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Iruka had been looking forward to that evening all week and now that it was upon him, he was buzzing with excitement.
It was a standing tradition in the Umino family to have dinner together every other Thursday, and Iruka tried his best not to miss them. Sometimes they were rearranged if he had a deadline that couldn’t be renegotiated or he fell ill. Other times there was an honorary member of the family dining with them, Naruto’s energetic personality lifting everyone’s moods yet wearing them down as well. Iruka extended the invitation to his Little Brother earlier in the week, the blond overly ecstatic that he’d get to see the grandparents that he had adopted. Iruka was glad that the conversation was through text, unable to contain the laughter at Naruto’s innocent yet ridiculous behavior.
Naruto was complaining about an English paper that was due the following Monday. Iruka concentrated on driving and listened intently as he whined about the unobtainable expectations that his teacher had as well as how boring the book that the paper centered around was. It was a work that Iruka was quite familiar with, having done a research paper in college describing the development between the characters. Seeing the frustrations in his friend’s eyes, Iruka offered to help him over the weekend and possibly turn it into a sleepover. The teen was all for it.
“A few things before we go inside,” Iruka said, shutting the engine of his car off once it was parked, “Dad is getting over a nasty cold so don’t bombard him. Mom didn’t have time to make dessert, so I’ll take you out for ice cream after we leave. Remember that there are other people eating beside you. You’re limited to three helpings tonight.”
“Jeez, you act like I have eaten all day,” Naruto muttered, rolling his eyes when his friend lifted a brow, “I get it. I’ll even be extra nice to Granny and Gramps.”
“That’s never been a problem,” Iruka said.
Climbing out of the car, Iruka waited in front of the vehicle for Naruto to join him. They had an unofficial bet of what Iruka’s mother made for dinner that evening. The blond won more times than not since she loved to lavish his favorite meals on him. Iruka declared he only won since the contest was rigged in his favor. Naruto giggled until he was breathless every time.
Kisses and hugs were doled out by Mrs. Umino, the woman receiving several in return. She had a knack for making each person feel like the most unique individual in the world and tailored the conversation around their interests. Naruto fell into the relaxed interaction immediately as he draped an arm around her shoulders and rambled about everything that had happened at school so far that week. Iruka shook his head as he chuckled before following them.
“Iruka, how’s the young man that you’ve been seeing doing?” his mother asked while tossing a salad.
“Kakashi’s well. He’s been busy with work this week so I haven’t had much time to talk with him,” Iruka replied, “We’ve made plans for dinner and a movie on Saturday.”
“Instead of going out to eat, why don’t you bring him over here?” she proposed, “I’d love to meet the one that has brought the brightest smiles I’ve ever seen from you.”
“Mom,” Iruka muttered, feeling a blush bubbling onto his cheeks.
“I’d love to meet him. Your father would too,” she said.
“I’ll see if he’s up to it,” he said, “Just no embarrassing me please.”
“Not even a baby picture or two?” his mother inquired.
“That’s at the top of the list,” Iruka grumbled, narrowing his eyes when she laughed.
Trying his best to pay attention to the discussion between his mother and Naruto, Iruka hoped it wasn’t too soon in his and Kakashi’s relationship for him to meet his parents.
Are you busy?
~*Iruka*~
Nope
What’s up?
~K
Iruka tapped his phone against his chin while he thought about the chat that he needed to have with Kakashi. He had spent all day gathering the courage he needed to invite him to his parents’ house for dinner before their date. His mind flew to the worst-case scenario constantly, imagining Kakashi’s disapproving voice telling him that he was too zealous in their relationship and breaking up over his clinging and neediness. Taking a deep breath, Iruka decided to get it over with and pressed the call button on Kakashi’s contact information.
“Hey. Everything alright?” Kakashi asked when he answered.
“I’m not sure yet,” Iruka admitted, “Naruto and I had dinner with my parents last night.”
“Did you have a good time?” he inquired when there was a long pause.
“It was nice. We get together every other week, but that’s only part of why I’m calling,” Iruka said.
“Ok.”
“Instead of eating at a restaurant, my mom wanted to know if you’d like to come over for dinner before the movie on Saturday,” he said, rushing his words.
“I’d love to,” Kakashi said.
The anxiety that had ensnared him for over a day dissipated immediately upon hearing Kakashi’s acceptance. He had been prepared to debate his position and pitch how fantastic his parents were to sway Kakashi into the invitation. The lack of hesitation on his partner’s behalf endeared him to him even more.
“You still there?” Kakashi questioned.
“Yeah, sorry. I’ve been overthinking again and was convinced that you’d think it was too soon,” Iruka responded, “My biggest fear was that you were going to break up with me because I was jumping the gun.”
“I want to meet the people that created and raised the most wonderful man on the planet,” Kakashi said, “Let me know what time on Saturday.”
“Is five alright? I’ll pick you up so you don’t have to deal with me giving horrible directions or the roundabout way the GPS always pulls up,” Iruka stated.
“Sounds great. Is there anything that I can bring? I want to make a good impression on them,” he said.
“Just yourself,” Iruka said.
“I’m looking forward to it,” Kakashi said, Iruka hearing the smile in his voice, “Are you going to be at the basketball game tomorrow?”
“Wouldn’t miss it for the world,” Iruka replied with a grin.
“Good because I need an Iruka fix,” Kakashi said, Iruka laughing at his confession, “How did your day go?”
They talked for an hour about their day and those that impacted them. Iruka divulged what an idiot Genma had been so far that week. When Kakashi asked about it, Iruka told him about the shirt he wore on casual day, the slogan ‘God’s busy, may I help you’ emblazoned on his shirt. Kakashi’s groan echoed his own when he saw it in the office, but then he revealed the email that was accidentally CCed to the entire company instead of upper management. The blunder caused an uproar with the employees since it pertained to drastically decreasing their personal days, the idea being shelved when discontented murmurs of seeking out other employment began making the rounds.
Kakashi shared the problems that they were having with the finishing touches on an elementary school he’d been working on. The higher-ups in the firm wanted to sign off on the project but Kakashi refused to put his name on it if they didn’t follow through with his recommendations. He explained that while there was a minuscule chance of it happening, the building could have considerable structural damage later on if the finer details weren’t completed. He was determined to get his way and had enlisted the help of the firm’s lawyer, asking the woman to outline any legal ramifications that might befall the company if the worst-case scenario came to fruition.
“I should probably let you go,” Iruka said, “As much as I’d love to talk with you all night, we both have to get up early.”
“Sadly,” Kakashi agreed with a sigh, “I’ll see you tomorrow. Sweet dreams, Iruka.”
“You too, Kakashi. See you then.”
Ending the call, a broad grin broke out as he thought about how easily Kakashi accepted the invitation, impatiently waiting for the time to pass until five on Saturday afternoon.
Iruka knew he was overthinking things, but he couldn’t help his anxiety as he drove toward his parents’ house. Kakashi was a welcoming presence, holding the hand on the gear shift as they traversed down the road. The silence between them was comforting, Iruka knowing he’d be a babbling mess if he tried to carry on a conversation.
Pulling in front of the house, Iruka had to stifle a groan when he saw his mother watering the plants in the front yard, certain that she saved the chore for their arrival. The smile she wore was blinding when she turned around and saw them getting out of the car. It didn’t surprise Iruka that she rushed to the driveway, embracing him tightly.
“So good to see you, my little dolphin,” his mother said, kissing Iruka’s cheek, “How are you, honey?”
“I’m good,” Iruka said, returning the hug and disentangling himself before reaching for Kakashi’s hand, “Ma, this is Kakashi. This is my mom. I’m guessing Dad’s inside?”
“Pleased to meet you, Mrs. Umino,” Kakashi said, holding her hand in both of his and grasping it lightly.
“Please, dear, it’s just Kohari or Ma,” she said.
“Ma!” Iruka exclaimed in mortification.
“It’s alright,” Kakashi murmured loud enough so only Iruka heard, pressing his lips onto his partner’s temple, “I love her already.”
“The evening’s still young,” Iruka said, laughing weakly, “I want to introduce you to my dad. He’s not as assertive.”
Iruka held Kakashi’s hand as he led him to the house. He gave him a brief tour as he poked his head into each room looking for his father. Finally finding him in the family room, Iruka smiled at Kakashi before going to greet his father.
“Hey Dad,” Iruka said, his smile growing when his father looked up.
“Is it that time already?” he asked, groaning as he stood slowly.
“We’re a little early,” Iruka replied, “Dad, this is my partner, Kakashi.”
“Please to meet you, Kakashi. We’ve heard a lot about you,” Ikakku said.
“Really?” Kakashi inquired, glancing at Iruka to see a sprinkling of pink on his cheeks, “It’s nice meeting you too. Iruka’s talked a lot about you as well.”
“We’ll have to compare stories,” Ikkaku teased, laughing and patting Iruka’s shoulder when he groaned pitifully, “I wouldn’t do that to you, son. Let’s go see if your mother needs a hand.”
Iruka followed his father into the kitchen and watched his parents interact with each other. While he thought it embarrassing in the past, he now understood the meaning of subtle touches and fond kisses. He found himself wanting to share the same with Kakashi but knew they hadn’t reached the stage in their relationship that it was appropriate. Patiently waiting for the day that he could, Iruka filed his parents’ behavior and love for one another away for that time.
“Iruka, would you be a darling and get a few basil leaves from the garden for me?” Kohari asked.
Walking toward the back door, he felt Kakashi’s presence behind him as he stepped onto the patio. His mother was quite proud of and particular about her little herb garden. Iruka scanned the plants for the correct one, carefully snapping the leaves close to the bottom from the stem off. Feeling hands on his waist when he stood, Iruka turned around, a smile breaking out as arms encircled his waist.
“I know we’ve only been here for fifteen minutes, but I hope you’re enjoying yourself,” Iruka said.
“I am, but relax,” Kakashi instructed, “You’re nervous. Is it because I’m here?”
“Yeah. I’ve never brought anyone home before and don’t know what to expect or how to act,” he confessed, “I’m afraid that I’m going to mess up or my parents will say something that’ll freak you out and then I never hear from you again.”
“You’re not getting rid of me that easily,” Kakashi said, feathering his lips across Iruka’s, “I want to know everything about you. That includes getting to know your parents. You don’t know how happy I am to be here. When time cooperates, we’ll visit my uncle. I’d love for you to meet him.”
“That sounds wonderful,” Iruka said, resting his hands on Kakashi’s shoulder and kissing him lightly, “We better get back inside. Mom will lecture me about how herbs start wilting within six seconds.”
“Do they wilt that fast?”
“I have no idea, but she will,” Iruka replied, grinning at him.
Iruka helped his mother make the meal, but Kakashi was refused when he offered to pitch in. He was relegated to a kitchen chair as was Ikkaku. The topic of discussion was Kakashi’s profession and how he spent his free time. Iruka turned around to order his parents to stop grilling Kakashi but the understanding look from his partner imparted that he was fine with the conversation.
“This is delicious,” Kakashi said when the salad was served, “Your dressing puts my best efforts to shame.”
“Oh, you’re just saying that, dear,” Kohari said with a smile, “Do you like to cook?”
“Only if I’m cooking for someone else. It loses its appeal when it’s just me,” Kakashi answered.
“He’s a fantastic cook, Ma,” Iruka chimed in, “He made an amazing lasagna recently. The dressing was full of flavor but light.”
“It was from a mix,” Kakashi reminded him.
“We had a cookout this past weekend and he grilled steaks,” Iruka continued, “The marinade was to die for and they tasted great. Sorry, Dad, but I liked his better.”
“He’s grillmaster for the next barbecue we have,” Ikkaku stated.
“Just let me know when and where,” Kakashi said with a smile.
Kohari set the main course on the table, letting everyone serve themselves. Waiting until plates were full, Kakashi closed his eyes upon his first bite of chicken parmigiana. He gushed about how succulent the chicken was and the robustness of the sauce. Iruka could tell his mother was basking in his praises, her eyes squinting due to her wide grin. She promised to make the dish the next time he joined them for dinner. Kakashi thanked her, telling her that he would love it.
They relaxed in the living room with glasses of wine after dinner was put away and the kitchen tidied. Naruto was brought up since Kohari was curious about how he was doing. Iruka thought it amusing since the teen had visited earlier in the week, but his mother had adopted him as her own grandchild and was always curious about his well-being. Iruka told her about the English paper he was helping Naruto with the next day and his basketball game the upcoming Tuesday. Kakashi suggested that she watch the game since it was at home court, dismissing her excuse that she didn’t want to intrude on anyone’s time since she wasn’t family. When Kakashi said the games were open to the public and Naruto would appreciate the support from a loved one, she promised to hitch a ride with Iruka.
Iruka thought he was going to choke on his wine when his mother asked Kakashi about his family. It dawned upon him that he never told her about his parents to avoid any awkwardness. Kakashi took it in stride though, sighing softly as he swirled the wine in his glass.
“My mother died when I was a baby. My father passed when I was four,” Kakashi said, “I was taken in by an uncle. He didn’t have any experience with children, but it was never boring living with him. He was so eccentric and fun. I wish I had been brought up by my parents, but the way he raised me and life lessons he taught me helped form me into the man I am today. I wouldn’t trade it for the world.”
“I’m sorry for your loss,” Kohari said quietly, “It sounds like you have a wonderful upbringing regardless.”
“I did. I visit him when I can but it’s not enough,” Kakashi said, smiling at her, “I have to thank you for your son also. You raised such a compassionate and sympathetic man. I’ve never met anyone as in-tune with others while being humorous and sassy as well.”
Iruka felt a blush climb up his neck as Kakashi sang his praises by complimenting his parents for the gift that Kakashi declared he was. The admission from his partner made tears well in his eyes, his heart flutter with the growing love he felt for him. He never expected anyone to speak about him like that, Iruka taking a shaky breath and grinning when Kakashi turned his head.
“You’re going to make me cry because of your sweet words,” Iruka whispered.
“It’s the truth. I like to give credit where credit’s due,” he said, leaning forward and kissing Iruka’s cheek.
“You two are adorable together,” Kohari pointed out.
“He makes it easy,” Kakashi said, tucking stray hairs behind Iruka’s ear and smiling gently.
Iruka and Kakashi said their goodbyes since the movie they wanted to see started in forty-five minutes. Kakashi thanked them for the wonderful time and how honored he was to meet them, Kohari extending an open invitation to join them for dinner every other Wednesday as well. The acceptance and approval from Iruka’s mother meant the world to him, Kakashi telling her that he’d be there as long as work allowed. Ikkaku shook his hand and added what a fine young man he was as well as how he looked forward to knowing him better. After a handshake from Ikkaku and hug from Kohari, Kakashi stood by the front door while Iruka gave his parents hugs.
“I love your parents. They’re genuine and show what they’re feeling,” Kakashi said once they were in the car, “I haven’t had much of that in my life.”
“If you’re going to hang around them, you’ll get used to it. You think that’s bad? Wait until Naruto is added to the mix,” Iruka said.
“How is that bad?”
“My mom dotes over him and Dad asks him to relive every moment from his last basketball game,” Iruka replied, “Naruto’s very animated.”
“I believe that,” Kakashi said, chuckling before lifting Iruka’s hand and kissing the palm, “I’m glad you asked me to join you. I know it was your mom’s idea, but you could have brushed it off. I know you were nervous, but I loved every minute I was there. I can’t wait to visit them again.”
“I know my mom is going to call me early tomorrow and rave about how polite and kind you were,” Iruka said, Kakashi laughing at his prediction.
“You’ll have to take notes and share with me,” Kakashi said, his laugh stronger when his partner scowled at him.
“I’ll let you know the gist of the conversation,” Iruka said, “Now about this movie that I want to see.”
Talking about the highlights of the movie that he had heard, Iruka couldn’t help but think how happy he was that the time with his parents had ended on a fantastic note.
“You can choose the next movie. That one was awful,” Iruka said when they were parked in Kakashi’s driveway.
“It wasn’t that bad. It had some redeeming qualities,” Kakashi said.
“Name one,” Iruka said, raising a brow when Kakashi remained silent, “It was disastrous.”
“You’re the one that said it,” he said, grinning when Iruka glared at him, “You’re cute when you’re trying to look angry.”
“Genma said I look like the most cheerful character on TV on a bad day,” Iruka revealed, “Not very scary at all.”
“If they’re cute I’ll agree,” Kakashi said, smiling when he chuckled, “Thanks again for this. I had a lot of fun. Your mom and dad are great. I can tell you got the best from both of them.”
“Wait until you see the worst. You might change your mind about how cute I am,” Iruka teased.
“Can’t be that bad,” Kakashi said, taking a deep breath, “I should head inside. I can hear Bisuke and Pakkun barking. If Bull starts howling, someone’s likely to call the cops.”
“I understand,” Iruka said with an amused chuckle, “Tuesday?”
“Yep, but I would like to take you out for lunch on Monday if you’re not too busy,” he responded, “I have two appointments and then I’m done for the day.”
“I’d love that,” Iruka said, shifting in his seat and smiling softly, “Thanks for not freaking out and ditching me. It means a lot to me.”
“You’re not getting rid of me that easily,” Kakashi reminded him, leaning forward and kissing him for a few moments, “Good night, Iruka. Sweet dreams and sleep well.”
Watching Kakashi as he got out of the car, Iruka took a deep breath and counted every blessing that brought him the miracle that was Kakashi.