High School Never Ends

Month: July

Pairing(s): KakaIru, Minor Others

Chapter Rating: R

Word Count: 8693 words

Chapter Summary: After a heavy confrontation with an old friend, Iruka can't bare it anymore.

Betas: Kaomi-Uchiha + ThunderEmperorRaite

---

-The Jounin Committee went into full throttle when July came about. The school was going to hold its first festival of the year soon. Everyone in the committee pitched in to help, though there was tension in the air whenever Kakashi and Iruka were in the same room. Iruka kept focused on his job as being the mascot, talking with the girls, taking hints from them, figuring out how to pass off as one of them. He did occasionally glare at Kakashi, who helped making decorations and arranged other preparations, but for the most part, the young boy acted as if the other did not exist. Kakashi, on the other hand, stole glimpses here and there. He stared more often at Iruka than Iruka at him and wished nothing more to be on his good side again, but he knew when the boy was mad and didn't want to make the situation worse. Kakashi cared for Iruka still, but decided that if Iruka wished to not be involved with him anymore, then so be it. Iruka's happiness was all that mattered to Kakashi, even if it meant that he wasn't involved.



The days went on like that until the day before the festival.



"Alright!" Obito exclaimed as he collapsed upon a chair. "We're done!" The rest of the gang sighed and laughed in agreement. "Let's go out and celebrate! Yamato's treat!"



"I'm not paying, Obito!" Tenzou lashed out. "You're not getting out of paying for your own meal. You still owe me money from the last time we went out… And the time before that!"



"Come on, Tenzou," Obito begged, trying to cozy up. Tenzou remained stiff as a board. "Then, Asuma! Can-"



"No."



"But-"



"No." Obito moaned in defeat.



"Come on, I'll pay," Kakashi intervened. "Not just for Obito, but for everyone." Everyone cheered and chose to head down to a new restaurant called Ichiraku, down the street. Iruka looked on and just smiled as he packed up his things.



"Iruka, what are you doing?" Rin asked. "Please don't tell me it's about Kakashi!" she whined. "You deserve to come out with us!"



"Nah, it's not that," he said, Kakashi secretly listening in. "I have a test tomorrow in algebra," he replied, rubbing his facial scar. Of course it was because of Kakashi. If there was anyone he didn't want to be with, more so to have to rely on for money, it was Kakashi. Yet, the more he told himself that he should not go, the more the pain in his heart grew. Now, while his stomach was in knots, was not the best time to deal with the senior. Damn it, I should not be feeling like this! Damn, Kakashi… Iruka waved bye to the girls and headed out the door. He flew down the stairs and barely made it out the main doors when he was stopped.



"You know, Rin is right," a voice bellowed from behind him. "You deserve this. You shouldn't choose not to go because of me." Iruka turned and saw Kakashi, his shoulders slumped and his eyes filled with remorse. Iruka paused for a minute, deciding on whether to even bother to reply to him.



"I'll tell you what I told Rin: I have a test tomorrow. I need to study," he said in a stern voice, brushing his scar. He turned back and placed his hand on the door, only for it to be joined by another. "Kakashi, I-"



"You know, you can't a lie," he said. "If rubbing your scar is not a dead giveaway, then I don't know what is." Iruka formed his hand into a fist and took a few seconds to cool down before responding.



"Kakashi, listen! I'm not-"



"I've seen you with your friends and you do the same thing when you lie to them. Don't pretend that you-"



"Why the hell were you even spying on me?" Iruka exploded, shoving his hand away from the others. "I don't know what kind of sick games you like to play with me but I want it to stop! Don't make me issue a damn restraining order!"



"I'm not playing any games, Iruka!" Kakashi insisted. "This is hard enough for me to deal with!"



"You think this is hard for you? You, this great senior everyone looks up to," Iruka snarled in a sarcastic tone. "How can this be hard for you to deal with?"



"It is!"



"How?"



Kakashi said not a word as he shoved Iruka back to the nearest wall, dropped his mask, dived in, and kissed Iruka forcefully. Iruka grumbled under the kiss, his fingers digging into Kakashi's arms. Yet, his face immediately flushed, his head started to spin, and his heartbeat quickened. Iruka continued to claw at the other's arms, trying to pry him off. Yet, no matter how much Iruka resisted, Kakashi stayed like a stone wall, keeping his stance, unmoving. Only when both had the need for air did Kakashi pull away, but he kept his face close. He looked back upon Iruka, eyes glazed over. Iruka flinched slightly at Kakashi's hot breath tickling his wet lips. They stayed like that for what seemed like an eternity, lost in each other's eyes.



Kakashi attempted for another kiss but was stopped by a fist, striking him directly in the face. The strike echoed in the hallway as Kakashi tumbled down and landed hard on the ground.



"Don't… ever… do that… to me… again," Iruka said, his voice monotone and filled with hate as he brought his hand to his lip. He tried his best to hold back his tears.



"Iruka…"



"I don't like you, alright!" Iruka said without hesitation, without eye contact. "Get that through your thick skull! I wish I never met you!" Kakashi studied Iruka's face for a moment and sighed. It was filled with rage, his eyes tearing, and his fist still shaking. He took one big gulp before he turned around and fled out the door.



Kakashi on the other hand, sat still on the school floor tile for a minute before striking his own fist down on the ground.



...Damn!

---

The next morning started out perfect.



There was not a cloud in the sky to prevent the festival from being a success. Everyone got to school early to start putting everything up. Iruka looked on as he watched Genma and Raidou bicker about putting up a banner while Tenzou tried to stop Obito's fire antics before the fire alarm went off. He desperately wanted to help. He hated having to watch them do everything. But the group insisted that Iruka's sole job was to get people to come by. They were already forcing him to dress like a girl. He shouldn't have to do more than what he was asked to do.



"Where the hell is Kakashi?" Asuma asked, carrying boxes filled with advertisements. "He was supposed to be here hours ago, helping us." Iruka perked his head up at the mention of the other boy. He hadn't heard a word from him since yesterday after their altercation. True, the guy was an ass, but he shouldn't get out on helping out. Earlier in the day, Iruka actually had the courage this time to pick up his phone and try calling him. Yet, every time, it went straight to voicemail. Even today, he went around the school looking for the senior in his usual spots where he would hang around while ditching class. Nothing. He was nowhere to be found.



Why did I hit him? Why can't I just say to him what I really want to say to him?



"Iruka!"



"Huh?"



"Iruka…" Hiyoko sighed. "Are you ok? I've been calling your name for a while now!"



"Oh, sorry!" Iruka tried to laugh off. "My mind was elsewhere."



"Please don't start talking like Kakashi now."



Great, now he's even rubbing off on me…



"Come on! Kurenai's been looking for you!" she said as she dragged the brunet behind her. Hiyoko brought Iruka to the back of the meeting room and to the closet. Kurenai was there, putting some last minute touches on the yukata. "I'll leave you two alone."



"There you are," Kurenai pouted. "Come on! We have to get you ready! We're already an hour behind!" She pushed him in and locked the door behind him. Iruka gulped. She immediately started to strip Iruka of his clothes, much to his insistency to do it himself. She tossed aside his uniform, leaving the freshman dressed only in briefs. She tossed him a stuffed bra to wear, and with a moan, he slowly put it on. Kurenai growled looking at Iruka and took control. She swooped in and went behind Iruka and hooked the bra. Iruka gasped as Kurenai's swiftness. She instantly threw the yukata around Iruka, rushing his arms through the sleeves. She wrapped him up and tied the sash around his waist. She grabbed the nearby hanhaba obi nearby, wrapped it around him twice, and fastened it together in a simple asagao knot. Lastly, she twisted a delicate obijime around the obi. With that done, she pushed him outside.



"Kure-"



"No worries. The closet doesn't have good lighting!" she insisted, shoving the boy onto a chair. Suddenly, Iruka was staring at himself in a mirror. He sighed. He already started to look like a girl in the yukata, even without make-up. "Rin! Can you come here and start with his hair while I put on the make-up?"



The two girls continued working together on Iruka, Kurenai applying a touch of blush while Rin was behind him, straightening his hair. Both girls complimented on the boy's soft complexion and silky hair. Iruka just nodded as a thank you. He was always teased about having more girlish features when he was young. He was still too focused on the Kakashi's disappearance to say a word. He started to regret ever hitting the boy or yelling at him or denying him the first time around.



"Ok, what's wrong?" Kurenai finally said.



"Huh? Nothing's wrong," Iruka said calmly, trying to resist the urge to touch his scar.



"It's easy to tell when something is bugging you, Iruka," Kurenai said. "You're too easy to read. Now tell us what's wrong." Iruka looked down, avoiding eye contact.



"It's… complicated…" Kurenai sighed as she reached behind him, putting away the lip gloss and grabbed a compact.



"Fine. If you don't want to tell us, that's fine. But remember: We're here to whenever you need us, Iruka," she said, finishing up. Rin agreed, placing her hands on his shoulders. Iruka cracked a small smile.



"Thank you, Kurenai, Rin."



Kurenai continued on. Iruka's scar was the most distinguishable feature about him. Anyone could pick him out of a crowd because of it. Kurenai even had to go out and buy a darker shade of concealer to help hide his scar. Iruka, as much as it disgusted him, went along with it as mascara was being applied and his hair put up. A promise is a promise. Plus, it was just for one day only. All thanks to…



"Hey, Kakashi!" Kurenai shouted. "The others were looking for you down the hall!" she said, pointing past her and Iruka. Kakashi simply nodded. Iruka's eyes turned toward Kakashi, watching his every movement, watching him walking away farther and farther from him, seeing that he was not bothering to glace back.



"Iruka, what is it?" Kurenai asked.



"It's… nothing," he said as he turned back, his tone depressed.

---

Iruka made a great model. His hair glistened in the sunlight as he twirled and smiled at incoming guests. His yukata sparkled as well, just like how the ocean would sparkle when the sun rose on a new day. With a small, delicate fan in his hand, he handed out flyers and directed people along to the Committee's festival. Many people stood and gawked at him. Some loved it, some so much they stopped to take pictures of him or with him. Many men had come up and asked many questions, whether if he attended the school or if he had a boyfriend, or even offered their phone number. Iruka tried his best not to lose his temper when turning them all down.



Students and faculty came from all around to see what the Jounin Committee had to offer. Many had enjoyed the theme, especially Obito's fire juggling, at least until Principal Hiruzen stopped him before he set the school on fire. The other girls dressed up as well, but as far as that, Iruka remained the cutest. Many said that they got the news from the 'cute little girl in the yukata.' Every time Iruka heard that, he cringed.



"My! So cute!" a voice said from behind the boy. Iruka turned and was staring directly a giant furry fox tail. He glanced up to see what appeared to be a boy with long dark brown hair tied into a long braid accompanied by a pair of fox ears. Behind them was another, this time a tall, male student clad in cat gear. Iruka immediately recognized the two as Raite and Kuro, respectively, both members from the school's animal club. Iruka thought it would only be right for them to dress up as animals for the festival.



"Oh! Hello! Please come by the Jounin Committee's room!" Iruka quickly said, getting into character. He handed out a flyer to the two, but instead of taking them, Raite turned and started to pat and flip Iruka's pigtails.



"Ah! Totemo kawaii!" Raite exclaimed as he pretended to sniff along his face, just like an animal would do. Iruka resisted all urges to punch him right there and then.



That was not the only time he felt violated. At times, the freshman even felt a pair of perverted eyes in the form of shining glares from sunglasses from the corner of his eyes. Though every time he turned his head, he saw nothing.



There were another pair of eyes on him, but at least the brunet knew from whom. Shiroi from the fellow freshman class was not that great at hiding. But Iruka let it slide by. He knew the girl to be a bit quiet around everyone. He recalled how, on one of his first days of school, he tried saying hello to her only for her to only nod, smile, and hurry away.



As much as Iruka felt like he was being stalked, he had to keep his part of the bargain. He made a promise. He wasn't going to back out now. At least no one recognized him. Kurenai and Rin sure could work wonders.



Yet, no matter how many people he met with, not once did he make contact with Kakashi once he was fully transformed. It did upset the freshman a little. Why, he couldn't figure out.



Eventually, as the day went on, the crowds soon died down.



Before everyone knew it, it was time to close.



Iruka sighed as he entered a nearby classroom to change. It was a fun day, he had to admit it, even if he spent the whole day as a girl. Oh well, it was time to stop this little charade. He slid off his geta and started to untie the obijime when a voice from behind stopped him dead in his tracks.



"Hey, you were cute out there," a voice from behind called out to Iruka. Iruka stood still as the hairs on the back of his neck stood still. His hands shook a little while he took a giant gulp.



"Oh, really? Thank you!" Iruka turned around and told Mizuki, still under disguise as a girl. Mizuki moved toward Iruka. "But I'm sorry. You can't come back here. Members only." Mizuki continued on only to close the door behind him and turn off the ceiling lights. Only the dim light from a nearby lamp illuminated the room. A short click sound followed. Locked in!



"You know, I haven't seen you around campus. You new?"



"Ah… no. I'm just a friend of Kurenai-chan's. I actually attend Kiri a few cities away. Now please, I insist that you leave. We can talk when I'm done cleaning up."



"Tsk. Come on, I was thinking we could get to know one another!" Mizuki said cheerfully.



"We can, just please let me finish. So if you don't mind, you have to get out," Iruka persisted. It wasn't enough. Mizuki was becoming very demanding. Each step he took toward Iruka, Iruka took a step back. Soon, Iruka had stepped so far back he backed into a wall. The other boy used the opportunity and pinned Iruka against the wall. Iruka could feel his heart race again and his pulse quicken, his arms shaking a little. Time seemed to have slowed down.



"Now, now. Please don't be that way," Mizuki said as he reached behind and stroked Iruka's chestnut strands. The young boy gulped though as he started to tense up. His fists shook as he stared at Mizuki.



"I said out!" He screamed as his right fist soared to the other's left cheek. The blow was swift and hard as Mizuki lost his balance. Iruka used the opportunity as he turned and performed a successful low kick to his stomach, sending Mizuki down to his knees, wincing in pain. Iruka smiled confidently as he ran past him for the door. He wanted to get as far as from Mizuki as possible. That wouldn't happen. As soon as he tried to make a mad dash, Iruka felt something grab onto his ankle and caused him to trip and fall to the ground, hard. He struggled to get up, only to be turned around and stare back up at his attacker.



"Now, I asked nicely not to act this way, didn't I, Iruka?" Iruka gasped at the mention of his own name. "Seems that tumble did more than just to make you vulnerable," he said as he brushed off what was left of the concealer on Iruka's face, hiding his facial scar. "Didn't know you dressed in drag."



"I- I- I don't! It was just part of the deal! Now let me go!" Iruka shouted and struggled to get free. Yet, it was impossible. Mizuki just grinned as he straddled Iruka and smeared off his make-up.



"Oh, a deal? What deal was that now? You dress up like this for that club and what? Does Hatake get to play with you afterwards?" Mizuki sneered. "My, you've changed since the last time we hanged out." He forcefully slammed Iruka's wrists back to the ground. Mizuki just grinned and laughed as he brought the two together above Iruka's head and locked them together with one of his hands.



"Mizuki! Get off of m-!" A strong fist slammed into his face, shutting him up.



"I did say I wanted to get to know one another," he purred as his hand grazed the tanned boy's sore cheek. A confused look swept Iruka's face only to turn to horror as Mizuki moved his free hand and removed his belt and brought it up and tied Iruka's hands together to a nearby desk. The boy flinched as the belt constricted his wrists. "Aww, what? You don't like it?" Mizuki laughed. "You never did like to play games with me, did you, Iruka?"



"Mizuki! What the hell are you do-" Iruka was cut off as Mizuki undid one of the brunet's eccentric hair ties and shoved it into the helpless boy's mouth.



"There now. That's better. Best no one hears you scream," Mizuki giggled.



Iruka was muffled under the cloth invading his mouth. He trashed his head back and forth while he struggled to get his arms free. It was no use. The knots were too tight. Mizuki continued on, untying the obijime. Iruka became more aggressive by the minute, trying to free himself. Mizuki dove into his pocket and pulled out a knife and, with a simple flick, he sliced up the obi, leaving the victim to whine.



"I was thinking we could play a game. For old time's sake. What do you say?" Mizuki continued to laugh as his other hand reached down and rested upon the tanned boy's inner thigh. Iruka gasped once he felt it, his eyes widening, worried for what was going to happen next. He screamed as hard as he could, hoping someone would be able to hear him outside, but to no avail. Mizuki shifted his hand underneath the soft yukata and fell on Iruka's briefs. Iruka squeezed his eyes shut as a finger divulged underneath there as well. "What's wrong? Don't tell me you've never done anything like this before. No worries. You'll have fun. I'll make sure of that," he purred again, staring deep into Iruka's eyes, leaving the younger boy to cry out again while he pulled out a small, square, foil wrapper. Iruka let out one final cry, only for it to be muffled under the hair tie. At least in his mind, his cries rang out clear.



Somebody! Help me!



The door suddenly busted open and a bright light broke in. A dark shadow over cased the two boys on the ground. Both turned. Mizuki scoffed while Iruka looked on, his eyes wide with disbelief.



"Hatake-san, can't you see we're a little busy here?" Mizuki pointed out as he sat up. "So if you don't mind-" Kakashi refused to allow Mizuki to finish as he quickly walked toward the two and sent a kick roaring into Mizuki's face, sending him flying across the room and into a few desks.



"If you ever touch Iruka, try to lay a hand on Iruka, or even think of anything like this again, I won't hesitate to kill you," Kakashi stated, his words cold and subtle. He stooped down and brought his hand behind Iruka's, still frozen in shock. While undoing the belt on Iruka's wrists, his other hand removed the hair tie out of his mouth and tossed it aside. "Are you alright?" The silver haired boy calmly asked him as he brought him up to sit.



Iruka sat on his knees, his head down, hair covering his face, and started to shake, still in shock. He felt tears just freely roll down his face, smearing his make-up, and fall to the ground. His fists shook as well, grabbing tight to the loose yukata hanging off his body now. He moved his lips to talk but not a word came out. Kakashi moved his hand down to Iruka's back, trying to calm down the poor boy.



"Iru-" On instinct, Iruka just flew into Kakashi's arms. He was crying again, the tears refusing to stop. Kakashi sat back still, afraid to further comfort the boy. Yet, his personal feelings took over and he slowly brought his arms around Iruka, trying to soothe him. He continued to whisper in the tanned boy's ear, reassuring him everything will be ok now. The younger boy only responded by tightening his grip on the senior and cried harder. "Come on, Iruka," Kakashi whispered as he scooped up the boy in his arms, bridal style, and stood up. Iruka blushed slightly, but he just dug his head into Kakashi's chest and wrapped his arms around the silver haired boy's neck. He didn't care how childish or girlish he was acting now. He felt safe now, and that's what was most important. Kakashi smiled sincerely as he turned back to leave the room.



"Hmph!" Kakashi turned back at the sudden noise. "Once a crybaby, always a crybaby!" Mizuki shouted as he struggled to regain his posture. "Don't you think, Hatake?



Kakashi slightly turned, angled toward Mizuki, watching as the boy struggled to walk forward. "Come any closer and will report you and have you expelled."



"Please! Like I'm supposed to be afraid of you! You report me, then what? You think that wimp in your arms will say anything? And risk himself getting exposed as a drag queen?" Mizuki continued to boast. "He won't rat on me! Not after everything we've been through!"



"Then I guess I'll have to force you to transfer."



"Please!" Mizuki insisted. "A transfer? Like that's really threatening. I'll just take the train, bus, or whatever just to come back and say hello to my dear, old friend."



"That's true," Kakashi calmly stated as Iruka looked upon him concerned. "But then," he last said before he swiftly swept his leg up, striking Mizuki straight in his jaw. Iruka watched in shock as Mizuki was sent back, falling hard on the classroom floor, blood gushing from mouth and nose. "I can just beat you into a bloody pulp if I find you back around here." He glanced briefly at the brunet in his arms before looking back at the pitiful mess Mizuki had become. "If Iruka is ok, then nothing else matters to me." He slowly walked to the door and slammed it behind him, locking Mizuki in.



Iruka's eyes widened slightly as he started to tear again. He pressed his head on Kakashi's chest as he slowly closed his eyes. He wondered if Kakashi was really serious with his words. He wondered if this was just one of his mind games or another attempt to try to win his affections. But given what just happened, Iruka let it slide for now. He listened to the senior's heart beat, lulling himself to sleep.

---

"Ugh… This smell again…" Iruka slowly opened his eyes and awoken back in a familiar place.



"Nasty punch to your face there, eh Iruka?" Tsunade asked. Iruka slowly rose up from the infirmary bed and immediately clasped his cheek, sensing that it was slightly swollen and bandaged up. Iruka shook a little, remembering who punched him. In that instant, the boy's mind was flushed with memories after he recalled what happened beforehand.



"Ah! Tsunade-sama! Where's-"



"Kakashi-kun? After he brought you here and explained that you got into a fight with a fellow student, he decided to leave," she replied.



"A fight?" he asked. That is when he examined himself. He was back in casual clothing. There were no traces of make-up or of the yukata he was just wearing hours before, although his hair was a mess. Why am I? And a fight? I wasn't- but then how- I swear, if he did anything- if he… if he… Iruka's thoughts stopped as his heart sank a little.



"He said he wanted to give you some space to relax after what just happened." His heart sank deeper. Why… "I have others I have to check on. Will you be ok by yourself?" Iruka simply nodded. Tsunade grinned as she pocketed a bottle of sake and headed out the door. Liar!



Iruka sat up on the bed and started to think about the situation. Yesterday, he practically dug his claws into the boy. He resented him. He wished he never met him. One would say that he hated him. But then, not long ago, all he could think about was the boy saving him from Mizuki. Kakashi could have stayed if he wanted to. He did save him. And covered for him. And lied for him. And did say he cared for him, didn't he? The pale boy's words echoed in Iruka's head.



If Iruka is ok, then nothing else matters to me.



Iruka tilted his head back and stared at the ceiling. He said all that. And saved me while beating up Mizuki. That means he cares for me, right? Iruka started to grit his teeth. Why am I putting so much thought into this? I shouldn't be! This isn't me! Everything changed when I first saw him! All of this is his fault! I don't even like… I don't like…



Iruka stopped in mid thought and just stared blankly into the room. He brought his knees up to his chest and hugged them as he placed his head down to rest, hiding the blush across his face.



I swear if I see him again…

---

For the rest of the month in school, Iruka made it his goal, his mission, to find Kakashi. But there was one problem.



Kakashi was nowhere to be found.



Iruka looked all over the school yard. He joined Obito and the others up on the roof when lunch came by, hoping Kakashi would be around. Nothing. He even asked the group if they had seen Kakashi, but not even Rin could provide an answer. He even asked directions to Kakashi's house. He got them, but got too nervous to go and visit himself. He would check periodically in the meeting room to see if the boy was skipping class in there. Nope. Even his hideouts in the courtyard were empty. The days just seemed to drag on without seeing Kakashi. During class, all Iruka could do was think about him as he stared off outside. Izumo and Kotetsu took notice and asked if the boy was ok. Naturally, Iruka lied. He didn't like the idea of his friends worrying about him. He was too busy worrying over where Kakashi was ok or not.



Soon enough, classes were nearly done and summer vacation was about to start.



"Ok, guys? Sorry but today I have to dismiss class early," a disheveled Minato explained to the class as everyone else cheered. "I have some business I have to take care of. So have a good weekend everyone!" Iruka nearly slapped himself at that moment. Why haven't I asked Minato-sensei about Kakashi? He knows him, right? Iruka immediately packed up his things and started off after the teacher.



"Hey, Iruka," Izumo said, placing his hand on Iruka's shoulder. "Can we talk?"



"Oh, sorry Izumo. I can't," he hurried. "I have to-"



"Come on!" Kotetsu urged, pulling the teen out into the hallway.



"Kotetsu! What are you-"



"Listen, we've been watching you this past month," Kotetsu started, for once sounding serious. "And all you've been doing is stare blankly outside and barely talk with us or-"



"What Kotetsu is getting at is that we're worried about you, Iruka," Izumo continued. "We've seen the way you've been acting recently, and we are really worried about you."



"Eh?"



"Don't 'eh' us! What happened? You can tell us! What? Does this have anything to do with Hatake-senpai?" Kotetsu exclaimed. Iruka stood for a minute, blinking and stuttering.



"It-it-it's nothing," he shouted back. "Sorry, but I really have to go!" he shouted, turning around and made a full dash toward Minato's office.



"Oi! Iruka! Iruka!" Izumo called out back to him, but it only drove Iruka to take wider steps, getting further and further away from them. There was no way he was going to allow his friends to ruin this chance for him. He had to find out what happened to the senior by any means necessary. He was willing to anything to find out anything.

---

As he reached Minato's office, Iruka took some time to catch his breath. He didn't want to come off as being desperate. Yet, deep down, he really was. He hoped that Minato-sensei had the answer he had been looking for. Suddenly, the tanned boy paused and gasped. He tiptoed closer as he listened on to a conversation happening inside. He immediately recognized Minato-sensei's voice and quickly deduced the other voice inside.



Kakashi!



Iruka overheard Kakashi talking with Minato inside along with a third voice, sounding child-like. The boy peered inside, looking through the crack made by the door. Iruka smiled as he saw what Minato was holding. Or more like who. He immediately recognized the little boy from a photo that Minato carried with him always. Minato was the kind of guy to brag about his family, especially their troubles like when he had to babysit his son during his breaks while he was at work.



There was little Naruto, a kid no older than four, his face beaming with his bright smile, stretching out the whiskers on each cheek. The boy had wild blonde hair and bright blue eyes, much like his father. He watched on as the boy chewed away on the arm of his frog plushie, already worn out from much biting.



"You need to think about this really hard, Kakashi," Minato stated, keeping an eye on his child. iThink about what?/i



"Yeah, yeah. I know. You don't have to remind me."



"I think I have to. I've seen your grades and they're great! Near perfect, even though lately you've tend to skip your classes."



"So why do you need to worry?" He asked. "I can afford to miss a few."



"Kakashi…" At that moment, Minato's phone went off. He immediately put Naruto in Kakashi's care as he picked up the phone. Kakashi held Naruto an arm's length away, holding him more like an object then a baby. Iruka couldn't help but laugh a little under his breath.



"Crap, today is just not my day… That was Kushina. I need to go."



"I swear if I haven't seen a man whipped…" Kakashi muttered under his breath.



"I'll be right back. Can you take care of Naruto while I'm gone? It will only be for an hour, max!"



"Remember the last time you left me with him?" He reminded him while placing Naruto down. Minato cringed after remembering. He hated those two weeks spending it with Kakashi at his place while the kitchen had to be stripped down and remodeled. Kakashi could just not handle young kids.



"Sensei?" Iruka asked, poking in. "I can help look after Naruto." Kakashi glanced up at the sudden recognition of the voice. Both boys looked at each other. Kakashi's gaze quickly diverted away while Iruka glanced away, his eyes filled with despair. Minato took an instant notice of the two's confrontation and started to put the pieces together.



"It works out then. See you later, Sensei," Kakashi said, turning away and heading out. Iruka looked back, his eyes urging him to stay.



"Now, now, you know Naruto is a handful. You both should look after Naruto!" Minato offered. He figured this was the freshman he had heard rumors about with Kakashi.



"Wait! Sen-" Before Kakashi could finish his sentence, he was out the door. Iruka sauntered off to the middle of the room and stooped down and picked up Naruto. The boy took an immediate liking to the boy, laughing and giggling at all the attention he got from the freshman. For the longest time, the only noise in the room came from Naruto, laughing about while the boys refused to make eye contact.



"You know, if you want, you can still leave," Iruka started off. "If this is bugging you too much…" Why the hell am I saying this? Kakashi hesitated before responding.



"No, that's fine. If Minato comes back and I'm not here, I'll have hell to pay." Iruka smiled and chuckled a little. Kakashi continued to look away until Naruto's laughter became louder. He finally turned and blushed slightly. He had not seen anyone, besides Kushina, that was able to tame little Naruto. Normally, the boy was a little monster, a devilish fox if you will. He would always try to find ways to get things he wanted like playing games with Kakashi or anything else that made the silver haired teen suffer. But there they were. Naruto was actually behaving himself. And Iruka was smiling all the same. "You have a way with him, Iruka."



. At least now, he's started talking.



"Thank you, Kakashi," Iruka responded. "I've always liked being around little kids. You can say that's a reason why I want to be a teacher when I get older."



"Bet you would make a great sensei."



Iruka blushed slightly at the remark. "Th- Thank you… And you?"



"Hmm?"



"What do want to do with your life?" Iruka pondered, trying to keep the conversation going.



"I don't know yet."



"There has to be something you're interested in," Iruka continued.



"I'm interested in a lot of things,"



"Like?" Kakashi shrugged. "Kakashi, that's not an answer."



"It's not like it's any of your business."



"I'm just a little worried if you don't know what you want to be, that's all."



"I don't need you to be worried about me!" he lashed out.



"I can't help that I do!" the brunet retaliated. "I can't help worry over the guy who saved me from being raped!" Iruka blinked as he found himself being pulled along and pushed against the wall. His eyes lit up as a stern hand forced his head up, compelling him to look back at Kakashi face-to-face.



"All that happened was that you got lucky," Kakashi said, plain and simple. "If I wasn't walking around then, things would be different. So don't think because I saved you that now you owe me something or you can worry what happens to me." He paused for a minute before going on. "So don't expect me to save you the next time." Kakashi let go of his grip and without saying another word, let himself out of the room.



"Kakashi! Wait!" But it was too late. Iruka slumped back down on the ground on his knees.



Just like that, Iruka let Kakashi slip out of his fingers so easily.

---

"Hey… Iruka… You listening?" Kotetsu said, nearly yelling in the teen's ear. The three friends were out, enjoying their summer break, hanging out near the local mall. Although it had only been a couple of weeks since their break started, Iruka hadn't been the same since his last encounter with Kakashi. No matter what his friends did, nothing could get Iruka out of his slump. Not even a bowl of ramen could fill the emptiness in him. I really shouldn't be feeling like this… But why am I? If I ever see him again, I'm so going to- That is to say, if I ever see him again… Wonder if this is how he felt when I rejected him…



"Iruka!" The brunet sudden sprung his head up, dazed. "Do you even know what I said?" Kotetsu asked.



"Umm… Something about…"



"Ah ha! I knew it! You weren't paying attention at all, were you?" Kotetsu insisted. "You know this is important to me!"



"What is?"



"Ah! There you go again!" Kotetsu huffed as he turned away from his friend, donning a mean scowl.



"It's his birthday later this month, remember?" Izumo whispered into Iruka's ear. "On the 21st. Turning sixteen, too. Remember now?"



"Oh yeah! That's right! Sorry, Kotetsu," Iruka apologized, scratching the back of his head. Kotetsu's attitude completely changed after the apology. There was no way he could have stayed mad at Iruka for any reason.



"Like I was saying," Kotetsu started again, picking up where he left off. "Since my parents can't afford to have the party where I wanted it, and our place is too small to house many people, they decided it would be best if I could have it at the beach! They won't even be out with us! So we can go swim, play beach games, roast marshmallows, and more! Of course, that would mean requiring help from my two closest friends to help plan the party of a lifetime!"



"Alright, count me in, Kotetsu," Izumo laughed. He elbowed Iruka, making sure he was still paying attention. Iruka nodded in agreement when his cue was given. Maybe this party will help me take my mind off of things. More like off of someone though…



"First off, we need some food and drinks!" Kotetsu exclaimed.



"Well, how many people are you planning on inviting?" Izumo asked.



"Well, it will be us three, Anko, invited Hayate and his girlfriend."



"Girlfriend? You mean, Yuuago? It's official?" Iruka asked, slightly shocked. Kotetsu nodded. Iruka started to think to himself, thinking it was about time and two made it official. He glanced over at Izumo who was a little uneasy.



"Also decided to invite some of those seniors as well!" Kotetsu exclaimed.



"Really?" Iruka asked.



"Yeah! They were nice enough to invite us to the party they made for your birthday," Kotetsu grinned.



"So who's coming?"



"Kurenai for sure. I think her boyfriend was there too." The tanned teen sat still as he listened on, a little bit anxious to wonder who else Kotetsu invited. Was it possible he invited Kakashi as well? Maybe this was a second chance to try to talk with the senior. He shyly smiled to himself. "Iruka!" The teen's head sprung up again as he was caught off guard again.



"Sorry! Continue!"

---

That weekend, Kotetsu held his birthday party down at a local beach across town at night. Though, from the looks of it, it looked more to the naked eye like a party for the sake of partying. Yet, even the tanned boy had to admit it, it was a sight to see. The shadowy night sky was illuminated by countless stars and a bright, blue moon. Below, numerous people partied the night away. It even seemed some just came because they saw there was a party. Many were dancing to the beat of music from an old boom box Kotetsu brought over. Others were cooking or eating food from the giant bonfire in the middle of the sand. And a few just sat down and felt the sand scratch their skin as they took in the view of the place. That's what at least Iruka was doing. He wasn't one much for crowds. Sporting only a white tank top and pine green cargo shorts, the brunet was facing the water, allowing the tide to come in and brush against his bare feet. He always felt most calm when he was in water. Guess 'Iruka' really did suit the boy. He took the time to clear his mind, to try and forget things from the past and start anew. No matter what had happened, time would still go on. It would not stop. It would just have to be another obstacle the boy would encounter and get over. But no matter how calm the water was or how still the air was, his mind wouldn't wander far from images and thoughts of a certain silver haired annoyance.



"Hey! Iruka!" Kotetsu shouted from behind. Iruka quickly turned around. "Can you go and bring some more drinks for everyone? They should be over near the dock!"



He was more than happy to oblige. Iruka hurried across the sand and weaved in and out through the immense crowd of people. He knew Kotetsu didn't know this many people. Iruka wondered if he could even find anyone he knew if he tried. He arrived a few yards away, back to the place where the trio originally had designated as the place to store everything. He reached for one of the coolers, opened it up and grabbed a soda for himself as he closed the lid back down and sat upon the cooler. Iruka doubted if the people really cared about drinks about now. The atmosphere was just too uplifting to care.



Suddenly, something caught the corner of his eye and he immediately turned around and ran into a familiar face.



"Oh! Rin!" Iruka exclaimed as he greeted her with a hug. It seemed like forever since the two saw each other. "Did you come here with anyone?"



"I did come by with Obito," she stated as Iruka shot a quick, sly glare at her. "But not like that if that's you're thinking!" she insisted. "But now, it seems that I can't find him within this crowd," she laughed. Iruka laughed along with her, covering up his own disappointment with no mention of another senior. He sighed as he opened his can.



"No, I didn't see Kakashi come by," Rin stated as if reading the teen's mind. Iruka jumped at the comment, spitting out quite a bit of his drink.



"W-Why would I care if he's around?" Iruka stuttered, sipping his soda. Rin didn't say a word; instead, she tried to conceal a slight giggle.



"Well, if you do, can you please call me? It's just I'm worried about him! That's all!" Iruka agreed, and Rin thanked him before she left among the crowd. Now even Rin is worried about him… Great… Iruka moaned as he downed the last bit of his soda, crushed the can in his hand, and slammed it down into the sand. Yet, feeling guilty, he picked it back up and placed it inside a nearby garbage can.



Iruka continued to roam around the party, talking with other people and making new friends. Though, deep down, even though he hoped Rin was wrong, it seemed that she wasn't when it came to Kakashi's whereabouts. The boy would stick out like a sore thumb with that silver hair of his. To get his mind off of it, Iruka decided to at least clean up some of the mess the party goers were making. He collected cans and glasses and other pieces of garbage as he stuffed them in a large, black bag. As he made his way back to the garbage can to dump it, he stared off at the rest of the beach, seemingly dark and empty compared to the party happening behind him.



For a split second, a sweep of white was spotted on a deck in the distance. The tanned boy squinted to get a better look. He immediately recognized it. He turned to check briefly on the party. Seeing how festive everyone was, they wouldn't notice one guest missing.



He hurried on the sand to the dock. He was right.



"Kakashi!" Iruka shouted as the older teen spun around. There he was, his hair still as wild, skin still pale. A tight, white undershirt accentuated his muscles underneath as he wore a loose, tan over shirt. Even his black jeans were rolled up from the bottom, exposing his bare feet. "What are you doing here?"



"I-I'm sorry," Kakashi started, surprisingly sounding upbeat. "A friend heard of this party and took me-" He didn't explain much further as Iruka started to laugh.



"You know you have to start coming up with better lies," Iruka said. "I can easily read right through you... What are you doing here?" Kakashi sighed as he ran his fingers through his hair.



"I live not too far from here. I noticed the noise and decided to come by, help clear my head of a few things." Iruka wanted to laugh when he heard Kakashi came to the party for the same reason he decided to help with the party. Really, a part of the senior was rubbing off on him. "But I've done that so I'll guess I'll take my leave," Kakashi said, brushing past Iruka to the side. Immediately, his tone changed, not one of anger as before, but it sounded more depressed and longing. Back to how it was during their last encounter. This was his second chance, a chance he feared he wouldn't get. He wasn't going to let it go that easily.



"You've been spying on me… haven't you?" The pale teen stopped dead in his tracks. "The reason why you were there when you saved me from Mizuki, what Minato-sensei was talking to you about, and now… And the reason why I couldn't find you was that you didn't want to be found. Because of what I said… right? Even after what I said, you couldn't stand not seeing me, could you?"



Kakashi took a moment to compose himself but could only mutter out a goodbye before he presumed his walk.



"Kakashi!" he shouted as he headed toward Kakashi. Kakashi turned and stumbled back a little. This time, Iruka immediately grabbed a hold of his shirt, reached and ripped down the senior's mask, and smashed his lips against his. Kakashi's eyes opened wide in total shock. He could not believe that this time, it was Iruka kissing him. The kiss was sweet and short, but as much he wanted it with his arms itching to hold Iruka and never let go, Iruka slowly pulled away.



"Iruka…" Kakashi pleaded.



"I can't thank you now?" Iruka asked, surprising the senior. "I don't think I've thanked you for saving me earlier this month. With Mizuki and all. But that's all you ever have done to me. All you've done was help me…" he said, his hands shaking and heart racing. "The bike crash, the umbrella, the training, my present, the festival, the whole Mizuki thing, all the kisses, and everything else!" he exclaimed. Kakashi heard Iruka's voice start to crack. Iruka gulped before going on.



"So thank you… and… and I'm sorry for everything I did to you. For hitting you and rejecting you… I'm sorry, alright?" Tears dripped on both of their hands. "You didn't deserve it… Please, forgive me… Just that… no one… and I… umm… got scared… and… just… just…" The pale boy just looked at the other, a complete mess.



"Iruka," Kakashi said smoothly. "Are you alright?"



"Damn it, Kakashi!" Iruka shouted. "Do I look fine to you? How stupid can you be! Do I have to put it in plain English to you?" Iruka continued to try to fight back the tears as he took one of Kakashi's hands into his own and placed it over his chest. Kakashi slightly jumped at the feeling of Iruka's heart beating so fast, so hard; it felt like it was going to burst out. "See? I'm not alright! Because… every time you're around me… I feel… I… I-"



Finally, Kakashi saw everything clearly.



Kakashi shut Iruka up by kissing him back, wiping away his tears. This kiss was different. This time, both of them wanted it. Kakashi pressed on, deepening the kiss. Iruka jumped a little after feeling Kakashi's tongue graze his lips, begging for entrance, but slowly opened his mouth for full access. Their tongues lashed together as the kiss became more heated. Kakashi moved his arms along Iruka's side, slowly wrapping around his thin waist. Iruka, on the other hand, enveloped his arms around the senior's neck and tangled his fingers within his wild mane. Again, they ended the kiss, out of air and panting. Both looked at each other now, their bodies close together, their eyes only for the other. The moon illuminated Kakashi's hair, turning it almost into a pure white color. His skin seemingly glowed a powder blue as well. As for Iruka, his eyes didn't shine brown but a sparkling grey while his skin faintly radiated a dull gold from the bonfire far away.



"Please don't tell me I'm dreaming, Iruka," Kakashi said, slightly giggling under his breath.



"Idiot! That isn't something you say after-" Kakashi stopped Iruka again with a chaste kiss.



"Just checking to see if that temper of yours is still there. That attitude of yours is one reason why I love you." Iruka gasped at the mention of those three words.



"How… how can you say that so easily?" he demanded softly. Kakashi just couldn't help but laugh.



"After all that you just said and did before, you can't say it back to me now?" Kakashi pondered.



"I- I- I-"



"It's easy to say it when you're in love. Yet, it's harder to say when you admit it to who you love."



"Kakashi…" Iruka spoke softly. All Kakashi could do was kiss the poor brunet's forehead as he took Iruka's hands, seemingly calming him down. Iruka just allowed it. He was there. With him. He could feel him. He wasn't just a thought in his mind. "Then, can you promise me something?"



"Hmm?" The young boy took a few minutes before responding.



"Just… promise me you'll start attending your classes and stop stalking me," the brunet said, starting to tear again. "Only then… will I go out with you."



The pale teen could only laugh. "I promise," Kakashi smiled, kissing away Iruka's tears.



Both boys couldn't be happier as they stayed with each other, both basking on the beach next to the dock, gazing to waters, away from the party, the tide brushing against their feet.



A/N: There! It finally happened! They're together! But what is it like dating the most popular senior in school? Find out next month!



And now that they are together, I think now would be best to do little one-shots in this universe to have a deeper perspective of their relationship along with their friends.



And remember, please continue to read and review!~ It's what fuels the fanfic!~ I love it how many people already love this fic!~