Naruto Fan Fiction ❯ Cutting Through It All ❯ Getting Through It All ( Chapter 2 )
[ Y - Young Adult: Not suitable for readers under 16 ]
By: Crimsonreverse 
Anime/Manga: Naruto Fan Fiction | Genre(s): Romance / Drama / Angst / Shounen | Type: Yaoi | Uploaded On: 01.23.2009 | Pages: 2 | Words: 3.9K | Visits: 241 | Status: Work In Progress
Anime/Manga: Naruto Fan Fiction | Genre(s): Romance / Drama / Angst / Shounen | Type: Yaoi | Uploaded On: 01.23.2009 | Pages: 2 | Words: 3.9K | Visits: 241 | Status: Work In Progress
Your baby blues
So full of wonder
Your curly cues
Your contagious smile
And as i watch
You start to grow up
All I can do is hold you tight
Knowing clouds will raise up
Storms will race in
But you will be safe in my arms
Rains will pour down
Waves will crash all around
But you will be safe in my arms
"In My Arms"
Plumb
Chapter II
Getting Through It All
"I can't believe it, you made it through. I'm so proud of you Naruto!" Kushina threw her arms around her now graduated son as she felt tears fill within her eyes.
Naruto just chuckled at how silly she was being, but return the hug in return. Pressing a kiss to her forehead, he really couldn't take all the credit, especially when it came down to his schooling. "Thanks mom, but you should give yourself more credit." He simply replied, knowing his mother loved flattery.
A snort came from the older woman as she pulled away from the boy who has now become a man. Her bright blue eyes stared at him as a small smile drew on her lips. It's been one year and a half since the twins were born and Naruto became even more handsome than he did when he was sixteen. Now he stood at a proud height of 6'2" with shoulder length blond hair and the bluest eyes she ever seen. His baby features disappeared and now his face had the appearance of a man. He even started working out to develop quite a built around his arms and chest. No one would even believe that he actually had two kids, hell let alone one. Kushina let her smile widen as she took his hands into hers and held them firmly. All she could think about is her little boy is no longer her little boy. She was losing yet another part of her to the great world beyond the white fence.
Naruto on the other hand couldn't believe how time flew by so quickly. It only felt like yesterday he just gave birth to the twins (thought when he woke up and saw two identical babies he passed out again) and now he's moving onwards to fulfill his dream. After careful consideration and quick preparation, Naruto decided that it was time to leave his little town and travel to the city of Konoha. There he'll finally be able to breath better than he did here. He let out a sigh as he let his eyes travel pass his mother to the crowd of student dress in red and black gowns. Everyone around him chattered happily with each other as they embrace and said there last goodbyes. However as he kept within his visual journey, his eyes landed on one person. There standing next to his cousin and uncle was Neji. The brunette smiled warmly as he chatter animatedly about whatever.
He felt his heartbreak once again at the lost of not having him around. Sure, things between them wasn't as bad as it was a year ago, however there were issues still being avoided. Neji still doesn't want to take claim of his creation. Naruto couldn't believe that after all this time and proof that the twins were Neji's, the Hyuuga continued to deny. He even said he'll pay Naruto just to keep him from saying his kids were his. The blond refuse the offer but made him agree to this. When the time was right, he'll tell them. Now, he still felt uncomfortable around Neji and he couldn't keep the depression from returning as often as it did. That's why he wanted to go to the city. If he got away from Hokage, he would be away from Neji. It was better than going on knowing that just the mere sight of him would make the blond cry himself into a restless sleep.
"Naruto...oh my poor baby. It's going to be alright. Don't cry..." Kushina brushed his tears away that flowed freely down his tan cheek, knowing her son was unaware of his emotional breakdown. She knew he was look at Neji and it made her heart ache seeing him in this state of pain.
Naruto blinked a couple of time hearing his mother speak softly to him. Releasing that his cheeks were wet with tears, he closed his eyes. With his head slightly low, his long hair shield him from on viewer as he let out a shaky breath. He had to be strong, he had two wonderful children at home waiting for him. He had a mother, who thank god still looks like she isn't a day over twenty one to take care of. He had dreams in becoming the best doctor there is. He had to keep his hope up and wash away the darkness that continues to eat away his very soul piece by piece each day.
"I'm sorry mom, it's just...you know, it's hard." He whispered as he felt her arms encase him once more in an attempt to comfort him. Leaning against her shoulder, he let the rest of his tears flow as they dripped on Kushina's black dress.
Kushina whispered soft, soothing words to him as she rubbed his back. She knew how hard it was for him to fight his emotions. That's why she wanted him to get help, but he refused. However, she could sympathize with him completely. She's been a single parent since Naruto was three. Though their situation is different, she knew how it felt. Sighing deeply, she had to hold back her own tears when she thought about her beloved husband. God, how she missed him so and everyday she had to watch this boy in her arms grow to look more like him. It was enough for her to jump over the edge, but she hadn't. Now she wasn't going to let her only son do the same, especially to those precious angels known as her grandchildren.
"Now you listen to me Naruto Uzumaki. You will not be sad on this day after you worked so hard to get here. Today we'll have the biggest feast money could buy and enjoy these last moments before you leave. I know it's hard, but you still have me and I'm not going to leave you." She scold him gently, but it was true. She heard him give her a weak laugh, knowing that he was listening to her. "When your father died, I thought I was going to die. Every single day my soul was become weak as my heart continued to shatter with each step I took. However, I realized that I shouldn't be sad because I had a beautiful baby boy at home waiting for me. I knew that once I opened that door, the little blond haired boy would be there to greet me with a big hug and kiss. For eighteen years, I always awaited for those small jesters each approach home. It made me strong and look at how well that turned out. Now it's your turn because you have little ones at home watching to do the same thing. Don't disappoint them."
Naruto smiled warmly as he listen to his mother's words. She was right, he couldn't let his depression win. He had so much to live for now he was a family man. Regaining his composure, he looked down at him mom. "Thank you for so much. I don't know what I would do without you."
Kushina laughed loudly as she patted him on the back. "Well, I could name a few things. For one, if I didn't cook ramen the way you liked it, you would die. Oh let's not forget how you like your underwear pressed and starched. And also-"
Naruto let out a groan as he shook his head. Maybe he should rephrase the meaning 'without you'.
:D
Naruto and Kushina didn't arrive home until late. The sky just started to darken by time they reached their nice house. Pushing the door open, Naruto let out a loud sigh as he felt glad to be home. Today was a hellish day in his opinion and graduation took too long. Between his Valedictorian speech and the principal practically crying all over the place, he wanted to get out of there and quick. Once his diploma touched the palm of his hand, he wanted to scream for joy and hightail it home. Nevertheless, hie mother insist that he said goodbye to his friends since he won't see many of them. At first he didn't want to bother, but when his mother kicked him in the shin, he didn't have a choice. After saying goodbye to some of his friends (mostly Shikamaru and Haku) he left. Well, after he found his mom that was, who was chatting flirtatiously with Sarutobi-sensei.
Kicking off his shoes, he threw his cap on the hall table as he headed to the first place, the living room. Passing through the kitchen, he stopped to look at all the food that was placed on the table. He couldn't help but smile at all his favorite food, it's not like he ate ramen twenty-four seven. Going through the swinging door, he was greeted with a loud 'surprise!'. Grinning, he watched as his family and friends popped out of various places as they threw confetti at him. Taped to the ceiling was a nicely decorated banner of 'Congratulation at Graduating Naruto' colored in different mirids of crayons. Of course, when letting two one and half year old tanker with it, well you get the picture.
Behind him Kushina appeared as she smiled at her plan. It took careful plotting, but with the help of her mother and father, well you also get the picture. "Well it seems someone has given you a surprise party. Hm...I wonder who done it?"
"Mom, we all know you planned it, so stop following around."
Giggling, she threw her hands up in surrender as she approached her son. Ruffling his hair (she practically had to stand on the very tip of her toes) she nudged him playfully. "Yar Yar, but I don't get all the credit. Those two grandparents of yours are true masterminds." She pointed to the couple standing in the back, talking to Shikamaru.
Naruto smiled as he walked towards the couple. Standing next to a woman that looked like she was in her mid-thirties, he tapped her shoulder lightly getting her attention. Green eyes looked up at him as she let a toothy grin slip. Without warning, she laid a hard slap against his back that almost made him tumble forward. "Well, isn't it my grandson. God, who would have thought someone of your status could actually pass high school! Good job brat!" She said loudly, drawing the other two attention easily.
A faint blush covered his cheeks as he cough slightly from the impact. "Ah...yes, I remember you saying something about me being dumb. Proved you wrong ne baa-chan?"
The man standing next to her laughed loudly as he slipped his arm around her shoulders. Looking at Naruto, he winked at the boy. "Oh boy hun, the kid surely got spunk. Your going to let him get away with it?"
With a sly smile, she shook her head. "Not really, but I'll let him go this time. I can't kill the guest of honor or his mother will have my head."
"Damn right, mom. No one hurts my little Naru and get's away with it. No matter how annoying he may be." Kushina appeared in the scene as she held a brightly wrapped gift out to her only child.
Naruto smiled stupidly at his grandma who in returned stuck her tongue out at him. Chuckling, he looked at the box in his hand as he turned to his mom. "Who is this from?"
"That's from Dr. Umino and Kakashi. They said sorry for not being here, but Iruka had a double at the hospital and Kakashi's at home with Monami. She has a cold."
Naruto nodded as he tore at the box like a child during Christmas time. Opening the lid, he gasped loudly at the gift as he pulled it out for his family to see. Within his hands he held a Xbox 360 as he let out a cheer. Since they first came out he wanted one, but didn't bother asking his mom for it. Kushina eyes narrowed at the gift quickly snatching it away from him. Naruto turned to her with 'what the hell' clearly written on his face.
"I don't know why they got you this. You have two kids that needs your attention. So for now, it stays here with me and when you come to visit over the weekend, you can play it." She exclaim making the blond groan.
Just as he was about to complain to his mom about ruining his fun, two little yells echoed as the door to the kitchen opened. Two little sets of padded feet echoed on the floor as a blond and brown hair appeared in the view. Naruto turned his attention to the sound turning his frown into a smile. Knowing what to do, he crouched down to receive an armful of clothed bodies and giggles. Naruto let out a small laugh as the two still screeching children held tightly onto their father. With ease, he picked them both up as he looked at his son and daughter.
"Well, what do we have here? I thought I was told that you two would be in bed?" He replied, receiving a kiss from his little princess in a way of coaxing him.
Giving her father a toothy smile, her bright gray eyes flashed to her brother, who shared the similar look. "I heard daddy and Nori wanted to see." She explained the best way a one and a half year old could.
Raising a brow, he turned to his precious son who seemed to develop the same traits as his father with the blond hair and tan skin, only to have bluish gray eyes. Doing the same as his beloved sister, Noriko smiled at Naruto also. "Yep, I wanna see you."
Everyone in the room awed at how cute they sound as Naruto shook his head. Sometimes these kids just knew how to work a crowd, but he knew better. They weren't sleeping at all, probably watching television. "Well you seen daddy and now it's time for you two munchkins to go to bed."
Both of the twins let out an 'aw' as they clinched to him. Sighing, he always had this problem with them since they learned the meaning of vice grip. He held them close to him in an attempt hug. He knew any minute they would start sniffing and soon the water words would start coming. "No, I don't wanna leave! I wanna stay with you, daddy!" Noriko whined as his sister followed suit.
"Pwease daddy, can we stay? We be good." The little brunette gave him the best puppy dog eyes she could muster and it was the best compare to her brother. Noriko looked like he had to poo.
"Yeah, Eri and I be good."
Naruto turned to his mother who stood back and watch the interaction with glee. His grandparents held back their laughs at how well the twins sound. They definitely develop Naruto's stubbornness. He glared at each of them before he let out a sigh. He knew that they would be disruptive, but it was nice to have all his family down. Giving in, he felt all the parenting books he read for endless hours becoming useless now.
"Yes, you can stay for awhile, but after that you have to go to bed."
With a 'yay' as his reply, he let out a heart filled laugh. Sometimes, he forgot exactly who kids they were.
:c
Well into the hour, everyone continued to enjoy themselves as Naruto made his way outside. Slipping through the sliding door, he came onto the nice cool air as he let out a yawn. There was so much he had to do, but he still had time. He didn't start school until the fall and till then he could look for a nice size apartment for him and the twins. He knew he would need to get a job, which shouldn't be a problem. Lastly, he had to find a daycare for his kids. As much as would love to leave them with his mom, he knew she needed her space. Stepping out onto the grass, he stared up into the sky. Somehow, he always found himself looking at the sky as if the dark obscurity held the answers to his unknown question. Tonight he noticed how bright the moon was as thick patches of black clouds seem to migrate around it. There weren't many stars out tonight, but it wasn't hard to see the tiny ink dots twinkling lively in the midnight sky. Feeling slightly contented, he continued to watch unaware that someone came outside right behind him.
Standing on the porch was Shikamaru as he watched his friend since childhood stare upwards. He noticed how the blond seemed to avoid him all night, yet smile when he was asked a question by him. Sure, he wasn't upset by the sudden behavior, he was use to it when they were in school. However, he wanted to know why the blond decided to become distant with him. Could it be that he was with Neji, the man of his children? As analytical as he was, he knew that could be one of many possibilities. He'd use to notice the way Naruto would look when he saw Neji. His once exuberant eyes lackluster and his paled. Normally, Naruto's laughs would be hollow just like his personality. Depression seem to seep out of his body like a bad odor and Shikamaru couldn't help but to feel bad for him.
"You know...this is all too troublesome."
Naruto instantly snapped out of his reverie as he turned towards the voice. Seeing Shikamaru standing in the shadows, he forced a smile to form. "What's troublesome Shika?"
Scratching at his head, he sighed tiresomely approaching the blond. "You is what troublesome. What is your deal? One minute your smiling happily with other people, but when it comes to me, you become all depressed. Does this have to do with the fact I'm with Neji?" Just like his personality, his tone was monotonous.
Blue eyes narrowed slightly as he turned away from Shikamaru. "I don't know what you think is going on, but it has nothing to do with you and Hyuuga." As much as he wanted to deny it, he knew it was true.
Shikamaru mumbled 'troublesome' once more before plopping himself on the grass next to the blond's feet. Laying on the cool blades, he look at the inked sky with no interest at all. "Well, you tell me what's the problem then since my observation is clearly incorrect."
Crossing his arms, Naruto bit at his bottom lip. "I'm fine, just overwhelmed with the move and all."
"Is that all?"
Closing his eyes, he held back the tears that threaten to spill for another time. "Yes...I'm sure."
Shikamaru left it at that because the way Naruto voice cracked, he knew his friend was about the cry any moment. For that, he offer the only thing he could give...silence.
:
Finally the party ended around eleven while Kushina cleaned up the last remaining mess from the kitchen. Sitting at the table was Naruto, who looked so exhausted that he was falling asleep. She let out her own tiresome sigh, throwing the paper towel in the trash before turning towards her son. She knew right now he felt vulnerable, or at least that's what she would call it. She notice the moment he came back inside with Shikamaru behind him, his face was flushed and eyes red and puffy. Dark marks from his tears still remained on his face as he managed to sneak to the bathroom.
"Go to bed Naruto, you had an eventful day." She felt fatigued just dealing with the emotional mess. Don't get her wrong, she loved him, but sometimes it was hard trying to mend a heart.
Naruto head snapped up as he looked at his mother with wide, tired eyes. "No, I'm alright. Just thinking that's all." He said with a forced laugh that was even weak than he was.
Ignoring his stubbornness, she pointed towards the kitchen door. Her eyes harden as they flashed with strict authority that is known as 'mother'. "I don't give a damn what you don't want to do. I say go to bed, I mean it. Now mister, march!" She barked her command, watching the chair slide against the tiled floor and the body of Naruto disappeared into the hall. A grin of satisfaction came on her lips as she triumphantly cheered. She still got it.
:S
Climbing the stairs slowly, he felt even more drained after he cried his eyes out. Shock that he reached the top, he turned down the hall and headed towards his room. Passing tons of pictures of him and his mother, along with the twins, he stopped at the door to their room. Opening it gently, he poke his head inside to check on them. With a tiny smile, he watched two little bodies in two race car best sleep peacefully. Nodding, he gently closed the door and continued his way towards his room. It didn't take him long to find himself surrounded by darkness and walking blindly towards the bed. Stripping off his shirt, he threw it somewhere as he heard the soft thud as it landed somewhere on the floor. Next went his pants until he was only chad in his boxers. Finally, he reached his destination as he flopped down onto the mattress. Closing his eyes, he thought to himself that he might as well enjoy the few hours of sleep. He knew that tonight like any other night he'll be in for a restless night. Because behind close eyes is an image that will always play. Neji as he literally ripped Naruto heart out and smashed it to a million pieces.
TBC
So full of wonder
Your curly cues
Your contagious smile
And as i watch
You start to grow up
All I can do is hold you tight
Knowing clouds will raise up
Storms will race in
But you will be safe in my arms
Rains will pour down
Waves will crash all around
But you will be safe in my arms
"In My Arms"
Plumb
Chapter II
Getting Through It All
"I can't believe it, you made it through. I'm so proud of you Naruto!" Kushina threw her arms around her now graduated son as she felt tears fill within her eyes.
Naruto just chuckled at how silly she was being, but return the hug in return. Pressing a kiss to her forehead, he really couldn't take all the credit, especially when it came down to his schooling. "Thanks mom, but you should give yourself more credit." He simply replied, knowing his mother loved flattery.
A snort came from the older woman as she pulled away from the boy who has now become a man. Her bright blue eyes stared at him as a small smile drew on her lips. It's been one year and a half since the twins were born and Naruto became even more handsome than he did when he was sixteen. Now he stood at a proud height of 6'2" with shoulder length blond hair and the bluest eyes she ever seen. His baby features disappeared and now his face had the appearance of a man. He even started working out to develop quite a built around his arms and chest. No one would even believe that he actually had two kids, hell let alone one. Kushina let her smile widen as she took his hands into hers and held them firmly. All she could think about is her little boy is no longer her little boy. She was losing yet another part of her to the great world beyond the white fence.
Naruto on the other hand couldn't believe how time flew by so quickly. It only felt like yesterday he just gave birth to the twins (thought when he woke up and saw two identical babies he passed out again) and now he's moving onwards to fulfill his dream. After careful consideration and quick preparation, Naruto decided that it was time to leave his little town and travel to the city of Konoha. There he'll finally be able to breath better than he did here. He let out a sigh as he let his eyes travel pass his mother to the crowd of student dress in red and black gowns. Everyone around him chattered happily with each other as they embrace and said there last goodbyes. However as he kept within his visual journey, his eyes landed on one person. There standing next to his cousin and uncle was Neji. The brunette smiled warmly as he chatter animatedly about whatever.
He felt his heartbreak once again at the lost of not having him around. Sure, things between them wasn't as bad as it was a year ago, however there were issues still being avoided. Neji still doesn't want to take claim of his creation. Naruto couldn't believe that after all this time and proof that the twins were Neji's, the Hyuuga continued to deny. He even said he'll pay Naruto just to keep him from saying his kids were his. The blond refuse the offer but made him agree to this. When the time was right, he'll tell them. Now, he still felt uncomfortable around Neji and he couldn't keep the depression from returning as often as it did. That's why he wanted to go to the city. If he got away from Hokage, he would be away from Neji. It was better than going on knowing that just the mere sight of him would make the blond cry himself into a restless sleep.
"Naruto...oh my poor baby. It's going to be alright. Don't cry..." Kushina brushed his tears away that flowed freely down his tan cheek, knowing her son was unaware of his emotional breakdown. She knew he was look at Neji and it made her heart ache seeing him in this state of pain.
Naruto blinked a couple of time hearing his mother speak softly to him. Releasing that his cheeks were wet with tears, he closed his eyes. With his head slightly low, his long hair shield him from on viewer as he let out a shaky breath. He had to be strong, he had two wonderful children at home waiting for him. He had a mother, who thank god still looks like she isn't a day over twenty one to take care of. He had dreams in becoming the best doctor there is. He had to keep his hope up and wash away the darkness that continues to eat away his very soul piece by piece each day.
"I'm sorry mom, it's just...you know, it's hard." He whispered as he felt her arms encase him once more in an attempt to comfort him. Leaning against her shoulder, he let the rest of his tears flow as they dripped on Kushina's black dress.
Kushina whispered soft, soothing words to him as she rubbed his back. She knew how hard it was for him to fight his emotions. That's why she wanted him to get help, but he refused. However, she could sympathize with him completely. She's been a single parent since Naruto was three. Though their situation is different, she knew how it felt. Sighing deeply, she had to hold back her own tears when she thought about her beloved husband. God, how she missed him so and everyday she had to watch this boy in her arms grow to look more like him. It was enough for her to jump over the edge, but she hadn't. Now she wasn't going to let her only son do the same, especially to those precious angels known as her grandchildren.
"Now you listen to me Naruto Uzumaki. You will not be sad on this day after you worked so hard to get here. Today we'll have the biggest feast money could buy and enjoy these last moments before you leave. I know it's hard, but you still have me and I'm not going to leave you." She scold him gently, but it was true. She heard him give her a weak laugh, knowing that he was listening to her. "When your father died, I thought I was going to die. Every single day my soul was become weak as my heart continued to shatter with each step I took. However, I realized that I shouldn't be sad because I had a beautiful baby boy at home waiting for me. I knew that once I opened that door, the little blond haired boy would be there to greet me with a big hug and kiss. For eighteen years, I always awaited for those small jesters each approach home. It made me strong and look at how well that turned out. Now it's your turn because you have little ones at home watching to do the same thing. Don't disappoint them."
Naruto smiled warmly as he listen to his mother's words. She was right, he couldn't let his depression win. He had so much to live for now he was a family man. Regaining his composure, he looked down at him mom. "Thank you for so much. I don't know what I would do without you."
Kushina laughed loudly as she patted him on the back. "Well, I could name a few things. For one, if I didn't cook ramen the way you liked it, you would die. Oh let's not forget how you like your underwear pressed and starched. And also-"
Naruto let out a groan as he shook his head. Maybe he should rephrase the meaning 'without you'.
:D
Naruto and Kushina didn't arrive home until late. The sky just started to darken by time they reached their nice house. Pushing the door open, Naruto let out a loud sigh as he felt glad to be home. Today was a hellish day in his opinion and graduation took too long. Between his Valedictorian speech and the principal practically crying all over the place, he wanted to get out of there and quick. Once his diploma touched the palm of his hand, he wanted to scream for joy and hightail it home. Nevertheless, hie mother insist that he said goodbye to his friends since he won't see many of them. At first he didn't want to bother, but when his mother kicked him in the shin, he didn't have a choice. After saying goodbye to some of his friends (mostly Shikamaru and Haku) he left. Well, after he found his mom that was, who was chatting flirtatiously with Sarutobi-sensei.
Kicking off his shoes, he threw his cap on the hall table as he headed to the first place, the living room. Passing through the kitchen, he stopped to look at all the food that was placed on the table. He couldn't help but smile at all his favorite food, it's not like he ate ramen twenty-four seven. Going through the swinging door, he was greeted with a loud 'surprise!'. Grinning, he watched as his family and friends popped out of various places as they threw confetti at him. Taped to the ceiling was a nicely decorated banner of 'Congratulation at Graduating Naruto' colored in different mirids of crayons. Of course, when letting two one and half year old tanker with it, well you get the picture.
Behind him Kushina appeared as she smiled at her plan. It took careful plotting, but with the help of her mother and father, well you also get the picture. "Well it seems someone has given you a surprise party. Hm...I wonder who done it?"
"Mom, we all know you planned it, so stop following around."
Giggling, she threw her hands up in surrender as she approached her son. Ruffling his hair (she practically had to stand on the very tip of her toes) she nudged him playfully. "Yar Yar, but I don't get all the credit. Those two grandparents of yours are true masterminds." She pointed to the couple standing in the back, talking to Shikamaru.
Naruto smiled as he walked towards the couple. Standing next to a woman that looked like she was in her mid-thirties, he tapped her shoulder lightly getting her attention. Green eyes looked up at him as she let a toothy grin slip. Without warning, she laid a hard slap against his back that almost made him tumble forward. "Well, isn't it my grandson. God, who would have thought someone of your status could actually pass high school! Good job brat!" She said loudly, drawing the other two attention easily.
A faint blush covered his cheeks as he cough slightly from the impact. "Ah...yes, I remember you saying something about me being dumb. Proved you wrong ne baa-chan?"
The man standing next to her laughed loudly as he slipped his arm around her shoulders. Looking at Naruto, he winked at the boy. "Oh boy hun, the kid surely got spunk. Your going to let him get away with it?"
With a sly smile, she shook her head. "Not really, but I'll let him go this time. I can't kill the guest of honor or his mother will have my head."
"Damn right, mom. No one hurts my little Naru and get's away with it. No matter how annoying he may be." Kushina appeared in the scene as she held a brightly wrapped gift out to her only child.
Naruto smiled stupidly at his grandma who in returned stuck her tongue out at him. Chuckling, he looked at the box in his hand as he turned to his mom. "Who is this from?"
"That's from Dr. Umino and Kakashi. They said sorry for not being here, but Iruka had a double at the hospital and Kakashi's at home with Monami. She has a cold."
Naruto nodded as he tore at the box like a child during Christmas time. Opening the lid, he gasped loudly at the gift as he pulled it out for his family to see. Within his hands he held a Xbox 360 as he let out a cheer. Since they first came out he wanted one, but didn't bother asking his mom for it. Kushina eyes narrowed at the gift quickly snatching it away from him. Naruto turned to her with 'what the hell' clearly written on his face.
"I don't know why they got you this. You have two kids that needs your attention. So for now, it stays here with me and when you come to visit over the weekend, you can play it." She exclaim making the blond groan.
Just as he was about to complain to his mom about ruining his fun, two little yells echoed as the door to the kitchen opened. Two little sets of padded feet echoed on the floor as a blond and brown hair appeared in the view. Naruto turned his attention to the sound turning his frown into a smile. Knowing what to do, he crouched down to receive an armful of clothed bodies and giggles. Naruto let out a small laugh as the two still screeching children held tightly onto their father. With ease, he picked them both up as he looked at his son and daughter.
"Well, what do we have here? I thought I was told that you two would be in bed?" He replied, receiving a kiss from his little princess in a way of coaxing him.
Giving her father a toothy smile, her bright gray eyes flashed to her brother, who shared the similar look. "I heard daddy and Nori wanted to see." She explained the best way a one and a half year old could.
Raising a brow, he turned to his precious son who seemed to develop the same traits as his father with the blond hair and tan skin, only to have bluish gray eyes. Doing the same as his beloved sister, Noriko smiled at Naruto also. "Yep, I wanna see you."
Everyone in the room awed at how cute they sound as Naruto shook his head. Sometimes these kids just knew how to work a crowd, but he knew better. They weren't sleeping at all, probably watching television. "Well you seen daddy and now it's time for you two munchkins to go to bed."
Both of the twins let out an 'aw' as they clinched to him. Sighing, he always had this problem with them since they learned the meaning of vice grip. He held them close to him in an attempt hug. He knew any minute they would start sniffing and soon the water words would start coming. "No, I don't wanna leave! I wanna stay with you, daddy!" Noriko whined as his sister followed suit.
"Pwease daddy, can we stay? We be good." The little brunette gave him the best puppy dog eyes she could muster and it was the best compare to her brother. Noriko looked like he had to poo.
"Yeah, Eri and I be good."
Naruto turned to his mother who stood back and watch the interaction with glee. His grandparents held back their laughs at how well the twins sound. They definitely develop Naruto's stubbornness. He glared at each of them before he let out a sigh. He knew that they would be disruptive, but it was nice to have all his family down. Giving in, he felt all the parenting books he read for endless hours becoming useless now.
"Yes, you can stay for awhile, but after that you have to go to bed."
With a 'yay' as his reply, he let out a heart filled laugh. Sometimes, he forgot exactly who kids they were.
:c
Well into the hour, everyone continued to enjoy themselves as Naruto made his way outside. Slipping through the sliding door, he came onto the nice cool air as he let out a yawn. There was so much he had to do, but he still had time. He didn't start school until the fall and till then he could look for a nice size apartment for him and the twins. He knew he would need to get a job, which shouldn't be a problem. Lastly, he had to find a daycare for his kids. As much as would love to leave them with his mom, he knew she needed her space. Stepping out onto the grass, he stared up into the sky. Somehow, he always found himself looking at the sky as if the dark obscurity held the answers to his unknown question. Tonight he noticed how bright the moon was as thick patches of black clouds seem to migrate around it. There weren't many stars out tonight, but it wasn't hard to see the tiny ink dots twinkling lively in the midnight sky. Feeling slightly contented, he continued to watch unaware that someone came outside right behind him.
Standing on the porch was Shikamaru as he watched his friend since childhood stare upwards. He noticed how the blond seemed to avoid him all night, yet smile when he was asked a question by him. Sure, he wasn't upset by the sudden behavior, he was use to it when they were in school. However, he wanted to know why the blond decided to become distant with him. Could it be that he was with Neji, the man of his children? As analytical as he was, he knew that could be one of many possibilities. He'd use to notice the way Naruto would look when he saw Neji. His once exuberant eyes lackluster and his paled. Normally, Naruto's laughs would be hollow just like his personality. Depression seem to seep out of his body like a bad odor and Shikamaru couldn't help but to feel bad for him.
"You know...this is all too troublesome."
Naruto instantly snapped out of his reverie as he turned towards the voice. Seeing Shikamaru standing in the shadows, he forced a smile to form. "What's troublesome Shika?"
Scratching at his head, he sighed tiresomely approaching the blond. "You is what troublesome. What is your deal? One minute your smiling happily with other people, but when it comes to me, you become all depressed. Does this have to do with the fact I'm with Neji?" Just like his personality, his tone was monotonous.
Blue eyes narrowed slightly as he turned away from Shikamaru. "I don't know what you think is going on, but it has nothing to do with you and Hyuuga." As much as he wanted to deny it, he knew it was true.
Shikamaru mumbled 'troublesome' once more before plopping himself on the grass next to the blond's feet. Laying on the cool blades, he look at the inked sky with no interest at all. "Well, you tell me what's the problem then since my observation is clearly incorrect."
Crossing his arms, Naruto bit at his bottom lip. "I'm fine, just overwhelmed with the move and all."
"Is that all?"
Closing his eyes, he held back the tears that threaten to spill for another time. "Yes...I'm sure."
Shikamaru left it at that because the way Naruto voice cracked, he knew his friend was about the cry any moment. For that, he offer the only thing he could give...silence.
:
Finally the party ended around eleven while Kushina cleaned up the last remaining mess from the kitchen. Sitting at the table was Naruto, who looked so exhausted that he was falling asleep. She let out her own tiresome sigh, throwing the paper towel in the trash before turning towards her son. She knew right now he felt vulnerable, or at least that's what she would call it. She notice the moment he came back inside with Shikamaru behind him, his face was flushed and eyes red and puffy. Dark marks from his tears still remained on his face as he managed to sneak to the bathroom.
"Go to bed Naruto, you had an eventful day." She felt fatigued just dealing with the emotional mess. Don't get her wrong, she loved him, but sometimes it was hard trying to mend a heart.
Naruto head snapped up as he looked at his mother with wide, tired eyes. "No, I'm alright. Just thinking that's all." He said with a forced laugh that was even weak than he was.
Ignoring his stubbornness, she pointed towards the kitchen door. Her eyes harden as they flashed with strict authority that is known as 'mother'. "I don't give a damn what you don't want to do. I say go to bed, I mean it. Now mister, march!" She barked her command, watching the chair slide against the tiled floor and the body of Naruto disappeared into the hall. A grin of satisfaction came on her lips as she triumphantly cheered. She still got it.
:S
Climbing the stairs slowly, he felt even more drained after he cried his eyes out. Shock that he reached the top, he turned down the hall and headed towards his room. Passing tons of pictures of him and his mother, along with the twins, he stopped at the door to their room. Opening it gently, he poke his head inside to check on them. With a tiny smile, he watched two little bodies in two race car best sleep peacefully. Nodding, he gently closed the door and continued his way towards his room. It didn't take him long to find himself surrounded by darkness and walking blindly towards the bed. Stripping off his shirt, he threw it somewhere as he heard the soft thud as it landed somewhere on the floor. Next went his pants until he was only chad in his boxers. Finally, he reached his destination as he flopped down onto the mattress. Closing his eyes, he thought to himself that he might as well enjoy the few hours of sleep. He knew that tonight like any other night he'll be in for a restless night. Because behind close eyes is an image that will always play. Neji as he literally ripped Naruto heart out and smashed it to a million pieces.
TBC