Growing together, growing apart

Ok, here is the last chapter of GTGA. An Epilogue can be added later if requested. I’m not requiring a specific amount of reviews or anything like that, just if anybody wants it, let me know.

I was a little discouraged by the lack of response to the previous chapter, so I hope that my further works provide more entertainment. I had been working on some other stories that I unfortunately lost when my computer went explode-y, so I’ve had to rewrite from memory, and noticed how similar two of them were, so I’m just conglomerating those into one story that will start being released shortly. It will likely be the only MPreg I will ever write; a plot bunny knocked me over and bounced on me repeatedly so I’m just going to go with it.

Thank you to all those who have reviewed and encouraged me throughout this story.


XxXxXxX

Sunlight streamed through the windows, illuminating the small apartment in Konoha. A few empty ramen cups on a table and clothes strewn over the otherwise tidy space gave evidence that the occupant had not been concerned with cleanliness the night before. Golden rays created a shaggy halo around a tan face as eyelids slowly blinked open from the brightness dragging the young man from his sleep. Red rimmed and baggy eyes provided further proof of a restless night.

Groaning, Naruto rolled to his side curling his body around a pillow while pulling a sheet over his head to block the light. He was not quite ready to face the day yet. There had been no momentary cheer at the bright morning then the downing realization of the events of the day prior. He woke up well aware of the facts of his world; Ero-sennin was dead and Sasuke did not want him.

He briefly contemplated marking all chirping birds as his eternal enemies, but thought that that might just be a little petty of him. It was too much to ask that the world stop and take a breath with him. No, he had to move with it or be left behind. 'Troublesome as the effort would be.' He did not even have the energy to chuckle at his thoughts taking on the voice of the lazy genius of Konoha.

Sighing, Naruto sat up in bed and stretched his arm muscles, feeling his body loosen up before standing and continuing his morning stretch. Once he felt limber enough, he proceeded with his morning routine into the bathroom.

It was later, with a stomach satiated on instant ramen and getting ready to leave his apartment that the blond noticed a note addressed to him by the front door. ‘Someone must have slipped it under the door after I went to bed.’

Opening the letter, Naruto felt his breath catch when he recognized Sasuke’s handwriting. Stumbling backwards, he eventually landed in a chair and, heart pounding, began to read the message.


'Naruto,

I’m sorry for not being able to reply to you last night. I should have, but I don’t know what to say. This situation is hard for me - Naruto snorted at that – shut up, usuratonkachi, I know it is hard for you as well.

I will be completely honest. – a golden eyebrow arched – I care for you. You’re my best friend and I never want to let you go. I want you with me, always, but to express love…that’s dangerous. - Naruto was confused. Dangerous? –

If we were together, as lovers exclusively and officially, there would be no going back. You could never leave me, I wouldn’t let you. I will always have enemies and I do not want you ever caught in my fight again, I do not want to see you hurt because of me again. Ever.

I know that I could get a surrogate mother for a child if I wanted, I’m an Uchiha, it wouldn’t be hard. – another snort - But what about you? Would you truly be happy with that? You deserve so much more; you deserve a stable family, whole and happy, not one with the history that I would bring with me.

You could have so much more than me.

Naruto, I had to leave early this morning for an extended mission that should last about a month. I promise to use that time to consider all that we could and should be. I promise to have an answer for you when I return, but I cannot promise what it will be. There are many reasons why we shouldn’t be together. I’m sorry that I have to do it this way, but I need the time. I hope that you will also take the time to think about everything that I’ve said.

Sasuke'


Naruto was completely still, the letter sitting innocuously on the table between his hands. Clear blue eyes looked out the window at the peaceful scene of Konoha continuing on, seemingly without a worry. ‘Safe…’

When considering the welfare of a village and a country, ‘safe’ definitely seems to be the ideal situation. But in a relationship, is safe what he wants? Does he want to have a safe romance? Is there such a thing? Naruto knew that with Sasuke, passion and pain travel the same road. Can their passion last and overwhelm the pain they both feel? Was it worth it?

With a sigh and the beginnings of a smile, Naruto returned his attention to the letter in front of him. ”Alright, bastard. I’ll wait to hear what you have to say, but I’m more stubborn than you. Remember that, teme.”

XxXxXxXxXxX

Tsunade stared unblinkingly at the other blond in the room. She knew he had a lot of personal issues that he was working through and that what she had just told him was not going to make him feel better, but it would help in the long run. She was sure of it.

Waiting for him to respond to the statement, she observed the young man. He seemed worn, but, she was relieved to note, not tarnished. Whatever was going on in his mind and heart, it hadn’t broken him. He had not apologized for his outburst the last time they saw each other, but she did not need him to. She felt the same grief and anger that he did, but the fact that he was standing before her with no looks of accusation let her know that he was no longer blaming her for Jiraiya’s death.

Bringing her attention to his parting lips, she prepared herself for whatever exclamation he was going to give her.

“What?” The softly asked question filled with disbelief, and a hint of excitement, surprised her. Perhaps he didn’t understand her the first time? Well, this was Naruto she was dealing with.

“As I just said, gaki, Fukasaku-sama will take over your training. You will go with him to the Myouboku Moutain to learn the hermit arts. Jiraiya wanted you to have this education and I agree. The lessons you will receive will help you against Akatsuki.”

Naruto chewed on his lower lip, looking conflicted. Despite everything, Tsunade had expected him to jump at the chance for the type of intensive training that he was being allowed to have.

“When will I leave?”

“You have today and tomorrow to prepare and then you will leave two mornings from now.”

“How long will I be gone?”

The Hokage placed her elbows on the desk before her and linked her fingers together to provide a rest for her chin. “I don’t know. It took Jiraiya years to finish his hermit training.”

“Years?” The exclamation didn’t surprise her, but the desperation on his face did. “I can’t be gone that long! I have to be here when Sas-, um…” Tsunade raised an inquiring brow, silently asking him to continue. He sighed, holding his arms before him, begging her to understand. “I have to be here.”

“Naruto, you have to go. This training is very important. Anything worth your attention will be here when you get back.”

“I can’t be gone!” He was yelling now, as if the volume would make her understand his need.

“Naruto!” It was so rare for her to use her ‘Hokage’ voice with him that he instantly quieted. “If the Great Head Hermit will allow, you may visit occasionally during your training, but you will go.” Holding up a hand to forestall any further debate, she continued. “Trust me, this is for the best.”

“Can’t I leave later, in a few months, after I’ve worked out some things here?” Anger and now bargaining.

“No. I’m sorry, but no. You will leave in two days. End of discussion!” she raised her voice again when he opened his mouth to continue his protests.

His shoulders slumped as he admitted defeat. Lowering his eyes he nodded his head. “I’ll go get packed.”

Acceptance.

XxXxXxXxXxX

Two days later, Naruto was met at the gates by the Hokage and all his friends that were currently in the village to bid him farewell. Shikamaru and Temari stood close to each other as they gave their wishes for his safe journey. Neji provided stoic words of encouragement. Well, as encouraging as Neji ever gets.

Iruka-sensei had treated him to ramen the night before and was a silent supportive presence. Kakashi-sensei did not say much, but had courteously put his constant companion away during the good-byes. Naruto vaguely wondered if the man’s porn could breathe after being in a pocket for so long.

Even Sakura had given him a tearful hug and he appreciated her thoughtfulness. He was disgusted with himself for wondering if she would take advantage of his absence to renew her pursuit of the youngest Uchiha. It was not like him to be so bitter and he shoved those feelings down as far as he could. Such thoughts were beneath him and unworthy of her. He did not doubt Sakura’s friendship, he would not.

With a large smile that almost hurt to see, Konoha’s most surprising ninja said farewell.

Before he could leave, he was enveloped in a bone-crushing hug, his head buried in Tsunade’s neck.

“Train hard” she whispered in his ear. ‘Hurry back’ was left unsaid, but understood.

“I will,” he whispered back, “baa-chan.” Pulling away, he went to stand next to the toads and in a reverse summons, was gone.

Outwardly, the Hokage ordered everyone back to their duties. Inwardly, Tsunade was radiant with relief. He forgave her.

XxXxXxXxXxX

Sasuke looked up from the tree branch he and his team stopped on to see the gates of Konoha between the swaying leaves of the surrounding forest. Never before had he returned to the village and felt like he was coming home in the way that he did now. With a gesture of his head to the village, his companions shot forward with him not far behind.

The mission had gone well; he had been sent to scout areas around Rice Country with the members of Team 8. Since the death of Orochimaru, the region had been in chaos with rogue nin and bandits harassing civilians in several towns. However, while he had been preparing for the Chuunin exams, the area stabilized. His team had been sent to find out why.

He was surprised to find that he did not mind working with Team 8. Kiba was loud and obnoxious and though he would never be able to compare to the dobe, Sasuke was able to put up with the behavior. He might have even found it strange to be on a mission for Konoha and not have a loudmouth near him. He got to know Hinata, whom he had never paid much attention to in the past. Seeing her work had raised her in his estimation and he found her to be a competent kunoichi and he felt confident in trusting her as a teammate in a hostile situation. Sasuke felt the same about Shino; the Aburame’s kikai bugs were very effective in their scouting operation.

Sasuke was relieved that he had had no problems being temporarily assigned to Team 8. It was further proof that he would be able to survive in Konoha, that he would be able to work with others, and not just Naruto.

As they approached the Hokage tower, he found himself keeping an eye out for sunshine blond hair. He was aware of every person, structure, and alley the passed. His senses were tuned to a single presence and he couldn't find him.

Needless to say, Sasuke had made his decision and he wanted nothing more than to blow off their meeting with the Hokage and find his dobe.

"Damn, Uchiha, if I didn't know better, I'd say you were excited. Don't tell me you're actually happy to be home?" Kiba knew by now not to invade Sasuke's personal bubble. That didn't stop him from cracking jokes at the young Uchiha's expense.

"Hn." Of course, that didn't mean that Sasuke felt like bantering with the dog-boy. That was a privilege reserved for Naruto.

"As chatty as Shino." Kiba muttered and quickly thought it wise to shut up when he felt a glare directed at him from his bug-loving teammate. A sound, suspiciously similar to a giggle erupted from Hinata, but when her fellow shinobi turned to her wide-eyed, her head was down and her pace quickened towards the tower.

Without any further discussion, they made their way to Shizune who escorted them to the Hokage. Their debriefing went by tediously as they explained that a clan, native to the region before Orochimaru took over, had gained power and elected a new Otokage. There would soon be an official Sound village which, fortunately, did not appear to have any hostile intentions towards Konoha. Tsunade questioned them thoroughly; weary of a new power emerging.

Once they finished explaining what felt like every detail they each experienced, the meeting was over and Sasuke was eager to leave the office.

"Sasuke, stay a moment. The rest of you are dismissed." As Team 8 departed, Tsunade turned her full attention to the young Uchiha. "I thought I should tell you that Naruto has left the village for further training and will likely be gone a long time."

He hadn't realized just how warm he had been feeling since entering the village that afternoon until he felt the coldness that drenched his being like frozen water at those words. Naruto was gone? Was it because of him? Was the dobe running away because Sasuke had been such an ass? He should not have taken so long to get his thoughts together, he should not have hesitated to answer Naruto's love. His fear had been to lose the blond and now he was gone.

"Is there anything else?" Sasuke had to exert a monumental amount of control on himself to not allow the heart-breaking emotions to show and to keep his voice steady.

Amber eyes narrowed as Tsunade observed the dark-haired young man, his apparent lack of reaction to the news she had given annoyed her. Though, she had to admit, she doubted she would ever see him overcome with emotion and wasn't sure if she would want to. "You may go."

With the barest nod of respect to his Hokage, Sasuke left to return to his home. He did not pay attention to the people on the streets or the vendors he passed. He watched the sun fall lower behind the buildings. No longer was there a golden orb surrounded by pure blue. Now he saw the sky lit up with the colors of fire, deepening till a bloody curtain covered the horizon which would soon open to the night sky.

Shaking his head at his fanciful thoughts, he noticed that he had arrived at his home and had been standing there for some time. Taking out his keys and unlocking the door, Sasuke wondered if he would always enter his apartment and feel the emptiness he currently felt.

As he went about unpacking his belongings and preparing his evening meal, he remembered times that he would come home with Naruto. They would fix their meals while discussing the day's training, with the obligatory groping session when the mood struck. Or they'd have an argument and wrestle and then, possibly, make out while grimacing around the split lips. They would sit together and eat and Naruto's table manners would improve simply by learning through example. Sasuke found it interesting how Naruto really did pride himself on the cleanliness of himself and his belongings considering the general crudeness in his behavior. He never asked, but he assumed it was yet another instance where Naruto simply wasn't taught about what was appropriate and what wasn't.

After finishing his meal, cleaning up, and showering, Sasuke entered his bedroom again as it was time to sleep. Stripping down to his boxers, he did a double take at the object sitting on his bedside table. Since when was there a ceramic frog, an ugly one at that, in his apartment? Lifting it up for closer inspection, he wondered if this was some sort of odd gift from Naruto or a joke from someone else.

At the thought that maybe Naruto hadn’t left him without a word and angry at being rejected, Sasuke felt hope. He was annoyed at how melodramatic he had been acting since hearing that Naruto had gone. He sat on his bed contemplating the object he held in his hands, twisting and twirling it to view at all angles. 'What are you telling me, Naruto?'

Sasuke felt a crack along the base and, inspecting it closely, saw something stashed within the ugly green and orange amphibian grinning at the floor. It took some maneuvering, but he was able to retrieve the piece a paper without damaging the little frog. He just couldn't bring himself to break the possible gift from Naruto. He unfolded the paper and read the message left for him.


'Sasuke,

I did what you asked. I thought about everything we've been through and what could be in the future and my feelings haven't changed. I love you and I don't want to stop. Maybe there are reasons why we shouldn't be together, but I don't care. I want you. If you think I'm going to walk away from what we are together, then you are the idiot you claim me to be. I've spent years chasing you and I won't stop now even if I’m away when you read this.

The old hag has sent me to train in the hermit arts that Ero-Sennin studied. I wish he could have taught me himself, but the pervert had to get himself killed by the Akatsuki. We heard about it the day before you left and I don't know if anyone told you. Bastard, I want to destroy that damned organization. They are ruining too many lives and I'm going to make them pay! So, I'm going to train and become stronger and then I'm going to come home. I'll become Hokage and then I will join the shinobi of Konoha together to declare war on those assholes and we'll win. It's a promise of a lifetime.

Will you wait for me? Will you be by my side?

Please?

Your Naruto. Always yours. Whether you like it or not, teme.'


Sasuke’s hands shook crumpling the paper in his grasp. Naruto still loved him. He hadn’t held Sasuke’s abrupt departure against him. Sasuke would return the favor and not blame Naruto for wanting to train in such a specialized form. He would repay Naruto for all the time and effort the blond had devoted to him. This was his promise of a lifetime.

He remembered the tears on his beautiful scarred cheeks and the hurt in sapphire eyes when he turned Naruto away. He felt sick to his stomach when he realized that Naruto had been grieving the loss of his teacher when he came to Sasuke for comfort.

‘Never again. I will never see him hurt like that again.’

Standing up with the note and frog in hand, Sasuke approached his bookshelf. On one of the shelves lay a single item; his slashed hitai-ate. Slowly, almost reverently, he placed the ceramic frog next to his old Konoha headband, then folded the paper neatly and put it beneath a corner of the grinning amphibian. For now, these three items would be his reminders of what was important in his life.

Returning to his bed, Sasuke turned off the light and slid beneath the covers sighing with contentment. With his head on a pillow he closed his eyes and faced his lover in his mind. “Yes, Naruto. I’ll wait for you.”

“I’ll always wait for you.”


-----The End.----


AN: Yes, this is pretty much the ending I envisioned when I began this story a year ago. It was my first fic and I've gone through some trial and errors with ideas and writing styles with it. I had planned on a sequel when I started on it, but honestly, I could probably sum the whole thing up with an Epilogue. So, I'll leave it up to the readers:

Do I let it end here? The angst has been resolved, they love each other and have promised to be reunited. Or do I give a peak into their future with one final chapter? Maybe with a lemon?

FYI, the final chapter of "What is This?" will be out next weekend for any who are looking forward to it.

Thanks everybody!