Yohoho! I am back with another chapter.
First thing first, I am terribly sorry for the delay. Well, I am doing my best over here to juggle with many things at hand so…please don't eat me. (giggles)
It has been too long BUT I still have to THANK YOU FOR THE REVIEWS!
Yup! Thanks so much!
Now let's not waste time and away with the new chappie! :D
SUNNY DAYS!
(Sweet Seventy)
Three…The Other Raven…
"Left, left, more to the left! Watch out for that cone!"
SMACK!
"Now turn to the right. Ah! Not too much! Brake! Put on the brakes! Ouff!"
BRAKE! SCREECH!
"Al…right….Let's take this slowly…alright…Now. Let's try rever—SIIIIIINNNNGGGG! UWAAAH!"
WHIRRRRR! SMACK! SMACK! BANG! CRASH!
From afar:
Under the shades of an umbrella and safely on top on a breezy hill side;
"How are things going on, Sa-chan?" the pinkette asked sipping onto tea served in delicate French teacup, set it down and dive her fork into sweet confection.
"Not good, Sakura-sama," said the butler in calm composure before peeking into the pair of binoculars again. "Aa…now the instructor is heading towards us," he said turning towards his Miss. "And very angrily too." He added.
"Really…," she too said calmly while chewing onto crispy pastry. "How many times has this been?"
"The third. I guess we should start looking for another instructor soon."
The pinkette nodded.
"MISS! HARUNO!" shouted from a distance.
That was quick. She didn't expect the very angry driving instructor to storm up to her within seconds after she was informed of. Gently she set down her fork, wiped her hands and took a generous sip of tea before facing the angry man.
"Yes, Mr. Instructor. I can hear you well enough so there is no need to be loud," she said like a lady of poise. "I see there is a problem?"
"INDEED!" replied the fuming man as he tried to restrain his anger. "Mr. Haruno he—"
"And what is it about my husband?" she asks. "His learning progress?"
"ABSOLUTELY!" the instructor meant to raise his voice. "He has absolutely no talent at all! He could not even make a proper turn and…"
His complaints went on and on without even bothering to mind his manners not even when the Uchiha was present.
"Anyhow, I QUIT!" throwing in the towel, the instructor stormed away.
Well…now what?
Sasuke sighed tiredly subsequently taking a seat opposite of the pinkette and began staring into the distant space. Sakura silently sighed as well knowing how heartbreaking it must get to have disappointed teachers leaving one after another.
"Sa-chan…"
By the cue of his miss, the scarlet butler bowed and left the couple alone without a question.
Sakura allowed herself to approach her depressed husband and with kind hands she held those bigger, rougher palms that always have a lingering scent of dough. She kissed one of them that she can manage to hold it with both of hers before she comes to smile at the man she loves so much.
Above all else, she loved that disappointed expression that makes him even cuter.
The raven smiled with arched brows; a look that portrays his helplessness when it comes to his beloved wife. She is like an angel who could melt away all of his troubles.
"I'm such a failure aren't I, Sakura-chan?" he said smiling sarcastically.
"Um hmm." She nodded to his surprise.
"…"
The raven died silent not knowing what to say next. He couldn't defend himself of the truth that is. But then,
"Are you going to quit as well?" the Haruno female asked in an endearing way.
"…U-Uh…N-No…No of course not." The Uchiha voiced determinedly. "Why are you asking in such a way I would…?" curious to his wife's inner thoughts.
She shrugged her shoulders,
"I thought you would."
"I can't give up now, can I?" raising a dark brow.
Listening to his words from the voice she loved so much made her heart flutter wonderfully, despite of his age, Sasuke is still the boy she loves most; Sakura could not help but to lean forward and allowed herself to fall into the arms of her lover. His larger build and long arms that received her are the warmest in her entire universe.
"Carry me, Sasuke-kun…" she said whisperingly and without a word, she could feel the lightweight going against gravity as she is being lifted from the ground;
She felt lighter as if she is floating in midair when it was all Sasuke's doing. Only he could give her a feeling of fantasy like she could right now and without permission, Sasuke took them on a stroll around.
It's exceptionally quiet so much that it is peaceful suiting for a whispering conversation for the two meanwhile enjoying each other's company.
"Tell me Sasuke-kun… Why are you determined to get a driving license?" she asked letting her head rest on the male's chest.
Standing there, holding that delicate female, Sasuke stood facing the afternoon in silence. He let his head rest on the rosette's he adore dearly with a smile that he could hardly reject from the happiness that he was cared for.
He was glad that she asked and he was glad she isn't giving up on him. He knows.
"I want to…" he replied shortly;
An insufficient answer to satisfy the pinkette's curiosity.
"I want to learn something new, hoping…I could be a better man?" he gazed into his wife's beautiful listening emeralds. "Well…we can travel to somewhere further than a bicycle could take us. We can go on a car ride with Phil too."
"Phil?" the rosette perked interestingly.
"Yeah. It'll feel like family. Y-You know…the ones in…um…advertisements…you know…" the raven shyly tried to express his thoughts and earned the females giggles in return.
Sakura giggled and laughed endlessly holding her cheeks that bloomed rosy then extended her arms out to wrap them around her husband's neck.
"Sasuke-kun! Oh, Sasuke-kun!" she exclaimed excitedly then abruptly kissed him deeply on the cheek.
The Uchiha turned to stare at her with perplexed expressions and he continued at it staring at the brilliance of her smile.
"Please do Sasuke-kun. Please make it happen."
Lowering his eyes in gentlest manner, the male smiled pleasantly; he is pleased to be supported by the person he loved most. This is what it means by sharing a life with a partner; be it happiness or the other, it's the moment that matters. It's the imperfections that make life worth cherishing.
That is perfection.
Aa…Today is such a sunny day, Sasuke thought delightfully referring to the sky. And that's not just it when Sakura could steal a kiss on his lips without warning,
"You're wonderful. The most," whispered in his ears.
Indeed, it is sunny…
"By the way," Sakura just isn't finished. "Since when you and Phil became best of friends I thought the both of you disagree with each other?"
The Haruno matriarch is nothing less a sharp woman. Sasuke smirked. Since she cared to ask in such a manner he could have some fun teasing his wife once a while.
"Hmm…I wonder…"
She playfully hit his chest when he refused to be straightforward.
"Tell me."
Sasuke smiled at her authoritative nature and currently she thinks she can win things her way by putting up an adorable pout before him. Sorry but that isn't going to work too effectively.
"Alright. Kiss me then," he learned how to be cheeky.
"Why?" she shrilled.
"Oh, I remember clearly that someone taught me the PROPER way to make requests and you are requesting for an answer, my dear."
The petite female was seen mumbling under her breath when she was forced on by her own words.
"Hmph…I am not going to teach you anything next time…," inaudibly but clear enough for the raven to pick up.
"Sorry my love but you're stuck with me for life and that will be plenty of time for me to learn something."
"…" she pouted. "I hate you…"
"I love you…And you love me."
He smirked after leaving a satisfied remark to win it all not when he noticed the abrupt silence his wife has. She began staring at him intensely with questionable eyes before she realized she had done too much and intentionally hid away by leaning against his neck.
Her caressing of her small hand against his collarbone is gentle and loving. He caught her wandering hand, held it and kissed it; both palm and back then each of her fingers so petite.
"What's wrong?" he had to ask.
The pinkette withheld her words shortly before she decided to speak her mind of worry,
"I love your determination but… Call me selfish but I cannot ideate that you might leave for somewhere far without me. It's as if I couldn't catch up…"
Her husband smiled to himself and at the fact that she had silly thoughts but he forgave it when it was natural for his partner to be. He understood that she wished to share most of everything with him and everything that is part of him because…both of them…have limitations that others don't. Both in their own ways are special and they fear for what they lack. So…he knows what she is worried of when he too had worries he didn't try mentioning.
Sasuke didn't immediately object her claim. He waited a while, dragged that pause before he finally assure her that she was wrong and when he did, he promised to make it clear so she wouldn't doubt again the next time that worry surfaces.
"One of us has to move forward and I rather choose that be me. Reason being that I am a man and other than that, I have the ability to carry you, take you with me…just like this in my arms…I will bring you together."
He said with a voice full of being a maturing man.
"That is if you let me."
He watched her lips part speechlessly at his words; she must be taken aback at his attitude brimming with something new she sees in him. Then she smiled and fumbled into his chest.
"Take me. Take me, Sasuke-kun. Wherever. Whenever. I'll follow as long as you're willing to take me."
Her adorableness, her wonderfulness and her honesty is what makes her bloom more beautiful every single day. She is beautiful. She is very beautiful. So beautiful that he hardly resists her; take those lips so rosy and that it tastes sugary sweet from the confection she consumed.
Then broke apart for a while to gaze at each other and one more time they indulged into each other's burning love. It's beautiful, simply beautiful; to have her, have him and there is nothing like this in the world could be better than this.
"I love you…" in the littlest of audibleness, she whispered her honesty.
Her husband smiled widely with lifted flushed cheeks and shy behavior; he liked the sensation how he was confessed to and the emotions that were light and when his heart pounded wildly.
"Did you say something?" he learned how to get cheeky with her.
"N-Nothing…" she denied in happiness.
"Liar…" he teased.
"It's you who's lying. You heard me!" she squealed.
"Oh, I did. A squeaking mouse that is."
"Why you—"
She had no means to continue fighting for a stand when the pinkette's short eyebrows began to knit displeasingly at the conversation on the phone she's at. Surely it's about work, the raven man who carries his busy wife spoke at heart.
Sasuke disliked it when it comes to those interruptive devices; one phone call and it tears them apart for the rest of the day and probably, for days.
"Alright. I'll see you in an hour."
End the conversation on the phone she gazed into the disapproval in her husband's obsidian eyes. There is nothing she could do but to silently ignore them for there were no words that could defend herself from the guilt of leaving him.
He didn't knit his eyebrows, he didn't purse his lips and he didn't complain. All he did was to stare at view of his beautiful wife. Then finally said,
"I'll see you when I do."
And kissed the rosy cheek of the busy woman.
It was unexpected but it drew the most wonderful feeling in the petite female's heart. The sense of having faith is overwhelming; the most powerful magic of all. He trusts her. He lets her does her best. Most of all, he waits for her. It is all…
All for their love he dearly embraced.
Taking flight into the skies and disappearing into the distance, Sasuke stood on hilly grounds as he continuously stared into the emptiness of the afternoon day. His hands in his pockets relieved of everything and anything;
There was no weight to carry, there was no Sakura to embrace and the only thing left is a responsibility to wait. As her husband, this is the only thing he could do for her.
Witnessing the pinkette's departure on the Haruno family's private helicopter his heart never fail to twitch and his insides grow queasy. It is an obvious sense of missing and jealousy that work got the best of him; he has been utterly defeated by her busy schedule. This is what it means to marry her.
It's alright.
He smiled to himself when he has come to an agreement with fate; it is his destiny to meet Haruno Sakura and that his life will revolve completely all around her. This will last a lifetime.
He chuckled to himself this time learning the better fact about himself. He is not fighting it but loving it more and more. Then he faced the sky once more, snorted towards it and starts to believe that he is the happiest man.
Being here…is happiness.
Satisfied with the things around him, the Uchiha raven decided that it was time to head back to the shop. After all it was later than he promised to and Kiba is bound to nag his ears off.
"I'm back!" quickly removed his jacket the raven hung it up and slipped into his usual apron. "Ah, Phil. You're back?"
He was surprised by the little boy's arrival during this hour of day. He must have finished private tutors early and he must have insisted that he is allowed to travel to Brown's all the way from the Haruno mansion. Sweet little guy isn't he?
Sasuke took the initiative to ruffle the young raven's hair, messing it like how Uncle Brown always does and Phil snarled angrily at it. So this is how it feels to be a parent. It's awesome with the sense of having meaning to protect the younger while feeling wiser.
Speaking about Uncle Brown he's nowhere around the shop not even in the kitchen or upstairs resting in his favourite armchair that is completely worn out. That stubborn old man was determined that he keep it as an old memento that it's part of the shop.
Since he has made up his mind, it's useless to pursue convincing him to get rid of it when Sasuke once planned to present him a new one. Guess it would be just a passing thought.
"Kiba. Uncle's not back yet?" his hands began working on cookie dough while speaking to his friend.
The guy shook his head,
"Nope. I haven't seen him since the moment I began work. He should be at his the usual coffee shop or the paper stand." The male answered casually. "Why? You sound worried for some reason." The male made a curious look.
"Erm…N-Nothing…I was just asking," the raven countered.
Kiba shrugged his shoulders and said nothing next. Then it wasn't too long when the shop's phone began ringing at the counter that was when Phil came running into the kitchen.
"Sasuke-nii! Phone! Phone!"
The little boy is exceptionally adorable when he acts his age along with his innocence. Sasuke smilingly thank the boy and was off to retrieve the phone call that was threatening to end.
"Good afternoon, Brown's Panya!" Sasuke greeted in friendly manner. However it wasn't for long that he gasped and he began panicking. "A-Alright. I will be there immediately."
By the way the raven reacted Kiba had a clue that something bad is definitely up. Quickly he cleaned his hands, shut the back door and readied himself to leave with the panicking raven.
"What's up this time?" sarcastically.
"Uncle Brown's at police headquarters."
The boys took a cab and there wasn't a single word coming from either one of them throughout the whole journey. Phil isn't someone who would initiate anything when all he did was sit in between the adults and knowing this isn't the time to complain about public transport.
Things should be fine the Inuzuka male thought at heart then glanced over to the Uchiha beside him. Sasuke is worried; not that he could blame the guy for overreacting. It's natural and Uncle Brown certainly is a lucky man to have a child like the guy.
Kiba smiled at heart realizing that he is getting sentimental before he gazes shifted over to the passing view outside.
Their journey came to an end very soon despite the distance. Perhaps it was the fact that they were too occupied by their own individual thoughts. Sasuke paid no attention to any other thing else except he carried Phil in his arms and made haste into the police headquarters the moment they arrived. Kiba had to give chase from behind.
"Uncle!"
The Inuzuka heard his raven pal called out loudly to the man who sits across the room doing his best to deal with a police officer. Uncle Brown reactively turned and wore a surprised facial expression. The boys immediately rushed over to his side.
"Boys! Why are all of you here?! What about the shop?" It is amazing that the old man had time to worry about Brown's than his own situation.
"That should be us asking, Uncle. What are you doing here?" Sasuke asked in raised voice.
"I would like to know that too!" Uncle Brown replied in similar manner. "I was on the way back to the shop from tea and Mr. Officer here had me taken in! How outrageous!" Both Kiba and Sasuke exchanged clueless gazes at each other.
"Um, sir…It was you—"
"Don't say another word sonny. Why would a good citizen like me who timely pays his taxes and follows the rules would be taken to the police headquarters?!" the elderly man raged before the young police officer could speak.
"Sir, please calm down. It was actually—"
"I am calm! I seriously have no idea what the police are doing these days!" Uncle Brown went on causing everyone else to turn around staring. It's pretty embarrassing and Kiba decided to step in.
"Alright, alright, Uncle Brown why don't we have some fresh air to calm down a bit. It's pointless to fret over those youngsters and their job," taking the angry man away. The Inuzuka is pretty handy when it comes down to persuading the elderly.
"Sorry, officer. My old man can be a handful when he nags," Sasuke apologized.
"It's okay. That shows he's a healthy individual. You are his son I presume?" asks the officer.
"Yes I am," Sasuke nodded in admittance. "I am sure my old man isn't someone to cause trouble but…what offence has he committed, officer?"
"Oh, there isn't. Mr. Brown came to me asking for directions during my patrol." Listening to that, Sasuke was relieved of his worries at first. "Mr. Brown could not remember where to return to that moment until just a while ago."
The raven held his tongue in that instance. He didn't want to make any unnecessary assumptions to what he just heard. But there is a possibility that…
"Where was he during that time?" he quickly asked but it wasn't anything out of the ordinary route. It was then his heart started to pound uneasily as he listened to the officer's explanation.
"Therefore, I decided to take Mr. Brown to headquarters to be safe."
Sasuke nodded to indicate that he was listening and grateful to the considerate man. If it wasn't for the police officer who knows what might happen to Uncle Brown when he is…
He couldn't say it. Sasuke couldn't bear to accept that something is happening to his old man and he chose to keep quiet while holding the little boy in his arms. He felt insecure, afraid…
Perhaps…perhaps…the police officer might be lying?
Yeah. This young officer could be fabricating a lie to smoothen out his mistakes by putting the blame onto Uncle Brown. That could have been.
The Uchiha male straightened up, smiled a little towards the policeman,
"Thank you for all you've done, officer," he thanked then proceeded to signing a few documents before leaving; out of this building which he suddenly despise much.
He gazed at his old man; looking at the smiling face and listening to that senile chuckle allowed the Uchiha raven to sigh in relief a bit. This is the usual Uncle Brown and that is unchanging, he assured himself at heart. And the man is doing everything like usual, there is nothing extraordinary!
Yes, that officer is lying.
"Uncle."
Sasuke called out to the elderly on purpose and the man turned.
"Yes my boy?"
The way he answers rhythmically, the way he gazes and how he slightly tilts his head in habit, nothing is missing within those gestures. Uncle Brown is healthy and sound! It's a relief however it didn't make the Uchiha male any happier.
"I…I was just wondering if we should all go out for dinner instead of taking the hassle to cook tonight."
And the idea was agreeable, everyone did. Sasuke once again stared at the smiles of his old man, listen to that endless chuckling and watched his back. Despite his age, Uncle Brown still bore that broad back now a little hunched but still retains a good posture. Moreover, that wrinkled big hands and the size of those feet as he paced his way anywhere. There is no other man would find it difficult buying a new pair of shoes.
Sasuke find himself smiling alone; it's silly to be admiring someone from one's back. The feeling is stronger so does its fear; the raven stopped at his feet and he began to fear that growing distance. Uncle Brown is walking further…so much further ahead of him as if…
He's leaving everything behind.
In silence, the Uchiha he didn't know what he to do but helplessly stared and stayed behind, he allowed the distance to grow.
.
.
Sa...su…ni…
Sa…suke..ni…
Sasuke-nii!
In that instant, the Uchiha raven shot up being wide awake. He guiltily realized he had fallen fast asleep at the counter. Another peaceful afternoon, he identifies groggily and customers don't seem to drop by too frequently these days.
A new bakery had opened somewhere perhaps?
Whatever it is, Sasuke doesn't feel like thinking let alone care about anything else. He is just too tired from driving class this morning and it wasn't any better. Moreover, he has no means of being active not when his certain someone is absent; days as expected and counting too. It's not something he would guess still…he never stopped asking himself:
When is Sakura going to come home?
She hasn't even called once since she left and whosoever she left on an urgent basis for is more important than him? He, her husband is only a man in waiting? Pfft. Well…he is. However, he isn't as lonely as he could be in the past when he suddenly noticed that Phil is staring.
Piercing blue eyes which gleam with curiosity, the young man quietly stares at him. Sasuke recalled the little voice which woke him up from his slumber; confidently he knew it was Phil's. It's a cute thing. Smiling, the raven reached out to ruffle the little boy's dark hair. He just loved that identical dark hair.
And the boy would fight away his touches, wear a frown and pout frustratingly.
Oh, another adorable thing about the little guy is that he has a sweet tooth. He loves cookies of all sorts and cakes which are exceptionally sweet. Lucky him, he gets to eat whatever he sees fit around the shop whenever he likes just because Uncle Brown favours him. A lot!
People are being fooled by that sharp-tongued brat behind that adorableness!
"Hey…" Sasuke intentionally spoke up bluntly towards the boy.
"What?" and Phil isn't being too polite either.
They were both fooling around with each other and they know it.
"Fetch a packet of shortbread over there," Sasuke plays the lazy character.
"Why should I?" the boy refused obey.
"Because I said so."
"And why should I follow orders?"
"Because you're younger. You should listen to your elders."
"I was taught to follow orders if they were of purpose," the younger retorted.
"I am hungry." Sasuke smirked; liking the way all this teasing is going.
"You just ate lunch. So much that you fell asleep."
Sasuke held his tongue when he realized that he is of no match for the raven junior. The little man is too smart to be monopolized. So not cute! But.
It was only a moment after the both of them turned quiet Phil dropped himself off the high stool, pace to and back after retrieving a bag of shortbread from the shelf next to the window. Without a word the little boy placed it onto the counter before helping himself up the stool once again.
That…was unexpected.
The Uchiha froze a bit. He couldn't manage another word when all he could was to stare surprisingly and experience this amazingness that bud inside of him. It wasn't any sort of superiority or satisfaction. It was tasty sweetness. Phil is very sweet.
"What?" the boy knitted his eyebrows when he began to feel embarrassed over his deed.
He knows he is being a good boy.
"Say Phil," Sasuke began as he leaned forward. "Now I really wanted a baby boy like you who is naughty and sweet." He etched a smile at the end of his sentence that made the boy's cheeks bloomed rosy.
"I…I am not naughty!" Phil fought. He tried to hide by snatching away the bag of shortbread and did his best to open it.
It's a difficult task for someone as small as him yet he was too stubborn to allow any assistance.
"Poor shortbread. They are breaking up before you could open it," Sasuke teased on purpose.
"I can! I need scissors. Give me a pair of scissors." Phil insisted.
"Nope. Scissors aren't for kids. Come on, let me open it."
"No. I am going to!"
Sasuke sighed tiredly. He just couldn't catch up with the boy and his perpetual stubbornness that had pieces of innocent shortbread turning into crumbs.
"Nghh!" Phil tries hard to tear the bag open from its similarly stubborn seal while Sasuke watched.
"Nnnnggghhh!"
Good now he is trying harder than usual. Sasuke continues to watch pleasurably; he planned not to interfere until that little guy gives in, it is only a matter of time that is.
DING DING!
After hours of waiting and patience, a customer has arrived. Finally!
The Uchiha quickly adjusted his wrinkled apron from lying around in lazy positions he stood up with his back straight and expressed himself politely towards the woman who entered.
She smiled lightly then paced around to intake whatever the shop has to offer in hopes to her liking. Unfortunately none of the items around seemed to capture her interest before she walk straight towards the counter, surprisingly. She posed to be more interested initiating a conversation with the Uchiha than the goods in the store; it was clearly written in her eager eyes and hesitating lips. So much that she doesn't notice if Phil was around.
"Good afternoon, madam. Is there anything you wish to order?" Ah, yes. Request orders; Sasuke almost forgot about them from the drowsiness after an afternoon nap.
"Erm…Actually I—"
"Hnnnggggaahhh!"
POP!
Dear oh dear. Crumbs were sent flying everywhere; on the floor, the counter and even dirtying the dress of the customer. PHIL!
"I am so sorry madam. I am so sorry." Sasuke immediately apologized. "Phil apologize, quick."
"This is your son?"
The woman's expression brightened in obviousness that she finally realized the Phil's existence. She was more pleased at the idea she mindlessly concluded about the boy and reached out to him.
"Don't touch me!"
Phil shrieked rudely; he's not a people person and he hates getting in contact with a stranger out of the blue. It sent him running away and hiding as anticipated; Sasuke reassured the boy behind him and apologized to the woman who was immediately displeased by the act.
"How impudent! Does the boy have no manners? Didn't you teach him?" the woman's deep black eyes were flaring as she scolded angrily.
Despite her age in late forties she has a decent outlook of a well groomed individual; more to a wealthier kind. It shows from how she matched her dark dress with an expensive coat of the latest fashion of the season adorned with jewelries and long jet black hair curled to fashion. In addition to the way she stressed on proper manners proves of her higher social status.
This is dull. It is troublesome work to deal with customers that pops in and start showing off their greater being in a small old bakery. It is a waste of time and breath. Whatever it is, the only thing to do is apologize. Sasuke lowered his head.
"I am terribly sorry for my incapability."
"You're not a single individual now. You've got to think of how to become a better parent than just put him here and he'll start learning the wrong things from the wrong people!"
Sasuke lifted his head. He wasn't pleased with what he heard. If it wasn't for this place and its people, he wouldn't have lived and married and be the gentle man as he had grown to be!
"Please show some respect to this place and its people in spite how smelly and old it is."
Like a man, his fist is gripped and his voice firmly defended what he loved. So what if she is some wealthy woman, she had no right to sully the shop Uncle Brown had made. He is angry and he disliked it no matter how many times he had experienced it.
Unexpectedly, the woman chuckled as if he had done something that amused her and smiled. It was a kind and sweet smile she drew upon.
"I am glad…" she uttered. "I am glad you managed to grow up and grown to be such a wonderful man…"
Sasuke was rooted on the spot listening to her. On top of it, her eyes had hints of tears as she spoke. It was…weird of her to grow gentler and affectionate towards him all so suddenly from anger. Moreover, the things she said…
"I'm sorry madam…?" he wasn't too sure of himself. "H-Have we met before somewhere?"
The woman was honest with her expressions when she didn't bother to hide the sadness that grew over her then restraining it back and replacing it with an expression-less face. Though she smiled it was still drawn out of the sadness she stored at heart.
"I guess this is normal…," muttering audibly to herself. Then she began gazing around as if she was searching for something. "You're alone?" she asked.
Nodding,
"Currently, yes. The others went out on errands," Sasuke realized he was exceptionally formal that moment.
"Your brother. Where's your older brother?"
That, caught him off guard. He stunned a while, he anticipated no question of that sort coming from the woman; a stranger.
"M-My brother?" Disbelievingly. "How do you know I have an older brother?"
There is no way a common stranger would have detailed knowledge about his profile. Not when Itachi hasn't been present around for decades, not too often. Many in the neighbourhood don't seem to know his existence either so why this woman?
The glitter in her eyes proved how confident she was to her question that it's scary and how uncanny she was to grow saddened most of the time and heavily sighing.
"Have you really forgotten about me…Sasuke?"
He is speechless; shocked beyond words that could describe how surprised he could be to hear his name spewed flawlessly from the lips of the woman he had no recognition of. To him, she is a stranger, a customer. But…what else is she to him?
She showed many of her expressions a stranger would not and her speeches were not meant for someone unknown and she clearly knows the existence of Itachi. Judging by her physique; that dark hair and eyes…
"You…," his words hung in hesitance, no, he dared not digest the idea that struck him. The possibility;
It couldn't be…
No.
It has been too long. Too long!
"I am—"
BANG!
The two stunned at the sound of the door that burst open by Kiba's deed. It wasn't intentionally when the Inuzuka's pale face and exhausted panting showed how he didn't come back without urgency.
"Sasu…pant…ke…Uncle…pant…Uncle Brown…pant…is he back?!" doing his best to speak while trying to catch his breath.
The Uchiha needn't ask further when he already headed for the door carrying Phil with him.
"Weren't you with him?!"
"I was! We were crossing the street but then the opposite crowd separated us. I held his hand. I really did!" Kiba gritted his teeth being stressed and worried and feeling all guilty inside.
Closing his eyes shortly, the raven had to calm down; took a breath, he came to his senses. Hugged the Inuzuka; tell him that things are going to be alright,
"Come on. We've got to find him."
Kiba nodded. Sasuke's right; this is no time to be blaming or regretting when their old man is wandering aimlessly in the streets, surrounded by strangers and sinking in the pool cluelessness.
Uncle Brown's forgetfulness is getting worse these days that it became a worrisome issue to the boys.
"Sasuke!" the woman called.
Ah. The raven looked over his shoulder to find the woman staring at him with questioning onyxes. He didn't bother to show any concern, moreover, she isn't important to be kept in mind. On the other hand, he disliked how intimate she tries to address him with his name.
She is no one.
They have no relation.
"Sorry madam. We're closed."
He didn't spare her another second of his gaze after he told her off coldly, leaving the speechless woman all by herself in the shop.
.
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Sasuke's Point of View
.
I hear it.
Loudly I can listen to that galloping heart of mine beat in my ears as if it is the loudest I can hear.
I am worried there is no doubt about it and how I can grow agitated the more when the sun began to take a different colour. The setting sun is not what I am concerned but how much time has passed since I brought myself running everywhere I see a possibility of Uncle Brown's missing.
It has been hours of searching yet I don't see any familiar old man.
I am not sure about Kiba's part but I doubt he had any luck yet. My phone has been silent since we agreed to diversify our search. I had my fingers crossed and hope that luck is with him as much as with me. But no matter, I wish I am the one who finds that lost old man.
After all, I am his son.
And I felt guilty about Phil; selfishly bringing him with me without informing the House. I am braced for a lecture by his caretakers for exposing him into the outside without permission and having him to endure tiredness and hunger.
Both Phil and I are hungry and exhausted from all that searching and running and how the day is colder from the dimming sunlight. Resting in my arms, Phil was quiet for quite some time; he isn't as energetically angry like his usual self and began shivering. That was when I finally realized that I have been too selfish; occupying my mind with worry about Uncle Brown alone.
"Sorry Phil. Let's get something to eat first shall we?"
The boy nodded shortly and I ran to the nearest shop I could find what we need: A place where we were served with hot tea and porridge. Some warm and soft food is good for the body in the chilly weather from the late day.
Kiba quickly managed to come by shortly after I informed him. He seemed extremely out of character with the eyes emitting with failure and guilt. The guy is a soft man not as soft as me but still he cares a lot for a person when he has the heart to it.
I reassured him that it was none of his fault to begin with yet he was too stubborn to not stop from taking the blame and that he was careless. He even shed a tear from the fear he brought himself of negative possibilities that might happen to Uncle Brown.
Speechless, I cannot say that my mind didn't take part in such thoughts previously.
We were both worried and stressed at the same time; there is nothing we could do to help the feeling that we all love that old man that we grow too desperate to think. Because we knew…
That Uncle Brown is sick.
For past days and just between the both of us; Kiba and I noticed Uncle Brown's abrupt changes.
It wasn't just a spectacle he accidently misplaced when it was only a second he placed onto the table before him. It wasn't only that he couldn't remember his way back to the shop. It has drawn to the extent that he had to think who the people around him are.
Including Kiba and I.
I can never forget the fear that rushed into my veins the moment I was forgotten by my own father. Uncle Brown could not recognize me in that instant until the next he did. That interval of dismissal was scary.
It was terrifying!
I almost cried during that struck moment and recalling it would almost make me do the same now. But I have to stay strong despite I understood how weak I may be; without Sakura-chan by my side, I have lost my own confidence. Why?
Why must this happen when she is not by me?
All this is too abrupt for me and Kiba to take it in. We never anticipated something as cruel as this. I understand it's an unstoppable course of human nature, however…this…is too soon. Too abrupt!
I never wanted to believe this. I never wanted to acknowledge the fact that my old man would…
I cannot say it.
My heart is heavy, my throat grew a lump and I have no appetite, so does the male that sits on the opposite. Kiba only knew how to sulk than touch his food. That is when I realized we cannot be this way. Quickly I spoke up,
"Kiba."
Calling over to the male that snapped back to reality.
"Sorry…"
The guy was surprised to hear me, I too wasn't sure why I apologized but then I realized indeed all this happened because of me. I was a coward that I didn't accept reality as it is. I kept quiet about Uncle Brown's changes since the day we were at police headquarters but I never expect him to change so much within a short span of time.
I guess…time for elderly people doesn't wait for anyone either. They just…go…
"I messed it up again. I dragged you into stuff you shouldn't be in—"
"Quit yapping nonsense. You think this is going to make me feel any better? Or is it you're feeling horrible that you have to speak up a little?!"
Kiba angrily snarled back at me much to my surprise. But that should have been since I always act pathetically from time to time.
"Sorry…" Yeah, I am who I am. Not confident and always put the blame onto myself.
But then the Inuzuka sighed loudly, scratched the back of his head in frustration,
"Sorry. Sorry. Sorry. I am so out of my own composure. I am…gosh…sorry…" he apologized in return. I didn't blame him for snapping. There is no one to blame for this; just had to feel guilty over Uncle Brown.
We both fell into our own silence despite the shop is busy and noisy during the peak hours of a cold evening. It is pretty warm and steamy in here which makes it relaxing after a stressed day. This isn't the end of it though and we just have to find that old man of mine no matter what and we didn't think that day has approached its final hour before it completely darkens.
I am worried and I am prepared to call the House to take Phil home first.
"I don't want to go to the mansion!" the young boy fought my decision. "I don't want to be alone!"
My heart softened at the end of his honesty. To think I was trying hard to do the best for him instead I failed to read his feelings. Somewhere within me was glad that Phil said it; that allows me to hold on to my selfishness and take him wherever as I please. His company is something precious to me now.
I am scared. Honestly, I am...
Holding Phil close to me as possible, I continued had the duty continuing the search for my old man. This time Kiba joined me; the both of us seemed too tired to think of dividing our search another time and that we don't seem to be having any success in it. Could two be better than one?
I am not sure.
If we have some sort of clue… If we could just find a hint as we blindly asked everyone we see possibility yet there was none so far. No one in the city just seemed to recognize Uncle Brown despite how many customers we the shop gets. It's as if luck is failing us…
But. But! It was just for that bit of luck.
"Sasuke! Is that—?!" Kiba pointed out into the distance, directing my attention.
Without second thoughts, I dashed across the street ignoring the fact it was the evening rush hour; again, I selfishly took Phil with me. I was lucky that nothing happened to us as I successfully made onto the other side. I could see Kiba's heart leap out of his chest and thanked that we were alright. I am stupid. The stupidest. However, I cannot control my senses from not moving closer towards that recognizable man.
No. I am sure that it is Uncle Brown!
Sitting on the bench at the park situated in the middle of the city, that lonely old man indeed is the man I have been searching for. I wanted to cry tears of joy but there was none to shed so all I could do is hurry forward and stood before him.
Pant. Pant. Pant.
They were pants of relief as I took the time to catch my breath;
My search is over and I am too thankful to say anything but stare at the sleeping old man, all by himself in this old park of withered trees, rusted bench and an untidy pavement covered in fallen autumn leaves.
"Uncle…Uncle…Uncle! Uncle! UNCLE!" I called and hoping he would wake up as I shook him.
I must say my heart again raced in fear to the unnecessary thoughts that hailed my mind as I watched the old man's closed eyes and touched his very cold hand. He must be out here for a long time to be freezing like this.
"Huh…"
"Uncle!"
Finally, my tears…They fell freely down my cheeks as I hugged the old man. I was terribly scared and his wake relieved so much. Tearing him apart from me, I quickly set Phil onto his feet and removed my jacket to warm the man.
Uncle Brown didn't say a word until I was done then he looked at me firstly and said,
"Oh, thank you young man, it is cold these days but wouldn't you catch a cold giving me this?"
Stunned.
I didn't expect for some stranger's reaction to be diverted to me the first thing I found him. I was happy to see him but I didn't manage to receive the same. This is the saddest moment I am undergoing and it isn't the first.
I don't want to believe this…
Not from the father I love.
"Uncle," I gritted my teeth in frustration as I touched the man's arm. "What are you doing here all by yourself? Do you know how worried we were when you disappeared?"
"Disappear? I didn't disappear," said Uncle Brown. "I am waiting for mother and brother. They told me to not leave until they come. We are going to cross the border and live a better life!"
Speechless.
My mind froze; the ability to respond is leaving me.
But in a moment I was able to understand after listening the old man's past which he told me over alcohol one night up on the usual rooftop; it was war that sent his family running and he was the only one who managed to cross and ended up in these lands. A sad history from decades ago yet it was never forgotten in this man's heart.
He is alone…
How foolish I am to realize that Uncle Brown is the loneliest among us!
I was never considerate. I didn't bother to care more about this man whose past he kept clinging onto. He was quiet about his desires, dreams…but set me above everything else.
I can't believe I grew up to be an overly pampered child, powerless to actually return his kindness. I am too naïve to do anything!
"Uncle…It's getting late…Let's go home…" I am fighting away the lump in my throat as I tried to speak properly.
The man looked at me in a stranger's gaze.
"Hello, boy. My, you're right it is getting late. But…I am sorry I don't think I can go home. You see…I am getting old and forgetful these days," he made an elderly chuckle. "To where I wonder…Haha!"
It's sad…it's sad to see him change into a different person every single minute!
"That's not funny Uncle Brown!" I stormed angrily. "You're so selfish! You're…pant…you're…pant…sniff…ugh…ch!"
This is unfair!
This is so unfair!
I don't care if he is staring at me in the most clueless way as I sobbed my heart out. Why must someone as wonderful, kind and gentle as this old man could turn out to be as pitiful?! He's losing his memory at an alarming rate. It was only days since the day I doubted the words of the police officer at headquarters. I didn't want to believe…
I was selfish not to believe. I don't want to. And now…
This man is going to forget a lot of memories…
"Grandpa!" Phil suddenly rushed and plopped onto the old man's lap. "Grandpa! Let's go home!"
"Uh, oh! Phil my boy!"
Like a miracle, Uncle Brown has returned to his old self and smiling like he always does…that it became scary.
"Ah, boys! What are all of you doing here?" he couldn't recall a second earlier and he couldn't tell how worried we were.
I don't plan to say anything more but keep my emotions to myself and act as if nothing happened. The fact about his illness hurt us all including Uncle Brown himself. I don't want the old man to blame himself, therefore, Kiba and I promised to keep the matter to ourselves.
But I still wonder if Uncle Brown knows…
"Hmm? Where am I?" the old man realized at last; gazing around, he couldn't see too clearly of his darkening surroundings and I planned to prevent him from finding out too much.
"Grandpa, let's go home!"
Thanks to Phil, it saved me a bit when my old man is much too drawn to the boy's adorableness especially the way how he was addressed. It's great to see his smile again; loving the nostalgic feeling of having a child around.
For Uncle Brown, I guess I should seriously talk to Sakura-chan about having children.
.
End of Sasuke's Point of View
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Kiba and Sasuke quietly followed behind Uncle Brown as they all made their way back to the shop; kept their eyes closely on the elderly as they watched how animatedly the man chatted with Phil he carries in his arms.
The Uchiha jerked in surprise when the guy next to him patted his stiffened shoulders; Kiba is doing his best as a friend and he is thankful for it.
"What should we do now?" asked the Inuzuka; walking along side without taking his eyes off the man in front.
"I am not sure…" replied the raven.
"Let's take Uncle to the doctor," Kiba said firmly. "I don't think we could handle his condition ourselves any longer. We'll have to leave him to someone else—"
"Kiba—!"
"We're not throwing him away and we're not acting cruelly. It's something we HAVE to do!"
"…" the raven was speechless at first. He sighed. "Alright…"
Kiba understands. He definitely knew what's on the Uchiha's mind; this guy beside him is no coward but the gentlest male whose fear eats him whole and having no confidence to rely on anyone except burden himself with many things. This is the person he is.
"Alright…" agreeing again, the raven nodded.
Yeah…the gentlest.
"Ah, that…," the Inuzuka perked at the sight of someone standing outside of shop as soon as they turned to arrive at Brown's.
A woman and he clearly recognized that she was the person from this afternoon that Sasuke ignored. On the other hand, to his surprise, she does carry a resemblance: the Uchiha's. He didn't dare say anything out of visual assumption but definitely Sasuke thinks the same.
"Sasuke."
Here comes the woman forcing her presence towards the Uchiha who wouldn't want to make any eye contact.
"I am sorry madam but we're closed for today," quickly he made Uncle Brown hurry into the shop.
"Sasuke!"
The woman called out of impatience from the cold shoulder she got given by the raven she tries to approach. However, Sasuke wasn't in the mood to listen and angrily snarled.
"Please madam! We're closed!"
"Stop! Stop calling me madam when I am your mother!"
Kiba's jaw hung in speechlessness; failed at his words while he stared at the two as they glared furiously at one another. Surprisingly, Sasuke was calm and all he knew was anger as he continued to throw daggering glares at the pestering woman.
None of them spoke up yet until the woman sighed. She had eyes telling her not to be overwhelmed by impatience and frustration, therefore, she calmed herself to initiate once more but much to the raven male's stubbornness,
"Sasu—"
"Don't call me that." He gritted his teeth to hold in the tears that threatened him. "I have no mother."
Alright! That's it for this chapter; hope you enjoyed it!
Yeah, busy as always and got little time to update. So, I hope you can give this story a chance and be patient with me. (sorry sorry) I'll try my best to update ASAP!
Anyway, thanks for reading and…
REVIEWS pls! :D