Disclaimer: I don't own Naruto or its characters and I make no profit.
AN: I don't know if I have to warn you of the sexual explicit content or not? But I've warned you anyway.
Chapter Four
**Day Four**
Sasuke sat at his desk, reviewing all the statements that they had collected over the last two days. Nothing was popping out at him, lending him any clues to further the investigation. It also didn’t help that his mind was on a certain blonde haired, blued eyed dobe. He had been true to his word to stay away from Naruto for the simple fact that Naruto hadn’t shown his face since yesterday. Sasuke knew that both of them had left early this morning for the funeral of the late Senator. As federal officers they were required to be in attendance. He had watched on TV as the horse-drawn caisson made its way down the packed streets of the capital, people lamenting their sorrow at every turn. It was big news even for this small town.
“When do they get back?” Sasuke asked his voice reverberating through the silent room. Every eye turned to stare at him, some covert some flat out obvious; but Sasuke didn’t care.
“Later tonight.” Kakashi replied, putting down his file and crossing his arms. “Something was definitely off about the Mayor yesterday.”
“You think Gato is involved with the murder?” Sasuke leaned back in his chair and stretched resting his arms behind his head.
“Not directly and his alibi holds up.”
“Do you think he knows something about it, then?”
“I’m not sure. There’s just something off about him.”
“Yeah, that he’s crooked.” Sasuke stated.
“You have no proof of that, Sasuke.” Kakashi sighed.
“I need no proof. Everyone knows it; why do you think we got stuck with him after he was dismissed from office in Konohagakure.”
“That is conjecture…”
“That is fact, Naruto even admitted it.”
“Don’t cause any more trouble, Sasuke. If you go against the Mayor your career will not survive. And Gato holds more influence than Shikamaru does.” He whispered.
“I have no intention of going after him, yet. You know more than anyone that my family name is more important than that slime.”
“Just be careful where you tread, Sasuke.”
“Hn.”
“Hey, Kakashi?” Kiba asked quietly, interrupting their conversation.
“Hmm?” Kakashi asked, swiveling his chair around to face Kiba.
“You know a little about these databases, right?”
“Yes, I worked with them when I was in Konohagakure.”
“Can you tell me why someone’s file would be sealed then?” Kiba asked. Akamaru whimpered at his knee, scratching to be left out. Ino knelt down and rubbed at his ears, before directing him to the door and letting him roam free. He would find his way back when he was done.
“It depends; who are you looking up?”
“Well, I just wanted to get used to it, so I looked up Shikamaru first. His file came up no problem and his jacket is amazing. So I thought; if his was that good then Naruto’s would mimic that since they are partners, right, but it came up ‘Authorization Required’. I was just curious as to why?”
“That is a good a question.” Kakashi replied thoughtfully. Something started to stir in his memory, but he lost it before it could become cohesive. “There can be many reasons for a sealed file. His name could be part of an ongoing investigation, which seems unlikely here. He wouldn’t be here if it was. Records that involve trade or state secrets, witness protection; again, unlikely; juvenile criminal records, closed adoption...to name a few.”
“State secrets? Witness protection? Adoption?”
“We can’t know for sure and we can’t ask. If it is anything like that than Naruto will be unable to speak about it even if he wanted to.”
“He doesn’t give off the impression of being secretive.” Ino stated, leaning forward to read the contents of the monitor.
“Ok, so maybe its adoption. I mean his birth certificate isn’t even accessible.”
Kakashis eyes narrowed in suspicion as the pieces started falling into place. He turned to stare at the doorway just as Tsunade and Shikamaru walked in, still dressed for the funeral. Noticeably absent was a mop of blonde hair and it only solidified what Kakashi believed. Why hadn’t he seen it before! He knew Naruto looked familiar to him! If this was true!
“Kakashi?” Tsunade questioned. She was looking at him in concern as he seemed not to have heard her.
“Hmm.” Kakashi asked, narrowing his eyes on his Chief.
“I asked how the day went.”
“Fine and without incident.”
Tsunade nodded, satisfied, and strode toward her office. She had just turned on her desk lamp when Kakashi shut the door behind him with an audible snap. Tsunade looked up at him, a bit perplexed.
“Who is he?” Kakashi asked before she could utter a word.
“Who?” Tsunade asked, trying to brush it off. Of course she knew who Kakashi was referring too, she had been expecting this.
“Don’t give me that bureaucratic bullshit Tsunade.” Kakashi stated. “You know exactly who I am talking about! Is he his son?! Is he his grandson?!”
“Yes.” Tsunade stated, taking a seat behind her desk. There was no way that she could deny it and she truly believed that Kakashi deserved to know. It was just her stupid promise to her Sensei that prevented her from telling him from the beginning.
“What the hell is he doing here then?!” Kakashi asked with incredulity.
“He is staying out of the spot-light.”
“Is it wise for him to be here? Isn’t this jeopardizing the investigation?!”
“Hardly; how can he be? No, it is better that he is here under our watchful gaze.”
“Why would you keep something like this from me?” Kakashi demanded.
“As much as I hate to admit it, you didn’t need to know...” She lied.
“The hell I didn’t, Tsunade. I should have been told!”
“Calm down, Kakashi.” Tsunade murmured, leaning back in her chair.
“I am calm...!” Kakashi was interrupted by a series of knocks on the door. He turned to see Shikamaru enter without permission and shut the door behind him, much like he had shortly ago.
“It was on a need to know basis. It was not intended to be disrespectful towards you in any way, but only to ensure Naruto’s safety. Chief Sarutobi couldn’t be sure why Jiraiya was murdered or if they were going to go after Naruto as the next Senator. It is only for his safety that we are even permitted to be here and the less people that knew, that know, the better.”
“I should have been told so I knew what I was getting myself into. You shouldn’t have kept it from me, Tsunade.”
“That may be, but you know now. What are you going to do?” Shikamaru asked.
Kakashi sighed and marched from the office, causing everyone to take a step back; even Temari. They had never seen him be so exasperated before and certainly never at the Chief. He was always so calm and collected, bordering on the detached at times. They were left wondering what set him off as Shikamaru walked out of the office and towards his borrowed desk. The only thing they knew was that it involved Naruto
Uzumaki and no one knew if that was a good thing.
~CALM~
Shikamaru was lost in thought as he sat down, not even noticing Sasuke sitting across from him. “We heard back from the apartment superintendent and all occupants have been notified. As of yet, we have no one stepping forward with missing possessions. We also interviewed the cabbie that picked Senator Jiraiya up at Konohagakure International today. He owns his own cab; that was why we couldn’t find him. After seeing the news he came forward immediately, but it wasn’t of much help. Senator Jiraiya hailed the cab at the airport, just like the video showed, and given an extra $50 on top of the fare if he would drive the Senator to that building. He agreed and dropped him off at 7:46 a.m. Less than 15 minutes later he was dead.” Sasuke stated.
“So it confirms for us that he went there to meet someone, but we still don’t know who because they used a disposable phone and we have no way to trace it. Did the cabbie say anything about how Jiraiya was acting?”
“He said that he seemed anxious, but didn’t speak a word the entire time except for the standard greetings. He did say that the Senator was fiddling with a necklace...”
“Did he describe what that necklace looked like?” Shikamaru asked in sudden earnest.
“Green; that was all he could see of it through his rearview mirror.” Sasuke stated. His brow knit in confusion as Shikamaru dug through the files, looking for the CSI’s evidence log. He scanned the page, looking for something unknown to the Uchiha.
“It’s not here! How the hell did I miss something like that?”
“What?” Sasuke asked; a bit irritated at being left out of the loop.
“That necklace; I know that necklace. It wasn’t found on his body, but if the cabbie says he was wearing it, what happened to it?”
“You’re thinking whoever shot him took the necklace?” Sasuke asked, leaning forward in his chair.
“Yes…possibly. You don’t know this, but Jiraiya is known for wearing it in Konohagakure. It’s become something of a signature for him; and I can’t believe that I missed something vital like this. That necklace is extremely valuable; so-much-so that it could buy a small country with it.”
“So, we see if it has been pawned.” Sasuke stated, unaffected by the idea of the jewelry’s wealth. Shikamaru had to begrudge him respect on that. Money always got people’s attention.
“Exactly.” Shikamaru affirmed. Sasuke nodded and grabbed at the phone on his desk. He made a few quick calls to the three pawnshops in town while Shikamaru put an alert through Konohagakure to be on the lookout for it. “Now we just wait.”
“Yes, but are we certain that it could be the murderer that took it? There are so many people in and out of a crime scene; it could have been anyone, especially if they knew of its value.”
“There is one other place that I need to check about and we should ask the security guard if he recognizes it; to see if it was one Jiraiya at the time of his passing. Also, when the two witnesses are in better health we can ask them.” Shikamaru muttered, stretching out in the chair and yawning. “I hope it wasn’t taken to buy their next hit or we may never find it?”
“Hn.”
“You had an early morning, get some sleep.” Tsunade demanded emerging from her office. She brushed passed them on her way out, her keys jingling in her grasp. Shikamaru didn’t need to be told twice and stood up eager to release the tension of the day.
~CALM~
Naruto stared out the window of his room, watching the people splash around in the pool down below. He was feeling completely numb and lethargic. He didn’t want to do anything, but curl up into a hole and sleep. He turned as the door opened to see Shikamaru staring at him with sad rimmed eyes. Naruto smiled reassuringly and for once he actually felt it. He felt better than he had in days.
“I have a question for you?” He started slowly, dropping the room key on a nearby dresser and pulling at his tie.
“Hmm?” Naruto hummed, indicating that he was listening though his attention was still on the people splashing around good naturedly.
“Do you have Jiraiya’s necklace?”
Naruto halted and turned to stare wide-eyed at his friend. “No.” He stated, taking a seat on the end of the bed.
“Was it in the house?”
“No, he was wearing it that day.” Naruto whispered guiltily.
“You knew it was missing, didn’t you?” Shikamaru accused. Naruto nodded, biting at his lower lip.
“I already have Asuma checking the pawn shops, it hasn’t turned up yet.”
“Why didn’t you say anything?” His voice was accusing as he came to stand in front of the blonde.
“I don’t know.” Naruto whispered truthfully. “I guess I was angry that it wasn’t with his personal effects. I guess I lost my mind temporarily... You know, maybe you’re right, Shika. Maybe I shouldn’t be here? I’m too close to this, so the sooner I take up being a Senator the better, right?”
“Naru...no, you have every right to be here. We have every right to be here. This is where you’re needed the most; and being Senator can wait. I’m certain they can get on without you for a bit longer.”
Naruto laughed softly. “You think?”
“Yeah.” Shikamaru smiled. “And don’t forget that you have unfinished business.”
“Yeah, my unfinished business…There won’t be enough time for me to clear it up. I can only put off being a Senator for a short time and I can’t take the risk that it will be handed off to someone unfit for the job.”
“I will finish it for you then. You have my word, Naru.”
“I can’t ask you to do that…”
“So don’t ask.” Naruto stared at his friend silent as his emotions stormed within. He really wanted to be the one to finish it, but it was practically impossible. So why shouldn’t he let Shikamaru. Maybe a fresh pair of eyes was exactly what he needed.
“Thank you, Shika...” Naruto whispered. “You know that I would have told you about the necklace, eventually, right. Maybe, I was just hoping it would come with good news.”
“We’ll find it and return it to you, where it rightfully belongs.” Shikamaru assured, running his fingers along Naruto’s collar bone.
“Yeah.” Naruto whispered in agreement. “I’m going to take a shower, care to join me?
“Not tonight, Naru.” He sighed and withdrew his fingers. Naruto exhaled and moved towards the bathroom, pausing when he reached the door. “Is there a problem if I have tomorrow off?”
“No, there shouldn’t be. Why?”
“I’ll be no use to you and truthfully, I can use the rest.”
“If that is how you feel, then absolutely, stay here. Chief Tsunade should understand considering.”
“Thanks Shika. Oh, and be careful tomorrow. I have this uneasy feeling about you.” He muttered, stepping into the bathroom and closing the door. Shikamaru nodded, taking the suggestion seriously.
~CALM~
**Day Five**
Shikamaru stepped inside Tsunade’s office the next day, informing her that Naruto needed today off to collect himself, but that he would be back in full force tomorrow. She nodded in understanding and waved him off as Kakashi walked in, orange book in hand. Shikamaru gave them privacy as he made his way over to the Uchiha’s desk.
“Are you off the case?” Tsunade asked, staring at the ever present book that had been absent over the last few days.
Kakashi lowered said book, studying his Chief silently. “No, but I should have been told so I could have been on the lookout.”
“It was Sarutobi Sensei’s request. I didn’t even know that he was sending Naruto until he showed up here.”
“I could understand that, but I thought that you trusted me enough with your confidences?”
“It isn’t a matter of trust, Kakashi. I do trust you and I wanted to tell you, but I couldn’t; I couldn’t risk it. It still isn’t clear if Naruto is being targeted or not......You should know that he is accepting the position. Very soon he will be Senator.”
“He will be extraordinary.” Kakashi agreed.
“True. If he has just an ounce of his mother and father’s talent he will be exceptional. Jiraiya told me that Naruto was already emulating his parents, so I don’t think we have to worry too much about it.”
“And Chief Sarutobi feels the same way?”
“Hmm, yes, he has complete faith in Naruto...we all do.” Silence filled the room with that statement, the only sound coming from Kakashi as he flipped the pages of his book. With a sigh, Tsunade continued. “I wanted to tell you, Kakashi; but it was Sarutobi Sensei. You know when he asks for something it is always in the best interest to comply.”
“I understand the reasoning behind it, but if Naruto was to be under our protection...”
“I argued with him until we finally decided that if you figured it out that I wouldn’t deny it; other than that...” Tsunade stopped in her monologue as the phone on her desk rang out. Sighing she picked up the receiver and sat down at her desk. She nodded to Kakashi who turned and left without another word.
~CALM~
“Where is Naruto?” Kakashi asked, taking a seat at his desk.
“He wasn’t feeling well today, but he’ll be back tomorrow.” Shikamaru stated, trying his best to ignore the dark haired man eyeing him.
“And what do we have for today?”
“I want to talk with the security guard. We didn’t know to ask, but I want to know if he recognizes the necklace. I have a picture of it here.” Shikamaru murmured, laying the paper down on the table. “This is from the insurance claim.”
“Why don’t you and Sasuke go?” Kakashi ordered, settling back and flipping open his orange book once again.
“Hn.” Sasuke growled.
“I’ll drive, Uchiha.” Shikamaru drawled, not liking one bit that he had to be partnered with someone like Sasuke. Just because they worked cohesively last night did not mean that he was any closer to forgiving him.
“Hn.”
Kakashi watched them go and when they were out of sight he snapped his book shut and placed it gingerly in his locked drawer. He strolled out of the station and to the hotel that their guests were using for the time being, taking in the fresh air and the dark clouds over head. He wished that it would rain already; the darkening clouds really were quite depressing. Stepping inside and down the hallway, he knocked on the proper door. He stood there waiting patiently for Naruto to answer and smiled when it opened upon the blonde detective.
“May I come in?” He asked jovially, his lips smiling behind his grey turtleneck.
“Of course.” Naruto pushed the door open further and ushered him inside. “What brings you here?”
“I should be asking you that instead, Naruto
Namikaze.” Kakashi smiled.
Naruto stiffened turning to stare at the man in the middle of the room wearily. “How…?”
“Kiba was fiddling around with that computer you brought. He searched your name and all your records turned up sealed; even your birth certificate. There is a handful of reasons to seal someone’s file, couple that with the fact that you looked familiar to me......You don’t want anyone to know that your last name is Namikaze, so you sealed your records.” Kakashi accused.
“You’re wrong.” Naruto stated flatly, normally shimmering blue eyes turning darker.
“Am I now?” Kakashi stated. He sat down on the end of the bed, staring at the young detective in earnest. “Please, tell me where I’m wrong then?”
“You don’t want me here, do you?” Naruto asked suddenly, crossing his arms and taking a hard stance.
“That wasn’t the question that I asked.” Kakashi replied offhandedly.
“I’m not obligated to tell you anything. If you want me gone, say it and get out.” Naruto growled.
“You’re a lot like your mother, Kushina.” Kakashi laughed, his mismatched eyes rippling with emotion.
“Is there a reason for you being here?!” He demanded, his heart clenching painfully at the mention of his mother.
“I want to know why you are here, Naruto.”
“I was told to be here by Chief Sarutobi.”
“Is that the only reason?”
“If you want me gone...”
“Is that the only reason?” Kakashi ground out.
“NO!”
“Then why are you here?”
“Because I owe it to my grandfather to find the person that murdered him! Why else would I be here?”
“You tell me?” Kakashi asked.
“I don’t know what you want from me?” He cried out in exasperation, blue eyes dancing with emotion.
“I want to know why you are here.” Kakashi stated slowly, enunciating every word. “Don’t tell me you don’t know what I’m asking.”
Naruto sagged against the door, rubbing at his forehead in sudden understanding. “I just needed a day. One day to get my emotions in check, so I can get back to finding the person that murdered my grandfather! Just one day.”
“Good.” Kakashi stated and stood up. “Oh, how was I wrong?”
“Jiraiya sealed my records the day he arrived to take me to live with him. He also changed my last name to my mother’s maiden name, giving me a bit of anonymity. It hasn’t been easy keeping me out of the public eye, but he managed it and I’m grateful for all that he did for me.”
“Hmm, I’ll see you tomorrow then.” Kakashi smiled. Naruto stared in slight confusion as Kakashi walked passed him and opened the door. “By the way, you won the bet about Sakura.”
Naruto smiled slightly at the news before sighing and shut the door behind the lieutenant’s retreating back. He took a step towards his bed and about faced. He grabbed his keys and exited the room, making his way outside, intent on a long walk instead. Just one day and he would be back and better than ever!
~CALM~
Shikamaru stared at the decrepit building as he pulled towards the curb, following the directions Sasuke had given him to the apartment building. It was shocking to see in person the place that someone he highly respected had been murdered in. Jiraiya had deserved so much better than to be shot and left for dead in such a filthy place.
“It looks like Mizuki is on duty.” Sasuke stated pointing to the man in the lobby.
“Let’s see if he recognizes the necklace then.”
Sasuke nodded and followed Shikamaru inside allowing the door to close behind him completely. Mizuki glanced up when he heard the door close shooting a glare at them as they made their way to the counter.
“I told you everything I knew the other day.” He glowered.
“We had a bit of evidence come to light and just want to know if you recognize it.” Shikamaru replied.
“What is it?” Mizuki demanded, crossing his arms and leaning into the chair that he was sitting on. He took his eyes off the monitors and barely glanced at the picture presented to him by Sasuke.
“Does this look familiar to you?”
“I haven’t seen it before.” He stated, all but shoving the picture back at them. “If that is all, I have a job to perform and you’re interfering with that.”
“Are you sure? Take another look!” Sasuke growled, anger rising at the brusque attitude.
“I haven’t seen it! Now get out so I can do my job!” Mizuki snarled, not even looking at the picture.
“Why you...!”
“Thank you for your time.” Shikamaru drawled and tugged the Uchiha by the arm, Sasuke biting his tongue.
“What an ass.” He growled once they were outside brushing Shikamaru’s restraining hand away.
“Then it looks like you’re in good company.” He bit.
“Hn.” Sasuke couldn’t argue with that; he knew he was an ass...all Uchiha’s usually were and it was something that he took pride in.
Shikamaru slid inside Naruto’s truck and buckled up, watching Sasuke do the same. He turned over the engine and pulled away from the curb, making his way through the noon traffic, oblivious to the stares the orange truck was receiving.
“Do you want lunch?” Sasuke grumbled out. Shikamaru shot him a weary glance before nodding his agreement and pulling into the parking lot of ‘Choji’s Grill’. They took a seat at the packed bar and ordered their meal, sitting in awkward silence for their food.
“He barely looked at the picture.” Sasuke started, taking a sip of his tomato juice.
“…”
He sighed over his plate as the food was set in front of him, steaming hot and smelling wonderfully delicious. He pulled his fork from the folded napkin and took a bite, savoring the taste on his tongue.
“Did you have something you wanted to talk about?” Shikamaru finally asked turning to stare at the Uchiha.
“Hn. He barely looked…”
“Not about that.”
“Hn.” Shikamaru rolled his eyes at the response and took a sip of his drink. Sasuke sighed shocked at how perceptive Nara was. “About the other day...” The Uchiha started.
“Hmm.”
“I…I want to say that I regret my hasty words…”
“Shouldn’t you be saying this to Naruto?”
“You won’t let me talk to him!” Sasuke snapped.
“That is correct.” Shikamaru asserted.
“Whatever.” He snorted taking another sip of his drink.
“You need to apologize to him and not to me.”
Sasuke narrowed his eyes, staring at his reflection in the mirror behind the bar. Could he really bring himself to apologize; something Uchiha’s never did? He didn’t really need to think about, there was only one answer. “If given the chance.” He finally conceded.
“I will think about it, then.” Shikamaru agreed. They dug into the remaining remnants of their hearty meal savoring every bit of Choji’s delicious food. “This is good, but Naruto could give him a run for his money.” Shikamaru laughed, completely forgetting to be angry at his borrowed partner.
“The dobe can cook?” Sasuke asked incredulous, biting into his juicy cheeseburger.
“Forget about it. You will never get a chance to try his cooking.”
“You seem assured of that?”
“I’ll make certain that you never do.”
“Hn.”
~CALM~
Ten minutes later, with their stomach’s full; Sasuke and Shikamaru finally decided to get back to work. Shikamaru stood up and took a step away from the bar and towards the door. He wasn’t sure what had happened and he wasn’t sure that he really wanted to know. All he knew was that he suddenly found himself flat on his back moments later, facing the ceiling with his ankle wrapped awkwardly and painfully around the rung of his stool. Sasuke was kneeling beside him in an instant, surprisingly showing concern.
“Are you ok?” He asked.
Shikamaru took a moment to gain his bearings before nodding in answer and trying to sit up. Pain flashed through his ankle at the slightest movement causing him to wince and groan. He was certain that he had broken it.
“Can you stand?” Sasuke asked, reaching out his arm to haul him from the floor. He accepted the outstretched hand, allowing himself to be dragged on to his good foot. Shikamaru leaned against the counter breathing to control the racing pain in his ankle. Choji came bustling around the counter, concern marring his chubby face. Shikamaru waved him off assuring the man that he would be fine, that he shouldn’t worry.
“I think its broke.” He gasped out when Choji retreated far enough away. Sasuke nodded and supported him through the restaurant, stares following them out the door.
It was only a short drive to the hospital from Choji’s made longer by the minor argument over whom was going to drive. Sasuke finally won and snatched the keys from Shikamaru’s death clutch. “Drive carefully, this is Naruto’s baby. Don’t give him any more reason to be angry with you.”
“I’ll take good care of it.” Sasuke assured, helping Shikamaru climb up into the orange monstrosity.
Once they reached the hospital, Shikamaru was wheeled back to the emergency room grumbling about how ‘troublesome’ it all was, leaving Sasuke to settle down and wait. Two hours after the fact, Shikamaru reappeared sporting a green cast and gliding along on crutches looking miserable. Sasuke tried to hide the snicker, his lips curving northward.
“Broken.” He muttered as they made their way out of the hospital.
“Chief Tsunade will not be happy about this.” Sasuke stated, staring at the cast with disdain.
“I’m not happy about it either, Uchiha.”
“Well, where do you want to go first, the hotel or the precinct?”
“Let’s go to the precinct and get this over with.” He grimaced.
“Hey.” Shikamaru muttered gaining Sasuke’s attention once he was seated behind the wheel.
“Yeah?”
“Thank you.”
“You’re welcome.” Sasuke muttered and turned over the ignition.
~CALM~
To say that Tsunade was angry was an understatement. She was downright livid as she stared at her two detectives. A vein was popping at her forehead as she struggled to keep herself calm.
“What the hell happened?” She demanded.
“That is a great question and one I cannot answer.” Shikamaru drawled.
“His foot got hung up on those death trap seats at Choji’s.” Sasuke supplied.
Tsunade sighed and rubbed at her temple’s trying to quell her raging migraine. “It can’t be helped.” She groaned out. “Fine, I have no choice. Shikamaru, you’ll have to work from a desk or go home.”
“I’ll stay.”
“Sasuke, you and Naruto will partner up from now on; but I’m warning you. Any outbursts like the one the other day and you are off the case and suspended, do I make myself clear?”
“Yes.” Sasuke ground out. He didn’t want to be reminded about his little outburst or how much he hurt the dobe.
“Get back to work then!” She snapped at the gawking detectives. She slammed her door shut behind her and dropped in the seat at her desk, staring at the application waiting for approval.
Shikamaru hobbled his way over to a chair and sat down. He sighed in relief, staring at the ceiling before turning a glare on Sasuke, who took a seat across from him.
“It seems I have no choice but to let you work with Naruto, now. I’m giving you one more chance only because I have too. So don’t blow it.”
“I won’t.”
“See that you don’t because cast or not I will eviscerate you.”
“Hn.”
“Since you’ll be working closely with Naruto, there is something that you should know. All you have to do is be nice to him and you’ll get along quite fine; but apologize first and mean it. Trust me, Naruto will know if you’re not being sincere. Apologize and he will forgive you. Oh, and you should know one more thing about him. If he ever says that he has a gut feeling, about anything, trust it. It will never steer you wrong. It sounds strange, but just trust in it.”
Sasuke nodded in understanding, taking it all in. He sat back in his chair and pulled Mizuki’s file towards him to update the information to include the missing necklace. Inwardly he was jumping for joy at the second chance with his blonde dobe. This time he wouldn’t let him get away.
~CALM~
“I think I’m going to call it a night.” Sasuke stated a few hours later. “Would you like me to drop you off on my way?”
“I would appreciate that, thanks.” Shikamaru grimaced as he stood up and stretched. He pulled the crutches to him and made his way over to the elevator.
As soon as he was safely ensconced in his hotel room he collapsed on the bed. The first thing that he had noticed was that Naruto wasn’t there. Again, he wasn’t surprised. Naruto never could stay still for long periods of time. He was content to wait out his return in silence.
~CALM~
Sasuke dropped Shikamaru off at the front desk of the hotel and waited until he was inside before driving away. He was going to visit the bar at the end of the block and relax for a bit. He felt he had more than earned it this time and was looking forward to knocking back a few.
Entering the bar he found Naruto sitting at the end with a drink in hand. He was completely surprised to see him here of all places and taking a hesitant step towards that direction Sasuke made his way to the end of the bar. Shikamarus words were still ringing in his ears from earlier. ‘I’m giving you one more chance because I have too. Don’t blow it.’
“Do you care if I join you?” He asked quietly.
Naruto turned to glare at the raven haired man making it clear that he really didn’t want to see him right now. “Do whatever, teme.” He snorted. He took a swipe at his drink, grimacing at the burning feeling as it worked its way down his throat and into his stomach, and set it back on the counter. It was clearly something he did sparingly from the looks of it.
“How was the funeral?” Sasuke asked stupidly, pulling up a seat and ordering a rum and coke. Naruto snorted as he took another sip.
“Sad and depressing.” He muttered darkly. Sasuke nodded as his drink was placed in front of him.
“Right…Shikamaru broke his leg earlier.”
Naruto paused and turned to look at Sasuke in disbelief. “How?”
“He got tangled up in the stools at Choji’s.”
“Oh, I bet Shika loves that. Is he ok then?” Naruto whispered.
“He is perfectly healthy besides the broken leg.”
“That is good news and not so good news.” Naruto muttered, allowing silence to descend over them. Sasuke was content to let the silence continue as he tried to compose his thoughts, trying to find the right words to say; to make it sound as genuine as possible. But in typical fashion the words stubbornly eluded him. Uchiha’s didn’t have to apologize because they knew how to keep their partner’s happy! And that was the only thing that kept flitting through his meanderings: Naruto wasn’t his partner...yet!
“Hey, dobe?” Sasuke started 20 minutes later. As much as he tried to find the words they just wouldn’t flow to him. It didn’t help that Naruto was effectively ignoring him. He didn’t like this cold and aloof Naruto, preferring the bright and airy side of him.
“What do want teme?” Naruto demanded. He turned icy-blue eyes on the Uchiha, causing a shiver to race up his spine.
“I’m sorry.” Sasuke blurted out, taking even himself by surprise. Naruto stared as if he grew two heads and Sasuke was beginning to feel uncomfortable with it.
“Apology accepted.” Naruto muttered, turning away from him and ordering another drink. Sasuke couldn’t believe it had been that easy, his mouth falling open slightly.
“Really?” He asked incredulous.
“Really, teme.” Naruto laughed.
“You’re an interesting person, dobe.”
“Forgive me if I don’t agree.” Naruto whispered as he downed the shot that was placed in front of him and made his way to the dance floor. Sasuke took one look back at him, downed his drink and followed.
~CALM~
**LEMON**
Sasuke didn’t know what was happening at first, but he knew he was drunk off his ass. He took one look at the blonde and knew that he was in a similar state of drunkenness, if the stumbling was any indication. He had to hand it to the dobe, though, he could drink him under the table; and it had been too long since he had been this smashed. He couldn’t even recall clearly when that last time was, but they may have been the affects of the alcohol interfering.
He was also excruciatingly excited and the bulge in his pants stated it proudly. As soon as they stumbled into their newly rented hotel room he pushed Naruto down on the bed. The dobe was completely willing as he shed his clothes and sprawled out completely naked, grabbing his cock and jerking himself off wildly. Sasuke was mesmerized by that enticing hand as it stroked vigorously on the stiff cock and he licked his lips in hunger.
Quickly divesting himself of his own clothing, he crawled over the moaning and expectant blonde, tan arms coming up to wrap around his pale shoulders and tan fingers trailing over his nape. He kissed the bronze neck presented to him as Naruto grabbed at his engorged cock and stroked it attentively. Sasuke moaned in appreciation, nipping at the erect buds on the tanned chest and growling. Naruto grunted and ground upward, his breathing coming out ragged.
Onyx eyes paused to watch in fascination as those tan fingers trailed away from his cock and slid over their owners hip, passing over his navel, up his chest, lightly brushing a dusty nipple, tracing up their owners neck before sliding into that sinfully hot mouth, a pink tongue flicking over them tantalizingly. Naruto laughed seductively, watching Sasuke’s hungry and lustful gaze focused solely on his lips. He pulled his leg back and circled the exposed ring of muscles before popping a finger inside himself. His back arched in pleasure as he slid a second finger inside, moaning at the feeling of being stretched, a new sensation for him. Sasuke could only growl gutturally, aching to interfere but spellbound by what he saw. It had him frozen in place, unable to participate and Naruto didn’t seem pleased by that.
He grabbed at the forgotten cock of his lover and stroked again before lining it up to his hole hurriedly, forcing him to participate in a demanding way. Sasuke snapped out of his fugue long enough to pull back, Naruto whimpering at the loss. This was way too fast for his liking. At this rate it would be over before he could enjoy it properly! And he did want to enjoy himself.
“What’s the rush, dobe?” He slurred drunkenly.
“Is there a reason not too?” Naruto asked soberly*.
“I want to enjoy this.” Sasuke whispered in his ear, nipping at the lobe. Naruto shuddered in his hands, wanting more of that feeling. Sasuke flicked out his tongue and traced the shell of his ear, chuckling at the shiver that raced its way over the tan body, raising goosebumps on the flushed skin. Yes, he wanted to enjoy this and he wanted to show the dobe just how much Uchiha’s take care of their lovers.
Naruto was in heaven, loving every minute of the attention lavished on him; his heart and stomach clenching at the thought. Sasuke let his tongue roam over the tanned chin and down that tantalizingly bronzed neck, lapping at his Adam’s apple, and down over his chest. Naruto purred at the exquisite treatment, moaning at every nip and lick, his breathing becoming labored quickly. He felt so high, his pulse beating rapidly through his flushed body…he never felt so good. Never!
Sasuke loved every minute of lavishing his partner, delighting in the little puffs of breath and the moaning. Oh, god that moaning was sinful! His tongue traced over the intricate tattoo inked into his partner’s skin and it excited him to know what that tattoo** stood for. It was a bold statement and he couldn’t agree more with the choice. He pushed lithe legs apart and settled between them; taking the head of Naruto’s raging hard on into his mouth. Naruto gasped and tried to push him away with little success. No one had ever dared…!
He gave in a moment later when that perverted tongue lapped at his slit, causing him to shudder and release. He was panting harshly as he stared into onyx eyes filled with lust, knowing his eyes mirrored the same. He wanted this, he wanted this desperately. Without warning Naruto was flipped onto his knees, his ass rising in the air.
Sasuke pulled at the plump, round globes; spreading them apart and staring in admiration. His onyx eyes roved over the winking hole, sizing it up before he slid his fingers in his own mouth. He gave them a good coat before pushing inside the wanton blonde, who released an appreciative groan at the gentle assault.
He slid his fingers in and out delighting in the moans the dobe was making for him;
his dobe tonight. His other hand found its way to the neglected cock and started pumping vigorously; the blonde melting into the touches. Naruto released a fresh wave of groans, his head tilting back in ecstasy.
“Fuck, teme; don’t stop!” He begged in a voice that was pure sin and heavenly music in one and as much as Sasuke wanted to comply, he couldn’t. Naruto gasped when everything stopped and he was flipped on to his back. The raven wasted no time in pushing up a tan leg, kissing the inner thigh as he pushed inside the willing blonde to the hilt. He groaned at the tight heat surrounding him in ecstasy.
Naruto gasped at the feeling of being filled, tears springing at the corner of his eyes as Sasuke pushed in slowly. His breathing was ragged as he waited for the pain to subside enough to allow any movement and with a nod Sasuke was already half-way out before plunging back in. Naruto whined and panted as he fisted the bed sheets, pushing up to meet Sasuke thrust for thrust.
Sweat beaded on the Uchiha’s brow and he felt the coil in his groin tighten, signaling he was close. He pulled at the cock in his hands, pumping it to the rhythm of his erratic thrusts. All too soon it was over, the dobe’s seed spilling from his writhing body again. Sasuke felt the wall around his cock tighten and with one last thrust, released into the spent blonde.
He collapsed in a panting heap next to the dobe feeling better than he felt in ages; and it was all thanks to Naruto. Naruto...his Naruto now! He was never going to let him go. Gaining his calm breathing back he flipped over and on top of the dobe again. “Are you ready for round two?” Sasuke purred. Naruto laughed and pulled him into a searing kiss, giving him an answer.
