Burn
"In all the world, there is no heart for me like yours. In all the world, there is no love for you like mine." – Maya Angelou
Chapter Ten
Tsunade flipped through the journal entries Tami had delivered to her. If this was right, Itachi was a victim. Sure, he still murdered his clan, but he was coerced by Danzo. She knew he was up to no good. He always seemed to be hiding behind Sarutobi-sensei, doing what he pleased. But Tsunade never would have thought he would go that far. And to steal Shisui's eye and poison him?
This painted an entirely different picture of the village and Danzo.
"Shizune," Tsuande began, looking up. Her ward stood off to the side, Tonton in her arms. Her brow creased as she regarded Tsunade.
"Yes?"
"We need to pull the records from Sarutobi-sama's time. Can you do this discreetly?" She asked, knowing the answer already. Shizune smiled and nodded.
"Of course. Anything particular?"
"Not yet…. Pull anything regarding the team Danzo was on. I want to see something." Tsunade started, leaning back in her chair.
Shizune nodded. She moved to leave, but Tsunade stopped her.
"And… get Maya."
Maybe the girl would be willing to talk over this character. Shizune had only needed an hour to get the young woman in front of her, and head off to find the reports.
Maya scurried in through the office doors, holding her hands out in front of her. She looked a little puzzled.
"You wanted to see me?" She asked.
"Yes, I did. Go ahead and close the doors." Tsunade said. Maya must have thought she was talking to her as she turned to do it - the guards moved from outside the door to close them quickly.
Maya paused and shifted from foot to foot before turning back around, "oh - uhh."
"So." Tsunade said, moving to stand and move around her desk and the piles of paperwork she still needed to get done. Really, did it ever end? "I was wondering if you could answer anything for me."
Maya smiled nervously, playing with her fingers.
"Did I do anything…?"
"Not yet." Tsunade said. Maya seemed unsure. Tsunade already guessed what would happen, but she wanted to know if the girl could help. Or would help. "Tami just delivered to me translated journal pages from Itachi. Care to guess what's inside of them?"
Maya's nervous smile slowly shifted into an awkward cringe.
Tsunade hummed. She didn't know if she wanted to make a bet right then and there. She hated being right.
"Have anything to add?" Tsunade asked her.
"I… I think- I mean, what good would it do to uncover this?" Maya asked, glancing at her feet.
"Good?"
"It could break the village apart."
Tsunade crossed her arms, watching the girl shift and squirm nervously. Obviously she knew more. She kept secrets like a two year old.
Tsunade pressed her lips together. It might. It could. An entire clan was destroyed because a council member abused his power and position. The Uchiha were founding members - for them to be attacked and destroyed in that fashion it would call into question every other Clan's safety. However, no other Clan had been involved in a possible coup.
"Maybe it will. But do you think it's a good idea to let corruption go unchecked?" Tsunade asked.
Itachi was another matter entirely. But Danzo would need to be dealt with if this actually happened.
"He -ahh…" Maya stalled as she thought through what to say, "no big issues with him."
Tsunade raised her eyebrows. No issues? She frowned.
"What do you mean?" She knew Maya couldn't explain thoroughly, but still.
Maya shifted, crossing her arms around her middle.
"I can't really…" She explained softly. "It's.. uhm.. Spoilers."
Tsunade hummed softly. She looked Maya over.
"Do you have anything else for me?"
Maya pressed her lips together and looked at the ground. She finally shook her head.
Tsunade dismissed her not long after that. As the Hokage, Tsunade had wondered if she would allow Oliver to take Maya back home. The girl knew everything that they would be facing in the future. She toyed with the idea of blocking the man from taking Maya, and letting him leave alone. But maybe it would be wiser to let the young girl go. The village had indeed gotten through it once. Clearly they survived what would happen. She doubted Tami's involvement would change the course of events that severely.
X
The next few days, I trained tirelessly. Uncle thankfully didn't stop me. But he did give me those patented disapproving looks from the corner of his eye.
Owl did show up one foggy morning, showing me how to find out my Chakra Nature. It turned out that Temari was correct. My chakra nature was wind. Of course. I decided not to tell my Uncle my news. I was sure he'd simply say "Of course your nature is wind. You're full of hot air."
So I began to learn my new chakra nature. I planned to learn some water and Fire where applicable. As per Owl's explanation, I had to master two nature transformations to earn Jounin. There was also a series of tests I had to pass in addition to that. Grand.
But - I had to do this. I needed to get to Jounin. Then I needed to find Itachi and Sasuke. One would be the easier of the two. Going after Sasuke while he was around Orochimaru was a death sentence. But maybe resolving the Itachi problem would cause Sasuke to return. Surely he'd be angry with me until he understood. Or maybe it'd help Sasuke somehow. But I couldn't simply let this pass me. I failed Sasuke before. I needed to help him this time.
While training, I did see Uncle from the corner of my eye. He did always have that unimpressed frown across his lips and his hands shoved in his pockets. I rather didn't know what to do. So I ignored it.
Late in my training one morning, Pakkun found me. I hadn't seen Kakashi's pack in a good minute, so it was a treat.
"Coming to see me, Pakkun? You flatter me." I said with a wide grin.
Pakkun huffed, but I could see he just wanted to look tough.
"Boss wanted to let you know he'd pick you up tonight." He told me when he got close.
"Oh?" I began, sitting down on the ground beside him. I was surprised Kakashi was being so formal. I guessed he wanted to do something special. We were both more low-key, so I hadn't minded not going out. I'd have to meet him at this new level. Would makeup be too much? "Is he back?"
"Taking care of business," Pakkun said, sitting down near my knee.
"Well- thank you. Would you like to join me…?" I was about to head in for work. Surely no one would mind if he came with.
"Boss said you two were trying to be quiet about your relationship. Carrying me around wouldn't do that." Pakkun insisted.
Too true.
"And neither would dating openly. Or dressing up." I said, trying not to grin down at him.
"Boss will take care of it."
I hummed, wondering how he'd manage that.
"Well. Thank you. If you or the pack is ever in the neighborhood, I would never mind you stopping by." I told him as I got up. I needed to get to work. Pakkun's ear perked up.
"Yeah?"
"Of course. We do have to work together regarding a certain masked man. And I wouldn't mind visitors." I continued as I stretched my arms up.
"I'll keep that in mind. Guruko missed seeing you as much."
"I'd love it if he came by."
"I'll let him know."
We exchanged our goodbyes and I headed off for work. When I returned home, Uncle already seemed to be in a mood. He grumbled to himself in the kitchen as I decided to ignore him. I headed into my room, found my best dress, and headed into the bathroom to put on my makeup and do my hair. It had been a long minute since I got all dressed up. It had been - my. It had been since that silly last mission I had with Hatake. It was strange to think my life had changed so much since then.
There was so much I wish I could have done over again. I almost wondered if that was where my woes began.
Sasuke was still home. Kakashi and I were still working together, and things were good. Until I fumbled a mission, didn't pay close enough attention to Sasuke and -.
No.
I couldn't keep looking in the past. I couldn't fix any of it. It was high time I started doing something more.
Uncle's back had been turned to me when I stepped out of my room. I decided to just walk by and step into the kitchen. Maybe I should have said something. Probably.
I caught Uncle giving me a side-eye as I moved to get my tea together.
"What are you all dressed up for?" He asked gruffly.
"My Darling should be back soon. Wanted to take me out." I said lightly, going about my business.
"The Pirate." He clarified.
"If you gave him a chance, you might find he's quite lovely."
Uncle grunted.
Maybe I should give him at least something to go off of. Kakashi was a little rough around the edges. Kept to himself and sometimes came off the wrong way.
"He does have a particular skill at getting under the skin." I continued, looking over at my Uncle who had his arms crossed. "And I'm well aware of my prior track record. Hatake is - Uncle, I wouldn't just flippantly date anyone here."
Uncle remained standing there in silence. I saw his jaw tick for a moment before he moved away.
"Tams, it's your life. But you gotta use your sense." He said finally.
I hummed, deciding not to say anything. I was using my senses; I loved my new home. I wasn't about to just leave it. Even if my Darling ended up breaking my heart and - I don't think I could leave. Naruto, Sasuke, and my responsibility to him - as well as everything else. I couldn't just leave. This was home, now.
"Did - did you happen to meet Sasuke? While you were in there?" I asked him.
"Yeah. Smart kid with no sense. Kinda like somebody else I know." He said, a little humor in his voice. I clicked my tongue and shot him a look.
"Is he... is he okay?"
"He's fine. Or at least he was when I last saw him. Kid is stubborn, but he's not stupid. He'll live, Tams. Don't worry, okay?" Oliver said firmly. I couldn't help but worry for Sasuke. I was about to reply when I heard a knock at the door.
Uncle's appearance soured and he got up quickly, "I got it."
I should field my Uncle's behavior, but right then I couldn't. I hoped my Darling could forgive me. I hoped my Uncle wouldn't be too terrible.
X
Kakashi had gotten in fairly early that morning. He sent Pakkun off to let his Tami-chan know he was back. He went to inform Tsunade about his mission, and she filled him in on the journal entries. From there, he went looking for Maya. She was easy enough to find. She was still in Jiraiya's home, baking in the kitchen. Kakashi climbed over to the window, finding her making what looked to be a cake.
"Hello." He said, trying to not scare her.
Maya must not have noticed him. She jumped, the bowl nearly dropping from her hands. She scrambled to catch it and sent him a glare.
"Really?" She complained. She stared at him, a frown growing on her face. Kakashi let himself in, Maya's sour mood increasing by the minute.
"Hello, Maya-chan." He said, giving her a warm smile.
"What do you want?"
"Maa - Maya, why would you think I wanted anything?"
Maya sent him a dry look. And here he thought she was a sweet innocent little girl.
"You only bother people when you want something. People usually have to go to you." She said flatly. For some reason, that almost hurt. Kakashi maa'd again, and sat on the counter. He went to look at the bowl she was mixing and she moved it away from him.
"It's sweet." She told him in a dismissive tone.
It was really weird she knew him that well.
"Well. Are you going to tell me what you want?" Maya continued, "You're funnier on the screen."
"Don't be so loud, Maya-chan. Anbu are near." He said cheerfully. They weren't that close. Jackal was hanging out on the roof, humming tunelessly to himself. At least that was where he had last been when Kakashi let himself in.
Maya squeaked and looked out the window. It took her a little longer for her to figure out he was just messing with her. She shot him another look.
Kakashi just smiled.
"You're such a pain." She grumbled, turning back to her baking. Kakashi watched her for a minute. Maybe talking with her would help him figure out how to deal with Oliver.
"Can you teach me that language?" Kakashi finally asked.
Maya stopped, her mouth dropping open. She looked at Kakashi, befuddlement in her eyes.
"English? You want to learn English?"
"Yes."
"Why?"
Kakashi just smiled again. Partly, he wanted to surprise his Tami-chan, the rest? The rest, he wanted to know exactly what Oliver was trying to tell Tami without him knowing about it. Kakashi already had a plan forming in his head on how he'd use this new skill.
"I want to surprise Tami."
Maya's brow lowered for a moment as she processed it. She glanced out the window and pressed her lips together as she turned back to him.
"Well… if you really want to. I guess I can help. But you owe me." She told him, sticking a finger in his face. How rude. But he couldn't really say anything. He wasn't being very polite either.
"Well? What can you teach me now?" He asked.
"Now?"
"Maa… of course, Maya-chan."
She groaned and muttered something in that strange language.
Kakashi was pleased he was able to learn at least some important words that morning. He felt at least a little prepared to see Tami and Oliver again.
Soon after, he needed to prepare for an entirely different event. He planned to take Tami to a nice restaurant that night. The plan had been to at least not advertise his relationship with her. It might not be painfully obvious to outsiders yet, but if he was seen on a date in a nice restaurant with her? It would be obvious to even someone like Naruto. So - Kakashi went home to take a shower and prepare.
He pulled out the purple face paint he had used months ago and grinned to himself. Purple washes him out, huh?
He hoped his Tami didn't mind seeing Sukea again. He'd be able to see her plainly, not hiding his face. Of course, he'd be in disguise but he figured she might like it. But he still didn't want Oliver seeing his face. So - after he put on the physical disguise and even the wig. He found a good outfit to put on. He usually preferred Sukea to look more eccentric, but not tonight. He used a henge after he left to conceal himself before heading out. He picked up some flowers at Inoichi's shop and headed over to Tami's apartment. He knew she liked to look into the meanings, so he got a few he thought were fitting. Kakashi gently knocked on the door once he arrived. Although he had a key, he didn't want to disrespect Oliver. At least not yet.
X
I let my Uncle answer the door. He came back nearly immediately, the front door snapping closed. I stepped out and headed into the living room.
"Girl Scouts at the door - wanting to us to buy cookies." He rumbled to me as he passed. The door was unlocked nearly immediately and Kakashi stepped in. He sent Oliver a dark look, flowers in his hand. Red Salvia - I couldn't help but grin. What a charmer - it meant forever mine. How sweet was he? He looked the same for our date. I couldn't help but feel a little disappointed, but I didn't linger on it long.
Oliver sent him a dark look, probably realizing Kakashi had a key to get in. My darling gave me a bright eye-smile and I moved to greet him as he handed me the flowers.
"They're beautiful. Thank you." She murmured softly to him. His gaze warmed as I kissed his cheek, "I'm sorry for him. He's been in a mood."
"Maa - don't worry, Tami-chan." He whispered back. I stroked his masked cheek before I pulled away, intent on placing the new flowers in a vase. I shot Uncle a look as I passed, mouthing 'behave' his way.
Uncle grunted, crossed his arms, and sat down on the sofa.
"You seriously come here for a date lookin' like that?" I heard Uncle complain. I breathed in slowly as I moved to put the flowers in their vase. Even Uncle's complaining couldn't dampen my mood.
Forever Mine - I smiled. My Darling had a reason for what he did and why he did it. If he hadn't dressed up, there was simply a reason for it.
"Maa - I didn't know I was taking you out, Walker-san. I guess I should have dressed accordingly." My darling spoke back. I had to bite my tongue to not break into laughter. I remember when he used to call me 'Walker-san'. Mostly when he was trying to be distant but civil.
"Uncle, leave him be. He just got back from a mission." I told him pointedly as I stepped out. I could see Kakashi from the corner of my eye taking in my form with veiled appreciation. I nearly wanted to preen.
Uncle sent us both dry, dull looks. They were nearly patented to him, truly. As I thought of it, I don't think Uncle truly liked any man I took home as a potential beau. If they were friends, he was okay. Otherwise? Well.
"Ready?" I asked my Darling who just brightened. I moved to his side and turned to my Uncle. "We won't be out long. See you soon?"
Uncle just grunted, waving me on.
"Don't do nothin' I wouldn't do. Or would do. Be careful with him, Tams." Uncle chastised me gently, his gaze softening just a little. I could feel Kakashi stiffening beside me. I placed a hand on his back to calm him and we left right after I bade goodnight.
"I'm sorry about him." I told him as we closed my door, "He's been in a mood since, upset that I'm staying."
Kakashi ahhed knowingly.
"I can't say I blame him, Tami-chan. I know I wouldn't be able to give up on you easily either." He said smoothly. I blushed as he guided me along, his hand on my back. I knew we wanted to keep our relationship silent, but with both of us-. "You look beautiful tonight."
"Thank you, I-" I turned to look at him, pausing in mid-thought. The masked face of Kakashi was gone. There beside me was Sukea, his dark gaze meeting mine. His eyes crinkled as he saw me pause. He looked so handsome. He hadn't worn anything to make him look like a frumpy old man. In fact, he was dressed up in a tasteful pair of dark slacks and a fitted black shirt. I've never seen this outfit before - I did wonder if he went shopping.
"Are you still going to report me to children's radio programs, Tami-chan?" He asked teasingly. I couldn't help but stare. A grin broke out across my face and I placed a hand on his cheek. Both of his dark eyes were watching me instead of one. I'll admit, the Sharingan always unsettled me. It was nice to see what he would have looked like without the Sharingan.
"Maybe. What sort of story are you chasing tonight, dear reporter?" I teased back. I didn't get to see him often dressed in anything else but his shinobi standard uniform. It was nice to see something different. I placed a hand on his chest, seeing he still used that pale purple eye makeup. More than likely, it had a reason like all of his other quirks. If I remember, Rin had used something similar. I couldn't fault him for that.
I wondered how close they had been. Had they-? Perhaps that's why he had been alone for so long.
"I can't reveal all of my secrets, Tami-chan." He said softly to me. His chest puffed up just a little bit.
"Oh? Secrets, have we?" I drawled. I watched as a gentle blush crossed his nose which typically hid by his mask.
"Maybe you'll find out in time. We have a reservation to meet."
He made a reservation? My eyebrows raised, though I felt some delight over that. He was trying to pull all the stops. He didn't need to. I didn't mind his quirks.
Kakashi took me to the restaurant shortly after. He just so happened to take me to the one Naruto tried to set me up with Iruka. It was one of the more upscale places to dine, but the thought wasn't lost on me. He helped me to my seat before sitting across from me in a booth. He had something on that mind of his. I wasn't quite sure what it was, but I knew he'd tell me shortly.
He waited until the waiter had come and left with our orders. We both seemed to understand that work was on the back burner tonight. I was sure Tsunade already briefed him on my findings anyway.
"You know I'm not leaving, right?" I began softly. Kakashi smiled softly, nodding his head gently.
"Yes - yes, I know." He began, though he didn't sound entirely convinced. I wasn't going to argue it - he'd see in time. "I wanted to talk about us."
I paused - wondering what it was about.
"Oh?"
He paused for a minute, his hand moving to worry the back of his neck. Worried about something else, was he? I reached out for his free hand on the table and gave it a nice squeeze.
"Tell me."
Kakashi froze, smiling weakly, and awkwardly cleared his throat. My Darling - nervous again? I missed seeing him flounder. It was rather cute.
"I- I, ahh… Tami-chan…" He stuttered, trying to find the words.
I couldn't quite help him along - I had no idea what this was about. So I waited for him to gain his bearings. He would soon enough. I just held his hand in mine.
"I- what would-..." He started, fumbling through his words, "Do you like kids?"
Kids? What was he - I blushed. Oh. Oh, we were having that talk. That's why he took me out. I thought about making it easy on him, but a part of me really wanted to tease him. He was too cute.
"Kids? They're perfectly acceptable. Having thoughts about teaching another team again?" I asked, knowing that wasn't at all what he was trying to get at. His eyebrows raised, surprise flickering in his eyes.
"No - no, now that I'm leading team seven, I'm not tutoring anyone else." He explained weakly.
"Oh? Then whose children were you talking about?" I asked him, placing my chin in my free hand. He floundered again. I couldn't help but giggle at him. He was too cute. Seeing the normally disciplined man struggle with such a question - it was adorable. I loved this side of him, also that dire wolf that would show up once in a awhile that would turn the tables on me. He kept me on my toes.
"Are you talking about our possible children?" I asked. He didn't answer, his face red enough to tell me that's exactly what he meant.
"Well, I wouldn't mind it. What do you think?" I started. Truly, I hadn't thought much about it, after all my mind had been full of other things going on. I didn't think he'd be concerned about something so domestic yet.
"I-... I don't know." He started, he leaned a little forward as he still held my hand, "My father was gone so quickly. I don't know if I'd do a good job."
"You've done well with your students - and your pack. I'm rather sure you'd be fine." I murmured to him.
His mouth pressed together and he looked down at our hands.
"I failed Sasuke. And you. And my teams before." He admitted softly. My heart broke. He carried it all with him.
"Darling… everyone fails sometimes. I failed Sasuke, too. You were barely his sensei for a handful of months. I've been looking after him for years. I couldn't even…." I stopped myself. I didn't want to bluster on about that. It was a hard reality to remember. I took the second to think about it. "I think - I think you'd be an excellent father. You're a good man, and you have good people around. Do you really think any of us would just - let you be a bad father?"
He breathed out slowly and smiled weakly at me.
"You know I'll be the first to let you know if something is wrong. And you'll do the same with me. And even if we both fall off the track, I'm rather sure Gai would be right there, telling us we needed to shape up because springtime youth compels us to." I continued lightly.
I earned a chuckle for that one. But the look in his eye didn't go away. I knew his other concern. His main concern. I could have answered his unasked question, but I waited for him. I wanted to hear it. He could, if given the time.
"What… if we do have children, do you want to continue to go out into the field?" He asked finally.
"No," I answered, and I could see his shoulders drop instantly. So that was why he was so wound up? "I don't. I'd rather spend time tending to them and you - maybe work part-time with Ibiki. I don't want to be in the field forever."
The relief that just settled on him - he must have been worried I'd want to forever be a ninja. I knew I worried the poor man. But I would have to do my best to be sensible. I laughed and moved to kiss his hand.
"My love, I'm not that interested in fighting. For now, it's serving a purpose. But I've no interest in jumping into dangers untold while my theoretical children wait at home." I explained.
"Okay… okay, Tami-chan." He said softly. He moved to stroke my cheek, smiling softly. "Do - do you see yourself with me…?"
I paused. Even with the fine lighting in the restaurant, he seemed a little worried - just a smidgen uncomfortable. Did he - did he doubt me? No… no, he didn't. Just worried as he usually was. I smiled and kissed his palm.
"Darling, I'm rather sure you're the only man I'll ever want," I said, fully meaning every word. Kakashi's gaze warmed. His early discomfort had since faded and left. He stroked my cheek gently.
"And you're the only one I want, too, Tami-chan." He said with a serene conviction.
He didn't know that. His true love could be days away. He didn't -.
Kakashi suddenly leaned in, gently drawing me in for a soft and light kiss.
"Mine." He said against my lips before pulling away. I flushed, my breathing hitching. I felt stunned, him having broken my thought process. I couldn't believe he just kissed me so openly. Mind, our booth was private enough but he wasn't known for his PDA. "I only want you."
He sat back and that was when the waiter returned with our dinner. The rest of the night there we enjoyed each other's company. We held hands as we left, taking the long way back home.
The lights at night were gorgeous. The stars shimmered above us, dancing to their own unknown tune. I felt like I was floating on a cloud. I danced away from my Love as he watched on, a wide smile on his face.
"Coming to dance with me, my love?" I asked him playfully, my skirts swirling around my knees. His gaze warmed and moved toward me. As he went over, a voice broke out and a green blur appeared before us.
Gai appeared beside me, "Tami-chan!"
Kakashi froze, his eyes wide. He looked like a deer in headlights.
"Gai." I began, my mouth falling open as I saw the panic grow in Kakashi's eyes.
"What are you doing out at this time of night? Kakashi-kun will be very worried for you." He began, and then took note of the Sukea-guised Kakashi. "Tami-chan, why are you with this strange man?"
The panic in Kakashi's face increased ten-fold. It was all I could do to not laugh at our situation - once again I had to bite my tongue. It was clear not even Gai was privy to Kakashi's hidden persona.
"He's an old friend. We were catching up." I explained. Gai hummed, evaluating both myself and Sukea.
"I see… wasn't he the reporter from a few months ago?" Gai said. Concern flashed in Gai's eyes as he gently pulled me away. Kakashi watched from off to the side. I could see a little bit of concern in his eyes.
"Tami-chan - keep an eye on that man. I think he's plotting something against Kakashi." Gai told me conspiratorially. "I recall he had been trying to turn his own team against him."
"Oh?" I cast a glance at my Love, who seemed both bewildered and nervous. "I'm aware. I've been keeping a close eye on him."
Gai nodded seriously, "Good. See that you do. We must make sure he doesn't harm our friend."
I nodded just as seriously. I whole heartedly agreed.
"Don't worry. I've it under control." I told him.
Gai nodded firmly. He looked once more to Sukea and then frowned, "see that you get home soon. I don't want him to worry."
"Mm. I'll be fine, I promise."
With that, Gai left us. He waved to me and sent a dark look to Sukea as if to warn him not to harm me.
I couldn't help it. I dissolved into laughter. My love just sighed, and I pulled him away and ran from the scene. We needed to get out of the open, or all of Konoha would see his secret face.
I was still giggling when we found a secluded street. No lamps nor people out. I saw his eyes light up, a smile on his face as I tried to contain my joy. My love had me in his arms, holding me against his chest. I sobered up slowly, seeing again the soft twinkle of the stars above us. The moon light cascading against his face. His warm gaze watching me. Time stopped. For a moment, I wondered what he'd look like, bare-faced before me as himself, his starlight hair highlighted by the night sky. For not the first time, we moved as one. We kissed, his arms holding me close to his chest. His hands sliding up my back, while my fingers got lost in his hair. I couldn't say who did what first, but it wasn't enough. I wanted a taste and he gladly took part. His tongue gently brushed against mine as he held me tightly against him.
We broke apart - we were both breathing a little hard. My love gently rubbed my back. We probably should be heading back. I didn't want to. But Uncle would worry. I closed my eyes, not wanting the night to end. Neither of us wanted it to. But eventually, Kakashi guided me back to my apartment where my Uncle was waiting for me. He only saw me to the door, I was sure he didn't want my Uncle to see him.
Not even my Uncle's sour mood could damper my spirits. I felt like I was walking on air. My Uncle didn't dare try to convince me otherwise then. I was too enraptured by love to listen to him.
The following months flew by. My training intensified as I prepared to potentially take on Itachi with Kakashi. My Uncle was still trying to make me see reason as he helped Tsunade. I had even sent my supposed "going home" jutsu to Tsunade to look over for Uncle. Maya hadn't said if she wanted to leave or stay yet. Uncle seemed to want her to go with him.
"She left with me, Tams. I'm gonna be branded as a murderer if she don't." Oliver reasoned.
We'd have to figure something out if Maya decided to stay. Kakashi told me not to worry. He seemed sure she'd remain there.
Over the month that Uncle Oliver was around, he did try all sorts of ways to dissuade me from staying or even doubting my love for Kakashi.
"He's gay, Tams." He told me one day.
"He's… gay."
"Seriously. Him and that green guy, swear they were frolicking around. You're his beard." Uncle said.
I nearly rolled my eyes. Gai and Kakashi had a kinship, almost a brotherhood going on. I couldn't see them ever being that way with each other. But again, it seemed to be a common thought. I sighed.
As far as my Love went - he was well. He was out on missions often enough. Uncle had yet to even give Kakashi any sort of chance, or respect. I tried to make sure Uncle wasn't too obnoxious. Kakashi could stand up for himself, of course, but he shouldn't have to. Not against my Uncle.
From what I heard, Uncle was doing well with the Police Force. I sometimes wished I could help more, but I couldn't do much.
Tsunade had decided to investigate further on Danzo. From what I understood, Asuma and Kakashi were working together on it. My Love didn't tell me much about it. He probably wanted to protect me - I didn't mind. I had my own things to deal with. The upcoming Chunin Exams were a few weeks away. I was training every day still, Owl helping sometimes. I still felt uncomfortable around him, but I was thankful for the help.
I was developing new techniques with my Canary call. I developed a sharp wind-based whistle that could slice through the air. I found a new way to make my Canary call stronger, and even increase my senses to use the environment's sound to sense the area around me. My Darling had taught me a little more iryo-jutsu, something simple. He even taught me a few simple water jutsu, which I mostly just used to increase my resistance while I swam in training. I had a few more tests I needed to take, and a few books I needed to read. And only then would I get to Jounin. Uncle had already been looking down his nose at the books I had brought home. I was glad he wasn't trying to hide them from me. I'd like to think he was slowly coming to terms with my decision to stay.
I wasn't going to leave my Love or my new home behind.
But until then - the Chunin Exams.
End Chapter
AN: Hello all! I finally have a new chapter for you. Sorry for the delay. I had a hard time getting past the date (at first it was all from Kakashi's perspective and it just wasn't working). He's too shy right now to handle the big emotional scenes. I decided to do a mini time jump, skipping over the more boring stuff. I could have stretched out Oliver and Kakashi's clear tension, but I think moving to where Oliver is more willing to see Kakashi as a decent guy might be more interesting. Oliver hasn't really ever approved of any of the guys on principle. So I'm a little excited to see that. And soon get to Tami and Itachi finally meeting again, some other characters coming into play - and even how I'll handle Danzo and Owl. I had another idea how to deal with them, and I'm excited to get started with it.
Anyway - thank you all for your reviews and love!