Dedicated to netamashii who's done so much art for this story it's practically a light novel.

Naruto was in the locker room after gym class, searching through his belongings to find the slip he needed Gai to sign since he'd be missing two days next week. When he finally found it stuffed between the pages of his biology book, he slammed the locker shut and turned around, nearly knocking into someone. He'd thought he was alone.

Sasuke stood there, glaring at him. "Do you mind watching where you're going?"

Naruto glared back, eyeing him as he walked over to his locker and started putting in the combination. "Why are you still here? Didn't you leave 10 minutes ago?"

"Not that I need your permission to be here," Sasuke replied coldly, "But I forgot something."

"You forgot something?" Naruto smirked. "And here I thought you were perfect."

Sasuke glanced over his shoulder at him. "You seemed to think so a month ago."

Well, that certainly caused his anger-fueled cockiness to shrivel up and die. He swallowed, the sting of Sasuke's words so hurtful, he had to fight off potential tears. Regardless, nothing changed in Sasuke's indifferent expression. Fucking frigid bastard.

"If you were planning on giving someone that love note," said Sasuke. "You might want to stop crumpling it in your hand."

"Huh?" Naruto glanced at the slip of paper. "God dammit."

He tried straightening it, but now it looked like he'd wadded it into a ball. That would suck if he had to get a new slip after he'd already received signatures from the teachers in his first four periods. Kakashi was next, unfortunately, so that was going to be a pain in the ass. Not to mention he'd be late to class again unless Gai wrote him a pass.

"What is that anyway?" Sasuke asked, shutting his locker door.

"Like you care."

"Fine." Sasuke brushed past him, knocking hard into his shoulder.

Naruto stood his ground, but didn't do much other than watch him walk away, his chest so tight he had to press his hand over his heart to make sure it was in one piece and still beating. He couldn't figure out how things could change so drastically between them in such a short amount of time. It might've been less terrible if Sasuke hadn't completely ignored him after that day, not only pretending as if nothing had happened, but acting as if Naruto didn't exist. For a week, he'd thought Sasuke would apologize, but it never happened. It was fine if Sasuke didn't want to be with him or didn't share his feelings, but he didn't have to be so cruel with his words. They were supposed to be friends. Although, apparently not anymore. Every interaction they had at school, which was mostly forced or accidental, made him want to punch his fist through a wall. It was extremely frustrating to not understand what Sasuke was thinking, especially when they'd been so close up until then. At least Naruto could be honest and say his feelings hadn't simply disappeared because he got rejected. They were there, underneath all of that angst. So, watching Sasuke walk away… it was crushing.

"Naruto! What are you still doing here?" Gai appeared from the other doorway that led to the gym, a towel hung about his neck. "Shouldn't you be in Kakashi's class by now?"

"Uh." Naruto rubbed the back of his head. "I, um. Need you to sign this." He handed the wrinkled piece of paper to the gym teacher.

"What's this?" Gai held it close to his face, squinting at the writing. "A vacation request slip? I see. Going somewhere for the holidays? How very exciting!"

"Sort of. My dad and I are heading to Chicago for some… personal reasons."

"Of course, of course. Well, we'll miss you, but I look forward to seeing you next semester. I hope with more energy. You've seemed a little down lately."

"I have?" He asked.

"Yes. I told Sasuke the same the other day! Maybe it's that, what do they call it? Seasonal Affective Disorder. Try eating more fruit. Vitamin C will help."

"I'll be sure to try that," he said. "Since I'm kinda runnin' late, would you, um, also mind writin' me a note for Kakashi's class? He'll kill me if I show up later than him."

"I suppose, in the spirit of the holiday season, I could do that." He signed Naruto's slip, and, going into his office, scribbled off a note that excused him from being late.

"Thank you, sir." Naruto tried to muster up a smile. "I'll be sure to think about what you said. Drink more… orange juice and stuff."

"You know, did I ever tell you about how Kakashi and I used to be rivals?"

"Well, a couple of times - "

"We had our fights," said Gai, rubbing his chin. "But, it never got in the way of our friendship." He slapped Naruto on the back. "If you and Sasuke are having a fight, sometimes it's best to communicate clearly and effectively. I'm sure your feelings will get through to each other."

"Right. I'm gonna, uh, go now… but… yeah. I'll… keep that in mind."

"Okay! Send Kakashi my regards," shouted Gai, as Naruto hurried out of the locker room to his next class. "Tell him he owes me drinks from the other night's free throw contest!"

Sasuke was at his desk, only late by a few minutes, when Kakashi entered the classroom with what appeared to be an empty plastic pudding cup. The older man tossed it in the garbage bin, picked up his attendance pad, and took one look around the room.

"Where's Naruto?" He asked, directing the question toward everyone.

Some of the students glanced around at each other.

"He was in gym last period," said a boy.

"Then where is he now?" Kakashi's eyes strayed to the other side of the room. "Sasuke? You have gym fifth period, don't you?"

Everyone turned and stared at him as if he were some kind of Naruto whisperer.

"He was… speaking to Gai last I saw him," he replied.

"I hope it wasn't about the money I owe him." Kakashi scratched at his stubbled chin. "If you say you saw him, I'll give him the benefit of the doubt and hold off taking attendance for 10 minutes. If I have to spend one more afternoon with him, it's going to get in the way of my romantic life."

"What romantic life?" Sasuke asked. He wouldn't have engaged except he was already feeling irritated by his run-in with Naruto and, now, having everyone think he was Naruto's keeper.

"That's my point. I don't have one because I have to babysit students who're old enough to know better."

"If you put it that way," he replied calmly. "You also arrived late to class. I thought adults were supposed to have a better sense of responsibility?"

"I'm surprised you're defending him, Sasuke. Although, at least you earn points for loyalty."

"Like I care what that idiot's - "

Naruto suddenly walked in, so he didn't finish his sentence. He was glaring at Sasuke after having caught the tail-end of what he'd been saying.

"Figures you'd talk about me while I'm not around," Naruto remarked.

"Interesting you hear the word 'idiot' and assume it's about you," he replied, ignoring some of the snickers from other students.

"Naruto," said Kakashi. "You're late. Now if you're done bickering with the ex-wife, can you please take your seat. Preferably on the opposite side of the room. Before you jump down Sasuke's throat, he let me know where you were, so I haven't taken attendance."

"Oh?" Naruto asked as he took his seat. "That's surprising."

"I thought so, as well," Kakashi agreed.

"I have a message from Gai, though." Naruto tipped back his chair. "He says you owe him for some basketball game and to pay up."

Their teacher shook his head. "Detention."

"What?" Naruto cried. "Why?"

"Just because I feel like it."

"What the hell, Kakashi?"

"Maybe it's because you'll be gone for two weeks on break, and I want to get in some quality time before we part. Or, because you like to address me so informally in my own classroom."

"Ugh." Naruto put his arms on the desk and dropped his head on top of them. "You suck."

"It's called tough love," Kakashi replied.

"I'm already gonna be leavin' two days early next week, can't you just cut me some slack?" Naruto groaned. "Like, once in your life, can you pretend to be human at least?"

Kakashi, while the whole class remained stiffly silent during their exchange, walked over to Naruto's desk. The blond picked up his head and glared at him.

"Why don't you go have a chat with Tsunade," Kakashi suggested.

"Are you serious? You said when I walked in it was cool because Mr. Perfect reported he'd seen me and knew I wasn't skipping, but then you - " Naruto stood up and grabbed for the backpack at his feet. "Nevermind. I'll get out. I don't care. But, at least sign this before I go."

Sasuke watched as the blond boy pulled out that wadded up piece of paper from his pocket and handed it to Kakashi.

"I have to get this in by the end of the day, and it's just you and my math teacher left."

"What is it?" Kakashi asked, trying to uncrumple it. "You've chosen an interesting time to ask for favors. Why is it all crumpled? I should make you get another one."

Kakashi read the slip, and looked at Naruto.

"A vacation slip? Going someplace far away, I hope?" He asked, making a hand gesture that he wanted Naruto to give him a pen.

Naruto reached in his bag for a pen and gave it to him.

As Kakashi took it, Naruto said: "Yeah, I'm gonna go visit my mother's grave since it's the one-year anniversary of her death. Far enough away for you?"

The tension was unreal as Kakashi and Naruto stared one another down. What was worse was the anniversary of Kushina's death had completely slipped Sasuke's mind, too. Everything had been so shitty these past few weeks that he'd assumed Naruto's delinquency and bad attitude was the product of their fight only. Not to mention Minato was still traveling all the time.

"I'm sorry, Naruto," said Kakashi. "I apologize. I forgot that it was that time."

"It's fine." Naruto glanced away, but his face was pretty red. "Sorry I've been such a jackass lately. I've got crap on my mind. I'll be better next term."

Kakashi gave him the signed slip. Naruto took it, his head bowed and hair falling over his eyes, shielding his expression. But, the older man placed his hand on top of Naruto's head, ruffled his hair, and leaned down to whisper in his ear. Naruto nodded in response to whatever he'd said and, shifting his pack to the other shoulder, walked out of the room again. Almost everybody turned in their seats to watch him leave. A lot of the girls appeared startled. Some looked ready to chase after him. Sasuke could empathize. However, he doubted Naruto wanted anything to do with him right now, and, more than likely, Kakashi really had sent him off to see Tsunade for counseling.

He felt sort of guilty he hadn't known Naruto was going back to Illinois before the start of their holiday break. Naruto had algebra seventh period, but if he could catch him after that, they might finally have a talk. Not that school was the best place for it, but he didn't have a lot of free time. He had rehearsal tonight, and the show was on Saturday. Friday was his only option. Meanwhile, Kakashi had walked to the front of the classroom.

"I apologize for the interruption," he announced. "Adults can be stupid sometimes, too. It's an interesting lesson you'll find out as you get older and, the best thing you can do is apologize when you're in the wrong. Now, if we can focus on today's lesson, turn to chapter 14. Sasuke, if you'll read that first paragraph. Please."

Sasuke had the book out on his desk, but didn't have it open. He touched the cover with the tips of his fingers.

"Sasuke?" Kakashi asked again. "Chapter 14?"

"Right." He said, flipping to the marked page. "Sorry. I'll read it now."

After his algebra class, which he only managed to get through because they were given a free period to work on an assignment, Naruto made his way downstairs. He hadn't been paying attention, but as he headed for his locker, Naruto spotted Sasuke leaning against the one next to his. He had his backpack and his coat on like he was ready to leave but had been waiting on him to get here. Naruto had no clue what he wanted considering Sasuke had spent the last few weeks ignoring him. That included not even making eye contact when they passed in the hall.

"What?" He asked, focusing on entering his combination. "Did Kakashi send you after me?"

"I want to see if you're free tomorrow."

Naruto gave a rather incredulous snort. "Free? To do what?"

"Talk."

"Talk?" After opening his locker, he glanced suspiciously at the teen. "Why? What about?"

"Just talk."

Naruto slipped on his coat and adjusted the faux-fur lined hood. "What's your deal exactly? After you heard what I said in class, you suddenly wanna talk to me after giving me the cold shoulder for three weeks? Do you feel sorry for me or something? That's not really your style, Sasuke."

Sasuke's eye appeared to twitch. "Are you free or not?"

"No, tomorrow's Friday. I already have plans."

"Doing what?" Sasuke asked.

"Not that it's any of your business, but I'm goin' out with Kayla and some other people."

"...I see." There was a nearly undetectable raise of an eyebrow. "What about Saturday morning or early afternoon?"

Naruto sighed, slinging his backpack over his shoulder. "I'm busy then, too. I'm hangin' out with Sai all day and then spendin' the night at his apartment. Is this somethin' we can discuss now?"

"I…" Sasuke glanced at his watch.

"If I'm takin' up too much of your precious time, don't stick around on my account."

"No, you ass," Sasuke hissed. "I have a rehearsal I need to be at in less than an hour. That's why I asked if you were free later."

"Right, when it's convenient for you. Got it."

Sasuke grabbed him by the arm and shoved him into the locker. "I am trying here, Naruto. I'm sorry I forgot it was the anniversary of your mother's death. I only want to talk."

"There's nothing to talk about, Sasuke." Naruto glanced around the hall. Other kids were coming out of the classrooms, and they were all staring at the both of them.

Sasuke, who was usually the one to avoid any display of public affection (or, in this case public anger management issues) didn't seem to notice that while he had Naruto forced up against the locker, his face was close enough for him to count the flecks of dark brown around his pupils.

"You know," he warned him, keeping his voice low. "We are in a really public place.".

"So?"

"So, genius," he repeated sarcastically. "You are standin' really close to me right now. People might get the wrong idea, and you wouldn't want that, would you?"

"We aren't close." Sasuke sneered. "We aren't close at all."

"Not anymore maybe," Naruto replied, Sasuke's brutal tone only serving to increase his own anger and bitterness. "All the more reason for me to not understand why you're here."

Before Sasuke could reply with what was likely to be a dick response, Sai appeared from around the corner and eyed the two of them suspiciously.

"Hey, is there a problem?" Sai asked.

"Mind your own business," Sasuke said, though he did let go of his coat sleeve.

"Why do you always have to pick a fight with Naruto?" Sai asked. "Don't you and the student council have to go buy some doilies for this year's prom decorations?"

Sasuke glared. "What are you, his guard dog now?"

"I'm his friend," Sai replied. "Which is more than I can say about you. Then again, you seem like the type to discard someone once they're no longer of value to you."

Naruto, managing to escape being stuck between Sasuke and the lockers, moved to stand between the two of them. He placed his hand on Sai's chest, holding him back. It was kind of nice to have Sai sticking up for him, but he didn't want this to get physical.

"Forget about it," Naruto told him. "It's not worth it. Sasuke, I don't have time to talk to you before I leave, and there's nothin' for us to talk about that hasn't already been said."

Sai took Naruto by the arm. "Come on, Naruto. I'll drive you home, or maybe we can go hang out for a while."

"Yeah, that'd be cool." Naruto gave Sasuke one last look. "Have fun at your rehearsal."

Sasuke stared back. "Have fun on your date tomorrow."

As Sai pulled him away, Naruto grinned sadistically, and shouted: "Don't worry, I will. Maybe I'll send you a video of it. I know how much you like those!"

Sai, still dragging him along, seemed extremely annoyed.

"What was that last comment about?" Sai asked. "When are you going to tell me what the hell really went on between the two of you? I've not seen Sasuke like that before."

"It's nothing worth mentioning," Naruto replied. "You can stop draggin' me now."

Sai let go of his arm. "I don't get it. All this time it seemed like you two were joined at the hip. Hell, I even had times I thought the reason you turned me down was because of him. Until you started dating Kayla and Skankovich."

"Hey, don't call her that," Naruto said. "She was a nice girl."

"Right, so you broke up with her because…?"

"Because I found out she was workin' her way through the varsity baseball team?"

"Exactly," said Sai. "Even if she had nice things to say about your skills and… endowment."

"Yeah, so don't call her that dumb name," Naruto argued.

"Then what happened between you and Sasuke? Did you fuck a girl he liked, for real? Did he fuck a girl you liked? Did you both like the same girl, and typical male hormones?"

Naruto pocketed his hands into his coat. "Why does it matter? We fought, we're not friends anymore. It happens all the time."

"Yes, but it's Sasuke. You and Sasuke. Everyone thinks you're the Odd Couple."

"Well, we're certainly not a couple. He'd be too much of an asshole to date anyway."

Sai eyed him strangely as they walked into the parking lot.

"Why would you consider dating Sasuke?" Sai asked.

"I have no idea," Naruto admitted and felt like he meant it. He'd had plenty of nights since his confession to wonder that very thing. "No fucking clue. I'd have to be mad out of my fucking skull, Sai."

"So, would you date me before you'd date him? I mean, hypothetically speaking."

"You mean if I was hypothetically gay?" Naruto asked.

"You don't have to be gay these days to be into other guys," Sai replied calmly.

"I know that. I wasn't saying anything. Sorry, I just don't want to talk about it because he pisses me off, and I just - "

When he stopped, Sai stopped alongside of him.

"He really hurt my feelings, you know?" Naruto finished. "I… trusted him… I… but it was stupid to. Not because he's untrustworthy, but you should never bet all your chips on one person… you should always operate with a Plan B, knowing that at any minute someone will fuck you over if given the opportunity. It's stupid to open up to people. They'll only hurt you in the end."

"Okay…" Sai put an arm around his shoulder. "So, he broke your trust."

Sai got them walking again, toward his car parked near the football field.

"Trust as in I didn't expect him to hurt me like he did. But, at least he was honest, right?"

"He said something that hurt your feelings?" Sai pat him on the back. "Maybe he just doesn't appreciate you. Sasuke doesn't have any idea how much of a cold dick he was before you moved here. I'm surprised you could stand him for as long as you did."

"He's not a bad guy," Naruto said, feeling guilty for saying anything about it. "I just… don't think we're very compatible."

"What is it you think he wanted to talk to you about?"

"Tch. I don't know." Naruto kicked a rock. "I blurted out in our English class about how I'm goin' to visit my dead mom, so I guess he felt guilty."

"You…" Sai shook his head. "Alright. Let's go somewhere that'll calm you down. How about the arcade? Sound good?"

"I don't have any cash." Naruto frowned.

"I'll spot you for the day." Sai pulled him in closer. "Let's just have some fun. You have your date tomorrow - "

"It's not a date," Naruto interrupted. "It's a group of us hangin' out. Kayla's cool. We already dated. It's not like that."

"Uh huh… and then you're mine on Saturday, right?"

"Yep. As long as you let me sleep in until 11. I'm free after that. I'll bring a bag. I already told dad I'm stayin' at your place."

"Sounds good. Did you tell Sasuke where we were going on Saturday? Make sure he won't be there?" Sai asked.

"Nah, but you said it was a chick band, and he doesn't play with any group like that. We're good. He's never played there before anyway."

"Alright. Then we'll make a night out of it." He pushed Naruto away playfully. "Try to get laid tomorrow, Naruto. I think you need it."

Naruto purposely slid into him, knocking into his side. "Shut up. If I get pent up, I'll just jerk off, and think about your mom while I do it."

"I doubt you'd be the first, and you definitely won't be the last."

Naruto chuckled. "That's terrible. Where's she at right now? Morocco? Istanbul?"

"Dubai, I think," Sai replied. "Can't keep track."

The dark-haired boy unlocked the car for them, and Naruto got into the passenger seat, messing with the radio the instant Sai turned on the ignition. A Black Keys song was playing, so he hummed along, drumming on the dash with his hands.

"...I gotta love that keeps me waitin'." He sang, turning up the volume. "I'm a lonely boy…"

"Good to see you're in a better mood," said Sai. "To the arcade?"

"Yeah." Naruto nodded, smiling at his friend. "To the arcade!"

On the way to the venue, Sasuke nearly changed his mind about subbing in for this show. He was in a horrible mood. It would be unprofessional to ditch them at the last minute (even if the singer had asked at the last minute), but wouldn't it be worse if he showed up and acted like a total asshole? He didn't want a reputation in this circle for being a diva, and silly high school drama was hardly an acceptable excuse for showing up with an attitude. Why did he let Naruto get under his skin like that? Then again, Naruto was always doing that. Apparently it worked both ways, so at least he could get some satisfaction out of their hostile encounter. What did Naruto expect him to do? If he was busy, he was busy - at least he'd volunteered to talk about it. Maybe he'd dictated the timing, but it obviously had to be before he left for Chicago.

Fuck it.

Arriving at the stop nearest Seattle University's campus on the north side, Sasuke took in a deep breath and pulled up his hood. His guitar, which he'd had to store in the music room all day, was strapped to his back as he stepped off the bus. It was snowing lightly, with a projection of flurries later on when he'd need to get home. If only Itachi were around, he'd try to bum a ride off of him. Then again, his brother was more likely to tell him to find his own way home. When he arrived at the venue, he waited for one of the workers to open the front door. He introduced himself, and the younger man let him in and asked if he wanted anything to drink.

"Water," he answered. "I didn't have a chance to grab a bottle on my way here."

"Sure," the blond said. "The band's setting up on stage, so just head through that door." He pointed in a general direction, not that Sasuke needed help finding the stage.

The band, which used to have a couple of guys in it, had recently renamed and recruited all female players. It was curious, then, why they'd asked him to sub for their female guitar player. The band, #Feminist, already had a sound reputation. They had a few original tracks and still did covers, mostly of female-fronted indie bands and a variety of punk or rock groups like the Peaches, Ladytron, Sleater-Kinney, The Coathangers, Pussy Riot, etc. It would be an interesting experience for him, and, so far, every conversation he'd had with the singer, Rin Nohara, had him excited about joining in on Saturday. It was also kind of cool they were both Japanese. Half anyway, since she'd said her mother was from Brazil.

Sasuke headed toward the stage. The women (all older than him) were moving some heavy equipment, so he shucked off his coat and carried his guitar up there. Rin had been advising one of the other band members about how to connect the wires to the speakers when she noticed him. She smiled, getting to her feet and dusting her hands off on her thighs.

"Sasuke," Rin greeted, looking happy to see him.

She had on a pair of ripped black jeggings, heavy black boots, flannel shirt, black beanie, black-framed glasses, and a Nirvana shirt. If Naruto had been here, he would've drooled all over the floor. There was a reddish tint to her shoulder-length brown hair.

Sasuke held out his hand to her. "I like your shirt."

Rin laughed, and he could already tell she was a down-to-earth and genuine person (you never knew with lead singers, after all).

"Thanks. It's hard not bein' a fan when you're born and bred here, huh?"

"Yes, indeed," he replied. "I'm sorry, am I late? I thought we were meeting up at 4.15?"

"The girls and I got here early, you aren't late. I didn't want you to have to worry about settin' up the equipment. You're already doin' us a big favor. Apparently our bandmate got food poisoning after she went on this cruise with her parents, and we'd already been paid for the show."

"It's perfectly fine," he said. "I got your setlist. I knew most of them already, the others I practiced last night, so I shouldn't embarrass you too much."

"Are you kidding?" She played with the bracelets on her wrist. "We're lucky to have you. I've seen you play live so many times and always thought you rocked it. I didn't think you'd say yes."

Sasuke had to admit he was extremely flattered. "It was last April, but I remember you opened for a band I was playing bass with."

"Right, Yagura's band." She nodded. "That's when I was with the guys, but they all graduated and the band broke up. You know how it goes."

"I like the new name," he said. "Are you sure I fit the bill?"

"Yeah, don't worry. I've heard just as many of the ladies as men compliment your professionalism and skill, so… yeah, I think you'll do. I even saved you a t-shirt."

He smirked. "Good, I'm glad. I'll wear it with pride. I like your bracelet, speaking of."

"Yeah," she said, spinning it around. "You…?"

"I don't make a big deal about it since I'm not out to family, but yeah."

"Right, no I get it. I'm a fan of boys and girls. Actually, a percentage of what we make on ticket sales will go to a local foundation for queer kids in Seattle. So, I hope that's cool?"

"Obviously."

She smiled at him, her big brown eyes almost sparkling, reminding him of someone.

"So, do you have any friends comin' to see you on Saturday?" Rin asked, setting a hand on her hip. "Or did they make fun of you because you'll be playin' with a bunch of chicks?"

"Hardly," he replied. "Of the few I told, they were jealous. Although, maybe for reasons that weren't so professional."

She laughed. "We get that a lot, but mostly our fanbase is girls. We have our loyal boys, too, and I figured anyone who follows you might also show up to give us a chance."

"Ah, yes, I'll make sure to post about it tonight."

"I didn't mean to pitch it to you like that," she said. "I just think it's really awesome how everyone in our little circle helps each other out. I was thinking… Sasuke."

"Yes?" He could tell by that look of hers that she had something unsettling to propose.

"I know you usually just play bass or electric, but I've heard that you can sing."

"I never sing, especially not on stage," he said, feeling his stomach turning at the suggestion.

"I only want to propose the idea because I thought a duet would be good for a cover or two I've always wanted to play. I thought I might even offer you a solo if you'd like? Your choosing. I know you like punk covers, but we're open to whatever. There's nothing the girls can't play or learn overnight. Or you can play by yourself. We have an extra acoustic, as well."

"I'll have to think about it," he said, hesitant to even say no for fear of being rude. "I don't mind doing backup, but I've never done lead. Which song did you have in mind?"

"'Drive'. Or, maybe 'Love Interruption'?" She took off the beanie she wore and stuffed it into her back pocket. "I think your voice would suit the Oh Wonder song. It's our only pop cover. Although, I also wanted to do 'Music When the Lights Go Out', but I think we can split the vocals if you prefer?" Rin batted her eyelashes at him for effect.

"You realize that doesn't work on me, right?" He smiled anyway.

She smiled back. "Consider it a compliment. I've always wanted to collab on a couple of songs, and it's sort of why I scouted you. Besides your ridiculous skills on bass and guitar, I've heard you can sing. So. Sing for us? Sing with me? Please? Sasuke? Please?"

"I'll…" He sighed, only realizing then that the other women had stopped and appeared to be waiting for his answer with a certain amount of anticipation. "If we rehearse it tonight, and I don't sound so shit that I'll embarrass everyone. I'll have to think about the solo. I…"

Rin didn't let him finish before she threw herself at him. She hugged him while bouncing up and down on her tip toes. "I am so stoked about this, Sasuke. You have no idea!"

"I would've thought being gay, women wouldn't have so much power over me."

"Oh, c'mon." She stepped back, rubbing the back of her head (not unlike how Naruto always did). "So, I guess if you want to set up your guitar, we can discuss the setlist some more, and… we'll start rehearsing? We have the place until 9, and then they have a show at 10. We can always get together at my place, too, if you feel like you want to practice the duet things more."

"That might be good, but I think that's plenty of time. I catch on quickly."

"I know," she said. "They say you're a genius."

"I wouldn't go that far. Do you mind if I introduce myself to everyone else first?"

"Oh, yeah, yeah. Of course! Sorry, we've all been so excited to meet you and work with you, but yes, let me introduce you to the rest of the band."

Rin did the introductions. There was a bassist, keyboardist, and a drummer. Rin was vocalist and lead guitar. The drums were set up and branded with the band's name. After he finished with his greetings (and that blond man from before finally brought him a bottle of water), Sasuke tuned his Fender, and the five of them began their rehearsal for Saturday's show.

Naruto, who'd been hoping for a snow day, was glued to the TV on Friday morning. He shoveled his spoonful of Cheerios into his mouth. In the kitchen, his father was blending a bunch of crap into a smoothie, making it nearly impossible to hear the weather forecaster.

"Dad," he complained. "How am I supposed to know if I have to go to school today?"

"Do you want some?" Minato asked. "This one doesn't have kale in it."

Naruto scrunched his nose, not bothering to look over and see what disgusting concoction his dad had gone with today. "I'll pass. Hey, don't forget I'm goin' out tonight. I should be back late, dunno what time."

"Don't be later than your curfew," Minato replied. "Haven't you been going out a lot lately? And why haven't I seen Sasuke around. Are you two still fighting?"

Luckily, his dad became distracted, and he didn't need to answer, not that he was going to give one. Last night was the first in a long while Naruto had gone without thinking about that stuff. Sai showed him a good time. It almost made him think he'd fallen for the wrong gay boy. He felt really grateful to have such a good friend, but, yeah, it did suck that he couldn't tell him the truth. If it didn't feel like he needed to keep Sasuke's sexuality orientation a secret, it might be nice to talk to someone about what he was going through, which is why he was super psyched that Itachi was flying in on Tuesday. They'd been texting over the past few weeks. He wouldn't admit this to Sasuke - not that he'd have a chance to - but he'd also heard from Yahiko. Only twice, and in one text, he let Naruto know he was back with Konan so "don't ask for another kiss next time we see one another."

"I'm about to head to work," said Minato. "Do you want a ride?"

Naruto glanced at his dad, who was well dressed as usual. "Nah. I'll take the bus, it's cool. School's out of the way for you, and traffic sucks at this time of day."

"Alright, if you insist." The older blond man retrieved his heavy coat from the closet. "Don't forget to do your laundry this weekend so that you're packed before we need to take off."

"I'll do it on Sunday when I get back from Sai's."

"Why don't you wake up early on Saturday and do it before you go out?"

"Why does it matter when I do it so long as I have it done by Wednesday?" He mumbled.

"Is this talking back thing becoming a habit again? If I get one more call from Jiraiya about your attitude at school, you can forget about going out at all this weekend."

"Whatever. I'll do the laundry tomorrow then." He rolled his eyes after returning his attention to the news channel, which was now showing pets up for adoption at a local shelter.

"I guess I won't see you until Sunday unless you're home early. Be careful, Naruto."

"Alright." He lifted up a hand and waved it (sarcastically). "Later, Dad."

At the end of school on Friday, Sasuke had some free time before he needed to meet for a brief student council meeting. He'd often found that one of the quietest places at school was usually the music room. He sat at the piano and stared at his fingers outstretched across the keys. It was the first time in a very long while he could say he was nervous about a performance, mostly because he had agreed to not only split vocals on a two songs, but to do a solo with Rin as back-up.

It's not as if he thought he couldn't, but he hadn't practiced being lead vocals for anything. Having only a day and a half to practice wasn't usually how he liked to do these things. He'd only posted about it on the professional Twitter he used, so he didn't expect anyone from school to attend. Obviously, Naruto wouldn't be there. If he would've been, though, Sasuke would've been less inclined to agree to it. He thought the two of them could've spoken today given yesterday's conversation, but Naruto didn't show up to gym, and the blond had been subdued and distracted during English. Those were the only classes they had together this semester. They had the same lunch period, but, as of late, Naruto mostly stuck to eating with the jocks, while Sasuke sat with some people from student council and other academic clubs.

Without thinking, he started playing a classical piece from memory. Music was about the only thing that kept his mind off of his frustrations. The day after his father went to the hospital, Sasuke didn't go to school, but when he went on Tuesday, he was still distracted and angry at everyone for keeping him in the dark. He didn't talk to Naruto, but, honestly, it wasn't on his mind to apologize. As time went on, and neither of them spoke to one another, the silence extended. A part of him thought Naruto might come to him first, but he never did. When they did interact, it was always hostile to some degree. Nowadays, he simply reacted to Naruto's cold attitude and tone because… what else was he supposed to do? It was too late to apologize. He also didn't think he needed to apologize because he'd been honest. Could he have worded it better? Yes. Possibly. Did he feel bad about hurting Naruto's feelings? ...Yes. It's not like Naruto acted as if he were willing to have a discussion about it anytime soon. Naruto was always spending time with other friends, so his life could apparently carry on without him. It had occurred to him - and not because Itachi kept telling him as much - that he'd regret his decision some day. But, he also wasn't going to change his mind. Even for Naruto. Not right now, at least.

As he continued playing, his mind wandered. Apparently for so long that he didn't notice someone else had come into the room until they tapped him on the shoulder.

"Sasuke?"

It was Kayla.

"The meeting was supposed to start five minutes ago," she said. "I didn't know where you might be, but I bumped into Naruto as he was leaving, and he suggested I might find you here."

"Did he?" Sasuke shut the fallboard and stood. "Sorry. I must've lost track of time."

"I almost felt guilty stopping you. You looked really focused. Naruto always talked about how talented you are at music. I wish he would've brought me to one of your shows."

Sasuke, however, was rather thankful he hadn't. He also noted her use of the past tense.

"They're not especially great," he said. "And I'm about average."

"I'm sure you're only being modest. Whatever you were playing sounded really beautiful."

He grabbed his pile of belongings he'd left on a chair. "Should we get going?"

"Yes, of course. I don't think it'll take too long. I gave the budget you proposed to the advisor, and she was going to give it to the principal today. We should know if it's been accepted by next Wednesday at the latest."

Sasuke nodded. "Thanks for taking care of that."

"No problem. You're the one who laid it all out in Excel. I don't feel like I did much to help."

He glanced at Kayla. She wasn't on council last year, but Sasuke found her easy to work with. She also caught on very quickly. After she and Naruto broke up, there wasn't much reason to hold a grudge. Naruto had taken her to last year's prom. Sasuke had confessed to him that she was the nicest girl in their class, but, in the end, she and Naruto dated for only a month.

"So," he said, trying to sound casual. "Naruto said you're going out tonight?"

"Oh, he did?" She blushed just enough for Sasuke to inwardly curse himself for asking. "Well, I mean. A group of us are going out to dinner and a movie. It's not really a date, I mean we - "

Sasuke felt his jaw tighten. "Sounds fun."

"Why don't you come with us, Sasuke? I thought you and Naruto were, you know, but maybe the two of you made up?"

"Did he say we were fighting?"

"Not exactly," she replied, starting to look embarrassed. "It's because you don't really talk in class anymore. Sorry, it's not really any of my business."

"It's fine," Sasuke assured her, annoyed and disturbed so many people were paying that close attention to his and Naruto's relationship.

She fidgeted with her blazer, and he felt Kayla had more she wanted to say or ask him, but as he wasn't in the mood to talk about Naruto, he put on his most aloof expression. Usually it shut people down from talking to him at all. It was difficult brushing her off given she'd been helping him out a lot lately with council duties. He let out a sigh. It's not as if she'd done anything wrong.

"If you need to meet up with Naruto or other friends, don't feel like you need to stay. I can handle everything on my own. There's really nothing for you to do, Kayla."

The girl smiled. "No, we're not meeting until later. I like helping you out if I can. It always feels like you take everything on yourself, so it's nice to be of use."

"Really?" He slipped a hand into a blazer pocket. "I hope you don't feel excluded from - "

"No, that's not what I meant!" She waved her hand emphatically, her cheeks lighting up again with a pretty flush. "Sorry. You and I don't really get to talk outside of class or council activities, so I just wanted to compliment you without it feeling like I was, you know, sucking up."

Sasuke suddenly stopped and looked at her.

"What?" She asked, her hazel eyes going wide with concern. "Did I say something wrong?"

"No… for a second you sounded… very much like Naruto."

"Oh. Is that why you're smiling?" She teased.

If she wasn't Naruto's ex-girlfriend, he might've teased her back. If Kayla was attempting to flatter him, it was working. Quite well, really. Dammit.

"I'm not smiling," he replied, and continued on without waiting.

Kayla, while laughing, quickly caught up. Being a cheerleader, she was athletic, curvy, and as obnoxiously bubbly as Naruto could be at times. It did occur to him to wonder whether this was a sign the two were getting back together. It wasn't his business to ask, so he didn't try to.

"Are you sure I can't convince you to come tonight?" She asked. "I think Naruto would like it. If you're worried about it, I can always talk to him - "

"That's not necessary," he said, almost too abruptly. "Besides, I have something else to do tonight. Thank you, though, for the invitation."

"Maybe another time then?" She asked hopefully. "It might be nice for the three of us to hang out over break. When Naruto gets back anyway."

"When will that be?" Again, he kept his voice neutral.

"The 26th is what he said, why? He didn't tell you?"

He detected pity. A lie was in order. "He did, but it slipped my mind."

"Oh, okay, well maybe another time then."

"Sure," he said. "Maybe."

Naruto was sitting in the back of a car, sharing a Lyft with Kayla as they headed to the restaurant where they were meeting the rest of the group.

"Are you alright?" She asked, drawing his attention away from the window and passing scenery.

"Oh, yeah." He smiled at her, not having been aware he'd been acting strange. "It's felt like a long week. How are you? You doin' okay?"

Kayla laughed at his distractedness. "Yes, I'm doing fine."

Naruto put on a neutral face. "So, did you end up finding Sasuke?"

"Yes, I did. He was exactly where you said he'd be."

"Eh, I figured. If he was still at school, that's the place where he hides when - " He stopped because it meant Sasuke had something on his mind and needed a quiet place to think it over. "Did you have a good meeting? Get lots of stuff done?"

"There's not much to do. Sasuke does most of the work. I've tried to help him with some administrative functions where I can. I really like working with him."

"Do you?" He smiled crookedly. "That's good. You look nice tonight, by the way. I'm sorry if I didn't say so when I came to pick you up. You curled your hair."

"I haven't been going out as much, and since it's the last we'll hang out before the holidays, I thought it would be fun to dress up. I mean, as a group."

Naruto grinned. "Did you think I'd wonder if this is a date if you dressed up nice?"

She shoved at him him. "Shut up. I know it's not like that. Doesn't mean I don't want you to think I look nice. You're so annoying, Naruto."

"I'm not. I'm a perfect gentleman. Even if we're not together, I still consider you a friend, and as long as I'm not hittin' on you, I can tell you that you look pretty."

"Fine." She was blushing really hard, but he didn't feel all that bad about it. "I asked Sasuke if he wanted to come out with us tonight. He said no, but I kind of hoped he might since, you know."

He raised an eyebrow. "What do you mean?"

"It's obvious you two are fighting about something. I won't ask what happened, but I think it's sad. He must miss you, too, because he said I reminded him of you."

"He did?" Naruto turned in the seat. "Why?"

"You know what's funny is you're smiling just the way he did when he said it." She rolled her eyes. "Boys. I get girls holding grudges when they fight about dumb things - usually other boys - but I thought guys didn't do stuff like that."

"Usually guys fight it out and are done with it," he mumbled.

"Then why don't you fight it out with Sasuke?"

"Because," he replied.

"Who started it?"

"I don't wanna talk about it." Naruto stared out the window. "Neither does he, so it's fine."

"How do you know that?"

Naruto glanced at her, annoyance slipping into his tone. "Why are you asking all this?"

Kayla's eyes widened, and then narrowed. "Sorry. It's just my opinion. I care about you. I respect him. We all thought you were good friends, but okay. I get it. I'll drop it."

She turned her back on him and stared out the window, apparently pissed at him for snapping at her. Naruto reached for her arm and gave her coat sleeve a tug.

"I'm sorry. I didn't mean to snap at you," he said.

She glanced at him. "Don't you miss him? It makes me so sad."

He opened his mouth to reply, nothing came out. He took in a deep breath.

"Yeah… I do."

"Do you want me to help?" She asked. "I could talk to him."

"No." He attempted another smile. "It's between him and me. Maybe we spent too much time together, so some space between us would be good. Haven't you ever felt that way?"

"I don't know if I have, but I think that's the line you gave me when we broke up?" She wrinkled her nose in this cute way that at least let him know she wasn't being serious.

"Er." He leaned back, scratching his head. "Did I say that?"

"Not in so many words, but you thought we worked better as friends."

"Heh. I suppose some of the things we did friends don't do weren't so bad, though." He whispered low enough that it wouldn't embarrass her if the driver heard.

She punched him in the shoulder. "Whatever. It's so embarrassing that she ran her mouth about that kind of stuff, Naruto. Do you know how many people asked me about - " Kayla shook her head. "It's not as great for girls to be talked about as it is for boys."

"I know," he said, pouting. "I've never even said anything about you and me, so you can tell anyone what they want, not that it's their business."

"I will say you're a decent kisser," she commented.

He took hold of her arm and shook her again. "Only 'decent'?"

"Stop flirting with me, or I really will get the wrong idea," she told him, her tone flirtatious.

She was cute, he couldn't help it, even if he did really think they worked better as friends. Since he might've crossed a line with his teasing, he slid back to his side of the seat. They were only a few blocks from the restaurant. It was snowing heavier now, so traffic was moving slow.

"Can I ask you one more thing about Sasuke?" Kayla suddenly said.

"Sure, why not?"

"How long has he been playing the piano? Did you know he was that good?"

"Hm? I dunno how long, maybe since he was five or six? I only know his mom teaches kids sometimes, so she taught him, but he picks up a lot of stuff by ear. I haven't heard him play that often. I've only really seen him on guitar or bass, once or twice on the drums."

"I caught him playing when I went in to find him. It was really amazing. I had no idea. I already thought it was interesting when you said he plays in punk bands. But, he had this very intense look of concentration on his face. I walked all the way up to the piano and had to tap him on the shoulder before he realized I was there. It was so unlike how I've seen him before."

Naruto considered her words thoughtfully. There was a part of him that felt worried, concerned even, if something was going on with him other than what he already knew. Like if Fugaku had another medical emergency. Although, he figured Itachi would've let him know if that were true.

"Did he look… mad?" He asked, wondering if their encounter yesterday was the issue.

"No. Sad, maybe. I didn't recognize the piece he was playing." Kayla tried to hum it. "It went like that, sound familiar?"

"Not to me." He frowned. "That was nice of you to invite him. I think I might've been ticked, but if you'd told me this first, maybe it wouldn't have been so bad. As long as he didn't talk to me or come within five feet of me. He was waiting at my locker yesterday and wanted to talk about something. I think because of what I said in Kakashi's class."

"About your mother? Yeah, that… well, I already told you how I feel about that," she said.

"I know, but Kakashi pushed my last goddam button. He's so… he annoys me sometimes. I'll leave it at that. Always thinks he knows what's goin' on."

"I told you he apologized to the class after you left and said he was in the wrong."

"I know, that's why I kept my mouth shut today."

The car pulled up to the front of the restaurant. They thanked the driver and slid out on his side since it was nearest the sidewalk. He took Kayla's arm just because it looked really slick as they stepped onto the pavement.

"Well, let's not talk about it anymore. I don't want you to get kicked out, Naruto," she said. "That's all. School would be boring without you. Just like it was before you came."

Naruto held open the door for her, grinning. "Yeah? I bring excitement to your life?"

"I think you bring excitement into everybody's life, whether they want it or not," she replied sarcastically.

He stared at her.

"What?" She asked as he followed behind her into the entryway.

"You kinda just reminded me of Sasuke right then. That sounds like something he'd say."

Kayla gave him a long, searching look. "You know, if one of you was a girl, I'd suggest the two of you date. You both clearly care about one another, and he sees you in me and now you're seeing him in me? I don't understand it. Just go kiss and make up already."

Kayla, catching sight of their friends at a long table in the back, left him standing there, still trying to absorb her words. It was amusing, but it also suddenly made him sad as all hell. If either one of them were a girl, it wouldn't be a hassle, would it? And to think of it that way, it made him depressed. He'd stopped hoping for the outcome he'd expected to come out of confessing because he knew Sasuke, and Sasuke only said what he meant. Sasuke told him he didn't want him, didn't want to be with him, and hadn't even said he felt the same anyway. Naruto had stupidly confessed his love, thought it meant something to him, and then got pushed out of his life. So, no. He wasn't going to sit there and pine for Sasuke. Naruto could respect his decision, but he didn't have to be happy about it. Why couldn't he just be… bitter, angry… and sad? What right did Sasuke have to be contemplating shit alone in a music room? What right did he have to tell Kayla that something she said reminded Sasuke of him?

Why was Sasuke thinking about him at all? It was annoying and unfair. It made him angry.

"Naruto, you coming?" Kayla came back to get him.

"Yeah, I'm coming." Naruto reached for her scarf and uncoiled it for her. "Curly." He tugged at a piece of her auburn hair and grinned. "I'll have to beat the boys off you with a stick tonight."

"I'm glad you like it," she said, smiling at him affectionately. "Not everyone likes gingers."

"No? Hmm. It's one of my favorite colors. My mom had red hair."

"Ah, I see." She grabbed for his hand and squeezed it. "Come on, Naruto. I'll make sure you have a nice time. Let's not worry about anything, okay?"

"Alright." He nodded. "Then I'll thank you in advance for taking care of me tonight."

It was unusual for him to be home on a Friday night. When he wasn't playing a show, he'd usually be hanging out with Naruto. He'd cut back on playing lately since he figured his father would be stressed out less if he knew his son was focusing more on his studies than music. It was after 7, and his parents had gone on one of their dinner and a movie dates. He'd already finished his homework for the weekend and had even spent an hour practicing for tomorrow.

On his way down the hall toward his room, Sasuke pulled his phone out of his back pocket when it started to vibrate. He looked at the caller ID and debated not answering, but went ahead anyway. He took a seat in his desk chair and tried to keep his voice even.

"Hello, Itachi," he said while turning on his laptop.

"Sasuke," said his brother. "No show tonight?"

"I have one tomorrow," he answered stiffly, watching his computer background come to life. Blank now, but it used to be a photo of him and Naruto from a boat trip last summer.

"You didn't post about it."

"I posted to my professional account, not to any of my personal ones. Did you want something?"

"I did. I called to see if you could do me a favor."

"What might that be?" He asked, clicking around on the screen.

"Can you pick me up at the airport on Monday? My flight gets in at 7.30. Is that enough time for you to get home from school and drive to Tacoma?"

"That's fine. Why didn't you ask mother or father? Or take the train?"

"You don't want to pick me up?" Itachi asked. "I can just as easily ask Deidara or someone else."

"I said it was fine," he replied. "I'll be there around then."

"Sasuke," said his brother, using that serious tone that would've had him snapping a pencil in two if he'd had one in his hand. "How are you doing? Really?"

"I'm fine. If that's all you called for, I'm going to hang up - "

"I'm going out with Naruto on Tuesday."

"What?" He asked. "What do you mean?"

"I mean we're going out," Itachi repeated.

"Like a date?" Sasuke scoffed. "Yeah, right. You're both straight. You're only trying to piss me off."

"Would it be so strange to call it a date?" Itachi asked. "I consider Naruto a good friend whom I've always liked. I enjoy talking to him, so I asked him to meet me before he flies to Chicago."

Sasuke felt a quiet rage building. "You knew he was going to Illinois?"

"Didn't you?"

"Not until yesterday, and not because he was telling me specifically. He didn't post about it."

"I thought he did on his Facebook. Maybe he blocked you?"

Sasuke turned on the speaker and went to Naruto's Facebook. He didn't see anything, but it was possible that idiot could've blocked him from specific posts. It led to him scrolling through Naruto's Twitter and Snapchat, which was a mistake because on his Snapchat there was a whole series of photos from tonight. Mostly of Naruto and Kayla looking like a couple. He was friends with Kayla, too. So, being a masochist, he searched through hers, too.

"Sasuke?"

"What."

"Are you mad I'll be going out with him?" Itachi asked.

"No. I don't give a shit who he goes out with," he snapped. "Do what you want, Itachi. If you're going to say 'go on a date', at least mean it. Let me know if you fuck him. See you on Monday."

He hung up. What the fuck was that call about? Like he cared if Naruto went out with him somewhere? A date? What the hell was that supposed to mean? Surely, he didn't mean an actual date, because that would be stupid. So what if Naruto had had a crush on his brother since the first day they met? Did Kayla have no shame either? Couldn't she get it through her head they were broken up, and Naruto didn't like her that way? Sasuke stared at a photo on Kayla's Instagram of her and Naruto, his arms around her shoulders, and he was kissing her on the cheek. He read all of the comments, too. Mostly other girls asking if they were going out again, commenting what a cute couple they were, and how hot Naruto was. Disgusting. He dropped his phone on the desk. Then he changed his mind and shoved it inside the drawer so he wouldn't feel compelled to keep stalking them. It shouldn't bother him, but it did. If he rejected Naruto, the other boy had every right to date who he wanted, get with whom he wanted, and to do whatever the fuck he wanted. Even if it made him feel like the things Naruto said that night weren't serious given he was that quick to move on.

Naruto should mope around more, fight with him, and act like his world had been turned upside down. He shouldn't be… out having fun with Sai and Kayla and making plans with his brother to fuck around town for an evening. Assholes.

Yes, he'd rejected a relationship with Naruto. He'd accepted Naruto may stay mad at him forever and that they would no longer be as close as they used to, either physically or emotionally, and… It was stupid, but he felt he had a right to Naruto. If Naruto had feelings for him, if he thought about that last night they were together, the things they did, the way it felt so much more intense and sexy as fuck. If Naruto knew how many times he'd jerked off thinking about that night since then, what would he say? It's not like he didn't have feelings for Naruto, too. Ones he'd attempted to bury over the past month. But, if he'd made a decision about it, he had to stick to it. What he thought inside his own head, however, didn't have to hurt anyone.

It's not like sleeping with that DJ meant anything to him, so Naruto could get with people, too, and it wouldn't mean anything either, right? Except Kayla was a nice, pretty girl. Sasuke could see those two getting together again, but could she make him moan like he could? Would Naruto ever look at her the way he did Sasuke? If Naruto wanted her more, why did they break up in the first place? Why was it that Naruto confessed his love to him?

Sasuke knew what they had, even if it was past tense now, was more intense than any shit Naruto could have with some high school girl. He knew, from the way Naruto looked at him, from the way they fought, how they kissed, how they played these stupid games just to work each other up…

They'd never be able to get Naruto to respond the way he could. Who knew Naruto's body better than him? Besides, he had proof, didn't he?

Getting up from the chair, Sasuke went and locked the door only to return to the desk, unplug his laptop, and carry it over to the bed. He slipped his shirt over his head and unzipped his jeans, leaving everything in a messy pile on the floor. When he was only in boxers, he sat on the side of the bed and searched through various files until he found the one he was looking for. He paused it so that he could turn off the lamp on the nightstand and grab a bottle of lotion from the drawer. Sasuke slid under the covers. To be honest, he'd not watched the video at all. He'd never intended to because it hadn't seemed fair, and yet it was the only evidence he had that their night together even occurred. Maybe he didn't record those words Naruto said, the ones that had shook him and, for a brief time, made him feel like he could have everything he'd ever wanted.

Why didn't he say anything back to him about his feelings? Had he known - before it even had a chance to start - that a relationship between them was destined to come to an end? No. Because what happened after Naruto confessed (what he'd caught on video) was real to him, too. Sliding a hand under the waistband of his shorts, he hit play.

"Don't worry," he heard himself say to Naruto. "It's only recording and not streaming."

"You... exhibitionist!"

On the screen, he saw himself go and stand in front of Naruto.

"Are you serious?" Naruto was asking him.

"I don't look serious?"

He remembered that anxious, eager expression of Naruto's at the suggestion of filming them. Sasuke saw himself slip to his knees in front of Naruto as he sat in the chair. He watched himself pry the boy's thighs apart and take him into his mouth. The video was of decent quality, even if the room had been dark. He could hear the wet sounds from him sucking Naruto's cock.

Sasuke murmuring to him, "Don't forget to keep quiet."

Hand slick with lotion, he stroked himself, enjoying being able to see the look on Naruto's face from this viewpoint. The way he had his hand at the back of Sasuke's head, pushing him down. The sounds Naruto kept making. Sasuke could recall just how it felt to suck him off. There was nothing sexier than Naruto's eyes watching him as he did it, because it was so apparent how much he fucking loved it. When he saw himself with Naruto's legs over his shoulders, Sasuke let out a moan. The Naruto in the video seemingly answering him as he let out a similar noise of pleasure. He watched himself touch Naruto's body everywhere, like it belonged to him.

He started to recall what he'd been thinking then: Could he treat Naruto as his now? Could he be satisfied knowing no one else could touch Naruto like this? Wasn't he the only one who could make him feel this way? The thought of being able to take their physical relationship further.

"Fuck," Naruto hissed as his hips started to jerk.

Sasuke let Naruto slip free of his mouth and began pumping the teen's cock. Meanwhile, Naruto reached over and swiped at the corner of his mouth with a thumb.

"You're so fucking hot, Sasuke," he'd said.

Sasuke shut his eyes after hearing Naruto's voice, those words repeating inside his head while he imagined Naruto here now. His body ached for it even if his stubborn brain kept refusing to agree with the rest of him. Fuck Naruto for not trying harder to convince him.

For not chasing him. Why give up something that felt so good?

Sasuke heard himself on the video. "What do you want?"

"Anything you want," Naruto replied, conjuring up all kinds of images inside Sasuke's mind.

"Don't say 'anything'. I might not be able to stop myself tonight."

"I've got it under control."

When Sasuke opened his eyes and looked at the screen, he saw the way Naruto's fingers curled around his neck, the two of them leaning in for a kiss. He thought about how it felt when Naruto's tongue pressed against his. Sasuke envied the him in this video as Naruto dragged him into his lap. Naruto slipped a hand inside his pants and stroked him rough. If he could have Naruto's hand on him now… watching Sasuke watch him. So confident and sure. So sexy.

Telling Sasuke, "Get hard for me again. I wanna make you come all night."

"I haven't even...aah...made you come yet."

"I'll come when I've gotten you off twice. Now, take these off."

Sasuke was close. With his boxers having slipped past his thighs, he tried to pretend it wasn't his hand anymore. He wanted to feel Naruto's lips and tongue all over his skin. He wanted to feel Naruto's teeth biting into his shoulder, claiming him - marking him. He came hard into his hand, thinking about Naruto's mouth on his while he forced Sasuke over the edge, him releasing into the blond's hand as Naruto kissed him with a flair of possessiveness. Something he'd always fantasized about. Always wanted. Naruto wanting him just the way Sasuke had always wanted Naruto. Then, when he finally did get what he wanted, he'd let it slip through his fingers.

As Sasuke regained himself, he heard Naruto say. "You've got enough footage."

After that, they'd moved out of view of the camera. He remembered what came next, but he shouldn't think about it. Sasuke shut his laptop and set his clean hand on his chest, the other still inside his boxers. On second thought, he opened it again and waited for the screen to turn on. He got up onto his elbow and, right clicking on the file, stared at the options. He bit his lip, almost hesitating, but then he clicked delete. Sasuke went to the recycle bin… and permanently deleted the video. There was an emptiness inside his chest that felt as if it was further hardening his heart. What had he done? What had he given up? How much would he regret this years from now?

Then again. No one had to know he felt this way. So what if they had chemistry? That was no excuse for worrying his family. Naruto was just a boy. Sasuke would meet other boys in this lifetime. And Naruto would find a girl he liked, that suited him much better than Sasuke, and that could… give him things like marriage and kids. Things he knew someone like Naruto would eventually want. It was easier to give Naruto up if he thought it was in his best interest, too.

So, why then, were the tears starting to fall like he'd lost something as important as a family member? A part of himself. He wiped at his cheeks, cursing this stupid fucking bullshit about love and high school romances. Yet, here he was. Knowing he was still in love with Naruto, but that he could never have him. Not anymore. He didn't deserve him. But it was hard, cutting those ties. It meant being an asshole and potentially pushing him so far away that Naruto might give up on him forever. It meant sacrificing a once-in-a-lifetime bond with someone he was drawn to on a deeper level than he'd ever known.

How did someone cut themselves off from that completely?

Like always, he supposed that was something he'd have to figure out all on his own.

TBC

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