Decieved

I don’t own Naruto nor do I make money from it.

Summary: Naruto enters into a relationship with Itachi. What happens when Naruto is confronted with what Itachi kept hidden from him?

Warning: angst, adult themes, cursing, drama, sap/fluffiness at the end.

A/N: written on request for ASH365 on Y!-gal for catching my kiriban. Contains a little sap at the end, deal with it. This was epic in my head so I had to tone it down or I would end up making it a Multichapter. Please enjoy, if you like, leave a review to feed my muse.

Deceived

Naruto hummed along to the background music as he adjusted the clothes on the racks. He’d been working in Uchiha’s for about a month and he loved it. He got an employee discount, allowing him to purchase name brand clothes for considerably less money. His paycheck, while not six digits, was more than enough to live on. His coworkers were friendly and the atmosphere was bright.

He was about to move to another rack when he saw a slender, long haired gentleman eyeing some of the displays almost critically. Thinking he might have a question, Naruto approached with his natural smile. “Can I help you, sir?”

The man, only an inch or two shorter than himself turned to face him, his dark eyes almost staring through him. Naruto fought the shiver threatening to work through him. He’d never seen eyes so dark or so intense. They seemed to delve into his very mind before the man turned once more to stare at the mannequins on display.

“Does this display draw your attention enough that you would want to buy one of them outfits?” the stranger asked, his eyes not leaving the display.

“Uhhh…well, not really but I’m not in charge of the displays. If it was me, I’d put some of the brighter pieces on display. I mean, if someone wants black, they know they want it but someone may not want orange until well…they see it. Not that there is much orange around here…” Naruto trailed off, mentally fuming at the lack of orange in general.

“Hn. You like orange?” The stranger asked, turning away from the display to face Naruto.

“It’s like the best color in the world. Well, other than discussing the boring nature of the display, is there anything else I can help you with?” Naruto smiled brightly.

“I have a dinner tonight. I came down here to pick up a new tie but was distracted by the display. Perhaps you can help me deciding which to choose?” The stranger moved to the tie rack. The ties varied in color and style from bland to nearly outrageous. There were even a couple featuring cartoon characters.

“How about this one. Blue would go well with a black suit.” Naruto picked up one, holding it for the other to see.

The stranger shook his head. “I don’t like the pattern. What about that one?”

Naruto gave a subtle wince at the one he pointed to. It was the last one in stock. Naruto had been hoping to buy it on Friday with his employee discount. It was a blue tie, nearly matching the color of his eyes. The light swirl pattern was almost invisible unless you were focusing on it. Oh well, it was just a tie after all.

“Hn. I’ll take that one and the red one.” he said, walking to the register where Naruto rung up the purchase.

“$89.54.” Naruto smiled, placing both ties boxes in a bag.

The stranger withdrew his wallet, plucking a hundred dollar note from it as if it was nothing. Must be nice, Naruto thought as he handed the man his change. The man took the bag, looking inside before handing Naruto a tie box, causing him to blink in confusion.

“Is something wrong.” he asked, fighting to keep a frown from working across his face.

“You liked this tie. I bought it for you.” The man said, handing the tie to him.

“But…I can’t accept this.” Naruto stuttered, completely floored. He could literally feel the man’s eyes sweeping over him as if gauging his response.

“Take it. Consider it my gratitude for your honest feedback.” The man turned, making his way out of store without a backwards glance.

For the longest time Naruto stood staring off towards where he disappeared before glancing down at the tie in his hand. He couldn’t stop the small shiver of happiness. While the tie might not be orange, it was a fascinating color and would match his eyes. If he saw the man again, he would definitely do more than gape open mouthed at him. A proper thank you would be in order.

~*~

“Naruto”

Naruto turned from tallying his drawer when his supervisor came up. It was hard to believe Ino had made supervisor already. She’d been working in Uchiha’s since she was seventeen. She’d worked hard to earn the position but she didn’t let it go to her head. If any of the employees under her had a problem, she was more than willing to help out.

“What’s up Ino? I was just about to head out.” Naruto smiled.

“No dice, Naruto. You have closing tonight.” Ino shook her head, giving him an almost pitying look.

“What? My schedule said I didn’t have to close until next week.” Naruto whined, his lower lip poking out.

“Chouji had to go home sick and Shikamaru offered to drive him home. I have an appointment I can’t miss. The only one left I trust is you. Sorry, Naruto. Oh, and could you redo the men’s sportswear display for me? Just pick out some nice clothes and set it up. You don’t have to do anything major to it if you don’t want to.” Ino smiled, patting the dejected shoulders.

“Yeah, sure Ino.” Naruto rallied a smile. At least he would get a little overtime. That was a plus. He could always use the extra money.

~*~

With the gates lowered and locked, Naruto cleared out all the bins of hangers and placed them in the store room along with the returned items. Any clothes left in the dressing rooms were returned to their appropriate rack. Only the night lights were left on, casting an eerie glow over the store.

Grumbling under his breath, he began undressing the mannequins on the display. At least he was being given a chance to spice up the displays a little. Maybe it was a sign that he should discuss them with a stranger today before getting a chance to actually put some of his ideas into play a few short hours later.

Pulling a turquoise hoodie over the male mannequin’s body, he smirked. The track pants went well with the hoodie, offering a casual yet eye catching look. He adjusted the female mannequin, smoothing out her salmon colored sleeveless top. Intricate silver designs were woven into the very fabric. It was neither gaudy, nor plain. Placing the man’s hand on her shoulder, Naruto stepped back to eye the scene. He’d replaced some of the props in favor of more colorful ornamentation. It wasn’t overly done, just a simple yet eye catching set up.

“Adjust her head a little. She looks like she’s staring off into space.”

Naruto screeched, twirling around so fast his feet tangled with each other. His body sprawled painfully on the floor, the sting of landing on the hard floor spreading across his ass. Lifting his gaze, he was pretty sure his eyes bugged out. It was the stranger from earlier in the day.

“What are you still doing here? I closed up an hour ago.” Naruto gaped, a small trickle of fear working through him.

A smirk twitched on the other‘s lips. “Owning a store offers one a few liberties.”

“Owner?” Naruto blinked a few times, his mind trying to search for a name but came up blank.

“Ah, forgive me. Itachi Uchiha.” Itachi’s smirk transformed into a smile as he held out his hand to Naruto.

Naruto took the hand and was pulled to his feet. “Mr. Uchiha, I’m so sorry I didn’t recognize you. I’ve only been here three months and honestly, I’ve better things to do than remember who’s who in the big wig offices.”

Itachi chuckled, nodding to the display. “You chose well. I told Ms. Yamanaka to have you stay late. I wanted to see what you could do.”

“Well, I was a little tame. I didn’t want anything too gaudy.” Naruto grinned, a hand lifting to his hair in a nervous gesture.

“Does my store have…gaudy?” Itachi frowned, his eyes sweeping the area.

“Uhh, there are a couple of pieces in formal wear that I would be embarrassed to see on any woman.” Naruto snickered, recalling a particular red sequined dress. The design of the dress was simple. The gaudiness came from the big black flower on the ass a crotch. It was almost like a bull’s-eye.

Itachi chuckled, the rich sound stroking across Naruto with an almost physical touch. He fought the urge to purr in response to the sound. Bad Naruto. He didn’t know this man other than by reputation. He didn’t know in which direction he swung or if he was even interested.

“Are you finished?”

Naruto’s mind jumped back into his body. “What?”

“Are you finished here? If you are interested, we can have a late dinner. I know this small diner that is open late.” Itachi offered, the small smile still on his face.

“Are you paying?” Naruto’s hand immediately slapped over his mouth. “Sorry, I didn’t mean to say that.”

Itachi chuckled again, that deep rumbling sound. “I asked you to dinner so I will pay.”

“Well, I can’t turn down a free dinner.” Naruto grinned, knowing it would be better than his paltry cupboards at home.

Itachi placed a hand on Naruto’s arm, leading him through the racks towards the back where he grabbed his keys, coat, and wallet. As Naruto locked up the employee door, he turned to see Itachi watching him. “Do you have a car?”

Naruto shook his head. He usually took the bus and walked the last block to his apartment. It made him feel a little ashamed; bumming dinner and a ride from his boss. He’d find a way to repay him. Naruto Uzumaki was no moocher.

“Come with me.” Itachi said, leading the way into the parking garage where a black Mercedes Benz SL550 sat. The sleek car gleamed in the dim lighting, mocking Naruto as if to warn against one such as him climbing inside.

The car beeped, lights flashing, as Itachi unlocked it. Naruto merely stood staring. Would he taint the car by sitting in it. He glanced at his feet to make sure there was no dirt or grease to stain the interior.

“Get in. You won’t hurt the car. I have it regularly detailed.” Itachi chuckled, nodding to the opposite door.

“Yeah, well, you’d feel the same way too if you were offered a ride in a car worth more than your life.” Naruto mumbled, sliding in.

The other chuckled in mirth. “I wouldn’t worry. This car is only worth about a hundred and fifty thousand. My brother is more of the car aficionado. I would imagine some of his vehicles are worth nearly a million.”

Naruto’s eyes bugged out at the thought of a car worth nearly a million dollars. Was it even worth it to drive? If Naruto had access to a car worth that much, it would stay on a pedestal behind a glass case out of fear of destroying it. Itachi seemed to see the wheels turning, most likely reading the direction his thoughts were taking.

“Sasuke uses many of them for show purposes. He collects cars like some people collect stamps or coins.” Itachi offered.

“What do you collect then?” Naruto asked.

Itachi smirked, his eyes darting off the road for a moment to glance at his passenger. “Ah, I think I would need to know you longer before I reveal all my secrets.”

Naruto fought against the blush threatening to rush across his face. What was it about this man that completely entranced him? This was just a friendly date between coworkers. He shouldn’t look too much into it. With that thought firmly placed in his mind, he relaxed with his companion.

The small diner they arrived at was a bit tarnished on the outside but the interior reminded Naruto of those classical dinners from the fifties. It was so clean, one could almost eat off the floor. The staff seemed pleasant and the atmosphere amazing.

Dinner went smoothly, Naruto chatting happily with Itachi. The food was amazing. The company even more so. He never would have thought he would meet someone like Itachi, let alone be eating dinner with him. Itachi seemed to anticipate his every need or want. Maybe this was the beginning of something great.

~*~

Naruto jerked from his thoughts, racing to the door into his apartment at the knock. Itachi had promised to spend the weekend with him. After that first dinner, he’d shown up regularly with offers to dinners or shows. Naruto, unable to say no to him, willing went along for the ride. It was almost pathetically easy at how fast he fell in love with the other man.

Itachi let him see the part of himself hidden from others. He liked to be teased. He was ticklish along his ribs. He loved Mongolian beef. He hated comedies but loved the movie Spaceballs. These were just some of the things Naruto was privy to and they only made him love him even more.

Pulling open the door, Naruto practically fell into Itachi’s arms. It had been two weeks since they’d last seen each other. He’d practically been going through withdrawals for his dark eyed lover. “I missed you.”

Itachi smiled, closing the door and pressing Naruto against it. “I missed you too.”

Naruto moaned as Itachi’s lips covered his. He could taste the faint flavor of coffee on his tongue as the other devoured him. He felt frantic hands sliding beneath his shirt to stroke at his abdomen and chest. Any thought of dinner went straight from his mind as Itachi stripped the tee-shirt from him.

“I want to keep you naked all the time, ready for me.” Itachi murmured against his neck, his breath on the delicate skin sending shivers though him.

“Well, you practically keep me naked anyway.” Naruto chuckled, feeling Itachi smile against his neck.

“It’s because I can’t resist you.” Itachi pulled back, jerking Naruto to the couch almost desperately.

He dropped to the couch, pulling Naruto to straddle his lap. Their erections rubbed against each other through the cloth as Itachi ground Naruto down, the air around them growing heavy.

Itachi’s hands made quick work of Naruto’s pants and his own, shoving aside the dark cotton to reveal matching erections. His fingers traced the trail of hair from Naruto’s abdomen to his erection, circling the base with a finger before gliding upward towards the glistening tip.

“Itachi…I can’t wait…” Naruto moaned, grinding his ass against the other as teeth nibbled along his arched neck.

Itachi hummed against the skin he was torturing, enjoying the slight taste of salt on the skin. He bit hard before stroking his tongue against the skin. His hands shuffled through his discarded suit jacket, producing a fresh bottle of lubricant. “Then don’t.”

Naruto grinned, snatching the bottle from slim fingers. “Always prepared?”

“Only around you.” Itachi hissed as Naruto squirted the clear gel in his hand. “Wait…condom.”

Naruto whined, waiting for Itachi to roll the translucent latex down his erection. He hated and loved how Itachi always made sure to use a condom. He hated it because he wanted to feel his cum inside him but he was also touched that Itachi cared enough about him to want to use protection. He was positive he was clean since Itachi was his first lover since his last check up. He was pretty sure Itachi was clean too. He couldn’t imagine someone like Itachi getting an STD.

Itachi nodded, leaning back as Naruto stroked his hands over the latex. He released little groans and hisses as the other stroked his slick hands up and down the shaft, spreading the gel. “Enough. I though you couldn’t wait?”

Naruto leaned in to nibble at Itachi’s lips. “I can’t.”

Lifting himself with Itachi’s help, he guided the thickness inside. As always, the first entrance stung a little as his lover slid inside. It had been over two weeks since they’d made love. He shuddered at the feeling of completion Itachi brought to him. He wasn’t whole unless Itachi was in his life.

“You feel good.” groaned Itachi, lifting Naruto to begin a rhythm.

“So do…oh!” Naruto arched as his prostate, long neglected, tingled at the brushing of Itachi’s cock.

Itachi shivered as Naruto clamped down around him with each downward thrust. His fingers tightened so hard on Naruto’s hips, they were sure to leave bruises. His control broke somewhere between Naruto’s clenching and the deep needy moan he released.

Pushing the blond from his lap, he shoved him face down into the sofa. This wasn’t completely unexpected for Naruto. Their sex usually turned desperate very quickly. Naruto scrabbled for a grip on the arm before Itachi pushed harshly inside.

“Ah!” he closed his eyes as his body quaked under the assault. Itachi taking him hard always brought him to the edge much quicker. It was a testament to how much the other wanted him, wanted release in his body.

The room was quickly filled with the grunts and pants of the two as Itachi lunged heavily against his lover. His fingers burned their marks on tan hips, each gasp and grunt sending them both closer and closer to the edge.

“Itachi!” Naruto screamed, his body bowing upward as ripping sound was heard.

Itachi quickened this thrusts, each slamming against the other’s prostate as his hand reached below to jerk almost roughly on Naruto’s erection. Itachi‘s panted gasp was the final straw. “Naruto…”

Naruto’s body went rigid, sparks danced before his eyes as heat rushed through his body to pool in his abdomen before shooting outward. He released a high pitched whine as he collapsed on the couch. He could feel Itachi shuddering behind him making him wish he could feel the heat spurting in him. Fingers tightened in his hair, forcing his neck to arch back, his lips taken by Itachi’s in a passionate kiss before both collapsed onto the sofa.

Aftershocks of pleasure trembled through him. It never got old. He never got tired of being taken by Itachi. He loved him with every fiber in his being. He wanted to be with him forever. He couldn’t hold in the words any longer. He had to vocalize what he felt for the other. “I love you.”

He felt Itachi stiffen above him before lifting to discard the used condom. Naruto lowered his head, hurt working through him. He’d been so sure Itachi felt the same. He was so caring. He seemed to genuinely want to be with him. Had he read the signs wrong?

“I’m sorry, I shouldn’t have said anything.” he murmured, pulling on his pants while using his shirt to wipe the cum from the couch.

Itachi grabbed Naruto’s arm, turning him to face him. “Did you think I would want to spend time with you if I didn’t feel the same. I just…”

“What?” Naruto rubbed his fingers over the slender ones clenched on his arm.

“Nothing. Never doubt how I feel.” Itachi pulled Naruto in his arms, kissing the other gently. “You mentioned dinner?”

~*~

Naruto heard a phone ringing. His eyes opened blearily. A quick glance at the clock showed it wasn’t even seven. There was no reason for anyone to be calling. Itachi’s arm reached over him to pluck the cell from the bedside table. “Yes?”

Naruto snuggled back in the comforter, waiting for Itachi to finish his call. Maybe they could have a morning fuck before breakfast. When he felt the other’s weight leave the bed, he sat up. “Is something wrong?”

“I have business I need to take care of.” Itachi said, pulling on a pair of casual trousers and a black turtle neck shirt.

“But…you said this weekend was just us…” Naruto hated whiners and hated himself even more for sounding like one. Be that as it may, he couldn’t stop the misting of tears in his eyes or the quivering of his lips.

Itachi sighed, settling on the bed and pulling Naruto into his lap. “I know. I’m sorry. I’ll make it up to you, I promise.”

Naruto nodded, burying his face in Itachi’s neck. He felt the other pressing kisses along his temple and jaw before pulling him back to lick gently at his lips. “Go back to bed. I’ll call you later.”

Itachi stood, grabbing his coat from the chair, he closed the bedroom door and left the apartment. Silence descended over the room as Naruto nibbled on his lips. He couldn’t stop the feeling of foreboding washing through him. The last few weeks had shown Itachi growing more and more distant. He didn’t want to think something was wrong with their relationship but he couldn’t stop the feeling of being left in the dark.

He made his decision not to bother Itachi about it. Maybe there was some big deal with work and that had him distracted. If it got to be too much, then he would bring it up to Itachi again.

~*~

“Hey Naruto!” yelled Ten-Ten, jogging over towards where Naruto was ringing up several items from a customer.

“Have a nice day.” Naruto smiled brightly before turning to Ten-Ten. “What’s up?”

“There’s a lady at customer service. She was asking for you so I said I would come get you.” Ten-Ten grinned. “Playing up to the richies, eh?”

Naruto returned the grin. “Well, you know, they just can’t keep their hands off me.”

“Flirt.” she swatted at his arm as they walked together towards customer service.

A pretty pink haired woman turned to face Naruto. It was obvious from the tips of her Stuart Weitzman pumps to the smooth upswept hair that she was very wealthy. “Naruto Uzumaki?”

“Yes, ma’am. How can I help you?” Naruto smiled brightly. His complete ease made the coming shock all the more poignant.

The woman stepped up to him, drew back her hand and slapped him across the face so hard, the resounding crack was heard several feet away. Ten-Ten nearly fell off her stool behind the customer service desk.

Naruto didn’t know what to think. His cheek stung bitterly along with the taste of blood in his mouth where the sharp blow caused his teeth to cut his inner cheek. Unable to do anything more than stare at her, he brought a hand up to cradle his throbbing cheek.

“What the hell are you doing, bitch?” yelled Ten-Ten, rushing to Naruto’s side.

“My name is Sakura Uchiha. That was just a warning. I know about your dalliances with Itachi. This is your only warning. Stay away from my husband.” she growled.

Husband. The bottom seemed to drop out from beneath him at that one word. That was the reason why Itachi wouldn’t say he loved him. That was the reason he was so busy on many of the evenings. That was the reason he hadn’t taken Naruto to meet his family. It was because he had a wife.

“I’m sorry…” Naruto whispered, tears now threatening to spill over from his eyes. He would not cry. He would not cry. He would not give anyone the satisfaction.

“Hmph, just stay away from Itachi. Go find your own man without trying to take someone else’s.” she snarled, her eyes flashing emerald.

“Watch it, bitch! Naruto hasn‘t stolen anyone. If you husband is looking elsewhere, you must not be very satisfying in the sack.” screamed Ten-Ten, her fists ready to defend her friend.

“Please don’t, Ten-Ten. It’s alright. I’m going to the washroom to clean up.” He glanced at his shirt where a little bit of blood from his mouth had dribbled onto the white material.

“I’m coming with you, Naruto.” Ten-Ten’s eyes shot daggers at Sakura Uchiha as she lead a still shell shocked Naruto towards the washroom.

Naruto could do no other than allow himself to be lead away. His mind still could not fully wrap around the thought. Itachi was married. He didn’t wear a ring but that wasn’t uncommon. His heart seemed to crack a little more as the shock wore off. He was Itachi’s plaything; a tight bit of ass on the side before going back to his wife.

“You okay, Naruto?” Ten-Ten asked, dabbing at the blood on his shirt with a damp cloth.

“I…umm, Ten-Ten, can you go ask Ino if I can go home? I’m not feeling so well.” Naruto murmured, fighting back tears once more.

“Sure, hun.” she smiled sadly, leaving him alone.

He lifted his eyes to the mirror, almost shocked at what he saw. The red handprint was plainly visible on his cheek, slightly swollen. His eyes glistened with unshed tears. He could see the forlorn look but it in no way expressed the crushing pain ripping through him.

His hand lifted to touch the cheek, feeling the numb pain still remaining coupled with the pain from the cut in his mouth. “Naruto?”

Naruto turned to see Ino. “Hey, Ino. Can I go home. I don’t think I’m in any shape to work today.”

Ino wrapped her arms around Naruto. “Ten-Ten told me. Was what Sakura said true? Are you seeing Itachi Uchiha?”

“Yeah, I didn’t know he was married. I just…I don’t want to talk about it.” Naruto murmured, laying his cheek on her ample buxom.

“It’s Friday. Go on home. Use the weekend to rest.” Ino patted him on the back.

Naruto plastered a smile on his face. If he could just keep the smile up until he got home everything would be alright. He could hide his pain. He’d done it when his parents died. He’d done it when his godfather had died. No one needed to know how much he was hurting, it would bring nothing but pitying looks like those coming from Ten-Ten and Ino.

“Thank you.” he said, standing.

The walk to the bus stop was wrought with thoughts, many causing the shards of his heart to shatter even more. His chest literally ached with the pain. He’d never thought a broken heart would have such a physical pain.

As he walked into his apartment, he closed the door before crumpling to the ground. He was alone now. Tears poured down his face. He’d loved Itachi so much; imagined a life together with him. He didn’t want him for his money or prestige. He just wanted him for him and now that was taken away, his dreams shattered so completely he was unable to do more than bawl out his suffering.

The drops of his tears stained the wooden floor in his foyer. His sobs echoed through the silent room. Itachi. Why had he let him get so close? Why had he allowed himself to fall in love so easily? It only meant heart break in the end.

Dragging himself to his feet, he tossed his cell and keys on the bedside table before curling into the bed. Even though he’d changed the sheets, he could swear he smelled Itachi’s woodsy scent. The thought brought a fresh wash of pain. He’d never felt anything like this. When his parents died, he’d been young. When his godfather died, it had hurt but he’d worked through it. With this, knowing Itachi had used him, it hurt ten times worse than anything he’d ever experienced.

“Itachi…” Naruto whimpered into the pillow.

He wasn’t sure when or how he fell asleep but the consistent ringing of his cell phone brought him from his slumber. He drowsily glanced at the clock as he put the phone to his ear. Ten p.m. He‘d slept all afternoon. “Hello?”

“Naruto? I’ve been calling for two hours. Why haven’t you been answering?” Itachi’s voice brought both warmth along with a fresh rush of pain.

“I’ve been asleep.” Naruto mumbled.

“Asleep? Are you sick? Do you need me to come?” He could almost hear the frown in Itachi’s voice. The concern sounded so genuine. Why did he have to sound so wonderful?

“No.” Naruto answered, not knowing what else to say.

“Naruto…I’m coming to your apartment. Something’s wrong.” Naruto closed his eyes at the rush of hope before quickly smashing it down.

“Don’t. I…can’t….” Naruto whispered.

“Baby? What’s wrong?” Itachi asked, causing fresh tears to spill down his face. He’d called him baby.

“I can’t see you anymore. I love you so much but I can’t…I’m not going to be the dirty little secret you hide. I thought I meant more to you…please…just…it’s over.” Naruto doubled over, a silent scream making no sound as it escaped. He pressed the end button, not able to bear Itachi’s voice any longer. That was it. It was over. The best thing to happen to him in a very long time was gone just as quickly as he came.

The phone immediately began to ring. Naruto merely turned it off. There was nothing left to say. Dropping the phone to the floor, he curled into the blankets once more.

He wasn’t sure how long he lay there. Sleep wouldn’t come but he lacked the energy to do more than curl up in a ball to lick his wounds. Banging on his door returned him to reality. He rolled over. It was Itachi. He just couldn’t bear to face him. The hurt was too new. If he let him hold him, comfort him, he would forgive him. He would let him do what he wanted. He couldn’t live like that.

“Go away.” he whispered, bringing the pillow over his head. “Please, go away.”

It took several minutes but the pounding stopped. He sighed in relief. Closing his eyes, he couldn’t help but remember their first time together. It had started out as kissing, which led to petting, which led to Naruto pinned on the floor.

Their first time had been hard and fast, leaving both covered in sweat and cum. His ass had ached for two days afterward. After that, Itachi could barely keep his hands off him. He was no different. Just knowing he was allowed to touch something so pretty and almost untouchable gave him a heady high. He’d foolishly assumed Itachi was his. He was an idiot.

~*~

Naruto blinked awake. This time the pounding on his door was more subdued. He was tempted to go back to sleep but the light in the room said it was after noon already. Trudging from his bedroom, he peeked through the peephole. Seeing Ino caused him to relax. Opening the door, he forced a smile on his face. “Hey, Ino.”

“Naruto…how are you feeling?” she asked, her eyes soft with worry.

“I’m great. I was just about to make some coffee. Would you like some?” he asked, turning away from the look in her eyes.

“Sure.” She followed him to the kitchen. “You don’t look so good, Naruto.”

“I just woke up. I’m still a little groggy.” he said, placing coffee, creamer, and sugar between them.

“Naruto, I have some bad news.” she smiled sadly.

“What?” he asked, nothing could be as bad as how he felt now.

“I have to let you go. Word of that fiasco yesterday made it up to my boss. You admitted to being in a relationship with Itachi Uchiha. You should have known better. Inter-company relationships are one of the cardinal no-nos. I cleaned out your locker for you.” she gestured to the bag she’d set on the floor when she’d entered the apartment.

Naruto said nothing. He hadn’t been expecting this and was too shocked to say anything. He wondered briefly if Itachi had arranged it.

“Naruto…I’ll be a reference for you. I wouldn’t let you be completely dumped. You’ll have no problem finding another job. On your application, just put you wanted a change. I’ll support that.” Ino wrung her hands, not knowing what to say.

“Thank you, Ino.” Naruto smiled. Though it did not reach his eyes, she seemed comforted by it.

“Well, I’ll miss you. I’ll mail your last check to you.” she smiled.

Left alone once more, he sat brooding. Finding another job would need to come first. His last paycheck was sure to be tiny and rent was due soon. He hadn’t had much time to build up a savings so Monday he would have to go job hunting. Sighing, he trudged towards the bedroom again when his eyes caught sight of shirt in his bathroom hamper.

Grabbing the shirt, he brought it to his nose. It still smelled like Itachi. He usually did laundry on Mondays. Itachi still had clothes here.

Digging through his spare room, he produced a sizable box. Carefully folding each piece of clothing, he laid them in the box. He refused to turn into a scorned lover who ripped things to shreds or piled clothes on the curb. His hand trembled as he reached for the pendant around his neck. Itachi had draped it around his neck on his birthday and he rarely took it off.

Closing his eyes in pain, he slid the necklace over his head and placed it inside an envelope. He probably could have sold the necklace for a bit of money but the thought made him feel cheapened. He couldn’t bear the thought of selling something he’d cherished so deeply.

Once everything was boxed up, he placed it on the floor. He would take it on Monday and have it mailed to Itachi. Glancing towards the bed, he saw the dirty shirt he’d fetched from the hamper. This one he would keep.

Curling on the bed, he brought the soft cotton to his nose and breathed in. “Itachi…I miss you.”

~*~

Itachi scowled at the document he was sifting through in his private office. His mood had been less than pleasant for a week. It had been almost a week since Naruto had told them they were over. He’d even gone so far as to ask Ino what where he was when he wasn’t in the store on Monday. All she would say was that he no longer worked for Uchiha’s.

He didn’t know how he found out about Sakura but there would be hell to pay when he did. He’d known he and Sakura were through. They hadn’t been man and wife for a long time. It had been almost two years since they’d even shared a bed.

They played at husband and wife for his parents. Sakura liked the ready access to anything she wanted. Lately though, she had started coming on strong to him, almost as if she wanted to renew their marriage. Marrying Sakura had made his parents happy. He had done so for his family but he’d felt a little something for her…hadn’t he?

Since meeting Naruto, he’d considered divorcing her. They weren’t really married anyway. He’d just procrastinated because he’d been unsure how to tell his parents. They were still eagerly awaiting grandchildren from him and Sasuke.

His fist was brought down once more on the desk, shaking the computer and paper weights. He wanted Naruto. He was the only one who saw the real Itachi. Everyone else saw the cutthroat businessman. They saw a wealthy man would could buy anything he wanted. That didn’t matter to Naruto, he’d just wanted to be with Itachi.

“Itachi.” Itachi’s scowl deepened even more a her entrance.

“What do you want, Sakura?” he asked, his face pulled into a neutral expression.

“Your mother sent me to get you for dinner.” Sakura smiled walking over to the desk to run her fingers over Itachi’s arm.

He glanced up to push her away when he saw a shimmering blue pendant dangling from her throat. His hand latched onto her arm. “Where did you get that?”

“This? A package arrived a little while ago. I knew you wouldn’t mind if I opened it. This was inside. Isn’t it lovely? I think it matches my dress perfectly.” she smiled playing with the crystal.

Itachi’s sight went red. How dare she wear that? He’d hand picked it for Naruto. Only Naruto was allowed to wear it. He lunged to his feet, grabbing the pendant and lifting it over her head.

“Hey?” She stumbled as he pushed her aside.

“This isn’t yours.” He growled caressing the pendant gently with his thumb.

“Well it certainly doesn’t belong to your little whore any more. He sent it back so I just thought I would make use of it.” she pouted.

Itachi fought back the urge to kill the woman. He knew it was just her defense mechanism. She was just as aware as him that their marriage was over. It was just a matter of time before one or both of them moved on. “Naruto is not a whore.”

“You were married to me until he showed up.” she said, her eyes glazing over with tears.

“Sakura…”

“You promised to love, honor, and cherish me.” Her voice was beginning to crack with sobs.

“Sakura, you know as well as I we haven’t been married for a long time. Even if we divorce, I’ll always take care of you.” he said, staring deeply into her eyes.

“It won’t be the same. Divorce is final. At least with us married, I still had a chance.” she whispered leaning against him, her tears wetting his shirt.

“I love Naruto. I don’t want to be without him. Let me go, Sakura. There is someone wonderful out there for you.” Itachi stroked her back. He felt the weight lifted from his shoulders. The should have had this talk long ago.

“I still love you.” she said, lifting her watery eyes.

“No, you don’t. You love being Mrs. Itachi Uchiha.” Itachi chuckled.

“I don’t know what I’m going to do.” she said, pulling back to dab at her eyes with a handkerchief.

“You are a strong woman. You’ll figure it out.” he said.

“Should we tell your parents?” she asked.

“Yeah. I don’t want them interfering with me and Naruto.” he said, taking her hand and leading her towards the dining room.

~*~

Naruto groaned as he slumped in the break room. He’d been forced to take a job as a waiter. There just wasn’t any jobs available in retail for someone with his experience.

His current job didn’t pay nearly enough and he feared he was going to have to get a second job or move into a cheaper apartment. Neither option thrilled him.

“Naruto, someone’s out here looking for you.” one of his fellow waiters called to him.

He groaned, this was the first chance he’d had to sit all day. He’d wanted to relish his fifteen minutes of rest before the afternoon rush. “Fine, Fine.”

Trudging out of the back room, he froze at who he saw. Itachi stood there, dressed in his typical black suit, wearing the tie he’d bought on the day they met. Just looking at him standing stoically only a few feet from him made Naruto want to run into his arms. Even after nearly a month apart, it still hurt just as bad.

“Itachi.” Naruto nodded, trying not to look him in the eye.

Itachi walked forward, arm extended before pausing. “Naruto, can we talk?”

“Umm…” He just wasn’t sure he would be able to. Just looking at Itachi hurt more than he’d ever thought possible. All the memories of their times together came rushing at him in a wave.

“Please, Naruto.” Itachi did touch him this time, his hand laying comfortably on his shoulder.

A shiver worked through him. “We can go outside. I only have ten minutes left on my break so it will have to be quick.”

Itachi followed Naruto outside. “You look tired.”

“Yeah, this place keeps me busy. I’m probably going to have to get a second job though.” Naruto wrinkled his face at the unpleasant thought.

“Come back to me.” Itachi reached up a hand to stroke the faintly marked cheeks.

“No!” Naruto backed up. “I’m not going to be someone you come to when you want sex. You have a wife for that. I can’t take being kept on the side.”

“Sakura and I haven’t been man and wife for a very long time. I hadn’t divorced her before I met you because there was no point. We were content as things were. When I met you, things started to change and she sensed it. That’s why she found you. That’s why she confronted you. She did what any creature would do when cornered.” Itachi explained, stepping closer.

“It doesn’t matter. I don’t want to share you, Itachi. If I can’t have all of you I don’t want you at all.” Naruto sidestepped the attempted touch.

“Sakura and I have already filed for divorce. I’ve set her up in an apartment where she can lead her own life. She will always be a part of my life because once upon a time we were friends and I hope to one day gain that back from her but…it is you whom I love. It is you whom I want to spend my life with. Come back to me, Naruto.” Itachi approached again. This time, Naruto allowed him.

He wanted to run into his arms. He wanted to be with him again. He wanted the pain and hurt to go away, leaving him comforted in Itachi’s arms. He wanted to believe him.

“Please, Naruto. Trust in me. I won’t ever hurt you again. I didn’t tell you about Sakura because I wasn’t to protect you. I won’t keep anything from you again. Please, come back to me.” Itachi reached forward, cupping Naruto’s face with his hands. “I promise.”

Their lips touched, gliding over each other in a gentle kiss. Naruto shivered, tears welling in his eyes. He didn‘t bother fighting them. Itachi was here with him. Itachi wanted only him. This kiss made all the hurt and sadness melt away. “I missed you.”

Itachi smiled, his fingers tunneling through blond locks. “I missed you. I have something that belongs to you.”

Pulling the crystal from his pocket, he fastened it around Naruto’s neck for a second time. “I love you.”

Naruto buried himself in Itachi’s chest. He didn’t care if the world saw them. He didn’t care if he was crying before God and everyone. All he cared about was the warmth of the arms around him. With Itachi, he wouldn’t be lonely ever again. There would be no more deceit and no more lies for either of them.
The End