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Chapter Text

Wednesday, March 11th.

The sound of a tall beer glass hit the counter. His jeans, slightly stained by the greasy drips of his sauce, rub against the table leg. His worn converse tapped the floor as more crumbs slid from his chin.

-- Go on, shoot Choji, that's your specialty! shouted one man.

-- Are you really going to let that weakling beat you? A man laughed, sucking the ashes from his cigarette.

Choji struggled as hard as he could to swallow another hot dog, even though his stomach was seriously starting to turn. He was a big eater from birth, a glutton par excellence. But he found himself bewildered when a young blond student was a fair match for his appetite.

Naruto bit into his eleventh hot dog, exploding the ketchup on his fingers. Paying no attention to the fast-food manager's timer. His eye constantly on his rival.

Entering the fast-food restaurant the first time, he was surprised to find a group of people surrounding the counter. All gathered around a well-built man. Brown hair slicked back behind his ears and a mustache exploding with mustard, as he smiled victoriously, dragging a toothpick between his teeth. The impressed praise had caught Naruto's eye, and he immediately tossed his bag onto one of the three vacant stools next to him before pointing.

-- Are you the the fat glutton of the bahus? Naruto squinted with a defiant smile.

-- My name is Choji the gourmet, not "the fat glutton of the bahus". hissed the normally gentleman, still embittered by remarks about his weight.

Tossing his toothpick on the counter, he analyzed the tight-fisted young man facing him. Clearly interested in the blond's spunk.

--Yeah, well, "Choji the gourmet", I dare you to put your title back on the line!

Choji had smiled mischievously. Taking off his green jacket to lay it on its side so as not to get it dirty, he decided to respond to Naruto's boast. It wasn't the first time some little genius had thought himself capable of overcoming his reputation as the city's biggest fast-food gourmet.
And in view of the confident energy of the blond, who had obviously just come out of class given his badly zipped bag, he thought that maybe a little challenge would spice up his day.

-- Do you know the rule of challenges?" proposed Choji, pushing his glass to his left. If I win, you owe me $50, and if by chance you win, I owe you $50 too.

The blond almost immediately accepted, cracking his knuckles. His eyebrows showed great impatience. He reached for the chair his bag had taken, calling to the man behind the counter who was frying up another round of hotdogs.

Now the timer was ticking down to the last ten seconds as the counter of hot dogs eaten was turned over to the staff side.

5.

Naruto took another hot dog into his mouth, forgetting to chew the previous one, almost touching his gag reflex.

4.

Choji quickly swallowed a mouthful of water before continuing with his almost-finished bread.

3.

The audience had formed a circle around them, not crossing the line as cheers came from all sides. Even the tables beyond had their attention turned to the two young adults. The vast majority cheered for the favorite, while some were impressed by Naruto's appetite.

2.

Jaws were almost aching and the taste of the hot dog was beginning to wear on their tired palates, not to mention the many bouts of nausea that were beginning to appear. But this was the home stretch and none of them knew the current score. There was no room for complacency.

1.

One second and the beep sounded. The two stopped, drinking water now that they could cough without wasting any more time.

0.

***

-- Hey, I'm home!

Naruto deposited his bag at the entrance, kicking off his sneakers. He stood in front of the dark alleyway of the apartment he shared with his roommate. The lights were almost all off.

--Naruto, warn me when you're coming home late. Shikamaru sighed in exasperation, turning on all the lights.

Naruto sent an apologetic smile, his gaze falling on the clock radio showing the eleven o'clock hour. He'd had his longest last class of the week, which ended at 9 p.m., and instead of going home, he'd been drawn to the light of this fast-food joint not far from his subway lines.

The journey to his apartment was short enough on public transport, but Naruto found himself stupidly faced with the announcement of yet another strike. He had to walk with a full belly ready to explode and his clothes stained with fat. But in the end it was to his advantage, as he was able to digest calmly, while he was sure that a jolt or two from his train and the seat next to him would be a new color.

-- Sorry Shika'! Naruto smiled, scratching the back of his head.

-- It's okay, I left your food in the fridge, but you're forcing me to take care of you, don't you realize? Can you imagine how lazy I've been?

-- You're a god, man.

-- And take a shower. You smell like grease and oil. It disgusts me. Shikamaru sighed as he turned the key lock behind Naruto.

-- By the way! Guess who challenged Choji earlier? the blond announced proudly.

-- You didn't do it... it's that guy who makes food bets? Please, Naruto, you don't even have enough money to pay your share of the rent, I'm paying for the whole place now!

-- A real monster, that guy! Naruto exclaimed, completely ignoring his friend. I'm telling you, he's a machine, he's almost more human! In 30 minutes he's swallowed like 29 hot-dogs!

-- Naruto, really-

-- I ate 32.

The words died in Shikamaru's throat as he looked up to see the blond smiling at him with his usual childish mockery. Naruto took the 50-dollar bill out of his pocket, placing it on the entrance shelf as he walked towards the kitchen. Leaving Shikamaru to sigh and accept his defeat.

-- I think I'm dreaming.

***

Thursday, March 12.

-- Please give me another month! I assure you that this time it will be the right one!

Naruto held his phone nervously, every other earpiece to his ear as his voice became pleading and drew the attention of the other students walking the corridors. He listened to the heavy voice of his banker on the other side of the line, who seemed to be losing patience.

-- I know I always say this, but...- Naruto was cut off.

The blond felt his shoulders slump as he stopped walking through the university corridors. He saw his friend Kiba approaching him and gave him an apologetic smile before refocusing on his call. He pursed his lips, ruffling his hair in anxiety.

-- I understand what you're telling me, Mister Yakushi, but I'm multiplying odd jobs to be able to pay it all back... this. Naruto tried to calm himself, seeing that his interlocutor had seemed to shut up to let him speak. And I'm sure that with one more month, all the savings from my odd jobs will be able to pay back at least a third of what I owe.

Naruto used his most serious voice to beg for more time. Kiba beside him had stopped to look at him worriedly.

-- But...- I- No, I'm really working! Who told you otherwise?! Naruto snapped. It's- But no!

And the call cut off. Naruto realized that he had spoken too loudly and that several heads were looking at him strangely. But he didn't really care. He no longer had the mercy of Kabuto, who had told him that his next monthly paycheck would be his last. The blond huffed as Kiba handed him his half-finished can.

-- Thank you. the blond man huffed, accepting and sliding to the floor.

-- No worries. said Kiba, biting into his sandwich. Kabuto again? he sighed, sitting down next to him.

-- Yeah, it's a pain in the ass. sighed the blond. This time I think it's dead though.

-- I'm sure it's not! laughed Kiba. Need I remind you of your reputation as Mr Unpredictable? Even when you're in trouble, you manage to get out of it!

-- That was before. Now I don't know what to do... I've got three jobs, I even work weekends! And I can't even pay my share of the rent...

-- Naruto, how the hell did you get here? sighed the dark-haired man as he ate another slice of his sandwich.

Naruto didn't answer. The hubbub of the other students were the only ones talking. Kiba looked at the blond, who was clutching the metal can in his hand. He preferred not to ask any more questions. It was true that the blond had several jobs: he was a delivery boy, a waiter in a coffee shop near the school and a dog-sitter on weekends (it was through this job that he'd met Naruto in the first place).

He didn't know how Naruto managed to switch from one job to another without losing his rhythm. In any case, this boy was perhaps the biggest enigma he'd ever known, even when everything was on his back, the blond managed to get by. It was this quality that impressed him and prompted him to make friends with his dog's keeper. He decided to stand up suddenly to face the defeatist blond..,

-- You're giving up already? I'm surprised at you, who'd have thought the "Great Naruto Uzumaki"- Kiba repeated in the same tone he'd been using. -would be such a faggot...

-- It's more complicated than that and you know it! he growled in reply, feeling anger begin to rise.

-- You're right, you're absolutely right. It's too complex for someone as fragile as you. I don't know what got into me-

Kiba smiled victoriously as the blond rose to lift his collar, his blue eyes almost electric. He was even able to smell the blond's breath on his face.

-- Oh dog smell say again I'm fragile and-

-Yeah, aren't you? Prove it. Kiba cut in.

Kiba felt inwardly intimidated as he saw the blond's face getting closer and closer. But he'd decided not to look down, because he'd have to take the bull by the horns if he wanted to calm down.

-- Of course I'll prove it to you. Naruto hissed, letting go of Kiba's collar.

***

Honestly, what an idiot, how could I even let myself be defeated? The great Naruto Uzumaki doesn't give up, it's against his convictions!

Naruto puffed up his chest as he decided not to take part in the afternoon lecture. He'd catch up on his lecture notes via Kiba, but he had more important things to do. Like finding a job that could save him.

Unpaid debts were piling up in his drawer, numerous zeros lined up that made him really depressed. He had so much work and so many things to do between jobs and classes that he didn't even have a moment for himself. Naruto was just 19 and already regretting his life before coming of age. On his birthday, it was as if everything had fallen into his lap: debts, messages from the bank, bills, and he'd even had to face a judge. Given his age, the public prosecutor was lenient with him, and he wasn't immediately prosecuted.

He returned home, closing the door. Shikamaru wasn't there, so he took the opportunity to grab the bill from his desk.

500 000 $

Damn it, he was 19, just out of high school, how could he afford five hundred thousand dollars. He looked at the jar full of coins and bills he kept under his bed. With his months of hard work, he had finally reached $55,500, which was a small fortune for a normal student. But for a man in debt like him, 55,500 was far from enough to save him.

He turned on Shikamaru's laptop. He'd already sold his to make a hundred dollars and conceded to taking his classes by ballpoint pen at the back of the lecture hall. He looked for a site with job offers, but Naruto had only a baccalaureate, he'd only been a student for two short years, he had no diploma. Most of the ads called for special training, and apart from applications for surface technicians, which didn't pay anyway, there was no way of finding a miracle job.

And I could too...

He suddenly had an idea and decided to plug in the printer. This wasn't a site that was going to scare him. After all, he was the Great Naruto Uzumaki.

***

Friday, March 13th.

The next day was a new day. The day before, Naruto had hatched his little plan and escaped to work his shift at the café.

He woke up, eager to see if his plan had worked, but found himself confused by the absence of a message in his work mailbox.

His phone rang almost instantly and he saw a name which he cooed at.

-- Good Morning Sakura chaan! Naruto chirped.

-- Naruto what's that?! she cried, mentally exhausted.

-- What's what? he crooned.

-- Don't play innocent, Uzumaki. Why are there flyers in your face saying "Hire me, I know how to do everything except what I suck at" in like... The whole town?!

-- How cool is that! Naruto replied excitedly.

-- But Naruto, don't you have any shame?! What an idiot!

Sakura hung up annoyed at being friends with such an idiot. Naruto had had a crush on her since high school and willingly ignored the peaks she offered him, because somewhere she knew it was his way of showing affection. Or maybe he was just relativizing the times his friend could be hurtful.

He sighed, not understanding what was wrong with her flyers.

It showed Naruto proudly standing on a pink background, with frog-shaped stickers on the paper. He had typed on the computer, with a few spelling mistakes, his skills, motivations and e-mail address.

He looked intently at the card to see what was wrong so that he'd received no reply.

-- Hmm... maybe I didn't put enough glitter on?

***

Naruto went back to the university and missed all the dialogues that concerned him. People who didn't usually look at him looked at him strangely, as if he was growing a second head. And he swore that some students were sneering at him.

Naruto didn't pay much attention, or maybe he just didn't notice, as he hummed confidently. Looking up, he saw Sakura and Kiba seemingly waiting for him outside the lecture hall door. Kiba could hardly hide his smile behind his parka and Sakura crossed her arms sternly.

-- Yo Kiba, Sakura-chan, Naruto grinned happily at them. sup- uh... Why are you looking at me like that?

-- Dude, are you really aware that everyone's talking about you right now? said Kiba, who was finding it hard to keep a straight face.

On his way to class this morning, he hadn't expected to see Naruto's head taped to his letterbox. He'd burst out laughing, and even after he'd nearly choked to death, it hadn't stopped him. Damn it, Mr. Unpredictable had struck again.

-- Talking about me? Why? Naruto asked in sudden confusion.

Sakura lost patience and thrust her flyer into Naruto's face.

-- Doesn't that mean anything to you?

-- Chill Sakura, why are you so upset? I think it's funny. Kiba said, putting his hand on the shoulder of the young woman who was almost ranting.

-- Of course you'll find it funny. idiots understand idiots.

And she walked back into the lecture hall, really embarrassed to be singled out for her friend's stupidity. She really liked Naruto, and he was the closest thing she had to a best friend, but how stupid he was.

-- Man, I don't know what's missing from my card... Naruto scratched his head.

-- glitters.

-- Fuck, I knew it! Naruto sighed.

And Kiba burst out laughing again in the corridor. He wouldn't regret being friends with Naruto for the world.

***

On his way home from school at around 8 p.m., Kiba was surprised to see a circle in the middle of the street. He was surprised to see a red circle in his business address. He clicked excitedly as he saw the subject "Application".

He quickly scrolled through the e-mail to see a request for an appointment at an address for an interview the following day. By a certain "Uchiha.S".

At the same time, Shikamaru returned, closing the door.

-- Damn it, Naruto, that's not what my printer is for- Naruto?

Shikamaru saw a blond lightning bolt, almost glowing, take him in his arms. He almost fell backwards under Naruto's weight.

-- Shika' i did it ! I've got an interview tomorrow!

-- Seriously? How the hell is that even possible? Shikamaru sighed. The worst thing is that it's not even a stroke of luck, it's Friday the 13th!

Even for a genius like him, he didn't know how this human was even capable of getting out of complicated situations with such stupid solutions. It was as if Naruto was a one-man exception.

-- The Great Naruto Uzumaki never reveals his secrets! he said with infectious joy.

***

Saturday, March 14th

The next morning, he got up an hour early. He had showered, dressed properly in a shirt and ironed it. He'd even combed his hair! Well, it was no use - his hair was far too untamable for Shikamaru's meagre comb... But he'd tried!

He smiled at his reflection to check that nothing was missing from his appearance and when he was satisfied, he descended the steps to come face to face with Shikamaru who was typing on his computer.

-- Aren't you at school? Naruto asked, slipping on his converse.

-- It's Saturday, Naruto. sighed the dark-haired boy.

-- Of course I knew that.

Shikamaru breathed again before moving towards Naruto to put his collar back on. And put both hands on his shoulders.

-- Okay, Naruto, listen to me. For your interview, I have three things to tell you...

***

Naruto looked at the address displayed on his phone to make sure he'd arrived at the right address. His eyes were wide as he faced a house that was surely as big as a monument.

A large iron gate separated him from the immense building opposite. On the letterbox next to the gate, he saw gold letters reading "Uchiha Residence". Naruto was both amazed and excited by the immense building in front of him. He was more determined than ever: if he could manage to work for someone so well-to-do, he'd finally be able to get rid of the debt that was crippling him.

With a big smile, he faced the camera-equipped intercom and rang the bell. A crackling sound was heard.

-- Uchiha residence. How can I help you?

-- Hey uh... I'm Naruto and I've got an interview here!

It took about ten seconds without a sound before the gate opened automatically and he was faced with an enormous garden. The paths were lush and green, while the path was well-kept, with banquets of flowers and roses leading the way to the huge three-storey house. He watched in awe as two men in white suits watered plants in the enormous garden. The suits were opaque and fitted perfectly to their figures, showing off their long legs. Naruto thought it would fit in perfectly with the decor.

-- Hello Uzumaki-san, Mr. Uchiha wants you in his office.

He swore he hadn't seen the man until he heard him near his ear. He had a pallid complexion and was dressed in the same white suit as the gardeners who tended the flowers. He wore a frightening smile that made him shiver. He was undoubtedly a handsome man, but there was something too superficial and dubious about him for him to get attached.

The man turned and strode forward, his body straight as an i and his hands gloved behind his back.

Naruto followed him through the huge house, not bothering to look around because at the man's walking speed he feared he'd lose him if he stopped. After climbing a series of steps, he found himself facing a door, and the young servant beckoned him to wait as he knocked twice on the door.

-- Mr. Uchiha, Uzumaki-san is here.

He didn't hear Uchiha's reply, but he saw the pallid-skinned man nod, still with that sickening smile on his face. He looked into Naruto's blue eyes before reaching for the door, urging him to enter.

-- Go ahead.

And he disappeared down the hall. Naruto pushed the door open with great aspiration, remembering the advice Shikamaru had given him an hour earlier.

"So already step 1, as you enter you say 'Hello' with a respectful nod, you need to show him your good manners first and foremost."

-- Hi! You must be Uchiha? I'm Naruto!

He immediately swallowed his tongue when he saw the dark look in the man's eyes. His hands were crossed under his chin and his face revealed absolutely nothing. Uchiha had such a perfect face that it annoyed Naruto: a beautiful white complexion with no imperfections, deep, even black eyes without the slightest emotion in them, and hair that was just as neat around his head with bangs that almost swept over his eyes. He was the kind of mysterious guy who would drive Sakura crazy.

His face was hard and his dark eyes seemed to read Naruto's very soul as he saw an intensity in his stance that made him seem to dominate space.
Naruto thought for a moment that if he scratched he'd see a wall behind that face. The man hadn't uttered a greeting, not even a smile or a nod. He was as static as a statue, analyzing the blond as if he were an experiment.

In response, the blond gave his most dazzling smile. If there was one thing he'd learned in his 19 years of existence, it was that when he did something stupid, he had to smile as quickly as possible to mitigate the damage. When the man in front of him raised an eyebrow, Naruto was astonished, having almost come to terms with the fact that he was facing a statue rather than a man.

-- Please introduce yourself. And tell me about your experience. Sasuke didn't move from his position.

Naruto sat down opposite him and tried to remember Shikamaru's advice as he stood awkwardly on the pale wooden chair.

"Step two, stand up straight, don't cross your legs and put your hands on the table. Hold his gaze as long as you can.

Naruto tried in vain, not really preventing his foot from moving. He hid his arms behind his head as he eased his pressure as much as possible. He sucked at following rules anyway...

-- I'm Naruto Uzumaki and I turned 19 5 months ago. He smiled. Well, in my experience, I've had a few jobs here and there... He drew circles in the air with his fingers. Like I'm a waiter in a coffee shop near the campus, I'm also a delivery boy and I'm a dog sitter, I look after busy people's dogs...

-- Okay, so no experience.

When the black-haired man finally moved from his position, it was to open the gray folder in front of him and write something down. Naruto hadn't moved at first, he hadn't quite understood what the black-haired man had said until the information had gone to his brain and his whole being was offended, what do you mean no experience?!

-- No experience?! I'll have you know that I'm very good socially and easy to communicate with all kinds of people! Naruto banged his fist on the table before regretting it as the pain itched his wrist.
And I can drive a motorcycle, a car or even a truck! Just in case, delivery boy doesn't ride an electric scooter. "Asshole" he wanted to add.

Naruto ranted so much that you could almost see the smoke of annoyance coming out of his ears. The neutral face of the man in front of him was so perfect and so orderly that it irritated him even more, now that he recognized him as a stupid rich snob. He wasn't the kind of man to give a label on first meeting, but Sasuke gave him the impression he wasn't wrong about him.

-- impulsive and stubborn? The black-haired man analyzed the file in his hands before nodding. Can I be on first-name terms with you as you were with me just now? he asked, never looking up from his file.

-- No.

Sasuke raised his gaze, coming face to face with the blond's big smile, which proudly lined up his row of white teeth. In response, Naruto heard a poorly concealed sigh that gave him a great sense of victory.

-- Good. Do you know who I am, Uzumaki-san?

The blond clearly approached his face, which surprised Sasuke a little. Naruto inclined his head in clear confusion.

-- S . Uchiha, the lucky man who had the chance to contact the Great Uzumaki Naruto.

Naruto didn't see the black-haired man rub his eyes. He knew the name Uchiha was familiar from somewhere, even Shikamaru had remarked on it. But it was impossible for him to know where or how.

-- S is for Sasuke. I'm Sasuke Uchiha.

-- Cool, nice to meet you Saskey! he says in a terrible Australian accent

Naruto sent another smile as he held out his hand to the tall black-haired man, who just ignored the outstretched hand.

- Are you Australian? 

- I lived in australia! how did you guess?

-intuition. said Sasuke, rolling his eyes. anyway. I'm a pianist. And I'll be touring America very soon. But with only a few days to go, I find myself without a driver.

The dark-haired man looked into the blond's blue eyes, waiting for his brain to make the connection with the request.

-- Why?

Sasuke raised an eyebrow.

-- Why what? Naruto watched the dark-haired man make a funny face of confusion, which amused him.

-- Why don't you have a driver at the last minute? the blond repeated.

-- He no longer matches my expectations. And I get bored of the staff very quickly, so I fired him. Sasuke said without inflection.

-- But that's stupid, you don't have a driver anymore...what are you going to do?

Naruto didn't understand the frightened look on Sasuke's face. Nor even the boredom in his eyes, but amusement outweighed incomprehension. Sasuke's face was so inexpressive that just a little confusion immediately made his face brighter.

-- Let me rephrase that. Uzumaki Naruto, I want you in the driver's seat. You mentioned social skills and the ability to drive vehicles. That's what I'm looking for.

The blond's eyes couldn't have been any brighter than they were now. His mocking smile turned enthusiastic as he approached the black-haired man.

-- Oh, great! I'll do my job like a boss. Don't worry Saskey, you've got nothing to fear from me, I'm a human GPS. I won't get lost-

-- I'll stop you right there. Sasuke cut Naruto off and he immediately sat back down. This isn't just a job where you have to get me where I want to go without getting lost.  He sat up straight in his long leather chair. I want a valet.

-- huh? Naruto blinked.

-- I want you as my valet.

Naruto looked at the black-haired man's neutral expression, who didn't seem to have released his gaze for a moment. A valet? Was he really asking him to be a servant? A servant like the man who was smiling earlier? With the white suit and all?

-- Is this a joke?

-- You know, I've heard a lot about you. They say you've got a knack for getting out of any situation... Let me see.

-- There's no way I'm going to be a valet and wear this ugly suit. Naruto rose from his chair, ready to leave.

-- The salary is 60 dollars an hour.

Sasuke was surprisingly more pleased when the blond stopped walking and turned in his direction. Mouth open as if he'd seen a ghost.

-- 60... per hour?

-- Yes, this is a multi-state tour. Also, because of my status, we'll be stopping nights for luxury hotels.

-- Like in the movies?!

-- Like in the movies, yes. Sasuke nodded. A 7-month tour and you'll be back for Halloween.

-- Oh, that'll be my birthday too! The blond smiled broadly. What does a valet's job involve?

-- You'd be a driver, but you'd carry my luggage, my suitcases, you'd make hotel reservations and you'd be the one to bring my suits back from the dry cleaners, things like that. There was a silence before Sasuke perhaps lifted his lips a little in a smile that was invisible anyway. ...The white suit is optional.

There was a silence as Naruto weighed up the pros and cons. The contract seemed surreal, 7 months of pure travel accompanying a snob, 7 months away from college, away from his teachers, away from Kiba...Sakura... The dream...

-- ..7 months ?

-- Yes, this job isn't for married men or fathers, so the choice of candidates is often based on age. You seem relatively young. Sasuke reorganized the files lying carelessly on his table. The blond seemed to be thinking. Do you have a girlfriend who poses a problem?

-- No. But I've got my friends here and... huh...

Sasuke sighed as he picked up a Post-it from his desk. He wrote down a series of numbers and handed it to the blond.

-- My contact details. Contact me again later for your final decision.

-- Thanks. The blond looked at the paper, still in thought.

He stood up and approached the door. Surprisingly, he didn't have many friends, his circle consisting of just Kiba, Sakura and Shikamaru. What if he left and on his return his friends had forgotten him, or worse... replaced him? Of course, this chance would never come again and he was the lucky man of the day, but he couldn't help thinking of his friends, whom he considered his family. He put his hand on the door handle, a bitter taste in his mouth.

-- Interesting little pink flyers, Naruto.

The blond turned, surprised to hear his first name, only to see the dark-haired man give him a thin, wry smile. Naruto looked up with a small, knowing smile, almost forgetting his previous dark thoughts.

-- I should have added some glitter.

And he left, leaving Sasuke alone in his office. The door closed behind him. In an almost religious silence, he looked at the little pink card he'd kept in his drawer.

...glitter?

Chapter Text

Monday, March 16th.

The cafeteria was so crowded that even a social butterfly like Naruto , had felt discouraged. All the tables were taken and the bedlam had woken him up like a strident alarm clock would, it must be said that the silence of his previous philosophy class where half the students were between sleeping and dozing, the contrast was exhilarating . He and Kiba had to settle on a table outside, which was so much calmer and quieter than the invasion of the building. Well, it was calmer and quieter," he sighed, grimacing as Kiba screamed again in excitement, making his poor eardrums ache.

- But that's great, Naruto! Kiba exclaimed, grabbing Naruto's shoulders and shaking him so fast that Naruto felt his head react negatively. 60 dollars an hour? 7 months?! Do you realize how much you're going to make when you get home... Kiba seemed to stop and count on his fingers before straightening up. That's a LOT !

- Kiba, being so enthusiastic, you'd think you'd landed the job. Naruto said with a mocking smile as the dark-haired man scratched his cheek with embarrassment.

- I confess I was worried that you'd be forced to stop paying your tuition and that I'd find myself without you on campus... Can you imagine the horror? Putting up with Sakura's manners all alone-

Kiba saw Naruto's big smile appear and his blue eyes shine, it was as if he'd lit up; with his smile taking up almost the whole lower half of his face and his gaze full of stars. He almost looked like a golden retriever who'd just been congratulated. Without a second thought, Naruto took him in his arms, almost making him fall backwards, but Kiba didn't complain as his friend's enthusiasm warmed his heart.

-- Thank you, Kiba!

Before he could say anything else, a new tray hit their tables and they looked up almost in total synchronization to see their pink-haired friend waving at them as they sat down next to Kiba to face Naruto.

Sakura's make-up was, as always, refreshingly childlike and innocent, so much so that she looked like a piece of candy. She was wearing a red combishort and open-toed shoes.

Naruto liked Sakura a lot, even if she was more there to scold him; he'd had a severe crush on her all through high school, but when he'd confessed behind the gym...he'd found himself faced with a huge rake... Well, it was thanks to this inglorious event that they started hanging out together, for better or for worse.

Naruto was studying psychology like Kiba, and the dog man honestly didn't even know what he was doing there; he wanted to stop after high school and look after his dog.But his sister had almost forced him to continue at university. He had her to thank, since he'd been there he'd been having the time of his life 98% of the time, the other 2% being the studies themselves.

-- I feel like I've interrupted a moment of bromance. Sakura sniffed.

She had seen the two men hugging as she walked towards them. Immediately, Naruto's big smile told her she had to prepare for an announcement, and Kiba's excitement on the other side was as annoying as it was amusing.

-- Sakura-chan, my flyers worked, I've got a job offer!

Sakura stopped eating, raising an eyebrow as if she didn't believe it. Who on earth would be charmed by such nonsense? She sighed, as usual, the idiot was getting his way by totally stupid means. She returned his smile.

-- And what's this job offer? Sakura looked worried. You've already got three jobs that take up all your time.

-- Forget Naruto the delivery boy, Naruto the waiter and Naruto the dog-sitter. I'm leaving for 7 months, as a chauffeur for a rich person. Naruto smiled .

-- How can a rich person even be charmed by your silly pink paper?

Sakura laughed loudly and Naruto followed suit, but something inside him was offended by the remark. He decided to move on, wanting to ignore the feeling that his efforts were being laughed at so much.

-- I don't know, I must admit I leave my little effect everywhere. he blinked charmingly while Kiba laughed into his hands.

-- Why do you have to go away for 7 months if you're just a chauffeur? Sakura said after she'd finished giggling.

-- Precisely! Kiba spoke this time, with a big wolfish grin on his face. He's the chauffeur of a touring celebrity!

Sakura's eyes turned round as she shifted her gaze from Kiba to Naruto. A celebrity? A real one?! Immediately Sakura's curiosity soared as she stared at her blond friend as if he were the eighth wonder of the world right now.

-- Who's that? Who! Tell me!

-- An asshole. Naruto sighed. His offer's incredible, but the guy's snobbish and pretentious as hell.

-- Please Naruto, give a name!

What Naruto didn't know was that Sakura was a BIG fan of celebrity magazines. She adored the lives of showbiz and rising TV stars. She was always admiring and sometimes envious of the people who lit up television screens the world over. Even though she was studying medicine, she had always dreamed of appearing on the big screen, behind a big red curtain that showed off her pink hair.

Naruto found the desperation in Sakura's green eyes almost tempting. It was one of the few times she seemed genuinely ready to listen to him, and Naruto couldn't express how satisfied it made him.

-- Just before, promise me you won't tell anyone, I don't want everyone on campus to know...

-- I promise! She swore excitedly.

Naruto judged her gaze, losing himself in her eyes for a moment, before giving in. Throwing Kiba a final look of distress as a last white flag, the fake friend waved his hands and left him to fend for himself. What a coward!

-- Sasuke Uchiha. Naruto replied nonchalantly but with a certain apprehension.

Sakura almost screamed, putting her hands in front of her mouth to hide another surprise. Sasuke Uchiha, the cold-hearted pianist who turned hundreds of heads. The handsome man she'd dreamed of marrying since the first time she saw him on TV? The same dark-haired man who played like a virtuoso at operas and galas, and who seemed anything but old-fashioned. He had no particular style, and always adapted to whoever was hosting the concert: one day he'd be playing Beethoven at the Met Gala in New York, and the next he'd be revisiting Olivia Rodriguo's latest single at the Microsoft Theatre in Los Angeles. But she - like many fans - knew that his preferred style was modern jazz. He was a composer and actually started a tour to share his new album "Du rouge au noir"

In her bedroom, she had a large poster of a photo shoot with the dark-haired man posing nonchalantly against his piano. The black-haired man's almost mystical beauty was all she could think of. Recently, she'd seen in Muscle & fitness, an American magazine, that he'd taken first place in the "Top 10 of the hottest male celebrities of the month", winning the majority of poll votes. She heard snapping near her ears and was surprised to see Kiba snapping his fingers bringing her back to her.

-- O-oh uh sorry.... Are you really waiting for Sasuke Uchiha?! I didn't even know he lived in Rhode Island with us, so in the same town on top of that... Her gaze drifted to her meat, which she hadn't even started yet.

-- Is he that famous? Kiba was already screaming in my ears earlier...

-- YES!" shouted both of them at the same time.

Naruto remained silent, how could this bastard be so well known? He was sure that if the media knew his true face, he wouldn't be quoted so much. It was just a pretty face that caught the public's attention, that's all! Mind you, not that he was all that handsome, just another kind of sexy man, with a dark and powerful gaze like any other, and a fucking muscularity - yes well, better stop here.

-- Naruto, you're all red. Kiba said instinctively. Oh... you're thinking of something interesting, aren't you? laughed Kiba rudely.

-- Please, Kiba, shut up. Naruto isn't like you! Sakura replied.

Sakura was defending him? That was the first time. A big, victorious smile took possession of Naruto's lips as he flashed it at the defeatist Kiba. Who didn't seem to answer, strangely looking at Sakura as if she were some kind of clone.

-- Well, it's almost time for our next class, Kiba, let's go! Naruto cut in.

Kiba nodded positively, taking his used tray with him. The two boys waved goodbye to Sakura, leaving the beautiful student dreaming.

***

The rest of the day went rather strangely. At the end of his class, on his way to the café for his shift, he saw Sakura waiting for him and made the trip with him. He was able to get on with his work and even invited Sakura to share a drink with him. He wouldn't complain though, it had been his dream since high school to be able to ask Sakura out for a drink.

Well, it wasn't a date, they'd talked about classes and Sakura mostly asked him about Sasuke, as if he gave a damn. But with some imagination and by crossing out the annoying questions about Sasuke... it could be done! And he could almost pass it off as a date. He smiled victoriously as he pushed open the doors to his apartment.

-- I'm home! he said happily, untying his shoelaces

Curiously, he was answered by silence. Naruto was confused to see that Shikamaru's shoes were missing from the entrance - he hadn't come home yet.

Strange, given that the lazy man would want to get to sleep as soon as possible after a day of classes. And one look at Shikamaru's timetable on the fridge and he knew that his last class had ended two hours ago. Naruto lost his smile, as a lump of worry formed in the hollow of his throat. He called Shikamaru's number. After several rings, his roommate picked up.

-- Hey Shika! What's taking you so long?

-- Hello! A female voice answered instead of his friend.

-- Oh uh hello, who are you?

-- Im his girlfriend , Temari. And you, what do you want with Shikamaru?

-- Naruto! I'm Shika's roommate, nice to meet you Temari. Naruto smiled. And I just wanted to know where he was.

-- Naruto? Oh, you're the one who'll be leaving me his place soon! How's the apartment ? I haven't seen it yet, I've only got the photos Shikamaru took-

-- Leaving his place? The apartment? Naruto seemed confused before being cut off by Shikamaru's distant voice.

-- Temari, give me back my phone. Another crackle and Temari's voice answered. -I'm talking to your roommate! Again there was silence and Shikamaru's voice seemed clearer. Hey Naruto, what's up?

-- Huh..hey Shika, what's Temari talking about? What do you mean she's going to take my place? Naruto sat cross-legged on his bed as a certain anticipation took over his voice.

-- What a drag... He heard Shikamaru mumble. I'll be there in 10 minutes Naruto.

***

Naruto wanted to break something. Smash a wall, smash some plates, give a good shout ... All synonyms for how furious he was, and how distraught.

He had contacted Kiba in a fit of fear, and the dog-man had turned up almost immediately in front of his house. Kiba had a small white truck with the effigy of his sister's dog groomer, the big van also known as the terror of children. Naruto had climbed in as if being chased, and now he was in Kiba's room, circling, biting his inner cheek so hard that a metallic taste met his tongue. And he hissed as he bit down on the gash he'd already made for himself.

-- You're making me dizzy! Kiba shouted. Speak in words, i beg !

At this point, Kiba was mentally exhausted, Naruto had crushed several of his belongings, dropped several books on his desk and even managed to break a glass through clumsiness. This dickhead was the epitome of frustration and also the perfect representation of the man who destroys everything in his path in a fit of anger. He breathed as he took hold of the blond's shoulders, which had frozen under his touch.

-- Shikamaru sold my place as roommate so that his girlfriend could live in my place ! Naruto said angrily

-- What?! Kiba was stunned. But it's not like Shikamaru to pull a bastard trick like that!

-- In fact, he did it before I found this job application, so when I was busier saving to pay off my loans than paying the rent... Naruto huffed and dropped onto Kiba's bed, his head staring at the ceiling full of fluorescent stars that must have glowed in the dark. I know I couldn't stay much longer anyway, but he could have warned me... He huffed dejectedly.

-- Shit... Kiba sighed, looking at his friend's sad eyes. What choice do you have? Are you going to accept Sasuke's job offer?

-- I don't know... Naruto closed his eyes and sighed in frustration. Tell yourself that this guy was sitting on a big chair like a throne and he asked me to be his valet.

-- Sounds like the beginning of a bad porno. Kiba pointed out with amusement.

-- I'm not finished yet,he rolled his eyes. Apart from this guy's egocentricity, he pursed his lower lip. I'm afraid I'll be replaced like Shikamaru just did if I leave... Imagine I come back, and I see that at Sakura's table you and I There is a charismatic new blond, ingenious, with incredibly bright blue eyes and-

-- It's all right, Naruto, I think I've got it. Kiba said with a hint of a laugh. How can I replace a guy like you? You're the most unique guy I've ever met! He said honestly.

-- Aww Kiba, if you were gay and didn't smell like dog every day of the year, I'd have married you by now!

Naruto softened again as he came to embrace Kiba, who this time, however, pushed Naruto's face with his foot as Naruto advanced all the same despite the dissuasive white sock on his cheek.

Suddenly, Naruto's phone rang and he saw Shikamaru's name appear. His shoulders stiffened reflexively. He'd left cold, slamming the door behind him. As he thought about it, his brain calmer, the guilt returned. He shouldn't have left in such a hurry or even shouted at him. He was one of the few people he considered a friend. And even though he was truly disappointed by his betrayal, he somehow understood his decision. He'd really abused Shikamaru's hospitality and should have kicked him out long ago.

-- Naruto, I'm sorry, I knew I should have warned you beforehand... Are you at Kiba's?

-- Yes, Naruto scratched the back of his head as he glanced towards the balcony to let Kiba know he was going there to be alone with his call. Sorry too, I acted without thinking...

-- Don't apologize, it's deserved... Can you come in? There's someone here to see you.

Shikamaru didn't give him time to answer as he ended the call. Was someone there for him? Naruto raised an eyebrow before opening the veranda and re-entering Kiba's room.

-- Hi, my favorite little driver... Naruto took on a childish voice.

-- The keys are at the entrance, please don't damage my baby.

-- Thank you, Kiba!

Naruto beamed and yelped as he descended the steps and greeted Kiba's sister and mother, who looked at him as if he were mad.

***

So. Out of all the people, Sakura , Kiba , their neighbors, a student, a teacher or even Beyoncé, Naruto hadn't expected to see in all his egocentric splendor, Sasuke. Sitting cross-legged in a delicious dark purple suit on his sofa, watching him.

-- Is this a joke?

Sasuke raised an eyebrow at the blond. Naruto took a defensive step backwards, almost certain that the man in front of him was some kind of destructive robot. He noticed a gray folder lying beside his legs.

When he looked up, he finally noticed Shikamaru standing just behind Sasuke, watching him nonchalantly. Naruto preferred not to look at him, still hurt that his friend had decided to kick him out of his house without warning and put his girlfriend there instead. It was obvious that Naruto wouldn't stay angry with Shikamaru for long, but for the moment Naruto kept that sour feeling that reminded him how much it had infuriated and vexed him.

-- Naruto , he is here to- Shikamaru was cut off.

-- I know exactly why he's here. Naruto hated how cold his voice sounded compared to usual.

-- Well, since you seem to be more perceptive than last time, you can answer me. Sasuke moistened his lips almost sensuously, shifting his leg parallel to the other one. Departure is imminent.

Naruto sighed, pushing a chair from the dining room to sit opposite Sasuke. In fact, for the past two days, he'd done nothing but think about it. How this chance would never come again, and how clear it was that this proposal was not open to everyone. And it was obvious that if he committed himself, then all this debt that had been crippling him for a year now would miraculously go away. But he really didn't want to leave what he'd worked so hard to build here. He was afraid of losing everything he had by leaving. That Kiba, Sakura or Shikamaru would forget him or, worse still, replace him.

Kiba had assured him that he wouldn't forget him this morning, and it had really pleased him to be able to count on a friend like him. Sakura didn't know, but he knew that the pretty student was a loyal friend, even if she had her faults. And Shikamaru... Naruto felt himself sigh, Shikamaru had just tried to kick him out. If he hadn't had this proposal, he'd never have been informed and he'd only know on the day that his suitcase had been thrown out.

Silence fell in the room as Sasuke quietly watched the blond put his head in order and Shikamaru felt it was his responsibility to advise him. He knew he should have warned Naruto earlier, and he was going to, but he didn't know how to broach the subject; it seemed awkward. Well, now that Naruto had found out from someone else, the situation was even more awkward than he'd originally planned. He sighed.

-- Naruto, you're not going to eat hot dogs to make money all your life, you know?

Naruto could feel the last rope of reason keeping him from making a scene against Shikamaru beginning to crack, and he decided to take a long breath before speaking as cordially as possible.

-- Shikamaru, please, could you leave us alone?

He didn't want to hurt Shikamaru when his friend was trying to help him, but he couldn't help it, the resentment was too strong for him to simply keep quiet. So he preferred to create a distance and let his body cool down.

Shikamaru shrugged in response and simply left, leaving Sasuke's ever so stoic gaze directed at the blond.

-- So you eat hot dogs to earn money? I thought you had odd jobs.

Sasuke's presence had almost been forgotten by Naruto, who was startled to hear his heavy baritone. He watched as the dark-haired man elegantly raised an eyebrow in his direction.

-- That's the case. But my three jobs aren't always enough, and I was hungry that day. He defended himself.

-- Hungry for street food? Sasuke gave a disgusted look.

-- Excuse me, Mister Uchiha, Naruto used his ironic voice. I don't have the money for a nice plate of caviar after spending a long day insulting my staff dressed in stupid white suits.

Naruto saw the semblance of an amused smile on Sasuke's lips before he pulled himself together again.

-- The suit was that traumatic for you?

--It looks like a pale copy of the Easter Bunny costume!

-- Yet I'm sure you'd look very handsome in it.

Naruto's eyes turned round as he cursed Sasuke's expressionless face.

-- Fucking bastard. Naruto muttered to himself, his cheeks rosier than they should be.

-- Well, Naruto, do you have a final answer? Don't forget that in addition to free meals and luxury hotels, you'll be able to pay off your debts.

Sasuke rose to approach Naruto and stood in front of him. His cool, elegant gait almost hypnotized the blond, who could only watch the pianist's deep gaze approach with confidence before a light flashed in his brain, waking him immediately.

-- Wait, how do you know I'm in debt?!

-- someone who makes a flyer on Paint to post all over town to find a job is either crazy or desperate. He looked into Naruto's blue eyes and smiled mockingly. And I think you're both.

He held out his hand, watching the blond not lower his gaze either. It was with satisfaction that he felt a large hand grasp his in tacit agreement.

-- If you promise me that in Valet I won't have to provide you with a personal maid...

-- We'll see about that, idiot. Naruto watched Sasuke untie his hand to put his shoes back on at the entrance. When his back was to him and he was ready to leave, he turned with his usual cold gait and looked into Naruto's eyes. See you the day after tomorrow at 2:30pm. Pack your bags.

-- The day after tomorrow?!

-- Dobe, I told you it would be imminent .

He bowed respectfully and left the blond, who was still staring at the door with saucers for eyes. As if electrocuted, he ran to the window, just to see how the biggest car he'd ever seen in his life, this is the kind of car I'm going to have to drive?! Sasuke appeared at last, his hands elegantly in his trouser pockets, his back straight and damn near aristocratic. Why did this bastard have to exude so much charisma? it was almost unfair!

He saw the rear door open by itself and, as if sensing his gaze, Sasuke turned to face him. The moment their eyes met had been brief, but he saw how Sasuke had smirked at him before getting into the car.

Naruto couldn't help but smile too once the car had disappeared. He'd made a deal with the devil himself, and it was really exciting. Turning around, he saw that Sasuke had forgotten his gray folder, and looked at it for almost a second before letting his curiosity get the better of him and opening it.

He laughed under his breath when he saw that he had forgotten the file that concerned him... It actually consisted of his file and the notes he'd taken with him at the interview. He ignored the long pamphlet and concentrated on the two short sentences at the end.

"Visibly stupid and stubborn. Strong personality and impulsive... Nevertheless amusing.".

What have I gotten myself into?