The Way Things Are
folder
Naruto › Yaoi - Male/Male › Shikamaru/Neji
Rating:
Adult ++
Chapters:
32
Views:
3,465
Reviews:
777
Recommended:
2
Currently Reading:
0
Category:
Naruto › Yaoi - Male/Male › Shikamaru/Neji
Rating:
Adult ++
Chapters:
32
Views:
3,465
Reviews:
777
Recommended:
2
Currently Reading:
0
Disclaimer:
I do not own Naruto, nor any of the characters from it. I do not make any money from the writing of this story.
Chapter 29
Yay! An update! I really am sorry that these last few chapters haven't been as 'on schedule' as usual. First Spring Break and now teachers are cramming us with homework. Bah. Anyhow, here's a new chapter and it is NOT the end. I think I'll have one or two more chapters before this story is over. So...happy day, right? lol
REVIEW REPLIES
superwhore: Well, I wasn't necessarily going to, but the thought occurred to me a couple of times. I really am quite evil though. I'm glad you think I do my writing well. ^_^
Admiral ShadowWolf: ^_^ I'm really glad that you enjoyed the chapter. :D Makes me happy. ^_^ Yes, I did let him live. Aren't I nice? lol I hope you'll enjoy this new one. :D
Anubis: I'm glad you liked it. I'm a bit of an angst lover, so at first, killing Neji off was...slightly entertaining. As time went on though, I couldn't do it. Gah, I'm too nice. XD lol I really hope you'll like what's left of it. ^_^
WhenYouToldMeYouLoveMe: I'm sorry. I didn't mean to make you cry this time. ^_^; I'm really glad you liked the chapter and that I didn't break your heart. I'd hate to be sued for that. lol
Starry: lol Yes, no cliffhanger on that chapter. And there is more, although it's not going to be much. Just one or two more chapters. ^_^ I hope you'll enjoy it still.
Syake: A lot of people would have been pissed had I let him die. lol I have happy you liked the chapter though. I bet you could stay awake if you were worried.
Akaatje: *is hugged* Aw, thanks. :D
amith: lol That was the point. I was hoping to scare you guys. XD lol I'm so mean.
KatFO: Oh pretty! *smells the roses* ^_^ I'm really glad you enjoyed it. :) Two great things in one chapter. How much better can it get?
hatsumomo: Two great things in one chapter. Neat, eh? Just makes things all happy again.
Twisted_Reaper: I wonder...will you need the fix when this story is over? I sure hope not. I guess it did go against the laws of nature because I couldn't do it.
Tia: It wouldn't be ungrateful at all and there'll be at least one more following after this one. :D
luxeflex: lol It would seem I had quite a few people there with Ino. I'm so mean. :P lol I am glad you liked the ending though. :D
Tori: I am glad that you enjoyed it. ^_^ lol Yay for a living Neji. lol And being a hopeless fangirl is not a bad thing. XD hee hee Thanks for sharing the picture! :D
Erica: I was rather mean with that part, but I couldn't resist. XD I'm glad that you liked Shikamaru's confession.
digiditz: I'm sure that's exactly what would have happened. lol And I'm so glad that I've been forgiven. ;) lol
charmpit: It's true. He would be able to heal really fast if he did have the kyuubi's chakra. I don't think I could handle a ShikaNeji fic where one of them dies. I mean, seriously, they're supposed to grow old together. XD lol There'll only be about one or two more chapters. ^_^
qwerty: Actually, I didn't think of one. XD lol That and I just couldn't kill him. I hope you'll like the new update. :D
XoXgaaraXoX: ^_^ I'm glad that you enjoyed it. :D I hope you'll like this chapter too. ^_^
yuurimaoh: Oh, well I'm glad that I let him live then! lol I am really glad that you've liked the story. It'll be kind of sad to end it. Thank you again!
Mina: lol You have permission to slap me if you really want to. XD It was a mean thing to do, but I couldn't resist.
Dying Dreams: O_O You were going to kill me? How sad! lol j/k I'm sure I would have deserved it. XD haha
Nickles: Oh, I didn't want to kill him, but I'm a bit of an angst lover. The fact that I couldn't kill him though shows that I love happy things more. :P Oh, that group of ninja will NEVER mess with the Hidden village of the Leaf ever again. Ever. XD
jess249: I'm sure you've stated that you loved me before, but I don't think I remember when. XD But thank you. ^_^ I'm really glad that you liked the chapter. :D
Christina: No, no, I was thinking of a way to do so. Didn't mean that I was going to let it happen. XD lol I am glad that you enjoyed the chapter. *hands you tissues* These are for the happy tears. ^_^
Im The Dobe: I'm glad you found that part amusing. XD Most people have been telling me how it made them want to cry. XD I'm so mean. I guess the story does kind of sound like a fairy tale...maybe that's why people like it so much? lol I don't know. I'm really glad you liked it though. :D
Annieme: Oh, he won't be dying in this fic. And I couldn't kill him. I just love the boy to much. ^_^ Don't tell me you stayed up with Shikamaru? O_O
AngelicChaos: Yes, I did notice a lack of a review from you. XD I really am glad you enjoyed that chapter. :) Thank you so much. ^_^
ShikaChouFan4Life: No, it's not wrong, but if anyone should get, as you put it, 'slapped, punched, kicked, or maimed', it should have been me. lol I'm glad you enjoyed the fluff too. ^_^ Enjoy the new chapter!
Revine: I plan on going through the story once I'm finished and catching and editing what ever typos I find, so I'll keep the last chapter in mind. As for the RP thing, you're still more than welcome to join, even if you are an off and on person. :)
lonelydove: Glad you liked it. :D
Xoteem: Wow, that's the first time I've heard that. You dreamed it? What part did you dream? lol Just curious. :D Hope you'll like the update!
Chibi-Berry: There's going to be one or two more chapters after this one. I hope you'll like them.
Damp: lol Sad, isn't it? lol I'm so mean to you people. Glad you're happy.
D.A. Maxwell: Hopefully I've given you a fill of angst for a little while. XD Yes, I know what Ino said would be terribly rude in real life, but that's why this is called fiction. XD Gotta love the flexibility that you have with things. XD Yes, Neji has a new scar and you get to read a little bit about it in this chapter. :D
Ino-chan: lol I'm glad you enjoyed the scene with Ino. I had to much fun writing it. XD lol Anyhow, I hope you'll continue to like what I have. :D
yaoilovergirl: Wow, thank you for the compliment! I'm honored that you think I'm that good of a writer. :D Makes me giddy! I don't have much more for this story, but I hope you'll like what I've got left. ^_^
nm1716: Yay for an OK Neji! lol I hope you'll like the new chapter! :D
Elizabeth Mary Miller: Good! We always need more Shikamaru fans! And even more Shikamaru/Neji fans. XD lol It's a bit late in my story though to be recruiting though. XD lol Thank you for the compliment. :D Happy reading!
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Chapter 29
Neji sat silently on the edge of his hospital bed, letting Sakura make some last minute checks on him. He smiled to himself when the thought of going home entered his head. Home. He was going to get to finally leave the white walls of the hospital and go home. It had never sounded so nice before. After all, lying in a hospital bed for 2 weeks was bound to get on one’s nerves. He hated it and he hated the fact that it had felt like ages since he had been able to move.
“I can imagine how happy you are,” Sakura stated as she took his pulse. “Getting out of here.”
Neji merely nodded. Had he been that obvious as to leaving this place?
“Of course, you might want to wait till Shikamaru gets here with some clothes,” Sakura smirked. “After all, I don’t think you want to walk through Konoha in a hospital robe.”
“Yes, I’d rather avoid that,” Neji agreed, shuddering slightly at the thought of what people would think should he do that. After all, the only person he would ever want to see his backside was the Nara that was supposedly coming his way.
A knock on his room’s door broke his reverie and he smiled as Shikamaru made his way into the room, some of his clothes wrapped neatly and resting in his arms. Sakura finished with her check up before she left the room, saying that she need to talk to the two of them as soon as Neji was ready to go. She walked out of the room, leaving the couple alone.
Shikamaru laid Neji’s clothes on the bed before he turned towards the other and placed his hands on Neji’s cheeks. He slowly lowered his head until his lips briefly touched the Hyuuga’s, pressing against them a little more fervently when Neji pushed up against him. Neji brought his hands up to rest on Shikamaru’s shoulders as they continued to share a languid, unhurried, yet intimate kiss. He loved how Shikamaru had been doing this as soon as he had been able to.
“I’m glad I get to take you home,” Shikamaru whispered as they pulled apart, letting their foreheads press against one another’s. “I’ve missed you.”
Neji snorted playfully. “You had a mission for a week. You missed nothing.”
Shikamaru smirked. “Are you challenging my words, Hyuuga Neji?”
“Maybe,” Neji said softly, grinning. “Are you going to tell me to be careful with what I say?”
“I might,” Shikamaru stated. “After all, this might end up getting you more than what you’re planning for.”
“It always does,” Neji mumbled, forcing the Nara to chuckle.
“Let’s get you dressed,” Shikamaru stated. “I want to take you home as soon as possible.”
Neji merely nodded his head before he slowly pushed himself to his feet. He stood still as the Nara began to untie the ties behind his back, his body shivering at the other’s touch. Shikamaru pushed the hospital fabric off of Neji’s shoulders, watching as Neji’s skin came into view. He distantly heard the soft rustling of fabric as his eyes landed on the scar in the middle of his lover’s chest. Almost tenderly, he began to reach up to touch it when Neji’s hand stopped him.
“You’ll get to look at it at home,” Neji replied when Shikamaru gave him a questioning look. “I’d really like to get dressed and get there as soon as possible.”
Smirking, Shikamaru leaned forward and kissed Neji’s cheek, his hand reaching to the pile of clothes and pulling out a pair of Neji’s boxers. He slowly helped Neji get into them, his fingers touching every expanse of skin he could get his hands on. Neji hummed appreciatively as the fingers continued to dance up his sides and over his shoulders. He grinned when the hands cupped his face and brought his mouth up for another intimate kiss.
It wasn’t long before he was fully dressed and the two called Sakura back inside. She returned, smiling at them. “Ready to go home, Neji?”
Neji nodded. “As soon as possible.”
Sakura chuckled. “Alright. I just have to discuss some ground rules with the two of you before I can let you go.”
“Ground rules?” Shikamaru asked, raising a brow.
Sakura nodded. “That’s right. There a few things that you can’t do with Neji and that he can’t do over the next month and a half. First and foremost, no sex. I really hate to tell you that, but it could be potentially dangerous for Neji if you do. Any position during sex can hurt him.”
“How dangerous?” Neji asked.
“It could kill you,” Sakura said slowly. “And I’m not exaggerating. Next, no jutsu jumping. The jutsu puts stress on the chest region of your body and as you’re not fully capable of dealing with that yet, so you shouldn’t do it.”
“No jutsu and no sex,” Neji sighed. He was slightly surprised at the casualness of the conversation. Speaking of sex used to have a taboo of sorts on it. “Anything else?”
“You need to come back here once a week,” Sakura said. “We need to do check ups to make sure that your body is healing on it’s own like it should and not suffering from the after effects of the major chakra healing that it’s received.”
“Anything else?” Shikamaru asked.
“No missions,” Sakura shrugged, “but I’ve already spoken with Naruto and let him know that both of you won’t be able to go on any.”
“Both of us?” Neji asked, raising a brow.
“Mmhmm,” Sakura stated absentmindedly a she grabbed the hospital robe off of the floor. “Someone’s got to take care of you. After all, you’ll probably have bouts of physical weakness every now and then. Who better to take care of you than your spouse? Well, that’s everything. Remember your restrictions Neji.” With a wave, the kunoichi left the room, not giving the two men a chance to argue.
“I don’t suppose you’re planning on complaining,” Neji stated, looking over at the Nara.
Shikamaru smirked. “Why would I do that? I’m getting a vacation basically.”
Neji snorted. “I almost forgot. As little work as possible for you is a good thing.”
“What are you complaining about?” Shikamaru grinned, putting an arm around Neji’s waist. “It’s allowing me to spend the time with you.”
Neji smiled and closed his eyes, leaning against the other. “I suppose that’s true.”
Shikamaru nuzzled the Hyuuga’s head affectionately, pressing a soft kiss to his temple. “Let’s go home.”
Nodding, Neji allowed the Nara to take the lead, the couple walking out of the hospital, receiving many happy glances. They were halfway back to their home when Neji asked the Nara to stop. He was slightly out of breath, which he absolutely hated. Shikamaru wasted no time in getting Neji to sit down on a nearby bench. He immediately began to make sure that Neji was alright when the Hyuuga growled at the inquisitive hands.
“Shikamaru, stop,” Neji sighed. “I’m fine, really. I’m just not used to having to be so careful.”
Shikamaru frowned. “You’re sure you’re alright? No serious pains?”
Neji couldn’t stop the small smile that spread across his face. “I said I’m fine. The only pain I have is the one sitting next to me.” He snickered when Shikamaru raised an eyebrow at him. “But I suppose,” he whispered, leaning on the other, “it’s a good pain.”
Smirking, Shikamaru wrapped his arms around his lover, pressing a gentle kiss to the other’s head. “I’m not the only pain around here.”
Neji snorted. “Calling me a pain? Rude.”
Shikamaru chuckled. “Ready to continue our trek home yet?”
Nodding, Neji let the other guide him upwards, the movement dizzying him for a moment. He ignored it and the two were once again heading towards their home. Neji was able to hold out longer this time and it wasn’t long before the two of them were entering their house. Neji flopped down on their couch, closing his eyes and breathing in. There was something about their home that he loved when it came to the smell. It calmed and soothed his nerves.
Shikamaru sat down next to him and pushed back some of his hair. “Need anything? Water?”
Neji sighed and opened his eyes, looking over at his spouse. “Shikamaru, I’m not helpless. I can get a glass of water.”
“I know,” Shikamaru said softly. “I just…don’t want the worst to happen.”
Touched, Neji smiled and let his fingers brush against the Nara’s cheek. “I can understand that, but I’m not a porcelain doll. I’d need to do something extreme in order to hurt myself.”
Shikamaru sighed. “You have a point. That doesn’t stop me from worrying though.”
Neji chuckled before he pushed himself up off the couch. “You’re unusually sweet. What caused this change?”
“The fact that you decided to get stabbed in the middle of your chest,” Shikamaru stated, standing up as well. He wrapped his arms around the Hyuuga’s shoulders. “I almost lost you…again.”
“Shikamaru,” Neji said softly. “I’ve already told you that it wasn’t your fault. There was no way you could have done anything.”
Shikamaru sighed. “Still…”
Neji gave the man a small kiss to the check before he let his head rest on Shikamaru’s shoulder. “You said you had something to show me,” Neji said softly, hoping to change the subject.
“I didn’t forget,” Shikamaru said quietly, “but I’ll let you change the subject this once. Follow me.” He grabbed the Hyuuga’s hand and started to pull him down the hallway on the floor level.
Slightly confused, Neji continued to follow the other as they reached the empty room. Only, it wasn’t empty anymore. His eyes widened as Shikamaru pushed him inside so he could get a better look at it. Shelves lined the walls and were filled with books. Neji didn’t know where the Nara could have gotten them all. Towards the back of the room, by the large window sat a desk. In front of it and around the entire room sat an assortment of chairs and beanbags.
“When-?” Neji started, before it clicked. “While I was on my mission?”
Shikamaru gave him one small nod of the head. “I did it as your birthday present. The extra time gave me a chance to get more books. I had called a few people together to celebrate it with me the night…you came home.”
Neji gave the other a small smile before he grabbed his hand and pulled him over to one of the larger beanbags. He pushed the Nara onto it before he climbed in as well, lying half on top of him. He waited till the other was comfortable before he shifted himself, resting his head on Shikamaru’s shoulder. “Thank you.”
The younger male grinned before he placed a soft kiss to Neji’s forehead. “Not going to say that I do too many things for you?”
Snorting, Neji lifted his head to look at the other’s eyes. “It won’t change anything if I do.”
“True enough,” Shikamaru smirked, brushing back some of the Hyuuga’s long hair. He stared for several seconds at the other before he leaned down and placed his lips on Neji’s softly.
The Hyuuga sighed as he pressed back, letting his eyes close as the kiss continued. He smiled when the other wrapped his arms around him and pulled him up, making him level with the younger shinobi. He curled his fingers into Shikamaru’s shirt and pulled the other closer. Shikamaru’s hands came and gently pressed against his back. Neji opened his mouth when Shikamaru’s questing tongue pressed against his lips, asking for permission to enter.
Neji slid his hands up to Shikamaru’s hair and pulled the band out before he let one hand tangle into the locks while the other came and rested on the Nara’s cheek. Shikamaru was caressing the inside of his mouth, running over teeth and gums before enticing his own tongue to play with the other’s slick muscle. He moaned softly and did as the other asked, his tongue tracing the sides of his lover’s before it slid into the other’s mouth.
Yet it didn’t get to stay there long as Shikamaru pulled away and started to place kisses along his jaw line and neck. He gasped for air as the other’s tender kisses trailed around the entirety of his slim neck, sucking softly on his adam’s apple before they moved lower. He mewled when a hot tongue dipped into the center between his collar bones, his body arching into the touch. The kisses suddenly became gentler as the Nara reached the center of his chest and Neji cursed the scar resting there as it acted as a reminder of what they couldn’t do.
Shikamaru’s finger traced over the fresh scar, his eyes staring at every detail. He would memorize it, learn every bump and line to act as a reminder of why shinobi should rarely ever work or travel alone. He’d use it as a constant reminder to both Naruto and Gaara if he had to. He couldn’t stop the shuddered breath the escaped his lips as he remembered holding the very man in front of him not so long ago in such different circumstances. His eyes began to tear up at the thought of what he had almost lost and he pressed a gentle kiss to the scar before he buried his head into the other’s chest.
Neji sighed and wrapped his arms as best as he could around the other, letting Shikamaru press against him. Any thought of getting aroused was completely gone when the Nara’s body started to shake softly. Frowning, he wiggled downwards and began to wipe away the other’s tears. “Shikamaru, there’s no need for this.”
Shikamaru shook his head, trying to gain control. “I almost lost you,” he breathed. “I…almost lost any chances of letting you know how I feel.”
Neji smiled at the memory. He may have been heavily drugged, but he could still remember the other’s exact words. “And yet here I am, alive and well, even if I am healing. I’m not going anywhere, Shikamaru. At least not for a while.”
The Nara swallowed and nodded his head, smirking. “Damn it, Neji,” he laughed softly. “What have you done to me? I've turned into a woman.”
Neji snickered and cuddled up next to the other. “I’ve done nothing, although I don’t mind this side of you at all.” He relaxed as the other male chuckled, even if it was slightly broken, and smiled when the arms around him tightened possessively. He hummed softly in appreciation and snuggled even closer. He was back, in his own home, back in Shikamaru’s arms. What more could he possibly want?
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*hands out toothbrushes and toothpaste* That's to counter the sweetness of this chapter. It made my heart flutter happily. XD :D Again, only about one or two chapters left!
REVIEW REPLIES
superwhore: Well, I wasn't necessarily going to, but the thought occurred to me a couple of times. I really am quite evil though. I'm glad you think I do my writing well. ^_^
Admiral ShadowWolf: ^_^ I'm really glad that you enjoyed the chapter. :D Makes me happy. ^_^ Yes, I did let him live. Aren't I nice? lol I hope you'll enjoy this new one. :D
Anubis: I'm glad you liked it. I'm a bit of an angst lover, so at first, killing Neji off was...slightly entertaining. As time went on though, I couldn't do it. Gah, I'm too nice. XD lol I really hope you'll like what's left of it. ^_^
WhenYouToldMeYouLoveMe: I'm sorry. I didn't mean to make you cry this time. ^_^; I'm really glad you liked the chapter and that I didn't break your heart. I'd hate to be sued for that. lol
Starry: lol Yes, no cliffhanger on that chapter. And there is more, although it's not going to be much. Just one or two more chapters. ^_^ I hope you'll enjoy it still.
Syake: A lot of people would have been pissed had I let him die. lol I have happy you liked the chapter though. I bet you could stay awake if you were worried.
Akaatje: *is hugged* Aw, thanks. :D
amith: lol That was the point. I was hoping to scare you guys. XD lol I'm so mean.
KatFO: Oh pretty! *smells the roses* ^_^ I'm really glad you enjoyed it. :) Two great things in one chapter. How much better can it get?
hatsumomo: Two great things in one chapter. Neat, eh? Just makes things all happy again.
Twisted_Reaper: I wonder...will you need the fix when this story is over? I sure hope not. I guess it did go against the laws of nature because I couldn't do it.
Tia: It wouldn't be ungrateful at all and there'll be at least one more following after this one. :D
luxeflex: lol It would seem I had quite a few people there with Ino. I'm so mean. :P lol I am glad you liked the ending though. :D
Tori: I am glad that you enjoyed it. ^_^ lol Yay for a living Neji. lol And being a hopeless fangirl is not a bad thing. XD hee hee Thanks for sharing the picture! :D
Erica: I was rather mean with that part, but I couldn't resist. XD I'm glad that you liked Shikamaru's confession.
digiditz: I'm sure that's exactly what would have happened. lol And I'm so glad that I've been forgiven. ;) lol
charmpit: It's true. He would be able to heal really fast if he did have the kyuubi's chakra. I don't think I could handle a ShikaNeji fic where one of them dies. I mean, seriously, they're supposed to grow old together. XD lol There'll only be about one or two more chapters. ^_^
qwerty: Actually, I didn't think of one. XD lol That and I just couldn't kill him. I hope you'll like the new update. :D
XoXgaaraXoX: ^_^ I'm glad that you enjoyed it. :D I hope you'll like this chapter too. ^_^
yuurimaoh: Oh, well I'm glad that I let him live then! lol I am really glad that you've liked the story. It'll be kind of sad to end it. Thank you again!
Mina: lol You have permission to slap me if you really want to. XD It was a mean thing to do, but I couldn't resist.
Dying Dreams: O_O You were going to kill me? How sad! lol j/k I'm sure I would have deserved it. XD haha
Nickles: Oh, I didn't want to kill him, but I'm a bit of an angst lover. The fact that I couldn't kill him though shows that I love happy things more. :P Oh, that group of ninja will NEVER mess with the Hidden village of the Leaf ever again. Ever. XD
jess249: I'm sure you've stated that you loved me before, but I don't think I remember when. XD But thank you. ^_^ I'm really glad that you liked the chapter. :D
Christina: No, no, I was thinking of a way to do so. Didn't mean that I was going to let it happen. XD lol I am glad that you enjoyed the chapter. *hands you tissues* These are for the happy tears. ^_^
Im The Dobe: I'm glad you found that part amusing. XD Most people have been telling me how it made them want to cry. XD I'm so mean. I guess the story does kind of sound like a fairy tale...maybe that's why people like it so much? lol I don't know. I'm really glad you liked it though. :D
Annieme: Oh, he won't be dying in this fic. And I couldn't kill him. I just love the boy to much. ^_^ Don't tell me you stayed up with Shikamaru? O_O
AngelicChaos: Yes, I did notice a lack of a review from you. XD I really am glad you enjoyed that chapter. :) Thank you so much. ^_^
ShikaChouFan4Life: No, it's not wrong, but if anyone should get, as you put it, 'slapped, punched, kicked, or maimed', it should have been me. lol I'm glad you enjoyed the fluff too. ^_^ Enjoy the new chapter!
Revine: I plan on going through the story once I'm finished and catching and editing what ever typos I find, so I'll keep the last chapter in mind. As for the RP thing, you're still more than welcome to join, even if you are an off and on person. :)
lonelydove: Glad you liked it. :D
Xoteem: Wow, that's the first time I've heard that. You dreamed it? What part did you dream? lol Just curious. :D Hope you'll like the update!
Chibi-Berry: There's going to be one or two more chapters after this one. I hope you'll like them.
Damp: lol Sad, isn't it? lol I'm so mean to you people. Glad you're happy.
D.A. Maxwell: Hopefully I've given you a fill of angst for a little while. XD Yes, I know what Ino said would be terribly rude in real life, but that's why this is called fiction. XD Gotta love the flexibility that you have with things. XD Yes, Neji has a new scar and you get to read a little bit about it in this chapter. :D
Ino-chan: lol I'm glad you enjoyed the scene with Ino. I had to much fun writing it. XD lol Anyhow, I hope you'll continue to like what I have. :D
yaoilovergirl: Wow, thank you for the compliment! I'm honored that you think I'm that good of a writer. :D Makes me giddy! I don't have much more for this story, but I hope you'll like what I've got left. ^_^
nm1716: Yay for an OK Neji! lol I hope you'll like the new chapter! :D
Elizabeth Mary Miller: Good! We always need more Shikamaru fans! And even more Shikamaru/Neji fans. XD lol It's a bit late in my story though to be recruiting though. XD lol Thank you for the compliment. :D Happy reading!
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Chapter 29
Neji sat silently on the edge of his hospital bed, letting Sakura make some last minute checks on him. He smiled to himself when the thought of going home entered his head. Home. He was going to get to finally leave the white walls of the hospital and go home. It had never sounded so nice before. After all, lying in a hospital bed for 2 weeks was bound to get on one’s nerves. He hated it and he hated the fact that it had felt like ages since he had been able to move.
“I can imagine how happy you are,” Sakura stated as she took his pulse. “Getting out of here.”
Neji merely nodded. Had he been that obvious as to leaving this place?
“Of course, you might want to wait till Shikamaru gets here with some clothes,” Sakura smirked. “After all, I don’t think you want to walk through Konoha in a hospital robe.”
“Yes, I’d rather avoid that,” Neji agreed, shuddering slightly at the thought of what people would think should he do that. After all, the only person he would ever want to see his backside was the Nara that was supposedly coming his way.
A knock on his room’s door broke his reverie and he smiled as Shikamaru made his way into the room, some of his clothes wrapped neatly and resting in his arms. Sakura finished with her check up before she left the room, saying that she need to talk to the two of them as soon as Neji was ready to go. She walked out of the room, leaving the couple alone.
Shikamaru laid Neji’s clothes on the bed before he turned towards the other and placed his hands on Neji’s cheeks. He slowly lowered his head until his lips briefly touched the Hyuuga’s, pressing against them a little more fervently when Neji pushed up against him. Neji brought his hands up to rest on Shikamaru’s shoulders as they continued to share a languid, unhurried, yet intimate kiss. He loved how Shikamaru had been doing this as soon as he had been able to.
“I’m glad I get to take you home,” Shikamaru whispered as they pulled apart, letting their foreheads press against one another’s. “I’ve missed you.”
Neji snorted playfully. “You had a mission for a week. You missed nothing.”
Shikamaru smirked. “Are you challenging my words, Hyuuga Neji?”
“Maybe,” Neji said softly, grinning. “Are you going to tell me to be careful with what I say?”
“I might,” Shikamaru stated. “After all, this might end up getting you more than what you’re planning for.”
“It always does,” Neji mumbled, forcing the Nara to chuckle.
“Let’s get you dressed,” Shikamaru stated. “I want to take you home as soon as possible.”
Neji merely nodded his head before he slowly pushed himself to his feet. He stood still as the Nara began to untie the ties behind his back, his body shivering at the other’s touch. Shikamaru pushed the hospital fabric off of Neji’s shoulders, watching as Neji’s skin came into view. He distantly heard the soft rustling of fabric as his eyes landed on the scar in the middle of his lover’s chest. Almost tenderly, he began to reach up to touch it when Neji’s hand stopped him.
“You’ll get to look at it at home,” Neji replied when Shikamaru gave him a questioning look. “I’d really like to get dressed and get there as soon as possible.”
Smirking, Shikamaru leaned forward and kissed Neji’s cheek, his hand reaching to the pile of clothes and pulling out a pair of Neji’s boxers. He slowly helped Neji get into them, his fingers touching every expanse of skin he could get his hands on. Neji hummed appreciatively as the fingers continued to dance up his sides and over his shoulders. He grinned when the hands cupped his face and brought his mouth up for another intimate kiss.
It wasn’t long before he was fully dressed and the two called Sakura back inside. She returned, smiling at them. “Ready to go home, Neji?”
Neji nodded. “As soon as possible.”
Sakura chuckled. “Alright. I just have to discuss some ground rules with the two of you before I can let you go.”
“Ground rules?” Shikamaru asked, raising a brow.
Sakura nodded. “That’s right. There a few things that you can’t do with Neji and that he can’t do over the next month and a half. First and foremost, no sex. I really hate to tell you that, but it could be potentially dangerous for Neji if you do. Any position during sex can hurt him.”
“How dangerous?” Neji asked.
“It could kill you,” Sakura said slowly. “And I’m not exaggerating. Next, no jutsu jumping. The jutsu puts stress on the chest region of your body and as you’re not fully capable of dealing with that yet, so you shouldn’t do it.”
“No jutsu and no sex,” Neji sighed. He was slightly surprised at the casualness of the conversation. Speaking of sex used to have a taboo of sorts on it. “Anything else?”
“You need to come back here once a week,” Sakura said. “We need to do check ups to make sure that your body is healing on it’s own like it should and not suffering from the after effects of the major chakra healing that it’s received.”
“Anything else?” Shikamaru asked.
“No missions,” Sakura shrugged, “but I’ve already spoken with Naruto and let him know that both of you won’t be able to go on any.”
“Both of us?” Neji asked, raising a brow.
“Mmhmm,” Sakura stated absentmindedly a she grabbed the hospital robe off of the floor. “Someone’s got to take care of you. After all, you’ll probably have bouts of physical weakness every now and then. Who better to take care of you than your spouse? Well, that’s everything. Remember your restrictions Neji.” With a wave, the kunoichi left the room, not giving the two men a chance to argue.
“I don’t suppose you’re planning on complaining,” Neji stated, looking over at the Nara.
Shikamaru smirked. “Why would I do that? I’m getting a vacation basically.”
Neji snorted. “I almost forgot. As little work as possible for you is a good thing.”
“What are you complaining about?” Shikamaru grinned, putting an arm around Neji’s waist. “It’s allowing me to spend the time with you.”
Neji smiled and closed his eyes, leaning against the other. “I suppose that’s true.”
Shikamaru nuzzled the Hyuuga’s head affectionately, pressing a soft kiss to his temple. “Let’s go home.”
Nodding, Neji allowed the Nara to take the lead, the couple walking out of the hospital, receiving many happy glances. They were halfway back to their home when Neji asked the Nara to stop. He was slightly out of breath, which he absolutely hated. Shikamaru wasted no time in getting Neji to sit down on a nearby bench. He immediately began to make sure that Neji was alright when the Hyuuga growled at the inquisitive hands.
“Shikamaru, stop,” Neji sighed. “I’m fine, really. I’m just not used to having to be so careful.”
Shikamaru frowned. “You’re sure you’re alright? No serious pains?”
Neji couldn’t stop the small smile that spread across his face. “I said I’m fine. The only pain I have is the one sitting next to me.” He snickered when Shikamaru raised an eyebrow at him. “But I suppose,” he whispered, leaning on the other, “it’s a good pain.”
Smirking, Shikamaru wrapped his arms around his lover, pressing a gentle kiss to the other’s head. “I’m not the only pain around here.”
Neji snorted. “Calling me a pain? Rude.”
Shikamaru chuckled. “Ready to continue our trek home yet?”
Nodding, Neji let the other guide him upwards, the movement dizzying him for a moment. He ignored it and the two were once again heading towards their home. Neji was able to hold out longer this time and it wasn’t long before the two of them were entering their house. Neji flopped down on their couch, closing his eyes and breathing in. There was something about their home that he loved when it came to the smell. It calmed and soothed his nerves.
Shikamaru sat down next to him and pushed back some of his hair. “Need anything? Water?”
Neji sighed and opened his eyes, looking over at his spouse. “Shikamaru, I’m not helpless. I can get a glass of water.”
“I know,” Shikamaru said softly. “I just…don’t want the worst to happen.”
Touched, Neji smiled and let his fingers brush against the Nara’s cheek. “I can understand that, but I’m not a porcelain doll. I’d need to do something extreme in order to hurt myself.”
Shikamaru sighed. “You have a point. That doesn’t stop me from worrying though.”
Neji chuckled before he pushed himself up off the couch. “You’re unusually sweet. What caused this change?”
“The fact that you decided to get stabbed in the middle of your chest,” Shikamaru stated, standing up as well. He wrapped his arms around the Hyuuga’s shoulders. “I almost lost you…again.”
“Shikamaru,” Neji said softly. “I’ve already told you that it wasn’t your fault. There was no way you could have done anything.”
Shikamaru sighed. “Still…”
Neji gave the man a small kiss to the check before he let his head rest on Shikamaru’s shoulder. “You said you had something to show me,” Neji said softly, hoping to change the subject.
“I didn’t forget,” Shikamaru said quietly, “but I’ll let you change the subject this once. Follow me.” He grabbed the Hyuuga’s hand and started to pull him down the hallway on the floor level.
Slightly confused, Neji continued to follow the other as they reached the empty room. Only, it wasn’t empty anymore. His eyes widened as Shikamaru pushed him inside so he could get a better look at it. Shelves lined the walls and were filled with books. Neji didn’t know where the Nara could have gotten them all. Towards the back of the room, by the large window sat a desk. In front of it and around the entire room sat an assortment of chairs and beanbags.
“When-?” Neji started, before it clicked. “While I was on my mission?”
Shikamaru gave him one small nod of the head. “I did it as your birthday present. The extra time gave me a chance to get more books. I had called a few people together to celebrate it with me the night…you came home.”
Neji gave the other a small smile before he grabbed his hand and pulled him over to one of the larger beanbags. He pushed the Nara onto it before he climbed in as well, lying half on top of him. He waited till the other was comfortable before he shifted himself, resting his head on Shikamaru’s shoulder. “Thank you.”
The younger male grinned before he placed a soft kiss to Neji’s forehead. “Not going to say that I do too many things for you?”
Snorting, Neji lifted his head to look at the other’s eyes. “It won’t change anything if I do.”
“True enough,” Shikamaru smirked, brushing back some of the Hyuuga’s long hair. He stared for several seconds at the other before he leaned down and placed his lips on Neji’s softly.
The Hyuuga sighed as he pressed back, letting his eyes close as the kiss continued. He smiled when the other wrapped his arms around him and pulled him up, making him level with the younger shinobi. He curled his fingers into Shikamaru’s shirt and pulled the other closer. Shikamaru’s hands came and gently pressed against his back. Neji opened his mouth when Shikamaru’s questing tongue pressed against his lips, asking for permission to enter.
Neji slid his hands up to Shikamaru’s hair and pulled the band out before he let one hand tangle into the locks while the other came and rested on the Nara’s cheek. Shikamaru was caressing the inside of his mouth, running over teeth and gums before enticing his own tongue to play with the other’s slick muscle. He moaned softly and did as the other asked, his tongue tracing the sides of his lover’s before it slid into the other’s mouth.
Yet it didn’t get to stay there long as Shikamaru pulled away and started to place kisses along his jaw line and neck. He gasped for air as the other’s tender kisses trailed around the entirety of his slim neck, sucking softly on his adam’s apple before they moved lower. He mewled when a hot tongue dipped into the center between his collar bones, his body arching into the touch. The kisses suddenly became gentler as the Nara reached the center of his chest and Neji cursed the scar resting there as it acted as a reminder of what they couldn’t do.
Shikamaru’s finger traced over the fresh scar, his eyes staring at every detail. He would memorize it, learn every bump and line to act as a reminder of why shinobi should rarely ever work or travel alone. He’d use it as a constant reminder to both Naruto and Gaara if he had to. He couldn’t stop the shuddered breath the escaped his lips as he remembered holding the very man in front of him not so long ago in such different circumstances. His eyes began to tear up at the thought of what he had almost lost and he pressed a gentle kiss to the scar before he buried his head into the other’s chest.
Neji sighed and wrapped his arms as best as he could around the other, letting Shikamaru press against him. Any thought of getting aroused was completely gone when the Nara’s body started to shake softly. Frowning, he wiggled downwards and began to wipe away the other’s tears. “Shikamaru, there’s no need for this.”
Shikamaru shook his head, trying to gain control. “I almost lost you,” he breathed. “I…almost lost any chances of letting you know how I feel.”
Neji smiled at the memory. He may have been heavily drugged, but he could still remember the other’s exact words. “And yet here I am, alive and well, even if I am healing. I’m not going anywhere, Shikamaru. At least not for a while.”
The Nara swallowed and nodded his head, smirking. “Damn it, Neji,” he laughed softly. “What have you done to me? I've turned into a woman.”
Neji snickered and cuddled up next to the other. “I’ve done nothing, although I don’t mind this side of you at all.” He relaxed as the other male chuckled, even if it was slightly broken, and smiled when the arms around him tightened possessively. He hummed softly in appreciation and snuggled even closer. He was back, in his own home, back in Shikamaru’s arms. What more could he possibly want?
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*hands out toothbrushes and toothpaste* That's to counter the sweetness of this chapter. It made my heart flutter happily. XD :D Again, only about one or two chapters left!