Nine Months

Disclaimer: I do not own Naruto. Please don’t sue me.

WARNING: THIS FIC CONTAINS YAOI. Meaning it has boy-boy loving. If you are not cool with that, then please close this browser or press the back button now. Please do not say that you have not been warned!

Major pairing: SasuNaru

Premise: Sasuke and Naruto are already together for sometime. Everybody’s about 18-19 years old oki? I’ll take this opportunity to mention that in no way am I advocating teen pregnancy! Sorta AU obviously because I don’t think Naruto will ever get pregnant and if you’re keeping up with the manga you’ll know that the ninja ranks of the people in this fic aren’t exactly overlapping with the current manga timeline.

Other Notes: The whole chapter is narrated via 1st POV alternating between the Naruto, Sasuke and Shikamaru. Just for this chapter, I’m blatantly typing out who owns the POV coz there’s just so much switching around this chapter and it might confuse some people if I don’t label it.

And just in case you didn’t know: ADD stands for Attention Deficit Disorder

Review responses will be written below the actual chapter.

Oki everyone! Enjoy the fic! ^___________^

Nine Months
by macy (pronounced as Ma-ki…XP)


Chapter 4 Complications


**************** Naruto ******************

I can easily remove his hold from me, and break his fingers and arm in the process as well, but I don’t want to cause any commotions. Remember? I want nooo complications. I just want to enjoy the matches! I smartly tried to get away from his arm by scooting excitedly towards the edge of the balcony again. I added in effect, “Sakuraga-sama! Who’s going to be fighting in the first match? I’m really excited to see it!” I almost bounced with excitement. Hopefully, my hype for the match will take his mind away from undesirable actions.

“I believe it is Hyuuga Neji of Konoha and Tanaka Rei of Mist,” he replied as he settled back on his own chair, his hands to himself. Whoa! My plan actually worked. At least he seemed interested in the battle, which means he actually thinks of things other than perverse stuff and vanity.

**************** Sasuke ******************


I was already on my way to the fucking box that contained Naruto and that Lord-asshole when I saw Shikamaru jump in front of me. I was already extremely pissed off and was ready to vent out on absolutely anyone who stood in my way. “Get the hell out of my way Nara.” I growled instantly.

The boy didn’t budge. Who knows why? I was pretty sure my glare definitely killed a few of his skin cells already.

“And why should I do that? So you can punch the living hell out of that man? How exactly is that going to help the situation?” he asked me with a frown on his face.

Frankly, I don’t care if it doesn’t help the freaking situation. All I want to do right now is to plaster that man’s head on the ground! He dared to touch my Naruto for fucks sake. I tried to push Shikamaru away in raw anger only to be held back by two strong arms on mine. “Let me go Akimichi.” I commanded with a low voice.

“Just calm down Uchiha! Sheesh…Naruto’s a big boy!” I heard Kiba exclaim behind us. Not surprisingly, it only made me even angrier.

“Let me go.” I ordered for the last time. If they brush off that one as well, I swear I’ll ---

“Let go of him Chouji.” I heard Shikamaru say as he stuffed his hands in his pocket. “If Naruto asks us why we let Sasuke do such a stupid thing such as give Rain a motive to declare war on Konoha, we can innocently say that we did try to stop him.”

I ignored Shikamaru’s lame attempt for reverse psychology and continued to stomp towards the double doors. The usually unconcerned genius continued on with his babble. I tried to put on closed ears but one of his statements struck a chord.

Dammit. Just when did I get this easy to read?

**************** Shikamaru ******************


“Oi, Lee did you know that stress can cause miscarriage?” I continued to speak as I kicked a random rock on the ground. I continued to stare at the fascinating rock while I waited for Lee to respond.

“Really Shikamaru-san??? I think I heard something about that when I overheard a group of ladies in the market the other day.” The older boy answered me.

I subtly looked at Sasuke and noticed that he had stopped in his tracks. Hah, of course that one worked. I tried to control a sigh of combined relief and frustration over this troublesome matter so as to not draw any attention to myself or to my intention. I just hope Sasuke bought that idea as much as Lee apparently had. I also hope that Sakura or anyone else for that matter would not try to challenge my suggestion.

Well…my suggestion isn’t really a complete lie anyway. Miscarriage due to stressing over everyday activities has never been proven, but extreme traumatic experiences have strongly been thought to have a big impact on pregnancy. Certainly, a war is considered one of those extreme experiences. I halted at my musings, which have gone far enough from the current situation in my opinion, and glanced at Sasuke once more.

I saw him slump his shoulder, both fists till clenched tightly at this side. “Fine.” I heard him mutter almost inaudibly before he proceeded to march towards a nearby bench, probably to cool his head…as impossible as that sounds right now.

“Don’t worry Sasuke-kun. I’m sure Naruto’s just fine.” I heard Sakura tell the still fuming boy before I refocused my attention on Neji who was standing in the middle of the stadium grounds. His match was about to start any second now.

**************** Naruto ******************


So, guess who won the first match? Neji of course! Yey for Neji! Yey for Konoha!

Neji was awesome. He was in pretty bad shape by the end of the match, but he was still the last man standing though! I hope he doesn’t say it’s all thanks to fate or destiny. He really deserved to receive the pat on the back for this one.

I stretch my back generously as the fifth match of the day ended. “Let’s go Uzumaki-san,” I heard Sakuraga say. “Huh? Go where? I still want to watch the next one.” I stated.

“The next one will not start until tomorrow morning,” he explained to me with his right hand still waiting for mine. Nope, not going to grab that anytime soon, not after I learned my lesson with that hugging incident.

“Why wait till tomorrow? It’s still early,” I complained, disappointed that today’s exam was already over.

“There’s a big ball that begins in about an hour. Both the participants and potential clients are going to be there. The purpose of this of course, is to provide the potential jounin a chance to market themselves, and for the clients to meet and perhaps choose whose service they might want to hire in the future.”

Oh. I guess I should go look for a room I could stay at tonight. “I see, well thank you for the seats and for your company Sakuraga-sama. If I could please have my bag back so I could find a place I could stay at?” I asked with practiced politeness.

“I already told you that you are to stay at my place. Please do not decline my offer. I will be terribly disappointed if you do.” He tried to convince me.

Disappoint my ass. Argh…I don’t know how I managed to get this guy’s unwanted attention.

“But you are going to the party are you not?” See…that’s why you can’t offer me your house! I’m going to go get some rest while you mingle in your party.

“Of course, as you are my lady.”

Haaaah? I stare at him dumbfounded. “What do you mean by that? I couldn’t possible come. I’m neither a participant nor a potential client.”

“Then come as my guest.” He stated as if it was the most obvious thing in the world.

“But my clothes…” I tried to come up with an excuse.

“Shall be provided to you by my helpers.” He ended the sentence for me with a politician’s smile. Erk. Disturbing.

I’m tired. I don’t really want to continue with this pointless argument anymore. Besides, a party means free food, a lot of really good free food. Also all the jounin candidates will be there. I want to see Sasuke.

****************
****************
****************


I wanted to see Sasuke but not in this!!!!!! I flailed my arms out as one of Sakuraga’s maids pinned the last clip on my hair. This sucks. The kimono’s nice and all, and the pins on my head are probably more expensive than all of my clothes combined but I do not like how this is making me look! This is too dressy, not to mention that this is something a real woman should wear, and not by someone in drag no matter how pregnant he may be. It’s hard to move in it and it’s hot. And the make up!! Did they really have to put that stuff on me?! I already told them I was fine without any make up on! But did they listen to me? Nooooo….they caked my face with so much stuff I’m surprised I have stopped sneezing.

I heard a knock on the door. I debated whether to say yes.
“It’s me dear.”

Oh. It’s the oh-I’m-so-hot-please-love-me Rain Lord.

“Are you ready? We should be heading to the party any minute now.”

“Coming.” I said before I grumpily dragged my feet towards the door.

Think happy thoughts Naruto. Think Sasuke.

**************** Sasuke ******************


“This is such a fancy party! It sucks a little that we had to be in our chuunin uniforms when everyone else is in their nicest party dress and suit.” Ino complained as she was pouring herself a punch.

“We are here to get more clients for Konoha you know. We got to look like professionals,” Lee said and then flashed a sparkly smile.

“What are you guys complaining about? The food’s great!” Chouji said.

“I wonder if Naruto-kun’s coming to the party.” I heard Hinata whisper. She may still harbor some feelings for Naruto. I’m not really worried about that though. I know Naruto’s heart belongs to me, and I also trust that Hinata won’t do anything to Naruto anyway.

“A party means free food, so he’d probably come,” Tenten joined the conversation.

“But he’s not a jounin candidate…he may not be able to come,” Sakura pointed out.

True. I may not see the dobe tonight after all, which is too bad since I really want to talk to him after what happened earlier.

I had all afternoon to calm my nerves. I realized just how much emotion I let out earlier. Did I temporarily turn into an alien earlier? Just how did I manage to leach so much emotion??? As weirded out as I was, I refused to let the others know how my earlier behavior have bothered me, and tried to keep my usual cool demeanor instead.

Argh. This is all the dobe’s fault. I want to ask him why the heck that guy was being too familiar with him. Speaking of which, I’ve come up of several ways to wring that guy’s neck. I’ve even imagined them multiple times already as a matter of fact. A malicious smirk covered my features as I recalled ‘Mission Kill the Lord-asshole: Alternative Strategy #4.’ I was slowly getting swallowed into my demented mind when I heard Kiba answer as he worked on a plateful of food.

“Then he’d just have to come as that Rain Lord Junior’s date,” I threw the dog-boy a menacing glare. No way will Naruto do that. However, the heavens may have chosen me as their target today because as if the events were on cue, the double doors of the room opened and revealed the said man with his date on his arm --- a blond-haired, blue-eyed ‘lady.’

I think I may be a closet ADD case, or maybe suffering a rare Naruto related ADD, because of just how fast my Naruto can divert my attention. My murderous aura was suddenly pushed to the side the moment I saw Naruto dressed in a black silk kimono, with tiny flowers as blue as his eyes, scattered across the sleeves and the hem of the dress. A dark obi comprised of different shades of blue secured his waist. His hair was partly drawn up. The upper half of his hair was secured with a couple of ornamental pins, while the lower half of his hair was kept down and was gently covering the nape of this neck. A handful of wispy bangs were left loose to frame his face, which was now whisker-free. His lips were painted red; his cheeks tinted a slight pink. Naruto was breathtaking. At times like this, I thank my ancestors for inventing the Sharingan. I thank them for letting me notice down to the smallest detail of just how wonderful Naruto looked tonight.

**************** Naruto ******************


I look like a sissy.

Most of the people in the room are looking at us. Who could blame them? This Sakuraga, as full of him as he is, staged the most eye-catching entrance one could possibly make in the party. I’m feeling rather self-conscious as a girl, because I know that I’m not!!!!! I want to wipe my face clean, remove these uncomfortable layers of clothing, and go back to Konoha. I just wanted to see everyone, especially Sasuke. Did I really have to go through all this trouble?

A middle-aged man approached Sakuraga and started talking to him to what appears to be political matters. I took this opportunity to excuse myself using the reason that I was going to get myself a drink.

Once I was a good distance away from the clingy lord, I glanced side to side desperate to see someone I know. My quick search was interrupted when I felt a hand hold my arm. “Are you looking for someone, Miss? Or would you like me to keep you company instead?” an unknown guy lamely picked me up. I was just about to decline his offer when I felt another hand grab my other arm.

Ouch this one’s grip hurts. I turned to look at the new arm’s owner.

**************** Sasuke ******************


“She was looking for me. Your company’s not needed.” I shooed the man away.

Naruto’s attracting way too much attention. The idiot’s too dense as to how especially attractive he looks tonight. I glare at him to drill into that little brain of his that he shouldn’t be too careless when I felt his arms surround my neck.

“Sasuke…” he said with a warm smile. “I’ve missed you so much already,” he continued as he leaned his head into the crook of my neck.

I am actually feeling a bit sweaty. We’ve never done anything remotely like this in public, much less in such a huge gathering!

“Naruto, people can see us.” I reminded him with a soft whisper, my hands never leaving my side.

“I know,” he grinned mischievously, before whispering what seemed like a purr to me. “But this is another land, people don’t know exactly who I am, nor do they realize that I’m not a girl.”

The dobe’s right. A little public show of affection wouldn’t hurt, would it? I want to hold him so bad. Besides, maybe this will ward off some of the unwanted stares and leers that Naruto’s receiving. I slowly wrapped my arms protectively around him pulling him slightly closer to me.

“Hanyaaa~~ so lovey dovey already” Kiba teased, which made me realize that we were actually holding each other in front of the other Konoha participants. I could not contain the blush that crept up my cheeks.

“Sasuke-san’s blushing!” Lee pointed out, making my whole face blush this time despite efforts to control my embarrassment. I refuse to let my pride go though, at least what’s left of it after today’s events, so I denied the obvious flat out.

“No I’m not.”

This earned smirks from Shikamaru and Shino, and a huge bout of laughter from everyone else. I noticed some movement from the person I was holding and saw that Naruto too was laughing at my denial.

I huffed and muttered the most antisocial “Hn” I could muster. To my displeasure, my comeback only gained even more laughter.

“You guys better start mingling and get Konoha some good business!” Naruto cheered. “I’ll see you in a bit Sasuke. I need to use the restroom. Mingle ok?” he said with a wink. I emitted a grunt in response.

**************** Naruto ******************


I was walking rather happily as I made my way outside the restroom. I’m having quite a good time tonight despite my challenging disguise. I recalled how Sasuke reacted from the hug some minutes ago and could not help but release another healthy round of laughter. Sasuke blushing is just too damn cute!! I was still laughing like a weirdo right outside the bathroom door when I felt myself being pulled strongly to the left.

“What do you think you’re doing bastard?!?!?” I cried out as I pushed the taller man away from me. I have gotten over my initial state of shock, and have realized what had just happened. I step out of the washroom and all of a sudden someone grabbed me to the side and tried to kiss me. Argh. Talk about gross. “Pervert.” I grumbled as I tried to smoothen out my kimono. I may not be able to use my genjutsu and ninjutsu right now, but I can still practice a little taijutsu as long as I don’t overdo it. I am not going to let anyone just pounce on me!

The pervert is looking at me as if I had just slapped him across his face. It must be because of my sudden lack of manners, or maybe because of the punch he just received. Dude. If you were the one getting molested here, you’ll probably throw the manners out the window yourself. I ignored his flabbergasted state and started looking for Sasuke.

Huh? Weird. I can’t find Sasuke.

“Hmm….a fiery one may actually prove to be quite interesting.” I heard the pervert comment behind me, as he shot an arm and grabbed my wrist while his other hand was still tending the bruised cheek I just gave him.

Oh please. Get away from me already.

I was just about to tell the man to leave me alone, when I saw him being shoved to the wall.

“Leave the lady alone. She obviously does not appreciate your advances.” Sasuke growled heavily on the man’s face, his hands glued on the wall on either side of the pervert’s head.

“And what gives you the right to speak for the lady?” the man asked. He’s digging his own grave. I give him props for not pissing in his pants and actually managing a smart comeback while Sasuke’s glaring at him like that.

I guess I should do something to make the problem go away fast. I don’t really want to stir up anything huge during the party.

“I’d like to introduce you to someone very dear to me. This is my boyfriend Uchiha Sasuke.”

The man’s eyes dilated. How could he have not seen that one coming?

“So, did you get that asshole?” Sasuke let his voice drip with venom. “Uzumaki-chan is mine, and I don’t like sharing my favorites.”


****************
****************


I giggled once more, using Sasuke’s shoulder to support me.

“It wasn’t that funny dobe. I don’t even think it’s funny at all. So, would you stop giggling already?”

I heard Sasuke say with frustration, making me giggle even more. Well, *I* thought it was funny.

“I don’t like sharing my favorites.” I repeated with a mock-Sasuke voice before I broke down into laughter once more. Who knew the oh-so-cool Sasuke can be such a possessive bastard, who actually uses such cliché lines?

“Fine. Don’t stop laughing if you think it’s that funny. Since you don’t seem to have a problem with sharing, I might as well humor myself by returning some of the attention I was getting tonight.”

My laughter slowly faded away. I usually would have just ignored his little threat because come on, this is Sasuke after all! He isn’t exactly known to be a flirt. It wouldn’t have bothered me if he ended the statement with a smirk.

But he didn’t.

His face still looked so serious, that it was making me rather nervous. I didn’t even bother to see how the other guests were looking at Sasuke, because it’s really just a given that the Uchiha attracts a huge percentage of the population everywhere he goes. I gulped before I grabbed onto his sleeve. “Don’t.”

“Don’t what?” he asked me with an annoyed tone.

Argh. Sasuke can be so uptight sometimes. Scrap that, I mean most of the time. “Don’t go. I didn’t mean to make fun of you…that much…” I added with a small smile. Yes, the smile always seems to work like a miracle on him.

But not tonight I guess. He’s still glaring at me pretty badly. I quickly racked myself of what else I could say, and quickly supplied, “I don’t like sharing my favorites either and Sasuke’s my favorite among my favorites, so…” There. Rather embarrassingly sappy attempt but hopefully that worked.

I could see Sasuke’s frown waver a little. Good. Thank goodness Sasuke’s such a closet mush ball. Heh, I don’t think he even realizes that he had that part in him. I laughed inwardly as I motioned to cup his face.

“Uzumaki-san! There you are. I’ve been looking all around for you.”

I released a heavy sigh as I reluctantly pulled my hand back.

**************** Sasuke ******************


Naruto’s childish reaction to my possessive side really ticked me off. It’s just like him to ruin the moment. I was ready to just ignore him all night, but then he started acting all cute that I just couldn’t let myself stay angry at him. Damn him.

I saw him reach for my face and I was ready to lean into his touch as well, when the devil popped up.

“Ah, Sakuraga-sama! You were busy with the other lords, so I decided to hang out with my friends in the meantime.” Naruto explained to the man.

“I see.” He replied to Naruto before addressing me. “Oh, are you not Uchiha Sasuke? I am very excited to see your match against our village’s number one Chuunin.”

I was just about ready to mumble a ‘Hn’ when I heard Naruto whisper to me the word “mingle.” I frowned in obvious displeasure. I don’t like this guy at all. Hell, I had planned various ways to mutilate him in less than 5 minutes. He was touching Naruto earlier, my Naruto. Speaking of which, I have forgotten to ask Naruto about that. I sighed in temporary defeat as I remembered what Shikamaru had mentioned earlier about stress and decided that I’ll just have to ask the blond later. I answered coldly. “Yes. I am looking forward to the match as well.”

“Good. And I see that you happen to know Uzumaki-san? Are you good friends by any chance?”

I smirked at the obvious curiosity and implied inquiry of his simple question. I was about to tell him that ‘Uzumaki-san’ just happens to be mine, when Naruto interrupted me.

“Yes we’re very good friends!”

Unhappy with the answer Naruto had supplied, I let my hand rest on the small of his back and tugged him a little closer to me.

The Rain Lord must have picked up on my subtle hint because he raised his eyebrow a little at me, while his lips tugged downwards just a little bit.

I smirked lightly at his reaction.

“I think we better go now Uzumaki-san. The exams start early tomorrow.” He said as he extended a hand for Naruto.

I glared at the hand. How dare he think that Naruto would even touch that hand of his, much less leave the party with him. Why would Naruto do that anyway? I held Naruto even closer as my glare intensified. I felt Naruto shift beside me and turn around so that we were standing face to face. I couldn’t help but smile when I saw the surprised yet annoyed look on the Lord’s face.

My superior moment was ruined when I heard Naruto whisper. “I’m going with Sakuraga now. I’ll see you tomorrow.” He flashed a sweet smile at me before kissing my left cheek softly.

I watched him walk beside Sakuraga. Naruto thankfully refused to acknowledge the bastard’s hand before the pair started heading towards the door. Honestly, I was rather pissed off and surprised about Naruto’s actions. Why is he leaving with the bastard? I was still glaring at their backs and was just about to follow them to retrieve my blond back, when Naruto turned around and waved at me. “Good night Sasuke. I’ll see you tomorrow, k? You better win!” He cheered before finally disappearing as he rounded a corner.


****************
****************


“Oi Sasuke, where’s Naruto?” I heard Kiba ask as we were preparing to leave.

“He left with Sakuraga a while ago,” I grumbled.

“Eh? Why is he with him? Why is Naruto here anyway, dressed as a girl to make things even more confusing? He’s still pregnant right?” the boy asked.

“Of course he’s still pregnant Kiba! Naruto can’t give birth in less than 5 months,” Ino said as she rolled her eyes at the boy.

“No need to be so torqued about it, geez..I was just asking.”

“Naruto can take care of himself. We better head back to the hotel and get some rest since most of us have matches tomorrow. Besides we better check up on Neji and see if he’s still alive.” Shikamaru instructed before mumbling what sounded like ‘bothersome’ under his breath.

**************** Naruto ******************


The carriage trip back to Sakuraga’s gigantic home was a rather silent one. No suggestive talks or actions. We were just riding quietly. I didn’t really mind it. I may be known for my loud behavior but there are times when I want to just stay quiet too, and this was one of those times. It is already awkward pretending to be a girl, much less trying to pry unwanted attention while trying to keep my cover. Sakuraga offered to walk me to my room once we arrived at his home. I was too tired to argue otherwise, so I just let him be my temporary tour guide in the mansion.

“Thank you for tonight Sakuraga-sama.” I said once we have reached my bedroom door.

“You’re welcome Uzumaki-san.” I heard him say. I was just about to turn the doorknob when I felt his hand rest on my arm. I reluctantly turned around and asked him what he needed.

“About Uchi---” He started.

I just raised my eyebrows at him expectantly, waiting for him to finish whatever he was trying to say.

“Never mind. We’ll talk about it tomorrow. I know we are both tired. I’ll see you tomorrow then.” He said to my surprise. I was so sure he wanted to ask me something. Well, whatever. I don’t really care about what was bothering him. I just shrugged my shoulders as I saw him pivot and start walking away. I promptly turned towards my door and had started to push the heavy wood open, when I felt a fleeting pressure on my right cheek. “Goodnight Uzumaki-san.” I heard him say before he started walking away again.

The bastard kissed me!!! I grumbled obscenities before shutting the door behind me. I made sure that the lock was securely held in place, before I wedged a seat against the door just to be absolutely sure.


****************
****************


Ah…my second day at Rain, and the second day of the Jounin exams. Unlike yesterday, today’s matches were scheduled to start 6 hours earlier than yesterday’s. It’s bright and early and you could just feel the energy from the crowd and of course from the participants themselves. I settled myself comfortably on the plush seats in the VIP box as we waited for the announcer to get started. Yes, I have the opportunity of sitting in the awesome box once again thanks to my host for the time being. Sakuraga hasn’t really said anything much today. I don’t know if it’s because he’s not much of a morning person, or maybe he’s just busy thinking of …I don’t know… stuff lords think about? I was reaching for a glass of water when I heard him speak.

“What do you think about today’s matches Uzumaki-san?”

“I don’t really know much of the other village’s chuunin, but I know all of Konoha’s participants so I’ll be cheering for all of them. I know they’ll pass the test!” I answered brightly. “Especially Sasuke! I just know he’ll win the match and get the rank with no difficulty. That bastard’s just damn good you know? As much as I would hate to admit it, he’s really an excellent ninja. They aren’t kidding when they say that he’s a genius!” I added with much energy momentarily forgetting about the concept of being polite, being a lady, and pretending to be not the usual Naruto. I looked at the lord and saw a hint of surprise and amusement in his face.

Crap. I said too much. I hope he won’t suspect anything.

“Hahaha..that’s just what I think Sakuraga-sama,” I added lamely, unsure if that lame remark even did anything to help my situation.

I heard a soft chuckle from the Lord beside me which confused me.

“I didn’t know that you were capable of using such language Uzumaki-san. A lord would normally be appalled by hearing such language from a young lady, but surprisingly, your choice of words is doing the opposite to me. I think I’m really starting to get fond of you.”

Haaa? Now that was the last thing on my mind when I started ranting about Sasuke. I let my jaw hang open, only to close it again for lack of anything to say. I heard the Lord release a good amount of chuckles at my expense. I saw him start to inch closer to my face, obviously planning to do something I would not appreciate. I bolted from my chair and started acting all excited.

“Finally! The announcer has decided to start the matches! The first match is Sakura’s match!” I yelled enthusiastically to no one in particular. I glanced discretely to Sakuraga who have now sat back and was trying to actually concentrate on the match. Whew. Close call. I grinned broadly before I yelled, “Good luck SAKURA-CHAAAN!!!”

**************** Sasuke ******************


I’m still pretty pissed off at Naruto for spending the night at that lord-bastard’s place. I really, really have to have a long talk with him after this whole thing. I’m getting a teeny bit stressed out about this whole deal that I’m slightly worried that it would affect my concentration during the match. I decide to look up at the Lord’s box and saw that Naruto and Sakuraga were just talking. Good. Well, not really. I would much rather prefer if Naruto severed all ties with that rich boy, but for now just talking would have to do. I sighed as I heard Naruto scream Sakura’s name. That female voice he’s sporting is really quite annoying. It can be rather high-pitched. I wonder if he made it that way, just to push me even more to the edge. I grumbled some incoherent words before I focused my sight to the match that was about to start.

**************** Shikamaru ******************


Why am I even doing this? It clearly isn’t my problem. I frowned as I made my way up the VIP box. I’m only doing this once. I decided before I spotted a blond head leaving the box I was headed to. “Naruto!” I called.

“Ey, Shikamaru! Man! Whatcha doin’ here? The match is still going on you know! You shouldn’t just wander around! Show some moral support for your friends and village! Stare at the clouds some other time.” The idiot rambled on and on and on.

“I’m not here to look at the clouds idiot. I was looking for you.” I explained exasperatedly.

“Huh? Me? Did you miss me already?” He kid with a huge goofy grin on his face.

“Stop being a baka. You’ve already established that you are one a long time ago.”

“Heeeey!!!” was his genius comeback.

Let’s just make this quick and simple. I took a large intake of breath before I started explaining to Naruto why I was there exactly. “Sasuke’s really distracted Naruto, and I think it has something to do with you. I frankly have no business with it but I don’t want Konoha to look bad, alright? Especially since everyone’s so hyped about seeing Uchiha fight.”

“Eh? What am I supposed to do? What’s eating Sasuke anyway?”

Gods. I’m so glad I’m not the one having a baby with Naruto. I cannot imagine living everyday like this. Sasuke’s really something. “Just talk to him. Do whatever you usually do that fire him up or cheers him up or whatever. Do whatever you need to do to calm down your overprotective, extremely jealous boyfriend.”

**************** Naruto ******************


I blushed hotly at Shikamaru’s comment. Does everybody really think that Sasuke gets that way because of me?

“I…I’ll try.” I answered unsure, still embarrassed about this whole deal.

“Good. His match is coming up, right after the next match so I’m going to go send him to the waiting room in a little bit to make him get something for me. Use that opportunity to talk to him, alright? Don’t waste the opportunity and prove to me this indeed is just a troublesome issue.” Shikamaru said as he made his way back to the other participants.

I nodded behind him even though I knew that he couldn’t see me anymore. I walked hurriedly towards the waiting room to make sure that I get there before Sasuke does. I don’t know what I was supposed to do though. What am I supposed to even say? ‘Sasuke! Stop being all mopey and revert back to being the usual cold bastard!’

I wonder if that will work.


**************** Sasuke ******************


I mumbled under my breath as I walked towards the waiting room. I stuffed my hands in my pockets as I recalled why I’m even walking right now. Apparently, Shikamaru has left his lucky shogi piece in the waiting room. And he really, really needed it because according to him, he has never taken a test without the stupid piece with him. I’m really suspicious about that story especially since he went out of his way to ask me directly to go get it for him. He made up this weird excuse that he couldn’t get it himself because Chouji’s match is next and he promised Chouji that he’ll be there watching the whole time. I mumbled some more curses as I padded on the empty halls. It really isn’t that much big of a deal to retrieve a chess piece. I’ve just been a hell of a lot moodier than usual since yesterday. I grabbed the door knob and violently shoved the door open.

“Geez…do you have to murder each door you open teme?” I heard from the only occupant in the room.

“What are you doing here?” I asked surprised. Shikamaru….I started to add up.

The dobe just grinned at me before gesturing to close the door behind me. I complied before I made my way towards him.

“I heard from someone that you’ve been really distracted.” He started with the grin still present on his face.

“Shikamaru.” I grumbled low but loud enough for him to hear.

“Hey. He was just worried about his friend ok? Also, he told me something interesting!” he perked up which made my eye twitch a bit. Just what did that lazy bum say now?

“Something about jealous people and stuff like that?” Naruto said with an amused glint in his eyes.

I struggled to keep my blush down as I started coming up of ways to mutilate the cloud-obsessed fellow. My revenge plans were put into a halt when Naruto’s rich laughter filled my ears. I glanced curiously at him and raised a single eyebrow, expectantly waiting for an explanation to accompany the sudden outburst.

“You know, you can be unbelievably adorable at times.” He explained making my face beet red. I certainly was not expecting that. And as if my already red ears were not enough for him, he added, “Really, really cute if you ask me.” I blushed some more if that’s even humanely possible. He chuckled at my expense before wrapping his arms around my neck. “It really makes me happy that I am able to see this side of you Sasuke.” He whispered tenderly.

I wrapped my arms around his waist automatically as I snuggled my nose into his neck. I inhaled his scent before licking the area behind his ear. I felt him shiver under my touch and that immediately brought a smirk to my features.

“I want you to win the match Sasuke. Don’t be distracted ok?” Naruto said as he leaned to my touch.

“How can I not be distracted when I could clearly see you in the company of another man?” I replied stubbornly. “What are you doing here anyway? As a girl? Why are you with the lord bastard and why did you leave with him last night?”

Naruto released a soft sigh at the end of my rambling.

“Why did you let him embrace you?” I whispered softly, angry at myself for making my insecurity so obvious with that question.

I felt Naruto’s hold on me become tighter before I heard him utter, “Sasuke you idiot. You already know the answers to your questions yet you still pretend you don’t. Maybe you just like torturing yourself?” He grinned at me playfully as I felt him shower my neck with kisses, slowly working his way down my chest.

“I’m here because I wanted to see you so bad. I’m a girl thanks to Tsunade-baa-chan’s great plan. I’m with the narcissistic bastard right now because he offered me the best seats in the competition, and I left with him last night because he offered me free room and board.” I watched Naruto gulp and inhale a deep breath before continuing his explanation. He was now on his knees in front of me, fumbling with my belt, his eyebrows knotted in concentration. “And most importantly, I did not let that bastard embrace me. He just pulled me out of nowhere.” He stood up slowly, abandoning my pants temporarily. “You know very well that I only want one pair of arms to hold me like that.” He smiled sweetly at me before whispering ‘I love you Sasuke’ in my ear.

I grinned evilly before I whispered back… “Naruto…”

He snuggled closer to my neck which made my hidden smirk even wider. “I never thought you could come up with such cliché lines that one could only hear in sappy romance chick flicks.”

He suddenly pushed me away and was now glaring at me while sporting a bright blush.

“You bastard!! I was being serious. It’s just like you to get even with absolutely everything!”

He fumed at me while I still kept the smirk on my face and muttered a ‘Hn.’ Ha! That’s what you get for calling me cliché last night!


**************** Naruto ******************


“Argh. Stupid, arrogant, immature bastard!” I exclaimed as I pushed my way towards the door. Damn the insensitive jerk.

I was still muttering profanities when I felt a hand hastily grabbed my right arm before I could even touch the door knob. He forced me around to look at him. Stubborn as I was, all I allowed him to see was the fuming expression on my face.

I saw him let go of the usual cocky smirk and offered me an awkward smile instead. I couldn’t help but cock on eyebrow at his actions, curiously waiting for what he had to say.

“So, how are you feeling? How’s the baby? Is everything all right?” he started to ask as I allowed his hand to drift above my belly. I couldn’t help but release the scowl from my face and relax at his questions. I nodded lightly at him.

**************** Sasuke ******************


“Yeah…everything’s ok. No problem at all. So don’t worry about it ok? Just win the match so you can bring in more money!” he joked, completely changing attitudes towards me. “I’m going to go back now. Sakuraga’s probably wondering what’s taking me so long. You better go back too Sasuke, your match is probably starting soon. It would be a shame if you lost because of a technicality like tardiness!” He laughed.

“Fine, I’ll go. I still don’t understand why you have to go back to that bastard’s box.”

“I already explained that ---“

I cut him on purpose, not really thrilled to be talking about the man again. “I know, I know. It still bothers me ok?” I grumbled with a scowl on my face.

Naruto giggled before teasing me. “Sa-chan is really jealous, ne?” He giggled some more.

“Whatever. So what if I’m jealous?” I finally admitted almost inaudibly. Argh, what’s up with that pet name anyway? I hate it.

“That’s why you’re so cute Sasuke-koi!” Naruto exclaimed, again after a string of snickers. This is so not funny. I am not cute! I mumbled frustrated words under my breath as I made my way out of the waiting room. I was already heading back to the field when I felt Naruto pull my ear for a whisper.

“Your opponent is Sakuraga’s favorite chuunin you know. If you pulverize this guy, I promise you something really good will happen in bed, hrmm…or maybe not even on bed this time, when we get back to Konoha.” My eyes dilated at his bribe before glancing to see him wink suggestively at me. With that, he turned to the opposite direction and hurriedly went back to where Sakuraga was.

I let a smirk fully form on my lips as I made my way back.

As if I was going to lose in the first place anyway.





Author’s notes will be collective this time or else it would just be waaaaaaay too long. Besides, most reviewers had the same thoughts, questions, and/or anticipated events anyway so hopefully this answers everyone.

First and foremost, I would loooooove to thank everyone who reviewed the last time. Thank you for the kind words and praises. You all made my day infinitely brighter!

I was quite surprised by the amount of people who thought that I would make Sasuke beat the crap out of the Lord’s son XD It never even entered my mind, nor did a possible conflict between Konoha and Rain because of his interest in Naruto. Umm…I hope that’s ok with most of you. So you won’t be seeing any wars in here. I just want a fic based on relationships and Naruto’s 9 months of pregnancy. *thinks some more* Writing Sasuke in this chapter was actually a major pain. I mean…after thinking for a looooong time about what the reviews said…I was finding it extremely hard to not let Sasuke resort to violence. I mean come on, this is Sasuke after all. But then again, if I let him crush the Lord, I am so sure that Rain would have to do something about it right? They can’t just let that one go! I’ll probably rush through the consequential war/fight so I could make Naruto’s pregnancy the main focus again, and the rush would probably create too many plot holes and make the story really messy and extremely hard to write (battle scenes are always hard to write, at least in my case) so I’m going to avoid that route all together. I kinda inserted some stuff in this chapter to sorta justify my decision. Besides my OC’s are disposable characters =P You won’t be seeing them after the Jounin exam. Uhh…soo…to sum it all up, I’m not exactly happy with this chapter. I personally think that the chapter started out on the weak side and Sasuke’s a bit OOC. What do you guys and girls think? *heavy sigh*

Now…someone (by this I mean Lisullenlye) was afraid that Sakuraga would actually rape Naruto. The answer to that would most definitely be a no. I’m not comfortable writing or reading anything NCS (Although, some of my favorite fanfics do have such events but they were essential for the plot so it was bearable).

Oh and Naruto actually had a mood swing here!!! *beams proudly* Did anyone even notice it? (You would have, if you squinted reaaally hard!) *lol* I sure didn’t notice it the first 3 times I read the fic, lol.

BTW, I want to let you know that I am very fond of cliffhangers. Very, very fond. *evil laughter* Seriously ^^;; I think they’re awesome. So uhh…don’t throw things at me when I give cliffies k? You know you love it too! Hehe XP

Ohh..yeah…one last thing! I sent a “New Chapter Alert” email to everyone who requested for one. If you would like to be included in this alert thingie just leave me note in the review so I could include you in the next round.

Gawd…I’m sorry for the long author’s notes. *blushes* I’ll go back to responding individually next chapter granted that I don’t have a gigantic AN like this one.

Preview to the next chapter: Fluff alert! Drunks singing karaoke. Baby kicking! And everyone’s finally going back to Konoha…see how the 5th month ends ^^