Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

“Mama! Mama!”, a young childish voice was heard all over the -relatively modest -Uzumaki household. Footsteps and a loud cry for mama could be heard coming from a small blonde child. The child currently on the quest to find his mama and ask him a very important question.

“Mama!!”, a young child exclaimed upon seeing his mama sitting on the floor in front of the coffee table and reading a scroll.

Upon seeing his child Minato raised his head to look at him properly.

Naruto, his son, was smiling from ear to ear, so excited to see his Ma. His hands clapped together and eyes sparkling with stars. He wore his favorite shirt; a shirt that had Uzumaki print on its back. Naruto really loved that shirt and would show it to anyone who would- or wouldn’t- listen.

He wore an Uzumaki Clan print with pride, Minato couldn’t be prouder.

His son really was amazing and was already showing great qualities to become the worlds greatest shinobi. Some could debate that Naruto’s great quality wasn’t so great as he was, hyperactive. Minato, or Kushina for that matter, could never get him to calm down. Always talking, running and playing around, even when it was time to sleep.

And because Minato knew his child, Minato was well aware that he had less than ten seconds to prepare for his son’s jump into his arms.

And just as Minato predicted, Naruto suddenly started running towards him. Next thing Minato saw was his son’s blond and messy hair on his face.

“Ow, Naruto!”, Minato yelped. He really did love the way Naruto got so excited to see his mom every time he entered the room, but he also disliked the fact Naruto always had to jump into his arms, as Naruto was getting bigger and taller every day.

“We talked about this, Naruto.”

Naruto whimpered. Minato let out an exasperated breath.

Naruto was looking at him with his big sapphire eyes, trying to mimic puppy eyes.

It was working.

Minato let out another exasperated breath. He didn’t really mean it in a mean way, his son just made him act a certain way.

He found Naruto’s head deeply rooted into his neck, slowly rubbing, as if he was trying to test out the waters if he could do it or not. And the day Minato says no to scenting his baby is the day he has officially gone mad.

Minato pressed his head onto Naruto’s, letting his head fall deeper into his neck. Naruto immediately relished in the act. Slowly, Minato started rubbing his head onto his son, meeting his own neck to Naruto’s cheek.

And he giggled, of course he did.

And Minato started purring.

It never took Minato long to start purring. He was one of those omegas who usually felt happy and didn’t take long to please; give him his pup or wife and he would be purring instantly.

Omegas usually purred with their kits and loved ones, meaning; when they are happy and content. Minato is nowhere as happy and content as he is when he is holding his kit.

He knew Naruto loved when he purred for him. He knew so as he watched his son’s whole body relax and go soft, as gelatin would. He bet if Naruto could emit pheromones, he would send content and happy ones along with love. He was sure of it.

“Mama..”

Minato hummed in response.

“I have a question..”, a much calmer Naruto spoke. All sluggish and calm. Completely different from one Minato saw not even five minutes ago.

“Yes, honey?”

“Can we..”, a bit too sluggish and calm, Minato figured. He removed his head from Naruto’s cheek and looked him in the eyes.

It took a few moments for Naruto to snap back and think about what he wanted to ask. Minato already had a hunch.

Naruto’s eyes sparkled again. His whole face lit up and was practically buzzing from excitement.

Oh Minato definitely knew what his son wanted to ask.

“Mama! Can we please, go see Sasuke?!”

Minato chuckles. He was right to try and guess what his son wanted to ask him.

Naruto was completely and utterly obsessed with his best friend, as he calls him now: best friend.

The moment Naruto actually learned what that term meant, he stuck to it but never used it lightly. Only one person in the whole world-Naruto’s words, not his- was his best friend. Uchiha Sasuke. ‘His one and only’.

Minato chuckled, smiling softly at his kit. “Hmm.. Why don’t we ask Pa what she thinks, hm?”. Naruto nodded and instantly let out almost-too-loud yell after his Pa.

“Papaaaa!!”

In an instant Kushina stood at the door. “Ayy! Naruto! Why are you yelling after me?!” She yelled right back at her son. He, of course being only five years old, giggled and hid his mouth behind his hands.

“Mama said to ask you if we can go see Sasuke!”

“You brat!”, she yelled at him. Of course her yelling wasn’t actual yelling and she didn’t want to make her son sad, even less, scared of her. She was just like that, energetic and full of enthusiasm. Naruto was already taking after her, from her personality to her speech figures. And he was only five years old.

Minato wondered if it was a blessing or disaster.

“You yelled so hard just to ask if you can go see Sasuke?!”

“Yes!!”

“You-!”

“Okay, okay, you two,” Minato interfered, he had to, otherwise these two would go at it the whole afternoon. They were like that, and Minato wouldn’t give them up for the world.

“Kushina, I have a few mission reports to go through and a few teams to assemble for missions. I don’t think I will be able to take him today.”

It was true, Minato, the Fourth Hokage, was always busy. He barely had time to eat in the morning with his family and even less to take his son for a playdate. Which saddened him dearly. Usually in times like these he was so grateful to have Kushina as a mate. She was always willing to take Naruto wherever he needed or wanted to go (usually to his friend’s house).

It was still a bit weird, to see an alpha take care of the kit as an omega would do. Yes, times have changed and there are many families that do stuff differently but it is still seen as something a bit in the ‘weirder’ territory.

But neither of Naruto’s parents cared. They didn’t have the time to care, Minato was the Hokage, he had the whole village to run as well as take care of his family. So far he was doing an amazing job.

“Ah my hard working mate!” Kushina played along. “When will you take care of your poor family?!”, she faked and punctuated the words as she walked and fell in front of her mate and kit.

“Your family needs you, Minato..” she spoke softly and laid her head on top of Minato’s thighs.

Minato suddenly felt hot in the face but he rolled his eyes, slowly moving his hand to pet Kushina’s bright red hair.

“Paaa!”, Naruto suddenly made himself known. “You are silly!” He giggled and went to hug his dad’s head. Kushina immediately relaxed and let out a scent of pure happiness.

“Who are you calling silly?! You are silly!” she showed her tongue to her son. Naruto just laughed louder.

Kushina smiled and went to smooch Naruto’s marked cheek. He laughed even louder, appreciating the way his parents gave him attention.

“Of course I will, honey.”, she finally answered her husband. “Besides, I knew he would want to go today and good timing as I have to return the cookbook Mikoto let me borrow."

Kushina took Naruto by his waist and removed him from his mother’s lap.

“Go get ready!” Kushina ordered Naruto and he gladly accepted her order, knowing the faster he gets ready the faster they will leave for Sasuke’s house.

As Naruto ran to the hallway and to his room, Kushina sat on the floor next to her mate.

“I love him so much it hurts sometimes,” she started, speaking so quietly, almost like she feared it would all disappear. “And I love you so much too.” she spoke softly, turning her head to look into her mate’s sapphire eyes.

Minato smiled, placing his hand on his wife’s cheek. “I love both of you so much I would do anything for both of you.”

Kushina smiled then chuckled, “Even give up your position as Fourth Hokage?”

“Even give up being Hokage.” he replied without needing to think about it.

At first, there was a glimpse of shock on Kushina’s face, then she chuckled, “You silly man.” she said, closing her eyes and pressing her forehead onto her husband’s, “But I would do the same, in a heartbeat.”

Minato closed his eyes and just breathed in his wife’s scent. She always smelled wonderful. From the first time he smelled her he knew it would be his favorite scent forever. He could never get enough of her sea and salted scent. It was exactly like her, it fit her so well. And it complimented Minato’s own scent. Bit tamer and more mellow, vanilla and flowery scent.

“I’m ready!!”, Naruto yelled, suddenly interrupting his parents' moment. They both got startled and moved away from each other.

“Let’s gooo~!”, Naruto yelled, again.

“Okay okay I am coming you brat!”, Kushina barked without bite. She turned to look at her mate one last time and kissed him softly. Her kisses always calmed Minato down. Sometimes so much he would immediately start purring, like he did now.

Kushina broke the kiss and chuckled. She always said how she loved how easily he could purr and get so relaxed.

“Bye, Minato!”

“Bye, Ma!”

“Bye, you two! Have fun!”

Both Kushina and Naruto yelled at him as they left the house but not before Naruto also prepared Minato’s face with kisses.

He could never be outdone by his Pa and the number of kisses she gives him in a day. Minato would never understand that unspoken rivalry over kissing him his son and wife have. But he doesn’t mind, really. He would rather get smothered to death by his two people than get none.

He was a happy and content omega who loved his mate, kit and village so much. What more could he ask for?

-

“Hi auntie!”

“Hello Naruto-kun! Sasuke is in his room, already waiting for you.”

“Okay! Thanks, auntie” and then he runs off.

“No running! What did I tell you?!” Kushina yells after her kit but it’s all useless, he is already halfway across the house. Damn Minato and him being the fastest shinobi. Of course Naruto inherited that trait.

Mikoto chuckles, putting a hand over her mouth. “It’s okay, Kushina. I don’t mind.”

“Oh, it’s not that, I know you don’t mind but you know Naruto. He is so clumsy he will fall and break his arm. Again.” Kushina retorts letting out a long, tired sigh.

Mikoto chuckles again, being well informed with Naruto’s clumsiness. How many times has he already fallen somewhere in their house? Being it from the engawa, couch or even on the straight floor. But he is always okay. Perks of being a kid.

“Come inside, the tea is waiting for us.” Mikoto slides to the side letting Kushina in.

As they sat down in the living room to drink tea they heard their kits run around. Kushina can already feel her headache coming again. Naruto just can’t sit still, he is too- and she doesn’t like to use that word- untamable, sometimes. She fears it will rub on Sasuke.

Mikoto chuckles again. “Kushina, you worry too much. Naruto and Sasuke just love to play around. They are still young kits.”

“I know I know..” Kushina wails, letting her upper body fall on top of the table. “It’s just.. well, he can be quit.. neurotic. I fear it’s gonna rub off on Sasuke.”

“Ah Kushina, so what? It would be nice to have a kit who is well.. not so dull.” She tries to whisper the last part. But to no avail- as her luck seems to run out- her oldest walks in just as she said that.

She looks at him as a deer caught in headlight and stops moving completely. Kushina turns around confused as to why her friend is suddenly so quiet and lo and behold, the oldest kin is standing at the entrance to the living room, also not moving.

“Nice one auntie!” Kushina suddenly hears another voice and behind Itachi his best friend appears; Shisui.

Mikoto looks even paler, if that is even possible.

“A-ah Itachi.. that’s not what I meant..” Mikoto hurries to explain herself and stumbles on her words. Kushina rarely sees her friend this flustered. So Kushina decides to save her friend.

“Ah Itachi-kun! I haven’t seen you for so long!” Kushina turns around and smiles at Itachi, then moves her gaze to Shisui, “And you! Where have you been?! I haven’t seen you run around for so long!”

“We saw each other yesterday.” Itachi speaks up. And well.. that is the truth. She actually saw them both yesterday in Minato’s office in Hokage’s mansion. They came to drop off some paperwork and Kushina was there just to spend some time with her mate.

Most days she would go and annoy her mate while he is working. Most days she is also bored at home because Naruto always runs off to do some mischief with Sasuke. Naruto is very persuasive, she thinks. Because she really doesn’t know how else he would be able to get Sasuke to run around the village terrorizing vendors and shop assistants.

Her normal day would consist of making sure her boys ate their breakfast and then just when Minato leaves Naruto would jump out of the window already long gone to get Sasuke. Then she would clean up a bit- only a bit- because soon after a shinobi from patrol would come knocking on her door to come and get Naruto.

He is never doing anything bad, well nothing too bad. He is just running around and accidentally knocking down a few stalls, or accidentally forgetting to buy a toy or mask he tried on.

But even he sometimes pranks out of pure spite. Like last week when he threw a water balloon at a vendor because he refused to sell him a toy.

But she understands. She knows why he is acting out. She is surprised he isn’t doing it more often, considering how rude some vendors can be.

So she always picks him up, gives money for the damage he has done and goes home, dragging him by his ear and giving him a talking. All while Sasuke stands nearby. How exactly he roped him into all of this, is still a mystery to her.

“Ah Itachi, I’m so sorry! I didn’t mean it like that!” Mikoto speaks up.

“It’s okay mom. I know.” Itachi assures her mom coming to peck her on the cheek. She instantly releases some happy pheromones. Mostly to scent Itachi a little bit.

“Yeah, auntie! We know he is dull.” Sishui cackles and Itachi glares at him.

“What are you up to boys?”

“I was just showing Itachi some cool moves!”

“Oh? Did he learn anything?” Kushina asked as Shisui finally moved next to the table.

“Yes! He is a quick learner. I showed him some shuriken tricks and he immediately understood them. I am not even surprised anymore.”

Kushina laughed loudly at this and spoke, “Oh Shisui, soon you won’t have anything to teach him! He is going to be teaching you soon!”. Shisui laughed at that, clearly imagining that.

“Auntie…”

“Oh Shisui, it seems like we are embarrassing Itachi.” she smirked, looking at Itachi who was now sitting next to his mother, almost burying his face in her neck. Mikoto tried so hard not to join their banter but was failing. She had to hold a hand over her mouth, but even then a few giggles escaped her trapped mouth.

Next to her Itachi burned. Now trying to hide his tomato red face somewhere else, as his mom also joined the teasing.

“We have to go now.” Itachi somehow got the courage to speak and rushed to stand.

He glanced quickly towards Shisui but made the mistake of looking directly at Kushina. He averted his gaze but it was too late, he saw her smirk. She was once more, dying of laughter. As well as three other people in the room.

He hurriedly left the room trying to escape their teasing.

“Thank you for your hospitality auntie!” Shisui spoke up and Mikoto smiled at him, waving him off.

“See you Kushina-sama!” Shisui yelled as he sped up his walk (almost running) to catch up with the escaped Itachi.

“They are so cute together.” red haired woman spoke up first. Mikoto blushed but nodded in agreement. That was all they got the time to ‘talk about’ as another pair of best friends hurried inside the room.

“Paa!” blue eyed boy squeaked, running to his Pa’s side. “We have to gooo~”

“Ah, Naruto! We know!” Kushina reassured him, pretending to swat him off by placing her palm on his face and sweating him away. He giggled at motion.

Opposite of them, a dark haired boy stood next to his mother holding her hand in his own, looking at the exchange his best friend and his Pa did. He smiled so softly it was almost unnoticeable.

“Was nii-san here?” He asked his mother so softly it was a pleasant change for Kushina.

“Yes, baby. He just left with Shisui-kun to train some more. Did you need him?” Mikoto explained to her second born as she slowly started to scent him too.

“No.. I just thought I heard him.” Was all the explanation Sasuke gave her. But he was already enjoying his mother’s scenting so he was kinda busy for talking right now.

Suddenly Kushina was pulled out of her trance as she watched the two Uchihas enjoying their bonding moment, “Paa!”

“You little punk!” Kushina playfully declared towards her own kit. “Yes we are going now.” she took him in her own arms and put him on her lap, getting the urge (as she watched the pair do the same) to scent her kit herself.

Yes, his Ma already scented him before they left so he smelled like his Ma. But scenting him now and mixing their scents together brought great comfort to kits.

Soon after they leave to go shopping, much to Naruto’s constant begging and pleading.

Kushina is not blind. She is not deaf either. She hears and sees every little whisper, every little look; nothing can escape her hawk eyes.

She knows her choices in life are being judged every day, especially now that her husband is Hokage. It is expected that he is judged, as she, an alpha, is a stay at home wife. Yes, there is much less judgement than before and alphas staying home and omegas working is now considered normal. But of course, not everyone thinks so. Not everyone liked the idea of an omega being Hokage either but her and her husband just love to push at villagers buttons. It’s funny, okay?

She just wants to protect her kit. He does not deserve any mean look, any mean word or insult thrown at him behind his back or in his face directly. She knows that even though her husband made it into basically a law- it is forbidden to speak about nine tails in front of Naruto or even mention it- but that doesn’t stop the people from whispering. From looking and being scared.

And yeah, if we are being honest, she understands the fear part, but to be so mean towards a kid who did nothing wrong ever? (Okay he can be a little shit but it’s like no one sees he does it because they do it first, they throw insults, looks and gestures. He is a kid who responds to that. Like any kid would.)

She knows. She knows deep in her bones, in her soul; one day, that awful night of October 10th is going to come and bite her in the ass.

But for now, she is going to enjoy looking at her kit laughing so brightly and widely at the world around him. His smile could outshine the sun and everyone around him.

She watches her son. She loves every little thing he does. How he adds an extra step in his walk. How he flails his hands around him as he walks around the village, carrying his bag of sweets he begged his Pa to buy for him so he and his best friend can eat when they get back in front of TV.

She watches them both. She watches how Naruto lights up when he is around Sasuke even more (if that is even humanly possible). How he goes out of his way to make him happy, to make him laugh, for Sasuke to pay attention to him and his antics.

But she watches Sasuke too.

A shy and pliant kit who hides behind his mothers legs when someone new approaches. A kid who looks only up to his brother and his brother only. A kid- which for some reason- is as attached to Naruto as Naruto is to him.

She cannot pinpoint, no matter how hard she tries, when all of this friendship and attachment for one another started. Sure, they were literally raised together and spent every waking hour together- hell, right now they are shopping together and they don’t even live that close to one another- but for that, Kushina is at fault. She and Mikoto did that. So for them it just became normal.

But the more Kushina looks at them she understands more and more how opposite they are of one another. Sasuke: shy, calm and smart kid and Naruto, hyper, outgoing and kinda-not-so-bright. Polar opposites. Definitely not two peas in a pod. But definitely attached to one another.

She would often joke with Mikoto, “Naruto is like a golden retriever! So energetic, hyper, outgoing and well.. a bit dumber. But Sasuke is definitely a black cat! So shy, pliant, calm and smart! They are polar opposites. How they became best friends.. ah, I really don’t know.”

And at that Mikoto would just chuckle and look lovingly at their pups. “I love to think of them as the sun and the moon. Polar opposites but attached to one another. There isn’t one without the other.” She would say and slowly pet her son’s hair as he lay sleeping in his mothers lap.

“I know that one day they will be inseparable. Just as the sun and the moon are.”

And Kushina agrees. She is glad, delighted that her son has someone like Sasuke beside him. Someone who would look after him just as Naruto would after Sasuke. She is glad to know that he has someone.

She doesn’t want to admit it but the truth is the truth. He is already rejected from society. People are judging him, they fear him but haven’t even met him. It pains her dearly. But just a look at two kids walking in front of her, one babbling about everything and nothing and jumping around while the other looks at him with a small smile, so small it is almost unnoticeable. So intrigued by the story he cannot even pretend he isn’t interested in it.

As they get back to Uchiha compound, they walk past several stalls, stopping at a few.

At one particular stall the kids arrive first- of course, as the stall in question is a toy stall- and look around in awe.

Just as Kushina and Mikoto arrive they see a scene unfolding. A salesman holding Naruto by his shirt, it is very clear he wanted to grab at the back of his neck but luckily didn’t. Naruto just flails around, yelling at the man holding him by the shirt and yelling back in Naruto’s face. Just when Kushina and Mikoto arrive, they see a scene unfolding.

In a quick and swift move, Sasuke dashes on the ground, kicking a man with his own legs. A man instantly thumbles backwards and Naruto uses the moment of this man’s weakness to escape him and land on his feet next to Sasuke.

A loud crash is heard as the man falls butt first on his own toys and crushes some.

“Ha! That’s what you get for being mean, mister!” Naruto yells at the man, crossing his arms and looks down at the man who is whining in pain.

“Naruto! Sasuke!” Mikoto exclaims in utter horror and both boys turn to look at their parents.

“What the..” Kushina starts but decides against finishing her sentence. Just because a situation is calling for the worst curses ever, she decides the boys don’t need to know them… Yet.

The man looks up, ready to yell at whoever is disturbing him in his self pitying and whining session, only to be met with Kushina’s dark stare. The man’s eyes immediately widen and he starts stuttering.

“K-Kushina-sama!” The man starts, but clearly does not know how to begin or end his sentences.

“What did you do to my son.” It’s not even a question. She saw exactly what happened and how rude the man was towards her son. She also knew exactly why this man acted the way he did. ‘This damned village.’ She curses.

“Kushina-sama! I-I.. I didn’t-!”

“Didn’t what? Didn’t hold my son by his shirt and yelled at him? What could have a five year old do that calls for such treatment?”

“H-he! He was causing ruckus!” The man tries.

But doesn’t succeed.

Kushina turns toward the boys, still holding their guard (Kushina would be so proud of them being so strong if she wasn’t overcome with so much rage).

“Naruto, Sasuke, what did this man do?”

“Pa! This man just started yelling! He was so angry, I swear his eyes went red and we didn’t even approach the stall properly! Y’know how I got some allowance money?” Naruto asks and Kushina nods, “Well I saw a plushie I reaaaally wanted to give to Sasuke cuz’ now I got some money but this man! He didn’t even let me look at it! He just started yelling to get out, that monsters don’t deserve any toys and then he just grabbed me by my shirt! My shirt with the clan’s icon, Pa!” Naruto yelled, defending himself and explaining all in one breath.

Kushina nods and looks at Sasuke (she swears she saw just a brush of pink on pale boys cheeks), then she encourages him to talk.

“Yes, that is what happened. We came, didn’t even get to ask anything when he came rushing and grabbed Naruto by his shirt.”

Kushina thanked Sasuke and turned again towards the man, now kneeling in front of her feet.

“Now why would I believe anything you say over my son and his friend?”

“Kushina-sama! I-I really didn’t mean it like t-that!”

“Just.. shut it. I do not have the nerves to deal with you now so you will shut up and listen.” Kushina barked, using her alpha voice at the man who just whined, fighting the urge to not bare his neck at her. So a beta then.

“I won’t do anything to you, right now. But, I will tell my husband what transpired today and he will decide if he wants to close you or not. But be prepared, you will be closed down sooner or later.” the man whimpers, she is now full on releasing pheromones and suffocating the man in her pheromones.

“Also, no one, and I mean noone, treats my son like you did. And you won’t do that ever again. What kind of toy seller picks up a kid and yells at him while said kid just wanted to buy a toy?”

“I am sorry! I am so sorry!” The man pleads, clearly overwhelmed with her pheromones and anger radiating from her body. “Please! Let your son and his friend take anything they want”

Kushina signals Naruto and Sasuke to do just that. So Naruto walks over to the small green dino plushie and picks it up.

“Now apologize to my son.” Kushina barks as Naruto stands in front of her.

“I am sorry Naruto! I promise to never do that again! Please forgive me!” Beta pleads. Naruto just nods and turns to walk away.

He walks up to Sasuke and pushes into Sasuke’s arms the toy he just picked up. “Here, I wanted to get this for you..” Naruto mumbles almost half of it into his chin but Sasuke catches all of it, blushing profusely.

“Thank you, Naruto.. I really like it.” Sasuke thanks Naruto and in his really Naruto way, strokes the back of his neck and smiles widely, blush still evident on both of their faces.

The two of them turn to walk away and Kushina stays with the beta man, crouching to speak to him.

“You are lucky I won’t do anything to you today. But if I just so hear you did anything to Naruto or just looked at him the wrong way,” she whispers now, “I will make sure I am the last thing you see.”

With that she stands up, brushes her pants and walks off to catch with the rest of her gang.

The man still in front of her mind but she relaxes as she gets a smell of her kit and her husband’s scent still radiating off of Naruto. She relaxes immediately.

“Oh Kushina, I am so sorry that happened.. I can’t even imagine how Naruto must feel right now.” Mikoto speaks softly towards Kushina so only she can hear her and places a comforting hand on the alpha woman.

Alpha just stares right in front of her at the two boys, walking, talking, laughing.. same as they did not even five minutes before, just like nothing happened.

But she sees it. She notices, of course she does, it is her kit in question.

She notices how his smile is not as wide as before, she notices the missing step in his walk, she notices how he tries to calm down and not attract more unnecessary attention and- it breaks her heart.

She wants to pick him up in her arms, cuddle him close and run, run as far away as she can and protect him from his cruel world.

But she can’t. She knows she can’t and it's cruel. It’s torturing.

But then she also notices how a certain dark haired, big black doe eyed boy next to her son acts. She notices the way he now walks closer to her son, she notices how he scours all of the people and vendors before they pass them, she notices how he is now watching Naruto closer, like he is waiting to pick him up if he breaks.

And that..

It warms her heart.

So much.

She smiles, then chuckles and Mikoto looks at the alpha next to her bedazzled.

Kushina wraps a hand around her friend's waist and leans her head closer into her neck. She gestures to Mikoto to just look at them, and so Mikoto does. She looks and looks- and she sees it. She sees it all Kushina just did.

Then she also relaxes, she tightens her grip around the alpha and lets loose a bit.

“They will be just alright.” Mikoto just whispers to her friend.

Kushina lets out a breath she didn’t even know she was holding and then nods.

“Yeah.. they will.”

-

Much later in the day, when the atmosphere is calmer and night has fallen, it is time for Kushina and her kit to go home. Soon it’s gonna be his bed time and he really has to learn when it is time to go to sleep.

So reluctantly- even though they have been at Uchiha’s home for half a day- she starts to get going.

Both Fugaku and Itachi have returned home already, one from work and one from training. So it really is time for them to leave.

Both Kushina and Mikoto decided to peek into Sasuke’s room, it was too quiet and whenever it is too quiet it’s no good.

But this time, a nice surprise has welcomed them.

Both boys sprawled on Sasuke’s bed inside some bit messy and falling apart- nest.

It is the first nest either of them made, it is hard to say which one as they haven’t witnessed the making of it, but it really doesn’t matter. Kushina, and Mikoto, are just glad their sons knew what to do when in distress and after such an emotionally hard day.

They both lay sprawled, each boy on one side of the nest and in between a green dino plushie, the same one Naruto has gifted Sasuke earlier today.

It is a sweet moment, neither wanting to break them apart and ruin their much needed rest. Both definitely deserved one. But it became clear that they had been standing in front of the door for too long as both Itachi and Fugaku came to see what was happening. But both also endeared in their brother’s and son’s (and his friend’s) shenanigans.

But it really is time to go. So Kushina slowly and carefully picks up Naruto in her arms, trying- and succeeding- in not waking up either of them.

She bids her farewells and leaves with Naruto on her back, sleeping like a log.

When she returns to their home Minato is sitting in the same position he was when they left. And of course his wife has to tease him about it.

“Did you move at all today?” she mocks in a quiet tone, bending slowly to kiss her husband's forehead.

“I will have you know I even went to the office, they needed me for a moment there.” Minato defends himself and kisses his son's head.

Kushina leaves to put Naruto in his bed. Covering him with his yellow colored bed sheet and kisses his head before exiting the room, already thinking of how to best approach her husband with what has transpired today.

When she returns to the living room, Minato is already sitting on the couch, seemingly waiting for his wife to come to him and cuddle him and add a little bit of scenting, like they always do before going to bed.

She smiles at her husband and goes to him. And she tells him everything that has happened today. His face changed according to the story: from soft to anger, from anger to pure satisfaction and in the end, pure love and adorness.

When Kushina finishes retelling everything to him, Minato lets out a huge breath and looks in front of him. Clearly trying to gather his thoughts.

“Well, one thing is certain, that man will never again run a business, I can guarantee that much.” Minato tries to lighten up the mood and Kushina lets out a breathy laugh.

“Yeah, I figured as much.”

Minato nestles inside her arms, laying his head just under her chin and wraps his hands all around her body. She instantly relaxes, not even noticing the tension she held in her body until she got her mate in her arms.

She instantly starts to scent him and Minato purrs, the exact way he does when he is content and at peace.

They stay like that for a while. Just existing in each other's arms, TV low enough to create some noise.

After a while Minato speaks up, “I am glad Naruto has Sasuke.”

Kushina hums in agreement.

“And Sasuke has Naruto.”

“That he does.”

They both chuckle and settle back in their moment.

This time Kushina speaks up first, “Some days I just want to take Naruto in my arms and shield him from the world, never letting him down.”

This time, Minato hums in agreement.

“And some days, I hate us for what we did.”

This time, no one says anything.

Seconds, minutes, moments pass and neither say anything.

They don’t have to say anything, they both know it all. They have been through this conversation a million times already and Naruto is only five. This time they don’t need reassurance, they don’t need to talk. They just need each other and their son sleeping calmly and soundly in the room next to them.

After a few moments Minato speaks up, “I am really glad Naruto has Sasuke and vice versa.” he says then continues after a moment passes.

“What they have, only a few of us found.”

Kushina hums in agreement and cuddles more into her husband.

Tomorrow is a new day, a new beginning. In the morning Minato will go to work, Naruto will go around the village with Sasuke and cause mischief and Kushina will yell after them.

Next year Naruto will officially start training to become shinobi.

And a few years after that, he will have his own team.

Then he will present, become a proper shinobi, get a partner and finally; have a family of his own.

But all of that is all a long way down the road. Now, both Kushina and Minato lay together, sharing and relishing in their mixed scents.

Now is perfect.

Chapter Text

Summer has come and gone in swift motion. Like the breeze on a hot summer day. Nothing particularly fun has happened that is worth mentioning. Same old like every day in his life. Waking up, eating breakfast with his family then running out and hanging out with Sasuke. It is all the same old stuff he did every summer.

Most memorable thing that happened was swimming almost every day in the river outside of Konoha. On other days, they would hang out in Uchiha compound or at Naruto’s place, but only when it got so hot their parents wouldn’t let them leave the house. Only after 5pm could they leave the house and play on the local playground in Uchiha compound.

In the evening they would hang out on the pier in Uchiha’s compound. It was a beautiful pier, especially at night when stars and fireflies were the only ones giving light to guide your step. Naruto really didn’t understand how more people don’t come here everyday.

Naruto also attended Uchiha’s annual summer festival. He has never attended before so he was excited to see it with his own two eyes. Every year when the festival was around the corner it would be the only thing Sasuke could think and talk about. How beautiful the moon is, how beautiful the candles on the ground around the compound were and how lively it was on the streets. Merchants everywhere you look with lots of toys to buy and try out, and the family meal Mikoto makes that just gets tastier and tastier every year.

Naruto was so excited when Sasuke asked him one hot summer day to attend this year’s festival. Naruto gladly accepted.

So the following weekend he finally attended the festival. And Sasuke was right. It was absolutely mesmerizing. He wanted to whine and be mad at Sasuke for not inviting him sooner to the festival but he was so mesmerized by the view and hot meal Mikoto made, he found no strength to do so. He was just glad he got to experience it with his best friend and his family.

When it was time to light the candles, Itachi brought two candles, for each of them. Itachi, alongside Shisui, helped the boys with lighting their respective candles by using Fire Style Jutsu. Naruto was, once again, amazed. He knew all Uchiha’s where fire breathers and could use fire in Jutsu’s, but to use it this well and to see it up front -even though it was just to light the candle- he was still amazed.

So all in all, it was a good summer.

It was also the last summer of freedom, as tomorrow is their first day of the Academy.

Naruto was so excited, he couldn’t calm down. He was buzzing with excitement. He couldn’t wait to meet new friends, learn new Jutsu’s, new Shuriken tricks- how to be a proper Shinobi.

So when the sun illuminated its first rays, Naruto was already dressed and ran to the kitchen.

“Someone is up earlier than usual.” his mom teased.

“Yes! I have to be! I am officially starting to train to be a proper shinobi. I have to get used to waking up early!” he exclaimed and sat down at the table. His mom just chuckled.

“Good thinking.” he said and continued to cook the eggs he was making.

Soon after, Kushina came to the kitchen and kissed buzzing Naruto on the head. She slid next to her husband and kissed him on the mouth. Naruto made a ‘blurgh’ sound when he saw the scene, closing his eyes.

Kushina rolled her eyes, “When you grow up you will also kiss your mate.”

“Noo! I won’t! God Pa, that’s eww!” Naruto moaned, averting his gaze. How could anyone just want to kiss? Naruto really couldn’t understand that.

Minato just giggled at his son’s antics, already used to them.

They ate together like a family, the only difference in Naruto’s eating habits. Usually he would eat two plates of breakfast, today he could barely finish one.

But it is okay, his mom made him a bento box, full of his favorite stuff.

The closer the time was to leaving, Naruto was becoming more impatient. Groaning loudly and whining for his parents for being too slow, hurrying them and explaining how ‘they will be late to opening and Hokage has to be there on time’ or how ‘he cannot miss his first day’ or even worse, ‘make Sasuke and his family wait’.

So they arrived just in time.

He could see the black haired family of four already waiting in front of the Academy gates. Naruto sprinted towards them.

“Hii Sasuke!” Naruto was now practically yelling from excitement, then he went on to greet everybody else, honorifics long forgotten.

“Are you ready, Naruto-kun?” Itachi asked and smiled softly, seeing how Naruto was buzzing from excitement.

“Oh, yes! I cannot wait to learn everything I can and become the world's greatest shinobi!”

Sasuke let out a breathy laugh of disbelief.

“What’s so funny, Sasuke?!”

“The fact that you think you will be the world's greatest shinobi when it’s obviously gonna be me!”

“Nu-hu! That’s gonna be me, you..! You..! You dumbass!”

“Pft! As if!” Sasuke pestered and Naruto just got more annoyed. It was obvious how the title of ‘world’s greatest ninja’ belonged to him, even though there wasn’t any criteria and it was definitely made up by Naruto himself.

Their parents, alongside Itachi, laughed at their antics, clearly too familiar with their harmless bickering.

As they entered the Academy’s yard they were met with looks from many families and their kids. Sasuke instantly stopped bickering and got close to his mom. Naruto on the other hand also got quiet, but only so he could see potential friends. He was still so excited.

They went on and took their perspective places- next to one another- with their families behind them.

Minato took that as a sign it was time to say a few welcoming words.

“It is always a pleasure to stand here, in front of the new generation of shinobi. Today, you will begin your shinobi training. You will learn how to be a proper shinobi and one day protect and represent your village, Konoha.” Minato spoke.

“You will learn a lot of things. I am sure most of you already know a little bit of what you will learn but to sum it up: you will learn how to wield your chakra and control it. But of course, it is also a school so you will have to learn some general knowledge about the world that surrounds you.” Minato continued.

Sasuke swore he could feel Naruto practically buzzing from excitement next to him. Naruto was so happy to finally train and become the world's greatest ninja. Sasuke shared the excitement. He will finally learn useful stuff; he will finally be able to get his father’s acknowledgement.

He glanced at his family (father). They all stood there. High and proud listening to Naruto’s Ma give formal speech to welcome them at the beginning of their new path in life.

Sasuke would not lie. He was as excited as Naruto was.

Maybe a little less, as he is not literally buzzing from excitement like someone.

Sasuke completely stopped listening to Minato and stared at Naruto, looking at him carefully from the corner of his eye.

Naruto was so happy. The happiness and excitement radiating through him. Even though Naruto couldn’t scent yet, Sasuke swore if he could he would feel everything Naruto is right now.

Sasuke smiled. A small (but still there) smile. How could he not? He guessed Naruto’s happiness was just contagious.

He really loved having Naruto in his life. Especially now, when everything is new and confusing.

Of course Sasuke is definitely not incapable of doing this himself; but having Naruto next to him eases something in him. He feels lighter, knowing Naruto is always next to him.

Minato finished his speech and let the kids follow their teachers into the academy.

All the parents already left and it was time for Minato to leave too as he is, well, needed at Hokage’s mansion
to have another meeting.

But before he left he searched for a man with a high ponytail and brown eyes. When their eyes met a man just nodded in all seriousness and when his gaze averted, he continued in a high and all smiley tone. Like nothing happened.

Minato just chuckled as he left for his office, instantly at ease.

-

Naruto couldn’t be more bored.

Why hasn’t anyone told him that the academy is boring?!

“Well, Itachi and I did try to explain: you will not instantly get to do cool stuff. You just didn’t want to listen.” Sasuke snickered.

“Hmph!” Naruto crossed his arms, “I only thought academy would be a bit more fun, that’s all..”

Sasuke chuckled but his smile flatlined as he saw a group of other students talking and looking at him and Naruto every once in a while.

Sasuke instantly tensed and got closer to Naruto.

It isn't like he is scared, okay? He just.. well, he just doesn’t like new people. He is just.. a bit shy.

On the other hand Naruto was delighted. Of course he was. He liked talking to anyone who would (or wouldn’t) listen.

So he waved at the group in front of them.

The group instantly tensed and ignored his attempts of getting acquainted.

Naruto (and Sasuke) almost couldn’t believe it. Why were people so weird and unfriendly towards them both? When Sasuke thinks about it, for the whole day people have been ignoring them and whispering amongst themselves.

To be fair, Sasuke didn’t notice it at first, as he had no intentions of getting close to anyone other than Naruto. But Naruto was another story. He wanted to meet people, to talk to them, to widen his social circle and make new friends.

Sasuke definitely wasn't bothered by that. At all.

But he did feel bad for his friend, being ignored and literally gossiped about right in front of his face. He didn’t know how to help exactly in the friend making department as his only friend was Naruto and even with Naruto he wasn’t sure how he made that happen. Maybe the fact that their parents made them hang out since the moment they were born, and maybe a little of Naruto being consistent and winning Sasuke’s love.

To ease Naruto’s sadness, Sasuke invited him to his place after school. He knew Naruto would like that idea and he liked it alright, Naruto instantly lit up when Sasuke expressed his idea.

So together they went to Uchiha compound. Both of the boys loved Uchiha compound, to both of them it felt like home; full of life and familiar faces. Even though Naruto wasn’t an Uchiha himself he still liked going there, he even knew all the aunties and uncles and they all knew him.

That was until today.

As they were walking around the usual street full of vendors, they noticed a new food shop. And as they were still kids, they had to check it out. But the moment they got closer the vendor told them to move it. Sasuke was surprised and so was Naruto. What kind of food shop won’t do business with the kids? It had so many different kinds of sweets there.

But Sasuke let it go, what could he do if the vendor won’t sell them anything?

Naruto on the other hand had another idea.

If you ask Sasuke how all of this happened he couldn’t tell you. But one moment Naruto was scheming something and the other he was crashing into the shop, breaking many of the stalls.

Sasuke laughed. The vendor didn’t.

Sasuke’s worst nightmare came through; his dad was called.

Next thing Sasuke knew was kneeling in front of his father with Naruto in tow, listening to his father scold them for making a mess and ruining a shop.

“I expected better from both of you. I expected more from you, Sasuke.”

Sasuke’s gut clenched, his head hanging even lower; wanting the earth to open and swallow him. He hated getting scolded by his father.

“Uncle! Don’t scold Sasuke! It was all my idea, I am the one who did it!” Naruto spoke up, defending Sasuke. Now, he wanted the whole earth to open and swallow them both.

His father said nothing at first, but then he spoke. “Both of you did something bad, both of you will answer for it. No matter if it was your idea or Sasuke’s, Sasuke was still there with you and did nothing. That is what it means to be a team, you both are at fault here.” Fukagu said, “Do better.” He finished and left.

Both continued to sit there, not moving at all.

”Man, when will they realise it’s not us who are at fault. He started it!” Naruto argued, now sitting up on his hands and looking at the spot Fukagu stood mere moments ago.

”We are at fault, Naruto.” Sasuke spoke.

“How can you even say that?!”

“‘Cuz it’s true!”

”No, it isn’t!”

“You-“

”Woah! What are you two arguing about?!” A sudden voice came through and in the room stepped first Shisui and then Itachi.

Now more than ever did Sasuke want the earth to swallow him. To be scolded by his father, fine. But to be scolded by his father and brother; disgraceful.

”Shisui! Itachi!” Naruto wailed and began explaining everything that has transpired today. Sasuke is still not looking from the spot on the floor.

Both boys listened patiently to Naruto rambling about what has transpired today, letting Naruto vent it all out. Not once has Sasuke raised his head to look at his brother, his friend or even Naruto.

When Naruto finally finished his rant everyone fell silent. Next thing Sasuke knew was being wrapped in warm and loving arms. It was his brother, hugging him and holding him close. Slowly letting out his scent to calm him and reassure him.

Itachi was still young and hasn’t presented yet but he was getting a hold of scenting and controlling his scent. His scent still wasn’t fully developed and he still mostly smelled like his parents, but if you really smelled him, a hint of his own scent was slowly beginning to form.

Sasuke didn’t mind that his brother’s scent wasn’t developed or that he smelled like their parents. He liked the way his brother embraced him, trying to calm him down and ease his mind. And it was effective. So effective that almost instantly Sasuke melted in his embrace, calming his racing mind and relaxing; feeling like yello.

Itachi also pulled Naruto in his arms. It wasn’t usual to see someone who isn’t related to a kit scent them, but it was Naruto; he was family and Itachi’s scent was more than welcome after a day they both had. Naruto also instantly melted in Itachi’s arms, giving up his defense and reeling in attention and warmth Itachi gave them both.

Shisui sat there behind them, looking with fondness at this little family. He couldn’t help but let out his, more stronger and more harsh but still nice and calming scent, letting everyone in the room know he is also happy and content.

The day was hard, but as long as they all had each other; everything would be fine.

-

A few days have passed. Then a few weeks. Then two months.

Now, they were all extra busy.

Going to school everyday, having to study and do homework. It was a lot.

Sasuke studied it all and did all of his schoolwork, even some extra stuff on the side, just so he could be better at being a shinobi. He wasn’t that smart or a nerd per say, but nonetheless, he was on top of his class. His regular classes, taijutsu classes, jutsu classes, you name it; he was on top of them all.

Because of his good work, him being on top of his class; other students have started noticing him. Now, he had a lot more people coming to him, praising him, asking him for tips or just in hopes to be friends. He never reciprocated the gestures. He went on with his days normally: going to school, listening in class, coming home, studying, practicing his work and then hanging out with Naruto.

Speaking of Naruto, he was- as usual- complete opposite of Sasuke.

He was failing all of his classes, being on the bottom of the list in all their classes and he barely understood what the teachers were saying. On top of that, even more people- because of his grades- were avoiding him now and making fun of him.

For Naruto, school was shit.

He hated waking up and going to school. Why did he even have to go? He could learn it all at home! What was even the point of grades?

He tried, he tried so hard to make friends, anyone who would talk to him. Noone ever did. He never understood why. Was it really that bad that he had the worst grades in the whole academy? Was it really the whole reason he has no one?

Well, no one besides Sasuke. He was still here. Sasuke would always be by his side.

Or so he thought.

Lately Sasuke has been receiving more attention than ever. And more people wanted to be his friend. And Naruto- once more- has felt all alone.

How come Sasuke is so good at everything he does? Is he some wizard to be able to do everything perfectly? Naruto had many thoughts like those running through his head.

He was happy for his friend, he really was. But it was hard seeing him be so perfect while he was so bad at everything.

To make things worse, a certain pink haired girl became attached to Sasuke. Always following him around, making heart eyes at him and trying her hardest for Sasuke to acknowledge her.

To be frank, it annoyed Naruto badly.

And not because Sasuke had it all. Okay, maybe a little, just a teeny tiny bit he was jealous of how perfect and awesome Sasuke was.

The thing that actually annoyed him the most was her. At first he liked her. The moment he saw her, he was delighted that someone appreciated Sasuke as much as he did. But every time Naruto tried to talk to her, he was ignored, pushed aside or yelled at. It was starting to get on his nerves. Every interaction he had with her made him feel even worse.

And today was nothing different.

“Sasuke-kun! You did so good today! How did you know everything? You are so amazing.” She squealed next to the table Naruto and Sasuke sat at. This was a perfect chance for Naruto to be acknowledged and befriended by her.

“Right! He did so well today! I am very proud of our Sasuke-kun, ehe!” Naruto exclaimed, grinning widely at the prefix he used for Sasuke. He never spoke to anyone like that, let alone Sasuke.

“Ugh, who asked you?” She responded at Naruto’s comment, crossing her arms glaring directly at Naruto.

Naruto’s face immediately fell down, averting his gaze from Sakura trying to seem invisible.

‘So this time it’s no different from before.’

“Who are you calling ‘Sasuke-kun’?” Sasuke suddenly spoke up, looking directly at Naruto, mischief in his eyes, smirking down at Naruto.

Naruto was a bit taken aback, not expecting Sasuke to press him further about the language he used. But he did, completely ignoring the pink haired girl that stood next to him, shock evident on her face from being ignored so blatantly.

Naruto grinned back at Sasuke, his mood and expression changing back to his shit-eating grin. “Ehh! You are ‘Sasuke-kun’! Are you not, Sasuke-kun?”

“Hmp.” Sasuke answered, still looking at Naruto, the only thing changing was his grin, slowly changing into a bigger one. “What are you? A four year old girl?” He questioned.

“Whaa-! Why can’t I say ‘kun’?!”

Sasuke’s smirk grew wider. “You are right. You have to call me ‘kun’. I am your elder after all.”

“Ehh?! No way you are using you being three months older than me excuse!”

“Well you insisted on calling me ‘kun’.”

“Dumbass! You-“

“Don’t call him a dumbass, you moron!” Suddenly a high pitched voice was heard next to them. When they turned to look at the owner of the voice they realized that suddenly they had an audience. In fact, almost the whole class was now looking at them and carefully listening to their banter.

Sasuke suddenly went quiet, his expression changing from shit eating to shy. He moved closer to Naruto, looking down at his hands in his lap.

Naruto was surprised. Both at how Sakura yelled at him and the class listening carefully to them.

Usually he would be able to handle all of this teasing, well it was pure rudeness but Naruto wouldn’t ever say it was. He liked to believe in people. But today, something was different. All the eyes on him are burning holes into his skin, snickering is echoing in his ears and everyone is too close to him; it’s suffocating.

So he got up and ran.

He could hear a voice calling after him but he ignored it. He couldn’t handle it. He couldn’t handle looking at anyone right now, not his classmates and especially not Sasuke. So he ran.

He ran through the halls of the academy. Bumping into people but not caring enough how they told him off.

He just didn’t understand it.

Why is everyone so mean?

Tears were slowly gathering in his eyes. But no tears actually fell as he bumped into someone, hard. So hard he fell right on his ass.

”Ah!” Naruto exclaimed, “Watch where you’re going!”

“Hah, you watch where you are going.”

Naruto let out a huff and finally looked up. He saw three boys standing in front of him. One was eating chips and one had a full on dog on his head. What is going on?

And the boy he- obviously- bumped into had a grin on his face looking annoyed at Naruto. And Naruto was instantly (and already in a mood) to fight him.

But the boy with the high ponytail never said anything. In fact, he gave him a hand, wanting to help him get up. Naruto accepted.

“I’m Shikamaru. This is Choji and these two are Kiba and Akamaru.” a boy with a high ponytail- called Shikamaru, as he introduced himself- introduced them all.

”I am Naruto.” he introduced himself. Still a bit cautious but feeling himself, all happy and excited to talk to someone.

“Well, Naruto, wanna join us? We are going to a playground.” Shikamaru asked. And Naruto couldn’t believe he heard right. He was so used to being cast aside and ignored by all his peers; but to someone actually wanting to hang with him? He really couldn’t believe what the boy was asking him.

”Yes! I would love to!” Naruto exclaimed, too happy and excited to contain his feelings. He is finally gonna have friends, someone to play around, someone to talk to.

“Ayy, let’s go then! I like this guy Shikamaru.”

“And I like you, Akamaru!” Naruto exclaimed. But suddenly he was met with an open jaw from ‘Akamaru’.

”EHHH?!” He suddenly exclaimed and Naruto didn’t know why he got that reaction out of the boy.

But he was met with whole hearted laughs from the other two boys. Like Naruto said the funniest joke they ever heard, but Naruto was still very confused.

When Shikamaru finally gathered himself he spoke, explaining their reaction, “Ah Naruto, that is Kiba not Akamaru. Akamaru is the dog.”

The real Akamaru barked.

Naruto was stunned into silence. Blush creeping up his cheeks and ears. How did he already make himself look dumb?!

”Ah.. Um.. I’m sorry Kiba, I didn’t catch the names.” Naruto responded and brought his hand to his neck, scratching it. It was a gesture he got from his Pa. He guessed he saw her do it so many times he just casually picked it up himself.

Kiba then laughed. “Ahh, it’s okay Naruto! It happens.” Naruto smiled back at Kiba.

“Well then, if we are all finally ready. Let’s go.” Shikamaru said and started walking towards the playground.

“Let’s go!” All the boys exclaimed at the same time and they ran off to catch up with long gone Shikamaru.

Naruto finally had more than one friend.

-

Sasuke decided to stay a bit longer after school. He decided he wanted to practice his shuriken.

This time, again, he had an audience. Why exactly people loved to watch him, he didn’t know. Yes, he was the best in his class but was he that good that every time he did something people just wanted to watch him?

It was already getting late and he had to go home and eat dinner with his family.

So he picked up all his shurikens and neatly arranged them in his bag. Suddenly, a hand with the rest of his shiruken’s was in front of him. As he looked up he saw a pink haired girl. Sakura.

“Here you go, Sasuke-kun!”

”Mn. Thank you.” Sasuke replied half heartedly. He wasn't comfortable with her. She liked to follow him around and tried her hardest to make him interested in what she was saying. He really wasn’t interested.

He started walking, thinking how he had to go and find Naruto. He hadn’t seen Naruto since he ran off hours ago. He had to find him now. It wasn’t like he was very worried that something bad happened to Naruto no, but they did walk home together everyday and he wanted to walk home with him today, too.

He soon realized that Sakura was walking next to him. He slowly glanced at her and she was already looking at him. She smiled softly at him. He instantly averted his gaze. And luckily he did as he saw a yellow flash run on the playground. It had to be Naruto.

“You want to go play, Sasuke-kun?” Sakura asked, from her voice it could be depicted she wanted to play with him.

But he shut it down instantly, “No. I am going to get Naruto and go home.”

Her face soured instantly. Sasuke soured back. What was her deal with Naruto? Yes, he could be annoying and loud, but he was Naruto. He meant well, and most importantly, he was Sasuke’s Naruto.

Naruto on the other hand was having the time of his life. Running around, laughing, throwing jokes. It was so much fun. He never wanted to leave.

But he noticed someone walking towards them. He instantly recognized the black haired boy walking towards him. Naruto couldn’t contain his smile. He was ready to bribe Sasuke into playing with him but his smile instantly fell and mood soured. Sakura was next to him, already throwing kunai at him with her looks.

“Naruto,” Sasuke started, “I am ready to go home.”

Naruto just stared at him. Usually, he would instantly follow Sasuke home. But today, when Sakura was standing next to him- throwing literal kunai at him- he didn’t want to. If he so wanted to hang out with her, who is Naruto to stop him?

“Nah, I think I will stay with them a little bit longer. You go on without me.”

Sasuke was- and that was saying it lightly- stunned. He tried so hard to not let his jaw drop. Did Naruto really deny going home with Sasuke?

So Sasuke just stared at Naruto. Not knowing what to say, what do you even say in this situation. Naruto looked really happy with, well, whoever those people were. At least he found someone to hang with.

Instead of saying anything (he didn’t even know what to say), Sasuke just turned on his heels and left. He was still too stunned, he couldn’t process what happened let alone speak.

He did feel another presence following him but he just sped up and left her behind. He just wanted to go home and be alone. Surrounded by familiar and comforting scents and fall into deep sleep.

He didn’t want to talk to anyone, not even his brother. So he ate as quickly as he could and retreated to his room, plopping face down on his bed; still stunned at Naruto’s words.

But of course, there was a knock on his door. And of course, it was Itachi.

”Sasuke,” he started. When Sasuke said nothing he sighed, walking and sitting next to Sasuke. His brother slowly petted his sides. Sasuke couldn’t lie and say it wasn’t nice, relaxing even. He liked when his brother comforted him.

“What’s wrong?” he asked. Sasuke let out a tiny noise. “Did something happen at school?” Sasuke grunted in a dismissive way.

Itachi hummed, “Was it Naruto?”. This time Sasuke didn’t say anything, and of course Itachi instantly realized, it was in fact, Naruto.

“Did Naruto say something?”

A tiny ‘yes’ was heard. Itachi, again, just hummed.

After a little more petting and comfortable silence, Sasuke spoke up.

“It was Naruto” he started, moving his head to look at his brother, “He.. he didn’t want to go home with me today. He rather stayed with his ‘friends’” Itachi let out a small giggle at the way Sasuke said ‘friends’ and Sasuke glared at him. “Sorry, go on.”

”He.. he never did that before. I was just.. I didn’t expect that.”

“So you were hurt by his words?”

A small silence. Then a tiny “Yes..”. Itachi giggled and ruffled his brother’s hair. Sasuke, once more, glared at him.

“Sasuke, your emotions are normal. It would be weird if you weren’t hurt by his actions and words.” Itachi reassured, “You were probably shocked at his words because he never did that before. But always remember, he is your best friend, your person. Don’t be jealous of him making new friends. I know how hard it was for him to make new friends, be happy someone finally talked to him. I am sure he is elated.”

Now, Sasuke didn’t think of it that way. He kinda felt bad now. But he didn’t hurt Naruto, he just felt shocked and confused at how Naruto refused to do something they have always done.

Sasuke just has to get used to the idea that times are changing and Naruto is literally the sun; everyone is drawn to him in an instant. He is always so bubbly and happy, yeah a bit dumb but always nice.

Suddenly Sasuke had a small smile pressed on his face alongside a blush covering his cheeks slowly. Itachi was taken aback with this. He never saw his brother have this kind of reaction for someone or something, his best guess; he was thinking of Naruto.

Itachi snorted and Sasuke was immediately pulled out of his thoughts to glare at his brother.

“Thinking of Naruto?” Itachi smirked.

Sasuke threw a pillow in his face.

“Get out, nii-san!”

“Okay, okay!”

As Itachi was leaving the room he turned his head to face Sasuke once more.

“Will you help me tomorrow with my shuriken practice..?”

Itachi giggled, “Of course.”

Sasuke smiled and dozed off in minutes, thinking of tomorrow and how he is going to practice with his brother.

Just before Sasuke fell asleep he felt a presence on his window.

Then came a knock.