Archive of Our Own

As he laid on the water surface, his breath evens with relief and he succumbs to sleep.
He did it.
Naruto barely did, but he had knocked Sasuke out, stopping him from leaving any further. He could feel the phantoms of hands picking him up as his conscious faded from the world into that of another, much more peaceful one. His ears registered the last thing before sleep stole him.
“You did it, Naruto”

•~•

“What is taking so long? Shouldn’t he be here by now? And where, might I add, are the ninja I sent to retrieve him?” Orochimaru said, voice littered with fury.

“It seems like he has been stopped and taken back to the leaf village.”

“What- how did they have time to send all those ninjas after them?”

“I believe they were able to assemble a team of 4 genin and one chunin soon after they left the village.”

“They were defeated by such low ranking ninja, how pathetic. But Sasuke should have been able to continue on his own, they wouldn’t have been able to defeat him too.”

“It seems like the 9 tails jinchuriki, Naruto, was able to defeat Sasuke himself, even after he unlocked a new sharingan and using his stage two curse mark.”

“That shouldn’t be possible, that boy wouldn’t be strong enough for that. It seems like we underestimated his power. He is incredibly strong.. maybe we chose the wrong vessel Kabuto.”

“What do you mean? You want Naruto now?”

“He has so much potential, and I can always take Sasuke’s eyes later if I want his sharingan.”

“How will he side with us? He clearly sees us as the enemy and he hates us. He would never willingly join us.”

“I don’t care how Kabuto, just make it happen.”

“… yes lord Orochimaru.”

~•~

When conscious found Naruto again, it was so bright, and his thoughts slowly found their way back to him. He saw Sakura next to him, she was crying and he remembered what happened. He sat up sharply, looking around.

“Sasuke! Where is he!”

Sakura let another tear roll down her cheek, smiling gently up to him, “You did it Naruto,” she whispered out softly, “He’s back.”

It hit him, he did it. He had never felt such a wave of relief roll over him, but it was soothing. He let his shoulders relax and he slipped down onto his bed again.

“Oh thank goodness, is he here at the hospital?”

“Yeah.. he’s in a private ward, no one’s allowed to see him at the moment.”

Naruto didn’t feel as good anymore, a pit pooling inside his stomach. He’s not allowed to see him.. what’s wrong then? He let it drop, falling into a light conversation with Sakura. It helped his mood slightly, yet he know he was going to see him.

He just had to wait a bit.

•~•

Moon light was all that lit his way as he crept through the halls of the hospital, heading to the restricted wing. All guests were gone, and most staff had left as well, making his trip all the easier.

He looked into the rooms, all empty until he made it to the very back of the hospital. He really shouldn’t be out of bed, but he was desperate to see if Sasuke was ok. His injuries stung as they slowly knitted themselves together.

The last room had a small curtain blocking the small window, leading him to open the door. The room was small, with a singular bed and a table with a slowly dying candle upon it. No windows and on the bed laid Sasuke, struggling against restrains on him. Upon seeing him, Sasuke tensed up and became scarily still.

Ignoring any chance that there could be staff around, he loudly began talking, “Sasuke! Im so glad I found you!”

“What? Here to gloat.” Sasuke spat, a scowl sticking to his face.

Naruto slowly crept closer to the bed. “Why would I be gloating? I’m here to see if you’re alright.”

“I’d be better if I left.”

He felt upset, yet he couldn’t really blame him, Naruto is sure that he that he was manipulated. Sighing, he got even closer. He stared at those bindings, he hated them.

As he reached his arm over, Sasuke tensed up, only to realise Naruto was releasing him.

“What are you doing Dobe? Why are you undoing them? Aren’t you scared I’ll try and leave again?”

He simply shook his head and raised his eyes to meet Sasuke, brilliant blue meeting cold black.

“I don’t like the idea that you would be forced here. Maybe now that you’re back, you’ll have more time to reconsider leaving. And will stay.”

The smile that makes the sun envious meets him, and Sasuke can’t help but admire his warmth, his raw beauty. He hates to admit it, but he is reconsidering. He wants to leave, to get stronger, but Naruto makes it so hard when his kindness fills some empty void inside him, one that will never be satisfied without him.

He turns his head slightly away, but makes no move to leave. Naruto gets up from his bed side to look around for a moment. There is nothing else there, so he sits himself down on the floor besides Sasuke.

Leaning over the bed, he watches as the boy tries (and fails) to get comfortable on the floor.

“Why are you lying down there?”

“There’s no other room for me in here, so I need to sleep somewhere.”

“Sleep? Here?” Sasuke questions, a subconscious blush rises on his face at the thought of Naruto putting himself through discomfort, just to be near him.

“Of course!” His dobe replied, “I don’t want to leave you here in the darkness by yourself, especially when I just got you back.”

“Idiot.” Sasuke whispers as he lies back into his uncomfortable hospital bed.

The door opens again, this time to a nurse entering.

“There you are Naruto-Kun! I was looking all over for you! You’re not allowed in here, you need to get back to you’re room to rest up and heal.”

Something ugly curled into Sasuke’s gut, the idea of his light leaving makes him upset. He wants to curl around it and never let another see it. It’s selfish, but he hates the idea that some random woman is trying to take Naruto from him.

As Naruto sits up, so does Sasuke. The nurse only just realising Sasuke wasn’t restrained anymore gasped.

“Fine I’m going, sorry to be a pain to you miss.” His sweet Naruto says, he’s too kind for his own good, apologising for nothing when someone is taking him away.

As Naruto walks over, he’s oblivious to Sasuke getting up as well until his arm is grabbed, dragging him backwards. He stumbles and watches as Sasuke attacks the nurse. He goes as fast as he can to drag him off of her. Sasuke struggles in Naruto’s arms as the nurse scrambles backwards, horrified.

“Sasuke, what the heck.” As if a switch was flicked, Sasuke softens, curling around Naruto.

“Sorry Naruto.”

“Don’t apologise to me! Apologise to her.”

“…” Sasuke remains quiet, tightening his grip on the blonde.

Sighing, Naruto proceeds to apologise to the women instead, her quickly asking if he wanted her to bring another bed into the room, which Naruto agrees to.

Both make it back to their beds, Naruto soon feel asleep, whereas Sasuke stayed awake for a long while, staring at him.

If only he was stronger, he could have left. He would be with Orochimaru and Kabuto and he might never see Naruto again. The thought left him gripping the sheets, he can’t believe he was such a fool. He can always get stronger, he can’t always have Naruto. He already knew that Hyuga girl had a crush on him, heck probably that Hyuga guy too, and he’s sure that psycho sand ninja did too, as Naruto had that effect on people.

He couldn’t bare the thought of losing Naruto, his idiot, the only light in his dark life, his innocent love. He didn’t want to leave anymore, he couldn’t even bare the idea of Naruto being in a different room from him, let alone nations apart.

Naruto was HIS, and he had every intention to make sure people knew that.

~•~

When Naruto woke up, he crept out of Sasuke’s room back to his own. He’s glad he came, but he didn’t want to worry any more of the hospital staff. He slides back into his room, sitting back on his bed and watching the sun rise over the houses.

A disturbance graces outside and he jumps back, watching someone land on the window. He sees that insufferable face, immediately recognising it as Kabuto. That evil snake, he was back to take Sasuke again, wasn’t he!

Naruto tenses but instead of moving, Kabuto just stands there, looking Naruto over. The older offers a empty smile and steps inside, Naruto shuffling further away in his bed.

“Hello Naruto.” That annoying voice grates out, the blonde not trusting his friendly demeanour for a second.

“What do you want? Are you back for Sasuke?” Naruto seethed bitterly.

Kabuto led out a dry chuckle, devoid of any emotion, “No, rather I’m here to see you. You see-“

“I don’t care for what you have to say to me, I may be injured but I’ll still beat your ass,” He shouted, standing up into a combat position.

Kabuto stepped back, holding his hands out to make himself less threatening.

“Look I’m just trying to ask if you’d like to join lord Orochimaru.”

It was Naruto’s turn to laugh, absolutely shocked and disturbed by the request.

“Are you insane?! What gives you any idea that I’d ever join you scum!”

Kabuto really needed to think, unlucky for him, he watched as someone else arrived, turning around to see long, white, wild hair. Jiriya had arrived, not looking too happy either at Kabuto. He quickly made his escape as Jiriya tried to apprehend him. The slippery bastard got away, so he just admitted defeat and went to check on his student.

“Pervy Sage! Good timing, that weirdo was being crazy.” Of course, Naruto being Naruto, keep the tone light and effortless made his mood better. He couldn’t help but let out a fond sigh, moving away from the window over to his pupils bed.

“I see you’re doing better.” Jiraya says, Naruto returning with his cheeky grin he always gives. He presumed by now Naruto has already visited Sasuke, or at least left the room, so his healing is just as good as ever. As fine as his student is, he probably deserves a few days off before they get back to training anyways.

“Yeah, I feel great! I’m a bit tired though, I didn’t get too much sleep last night. And i could REALLY go for some ramen.”

“You should really try something other than ramen sometimes.”

“How about you try something other than perving on girls.”

“Touché.”

Conversation flows on for a while, but it was interrupted by heavy footfall quickly approaching. The door flies open, spooking Naruto thoroughly as he gives out a screech. Sasuke pants as he holds the door he threw open. As carefree as Jiraya looks, he’s is perfectly ready if Sasuke tries absolutely anything.

“Oh Naruto… there you are.” Sasuke says, calming down and awkwardly looking to the side. He walked to Naruto’s bed side, limping slightly.

“Sasuke, what are you doing here?”

“…when I woke up and didn’t see you there, i got nervous.” Naruto didn’t see it, but Jiraya definitely did, he could see the pink enveloping the Uchiha’s face. He didn’t know how to feel about this, but concern definately took root there.

“You’ve been acting so weird since you came back teme! I just came back to my room so the nurses knew where I was.”

Sasuke tensed slightly and his expression barely, but still definately, pinched. Again, Naruto didn’t notice. For as strong and surprising smart he is, he can never pick up these things. He just smiles as Sasuke “hn’s” at him.

Jiraya takes that as his queue to leave.

“Well Naruto, I gotta leave. Important business and all.” Naruto diverts his attention from Sasuke, which the other clearly doesn’t appreciate.

That leaves the two of them alone. As much as Sasuke wants to deny his feelings, he definitely couldn’t ignore how he felt when he realised Naruto wasn’t there. His heart dropped, leaving him feeling the worst he’s felt in a while. Rushing to where he sensed his chakra, he finds the dobe in his room (too far from Sasuke’s) and he calms slightly just being in the same room as him. He only fully relaxes after that old man leaves.

When Naruto’s attention is on him, he feels so warm, like the sun is here personally for him, lighting him up. It stays like this for a too short time period, (he wishes Naruto never had to be with anyone else, just Sasuke, only Sasuke) as a knock echos from the door.

Naruto calls them in, (of course he does, he’s too nice to tell them to go away) and the door opens. Sakura comes in, looking a bit tired and gloomy. She lights up as soon as she sees Sasuke, much to his disappointment.

“Sa-Sasuke! What are you doing here!” She exclaims running over to him. He can only scoff at her, pathetic. She comes here to see Naruto, yet all her attention is on him. Now he just doesn’t understand, why would a single person choose such a dark person over the literal sun. Maybe it’s because they’ve always had light, so they don’t cherish it like they do the darkness.

Either way, Sasuke is almost grateful she doesn’t try to steal his light from him, key word being almost. She’s still a pain. Sakura hugs his arms as tears roll down her face. She blabbers on about how she missed him and was so worried. Eventually she turns to Naruto.

“Thank you Naruto.”

“I promised I’d bring him back, believe it!” He said, his voice full of sunshine, Sasuke basked in it.

“I’m sorry about being so useless, but next time I won’t be! Oh! And I brought you something. For my gratitude.” She turns to her bag, pulling out a sealed cup of ramen. He can’t stop thanking her as he eats his treat with delight.

Sasuke subtle glares at her. As much as he likes seeing Naruto this happy, he wants to be the one to make him like that. Just the idea of sharing his light makes Sasuke want to kill her. He’s never been attached to Sakura, finding her insufferable at worst and barely tolerable at best. He would indulge in his fantasy if Naruto wasn’t so attached to her himself.

That stupid fox, he makes friends as easy as breathing, drawing them in like a moth to a harmless flame. Most of them though, frankly don’t deserve him. Sasuke probably doesn’t deserve Naruto himself, but he’s selfish in nature.

He didn’t even realise when, but Sakura was already leaving, something he is grateful for. Something he isn’t grateful for is when she promised more of his friends coming to visit later. More people to steal Naruto from him, great.

•~•

As they talk, another knock echos off the door. As Naruto once again calls them in, Gaara strolls inside the room, not even noticing Sasuke. The redhead only had eyes for Naruto. Despite his pale exterior, Sasuke could see the equally pale blush rising in his cheeks.

He grit his teeth as Gaara greeted Naruto, his tone completely different to last time. Not a trance of manic and all sweetness. Naruto fell for that disgusting voice, smiling sweetly up at him.

“Hey Gaara! What are you doing in the leaf village, I know you didn’t just come to check up on me.”

“I had came to help with the mission to retrieve Sasuke, we fought at different locations. I see you’re doing better though.”

“Yeah! I’m feeling great. I’ll be back on my feet tomorrow.”

“I never got to thank you from the last time we meet.” Gaara said, looking out the window shyly. Sasuke had to stop himself from full body scoffing at him. Of course he didn’t thank him, he was literally fighting Naruto.

“Thank me for what? I don’t think I did anything except hit you a bit.” Naruto chuckled out, and as much as Sasuke enjoyed it, he didn’t like how Gaara also softly smiled at it too.

“I’m thanking you for helping me see the light. I was consumed by darkness, not thinking myself worthy of love and only seeing myself as a vessel for death. You made me change for the better, and if you would have me, you could be my friend and continue to help me.” Gaara meet Naruto’s eyes, the fox entrapped by his words. Gritting his teeth Sasuke bit his cheek to stop himself from acting out.

Of course, Gaara only asked to be friends, but he knew that the redhead wanted to be so much more. It didn’t make him feel better knowing how his story felt so similar to his own. That Gaara sees Naruto as a sun as well, that someone is basking in his light. He wants to rip the boy to shreds, but it might not be a good idea in his condition.

“You don’t need to ask to be friends!” Naruto said, “I think you wanting to better yourself makes you my friend, especially if we’re on the same side now!”

“Thank you Naruto. You’re the kindest person I’ve ever met.” Gaara smiled at Naruto, only then glancing at Sasuke, his expression souring just looking at him, a mutual feeling in Sasuke as well.

“Who are you again.” Gaara’s tone was cold now, the question directed at the Uchiha. Of course, the redhead already knew who he was, but he didn’t care to let them know that.

“Sasuke Uchiha, we fought in the Chunin exams.”

“Must have forgotten, but we were on that mission to rescue you, so it must have been an easy match.” It barely stung, yet Sasuke was bloodthirsty at this point.

Gaara meanwhile, looked cold, unaffected. The only thing he liked about Sasuke was that he was pathetic enough to require Sand ninja to help, meaning he could visit Naruto. It was true, Gaara felt things towards Naruto that he’s felt towards no other, and he intents to feel it more, it’s warm. Not desert sweltering heat warm, but a more pleasant warm that makes you’re body shudder in delight.

He can’t help but try and feel it again. Naruto was the nicest person in existence, even after going through a life just like Gaara’s. If only he lived in Suna with him, then he wouldn’t have to deal with assholes like Uchihas, and he’d be able to see him more often.

The two boys fell into a icy staring match, and Naruto just sat there, incredibly confused over it. Breaking the tension was two more nurses coming into the room to run tests on Naruto. The boys backed away from the bed, and Sasuke was reluctantly escorted to his room. He wanted to stay so desperately, but the nurse promised to be done in a minute, and if it came back well, then he could be released that night.

Though the idea of leaving Naruto with Gaara infuriated him, that monster now had all the time he wanted to sweet talk Naruto. He grit his teeth for the billionth time today, and speed up to his room.

Inside waiting was Kakashi, idly sitting on the other bed whilst reading some dirty porno. He looked up at Sasuke and offered a smile, well as much of one with that mask on. Sasuke just looked away and headed for his bed.

“Hello Sasuke, I see you’re doing better.”

“…”

The nurse took some blood from his arm, letting it ooze into the needle. He could see in his peripherals Kakashi closing his book, walking over.

“I thought we had talked about this before you decided you were too good for the village and now must leave.”

“And now you’re lecturing me?” Sasuke rolled his eyes up to him coldly, but the other was used to his bullshit.

“Well if Naruto wasn’t so adamant on getting you back you would’ve left. I glad you’re here though. I’m guessing by you freely walking around the hospital you have decided to stay?”

“…yes. I won’t be leaving.”

Kakashi squinted his eyes to him, as well as raising an eyebrow, “may I know why you decided to stay instead of leaving at the countless times you could have?”

“No.”

The nurse finished cleaning up his arm and gave him the all clear to do as he pleases. Immediately he got up, ready to head back to Naruto. He felt jumpy without him, he doesn’t want to be away from him for a second more. This idea was formed before Kakashi began blocking the door.

“Hold it, we’re not done here. What’s got you so riled up? Is there somewhere you need to be?” Kakashi questioned, walked closer to Sasuke.

“It’s none of your business. Let me leave. Now.”

“Sasuke, I may not have known you for long, but I know when somethings wrong. I understand that you’re curse mark might have something to do with this, but you’ve been acting strangely. The Sasuke I know wouldn’t willingly leave the comfort of his lonesome to go see someone.”

Sasuke’s shoulders tightened, body completely ridged as he glared at Kakashi. What does he know? The only thing different about him is he’s willingly seeking out Naruto’s presence, instead of denying it and secretly hoping for Naruto to come. Kakashi did pick up on his behaviour though.

“So it is someone who is keeping you here. Who is it? Sakura? I didn’t think you were the type to obsess over someone, but I guess it makes sense.”

His glare hardened, and he didn’t want to deal with it for another minute. The thought that Sakura meant a single thing to Sasuke made him gag. He pushes past the older, who had left the door, making leaving a lot easier.

Luckily, he was able to depart without being stopped, or followed weirdly enough. He came back to Gaara and Naruto talking, with the redhead being too close to Naruto for his liking.

Naruto looked over immediately, smiling at him. Gaara remained staring dreamily up at Naruto, that asshole. Sasuke came over, pushing between the two. Gaara’s Sand flared behind him, not daring to move in risk of hitting Naruto too.

Sasuke asked about what the nurse told Naruto, to which the blonde said that if his own test came back well then he was set to leave that night. Maybe Sasuke could stay at Naruto’s for tonight, he knows the blonde is too nice to decline anyways.

Sasuke took over the conversation, leaving a fuming Gaara standing behind him without a single moment to speak to Naruto. Eventually the sand ninja took a hint that today wasn’t his moment to talk with Naruto, and he left. Sasuke let out a victorious smirk at him, to which Gaara returned a chilling glare.

Of course, Sasuke didn’t leave Naruto’s side, to which Kakashi watched from a bit away from the window. It’s obvious that Sasuke is infatuated with Naruto, but it’s not as innocent as it sounds. The white haired man has experienced the Uchiha clans’ famous possessiveness first hand from an old friend, but it was nothing like this.

Sasuke was colder, more desperate in his desire. Almost like he’s willing to do anything just to have the boy all to himself. It’s going to be very problematic to say the least, but if it doesn’t get worse, it could be manageable.

Though he’s not sure how Naruto will take it. Yes, the child is desperate for attention and always wants to be around people, the idiot doesn’t have the mental capacity to understand the lengths Sasuke would go to for him, and it just might cause trouble.

Trouble that he would be none the wiser to.

~•~

Being released from the hospital felt so good, Sasuke and himself exit and begin walking through the village. He was almost desperate for some ramen at this point, he made it his mission to get some asap. Sasuke didn’t appose so that was their first stop.

Naruto feasted on his ramen whilst Sasuke sat beside him, not ordering or eating anything and just watching him. He’s been super weird since he came back, a thought that Naruto began to think more often. But he shook this off.

As they exited, they headed for Naruto’s house. Whilst walking, they bumped in Hinata, who herself was with Neji. Naruto enthusiastically greeted them, to which Hinata started blushing brighter than a rose and Neji looked away from them.

They approach, to which Hinata offered a small hello.

“I see you’re doing better Neji! I was worried when I wasn’t allowed to see you, it makes me so glad that you’re ok.” Naruto said beaming up at the boy. Sasuke could see blush rise in his cheeks too.

“Thank you Naruto.” Neji replied, Sasuke hated how soft his voice sounded when it was directed at Naruto, “I’m glad you’re doing better as well. I wouldn’t have been able to defeat my opponent without you.”

“Huh?” Naruto cocked his head to the side in confusion, waiting for the other to continue.

“Well you’re words from the Chunin exams really stuck with me, and they empowered me to not give up, just like you didn’t when it came to the mission.”

Hinata was slowly regaining her composure, it was always weird in Naruto’s opinion how she always got like that. It made not a lick of sense to his mind. She took a final deep breath before looking up.

Her eyes met cold, black ones, daring her to say something. Sasuke glared at her, like she personally offended him. As fearsome as he was, she was confused as to why he was acting this way.

She gulped and looked at Naruto. He was smiling his dopey smile to Neji, whilst the other softly smiled back. She envied Neji in that way, how he always acted so cool no matter what. If only she could be like that, then talking to Naruto would be no issue. Instead, every time she see him, she’s reduced to a blushing mess.

“Naruto-Kun..” she whispered so softly, the boy didn’t even hear her, but she didn’t care. She was at a loss for words when it came to him. What could she say? Her mind fries just thinking about talking to him.

When Neji looked over to her, he frowned just as softly as he smiled to the blond.

“Well lady Hinata and I should be off. I hope you have a good night. Maybe we could have a training session together one time.”

Naruto nodded enthusiastically at this, he always loved training, especially with his friends, so he would take any chance to train with them.

Sasuke merely continued to glare as he lead Naruto away. He hated seeing his former classmates, as much as most had hated Naruto at one point or another, they never could hate such a bright person for long. Girls admired Sasuke’s aloofness, but that ‘charm’ can only go so far. If they realised he would not change for them, they would soon see that Naruto would always be there for them.

Not too many had realised this yet, the few were now competition to Sasuke, targets to eliminate in the pursuit of his dobe’s heart. If only it was as simple as murdering them all.

A silent sigh slipped from his lips, the Uchiha continued to lead Naruto away, the blonde following him with a bouncy step. Their fingers brush, and Sasuke almost thinks Naruto didn’t notice until their hands are entwined. The other is completely unaffected by this, not noticing it, but Sasuke does. His mind hyper focused on every ridge in Naruto’s perfectly sculpted hand, one that fits perfectly within his own.

Naruto swings their arms, Sasuke can feel his warmth flowing directly into him. He’s smiling more than he’s probably ever has in his life, looking into those blue eyes. Naruto looks straight ahead, focused on getting home and oblivious to Sasuke. His head stays forward, but Sasuke turns his head to look at Naruto, admiring everything about him. He wants to run his hands over those whiskers and feel how soft his skin is.

Naruto stops and it feels so sudden. Their hands unlatch as Sasuke steadies himself. He feels so cold, so far from his love. He already misses the contact and wants to hold him forever. He could never get bored of staring into his eyes. Naruto turns his head and focuses back on him.

The Uchiha coughs awkwardly, turning away with a light blush, it being too dark to be seen anyways. Naruto beams at him and goes to open his door. The blonde says his goodbye but as he closes the door, it catches on Sasuke’s hand.

Letting out a noise of confusion, he looks up. Sasuke looks slightly panicked, staring right back at him. Almost if he realised he showed too much of his thoughts, he blinks off the expression.

“Do you- do you mind if I stay here tonight. I-I don’t really want to be alone..”

Naruto softens and opens the door for him. Sasuke saunters inside, looking around. It’s actually, he realises, his first time seeing Naruto’s home. It’s empty, yet still feels so cramped.

Despite how tired the blonde appeared, he quickly threw on his pjs and threw his jacket, shirt and pants into the sink and quickly scrubbed them, cleaning them slightly. He then hummed, an indication he was finished and Naruto hung then up over a line to dry out more. Whilst Naruto fixated himself on the task, Sasuke, just watched from the kitchen.

He huffed then and looked up at the raven haired boy. Naruto gestured with his head to follow, his hair flowing and framing his face as the blonde took off his headband and placed it at a side table. The blonde rolls out a mat for him besides his own bed, before falling on it.

Sasuke could almost chuckle at how tired the boy suddenly got. He dramatically yawns before hugging the sheets close. It’s strange how he’s already fallen asleep, so Sasuke quietly sneaks to his mat.

He doesn’t get much sleep, rather opting to staring at Naruto, his hair glowing in the soft stream of moonlight glimmering into the room. He looks etherial under it, he can’t help the hand that raises up to brush his hair from his face, revealing such a peaceful one at that.

This is how Sasuke wishes things were forever, just Naruto and himself. No one to steal his light from him, and no one to abuse Naruto’s kindness.

The boy was too kind for his own good. Maybe that’s why Sasuke was there, to protect him from those people looking to extort it and hurt the blonde.

After all, Sasuke didn’t care what he did or who he hurt, as long as he kept his light safe and HIS.

•~•

Kabuto, meanwhile, was kind of freaking out. He couldn’t think of a plan. After all, how was he supposed to sway the most unshakeable person to his side. Not to mention the fact that with the Akatsuki after him, he will be well guarded.

Orochimaru won’t change his mind easily, after all, Kabuto was certain that he wanted Sasuke with absolutely no compromise, but that changed. He’s got to find a way, somehow.

If only it was anyone else, he would have an easier time convincing them.

Maybe he can pick around and find a sore spot, one he can dig in and let fester. Something that would make him question things, make everything less black and white.

This was going to be such a pain.

~•~

Gaara was like many, not that he knew that. His world was shrouded in darkness, and it felt like there was no way it would change. That no matter what he had to continue to kill kill kill.

So when that light finally found him, it was jarring. He had stumbled through his feelings for Naruto for a while. At first he hated that he was stronger, that the one thing he was good at wasn’t even enough.

Then he felt relief. He saw through the crystalline eyes to a boy who suffered like him, but was so bright. He felt hope he could be like that one day. The more he thought that, the more improbable that was. He didn’t need to be light, but he still craved it.

He feel in love with the idea of being with Naruto. Having the blonde hovering over him constantly, having gaping silences filled with his easy banter. His heart felt open, but he was hesitant to let even Naruto in. So when he had the chance to see him again, he didn’t even pretend to refuse.

Just seeing the boy made him feel safe, and so warm. He knew it would be rough leaving after that. To return to an empty house in Suna, without a joyous boy at his side. Of course, all good things came with a dark underbelly. He had to come to Konaho because of Sasuke leaving, he just didn’t expect the boy to be so, attached to Naruto, even after trying to kill him.

Sasuke is cold and dark, completely opposite to Naruto. Supposedly, he was popular, with all the girls falling for him. That Gaara didn’t believe, but it was a good thing at least. Maybe it meant Naruto didn’t have many who loved him, especially not like Gaara did.

If only Sasuke could leave, then it would all be better. Not having Naruto’s light be dampened by some cloud. His feelings towards the blonde felt even more concrete, he truely was in love.

When Sasuke was taken away, he felt like a weight was lifted. Naruto watched as he left, concern on his face, before brightening and looking back at him. He could never tire of him.

As the nurse drew blood from his arm, Naruto cheerily talked about everything and absolutely nothing at all. When Gaara finally spoke, it was after he worked up some courage.

“Naruto, tomorrow after you’re released, would you like to join me on a trip in town, you know, show me around a bit.”

The blonde giggled, “it’s not like it’s your first time here, don’t know much else to show you.”

“It’s different when you’re focused on murder plans rather than sightseeing. But it would be nice to spend some time together, alone. You can show me that ramen place you love a lot.”

“Only if you pay!” The blonde beamed at him, the nurse leaving with the little vial of blood to be tested. Naruto blinked and an idea snatched his head, whipping him to look through the side table’s drawers.

“If you’re coming to hang out tomorrow, I should probably give you my address, so you can find me.” Naruto exclaimed as he triumphantly pulled out a pen. He grabbed Gaara’s arm so gently as he scribbled down the address.

The touch sent shockwaves through his
arm, the touch being so warm. He’s used to heat, but this isn’t like the deserts in Suna. Plus just how much care Naruto held him with felt amazing, never has anyone treated him like this. His sand flickered around, grazing over Naruto’s arm like an insect’s feelers. The blonde giggled from the tickling sensation.

The grip was gone too quickly, but they continued talking anyways. Gaara couldn’t help but look into his eyes like they were the most precious gemstone in the land. It had maybe been a minute since when Sasuke stormed back in. He could sense his bad mood, but he didn’t take his eyes off of Naruto.

When Sasuke sauntered over, he pushed past Gaara, leaving the boy to slightly stumble back, away from Naruto. He could see the smirk on the Uchiha’s face, it pissed him off. His sand went from lolling gently around his body to flaring up like a wild fire. It didn’t move closer, however, as Naruto was right beside the offender.

Despite his sand almost having a mind of
It’s own, it knew not to touch Naruto. Maybe it had taken a liking to the boy as well, it sure seemed to be happy with him.

After standing quietly for a few moments, trying to rein in his anger, he said goodbye and left. Slowly, he walked back to the rooms he and his siblings were staying in. It was around midday, so they most likely wouldn’t be home yet. The other two had been asked to help out and teach for a bit, as they were short staffed. Gaara wasn’t asked himself, but he had a suspicion that he would scare the kids anyways.

As expected, it was quiet inside when he got back. He sat for a while, milling over his conversation with Naruto in his head. It didn’t feel real, to have someone be so kind to him, it was still taking a while for Gaara to process it.

He liked to imagine what it would have been like if Naruto grew up in the Sand Village, would he still have been so kind to him or would he have been like everyone else. The selfish part of him was sure that he would be kind in every life he lives.

The door slides open to his siblings arriving back from their temporary jobs. Something must have given away his excitement, as Temari smirks down at him.

“What’s got you in such a good mood, I don’t think I’ve ever seen you this happy.”

Gaara scowls slightly at her and looks away. He was more than happy, he was ecstatic to be with Naruto tomorrow. If he had to leave in a few days, he would like to spend as much time with his love as possible. He selfishly wishes that Naruto could come back to Suna with him, but the reasonable part shoos away that thought.

“I’ve arranged to meet with Naruto tommorow, so don’t expect me home until later.” Gaara replied in an even tone, keeping the thoughts of what they’d do till later.

“Oh that’s the nine tails one! The one you won’t shut up about! Ooh got a date have you-“ Kankurō said.

Tamari quickly interrupted him, with a small smack at his head, knocking his hood into his face fully, “well, have fun, and make sure you two are safe.”

Gaara offers a small, reserved smile with a nod, standing up and heading to his room, giving his siblings room to enjoy their time.

He could barely sleep, thinking over every way he could imagine them enjoying themselves. Some slightly lewd thoughts force themselves in, but he ignores them.

Mostly.

Maybe he could get one kiss before he leaves. If he can charm his way into Naruto’s heart, then they may part with a tender kiss.

Now if only he knew how to exactly do that.

•~•

He finds a small flower on his way, so he brings it with him. It was early, but he couldn’t wait a second longer. He paces down the road, knowing exactly where to go. He had woken up earlier that night, finding his way there and back to try clear his head.

The road turns into his apartment and he climbs to his part, seeing the metal door stare back at him. He gulps quietly and knocks, a clear pattern of three even ones all in time with one another. He even overthought his knocking, as stupid as it sounds. He hears light footsteps, too light his mind fuels him.

The door cracks open and he puts on a smile, quickly replaced by a shocked neutral. Why the heck was he here?

~•~

Sasuke woke up to a stupid knock at Naruto’s door. He wondered who it was, probably Sakura or that annoying old man training Naruto. He looked over and saw Naruto still very much asleep. He didn’t want to wake him, so he crept over instead.

He can just shoo them off anyways.

When he got to the door he was equally as surprised as Gaara was to see each other. How did this dipshit know where Naruto lived? His face went cold and his tone was icier.

“What are you doing here?”

The other met his gaze flawlessly, unaffected by the tension, fearless.

“I arrange with Naruto prior to hang out with him for today, but I could ask the same for you, why are you here?”

Because Naruto was his life, his light and he couldn’t bare being away from it. Because Naruto mattered more than getting revenge or getting stronger. He mattered more than his own life and he is more precious than the sun.

But Gaara definitly didn’t get one of those reasons.

“I had stayed the night with Naruto. He never mentioned having plans.”

Gaara looked past him, into the room. He looked disappointed.

“Where is Naruto?” He proceeded to ask.

Sasuke crossed his arms and lent against the door frame. He considered lying, ridding of him or simply murdering him where he stood for encroaching on his time with Naruto. But lying had no benefit for him anyways.

“He’s still asleep, he never wakes this early, even for missions.”

“Well I shall stay till he wakes then.”

He grit his teeth, the audacity of this asshole. Gaara let himself in and looked around further. He looked upset at the sight, one of the only sentiments they share. Naruto lives in a dump, only thing he even has is ramen, the only food that isn’t expired.

The Uchiha residence is much better. He will one day whisk the boy away to there, he’ll be awestruck at the sight of a full kitchen, let alone everything else. He inwardly chuckled at the thought.

Gaara places a little flower on the counter, an ugly little thing, practically a weed. His pale fingers brush over the petals for a moment before moving into the bedroom. Sasuke angrily stomped after him. It’s weird, the guy just kind of stands there for a moment, looking at Naruto who’s currently sprawled across his bed. It’s like he’s in a trance, eyes too soft for the kind of murderer he is. It makes his skin itch at the thought of him being near the sunshine boy.

Just as quickly as he had stopped, he walked away from the room to sit at the little table. Everything was small in Naruto’s house, much to Sasuke’s discontentment. He could practically stand in the middle of the room and touch both walls without moving his feet. How the boy lives like this every day is a question still unanswered.

Sasuke just stood by the kitchen counter and Gaara sat at the table. The silence was thick with impatience and dislike, but neither wanted to bring it up. Sasuke could hear the grumpy yawn from his room, and the pitter patter of feet scurrying to the kitchen for food. Naruto stumbled out in his little night gown and sleepily blinked over at Sasuke then Gaara. He looked adorable.

His eyes lit up when he remembered his plans for that day. He quickly squeaked out a, “Oh sorry Gaara! I’ll be ready to head out in a minute!” And like that he ran back to his room to get ready.

Sasuke scoffed slightly, eyes sliding off to look at a very pleased Redhead. It ticked him off to no end. How dare Gaara just come into the blonde’s home and just… just demand his presence. Worse, steal him for Sasuke. He didn’t trust Gaara one bit, he already knew he wouldn’t leave Naruto’s side today, but that may cause issue. As much as Naruto liked him, Sasuke just knows he doesn’t feel the same way as he did for the blonde.

If he wouldn’t leave then Naruto would shout at him and pout. He’d fight him and get upset at him. He didn’t want that, so he’ll ask but no matter the answer he’d tag along.

Whether that be from the shadows or not.

They’re a familiar friend, one he always comes back to, no matter how bright the sun shines.

•~•

Naruto’s vision is still slightly blurry -like glass frosted over- from just waking up. His brain didn’t work well in the morning. He brushes out some knots from his blonde locks whilst wiggling into his usual clothes. As he left, he tied on his headband and met Gaara and Sasuke back in the main room.

“Sorry about the wait!” He exclaimed sheepishly, rubbing the back of his neck. Gaara shook his head and stood from the table. Sasuke scoffed just enough for Naruto to hear, his eyes flicking over to the temperamental ravenette. They made eye contact and Sasuke’s eyes softened and he turned away.

He looked back at Gaara, who had gone over and picked up a small flower. Holding it out, Naruto softly grabbed it. It was a common flower around the village, but he still acted like it was more precious than gold, sniffing it before lacing it into his necklace. The red head looked incredibly happy by this and Naruto beamed up at him.

“Well, shall we go then?” He said, eyes squinted slightly from his grin.

“Of course, lead the way.”

He headed for the door, grabbing some keys before finally turning back to Sasuke. His eyes were harsh whilst he was glaring at them, but when Naruto’s blue eyes meet his gaze, he softened again.

“Sasuke, please lock up if you’re leaving. I don’t mind if you stay, I’ll be back at sunset so don’t wait for me.”

He waved before turning back around and walking off with Gaara.

He knew the village better, so he led the way. They were fairly slow paced, but it was nice. The sun had risen just barely above the height of the mountains, but it was still early. He saw people opening up their shops and rolling out their doormats. He couldn’t say he’d even seen it this early.

The two walked in content silence, their hands occasionally brushing. On one of these times, Naruto looked over, seeing Gaara’s hand jittering over, as if debating reaching out. He inwardly chuckled but reached out. He laced his fingers in between the other’s cold, pale hands.

He kept his eyes forward as he felt eyes look over. He practically forgot they were holding hands the entire time they walked. As more people started to wake up and come outside, he felt uneasy, but kept that to himself. It would be rude to be scared of his own people in front of Gaara so he kept up his cool smile.

They made it to his absolute favourite Ramen place and pushed the redhead through the curtains and they sat down. Everything about it sent joy through him. The smell; heavenly. The atmosphere; Devine.

He unlaced their hands as he sat down and called out for Ichiraku. They ate peacefully, Naruto scoffing down as much as he feasibly could whilst Gaara slowly ate his bowl. Naruto talked inbetween bites to him, the blond’s eye sparkling bright.

Gaara felt eyes piercing his head, the back of it alight with the sensation of being watched. He leaned closer to Naruto, feeling it intensify, if by the slightest bit. He enjoyed the feeling of people watching him and Naruto. Together. They could be jealous but those people’s glares can’t change who Naruto is excitedly dragging around the leaf village.

Naruto, after letting out a satisfied sigh, was about to pay, before Gaara handed over the money.

“You don’t have to pay! I have some coupons it’s-“

“Please, let me treat you to this. As a thanks for today, and what is to come.”

He looked as though to argue before cutely pouting, then Naruto giggled and grabbed his hand again, dragging him off.

They had ended up near the academy, everyone was inside or on a mission, so that left the courtyard surprisingly empty. He saw that same swing, one that plagued his mind every time he’s on a mission, maybe he should get that checked out…

“Gaara look!” He pointed to it, pulling the redhead over excitedly, “this is the swing I use to play on a lot when I was younger.”

Gaara ran a hand over the chipped wooden seat before Naruto sat down, gazing back at him. He took the memo and began gently swinging him. He laughed out at the familiar feeling of wind gushing past his head as the speed gradually picked up. He didn’t want to let this feeling be replace with that loneliness that always plagued him. No, there were always good times he had here. It’s not just that.

Gaara lets out a breathy laugh behind him before standing on the back of the seat. Its old ropes creaked with strain, yet held the boys as they swung together. Gaara felt something whizz past him before he lost his balance, tumbling backwards off the swing and hitting his head on the grassy ground.

“Ahh Gaara! Are you alright?!” Naruto was there in an instant, checking to see if he was alright, his face so close to Gaara’s that all he could focus on was his plush lips that were being nibbled on in worry.

He reached forwards to tuck a stray piece of blonde hair behind his ear, sitting up from where he laid. Naruto was looking him over still, but Gaara’s gaze was off in the distance, where a rouge kunai was imbedded in a tree. One notably not there before, still shaking from impact.

Seems they were being trailed after all, and if the stale air had anything to say, than this bloodlust on the wind is from a certain duck butt.

“Naruto, I swear I’m alright, just lost my balance is all.” He lied, standing up and pulling the blonde up as well.

“Oh thank goodness, I’d hate if you had gotten hurt when I’m suppose to be looking after you.” He sighed in relief, sagging and resting his head against Gaara’s shoulder.

“Maybe we should continue on our tour? Seems like we are unwanted here.” The red head said, and Naruto didn’t pick up on exactly who he really was referring to.

“Ok!” He giggled to himself, and it made any lasting pain disappear in a flash, “I should show the main shopping strip there’s a really cool-“

And he proceeded to ramble on for the next two heavenly hours. God, it was the best time he’s ever had, just listening to Naruto talk, attention solely on him. It made his stomach feel like a gymnastics competition and his heart beat faster than a stampede of yaks.

It almost felt surreal.

So strange to feel this good, that when they made it to the training grounds in the forest, he realised he never wanted this to stop.

“Naruto.”

He stopped, to which the blonde- who had walked a bit away before realising that Gaara wasn’t following anymore- looked back at him with a confused and adorable expression.

“What’s up Gaara?” He questioned, and Gaara took a step toward, eyes ablaze with determination.

“Naruto, come back with me to-“ he started before being interrupted.

“Naruto!” Sasuke said from behind, prompting the boy to turn his back on Gaara to look at the raven haired boy.

“Sasuke?!” He said in a shocking tone, noting the boy’s heavy panting and hair slightly less perfect. He had sweat beading on his eyes were alight with the sharingan, wide and panicked.

“What do you want Sasuke?” Gaara spat from behind, walking until he was shoulder to shoulder with Naruto. The worry turned to anger in Sasuke’s face, his red eyes spinning slightly in rage.

“Naruto, let’s go.”

“Hu-huh??” Naruto gasped out, confusing riddling both his tongue and his expression.

“Let’s go Naruto.” He bit out harsher, trying to shove Gaara away.

“No, we’re spending the day together, so how bout you piss off Sasuke.” Gaara said, pushing Sasuke right back.

“No, you don’t get to steal my Naruto away from me.” He growled, both of them too absorbed in their fight over Naruto, that they didn’t notice said boy wander off after seeing the coupon in his pocket fly out and away from him, further into the forest.

“Yours? Oh how bold you are Uchiha. Need I remind you that it 48 hours prior you were trying to kill Naruto for getting in your way of becoming a traitor to the Leaf village.”

“He’s still mine. He’s always been mine and he will stay that way for as long as I’m here to protect him from psychopaths like you.”

“At least I’ve had time to change my mind, if you weren’t so pathetic, you would have killed Naruto without another thought, tell me, why the fuck do you deserve him?”

“Like you’re any better,” Sasuke spat, picking a kunai from his pouch into his hand, “You tried to kill the entire village. You’re lucky Naruto is the most forgiving person on this planet to even let you breathe the same air as him like you deserve it.”

“If you really want to talk about being deserving of his presence,” Gaara said, sand flailing out behind him like spindly legs, “then you should know that Naruto wishes to be in my presence, but you are selfish, Uchiha. You demand it like he’s already yours.”

“What’s there not to get. He is mine, sand nin, not yours. And I won’t let you steal my light from me, bitch.”

“Maybe you should ask Naruto that before ‘claiming’ it as you are, right Narut-“ Gaara said, looking around for the blonde only to realise he was not there anymore.

“Shit! Thanks to your useless prattling, Naruto has gotten himself lost!” Sasuke seethed, storming away, “I’m not done with you yet, prick!” He called back behind him.

~•~

Naruto’s really done it this time!

In his most important chase for his Ramen voucher, he got himself lost in the forest. He clicks his tongue in annoyance, looking around for anything familiar. He’s already forgotten which way he came from, how’s he suppose to get back?

Sakura was always the one good with directions, heck even mister perfect Sasuke knew where he was going at all times. And here Naruto is, lost probably 15 minutes away from the village yet he doesn’t even know where to start looking!

He grumbled to himself as he tries to think. Usually that doesn’t really go too well though.

“Seems you are a bit… lost there Naruto.” That slimy and utterly annoying voice rang out, making his mood drop significantly.

“Kabuto, what do you want? I’m kinda in the middle of something right now.”

“Yeah, the forest, even I could figure that one out.” He said, dropping from the tree he was on to slink up to Naruto. Instinctively, he began gathering chakra in his palm, though he knew he would need a shadow clone to actually finish it.

“I’ll repeat myself because clearly snakes don’t have ears. What do you want, why are you here?”

Kabuto seemed hurt, but it all felt mocking.

“Why are you so damn protective of that village? What have they ever done to deserve someone as brilliant as you?”

Naruto felt himself splutter for a moment, kinda dumbfounded at Kabuto. What the heck was he on about?

“I mean, they’ve treated you like dirt throughout your whole life, and you think that will change if you become Hokage? When you get strong enough to be in the running, the village would become too fearful of you to let you walk around freely jinchuriki.”

“You liar! I-“

“It’s a hard balance between being seen as useless and beneath them, to being a threat to the village, one they have to neutralise before you let it loose. They don’t trust you.”

“Shut! Shut. Up!” Naruto said , bring his hands up to his hair and backing away from Kabuto.

“Then tell me I’m wrong. Prove to me that they care for you!” He taunted, gesturing wide with a manic grin.

Naruto felt something within him shake, an angry, red chakra seeming to flow thick through the air like smog.

“I don’t want to hear it! I will become hokage, they- they will like me- will respect me then!”

“Why should they? They don’t now, why should you have to prove anything to them?”

“Shut up you slimy little snake! I don’t want to hear whatever you’re trying to peddle, so pack it up, bastard!” Naruto said, summoning shadow clones to cover his back thoroughly.

“Seems like my time’s up anyways,” Kabuto said as he gazed up at the sky, it just beginning to reach sunset.

He let his clones be released as he watched Kabuto race away into the forest. He felt his knees collapse to the floor, eyes glued to where his silhouette once was. His arms came up to hug himself, seeking some sort of comfort.

Because he was wrong, he is wanted. People- some people like him. Sasuke did, so does Gaara, and Pervy Sage, and granny Tsunade, and Kakashi-sensei did, and… plenty of people do! That bastard is wrong. He’s not some wild dog that will bare his teeth at the world.

People wouldn’t just… cage him away because they’re afraid of him. They… wouldn’t.

•~•

Sasuke found Naruto again at around midnight.

In his panicked frenzy, he had eventually found him in somewhere he should’ve expected. Right sat in the Ramen shop, was Naruto. Because of course he was.

He approached, pushing the curtains away to get a better look at him.

“He’s asleep by the way,” called out the voice from behind the counter, “Sasuke, do you mind taking him home?”

He didn’t respond, only picking Naruto up and jumping away. The temptation to take Naruto to the Uchiha compound was tough to ignore. But he did, for his sunlight.

He made sure to tuck Naruto in, watching his face soften as he snuggled into the blankets. Sasuke could also feel his own face soften at the sight. He leaned down to indulge himself slightly, placing a soft kiss upon Naruto’s forehead.

He looked heavenly under the moonlight, and Sasuke was sure he would taste that way as well.

But he stopped himself from doing anything rash. All for Naruto, gosh Sasuke was being so good right now, he’s sure the blonde would be so proud of him.

Something about his smell was a bit off, but he brushed it aside, settling down next to his light.

Gaara would leave in a day’s time, he just had to stop him from trying anything for the next few hours, and if that red headed bitch tries anything again, he won’t have the self control to talk first before he rips his throat out.

The thought of Naruto drenched in Gaara’s blood made Sasuke practically purr. But he wouldn’t do anything in front of Naruto, that would make him look bad in Naruto’s eyes, and he didn’t want that.

No. He wanted to be seen as so such more. He wanted Naruto to be his, to know that himself.

Because Naruto was his.

Whether he knew it or not.