can't sit here and do nothing! I need answers-" he shook his head "NO, I will get answers!" and with that he ran out the door.
"Kiba!" Both Iruka and Hana yelled.
"Uhh, oh…okay? I…I guess I stay here?" Ino said confused as she held on to the raccoon. What was going on? Who was she going to lock up the office?
…
Hinata had been in her room when she got a call from Kin; with a smile on her face she answered "Hi, Kin."
Originally she had left Itachi on purpose with Kin for a reason. Guess it worked because as she and Naruto were getting gelato she had gotten a text from Itachi asking for her help to set up a room; a room she would like. She likes purple was one of the other messages.
"I love the room."
"I'm glad. It was fun picking the stuff and decorating."
"I don't know how to thank you. I can pay you for the expenses."
"Don't be silly, how about you come over and we have a movie night and sleepover?"
"That sounds amazing actually." Kin didn't know a lot of people, since she's only been here 3 months and she's been back and from the sounds back to here so she hasn't had a lot of time to socialize. Meeting Hinata 2 months ago was perfect.
It was because of Hinata that she began to volunteer in the retirement home.
"My place at 8?"
"I'll bring the snacks and the liquor-" then she closed her eyes "-sorry, I forgot."
"It's fine-" she laughed "-you're more than welcome to bring liquor and Okami and Pancake too."
"Of course. Just send me your address."
"Okay. Well I'll be cleaning and running a few errands but let me know if you want to stop by sooner."
"Okay. I'll talk to you later."
Kin was sitting in bed and as she looked around she smiled; it all seemed too surreal. She felt her stomach drop as she heard the front door open and close. Oh god, he was home. She hid herself under her blankets and took a deep breath.
"Calm down. He's just a guy." She moved the covers away and got out of bed; undid her messy and redid it.
She took a deep breath once more as she opened the door but she lost her breath as she was faced to a rising and falling chest; a chest with a huge raven, the wings reached the top of his shoulders. It was glowing with sweat and rising and falling, rising and falling making the raven seems like it moving on its own.
"Good morning." His voice sounded husky and so tired.
She swallowed the lump in her throat "Good m-morning." Fuck, she stuttered. He smirked at that.
She tried to look away but every part of him was god-like and sweaty, don't forget sweaty and so fucking hot; sweaty and sexy. Did she already say sweaty? She could see other tattoos in his forearms and biceps. There had to be something special about the symbols he chose.
Itachi ran five miles, of course Yuji ran with him before they made their way back home. He unlocked the front door watched Yuji make his way towards the water bowl "Easy now, Yuji."
He needed to shower so he made his way towards the bathroom by Kin's room. Sure he could use the bathroom in the game room near his room but where was the fun in that?
He was about to open the bathroom door when the door to her room opened. God, lord oh mighty. This women was about to give him a heart attack.
She was wearing a slightly loose purple sleeveless tank top with a built in black bra black spandex shorts; that hugged her in all the right places; he couldn't help but notice her legs; legs that ran for miles but he couldn't help but look back up at her collar bone because she had ink.
A tattoo the size of his finger that said free in cursive along with three birds flying away; his gaze dropped to her chest because he could see more ink. What was it and how far did it go down?
"Good morning." He managed to say. She said it back only to stutter which made him smirk. Guess she was nervous. And he knew she was checking out the ink.
"I can get started on breakfast if you're hungry?" she tried to control her breathing and not turn any redder than she already was.
"Sounds good." He said as he went into the bathroom but not before she saw her back side to see another tattoo. He could clearly see it's a dreamcatcher; it began from her neck and the middle feather reached down to her shoulder blades. It was simple but beautiful….she was beyond beautiful.
She was now in the kitchen, preparing some pancakes along with some eggs and bacon; she figured he needed some protein after his run; when she felt a warm finger slightly trace the end on her dreamcatcher tattoo.
"I didn't know you had ink." His voice was low and husky. His touch sent goosebumps all over her body.
She looked over her shoulder; she could see his still wet hair, dripping into his handsome face. She tried to control her voice that would come out raspy and out of breath but "You never asked."
She could feel him trace the middle feather of the dreamcatcher, from the top of it to the very bottom of it.
"It's beautiful." She closed her eyes feeling his hot breath near her ear. Kin couldn't take it anymore. She turned around and was face to face with Itachi. His eye held lust, mischievous and mystery.
She didn't move. She saw his Adam apple move as he swallowed. She could see his eyes move from her eyes to her free tattoo on her left collar bone, "It was the second tattoo I got. The first time I felt free in a long time."
Itachi looked at her "I gave my life and soul to the wrong people, ended up being hurt." She commented.
It was true; at age 18 she had left home, by age 19 she was saved by at that time she thought was a good man; his name is Orochimaru…but that was a nightmare she didn't want to relive.
"You're safe here." he reassured her. No one was going to hurt her.
Was she though? Kin once again looked up at his onyx eyes and back at the beautiful raven tattoo but before anything could happen, two and a half dogs were now running towards the kitchen because of the bacon smell.
Before Itachi parted away he reached behind her, slightly touching her shoulder he reached for a piece of bacon "I'm sorry, I have to leave. Kakashi called."
"Oh-" his touch sent another set of chills all over her body "-that's fine." She smiled but she couldn't help but feel hurt. Not for him leaving, maybe him leaving but…for not being able to finish this conversation.
She said it was fine but he could see a bit of hurt in her eyes as she smiled.
"I'm sorry."
"It's fine. Go; Kakashi is waiting for you."
…
Itachi was now in the Hokage office with Kakashi, Yamato and Ibiki "How is rogue 398? (Tayuya)" Kakashi looked at Ibiki "She's a doll. Come up with new intel-" he looked at Itachi.
He walked past him and said "Seems Orochimaru has had someone in the village for a while now, all she's knows is that Orochimaru has people under the radar in each village."
"Do we have an idea of who it is?" Kakashi asked.
"I've looked into a few people but there are two who catch my attention. One of which have been staying in your place Uchiha." Itachi eyes couldn't help but turn red "You have any proof?"
Ibiki smirked as he walked back to the desk to grab a file "She's an interesting one." Itachi was about to say something but Kakashi beat him "Cut the crap Ibiki, why are we here?"
"Their names are Zaku Abumi and Kin Kinuta; she changed her name to Tsuchi 3 months back but she still visits the sound; to visit her older brother Dosu Kinuta. She just came back from her trip 3 weeks ago."
Kakashi could only think back to his mission hearing Kin' name; he was too familiar with her.
Kakashi remember the mission…
(Recap from chapter 11)
"The hideout he's currently according to Tayuya is near the border or the Sound and Fang village." Shikamaru said.
It was past 1am, they had left the truck in the border of the Valley of the End, which was the border between Konaha and Sound.
Because they were going on foot, with their ANBU clothing's which consists of black clothing, a grey flak jacket, metal arm guards and gloves, boots that had spikes for travelling into mountainous regions.
Three pouches on their back-waist; they put on their cloaks just in case the weather if it changed dramatically.
"Ready?" Kakashi asked through the speaker under the mask and both Yamato and Shikamaru nodded.
They had arrived shortly after 2am. It was quiet. They had been staking out the place for about 45 minutes when a car arrived.
"Car approaching, I repeat car approaching; license plate number Zulu, Uniform, Kilo, Oscar 169" Kakashi said over the walking piece. Each were about 200 feet from the hideout which was a big metal door.
"No! I'm out! I can't do this anymore!" it was a female, with long hair.
"You can't quit on me now! Lord Orochimaru needs this. Let's not forget what he's done for us?"
"Us?" the female sound upset "He's done nothing but-"
"Enough! I'm not going to have you bad mouth Lord Orochimaru!" it was too dark to see their faces but he would defiantly recognize his voice.
"Stand down." Kakashi said "Do not approach-"
"Are you just going to leave me here?"
"You need to learn your priorities. He'll pay you a visit today so make sure you listen." The male got into the car and drove off, leaving the female alone in from of hideout.
"If Orochimaru is coming, this is our chance to get him." Yamato said. Kakashi couldn't help but think that something about this was off.
Who was she? How is she affiliated with Orochimaru? And was Orochimaru really coming?
After about two hours they saw the girl come out "A blackout KIA is approaching but it has no license plate." Shikamaru commented.
They stayed in place until the car stopped. If it was Orochimaru he wouldn't be alone but then again, it was a KIA so he had 3 guards; 4 if you counted the girl.
The driver's side opened "Hello Kin-" the voice was calm yet menacing.
"Kabuto." Her voice held dislike for him.
"Kabuto Yakushi-" Yamato said "-not much on him. He was an orphan here in village."
"Yakushi? Why does that name sound so familiar?" Shikamaru said. He knew he heard Sai say the name a few times.
"He took Nonō' last name; she was the nun in the orphanage; Kabuto' caretaker." Kakashi said "He was in the Black ops; the one Danzo organized to get Intel on other villages. Nonō was killied by Kabuto a few years by him during a mission. It was an accident he never forgave himself for."
"So Kabuto isn't from Konoha?"
"From what Nonō told me, she had found him in a village that had been destroyed-"
"What village?" Shikamaru asked.
"She never said." Kakashi commented "He didn't know who he was. He had lost his memory so she brought him here."
"So you see Lord Orochimaru couldn't make it." Whatever the reason was, Orochimaru wasn't here. Their mission was a fail but if they were to capture Kabuto.
"Kabuto won't talk, not even Ibiki would break him." Yamato said almost knowing what Shikamaru was thinking.
"Lord Orochimaru and I will be busy for a while; you know what to do already." She didn't say anything and Kabuto smiled "What? Did your little boyfriend leave you here alone? Want a ride? I'm sure you're use to that."
Kin swung but he dodged that "You know how to contact me if you change your mind."
"Fuck off Kabuto." She said as she opened the metal door and got inside. Kabuto pushed his glasses up and got back inside the car and drove away.
"Car has left the premises." Shikamaru said as he used the binoculars to see it vanish into the distance.
Kakashi made his move. He made his way down the hill and he got the okay from Yamato as Kakashi made his way over to the front door.
"No cameras?"
"They'll leave his nest soon." Kakashi knocked and waited as the door made a noise as it opened.
"What the fuck do you need Kabu-" Kakashi pushed her in and slammed her against the wall; he tried to fold her arms in but elbowed him. He stepped back and she punched him.
"Who the hell are you?" she said as she swung again. Kakashi dodged it.
"Doesn't matter right now." he told her; he saw bruises on her shoulders and rib cage; since she was wearing a sports bra and a pair of black leggings.
"I know you work for Orochimaru." Kin had caught him off guard and kicked him, sending him across the small hallway.
"You know you don't have to do this anymore." Kakashi said as he now had a knife on his throat.
"You don't know what you're talking about."
"I know what Orochimaru is capable of." Kakashi stated "I know you want out of this hellhole and you've done things to survive-"
"Shut up!" her hand was shaking "I can help you." Kakashi said she he used his legs to knock her down.
He kicked the knife away and looked down at her "You just have to accept the help."
Kin looked at the silver haired man "You're Kakashi, Kakashi Hatake" it wasn't a question, he smiled under the mask.
"So you've heard about me." he is a man known in a lot of villages, mostly because of the rare Sharingan he has on left eye and he is known to be a well-known Shinobi across the lands.
Kin heard he's good but was he good enough to accept his help, "He'll find me-"
"He will find you-" he knew Orochimaru would "-but I won't let him hurt you."
…
That was 2 months ago. Kakashi had kept tabs on her and once she had settled in; Zaku came into the picture. Zaku was on his hit list. He did dirty work for Orochimaru, he knew that for sure.
After everything he's done to Kin, he wished he could catch Zaku on some stupid shit just to make Ibiki question him but that boy isn't as dumb as he looked.
"Her record is mostly vandalizing but-" he chuckled but before he could say anything Kakashi interrupted him and said "Enough. I thought this would be regarding Tayuya."
"Rogue 398 said everything she knew, I made sure of that."
"Then what are we doing here?" Itachi asked his eyes still red with anger.
"I need you both to keep things running here while I'm gone. Yamato I need you keep an eye on this Zaku punk, he's up to something. I can feel it."
"You're going somewhere?" Yamato asked.
"Suna-" Ibiki' voice held pleasure "-seems they caught ne of Orochimaru' henchman."
"Who?" Itachi asked.
…
Kin had finished breakfast; alone and was now washing the dishes "I shouldn't be mad-" she closed the faucet and dried the last plate "-so why am I upset about him leaving?" she said out loud.
Itachi had left almost two hours ago leaving her alone with her dogs who were sleeping. She knew Itachi was a busy Shinobi but…was it selfish of her to want him to herself for at least an hour. She wasn't going to pout like this.
It was barely 12 "What to do?" she asked "I guess I can go for a run-" she shrugged "Pancake won't be able to keep up though." She took out her phone and called the other person she met through Hinata.
"Hey Lee-"
With Lee taking Pancake she was able to go on a run with Okami. Needless to say Lee was more than happy to watch over the small fluff of a dog. She was sure Lee would be able to keep up with her energy.
"I will gladly watch over Cupcake." She corrected him with a laugh "Her name is Pancake."
"Right, enjoy your youthful run!" with that being said she made her way back to Itachi place and changed into a grey sports bra, she had kept the black spandex shorts.
After stretching for a few minutes she looked at Okami and smiled "Ready?" he wagged his tail.
If there was something that could relax her it was running. Feeling free and in control of where she went.
She had stopped by the Yamanaka flower to shop to ask for water for Okami, Ino was nice; a bit on the blunt side when a rude customor had said that she didn't know what she was doing and asked to see the manager.
She stood up and said "Well I am the manager, the owner and the person to tell you to leave and good luck finding 150 tulips on a week notice!" Kin smiled and thanked her again for the water "Anytime doll."
"Thanks." Kin made her way outside where Okami was waiting.
Kin began to run, making her way back to the house; to Itachi' house when Okami began to bark at something or someone "Okami-" she began to sprint after him "Okami!" he turned on the stop sign.
She was so caught up with catching him to him that she hadn't noticed a small ditch and fell, she felt pain on her right ankle but she got up and ran after him. Okami had found Lee with Pancake. So that's why he ran, he had smelled her.
"How was the run Kin?" Lee smiled seeing her run towards him "It was fine-" then she felt a sharp pain on her ankle once more and fell to the floor "Kin are you okay?"
"I think I sprained my ankle, I fell but-" Lee bent down at looked at it "It looks pretty swollen." He told her "Shit!" she swore under her breath.
"It's okay Kin" Lee reassured her "I can take you to the house."
She couldn't risk Itachi being there "Can you take me to Hinata' place?" she asked "Of course, that' is not far away, a block or two. Ready?" he asked as he began to carry her bridal style. Lee was strong. She could feel his body; since she was being carried by him "Thanks Lee-" she said.
"It is not a problem."
Hinata had a lot going on now that she looked at the calendar in living room. Hanabi had taken it out of her room because she knew she would be stressing the first month regarding birthdays and other days she had noted in the calendar.
It was almost the end of May and looking at June' month she had noticed Itachi birthday was coming up on the 9, that was 10 days from today! She also had Kurenai birthday on the 11th.
She needs to do something for Itachi. She would send a card to Kurenai because she knew Asuma would be doing something for her. So she began looking for ideas and sending texts telling people about the date.
She got a few 'I'm down' and a few 'Let me know what I can help with' when she heard the doorbell ring
"This is going to be fun." She smiled "Oh my goodness, Kin are you alright? What happened."
"I'm fine-" Lee shook her head "She has sprained her ankle-" Kin closed her eyes "I'm trying not to worry her Lee!" she growled "Oh-" Lee smiled "-Kin did not sprain her ankle."
"A little late Lee-" Kin told him as they walked in. Lee put her on the lover seat and began to roll up a blanket to put it under her foot.
"I'll get some ice." Hinata came back with two ice packs, a bottle of water and pain relievers. Lee put some pillows on her back.
"How did this happen?" she asked as she handed them to her.
She smiled as she took the things from her "Thanks. I was running after Okami-" she let out a breath "-I didn't want him to get hit or anything. It's doesn't really hurt, I promise."
"Well I'll call Lady Tsunade to check it out. Does Itachi-" she didn't even finish when Kin said "No-" Hinata looked at her "I mean he's not home right now, he went to a meeting or something."
Lee' phone rang "Hello?" he nodded "Roger, I will be there in 5." He hung up "I must leave but please Kin, let me know how you are doing."
"I will, thanks Lee." Hinata waited until Lee left to ask Kin "Do you not want me to call Itachi?"
Kin nodded "I just-" how would she explain this to Hinata?
"You know you can talk to me, right Kin."
"I do know that Hinata-" she smiled "Thank you." she looked at her and with a small blush she told her what had happen between them this morning. How he leaving made her all upset and she didn't know why and that's why she was upset.
"Stupid right?" she tried to laugh it off.
"No it's not stupid Kin. Maybe you wanted something to happen?" Hinata knew what Kin was going through. Her situation might be the same but the feeling; she knew about that.
"I just, I don't want to-"
"Itachi is a good man, Kin."
"I know that." she really did "He offered me his home-"
"Do you like him?"
"I do. Like you said, he's a good man." Hinata smiled "Do you have feelings for him?"
"No-" she quickly responded.
"It's okay if you do-"
"I shouldn't-"
"But you do?"
"I don't even know him."
"You should-" Kin looked at her questionably "-get to know him I mean. He's a true gentleman." Kin could see Hinata really loved him as she smiled just talking about him "He'll always be there for you but if he can't at the moment, he'll make it up to you."
Kin kept turning around the small ring she had on her left pinky "I just, if got to know me. I mean the real me." Hinata could see her eyes slowly drown in liquid "-he wouldn't be so nice to me."
"He doesn't judge. He's been through a lot too. It's the person he is now that truly matters."
Hinata handed her some tissue "Thanks-" Kin wiped the tears that decided to escape.
"He's worth trying to get to know, Kin. I promise." Hinata grabbed her phone from the table and dial
"Wh-who are you calling?"
"Tsunade-" she smiled at her sudden stutter.
"Hi, Tsunade?" her voice was mostly questionable "Master Jiraya?"
Hinata laughed "Oh okay, well when she's done do you think you can ask her to come to the house, my friend has a sprained ankle-" she stopped as she heard Tsunade in the back.
"I'm in the shower! Get out!" Hinata could only imagine what was going on "Hinata needs you, she has a sprained ankle!"
"No, no, it's not me-" they couldn't hear her.
"What!?" Tsunade yelled "Give me the phone."
"I'm on my way! Call Itachi-" she hung up. Kin looked at her "What happened?" Kin gave her a worried look "I'll get some snacks-"
"Why?" Kin asked.
"A few unexpected people will be coming." She smiled. Tsunade had yelled, meaning Naruto now knew…
The door opened "Hinata!" it was Naruto "In the kitchen-" she said "What are you doing in the kitchen?"
Naruto ran over and saw her standing "You shouldn't be walking-"
"I'm not the one with a sprained ankle Naruto. Master Jiraya heard me wrong."
"Oh, thank god-" he heard someone clear their throat "I'm over here."
"Kin!" Naruto walked over towards her "I'm sorry-" he felt bad, he hadn't even noticed her.
"It's fine." She teased him.
"Hinata-" in came Tsunade, Jiraya and Itachi.
"You old bat! It's Kin with a sprained ankle!" Naruto yelled at him.
"Kin?" Itachi thought as he looked towards Naruto "Kin-" he saw her on the couch, with some ice packs on her ankle.
"Lee brought her here-" Naruto said "He's nice, weird at times but nice nevertheless."
Itachi looked at her and frowned "I kind of bumped into him." she teased. His eyes looked down, he couldn't help but feel hurt "Why didn't you call to tell me?"
"I knew you were busy, I didn't want to bother you." she said honestly. That was part of it, the other part was that just being around him brought so many questions, so many thoughts, feelings she never thought she' feel again but these were different.
"Okay, let's look at that ankle." Tsunade with still wet hair said. She looked back at Jiraya "I'll deal with you later-" she looked at Naruto "You too."
"What? What did I do?" he asked "-um, well it was nice seeing you ladies. Itachi. if you excuse me, I-" Naruto hugged Hinata and winked at Kin "Get better, I need to save myself."
And with that being said Naruto ran out the door, a red fox right behind him "What he said." Jiraya said making an escape. The door closed and Tsunade shook her head.
"What happened-" Tsunade asked; she could feel Itachi eyes on her; all of her. "I was out running."
"It's a bit swollen but it'll go down. I say don't put any pressure; it looks like a grade one sprained ankle. It just means that there is a slight stretching to the ligaments. There'll be slight pain, swelling, joint stiffness but try not to walk on it as much, or not at all."
"That's good." Hinata smiled at her "I mean at least it's not broken. I have some bandages in the bathroom upstairs." Hinata gave her a sign to go with her; leaving Kin alone with Itachi.
Kin looked up at him "I would have come for you."
"I know that-" she did but again; it's Itachi who makes her feel like this. Why?
Itachi had rushed over when Tsunade called him about Hinata having a sprained ankle. Of course now he knew that there wasn't true. It was Kin with the sprained ankle. He couldn't help but think that she didn't call him because of this morning.
"I just didn't want to bother you."
"You don't. I would have dropped everything to come and get you." he was telling her the truth. The only reason Morino had called him was because it involved Sasuke.
She didn't say anything because she could hear Tsunade "I didn't even get to blow dry my hair. Okay I have the bandages."
She bandaged her ankle, Itachi sitting across from her.
"That should do it-" she stood up and smiled "Itachi you'll have to be her legs for a few days."
He nodded "Seriously, I'm fine." Tsunade poked her forehead as she tried to get up "Don't you dare. Itachi will be your nurse until you're better!"
Kin rubbed her forehead "That hurt." She raised an eyebrow at her "Now, if you excuse me I have to go and finish washing my hair."
"Hinata don't forget next week we're doing your ultra sound."
"How could I forget" She said smiling.
Kin waited until she heard the door closed and tried to get up, only for her to fall back but she felt two strong hands on her waist "What did Lady Tsunade just say?" Kin' breath went away as he whispered that in her ear.
Hinata smiled "Are we still up for tonight?" Kin asked, trying to ignore the goosebumps all over her body.
"It depends what your nurse says?"
"That's not funny." Kin said. All of a sudden she felt a bit better. I mean not her ankle but you know…
"I'll text you." Hinata nodded "Okay."
Itachi didn't think twice as he picked her up; bride style. Hinata saw her face turn red as she opened the door. The yawning dogs followed behind.
Itachi had Kin open the door and she slid into the seat, he closed the door and opened the back door for Okami to get in; but Pancake on the other hand, needed a hand. Once they were in he made his way towards the driver's seat.
…
(From Chapter 12)
It had been a few days that he had spoken to Hiro (Dan) and a few days since Orochimaru' been gone.
"You need to work on controlling your little emotions. Because if you can't you'll hurt the ones you love or Orochimaru will do that for you! Trust me, I know."
Sasuke knew he'd have to shut down his emotions completely; it should be easy for him because he's done it before. But ever since he met Hinata… he mentally smacked himself. He couldn't keep thinking of her.
"I don't love Hinata. I don't love Hinata. I don't love Hinata." he kept repeating those words in his mind. His eyes closed he heard the door open Keiji growled like he's never growled before which only meant the snake was back.
"Back so soon?"
"Did you behave?" Sasuke didn't have to worry about Orochimaru approaching him Keiji wouldn't allow that he heard him chuckle "-I have sssomthing for you." Sasuke didn't move, didn't open his eyes honestly he didn't care what it was.
He felt something hit on the bed and then the sound of the door closing. He waited five minutes before he opened his eyes to see a yellow envelope next to him.
Did he really want to know what was inside? If he opened it and it were pictures of Hinata he would probably want to kill Orochimaru.
He took a breath and grabbed the envelope and put it in the drawer next to him. He wasn't going to fall for Orochimaru' little test. He rolled to his side and began to erase Hinata from his heart.
The envelope that Orochimaru had given him was still the drawer. By now his emotions were locked up. Unlike before he did kill the snakes 'experiments' the only one who didn't fear him was Keiji. He did keep him locked up for this kind of situations. Today was no exception.
Experiment after experiment; he set his Kusanagi sword; Katana down and sat on the bed. Keiji set his head on Sasuke lap and whined.
"Hey-" his voice still held emotion as talked to his beloved Doberman. But Orochimaru' voice still ran in his head
(Chapter 6) "That mutt ssstill tiesss you to Konoha but sssooner or later the tiesss with Konoha will have to be broken by you" a cold chill ran down his spine. He looked at Keiji and couldn't help but feel like he should have left him back at Konoha.
He knew Keiji needed to go back to Konoha; that's his only safe place now. Keiji whined again only this time he nudged him "Okay, but just for an hour."
They always played fetch after. They reached the open field and he began throwing the ball.
"Having fun with your mutt?" Dan or Hiro as he's known here said.
"What do you want?" he asked him as Keiji brought back the ball only to give it to Hiro.
"Traitor." Sasuke told Keiji. Hiro smiled as he threw it.
"Orochimaru is looking for us."
"You forgot the Lord part-"
"Screw you-" he said.
"Are we going somewhere?" Sasuke asked him.
"To recover one of Orochimaru henchman."
"Seriously? Who's the idiot that got caught?"
"Oh he was meant to get caught-"
"What? Then why-?" then he put the pieces together "-are we the show?"
"Bingo." Sasuke let out a huff "Come on Keiji-" Sasuke looked at Hiro"-when do we leave?"
Right now."
Guess sleep what out of the question "Right."
Sasuke unlocked his black matte Lamborghini Huracan and Hiro unlocked his black matte Maserati Granturismo, they had a phone piece "Ready?" Hiro asked.
"Let's go" Sasuke said as he turned on the car and put it in drive. The drive was quiet until he asked
"Who is this rat that was caught?"
"His name is Dosu-" Hiro said "-seems he's been getting Intel for Orochimaru for a while now, along with two others. Well one now."
"What happen to the other one? Did he get killed or something?"
"She never really worked for Orochimaru."
"Who does she work for?"
"Me. Orochimaru only used her at nights-" Sasuke could hear anger in his voice "-then one night when she refused to satisfy him. He beat her; he beat her so bad she almost didn't make it-"
Like he was reliving that night he said "-he left her to die. After she recovered; Zaku had left her in one of the hideouts a few miles away from here. Kabuto stopped by to simply mock her but after he left Kakashi gave her a visit. Kakashi got through her."
"Kakashi, huh?"
"He kept tabs one her and never gave up on her. I told her to run for it-"
"Did she?"
"She did. She lives in Konoha now but-"
"Then what?"
"Zaku decided to move in. That little prick; apparently he wants to know her loyalty to the snake. "
"Zaku?" Sasuke asked.
"Zaku; he's the one that provides Orochimaru the pictures you know." Sasuke tighten the grin on the steering wheel "Zaku" he repeated his name; he would have to pay him a visit one of these days.
The night had soon taken over and both of them were in an underground room. Orochimaru had a few in each village. The good thing about these was no cameras. He didn't want a signal to be found.
"So how are we doing this?" Sasuke asked as he let Keiji go to the bathroom. Once he was done they headed inside. Hiro took a map out.
"They are bringing in Morino and from what I can remember, he one tough son of a bitch. Dosu would crack like a twig. Dosu is just bait so we need to grab him before he is given to Morino."
He pointed at the rock wall that surrounded the Sand village "He's being held here. There are prisons around the village. He'll be transferred-" he moved his finger towards the center of the map "-here, to the building under the Kazekage tower in a few hours. They like doing it under the cover of the night."
Sasuke just listened "Why would they have to transfer him?"
"They caught him midday and after the attack, they didn't want to make a big commotion. You know stir the chaos pot."
"How did he get caught exactly?"
"He was doing 'dirty' work-" he said it with bunny ears "-Baki was the one that found him and took him in. They called Morino after they caught him."
"How do you know all of this?" Sasuke looked at the man in front of him as he saw him smirk up at him and he stood up straight "Orochimaru isn't the only with people."
He's been gathering people who no longer want to be affiliated with Orochimaru, people who lived through the nightmare and live to tell the tale. Kin was his resent one.
The first one he saved; her name is Karin. Karin Uzumaki she's living in Suna; keeping an eye out. She was there when the attack accrued a few months back. She witnessed all the destruction, all the loss.
"What are their names?" Sasuke knew Hiro; or Dan was smart but this…this was new to him. For him to risk his own undercover work to help people and complete a mission.
"Wouldn't you like to know?" he looked back at the map "Morino is about an hour away-" he rolled the map up "We need to go now." Sasuke frowned "Keiji can come but take off the collar."
He respected Dan a little more now that he called Keiji by his name and not 'mutt'. Sasuke looked down to see Keiji next to his feet.
They had changed into black camouflaged, Dan put on his fox mask and looked at him "Let's go."
Sasuke was the show, so all that he did was nod. They ran, ran past the dark forest. They stopped but seeing it was just a deer they kept going.
"We're almost there." Hiro said "-up ahead-" he said. They stopped "Two SUV are approaching, about a mile down-" He took out his night binoculars and said "The first SUV has Morino and shit-" he cursed "They have Jiraya-"
"Master Jiraya? What about the second one?" Dan didn't answer which made him furrow his eyebrows, he took the binoculars from him "Who is in the second SUV?" Hiro looked at him "Your brother and Hinata"
Sasuke' face held anger "Were you aware of this and didn't tell me?" Dan shook his head "They were surprises. We need to do something but we have to get Dosu back-" Sasuke looked at the SUV's approaching.
Like he said in the first one was, Morino and Jiraya; there was someone else but he could see who. The second truck he recognized; it was Itachi' red Denali truck. Itachi was driving and next to him was Hinata.
She was smiling; god she looked beautiful. She was holding onto her belly. He could see Ai; Keiji sister head poking in between them, so he could only imagine the rest were in the back. Someone else was with them too. Who? So there are two unknown people. It could be anyone from the village.
"They were a surprise I wasn't aware of." He needed to rethink this and fast.
"Okay, change of plans-" he needed her "-this is going to be more than just a show."
They needed to be safe; he needed a distraction.
"Keiji-" Sasuke said as he looked at his dog "What about your dog?"
"He'll be the distraction." Sasuke knew that Keiji would be better off in Konoha and this was it. He knew Keiji missed his family. He knew his father would catch his scent. He just hoped Itachi would stop the truck and stay behind.
"If I can get him to leave; the other dogs would catch his scent-" Dan nodded "Are you willing to let your dog go?"
"He's safer in Konoha anyways."
"Okay, this is what we'll do-"
…
Okay, okay. That's enough for right now. R&R, hope you like the chapter.