Chapter 12: Adjustment

Hey guys. Look, I don't really have excuse for this extremely late post. Life has been super tough lately. I didn't have my laptop for the longest time and when I did get it back I didn't have the time for writing. I still have the inspiration for this story and the ideas just lack the time to properly write it. I am sorry. I will write and post this whenever I am able. This chapter isn't as long as I wanted it to be but I hope you enjoy it all the same.

Thanks again for reading and caring about this story. You can never know how much it means to me.

XOXO

Naruto is a little nervous. He has everything rationally possible to ensure that today runs smoothly. He discussed the logistics with Shikamaru, spoke to everyone who needed to know, and did his part to prepare his family for their new guest. However, he still can't help but feel anxious for the event. If he is feeling like this he wonders how Kawaki must be feeling. Naruto knows how foreign kindness can feel when you've never really known it your whole life. While it has been some time since he has felt that way, the trauma of that kind of treatment never really dissipates

He makes his way into the building, heading for Kawaki's room. He knocks, alerting the teenager to his presence, and then opens the door. Kawaki is standing by the window, presumably looking at the streets below. At the sound of the door creaking the dark-haired boy turns to look at him. He looks too stiff, feigning poise and nonchalance. So he is as nervous as the Hokage. That shouldn't comfort Naruto but it does. He is glad to see the boy is capable of normal human emotions, even if he tries to mask it behind a harsh veneer and cynicism.

"Morning Kawaki," Naruto greets with a smile. "How are you feeling?" He makes his way further into the room. "I brought you some clothes," he leaves a bag of clothes on the bed. "Thought you might like to wear something more casual," he tries to make conversation.

Kawaki just grunts, grabs the plastic bag, and steps into the bathroom to change. Naruto takes a seat at the chair next to the bed to wait.

"I apologise if it's a bit loose. It's some of my older stuff." Naruto had to rifle through his closet to find clothes that he thought would fit the younger boy. Hinata looked at him sceptically but didn't make any comments about his choice.

They spoke to Boruto and Himawari and told them Kawaki would be coming home today. They both wanted to stay home albeit for different reasons Naruto is sure. Naruto was anxious for Boruto and Kawaki to interact seeing as his son was not the biggest fan but Hinata and Naruto thought it would be easier if Kawaki met the family one at a time. This brings them to the present time, Naruto taking Kawaki home before Himawari was done at the Academy and before Boruto was done with Konohamaru's training.

Kawaki walks out of the bathroom shuffling his feet awkwardly. He's looking down, his gait shy but Naruto doesn't notice. "Oh good, they fit," Naruto says satisfactorily. "Do you like it?"

His question prompts a raised pierced eyebrow, "It's very…orange."

"Yeah. It's a cool colour right?" Naruto agrees. He found some of his old ninja outfits and thought it would be perfect for Kawaki.

"Uh… If you say so…"

"Where's the jacket?" Naruto asks, seeing the boy opt for his black vest and Naruto's orange track pants sans the orange zip-up jacket.

Kawaki looks sheepish, scratching at his eyebrow. "It's kinda hot, so I figure no need for a jacket." He's not making eye contact with Naruto when he speaks which Naruto thinks is odd but decides to let it go.

They leave the facility after that, Kawaki fidgeting with every step towards the exit of the building, looking almost scared at being allowed to leave as if it was a trap of some sort. Naruto decides to take a walk to the Uzumaki House, hoping a scenic route might ease the boy's nerves. The blond randomly points out different places throughout the village, occasionally stopping to greet some villagers. When he notices Kawaki shrink further into himself at every new interaction Naruto mentally kicks himself at his insensitivity. Of course, the younger boy would feel apprehensive and anxious walking around so many strangers.

Before long they reach their destination. Kawaki comes to a halt at the foot of the little driveway. "This is where you live?" He asks, his face momentarily surprised before hardening again.

Naruto looks at his home, trying to see it from Kawaki's perspective. What must he be thinking? It is bigger than one would expect. They're standing at the front gate, at the foot of the driveway. The lawn on either side of them is neatly trimmed, Hinata's plants and flowers lining up the edges, brightening up the space. Himawari's pink scooter was standing at the far end of the lawn, a few toys and balls were scattered throughout the space and Boruto's skateboard was haphazardly placed by the little gnome in front of the large living room window.

It looks lived in. He wonders if Kawaki is intimidated by that. Naruto tries to think how this house would make him feel at 13 or 15 years old. He most likely would feel very conflicted; to be confronted with the simple happiness of another family and know he has no part in it, feeling like an outsider or someone unworthy of that same happiness. Naruto glances at Kawaki and makes a silent vow to help him feel included and worthy of this as much as possible.

"Come on," Naruto urges, walking up the pathway and opening the front door, Kawaki trailing behind him.

"Hina," he announces, "we're home." His voice travels through the house. Kawaki hesitantly shuffles on his feet, eyes roaming over the room, taking in all the details. Naruto wishes he could know what he was thinking. He also glances at the room, taking in the couches in the middle of the room, all facing the television. The side door is slightly ajar, the breezes from outside making the open curtains softly billow.

There's a stillness in the room, the sunshine illuminating the warmth and love of a home, not a house. It's one of the things Naruto is most proud of. When he was growing up his house was simply a means to living. It had a functional purpose. When he and Hinata began dating he would find traces of her in his house. There would be memories burned into the couch, in the kitchen, in their bedroom. Looking at this house he sees their life, he sees Boruto's first steps and Himawari's drawings against the walls, the photo frames of their family, of their village. He feels especially proud because it's his. He worked hard to build his family, to accept the love Hinata so willingly gave him, and to return that affection tenfold.

Hinata walks out of the dining room entrance making her way towards them. She's using a yellow sundress, her hair in a messy bun, loose tendrils falling around her glowing face. She was wiping her hands on a towel.

"That's your wife?" Kawaki whispers from next to him, the awe blatant on his face. Hinata does have that effect on people so he doesn't comment on it.

Naruto nods proudly to which Kawaki replies, "No way! She's way too pretty for you." He only realises after that he said the last part aloud and Naruto spies a flush to his cheeks.

Naruto gazes at him quizzically. "Why is it that every time you open your mouth you insult me?"

Kawaki shakes off his previous embarrassment and smirks, "It's not that hard."

Naruto shakes his head then leans forward to place a kiss on Hinata's cheekbone, closer to her temple. "Hi, love."

She smiles and accepts his kiss, her hand enclosing around his waist. She gently pushes out of his embrace to look at the newcomer. "Hello," Hinata greets with a kind smile. "I'm Hinata, Naruto's wife. You must be Kawaki. It's lovely to meet you," she hesitates, unsure of the right gesture before she bows gently. The motion makes the dark-haired teen take a step back in shock, not expecting the gesture. That's the thing about Hinata; she always manages to surprise people in the best of ways. She's so overly genuine that it's difficult not to instantly like her.

"Uh – hello." He attempts to smile but it just comes out like a grimace. He visibly cringes at the lame attempt and then tries to fix it. "Uh…thanks for the – uh - " he swallows, " the packed lunches. You're a good cook."

Hinata beams at the compliment. "Are you serious? Hina gets a thank you?! I brought you lunch every day. You never thanked me," Naruto scoffs, his tone slightly whiny.

"Naruto," Hinata chides elbowing him in his stomach.

"Ow," he mumbles rubbing at his wound.

"Ignore him," Hinata says, "why don't we see the rest of the house."

Kawaki nods stiffly, unable to say anything else.

"So this is the living room, as you can see. You can watch TV or just relax here if you want. Also, there's a video game console," she points in the direction of it, "but I suggest waiting on Bolt before using that. Though I'm sure he won't mind." She continues speaking; walking in the same direction she came from. Naruto and Kawaki just follow after her.

"So through here is the dining room and kitchen." Kawaki is silently taking everything in, a contemplative look on his face.

Hinata points further into the kitchen. "There's a laundry room at the far end, by the back door."

They don't walk in there, Hinata instead goes down the hallway before stopping in front of a closed door. "At the end of this hall," she gestures further down the hallway at the last door, "is Naruto's office so just ignore him if you hear things banging, or him cursing or snoring. He ends up falling asleep often when he is working."

"I don't snore!" Naruto interrupts. Hinata looks at him with a raised brow. "It's a sinus thing and it only happens when I'm really tired," he argues then sighs in defeat.

Naruto turns the knob, opening the door and letting Hinata step in first. He then gestures for Kawaki to enter before him. The boy still hasn't said anything but walks into the room at Naruto's invitation.

"So," Hinata starts, "this will be your room." The room is simple, done in grey and white tones. In the middle is a double bed, with white covers and green pillows. There's a cupboard against the right wall and shelves on the left.

"I get my own room?" It's the first thing he's said in a while. Kawaki looks at Naruto, his astonishment impossible to conceal.

Naruto smiles, "Yeah," then asks cheekily, "do you not like it?"

Hinata pops her head from behind Naruto's arm, "I understand if the colours and stuff aren't to your liking. You can decorate it however you want," she assures.

"No, it's fine," Kawaki hastens to reply. "I – I – just- I didn't expect to get my own room." He's looking at the front wall now, staring at the dresser and little desk at the corner, avoiding meeting their gazes. Originally the room was a guest room, in case they needed to house one of their friends or family. It doesn't get used often so Hinata and Naruto have gotten slack in the upkeep of it.

"Yep. It's all yours," Naruto states.

"I left some towels in the cupboard, but if there's anything else that you need you can let me know. There's just one thing..." Hinata trails off and Kawaki turns to look at her, his gaze considerably softened.

"You have to share a bathroom with Himawari and Boruto…and that's upstairs. I hope you don't mind," Hinata hesitantly says.

Naruto is sure Kawaki is overwhelmed by all the kindness and consideration so he interrupts, "We'll show him that a bit later; why don't we let Kawaki settle in for now?" Naruto places a hand on Hinata's shoulder before pulling her in his arms and leading her out the door.

Kawaki sighs in relief, no doubt desperately needing some time to himself to regroup.

XOXOX

"That was good, right? We didn't scare him? I didn't scare him?" Hinata panics, pacing up and down the kitchen.

Naruto stops her in her tracks. "You were great," Naruto kisses her forehead, pulling her into his arms. "Just give him some time to adjust. He's not good with…people." Naruto finishes off.

Hinata nods into his chest. "Hmm, you smell nice," she sighs contently.

"I do?" Naruto questions sceptically. "Yesterday you said my scent makes you want to throw up."

"Don't make fun of me Naruto," Hinata mumbles. "You know I'm sensitive to smells." Hinata's morning sickness was unpredictable; she would simply be sitting and a lingering smell would get her bolting for the nearest bathroom. It wasn't one specific scent either; it could be anything, from the smell of eggs to the kid's toothpaste.

"I'm sorry. You're right, I shouldn't be teasing." He placates, looking down at her growing bump. "If anything we need to blame these two," he chides getting down at eye-level with her tummy. "Why are you making mommy sick huh? She not feeding you enough?"

"As if!" Hinata supplies indignantly. "Look at my size." She pulls back and indicates to her body. "Sooner or later, my bump is not going to be a 'bump' anymore."

"Hinata!" Naruto scolds. "You're a perfect size. You're glowing my love. I haven't seen a more stunning woman in my life." He says sincerely.

Hinata looks at him dubiously, "You have to say that. Anyway can we stop talking about my weight." she says in a huff, ending the conversation. "Why don't I make you a sandwich or something?"

"I'm good, thanks."

"Are you sure? I'm going to make some for Himawari. She should be home soon." Hinata reminds him and then extracts herself completely from his embrace to make her daughter a snack when she comes home. She decides to make extra for Kawaki and Boruto who should be home soon after Hima.

XOXOX

"Mama, I'm home," Himawari shouts from the front of the house. Hinata can hear the sound of her bag dropping and her feet against the floorboards as she makes her way towards the kitchen.

"Hi, baby," Hinata greets with a pleasant smile.

Himawari barely spares her a glance, her gaze focused squarely on Naruto sitting at the counter. "Daddy, you're home!" She exclaims rushing into his arms for a hug.

He laughs and catches her as she barrels into him. "Hi, Princess. How was the Academy? Learn anything new?"

"It was good. We learned a bunch of stuff." She excitedly launched into the happenings of her day. Naruto very rarely is home during the day so their daughter is taking full advantage of his presence. Naruto understands and makes sure to give his little girl his full attention.

They both make their way towards the dining table, sitting next to each other. Hinata finishes off the sandwiches and brings them to the table for the three of them to snack on. She shares a look with Naruto, silently asking him if they should call Kawaki out of his room. Naruto gives a slight shake of his head, indicating they should give him some space. Hinata could accept that for now, but she would put her foot down at dinner; she would not let him eat alone in his room.

The three of them ate their lunch, swapping stories, although it was mostly Himawari monopolising the conversation and her parents giving her centre stage. Hinata is sure she forgot the reason why her father was at home today, or it just hadn't crossed her mind yet, still hyper from her day.

After a while Kawaki ventured out of his room, hesitantly entering the dining room. His presence seems to jog Himawari's memory. "Oh, Daddy, I forgot about today," she apologises.

Naruto reaches out to ruffle her hair. "It's okay." He then addresses the teenager. "Kawaki, this is my daughter Himawari," he introduces smiling patiently at the boy.

"Hima, this is Kawaki," Naruto says to the little girl. She has a bright welcoming smile on her face. "Remember I said he's going to be staying with us."

Hima jumps down from her chair until she is right in front of Kawaki. "Hi," she waves. "My name is Himawari and I'm going to be your best friend," she declares.

Her words make Kawaki's eyes widen and he freezes in shock unable to come up with an appropriate response. Himawari either doesn't see his expression or chooses to ignore it, instead grabbing his fingers and dragging him towards the table. She urges him to sit and then turns to Hinata.

"Mama, why don't you make some tea for Kawaki," she suggests. Not waiting for an answer she continues speaking, "Oh. Wait, I made you something. I completely forgot," she smacks her hand against her forehead and then dashes out of the living room in search of…whatever she made.

Kawaki just stares blankly at the two remaining occupants. Naruto chuckles and rubs the back of his head, "Hima is a bit of a whirlwind. You'll get used to her."

Hinata moves into the kitchen to make some tea and before they know it Himawari is dashing back into the room holding a piece of paper in her hand. She stands next to Kawaki's chair, handing him the paper.

"It's a welcome card. I made it myself. I did all the drawings," she says proudly. Kawaki looks at the page quizzically, unsure of what to say or how to react. Naruto decides to lend a helping hand. "That's great Princess. I'm sure Kawaki will love it."

The boy in question opens the card and stray flecks of glitter fall off the page and into his lap. Naruto bites back a laugh at the sight of the grumpy teen with a lapful of pink glitter. He cranes his neck, trying to get a glimpse of the card. He saw the words 'welcome' and 'Kawaki'. He can also make out a drawing but the details are difficult to decipher from his angle.

Himawari is still waiting by his chair for a response and Naruto can see Kawaki is struggling to come up with a reply that isn't baked in sarcasm. He is saved from answering when they hear the sound of a sound and Boruto, "I'm home."

They all turn their heads in the direction of the noise. Boruto throws his bag boisterously and shouts. "Where is everyone? Mom? I'm starving. Please tell me there's fooood…" He drags the last word at the sight of Kawaki.

Naruto sits up straighter, alert in case this goes sideways. "Ahh Bolt. You're home, wonderful," he claps his hands together. Boruto does not look at him, instead, he fixes his gaze on Kawaki, eyes narrowing. Kawaki lazily looks at him, simultaneously raising the cup to his lips to take a sip, not breaking eye contact.

"Well if it isn't the psycho who tried to kill me," Boruto says, fists balling tight at his sides.

Naruto rolls his eyes. "Be nice!" He looks at Kawaki and points to his son. "Boruto," he then gestures to the other teen, "Kawaki." He then repeats the process, introducing both boys.

Boruto frowns petulantly. "What kind of name is Kawaki?" he scoffs.

"Because 'Boruto' wins so many awards," Kawaki lazily drawls.

"Are you making fun of me?" Boruto doesn't wait for an answer. "Okay, you listen here. This is my house," he points angrily. "You do not get to insult me -" he marches towards Kawaki.

"Oh boy," Naruto massages his temples.

"Didn't anyone ever tell you how annoying you are? You're like an empty vessel…talk talk talk… but all that comes out is noise…" Kawaki takes another sip of his tea, not bothered by the finger in front of his face.

"How dare you?" Boruto grits out affronted at the words, "You wanna take this outside?"

"Why? So I can beat you again?" Kawaki stands up and faces Boruto, using his height to stare down at him. He quirks an eyebrow pausing for an effect. "Thanks, I'll pass."

"You didn't beat me!" Boruto shouts.

Kawaki smirks deviously. "Pretty sure I did."

Naruto sighs. If he and Sasuke were anything like this when they were younger he owes Kakashi Sensei an apology. He wakes up from the table, walks towards the two teenagers, and puts an arm around each of their shoulders. Kawaki stiffens at the contact but otherwise doesn't comment.

"Alright boys. That's enough. There'll be no fighting. You both are going to be living under the same roof for the foreseeable future. I'd like for you to get along with each other. I actually think you both can be very good friends."

"Yeah right"

"As if!

Naruto screws his eyes. He needs to pick his battles. "So, final warning: don't kill each other. And especially do not break anything in this house while you're not killing each other." He lowers his voice to a whisper so only the boys can hear his next words. He stares at Kawaki. "My wife is the kindest, nicest person you will ever meet…but you do not want to make her angry."

He looks at Boruto, "I'm sure you don't need a reminder Bolt." His son visibly swallows, his angry face turning into fear, no doubt remembering the last time Hinata kicked them out of the house. Kawaki takes on a thoughtful expression but doesn't say anything on the matter.

"Perfect. We're all on the same page. Let's drink some tea."

XOXOX

It is suffice to say the next few days were not easy. Naruto constantly had to break up arguments between the two boys, Boruto would taunt Kawaki, and Kawaki like the little shit he was would just smirk or give a snide remark. Other times he would say nothing at all, or just pretend not to hear the younger boy and for some reason those times Bolt would just get angrier. Naruto suspects that Kawaki does it on purpose at this point.

For the most part, Kawaki keeps to himself. Hinata usually invites/forces him to have breakfast with her then he disappears to his room and doesn't come out until they are all at home for supper. Naruto tries to get him to join them in the lounge for a movie or some activity of a sort but he always refuses. He has a harder time refusing Himawari or Hinata; Naruto can understand that. He has a difficult time refusing his wife or daughter when they ask things of him. Kawaki, however, just beats around the bush or awkwardly ignores the attempts at socialisation until they drop it.

Naruto is currently staring at himself in his bathroom mirror, hearing Bolt banging on the door of his and Himawari's shared bathroom. "Hey, you weirdo, quit hogging the bathroom. If you finish all the hot water I will kill you," he threatens. Naruto considers walking across the hall but then decides against it, not in the mood to play mediator. Let them sort out their issues on their own; though Naruto knows that Kawaki is going to take longer in the shower just to spite Boruto.

The blonde ninja sighs, opening the faucet to drown out his son's yells. He puts the stopper in and lets the water fill the basin. While the water gushes, Naruto grabs what he needs and settles it on the counter. When he deems it sufficient he closes the tap and dips his hands in. He then squeezes shaving cream onto his fingertips and begins to lather his face. He loses himself in the monotony of the task almost missing the feel of hands around his waist. Hinata pressed herself flush against his back; her face smooched between his shoulder blades. She buries her face against the white of his cotton and peaks out from the side resting her chin on his upper arm, looking at him in the mirror.

"Are we going to ignore the situation down the hall?" Hinata asks, biting her lip.

"Yep," Naruto nods. "They got to at least learn to tolerate each other." He dips his hand back into the basin, rinsing the soapy mixture off his fingers.

"Does that make us bad parents?"

"I don't think so." He pauses. "I'm going to say no," he assures. She laughs at his tone and then moves from behind him.

"Let me help," she offers taking the shaving blade from his hand. "Help me up." She raises her arms, allowing him access to her hips.

He grabs her hips, lifting her effortlessly onto the countertop. He rubs at her growing bump in affection. She spreads her legs so he can slot himself comfortably in the open space. She dips the blade into the basin, before raising it to his face. He tilts his head to the side, making it easier for her to work. Hinata makes sure to use gentle strokes, once, and twice and then returns the blade to the basin.

"Kawaki is not what I expected," she starts, thinking about the past couple of days. Hinata tried on many occasions to get the boy to join her during the day, and to talk to her but he often ignored her attempts. "He's quieter than I would have thought. There's trauma there," she murmurs, "but he has so much potential, we just have to help him find it." She raises the blade again.

"He needs to be able to trust us, but he has to do that on his own, and we have to give him the time to do that." Naruto squeezes at the side of her hip.

"I know. I just wish he wasn't so silent all the time. I'd like to know what he's thinking. I want to be able to help."

"I know honey. I do too." He sighs.

The room is shrouded in silence, Hinata working slowly and dutifully on his face, lost in thought. "I think I'm going to take him shopping."

"Hmm?" Naruto blinks, enjoying the sensation of his wife's hands on him, not paying attention to her words.

"Kawaki," she states. "Shopping. He needs new clothes. Orange is not his colour," she wrinkles her nose.

"Orange is a lovely colour," Naruto combats.

"On you sweetie. You're the only person it looks good on," she compliments.

"Really? Cause I have vivid memories of you in my clothes…and in that colour," he smiles cheekily before tilting his head towards the ceiling so Hinata can get the underside of his jaw. "Maybe I'll join you," he suggests.

She stops her ministrations, tipping his face, their eyes connecting. "No Naruto. You can't keep missing work. Being Hokage is important."

He sighs. He knows she is right but he wishes he could be there for more stuff.

"And maybe you could dial down on the shadow clones, four is a bit excessive."

"I just want you to be safe," he mutters.

"I am safe. One," she holds up a pointer finger, "make sure it's only one."

"Fine," he huffs, his blond hair falling into his eyes at the action. Hinata gently brushes it away and continues her task.

Naruto watches her work silently, letting his thoughts roam. He's staring, watching the blade make broad strokes on his face, strands of hair continuously falling into his eyes. "Ugh, I might need a haircut soon. I didn't realise how long my hair had gotten," he comments, running his fingers over the dishevelled mess.

"No!" Hinata yelps. "You can't cut it."

Naruto purses his lips, "It's so messy though."

"I like it," Hinata shrugs shyly. "You look…sexy," she bites her lip nervously.

The words make him perk up. "Interesting…you think I look sexy?" he waggles his eyebrows, stepping out of her hold, with his hands on his hips and his lips upturned in a smirk. He's teasing her.

She sees right through it. "Not when you're doing that. Now that I think about it, you're right. It's very messy; not at all sexy," she shrugs nonchalantly.

He gasps dramatically at her words. "I'll show you messy," he leans forward, using the side of his face still covered with shaving cream to smear it over her face.

"Naruto," she squeals and he makes sure to wiggle his face to get as much on her as possible.

"You're messing up my face," she splutters in between giggles.

"That's what you get for making such ridiculous comments. Take it back!" He says attacking her sides and making her burst out in uncontrollable laughter.

"Alright, alright. Mercy! Mercy!" she cries until Naruto stops his ministrations.

"Everything okay?" Himawari asks making Kawaki flinch. He was at the top of the stairs, listening to Hinata and Naruto with an unreadable expression on his face. He flushes at being caught in the act.

He scowls fixing her with a tiny glare before grunting and making his way downstairs to his bedroom, hoping she wouldn't follow him and push for any answers.

This has got to be weirdest family he has ever met. No one is this nice, especially to someone like him. Sooner or later something's gotta give.

XOXOX

So there are a lot of things about Boruto (the anime) that I may not be completely on board with, from the little I am acquainted with. One of those things is Naruto's hair. My head-canon for older Naruto is longer hair, more like Minato's. So like we do in fanfiction, I just made his hair longer. If you prefer the way he looks in the anime just ignore my description and picture him the way you love him.

I hope you enjoyed this chapter. As usual likes and comments would be greatly appreciated.

Much love guys. Stay safe. Take care of yourselves