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-When Star's Collide-
-PART 4-
In realms where love, eternal and divine,
Binds souls entwined, a tapestry aligned,
There lived a tale, enchanting and profound,
Of Adam's choice, where love was truly found.
The next night, after the grand engagement ball, Naruto trudged back to his room, utterly exhausted and emotionally battered. The day had been a parade of forced smiles, courteous nods, and endless conversations about the splendor of his impending marriage to Sasuke Uchiha. The ball had been a formal declaration of their engagement—a spectacle that had drawn the attention of nobles and socialites alike. Guests continued to gather, offering their blessings and gifts, making the event an ongoing celebration of two years until the grand wedding. Today was a tea party with Sasuke's family, where he had been on his best behavior. Engaging in polite small talk with Sasuke's father, mother, and brother, who was the most poise at the table. The setting was a beautiful garden at the family's vacation home, a reflection of the family's high status. The table was adorned with fine china and exquisite pastries, and the atmosphere was thick with an air of formality that seemed to suffocate genuine conversation.
Sasuke's father, a man of imposing stature and stern demeanor, presided over the gathering with an air of unapproachable authority. His mother, elegant and aloof, exchanged glances with her husband, her expression as unreadable as a marble statue. The real source of intrigue, however, was Itachi Uchiha, Sasuke's older brother. Itachi had a poise that was almost serene, a stark contrast to the more abrasive nature of Sasuke and their parents. He spoke rarely, choosing his words with deliberate care, and when he did, it was with a calm, measured tone that hinted at a deeper understanding of the world around him.
Itachi's presence at the tea party was both a source of fascination and a subtle provocation. His actions were calculated to unsettle Sasuke; he would gently kiss Naruto's hand with a playful glint in his eye, a gesture that made Naruto blush deeply and caused Sasuke to scowl in frustration. Itachi seemed to relish in the opportunity to provoke his younger brother, delighting in seeing him squirm.
Naruto couldn't help but marvel at the irony of Itachi's behavior. Despite the family's pompous and stuck-up demeanor, it was Itachi who displayed a hint of kindness, albeit wrapped in a veneer of mischief. The contrast between the elder brother's refined demeanor and Sasuke's more abrasive attitude was striking. It made Naruto wonder how such a compassionate figure could emerge from a household so steeped in rigid expectations and cold propriety.
Naruto had managed to maintain the façade of joy and grace throughout the evening, though the older Uchiha made the gathering more entertaining. Now, in the sanctuary of his room, he felt the weight of the day's demands crash over him. The soft glow of the dim lighting provided a semblance of peace, and the room was a sanctuary away from the prying eyes and relentless expectations of the outside world. Yet, even within these familiar walls, a sense of dread clung to him.
As he approached the bed, he noticed a figure lying there in the shadows. His heart skipped a beat, and he instinctively called out.
"Gaara?" but caught himself. Gaara was always meticulous about remaining hidden until he was sure Naruto was alone. The figure on his bed draped in shadows wasn't supposed to be here. A creeping sense of unease settled over him as he moved to pick up a candle nearby shining a light on the figure.
The illumination revealed Sasuke sprawled on the bed, his expression a blend of casual arrogance and cold resolve. Naruto's eyes widened in shock and disbelief.
"What are you doing here?" Naruto demanded his voice a mixture of anger and confusion. He had enough of Sasuke's presence throughout the day, the night was his only peace from him. "You shouldn't be in an unwed person's room at this hour. It's scandalous." Sasuke sat up, the light catching the sharp lines of his face. His eyes were cold, but a faint smirk played at his lips.
"Scandalous? Perhaps. But I suppose it's only fitting given the circumstances. After all, your new lover seems to be quite... open to late-night visits." His gaze was penetrating, and his tone carried a subtle threat. Naruto's heart raced, his mind scrambling to process the implications.
"What are you talking about?" Sasuke's eyes narrowed as he leaned forward, taking Naruto's chin into his hand roughly making the blonde look up at him.
"I happened to see someone in here last night. Someone who shouldn't be in your room and I also know that this could be a problem—one that might unravel everything we're working towards." Naruto's breath caught in his throat.
"You saw Gaara?" Sasuke's smirk widened slightly.
"Now is that his name?" He teased. "That makes this easier." Naruto's eyes widen realizing what he had done. He had revealed who Gaara was and with Sasuke's connections, he would have no trouble finding the young thief.
"If this continues, I might just have to ensure that his presence here isn't a threat to our plans. After all, it would be a shame if anything happened to someone so... involved with you." Naruto's eyes blazed with anger.
"You have no right to threaten him! Gaara means everything to me. He's the only one who understands me. You can't just control my life like this!" Sasuke's expression remained unmoved.
"You are utterly childish." The raven jeered. "In our world, your whims don't matter. What matters is the stability and power of our families. If you can't adhere to that, then it's my responsibility to make sure the path remains clear." Naruto's fists clenched, tears of frustration welling in his eyes.
"You're being cruel and heartless! How can you expect me to just abandon someone I love for the sake of your plans?"
"Because," Sasuke said, his voice cold and final, "our lives are governed by duty and strategy, not by personal desires. If you can't comply, I'll have to inform our fathers and take measures to remove any... distractions." Naruto's knees gave way, and he sank to the floor, tears streaming down his face.
"Please... Please don't do this to me..." He cried, practically begging with the older teen. "I need him Sasuke..." Sasuke's gaze was unyielding.
"Sentimental feelings don't fit into the structure we've built. You have to choose: either fulfill your role or face the consequences." The room fell into a heavy silence, punctuated only by Naruto's quiet sobs. Sasuke's words hung in the air, a painful reminder of the impossibility of his situation. He had to navigate a world where his happiness was secondary to political machinations and familial obligations. As Sasuke moved toward the door, his parting words were a chilling echo of his earlier threat.
"Remember, Naruto, if you continue to see him, I won't hesitate to act."
Naruto watched him leave, feeling a profound sense of loss and helplessness. The door closed behind Sasuke, leaving Naruto alone with the weight of his choices and the painful reality of his situation. The sanctuary of his room felt more like a prison, and the love he had fought so hard to protect now seemed impossibly out of reach.
"I hate you Sasuke..."
The next morning dawned with an air of muted gloom. Naruto moved through his day with a heavy heart, his once vibrant eyes now puffy and red from the tears he had shed the night before. He hadn't gotten a wink of sleep, staying up throughout the night. The weight of Sasuke's threats and the idea of Gaara being hurt by his actions had left him feeling hollow and defeated.
As he went about his duties, it was obvious to many around him, that something weighed heavy on his mind. The staff, always observant, noticed the change in their young lord. Whispers of concern fluttered among them, but they refrained from prying. Instead, they focused on offering subtle comfort, their actions speaking volumes of their empathy. Shizune, his main maid and confidant, was particularly perceptive. She noticed the strain in Naruto's posture and the weary glint in his eyes. With a kind but unobtrusive presence, she ensured that Naruto's breakfast was his favorite—freshly baked bread, honey, and fruit. As he sat at the table, she watched him with a mix of sympathy and concern.
Is everything alright, my lord?" Shizune asked softly as she cleared away the breakfast dishes. Her voice was gentle, but it carried the weight of her worry. Naruto forced a smile, though it didn't reach his eyes.
"I'm just tired, Shizune. There's been a lot on my mind." Shizune nodded, her gaze compassionate.
"If you need anything, please don't hesitate to ask. We're all here for you."
As the day progressed, the maids continued their efforts to provide small comforts. Taking their time with him going to his next meeting or fitting for his next formal engagements. In the evening, Shizune brought Naruto a tray of freshly baked cookies and a pot of tea. The sweet aroma filled the room, and Naruto's heart skipped a beat at the scent of his favorite treats—a small beacon of warmth on his otherwise bleak day.
"I thought you might need some company," she said, her tone warm and inviting. "Sometimes, a quiet moment with a friend is the best medicine."
Naruto managed a weak smile and nodded, though the sadness in his eyes remained. He accepted the tray with gratitude, though the sadness in his eyes remained. He took the tray to his sitting area near his window and placed it on the small table. He and Shizune sat together, her pouring tea into two porcelain teacups. He took a tentative bite of a cookie, the taste a small consolation amid his turmoil.
"I thought you might enjoy some tea and cookies." Naruto managed a weak smile, his gratitude apparent.
"Thank you, Shizune."
They sat in silence for a while, the comforting presence of the tea and cookies providing a slight reprieve from Naruto's heavy heart. Shizune's patience spoke volumes; she knew that sometimes the best support was to simply be present. Naruto, sensing the silence stretching longer than comfortable, finally spoke. He took a deep breath before he spoke.
"Shizune," He began, "there's something I need to tell you." The older maid's brow furrowed with concern.
"What is it, my lord?"
"For the past six years, I've been seeing someone..." Naruto hesitated, gathering his thoughts. "someone... other than Sasuke." Shizune's eyes widened in surprise. The revelation hit her hard—she had been so immersed in the details of Naruto's life that this affair had slipped completely under her radar.
"You've been seeing someone? All this time?" Naruto nodded, his voice trembling slightly.
"Yes. I didn't want to burden you with it." He confessed, his voice giving way to his real emotion. Tears began to form in his eyes "I've been trying to keep up appearances, to meet everyone's expectations, but... but it's become too much to handle."
"What do you mean?" Naruto's voice quivered as he continued, his eyes brimming with unshed tears. "Sasuke found out about the person I've been seeing. He threatened me last night, saying that if I kept seeing him, he would make sure their life... He said he'd use his influence to remove him..." Shizune's eyes widened in shock and anger. Her hands trembled as she set the teacup down, unable to hide her dismay.
"That... that's horrible, Naruto. I can't believe Sasuke would be so cruel." Naruto nodded, his face reddening with both anger and sadness.
"He said that sentimental feelings don't matter in the grand scheme of things, that everything is about duty and strategy. I tried to explain how much Gaara meant to me, but Sasuke just dismissed my feelings as childish. He made it clear that I either comply or face the consequences." The weight of Naruto's words seemed to hang in the air, a palpable tension between them. Shizune's eyes softened with a deep sorrow, and she rose from her seat. Moving swiftly to Naruto's side, she wrapped her arms around him, pulling him close in a comforting embrace. Her action was driven by a motherly instinct, even though she wasn't his mother.
"Shhh, it's alright, Naruto," she whispered, her voice soothing but edged with concern. "Nothing about loving someone is childish, it's the most selfless thing there is..." Naruto buried his face in her shoulder, his body shaking with the force of his sobs.
"I don't know what to do, Shizune. I love Gaara so much, but I don't want him to be hurt because of me. I can't bear the thought of losing him, and I'm scared of what Sasuke might do." Shizune stroked the top of her young lord's head with gentle touches. Shizune's heart ached as she held him, her own eyes misting over. The young lord she had seen grow up was now caught in a web of political machinations and personal anguish, and she felt helpless. She stroked his hair gently, trying to offer some semblance of comfort.
"I understand, Naruto. This is such a difficult position for you. Whatever happens, know I'm here for you. We will find a way to navigate this. It may not be easy, but I will support you as best as I can." The warmth of her embrace and her heartfelt words provided a small but precious relief to Naruto. He clung to her, finding solace in her presence. The reality of his situation was still daunting, but for the moment, the compassion of a friend helped ease some of his burdens.
The sun dipped below the horizon, casting long shadows across the room as the evening deepened. Naruto sat alone at his tea table, the tray of cookies and teacup now forgotten, his mind swirling with the weight of the day's events and the tumultuous emotions that accompanied them. The soft glow of the candles provided a muted, melancholy light that seemed to underscore his desolation.
As the last rays of daylight faded, a familiar sound echoed from the balcony—quiet footsteps and the gentle scrape of a window being pushed open. Gaara, ever the master of stealth, had climbed the balcony as he always did, expecting the warm welcome he had grown accustomed to. He called out softly, his voice laced with anticipation.
"Naruto?" Naruto turned slowly, his face illuminated by the dim light, revealing a pained smile that did not match the usual brightness Gaara was used to. The sight of Naruto's strained expression sent a pang of unease through Gaara. He approached Naruto, concern etched across his features.
"Naruto, what's wrong?" Gaara asked, his voice tinged with worry. He could see that something was deeply troubling his beloved, but he didn't know the full extent of the pain. Naruto took a deep breath, trying to steady his voice.
"Gaara, there's something I need to tell you." Naruto put his hand on his chest as if to steady his wildly beating heart. "I… I think we need to end our relationship." The words hit Gaara like a physical blow. His eyes widened in disbelief, and he reached out as if to touch Naruto, to reassure himself that this wasn't real.
"What are you talking about? Why would you say that?" Naruto's gaze dropped to the floor, unable to meet Gaara's eyes.
"It's not because of anything you've done," he said, forcing the words out. "It's… it's for my family. There are things going on that I can't control. I need to make this sacrifice." Gaara's confusion and hurt were written all over his face, it made it even harder to meet his gaze. In the six years he's known Gaara, the redhead has never shown such emotion, showing just how Naruto was breaking his heart.
"But why? Why are you pushing me away now, when we've been through so much together? You can't just… leave me like this." He could sense that there was more to Naruto's decision, that there was an underlying reason he wasn't being told.
Naruto's heart ached at the pain in Gaara's voice. He wanted to tell him the truth about Sasuke, but he knew it would only lead to more heartache and possibly danger.
"I'm sorry, Gaara. I truly am. This is something I have to do for the sake of my family's future. It's… it's beyond my control."
Gaara's face contorted with a mix of frustration and sorrow. "No! I won't accept this! We can find another way, we can—" Naruto shook his head, tears brimming in his eyes.
"Please, just understand. I don't want to hurt you, but I have to do this." Naruto turned his back to him as if to make his statement final. The silence that followed was heavy and fraught with unspoken pain. Gaara stood at the edge of the room, his back turned to Naruto as he faced the balcony he had just come through. His shoulders slumped, and he seemed to be grappling with the finality of Naruto's words.
"I can't leave without something to remember you by," Gaara finally said, his voice thick with emotion. Before Naruto could respond, Gaara closed the distance between them in a few swift steps, spinning the blonde around and cupping his face in his hands. Without waiting for a response, Gaara leaned in and captured Naruto's lips in a deep, passionate kiss. The intensity of the kiss spoke volumes of the love and sorrow that words could not convey. Naruto's initial shock melted into a desperate reciprocation, throwing his arms around the taller neck, his tears mingled with Gaara's as they poured their hearts into the kiss.
When they finally pulled apart, both were breathless and teary-eyed. Gaara looked at Naruto with a hint of profound sadness, his expression one of resignation and acceptance.
"I won't ever forget the time we had," Gaara whispered, his voice barely above a breath. "No matter what happens." Naruto nodded, his heart aching at the finality of their parting.
"I'll remember you too, Gaara. Always." With one last lingering look, Gaara turned and moved toward the balcony. The night air was cool and refreshing, a stark contrast to the warmth and intensity of their final kiss. As he climbed over the railing and disappeared into the darkness, Naruto watched him go, feeling a profound sense of loss.
The room seemed colder and more desolate now, the absence of Gaara's presence like a void that could never be filled. Naruto sank to back into his seat tears streaming down his face, the weight of his choices and the pain of their separation settling heavily on his shoulders. The love he had fought so hard to protect was now going to be a memory, and he was left to navigate a world that felt emptier and more daunting than ever before.
Naruto's heartache penetrated the quiet space. The last remnants of the fading twilight cast long, somber shadows across the floor, adding to the oppressive atmosphere. Naruto sat hunched over, his hands buried in his face, the weight of his recent decisions and the finality of his parting with Gaara overwhelming him. His face was streaked with tears, and his hands trembled as he clutched the remnants of their farewell.
Suddenly, a sharp knock on the door startled him. Naruto looked up, his heart pounding. The door creaked open, and Sasuke stepped inside, his face masked with an expression of mock concern. Sasuke's eyes, however, betrayed a glint of cruel satisfaction.
"I heard you were upset," Sasuke began, his voice dripping with insincere sympathy. "I just wanted to say… you did the right thing. It's tough but necessary for our future." Naruto's eyes flared with immediate anger. The mockery in Sasuke's tone was like a fresh wound on top of his existing pain. He could no longer contain his fury. In a swift, desperate move, Naruto grabbed the teapot from the table, its contents still warm from the tea he had barely touched. With all the strength his anguished heart could muster, he hurled the teapot at Sasuke.
Sasuke's smirk widened as he sidestepped gracefully, and with a swift motion, he slammed the door shut. The teapot crashed into the door with a shattering force, the porcelain exploding into a myriad of fragments. Scalding tea splattered against the door and the wall, the room filled with the sharp scent of broken china and spilled tea. Naruto's scream of frustration and heartbreak followed the shattering of the teapot.
"I hate you, Sasuke! I hate you so much!" His voice was a tortured howl, echoing through the room with raw, unfiltered pain. From the other side of the door, Sasuke's voice oozed with mockery.
"Is this what you were reduced to, Naruto? Throwing tantrums like a child? It's almost poetic, really. You've been playing the part of the dutiful fiancé so well, but now look at you. Reduced to this… pathetic display." Sasuke's voice was tinged with a cruel satisfaction as he continued, "You know, I was outside listening the whole time. It was quite amusing to hear you beg for mercy from me, only to have to break your heart yourself. How does it feel knowing that your own choices, manipulated though they may be, have led you to this? To betray someone you love so dearly just to comply with our family's demands?"
Naruto sank to his knees amid the wreckage of the teapot, his breaths coming in ragged gasps. His hands were shaking as he tried to gather the larger pieces of porcelain, but his movements were clumsy and disoriented. Even in his storm of emotion, he knew breaking the expansive teapot was wrong of him. The reality of his situation, coupled with Sasuke's cruel taunts, left him feeling utterly defeated and hollow.
Sasuke's voice, laced with mockery, cut through the silence once more. "You know, Naruto, I don't think you'll ever truly escape the consequences of your decisions. The path you've chosen will always be littered with reminders of what you've lost. I hope you remember this moment well—it's the cost of playing your part in this grand scheme." With that, Sasuke turned on his heel and walked away, leaving Naruto alone with the fragments of the teapot and the remnants of his broken resolve. The door closed behind him with a finality that only heightened Naruto's sense of isolation. The room, now colder and more desolate, seemed to close in around him as he tried to piece together the shattered fragments of his life.
The echoes of his scream and the sound of the teapot's destruction were harsh reminders of the turmoil that had engulfed him. Alone in the darkness, Naruto felt the weight of his choices more heavily than ever, the oppressive quiet of the room amplifying his despair.
-TWO YEARS LATER-
Two years had passed in a blur of shadow and light, with the wedding day finally arriving—a day that was supposed to symbolize the culmination of a grand union, but for Naruto, it was a day heavy with sorrow and resignation. The sun rose over the grand estate in a golden hue, casting a warm light over the meticulously manicured gardens and the lavishly decorated halls. The air was filled with the hum of anticipation and the quiet bustle of servants preparing for the ceremony.
In the opulent bridal suite, Naruto sat before a grand mirror, his reflection a poignant picture of conflicted emotions. The room was a cascade of delicate silks and intricate lace, with floral arrangements and candles adding to the ornate decor. The walls, adorned with tapestries and portraits of long-gone ancestors, seemed to bear witness to the weight of tradition that hung over the room like a shroud.
Naruto's attire was a masterpiece of formal craftsmanship—a ceremonial robe of rich blue fabric, embroidered with gold thread and encrusted with jewels. It was a robe designed not for comfort or personal taste, but for the grandeur and expectations of the occasion. As the maid and servants worked around him, adjusting the final touches of the elaborate ensemble, their chatter was a background murmur that did little to penetrate the fog of Naruto's melancholy.
Each layer of clothing, each piece of jewelry, was a reminder of the life he had been forced into—a life bound by duty and expectations, far removed from the dreams he had once cherished. The heavy fabric of the robe felt like a tangible weight on his shoulders, symbolizing the chains of tradition that bound him to this path.
Shizune, who had been a constant source of quiet support over the years, was now by Naruto's side, her own expression a mixture of sadness and sympathy. She adjusted the folds of Naruto's attire with a gentle touch, her hands steady and practiced.
"Everything looks perfect, my lord," she said softly, her voice tinged with the same sorrow that had become a familiar companion for both of them. "You look truly regal." Naruto forced a faint smile, though it barely masked the pain in his eyes.
"Thank you, Shizune. It's just… hard to believe this day has come." She nodded, understanding more than she could articulate. The silence that followed was filled with the soft rustle of fabric and the occasional clink of jewelry. The room, despite its splendor, felt suffocating, its beauty a cruel reminder of what Naruto was giving up.
The ceremony was set to take place at the grand cathedral across town, a majestic structure with towering spires and intricate stained glass windows. The Cathedral's old-world charm, its interior a marvel of ornate decoration and solemnity. Naruto's journey there would be marked by a parade of public spectacle, adding another layer of weight to his already burdened heart.
As the time drew closer, Naruto was ushered into a lavishly decorated carriage, its exterior adorned with flowers and gold trim. The carriage ride to the Cathedral was a procession through streets lined with eager onlookers, all hoping to catch a glimpse of the future Count. The cheers and the buzz of excitement from the crowd were a jarring contrast to the heavy silence within the carriage. Naruto gazed out of the window as the carriage slowly made its way through the throngs of people. The festive atmosphere outside only heightened the sense of isolation he felt. The cheerful faces and bright colors of the crowd seemed to mock the gravity of his own situation, a painful reminder of the life he was about to leave behind.
As the carriage arrived at the Cathedral, Naruto stepped out, his heart sinking with every footstep. The grandeur of the Cathedral's entrance, with its towering doors and elaborate carvings, was both awe-inspiring and intimidating. Inside, the grand hall was a spectacle of opulence—cascading floral arrangements and glittering chandeliers adorned every surface, and the air was thick with the scent of roses and lilies.
Guests from noble families and distant lands had gathered, their murmurs of excitement and approval filling the air as they awaited the start of the ceremony. Naruto's heart ached as he glanced at the people gathered around the steps and carriage, held back by guards, cheering for him. Knowing that beyond this moment lay a new chapter he had not chosen.
As he walked down the opulent corridor towards the grand hall, each step felt heavy with the burden of his choices. The ceremonial music played softly in the background, amplifying his inner turmoil. He moved with the grace dictated by tradition, but every step felt like a step further from the life he had once envisioned with Gaara. When he finally reached the grand entrance, he paused for a moment to take in the sight of the assembled guests and the grandeur of the setting. The hall was a stage set for the grand union between Naruto and Sasuke, a spectacle of tradition and ceremony. The thought of exchanging vows and sealing a future he had not chosen made his heart ache with profound sadness.
Sasuke stood at the altar, his expression a mask of composed satisfaction. His eyes met Naruto's as he started down the aisle. He smirked, a cold glimmer of triumph hidden beneath his seemingly placid exterior. The contrast between Sasuke's composed demeanor and Naruto's visible distress was stark, but it was clear to Naruto that Sasuke's victory was now complete.
In the seedy underbelly of town Tamari and Kankuro sat plotting their next move. The bustling streets outside were filled with celebratory crowds, lining up to catch a glimpse of the future Count. However, in the dimly lit, smoky confines of a rundown bar, Tamari and Kankuro discussed their plans in hushed tones.
Tamari leaned across the table, her eyes glinting with mischief as she spoke.
"With everyone out in the streets for the wedding, now's the perfect time to hit those wealthy homes. No one will be paying attention." Kankuro nodded, his expression one of eager anticipation.
"We could clean up tonight if we play our cards right. They're all distracted by the festivities. We just need to be quick and careful."
Across from them, Gaara sat in stoic silence. His face was an inscrutable mask, but his siblings knew better than to push him. They had long since learned to avoid setting Gaara off. His eyes, however, betrayed an emotion beyond their understanding—a tumult of thoughts and feelings that seemed to have little to do with their conversation.
As Tamari and Kankuro continued their plans, Gaara's mind was a storm of thoughts about Naruto. He pictured Naruto in the grand ceremony, trapped in a world he had once been able to touch but could no longer. The sadness of knowing Naruto would be standing at the end of that aisle, bound by duty rather than love, gnawed at him. He wished more than anything that he could be the one standing beside Naruto, sharing in that moment meant for them.
Unable to sit still any longer, Gaara abruptly rose from the table. He left the bar in a huff, his footsteps echoing against the cobblestones as he wandered aimlessly through the city. His walk led him through winding alleys and past rows of dimly lit shops, his thoughts consumed by Naruto. Eventually, he found himself standing across the street from the Grand Cathedral, his feet must have known he needed to see him
As the carriage carrying Naruto arrived, Gaara's heart sank. From his vantage point, he saw Naruto step out, looking every bit the regal figure he was meant to be. The beauty of Naruto's attire, combined with the grandeur of the Cathedral, was a bitter reminder of the life Gaara wished he could have shared with him. The sorrowful look in Naruto's eyes, a stark contrast to the festive surroundings, struck Gaara deeply.
In that moment, Gaara fought against the urge to run across the street and sweep Naruto away from the suffocating grandeur of the ceremony. He reminded himself, with a painful ache, that Naruto had chosen this path—a path defined by tradition and duty rather than personal desire. Yet, seeing the sadness in Naruto's eyes made it impossible for Gaara to ignore the crushing reality of their separation.
As Naruto entered the Cathedral and made his way to the altar, Gaara remained rooted in place. His mind raced, torn between his longing to rescue Naruto and the painful acknowledgment of Naruto's chosen life.
Inside the Cathedral, the opulent hall was filled with the hum of anticipation as the preacher prepared to begin. Naruto stood beside Sasuke, his posture rigid with restraint. The grandeur of the setting, the murmurs of the guests, and the solemnity of the moment only heightened his sense of isolation.
As the preacher's voice began to intone the sacred words of the ceremony, Naruto closed his eyes. A deep sense of selfishness enveloped him, a silent plea for something that felt out of reach. In that fleeting moment, he prayed with all his heart that Gaara would somehow come and save him from this solemn farce.
The preacher's voice echoed through the hall, and Naruto's eyes remained closed, his heart aching with a feeling of profound sorrow. The life he had been forced into felt like a heavy shroud, and despite the beauty and tradition surrounding him, he could only hope for a miracle that would allow him to escape this path he had been bound to.
"Please… save me, Gaara," Naruto thought to himself, his heart aching with the weight of the ceremony and the life he was being forced into. In the midst of his silent plea, a deafening crash echoed through the Cathedral, causing the guests to gasp in shock. The large circular stained-glass window above the entrance shattered, sending a cascade of glass raining down on the attendants and disrupting the serene atmosphere of the wedding.
Chaos erupted as the shards of glass fell, clinking and scattering across the marble floor. The noise was almost deafening, and people screamed, scrambling away from the debris. Naruto's heart raced, and he turned his gaze upward, only to see Gaara descending through the broken window, his entrance as dramatic as it was unexpected.
"Gaara…?" Naruto whispered, disbelief and hope mingling in his voice. He watched as Gaara landed gracefully in the aisle he had just walked down, the broken glass crunching beneath his boots. Their eyes met, and for a moment, time seemed to stand still.
"Naruto…" Gaara's voice was soft but filled with an intense emotion that made Naruto's heart leap. However, before the shock could fully settle, Naruto's father, ever the figure of authority, reacted swiftly. He called for the guards stationed around the Cathedral. They moved quickly, forming a tight perimeter around Gaara. Naruto's heart pounded in his chest as he saw the guards closing in, their weapons drawn and ready. Without thinking, Naruto bolted from Sasuke's side, desperation driving his actions. Sasuke's hand shot out, grabbing Naruto's arm with a mixture of annoyance and confusion.
"What are you doing?" Sasuke demanded, his tone sharp and frustrated. He tried to pull Naruto back, but Naruto wrenched his arm free, his eyes blazing with defiance.
"I have to go to him!" Naruto shouted back, his voice raw with determination. He pushed past Sasuke, ignoring the bewildered look on his face. Naruto rushed towards Gaara, but the guards were closing in, their movements swift and deliberate. Gaara's eyes never left Naruto, his expression a mix of fierce resolve and deep concern. Naruto reached out, trying to bridge the gap between them.
"Gaara, you shouldn't have come!" Naruto cried out, his voice choked with emotion. "This is insane!"
"I couldn't let you go through with this," Gaara shouted back, his voice cutting through the clamor. "Not without a fight!" As the guards surrounded Gaara, Naruto's father stepped forward, his face a mask of stern authority.
"Seize him!" he commanded, his voice echoing through the hall. The guards moved in to restrain Gaara, but Naruto dashed forward, placing himself between Gaara and the approaching soldiers. His arms outstretched like a shield to protect Gaara. His heart was pounding furiously, and his breath came in ragged gasps.
"Stop!" Naruto cried out. "He's not a threat! He's here for me!" The guards hesitated, their eyes shifting between Naruto and Gaara. The small blonde turned to Gaara taking him in as it's been years since he saw him. The room was a whirlwind of confusion, the once orderly ceremony now reduced to chaos. The guests watched in stunned silence, unsure of how to react.
Gaara's gaze softened as he looked at Naruto, the pain and desperation in his eyes mirroring Naruto's own.
"I'm here, Naruto," he said, his voice steady. "I'm here to take you away from this." Naruto's eyes widened at Gaara's words. His wish, the heavens had heard his pleas. The blonde's eyes shimmered with unshed tears, but he smiled joyously at the redhead and nodded feverishly.
The redhead was always there to cater to his childish whims.
Seeing the turmoil unfolding, Naruto's father stepped forward with a grim expression.
"Naruto, what is the meaning of this!?" He shouted, making Naruto instantly jump at the voice. Gaara protectively wrapped his arms around Naruto, pulling him close. Naruto looked up at his father, his expression a blend of anguish and defiance. He had braced himself for this confrontation, but the reality of it still stung sharply. He took a deep breath, his voice steady despite the tumult around him.
"I'm sorry, Father," Naruto said, his gaze never wavering from the older man. "But I can't go through with this. I love Gaara. He is the love of my life, and I can't marry someone else." A stunned silence fell over the Cathedral as Naruto's confession sank in. The guests, their faces a tableau of shock and curiosity, whispered among themselves, their eyes darting between Naruto and Gaara.
"Did you hear? Lord Naruto has a secret lover…"
"Unbelievable! All this time, and no one knew."
"The scandal will ruin them. How could he do this to his family?"
Naruto's father, his face contorted with fury, stepped forward. "Naruto," His voice was cold and cutting, filled with a bitter disappointment dipped in barely restrained rage. "Do you realize what you've done? You've brought disgrace upon this family. This scandal will ruin us!" Naruto's eyes filled with tears, but he held his ground.
"I understand," he said softly, his voice breaking with emotion. "But I can't live a lie. Not anymore." Gaara's arms tightened around Naruto, his presence a solid anchor amid the storm of voices and chaos. He looked around at the guards who were still hesitant, their weapons lowered but their faces reflecting their uncertainty. The redhead's gaze was unwavering as he faced Naruto's father, a silent vow of support and love shining in his eyes. The gravity of Naruto's declaration was palpable, each word resonating with the weight of years of suppressed emotion and silent rebellion.
The commotion outside had shifted to a frenzied uproar, with the crowd of onlookers craning their necks to catch glimpses of the unfolding drama. The once-celebratory atmosphere had turned into a spectacle of scandal and rebellion. Naruto's father, though visibly trembling with anger, could see the resolve in Naruto's eyes. He took a deep breath, his fists clenched at his sides.
"This is your last chance," he said, his voice low and dangerous. "Come back to your senses, Naruto."
"No," Naruto replied firmly, shaking his head. "I won't be coerced into a marriage that isn't mine to choose." He looked up at Gaara, his eyes filled with new resolve.
"Gaara is the one I'll marry."
Sasuke, having been sidelined by the chaos, watched the scene unfold with a mixture of frustration and helplessness. He had expected the day to go smoothly, his triumph in securing Naruto now overshadowed by the dramatic turn of events. The weight of Naruto's words and the audible whispers of the crowd seemed to compound the tension in the room. Naruto's father took a deep, shuddering breath, his face red with anger and humiliation.
"Do you have any idea what you're doing to us? You'll be disowned! You're disgracing this family, breaking our legacy for a selfish whim!" Naruto turned from his father and looked up at Gaara.
"I know what I'm doing," Naruto said quietly, but his voice carried through the cavernous hall with a clarity that cut through the din. His eyes were filled with tears, but his resolve was unshakeable. "I'm choosing to live a life that's true to myself, not one dictated by obligation or duty." His father's face contorted further with fury and disbelief.
"You think you can just abandon your responsibilities? You'll be nothing but a stain on this family's honor!"
Naruto took a deep breath, his hand still tightly clasped with Gaara's as he looked back at his father. "I've lived in that shadow long enough," he said, his voice growing stronger with each word. "I've played the part you wanted, and followed the rules you set, but I can't do it anymore." He took another deep breath.
"I want a life I can be proud of with this man, not with one you choose."
He turned slightly to face Gaara, the love in his eyes clear despite the chaos around them.
"Gaara, I'm sorry, that night you came to me, I should have told you the truth!" He cried. "I should have run away with you then!" Gaara quieted Naruto.
"It's ok, I understand, I'm here now." Gaara glanced to the entrance behind them. "The life we want is on the other side, are you ready?" Naruto smiled at him, his grin bright with utter happiness.
"Yeah!" Turning to his father, Naruto bowed deeply, his voice trembling with both respect and desperation."Please, Father just let us go in peace!" He begged, the Cathedral fell silent, the excitement of the crowd once there to celebrate a union now silent with anxious anticipation. Naruto's father, his face a mask of grim determination, took a long, deep breath. His gaze softened, but only slightly, as he spoke.
"Leave," he said finally, his voice strained but resolute. "But know this: you are disowned. You will never see any of us again, and you will have no support from me in any form." Naruto looked up at him, a mix of relief and gratitude filling his eyes.
"Oh thank you, father, thank you!" He looked back at Gaara going back to his side. With a final, wistful look at his father, Naruto took Gaara's hand. The two of them turned toward the grand entrance, stepping into the sun together for the first time. The grandeur of the Cathedral and the weight of old expectations were left behind, replaced by the freedom and hope of a new beginning.
As Naruto and Gaara stepped out of the Cathedral into the daylight, the once-celebratory atmosphere had shifted to one of stunned silence and quiet murmurs. The crowd that had been so eager to witness the grand union now stood in shocked awe, their conversations subdued as they followed the unexpected drama. The city's vibrancy seemed muted compared to the whirlwind of emotions and revelations that had unfolded inside the grand hall.
Gaara and Naruto walked hand in hand, their expressions reflecting a mix of exhilaration and relief. The air outside was fresh, carrying with it the promise of a new beginning. The grandeur of the Cathedral and the weight of old expectations were now behind them, replaced by the freedom and hope of their shared future.
As they made their way down the steps and into the bustling streets, Naruto turned his head to the sky, a thoughtful smile playing on his lips.
"So, what now?" he asked, his voice light but filled with anticipation. "We're finally free to choose our path." Gaara's eyes sparkled with a hint of mischief, that Naruto hadn't seen before.
"I've been thinking," he began, his tone casual, "maybe we should open a café." Naruto's eyebrows shot up in surprise as he looked at Gaara.
"A café? That's... not what I expected you to suggest." Gaara chuckled softly, squeezing Naruto's hand.
"I've always enjoyed the idea of creating a space where we could have peace. Plus, it would give us a chance to work together on something we both love." Naruto's surprise melted into a warm, genuine smile.
"That sounds wonderful, actually. I never imagined you'd be interested in something like that, but I like it. It could be a great new chapter for us." Gaara nodded, a serene smile on his face.
"We could create a place that's uniquely ours—where people can come and find a little bit of happiness and comfort, just like we have." Naruto's eyes twinkled with mischief as he glanced down at the ornate jewelry he was wearing, a remnant of the day's formalities.
"And maybe we can use some of this fancy jewelry as our down payment," he joked, giving Gaara a playful nudge. Gaara laughed, the sound a refreshing contrast to the tension of the day.
"I do know a place." He stopped walking, and Naruto doing the same turned to face the redhead. Gaara let go of Naruto's hand and took the blonde's face into his. "But I'm confident we can build something beautiful together, regardless." Naruto's heart raced as Gaara's gaze locked with his. Without a word, Gaara leaned in, his lips meeting Naruto's in a kiss that was both gentle and intense. The kiss began softly, a delicate exploration that quickly grew into a passionate affirmation of their love. It was a kiss of deep longing and newfound freedom, a melding of hearts that spoke louder than words ever could.
In that moment, the world fell away. The city's noise, the weight of old expectations—all faded into the background as their kiss became an anchor in the sea of uncertainty. The intensity of their connection conveyed a promise—a commitment to face whatever came their way, hand in hand.
As they finally parted, their foreheads rested together, their breaths mingling in the cool air. The kiss had been a silent vow, an expression of their shared determination to face the future with love as their guiding light. The uncertainty of what lay ahead seemed less daunting with the warmth of their connection enveloping them.
They resumed walking, their hearts beating in harmony as they navigated the bustling streets. Each step they took was a testament to their resolve, each glance shared a confirmation of their unwavering bond. Their future might be uncertain, filled with challenges and unknowns, but they faced it with a profound sense of peace.
In the face of life's unpredictability, their love remained a steadfast beacon, illuminating their path with clarity and hope. Together, they were ready to embrace whatever came next, secure in the certainty of their love.
Again, thanks for reading. I wrote this story to get me back in the saddle of it all, as well as get this story that's been rolling around in my head for years out.
See you on my next story.
-Maka A Kurosaki