Burn

Failure is only the opportunity to begin again, this time more intelligently.

-Henry Ford

Chapter One

One would think that sleeping for two and a half weeks straight would mean one would be well rested. This was a lie.

The dull beeps from the monitors woke me first. Lazily I lay there, my world coming together painfully slowly. I could smell the antiseptic in the air - the all to clean smell of bleach burning my nose.

I suppose I should be grateful for it.

My arm ached, but in a wholly different way than I was used to in the last few years. The pain was dull - like a muscle protesting movement after a hard workout. In fact, most of my body ached that way. The points of attack I had endured throbbed lazily with the beat of my heart.

It was then the memories came.

Sasuke - his broken face and him threatening to kill himself should Kabuto end me.

Naruto, screaming as he fought Sasuke - and being beaten down in the rain.

Little Sakura, her scared eyes searching mine for reassurance that things would be okay. Would they be okay?

The watch - my uncle's watch. They had my Uncle and wanted to trade me for his safety.

And lastly - Kabuto. His empty eyes and unhinged laugh as he struck me down. My inability to fight back, the sheer hopelessness I felt. I wanted to weep. I couldn't.

I didn't have the energy to be angry at Kabuto right then, though tension did sear through me. The fact that I knew Sasuke was going to abandon his home for a fools dream and I still couldn't stop it? It was all the more worse. I practically helped him out the door!

It was my fault.

My rumination was cut short by the scraping of a chair. I twitched, slowly forcing my eyes open to finding the source of the sound.

Tsunade

The Hokakge herself sat before me - a file in her hand. I could see my name written in clear kanji on the label.

My heart squeezed. Tsunade's eyes glinted in the low light, her brow lowered than I'd even seen before. Never before had I seen her so - angry. Not even when she suspected I was working on a scheme with Jiraiya was she this angry.

"Welcome back. It's been awhile, hasn't it?" She said, not looking away. She flicked the file open.

"You know, your little stint caused quite an upset. You had two Jounin level shinobi help you, and you still came back half dead." She continued dryly. I tried to move my mouth. I couldn't quite get words out yet.

"They said you instructed them to round up the others to make sure they were safe."

I managed an undignified grunt. She didn't even stop as she plowed on. My failures on display like a parade. I felt less than a worm, there stuck in bed and unable to speak for myself.

"Turns out, the students managed. You were able to stop one from being in critical condition, so there's at least that. However, with new intel- what were you doing talking to Kabuto alone?" Tsunade asked sharply

I froze. What - what did that have to do with anything?

It was then Tsunade held up a watch I hadn't even realized she had. Uncle's watch.

Grand.

She must have assumed I went to turn myself in for my Uncle. I never - I wouldn't have. Couldn't have. To do that to Kakashi would have been a betrayal alone, let alone to the village. I wasn't blind in my support of my new home, but I still wouldn't be a turncoat!

"You had to know he was there." She continued.

I licked my lips and managed to muster out, "n-no idea. S-Sasuke needed me. I had to-"

My throat felt like it was on fire. Was it from misuse? Or that I've been out for so long?

"Had to what? Because we found the note demanding you turn yourself in, Just-Tami." She snapped.

"I-I wanted to stop him." I croaked, "it's my fault he - I didn't see the signs soon enough."

It was my responsibility. It was my fault. Sasuke left because I hadn't helped him. I failed him when he needed me. Instead I was busy flirting with my Darling while he…. I thought he needed space. I didn't think he'd just leave.

Tsunade pressed her lips into a fine line as she studied me. Her brow was low. She closed the file and set it away on the bedside table. She watched me for a second.

"You carry secrets. Secrets Orochimaru knows that you have. It might not be as many as what your friend has-"

I jerked back at that. She knew about Maya? Tsunade sent me a wide grin.

"Yes. I know." She confirmed before pressing on, "you went to confront Sasuke, knowing an enemy was there, who wanted to take you. That was the dumbest thing I think I've heard you do. Did you go to turn yourself in, Tami?"

"No. No, no. I couldn't - I- Sasuke needed me. I-" I continued, trying to get the words out. Uncle would have been angry with me. Kakashi, my Darling, equally as much if not more. I hadn't even thought of it like that!

Tsunade hummed and leaned back in her chair. The severe look on her face passed.

"You're lucky. Ibiki vouched for you. So did Kakashi. Your lover didn't know if you'd trade places with your Uncle, but Ibiki was sure you wouldn't. Inoichi backed him up. I just needed to confirm it." She said, crossing her arms under her chest. She eyed me, almost seeming exasperated. "Next time, let the Anbu do their job if you get their help. They're better equipped. Kabuto did a lot of damage to you and I spent days fixing it. Don't do something stupid again."

"Yes Tsunade-sama." I murmured. I knew very well that it was time to behave myself. Best use the honorifics. Tsunade huffed in amusement. She eyed me quietly.

It was then I started wondering - had they done to Maya what they had done to me? Had Inoichi forced his way through her mind? The young girl might not be able to handle it like I had - the traumas she went through and the fears she dealt with. Had Ibiki terrified her into trying to talk?

Tsunade watched me; it almost felt like she knew my thoughts and worries. Instead of answering them, she waited for the question.

"Is - is Maya..?" I tried. I couldn't verbalize what I wanted very well.

"She's fine. She's living in Jiraiya's home as his long lost daughter. His reputation finally is useful." Tsunade said, her mouth pressing together for a moment to signal her displeasure, "we're honoring your request- for now. But the moment things get out of hand, believe me, we know right where she is every second of the day."

I felt I could breathe a little easier. Maya was safe. Sasuke - well, maybe he was with my Uncle? Maybe the two could talk. Maybe Uncle could get to him where I couldn't. Uncle was, after all, very good at helping angry and bitter children.

"I need to know, now, that you're on our side, Walker. Are you for Konoha? From the sound of things, war is coming. It might be a few years out, but I need to know now. I don't want to have to question you again." Tsunade asked.

I sat there, I barely had to think of the answer.

"Absolutely." I said, my voice strained.

Tsunade sat back. She eyed me for a moment. I couldn't quite catch what flickered through her gaze in these few seconds. But she nodded and got up.

"Your nurse should be by later. Kakashi is on a mission. He should be back soon; he was getting underfoot." Tsunade told me, a small smile flickered to life on her face. She went over to the door and paused, "And before I forget - that scar of yours is gone. Your trouble with jutsus should be over now."

She left shortly after. I let out a long sigh, letting go of the tension I barely realized I held onto. I glanced at my arm for the first time. My blue scar was gone. I had the small scar still, the mark subtly discolored the area. It was a big difference from what I was used to.

I hadn't been able to keep my eyes open for long after that - I then just drifted again.

The next time I awoke to humming. A young woman with auburn hair and a blonde stripe down her center part moved around the room. Her name tag read Inuzuka Reina. She seemed to be checking the machine I must have been hooked up to. I'd rather not know between you and I.

She turned and smiled when she saw my eyes open.

"Oh, he's going to be so happy to see you awake!" Reina said, her amber eyes crinkling with glee. "I had to chase him out a few times after closing. Do you know how hard it is to get him to listen to anyone? It's terrible."

… who? Who was she talking about? I just blinked - I didn't have much energy to reply to respond with. I just wanted sleep.

"No offense, Akino." She added, glancing over to another part of the room. I shifted - sure enough, Akino sat near the window as silent and still as a marble gargoyle perched on a rooftop. Akino just grunted. I couldn't for say where his gaze was, but I was sure it wasn't far from me.

"'Kino?" I managed in my haze.

"Kakashi left him when he went on a mission. It's so sweet. He was really worried about you." She continued on, her smile showing off adorable dimples on her cheeks.

I couldn't do much but humm over that. She seemed like the sweet sort with a temper to boot. I couldn't do much but sit there and just exist. Too tired to move, too awake to sleep. Rather pathetic, really.

"I'm sure he'll be back soon! All the nurses have been going on and on about you two." She continued on as she went about her business. After she checked the paperwork and various machines, she scribbled something down on the clipboard.

"Clucking like hens, I imagine." I commented dryly. My throat felt a little bit better. She giggled and sent me a cheeky grin.

"You got it. There's a nurse who is very jealous. She always thought Kakashi might be….. you know. He's always with that Might Gai." She carried on.

Ah. Poor Gai. Poor Kakashi. They were both very eccentric men in their own right. I was rather sure it was a common misunderstanding.

I let out a rather long and heavy sigh and she laughed again.

"Yeah. But don't you worry; that's why I'm here. I'm the one nurse that doesn't really care." She said brightly.

"Aren't you- forgive me -. I saw you last time taking care of Kakashi?" I said, shifting carefully to look over at her. She grinned and sat down across from me.

"You got it. I'm one of the few nurses that really don't care about his personal life and what he looks like under his mask. And I'm one of the few he doesn't try to be difficult with, at least too badly. He behaves better when you're around." She explained, huffing and waving her hand as she explained. "He requested me specifically years ago when the others got to be a little much. So - we work together. I don't bother him, he doesn't bother me."

I hummed. I really hadn't realized Kakashi was as popular as he was. He was incredibly handsome, even with only a fourth of his face showing. Sarutobi had said Kakashi was - maybe it was his personality that kept most at bay? Or that most women were rather shy? Perhaps a mix of all of it.

Reina sent me another warm smile and stood.

"I'll let you rest. I'm sure you need it after all you've been through. I'll check in on you later." She said before quietly slipping away.

She was sweet. Most women I had met in the village, aside from Kurenai and Tsunade, were rather interesting. It was good to know there were others who were rather tame.

I sighed and lay back. All that I really had right then was memories, regret and Akino to keep me company. I glanced at the Ninken; calling him anything else seemed wrong.

"Quite grand to see you again." I rasped out. I'd rather not lose my sense of humor at this point. It's near all I had.

Akino's mouth twitched. He got up from his spot near the window and came closer.

"Good to see you awake." He replied.

I'm completely honest when I say I hadn't expected that. Akino and I didn't seem to see eye to eye. He was a very stern and serious Summon. I wondered why my Darling left him with me.

"How is your boss?" I asked. I was a little worried for him.

Akino turned his head to look at me. He didn't answer right away.

"You'll see him when he returns." Akino said finally.

Ah. So that's where Akino's kindness ends with me. Fair enough. I lay back and sighed.

Grand.

I couldn't say why Akino wasn't a fan of mine, but it was his own reasons. It wasn't my concern. But I did wonder- why did Kakashi leave Akino instead of Pakkun or the others?

Once again, my questions were left unanswered and I soon slipped back to sleep.

The next time I awoke, I could feel tension in the air. Someone was staring, practically boring a hole into my head with their eyes alone.

My first thought was Tsunade. The next was that Akino was simply tired of his task.

I finally managed to pry an eye open and there before me sat one I never would have guessed.

Gaara.

I nearly jumped, looking at him in alarm. He remained stoic, sitting in the chair across from me, ignoring Akino's presence. The Ninken was closer to me now, his gaze fixed on Gaara. I'd never seen the usually calm and impassive Akino in such a state. I was once again struck by how well and efficiently Kakashi managed his summons.

Gaara blinked. To think I had the newest Kazekage in my humble hospital room.

It took me a near minute to settle back down into my bed, watching him warily.

"Do tell, have you a habit of watching people sleep?" I asked, unable to help myself. He was still staring!

"What's so special about you?" He asked, ignoring my question for his own. I raised my brow, trying to shake the uncomfortable feeling growing at the base of my spine. This boy nearly destroyed Lee! His actions were barbaric and his face showed such malice! And yet - there he sat seemingly bored and innocent.

"I'd like to think it's my charming personality." I said dryly.

He hummed, tilting his head by the barest amount. His eyes narrowed softly and he leaned forward.

"Why aren't you afraid? You were afraid before." He pointed out.

Straight to the point, this one. I rather liked that. No game of intrigue? Rather refreshing.

"You've no plans to kill me. At least yet." I said. I glanced over to Akino and shifted over. "If you'd prefer, you're welcome up here."

Akino paused, his ears flicked. I could see him processing the offer as I kept my haze fixed on Gaara. Surprisingly, Akino took me up on the offer. He graceful leapt into the bed and settled down near my feet. His hackles were no longer raised but Gaara had his full attention.

"Shukaku wants me to kill you." Gaara said finally but leaned back. "I don't want to."

This boy…. He was an odd one. Blunt, matter of fact with life and death. In addition to it, he had love inscribed on his forehead. I'd never seen the like. Then again, I had chosen to use luv as a way to distance myself from people.

Akino stiffened at the confession. It took near everything in me to not place my hand on his back to calm him. He was a proud Ninken. Best to not upset that.

"So I see. Well, I'm glad to hear it. What can I do for you?" I asked. I hoped he'd leave quickly. The boy was a danger - to me, to Akino - probably to the hospital. I'd rather not be here with him but I didn't want him to catch onto that.

"Naruto said you were different. I wish to see this." He said firmly, "he's like me."

I - didn't like that parallel. Naruto was a sweet boy who caused mischief. He didn't kill in cold blood like this child.

"Yes, well, I'm rather boring, Luv. Nothing much to see here." I said, giving him a weak shrug that I instantly regretted. Ow; that hurt.

Gaara's brow lowered in thought as he studied me intently.

"Why do you say this?" He asked finally. Nearly immediately after he asked, a blonde girl swung the door open.

"Gaara! What are you doing here?" She hissed.

It was Temari, his elder sister. She barely paid me any mind as Gaara didn't even bat an eyelash.

"I wanted to meet her." He said flatly.

"You can't just run off while we're on official business." She told him through gritted teeth.

Gaara stared at her for a moment before looking back at me. I raised my hands in mock defeat.

"Duty calls. Politics are not my wheelhouse." I said, rather pleased that it wasn't my forte. Mind, I had tact but some days I had my moments.

Gaara grunted, and stood up. As he did so, both Kankuro and Shikamaru arrived. One seemed put upon, exhausted with the boy's behavior, while the other seemed used to it as it was his brother.

Gaara stood up as Kankuro entered the room.

"Gaara…." Kankuro began and then paused, looking at me. "Hey! You're that girl we helped drag back to here!"

My eyebrows raised further.

What? They dragged me back? To Konoha? Neither Owl nor Anko helped as much as I thought they had.

"Naruto-kun mentioned her." Gaara said.

I paused - how could I-?

Where was Naruto? I had thought maybe he was off on a mission with Kakashi and Sakura but maybe not? Akino sent me a look; it seems I missed some things while I was out.

And it seemed that not only I was affected by Gaara's words. Temari and Kankuro both softened by the slightest amount.

Shikamaru had been standing outside, eyeing me quietly from behind them all.

Gaara looked between us all, and then turned to face me.

"I requested the Hokage assign you to the meetings for the next Chunin Exam. I'll see you then." He said flatly before heading out.

I stared at the boy, dumbfounded. No - no, that was the Kazekage. Slowly, his siblings filed out after him as I sat there trying to piece this together. Apparently Gaara wanted more chats. Grand. I wasn't looking forward to it, truly.

As the sand siblings left, Shikamaru paused. He rubbed the back of his head and slowly came into the room.

He didn't look me in the eye at first.

"Thanks." He said suddenly, "if - if it wasn't for you, Choji might have gotten really hurt."

He stood there for a long minute, mulling over his thoughts. What did he- ah. That was right. Sakura had wanted to go with them. Instead, she went with me and I brought an Anbu and a Tokubetsu Jonin with me.

"I… I jumped head first into retrieving Sasuke and didn't think. My dad-."

I flinched as he mentioned Sasuke. It hurt to hear his name so soon. Shikamaru stopped himself - he seemed lost in his speech.

"Well - you're certainly not the only one who bit off more than you could chew, luv." I told him, my lips twitching. I tried not to linger on the thought. I cleared my throat gently and nodded to him.

Shikamaru looked at me, his mouth pressed together in a firm line. He looked áway and grumbled something under his breath.

"I'm sorry. We tried to get him back but it didn't work." Shikamaru said finally. His fists clenched and he looked over at me, "when Naruto returns, we're gonna try again."

Returns? I glance between Shikamaru and Akino, trying to gain back my bearings. What? Where was Naruto?

Akino was the one to explain it. He shifted on the bed and looked at me.

"He left to train with Jiraiya-sama for a few years." Akino added softly. I grimaced.

Shikamaru shifted uncomfortably. He clearly didn't expect all of this.

"Thank you. I tried too, but -. Well, as you can see, it didn't turn out well enough." I said after a moment. Shikamaru studied me for a second before leaving. I wasn't sure if he was just done with the conversation or if he didn't know what to say.

Naruto left?

I carefully sat back as I mulled that over. He left? I hadn't even known. Akino got up and jerked his head over to the other bedside table.

"He left a plant with you." He said before jumping down to resume his place, guarding me as it seemed.

I finally looked over and saw it. I couldn't believe that I had missed it.

There on the table, a giant fruit basket set. There were a couple of cards and well wishes. Off to the side was a small plant, with a note hanging onto it. Inscribed across the lip of the pot read Mrs. Ikki. I couldn't help but smile. I picked it out first and looked at the small card.

I'll be back soon! Gonna train with Jiraiya-sensei! Get better and we'll go get Sasuke when I get back.

- Naruto

I smiled softly, albeit a little sad. He was gone. I smiled at the little plant - it was so cute. I placed it back down and started looking through what was on the bedside table. The little blue-eyed boy I helped look after had left without me even being awake for it. Naruto was off to train with Jiraya - just like that. It felt a little somber, though I'm sure he was glad to be out training. He always wanted to be impressive. Jiraiya could help with that.

The giant fruit basket was from my Darling. It simply said get well soon. It was cute - and he managed to find a pineapple. I'm rather impressed, personally. I'll need those pineapple chunks soon enough. It was just like him to get something practical and a very lack-luster note. My love was very practical. I hoped to see him soon. I can't imagine the grief I put him through. The grief he went through while waiting for me to wake up. Maybe that was why he put Akino in place to guard me. Perhaps he thought that I'd charm the others to get my own way? That Akino wouldn't be swayed so easily.

There was a card from Kurenai, the absolute gem she is; again, a simple well wish. Gai had left a card as well, however it went into further detail.

Get well soon, Tami-chan! We all are worried about you but I'm sure that your youthful zeal will pull you through!

I am missing my morning running friend.

Might Gai

I smiled softly. He was a sweet man. I really hope that one day he found a sweetheart of his own. He deserved it. Going to the next card it looked like it was a plain one. I picked it up and flipped it open. It was a message from my Darling.

Went on mission. Be back soon. Miss you.

Kakashi

Straight to the point, that one. I smiled softly. I had a feeling he had been wanting to be there when I awoke, but it didn't work out. I wish it had worked out that way but - but I'll see him soon enough. I simply hope that he's being safe out there - I worry.

The last card I reached for I nearly dropped once I picked it up.

Maya.

I flicked it open and scanned it. She wrote to me in English. I clicked my tongue. It was sweet of her to write me, but she shouldn't have put a spotlight on herself. I still felt a little sore from the chat I had with Tsunade.

Hey Tami,

I hope you feel better soon. I'm sorry about what I said before. This is - it's a lot. I miss you! Kakashi has been here like, every day. It's kinda cute. Please, please, please don't make him worry so much.

Talk to you later,

Maya

I felt heavy again as I set down her letter. I - I didn't know how to feel about her being in Konoha now. My first instinct was to try to protect her which backfired on me. I wonder what Kakashi had thought after I tried to guard and protect her like I had, snapping at Jiraiya and saying Kakashi didn't trust me. He's a ninja. He probably trusted me as much as he could. And then he was so sweet to me. I groaned softly and leaned back in the bed.

"Do you ever sit back and wonder if you really know what you're doing?" I asked softly. I didn't expect an answer but Akino seemed to wish to surprise me.

"I don't think anyone knows what they're doing." He said. I couldn't help but crack a smile. Maybe I wasn't in Akino's burn list after all? Or maybe I completely misread him. I really couldn't say.

My first true visitor wasn't one I expected. It was Asuma who strolled in, his hands in his pockets.

He sent me a small grin and came over and sat down.

"This seat taken?" He asked.

"All yours. Though I'd caution you - rather sure the nurses won't like it if you walk off with it." I said. He scoffed and leaned back.

"Well, at least you're joking. I was concerned for nothing." He said.

My lips twitched. I tried not to think of why he'd be concerned. A certain stubborn boy, perhaps?

"Wanted to thank you. Your actions helped save Choji. Don't know what would have happened if you weren't involved." He said.

"That wasn't me. I had the misfortune of finding my near death." I said dryly. Asuma scoffed.

"You're too stubborn to die." He said and it was my turn to scoff at him.

"Yes, well - he nearly went for it." I grumbled, "had… Sasuke threatened to take his own life if…."

Asuma hummed knowingly. He eyed me and let out a small sigh.

"Maybe there's hope, huh?" He tried.

I breathed out slowly; maybe? Was there a chance we could convince Sasuke to return?

"I… I don't know. He's so angry with his brother, I think he'd do near anything to get him." I said finally.

It was all Uchiha Itachi's fault. It was his fault Sasuke's will crumbled like it had! That little weasel showed up and taunted a little boy, telling him he wasn't strong enough! He was a child! My fists clenched. He would pay. I wasn't feeling too charitable to that vermin. Testing his strength, indeed!

Asuma grunted. His hand went for his pocket and suddenly he dropped it and leaned back in the chair.

Usually, he smoked so I figured that was it - however his pocket was empty. It clearly didn't hold his usual brand of cigarettes.

I raised my eyebrows.

"Giving up smoking, are we?" I asked him. He stared at me, his mouth falling open just a little.

"Uh… how?" He asked.

I waved my hand. Not a big deduction there.

He looked away and cleared his throat.

"Thought it might be a good idea. I need to be around for - for my nephew." He finally explained. I hummed. I did detest smoking, and I knew how hard it was to quit. It was admirable Asuma was trying.

"And how is that going?" I asked. He sent me a sour look.

Ah.

That well?

"Do you mind if I…?"

"You have advice on this?" He asked, his tone incredulous. I sent him a small shrug.

"A vat of information am I. Besides, my cousin Charles-" I froze.

I wasn't supposed to remember my past. I looked up at him, and he didn't look at all surprised.

"I know you and my dad had some agreement going on. I don't really care." He said, "he wouldn't have allowed you to stay if you were a threat. And even if he did, Ibiki-san clearly knows. He would have killed you by now if you were a threat to the village."

I sent him a pointed look. He knew? This entire time, he just knew? How many people just knew? Mind, I wasn't trying to out fox any of them, let alone continue to trick them - but if Asuma knew and we were distant friends at best… who else figured it out?

"And what do you know?" I asked, curious but a little upset. It would have been nice to know he knew!

"Relax; nothing really, but your story really never made any sense to me. To me or Kurenai. It was clearly a cover story. We realized it after getting to know you." He explained.

I glanced at the door - I really didn't like him ousting me so openly! Anyone could just wander on by! Thankfully there was no one - and a skilled shinobi like Asuma wouldn't go spilling any sort of secrets. He was a good man, despite us only getting along sometimes.

"Yes, well - lovely that you know." I grumbled.

"So. The advice?" He prompted, his brow raising slightly.

I leaned back and mulled it over. Fine, fine. He was a friend, or at least close enough to one that I didn't mind him knowing more.

"My cousin tried a couple times; learned the trick but chose to continue to smoke anyway. You're breaking more than one habit. Get some gum and keep it where you had your cigarettes. When you want to smoke, go and get a piece of gum instead and breathe deeply for a bit. It should help." I explained.

Asuma grunted, crossing his arms to think about it. He hummed and looked over at me.

"One of these days you'll have to let us know how you have all these weird suggestions." He said. I really hoped he'd never find out. Honestly, how odd would that be?

Asuma didn't stay for much longer after. He left after Nurse Reina returned.

It was another two days until I was fully cleared to leave. My Darling still hadn't shown up, but Gai had. He gave me a winning grin.

"Don't you worry, Tami-chan. I'll help get you back home!" He told me, giving me a bright thumbs up. I couldn't help but laugh. He was a good man, as always.

He walked home with me, helping me carry my fruit basket as I carried the letters and Mrs Ikki. Akino trailed after me like a hired guard. Really, if that was what Kakashi had been aiming for, he succeeded

"Thank you, Gai. You hadn't needed to." I told him.

"No need for thanks, Tami-chan!" He exclaimed, "you just getting better is thanks enough!"

Really, he was lovely. Gai helped me home and promised to check in later. He left all too soon.

Once again - it was simply myself and Akino. I looked down at him and struggled to smile.

"Home sweet home?" I tried weakly.

"Mine is in the forest." He answered before moving to find a place to sit. He chose a spot near the couch. To think, not that long ago, two little boys joined me for stories of superheroes and dreams of the future. There were talks of adventure and mischief. Odd how I had thought I would be the one leaving and in the end-. Suddenly my apartment seemed far too large. There was a silence heard there that I hadn't experienced in a long time. I didn't like it.

"Tea." I muttered to myself, shuffling into the kitchen. I just wanted a cuppa; nothing more nor less. I set Mrs Ikki down and took an inordinate amount of time selecting a lavender mint tea. I eventually made it back to sit beside Akino on the couch.

I sat there staring at my little mug. How strange it was - after all this time I was in the same place but everything was different now.

I couldn't help but wonder - was Kakashi done with me? Father hadn't even given me a chance. Why would he?

I heaved a long sigh. Then again - why would Kakashi spend his time in my hospital room, and leave Akino with me? He wasn't the sort to go overboard on anyone, let alone leave a fruit basket, his own summon and a card. I gently tapped my mug.

Here I was, wondering if my life had fallen apart. Both boys I cared for were gone. Uncle was with Orochimaru, potentially to be tormented or experimented on. Sasuke? The same. At least Naruto was out to train with Jiraiya. At least it was Jiraiya. Ibiki himself had said that Jiraiya was an excellent teacher. It would give Naruto's zeal direction. The little training he had gotten after the month break with Jiraiya had been significant. Naruto was getting stronger and stronger. He was on track to be the future Hokage already.

"Your tea will get cold." Akino said, interrupting my thoughts.

I jerked back and looked at the Ninken. I couldn't quite believe he was so concerned for me. I smiled at him and for his sake took a sip.

"Thank you." I murmured, sinking back into the sofa.

Maybe I was thinking too much about it all. The urge to ruffle the fur on his head was a strong one. I didn't want to lose whatever points I had won with him.

I didn't stay up for much longer, offering Akino his run of my apartment. He opted to stay where he was. I went to try to sleep. Taking my time through my nightly routine, I was ready for bed. I wore an overly large shirt and shorts. I had hoped that I would be able to sleep better at home. I wasn't really able to. I lay there in my bed, almost missing the beeping and bustle of the hospital.

I felt alone.

The silence was deafening.

I couldn't say if I got even a sliver of sleep. Eventually, I kicked my covers off and got up. I ruffled my hair and went to head into the living room. Maybe Akino can take over the bed and I can watch TV to keep my mind busy. As I reached the doorknob I heard soft voices on the other side of the door in the living room.

I paused; was it-?

"-is she doing?" A soft voice asked.

"Well enough. Seems lost in thought. Sad." Akino murmured.

I felt the tension in my shoulders near melt off of me. Kakashi was back.

I cautiously opened the door. There he was, knelt down by Akino. He seemed paler than usual, the lines under his eyes were more prominent. The slouch was back. His gaze snapped up and he stood slowly.

For the first time in a while I just acted. My Darling was back.

I ran to him, wrapping my arms around him. He instantly held me, pulling me tightly against him. I breathed him in. The scent of cedar and sandalwood. I felt a sob escape my mouth and without even saying a word, he picked me up and carried me to the sofa to sit.

X

Notes: So - so here we are. I already feel like this is more authentic to Tami. Before I tried to brush over this part of it and ignore it. I can't do that so - it's time to go deep.