Naruto Fan Fiction ❯ Sand In A Cage ❯ Chapter III - Rapidly Growing Infatuation and Obsession ( Chapter 4 )
[ X - Adult: No readers under 18. Contains Graphic Adult Themes/Extreme violence. ]
By: The Caged Bird 
XD...Yeah...i don't know what else to say about this one...Fricken Kankuro's a nut...
Anime/Manga: Naruto Fan Fiction | Genre(s): Hentai / Romance / Angst | Type: Alternate Universe | Uploaded On: 10.19.2005 | Pages: 6 | Words: 5.8K | Visits: 507 | Status: Completed
XD...Yeah...i don't know what else to say about this one...Fricken Kankuro's a nut...
Anime/Manga: Naruto Fan Fiction | Genre(s): Hentai / Romance / Angst | Type: Alternate Universe | Uploaded On: 10.19.2005 | Pages: 6 | Words: 5.8K | Visits: 507 | Status: Completed
Chapter III: Rapidly Growing Infatuation and Obsession
“So how was your first month of school, aside from my class?” Tsunade questioned when the kids walked in.
“Moooom…I got Ibisu-san for Biology! Can I transfer to another class?” Naruto whined as he sat down at the table, his chin dropping to it while his arms dangled at his sides.
The teacher shook her head. “Sorry Hun, but you keep asking me that question and I keep giving you the same answer…you’re stuck with him. He’s the only Biology teacher in the school…tough it out”
“Aww…damnit”
“What about you three? Is it a big change from Hiroshima?” she said looking to the them after they’d sat down.
“It’s a lot bigger…and it has a lot more electives” Temari started, thanking Tsunade when she handed out cookies that were fresh out of the oven.
“What about you Kankuro? Do you like it, do you hate it, are you going to survive?”
He chuckled a bit and nodded. “..Yeah I’ll live I’m sure. I love the Auto Tech class I got…and I get to watch over Gaara because I TA one of his classes.” he trailed off for a second in thought. “Oh! Speaking of which” he turned to his brother. “what is this little issue with that Hyuga kid?”
Gaara just looked at him.
“Hyuga? Hinata?”
Kankuro shook his head. “No, that Angel or whatever…Gaara wouldn’t stop staring at him all class. They’re partners in Graphic Design plus he has Hyuga in his Art Honors…he‘s been doing it every day since the first day of school”
“Hm…interesting.”
“ Hyuga Neji?”
“Neji?” they both asked in unison.
“yes…that’s his real name…the only people who know it are people involved with his uncle’s business…Yondaime and I take a trip across the states four times a year to promote their merchandise…we see Neji a lot as well as Hinata and Hanabi…”
“The Caged Bird…” Temari said thoughtfully. “that’s a strange name…”
“it’s why he prefers his middle name, Angel. He’s the only Hyuga with a middle name…it was his mother’s request before she died…” Yondaime had been listening from the living room and had walked in. he gave his wife a kiss before heading into the garage to work on his motorcycle.
“Actually…the Hyuga family is holding their fall banquet and we all go every year…you’ll get to meet Hiashi Hyuga in person as well as hang out with his children…it will make them happy.”
“when’s the banquet?”
“It’s tonight actually…sorry for the short notice…but we’re used to our routine…we just have to include you three from now on…I’m pretty sure you’ll catch up with us in no time…”
“Sounds like fun…what do you think?” Temari inquired to Kankuro who shrugged. “I thought that Hinata girl was kinda cute…it should be worth it”
She rolled her eyes. “..augh it’s the first month of school and you’re already hitting on girls younger than you?”
“what can I say I just have that touch…” “yeah right…”
“Oh and I am sorry to say Kankuro, that you can’t wear your make-up to the banquet.”
“aww why not?”
Naruto answered that question. “because these people are very formal. No one in their family aside from the cousin wears make-up...it’s been tradition in their family that the male of the house is treated with femininity until he turns 18...but since you are not in the Hyuga house they would consider it an insult to the male of the house…which is Neji.”
“please understand that any rules that we have to lay down when being in the presence of any Hyuga isn’t because we want to be mean…they are a proud clan that has lasted through hundreds of generations and their traditions are very orthodox and strict. They’re sophisticated and have yet to fully grasp modern-day living…”
“Soo basically all we have to do is act like we would if we were to visit the emperor of Japan and we should be ok?” Kankuro pointed out.
Naruto semi-shrugged. “pretty much. These people are really rich and snobby bastards…but if you piss them off they can make your life a living hell…it’s happened to a friend of mine who can’t go anywhere without being ridiculed because the Hyugas are so widely known.”
“wow and you socialize with these people?”
“C’est la vie…” Tsunade sighed. “well…be ready by 7:15pm…until then you can do what you want…” with that the other adult left the room. Once she was gone that was when the interrogation began.
“So…”
“…”
“you gonna tell us what you find so fascinating about Hyuga?”
“No…”
“why not?”
“Because…”
“Becaause& #8230;?”
“Because I don’t feel like it”
“Gah hopeless! You’re such a pain in the ass pipsqueak!” Kankuro growled.
Temari sighed heavily. “he doesn’t have to tell you anything Kankuro…”
“but I wanna know what it is about this girly boy that Gaara finds so interesting! You and I both know the kid hates everyone and everything and takes no interest in any aspect of life! So what is it about Hyuga that has his undivided attention?” he finished nearly out of breath.
Naruto perked up at this. “…you mean Gaara’s like…interested interested in Hyuga?”
“Er…I didn’t say that….”
“Well what else would it be?”
“Are you calling my brother gay?”
Naruto went shifty-eyed. “….maybe--GAH!” he suddenly found himself in a headlock.
“My lil bro ain’t gay! He hates everyone!”
“….”
“Come on now you two…stop arguing…that’s for Gaara to decide anyways” Temari said trying to calm the two hotheads.
“….”
“He’s calling Gaara gay Temari!”
“So what?! He obviously has an interest in Hyuga…though it’s no surprise, Hyuga has as many fan girls as Uchiha…”
“And a couple fan boys…” Kankuro stated accusingly as he eyed Naruto with an evil smirk.
Naruto tweaked and turned a little pink. “K-keh?! I hate Uchiha’s guts! Where are you trying to get at! Cause I don’t like him I hate him and there’s nothing in this world or the next that can say otherwise…”
“no but that hicky can…”
Tweak tweak, blush. “Damnit shut up that was ah…from…Sakura!”
“so far from what I’ve seen Sakura hates your guts and is dating Lee….”
“fuck…”
“Ha! So who’s the gay one now??”
“shut up! That still doesn’t eliminate the fact that Gaara likes Hyuga!”
“…So?…”
All three stopped and looked at him.
“Did you just say ‘so’ ? “ Kankuro wasn’t sure he’d heard right and had to verify it.
Gaara just gave him that ‘what are you deaf?’ look.
“Oh my god…my brother is gay! Both of them are! Oh my god what if I turn gay!?”
Temari smacked the oldest boy upside the head. “…that is not possible you have too large a fetish for looking up girl’s skirts and watching their boobs jiggle…”
“whooh thank god…I thought I was a goner for sure…”
“….”
Temari ignored him and looked at Gaara sternly. “…do you really like Hyuga?”
“….” he was hesitant, as if debating on what answer he wanted to give her before giving a single curt nod.
“Then why don’t you just tell the guy?” Kankuro began but Naruto shushed him.
“it wouldn’t be that easy…if you haven’t noticed…we’re dirt poor…at least compared to the Hyuga family…you think Hyuga would want anything to do with Gaara? They’re the rich upper class…they don’t mix well with people like us. He wouldn’t stand a chance. On top of that Hyuga has a million girls hounding over him…”
“Yeah well so does Uchiha and look who he devotes all his attention to….”
“can it Kankuro..” the blue-eyed Kitsune grumbled a fist shaking as an anger bubble appeared on his head. That only made the sand brother cackle.
The female of the group smacked them both for their stupidity then turned her attention back to your youngest brother. “..Gaara”
Turquoise shifted her way to indicate he was listening.
“Do you really like this Neji person?”
“…I’m…not sure…I’ve never liked anyone before so”
“well…what do you think about him?”
Kankuro butted in. “…ok let’s do this the easy way instead of the girly way…Gaara, what’s the first thing that comes to mind when you wake up in the morning?”
“….Hyuga”
“Okay&# 8230;who’s the first person you look for when you get to school?”
“….Hyuga”
“… alrighty, and who’s the one that you enjoy stalking and staring at the most?”
“….Hyuga”
“Where are you getting at Kankuro?” Temari queried, lofting a brow and folding her arms.
“Well it’s obvious ain’t it? The pipsqueak’s obsessed with this Hyuga…”
“Erm…that’s kinda creepy now that you think about it” Naruto stated rubbing his cheek.
“Why is it creepy?”
“think about it…this is Gaara we’re talking about. Gaara and Hyuga…”
“You know he has a point that is kinda creepy…” Kankuro agreed.
“Oh you boys are so retarded that it hurts to call you family sometimes” their sisters snapped.
“Have you figured out how you want to approach Hyuga on this?” she insisted.
Gaara shook his head then walked down the hall, pulling down the attic stairs to go up to his room, the only sound coming from him being the clicking of the stairs after they closed.
He stayed up there the whole day while their adopted brother took Temari and Kankuro out to see some shops and to catch a glimpse of Disneyland. He meanwhile sat up in his room working on a little project. It wasn’t for school or anything, but it kept him busy since he didn’t want to go out. Tsunade, his new “mother” of sorts graciously opted to go out and buy him his own art studio. They were poor, yes, but it was the least she could do since he had to live in the worst room in the house. That and it was all he had ever asked for.
“…” he stared at the painting he was doing, unsure of whether or not he got it right and decided that he’d failed, painting a big red X through it before tossing it aside where a small pile was beginning to grow.
“hn…pointless” he grumbled slumping into his bed. “I’ll never get it right…” with a sigh he fell back onto the mattress and dozed off, hoping some ideas would come to mind before he had to get up for the banquet.
As predicted, a knock was heard on the attic and Yondaime was heard calling for him to get ready to go. He hadn’t realized he’d been asleep for so long and growled, dragging himself out of bed to his dresser to find something they would deem appropriate.
Once dressed, his attire being a simple black t-shirt with his netshirt underneath and a pair of un-chained bondage pants, he went downstairs into the living room where everyone was waiting.
“everyone ready to go?”
They all nodded.
“let’s head out then, we don’t want to be late…” Yondaime exclaimed as he ushered them all out to the Excursion.
Once everyone was loaded and buckled they took off down the busy street, quickly making a left onto the freeway. It was amazing how the Hyuga children managed to get to school on time with the distance that they lived from the campus. They lived almost an hour from Anaheim High School, but somehow made it there on time every day.
The estate was right next to the beach, one particular cliff and cove being sectioned off from the public for their own personal use. The property itself was a good 1200 acres, not including their horse grounds and indoor amusement complete with a go-kart circuit, theatre, and restaurant. The pool on the cliff was Olympic size with real fountains and a second pool that lead out into the ocean. Next to that was a man-made hot spring for relaxing. Down at the beach was a crystal-clear cove, complete with a cave for exploring, a few coral reefs and a dock that tethered their two yachts which were next to the boathouse that held their jet skis, speedboats, and a real submarine.
Instead of living in a mansion they lived in a castle that was customized to their liking since the entire Hyuga clan lived there along with distant relatives of other clans as well as close friends and relatives that would visit from Japan and Europe. The castle could clearly house everyone in the state of California if they so wished. It was modeled after the Russian Palace that the Czar Nicholas and his Romanov family had resided in so it held the rectangular structure with the empty space in the center. The garage, which was through an arch to the right in the castle structure, was the size of a warehouse and had six stories: the 1st being for Limousines and guests, the 2nd for sedans and coupes, 3rd for vans and SUVs, 5th for motorcycles, quads, dirtbikes, and dune buggies, and the 6th for classics and collectors models. The roof held two helicopters, one private jet, and the Hyuga boy’s Kanitka. The Hyuga children had their own garages for their own vehicles as well. Behind the castle was the gardens, the labyrinth, and the stables. All in all it was a small city in itself.
“Duude…this place is HUGE” Kankuro stated in awe along with his two siblings.
“Yeah it is…but you get used to seeing it after a while…especially if you come to all of the gatherings and parties the Hyugas host. The only thing that sucks about this place is that it’s nothing but adults. There are only three children…Hanabi, the youngest, Hinata, the middle child, and Neji the oldest. It’s one reason why they’re so stuck up. It’s because they’re surrounded by adults all the time and have never really had any friends. Well…Hinata and Hanabi have friends, close knit groupies…Neji…I can say much about him. He comes to school then goes straight back to the estate”
“We’re here” Tsunade caught their attention then as they drove up to the gates to be checked off, Yondaime having handed one of the guards a personal invitation. Because that’s how it was. If you were not exclusively invited you weren’t allowed to attend. Once approved the gates opened and they were steered off in the direction of the guest parking before getting out and heading through the garage entrance to the main hall.
It seemed like half the city of Los Angeles were present and then some. As stated before, most of the people ranged in age from 21 to 90. Not the ideal group to be conversing with if your below the age of 18 and don’t have a high paying job like the aristocrats did. The three were amazed they were even allowed to mingle with the rich and famous. Naruto had already pointed out to them that they were the lowest class of society and yet here they were enjoying expensive delicacies and chatting with stars.
“hey mom…”
“Yes Temari?” Tsunade lofted a brow at the other blonde.
“Is it alright if we all go find our friends?”
“sure…I bet they’re in the arcade right now…Naruto will show you where it is”
Naruto heard her and smiled. “..yeah! I forgot that Shikamaru wanted a rematch on Soul Caliber II…come on you guys!” with that he took off, they having to run to keep up with him as he climbed three flights of stairs (even though an elevator and an escalator were available) then jolted down the right corridor and through set of large rosewood doors.
Inside was an arcade that would put any arcade store to shame. It had every arcade game ever made and tons of kids were on them, yet there still weren’t enough to harbor every game. Nobody ever had to wait in line, say for one game.
“Oh my god they have DDR! (Dance Dance Revolution) no way!” Kankuro practically squealed with joy as he ran up to Extreme, watching Sasuke duking it out with a man that looked like him only older.
“Who’s that…”
“Oh him? That’s Itachi, Sasuke’s older brother. He can be a royal prick sometimes but, he’s pretty cool once you get past his badass exterior. He a freshman in college…” Naruto explained to them just as the game finished. As soon as the game ended Naruto was lunged at.
“EEK!” he squeaked and fell over with a hot and sweaty Sasuke clinging to him looking determined. “E-Etto…e-evening Sasuke…”
“Dobe…you were supposed to be here over an hour ago…”
“I’m sorry…jeez…my parents were busy with a meeting at school give me a break” he mumbled when he was silenced with a kiss from the dark-haired male. He blinked a few times after he pulled away then stuck out his tongue. “…yick...you’re all sweaty and you taste salty…”
Sasuke rolled his eyes and got up, dragging the blonde with him. “quit bitching…come on you’re playing me…”
“oh I am, am I? Since when do you order me around?”
“since we started dating…”
“…..”
“I prove my point now get over here” Sasuke demanded as he selected Versus Mode (they didn’t have to pay for any of the games, courtesy of Neji’s uber computer skillz). Naruto sighed and did as he was told, leaving the other three to wander.
“…hmm…I’m gonna go play a round of air hockey with Shino and Kiba…” Kankuro nodded firmly to his decision and headed off for the air hockey room.
“I guess I’ll go find Ino and Sakura…they’re probably chilling out at the restaurant…see you later Gaara” Temari waved then walked away.
“….” he didn’t want to be there. He didn’t want to be surrounded by people. He didn’t like adults. What he did like was currently by himself playing his own hybrid version of DDR that contained ALL of the songs. He gave a look around to see that nobody was paying attention then walked over to Neji whom was currently enthralled in his stage of A Renaissance. When his stage ended he took a break, turning only to see Gaara standing there staring like he always did.
“Jesus!…don’t dooo that…god don’t you have anything better to do with your time than gawk at me??” Neji wondered as he heaved a sigh, wiping the crystal beads from his brow, some soaking into the headband he wore. Shockingly enough none of his black and red make-up had run or smeared during his game play, hinting he must have the very expensive sort.
“So…I take it the Uzumaki family is here if you are” he paused and glanced around, spotting Naruto then nodded. “…go figure…they’re the only low-class family allowed to come here…though I’m surprised you decided to join in the festivities…”
“…I’m only here for them…” and you he kept that little part to himself.
“Care to play a game with me?” Neji was offering a game? To a poor, low-class punk like him? That was almost a dream come true to anyone in Gaara’s position. Neji wasn’t one to offer anything to anyone for any reason. Then again the two of them were partners in two classes, they saw each other at least twice every day, and the brunette had successfully got Gaara to speak sentences when in the presence of others, a feat that Temari and Kankuro had never accomplished. In turn Gaara had shown people that Neji wasn’t a complete asshole…at least not to the redhead.
With a nod of his head he hopped onto the right side of the pad and waited for Neji to select the song. “…why don’t you pick one…I’ve played all of them at least twice tonight…I don’t care which you pick out…”
“hmm…how about…R3 to start us off?” he offered.
“oh my god Angel and Gaara are going head-to-head!” Ino suddenly called out and it got the attention of everyone in the arcade room. Got attention that the two players didn’t want.
A few seconds later there was a huge crowd gathered around the expanded DDR game pad (it possessing the nine-steps instead of just four and was twice in size), though they kept clear of the screen that was built into the floor behind the pads. Three larger screens surrounded the main screen so people in the back could watch whenever there was a tournament.
“…oh boy…” Neji mumbled under his breath, looking away from the swooning girls that were huddled in a group near him. Gaara eyed them and glared venomously, the females’ squeals and coos dying out quickly.
“Ready to go?” he asked the older boy who nodded. And so what started out as a friendly match turned into a battle for the best.
Neji was excellent in his DDR skills, considering he never went out and never had any friends (until Gaara), so he was naturally the best. Gaara however, was keeping up to his pace after only a few shaky moves.
“Wow…I’ve never seen anyone keep up with Angel like that..“
“That’s because it’s super rare to even see anyone playing with him”
Chatter was going on all around as most people cheered for Neji while others, mainly Naruto’s group, jeered for Gaara to whoop Neji’s ass. Both challengers ignored the crowd and focused on each other’s movements and the rhythm of the game. They were soon in sync with each other, each move fluid, as if they were mirrors to each other. Each step was perfect and each spin was in precise timing.
They went through an entire machine’s worth of songs and neither out bested the other. Their scores were a perfect match down to the last Marvelous and Perfect. Once out of breath, their chests constricted from loss of breath, the two boys gave up the machine to the next players and escaped to the seclusion of the restaurant.
“Man…I’ve never played with anyone so good before…where’d you learn to play?” Neji asked as he ordered them some fries and burgers, then handed Gaara a cup to fill his drink.
“Actually…I was only at Standard…I started playing when I was four…Kankuro and Temari taught me because Kankuro is obsessed with the game…it’s his life” Gaara replied, following Neji was a private booth to eat. He sat down across from the long-haired teen and munched at a few fries.
“Really?…well…you seemed to have caught on pretty quickly back there…I mean…nobody’s been able to keep up with me…DDR’s one of my passions since I have nothing better to do….well, when I’m not performing…”
“Performing?” the turquoise-eyed male blinked at him before taking a bite of his burger. Neji nodded.
“Yeah…I either sing and dance, or I play an instrument. The family calls me the “prodigy of the Hyuga Clan” though that doesn’t particularly interest me. Still, it gets me away from that so-called family of mine.” he paused to eat his own food before wiping his mouth with a napkin and taking a drink of his cola. “what about you? Do you possess any special skills or talents?”
Gaara made a thoughtful sound then tossed a few ketchup-covered fries into his mouth, resting his cheek in the palm of his hand as he contemplated that question. “….I paint and draw…I also write poetry…” he concluded with a nod.
“you’re a poetic artist?” Neji elucidated. He got a semi-nod in return. “That sounds interesting…how good are you?”
“Hmm…not as good as you are”
“Oh please…you know I really hate coming out on top of everything…so please don’t compare me to yourself…” he sighed a bit and rolled ivories. “Everyone thinks I’m this super asshole who’s bested everyone in everything and can never be turned down if I want something…though you proved that theory wrong when we first met…” he chuckled.
“…if you thought I was going to bow down and pamper you like the rest of the world you can think again…I don’t bow down to anyone…”
“And I wouldn’t expect you to…you’re the only one who doesn’t. that’s what impresses me. I don’t care for any of those people because all they see me for is my looks, my fame, and my money. That’s not the qualities you should look for in a person at all…it disgusts me” he snorted and finished his burger, then mimicked Gaara’s position, his face resting in his hand as he twiddled with some fries.
There was a moment of silence between the two when he picked up a fry, examining it boredly then eyed Gaara for a second before chucking the fried potato at him, hitting him square in the forehead.
“….”
He stares then throws another one at him.
“……..”
Smirk. let’s see how far….his thoughts trail off as he picks up a third one and throws it, but this time Gaara catches it and eyes him.
“Yes?” Neji replied to the look.
“….” there was no verbal answer, only the same fry he threw being chucked back at him.
“oh you didn’t…”
“maybe I did…” the redhead replied slyly.
“….” he huffed and glared then slowly slid from his seat before throwing another fry and taking off.
“Hey!!” Gaara was soon in hot pursuit. Neji was an excellent sprinter Gaara soon found out and was having a hard time keeping up with the other boy as he darted in and out of the crowd.
Bystanders looked on as the two weaved in and out of people and machines, cutting corners and almost tripping.
“Get back here damnit!” the younger shouted at Neji’s back as he quickly dodged someone walking his way but tripped and ended up falling on one particular Blonde.
“Ow damnit what the hell!? Angel?” Naruto blinked a few times when he came face-to-face with the celebrity.
“Er…sorry” he got up then helped Naruto to his feet when he was suddenly glomped from behind, practically face planting once again. “Ow…”
“Ha! Let’s see you get away this time!” Gaara paused and blinked slowly looking up at the people staring.
“Get off him you trash!” came the sudden outburst from one of the guests. The puny little 8th grader felt himself being hauled roughly off of Neji’s back and thrown aside, his siblings there to break his fall.
He winced a bit from being jerked around and stared as the one who threw him helped Neji tenderly to his feet and began dusting him off, more like feeling him up.
“Are you alright Angel? Did he hurt you?” the male asked.
Neji was at a loss for the moment until he heard people ganging up on Gaara.
“what did you think you were doing chasing Angel like that?”
“What are you a stalker or something? Think that you’re better than everyone else that you have to hound Angel!”
“what’s a dirty little poor punk like you doing here anyways? Shouldn’t you be getting back to that dumpster you call a home?”
“ENOUGH!”
All of the people crowding up on the small boy and his siblings ceased and stepped aside for Neji who was looking rather miffed.
“Don’t worry Angel we told him off he won’t be seen here anymo-” that sentence was cut short by a fist connecting with his jaw, sending him flying back into the group that had been assaulting the Kazekages.
Neji cracked and shook the hand that he’d used to punch the male, a scowl on his face. “…no one…and I repeat…NO ONE puts down another person in this HOUSE…is that understood? I catch anyone treating this family unfairly again and there’ll be hell to pay…” he demanded firmly, getting squeaks and nods in response. After all Neji could be a very scary person when he was angry.
“Get lost now, it’s almost time for everyone to leave” with that the large gathering began to file out of the arcade. Neji turned to Gaara and was going to apologize when a two men in black suits and shades approached along with an older man that looked a little like Neji.
“What is all this…Neji” the younger Hyuga tweaked and turned to his uncle. “Yes sir?”
“what was that just now?….you…a upstanding aristocrat fighting in our home?”
“But Hiashi-san”
“No…I don’t want to hear excuses…you were supposed to be at a photo shoot that you never showed up for anyways. Instead you were here screwing around like you always do and costing us time and energy to search for you”
Neji scowled and dropped his head.
“Now…I spoke with the photographer and he agreed to stay longer if we get it done now…”
“….”
“well?R 21;
“yes sir” he muttered, glaring angrily at the floor before looking to Gaara and his siblings. That was when Hiashi took notice to them and made a disturbed face.
“…what are people like them doing in this household?”
“We’re…um…we’re Uzumaki-san’s children..” Temari stated.
“Children? They only have one child…a son…I believe his name was Nathaniel…Nick…”
“Naruto…” Neji corrected.
“Don’t correct me boy…get going before you cost us the house…” he snapped.
Neji shot him a venomous look before walking away, glancing back at Gaara before exiting with the two other men.
“Well…shouldn’t you three be getting back to the Uzumakis? The gathering has long since past…I’ll let you go this time, but next time I will file for trespassing…” with that the man turned and left.
“…what a jerk…” Temari stated after they were in the truck, her expression clearly pissed.
“How could they treat people like that?”
“It’s called being rich enough to…look I’m sorry you guys ran into Hyuga-san…the only people he cares about are his daughters”
“what about Neji?” Gaara asked curiously.
“what about him?…Hyuga-san doesn’t give a damn about his nephew…he just cares about the money he brings in from his fame.” Naruto alleged.
“that’s messed up…” Kankuro snorted and crossed his arms.
“Neji…” Gaara repeated to himself quietly. Ok maybe his brothers were right. He was obsessed with the Hyuga boy.
“So how was your first month of school, aside from my class?” Tsunade questioned when the kids walked in.
“Moooom…I got Ibisu-san for Biology! Can I transfer to another class?” Naruto whined as he sat down at the table, his chin dropping to it while his arms dangled at his sides.
The teacher shook her head. “Sorry Hun, but you keep asking me that question and I keep giving you the same answer…you’re stuck with him. He’s the only Biology teacher in the school…tough it out”
“Aww…damnit”
“What about you three? Is it a big change from Hiroshima?” she said looking to the them after they’d sat down.
“It’s a lot bigger…and it has a lot more electives” Temari started, thanking Tsunade when she handed out cookies that were fresh out of the oven.
“What about you Kankuro? Do you like it, do you hate it, are you going to survive?”
He chuckled a bit and nodded. “..Yeah I’ll live I’m sure. I love the Auto Tech class I got…and I get to watch over Gaara because I TA one of his classes.” he trailed off for a second in thought. “Oh! Speaking of which” he turned to his brother. “what is this little issue with that Hyuga kid?”
Gaara just looked at him.
“Hyuga? Hinata?”
Kankuro shook his head. “No, that Angel or whatever…Gaara wouldn’t stop staring at him all class. They’re partners in Graphic Design plus he has Hyuga in his Art Honors…he‘s been doing it every day since the first day of school”
“Hm…interesting.”
“ Hyuga Neji?”
“Neji?” they both asked in unison.
“yes…that’s his real name…the only people who know it are people involved with his uncle’s business…Yondaime and I take a trip across the states four times a year to promote their merchandise…we see Neji a lot as well as Hinata and Hanabi…”
“The Caged Bird…” Temari said thoughtfully. “that’s a strange name…”
“it’s why he prefers his middle name, Angel. He’s the only Hyuga with a middle name…it was his mother’s request before she died…” Yondaime had been listening from the living room and had walked in. he gave his wife a kiss before heading into the garage to work on his motorcycle.
“Actually…the Hyuga family is holding their fall banquet and we all go every year…you’ll get to meet Hiashi Hyuga in person as well as hang out with his children…it will make them happy.”
“when’s the banquet?”
“It’s tonight actually…sorry for the short notice…but we’re used to our routine…we just have to include you three from now on…I’m pretty sure you’ll catch up with us in no time…”
“Sounds like fun…what do you think?” Temari inquired to Kankuro who shrugged. “I thought that Hinata girl was kinda cute…it should be worth it”
She rolled her eyes. “..augh it’s the first month of school and you’re already hitting on girls younger than you?”
“what can I say I just have that touch…” “yeah right…”
“Oh and I am sorry to say Kankuro, that you can’t wear your make-up to the banquet.”
“aww why not?”
Naruto answered that question. “because these people are very formal. No one in their family aside from the cousin wears make-up...it’s been tradition in their family that the male of the house is treated with femininity until he turns 18...but since you are not in the Hyuga house they would consider it an insult to the male of the house…which is Neji.”
“please understand that any rules that we have to lay down when being in the presence of any Hyuga isn’t because we want to be mean…they are a proud clan that has lasted through hundreds of generations and their traditions are very orthodox and strict. They’re sophisticated and have yet to fully grasp modern-day living…”
“Soo basically all we have to do is act like we would if we were to visit the emperor of Japan and we should be ok?” Kankuro pointed out.
Naruto semi-shrugged. “pretty much. These people are really rich and snobby bastards…but if you piss them off they can make your life a living hell…it’s happened to a friend of mine who can’t go anywhere without being ridiculed because the Hyugas are so widely known.”
“wow and you socialize with these people?”
“C’est la vie…” Tsunade sighed. “well…be ready by 7:15pm…until then you can do what you want…” with that the other adult left the room. Once she was gone that was when the interrogation began.
“So…”
“…”
“you gonna tell us what you find so fascinating about Hyuga?”
“No…”
“why not?”
“Because…”
“Becaause& #8230;?”
“Because I don’t feel like it”
“Gah hopeless! You’re such a pain in the ass pipsqueak!” Kankuro growled.
Temari sighed heavily. “he doesn’t have to tell you anything Kankuro…”
“but I wanna know what it is about this girly boy that Gaara finds so interesting! You and I both know the kid hates everyone and everything and takes no interest in any aspect of life! So what is it about Hyuga that has his undivided attention?” he finished nearly out of breath.
Naruto perked up at this. “…you mean Gaara’s like…interested interested in Hyuga?”
“Er…I didn’t say that….”
“Well what else would it be?”
“Are you calling my brother gay?”
Naruto went shifty-eyed. “….maybe--GAH!” he suddenly found himself in a headlock.
“My lil bro ain’t gay! He hates everyone!”
“….”
“Come on now you two…stop arguing…that’s for Gaara to decide anyways” Temari said trying to calm the two hotheads.
“….”
“He’s calling Gaara gay Temari!”
“So what?! He obviously has an interest in Hyuga…though it’s no surprise, Hyuga has as many fan girls as Uchiha…”
“And a couple fan boys…” Kankuro stated accusingly as he eyed Naruto with an evil smirk.
Naruto tweaked and turned a little pink. “K-keh?! I hate Uchiha’s guts! Where are you trying to get at! Cause I don’t like him I hate him and there’s nothing in this world or the next that can say otherwise…”
“no but that hicky can…”
Tweak tweak, blush. “Damnit shut up that was ah…from…Sakura!”
“so far from what I’ve seen Sakura hates your guts and is dating Lee….”
“fuck…”
“Ha! So who’s the gay one now??”
“shut up! That still doesn’t eliminate the fact that Gaara likes Hyuga!”
“…So?…”
All three stopped and looked at him.
“Did you just say ‘so’ ? “ Kankuro wasn’t sure he’d heard right and had to verify it.
Gaara just gave him that ‘what are you deaf?’ look.
“Oh my god…my brother is gay! Both of them are! Oh my god what if I turn gay!?”
Temari smacked the oldest boy upside the head. “…that is not possible you have too large a fetish for looking up girl’s skirts and watching their boobs jiggle…”
“whooh thank god…I thought I was a goner for sure…”
“….”
Temari ignored him and looked at Gaara sternly. “…do you really like Hyuga?”
“….” he was hesitant, as if debating on what answer he wanted to give her before giving a single curt nod.
“Then why don’t you just tell the guy?” Kankuro began but Naruto shushed him.
“it wouldn’t be that easy…if you haven’t noticed…we’re dirt poor…at least compared to the Hyuga family…you think Hyuga would want anything to do with Gaara? They’re the rich upper class…they don’t mix well with people like us. He wouldn’t stand a chance. On top of that Hyuga has a million girls hounding over him…”
“Yeah well so does Uchiha and look who he devotes all his attention to….”
“can it Kankuro..” the blue-eyed Kitsune grumbled a fist shaking as an anger bubble appeared on his head. That only made the sand brother cackle.
The female of the group smacked them both for their stupidity then turned her attention back to your youngest brother. “..Gaara”
Turquoise shifted her way to indicate he was listening.
“Do you really like this Neji person?”
“…I’m…not sure…I’ve never liked anyone before so”
“well…what do you think about him?”
Kankuro butted in. “…ok let’s do this the easy way instead of the girly way…Gaara, what’s the first thing that comes to mind when you wake up in the morning?”
“….Hyuga”
“Okay&# 8230;who’s the first person you look for when you get to school?”
“….Hyuga”
“… alrighty, and who’s the one that you enjoy stalking and staring at the most?”
“….Hyuga”
“Where are you getting at Kankuro?” Temari queried, lofting a brow and folding her arms.
“Well it’s obvious ain’t it? The pipsqueak’s obsessed with this Hyuga…”
“Erm…that’s kinda creepy now that you think about it” Naruto stated rubbing his cheek.
“Why is it creepy?”
“think about it…this is Gaara we’re talking about. Gaara and Hyuga…”
“You know he has a point that is kinda creepy…” Kankuro agreed.
“Oh you boys are so retarded that it hurts to call you family sometimes” their sisters snapped.
“Have you figured out how you want to approach Hyuga on this?” she insisted.
Gaara shook his head then walked down the hall, pulling down the attic stairs to go up to his room, the only sound coming from him being the clicking of the stairs after they closed.
He stayed up there the whole day while their adopted brother took Temari and Kankuro out to see some shops and to catch a glimpse of Disneyland. He meanwhile sat up in his room working on a little project. It wasn’t for school or anything, but it kept him busy since he didn’t want to go out. Tsunade, his new “mother” of sorts graciously opted to go out and buy him his own art studio. They were poor, yes, but it was the least she could do since he had to live in the worst room in the house. That and it was all he had ever asked for.
“…” he stared at the painting he was doing, unsure of whether or not he got it right and decided that he’d failed, painting a big red X through it before tossing it aside where a small pile was beginning to grow.
“hn…pointless” he grumbled slumping into his bed. “I’ll never get it right…” with a sigh he fell back onto the mattress and dozed off, hoping some ideas would come to mind before he had to get up for the banquet.
As predicted, a knock was heard on the attic and Yondaime was heard calling for him to get ready to go. He hadn’t realized he’d been asleep for so long and growled, dragging himself out of bed to his dresser to find something they would deem appropriate.
Once dressed, his attire being a simple black t-shirt with his netshirt underneath and a pair of un-chained bondage pants, he went downstairs into the living room where everyone was waiting.
“everyone ready to go?”
They all nodded.
“let’s head out then, we don’t want to be late…” Yondaime exclaimed as he ushered them all out to the Excursion.
Once everyone was loaded and buckled they took off down the busy street, quickly making a left onto the freeway. It was amazing how the Hyuga children managed to get to school on time with the distance that they lived from the campus. They lived almost an hour from Anaheim High School, but somehow made it there on time every day.
The estate was right next to the beach, one particular cliff and cove being sectioned off from the public for their own personal use. The property itself was a good 1200 acres, not including their horse grounds and indoor amusement complete with a go-kart circuit, theatre, and restaurant. The pool on the cliff was Olympic size with real fountains and a second pool that lead out into the ocean. Next to that was a man-made hot spring for relaxing. Down at the beach was a crystal-clear cove, complete with a cave for exploring, a few coral reefs and a dock that tethered their two yachts which were next to the boathouse that held their jet skis, speedboats, and a real submarine.
Instead of living in a mansion they lived in a castle that was customized to their liking since the entire Hyuga clan lived there along with distant relatives of other clans as well as close friends and relatives that would visit from Japan and Europe. The castle could clearly house everyone in the state of California if they so wished. It was modeled after the Russian Palace that the Czar Nicholas and his Romanov family had resided in so it held the rectangular structure with the empty space in the center. The garage, which was through an arch to the right in the castle structure, was the size of a warehouse and had six stories: the 1st being for Limousines and guests, the 2nd for sedans and coupes, 3rd for vans and SUVs, 5th for motorcycles, quads, dirtbikes, and dune buggies, and the 6th for classics and collectors models. The roof held two helicopters, one private jet, and the Hyuga boy’s Kanitka. The Hyuga children had their own garages for their own vehicles as well. Behind the castle was the gardens, the labyrinth, and the stables. All in all it was a small city in itself.
“Duude…this place is HUGE” Kankuro stated in awe along with his two siblings.
“Yeah it is…but you get used to seeing it after a while…especially if you come to all of the gatherings and parties the Hyugas host. The only thing that sucks about this place is that it’s nothing but adults. There are only three children…Hanabi, the youngest, Hinata, the middle child, and Neji the oldest. It’s one reason why they’re so stuck up. It’s because they’re surrounded by adults all the time and have never really had any friends. Well…Hinata and Hanabi have friends, close knit groupies…Neji…I can say much about him. He comes to school then goes straight back to the estate”
“We’re here” Tsunade caught their attention then as they drove up to the gates to be checked off, Yondaime having handed one of the guards a personal invitation. Because that’s how it was. If you were not exclusively invited you weren’t allowed to attend. Once approved the gates opened and they were steered off in the direction of the guest parking before getting out and heading through the garage entrance to the main hall.
It seemed like half the city of Los Angeles were present and then some. As stated before, most of the people ranged in age from 21 to 90. Not the ideal group to be conversing with if your below the age of 18 and don’t have a high paying job like the aristocrats did. The three were amazed they were even allowed to mingle with the rich and famous. Naruto had already pointed out to them that they were the lowest class of society and yet here they were enjoying expensive delicacies and chatting with stars.
“hey mom…”
“Yes Temari?” Tsunade lofted a brow at the other blonde.
“Is it alright if we all go find our friends?”
“sure…I bet they’re in the arcade right now…Naruto will show you where it is”
Naruto heard her and smiled. “..yeah! I forgot that Shikamaru wanted a rematch on Soul Caliber II…come on you guys!” with that he took off, they having to run to keep up with him as he climbed three flights of stairs (even though an elevator and an escalator were available) then jolted down the right corridor and through set of large rosewood doors.
Inside was an arcade that would put any arcade store to shame. It had every arcade game ever made and tons of kids were on them, yet there still weren’t enough to harbor every game. Nobody ever had to wait in line, say for one game.
“Oh my god they have DDR! (Dance Dance Revolution) no way!” Kankuro practically squealed with joy as he ran up to Extreme, watching Sasuke duking it out with a man that looked like him only older.
“Who’s that…”
“Oh him? That’s Itachi, Sasuke’s older brother. He can be a royal prick sometimes but, he’s pretty cool once you get past his badass exterior. He a freshman in college…” Naruto explained to them just as the game finished. As soon as the game ended Naruto was lunged at.
“EEK!” he squeaked and fell over with a hot and sweaty Sasuke clinging to him looking determined. “E-Etto…e-evening Sasuke…”
“Dobe…you were supposed to be here over an hour ago…”
“I’m sorry…jeez…my parents were busy with a meeting at school give me a break” he mumbled when he was silenced with a kiss from the dark-haired male. He blinked a few times after he pulled away then stuck out his tongue. “…yick...you’re all sweaty and you taste salty…”
Sasuke rolled his eyes and got up, dragging the blonde with him. “quit bitching…come on you’re playing me…”
“oh I am, am I? Since when do you order me around?”
“since we started dating…”
“…..”
“I prove my point now get over here” Sasuke demanded as he selected Versus Mode (they didn’t have to pay for any of the games, courtesy of Neji’s uber computer skillz). Naruto sighed and did as he was told, leaving the other three to wander.
“…hmm…I’m gonna go play a round of air hockey with Shino and Kiba…” Kankuro nodded firmly to his decision and headed off for the air hockey room.
“I guess I’ll go find Ino and Sakura…they’re probably chilling out at the restaurant…see you later Gaara” Temari waved then walked away.
“….” he didn’t want to be there. He didn’t want to be surrounded by people. He didn’t like adults. What he did like was currently by himself playing his own hybrid version of DDR that contained ALL of the songs. He gave a look around to see that nobody was paying attention then walked over to Neji whom was currently enthralled in his stage of A Renaissance. When his stage ended he took a break, turning only to see Gaara standing there staring like he always did.
“Jesus!…don’t dooo that…god don’t you have anything better to do with your time than gawk at me??” Neji wondered as he heaved a sigh, wiping the crystal beads from his brow, some soaking into the headband he wore. Shockingly enough none of his black and red make-up had run or smeared during his game play, hinting he must have the very expensive sort.
“So…I take it the Uzumaki family is here if you are” he paused and glanced around, spotting Naruto then nodded. “…go figure…they’re the only low-class family allowed to come here…though I’m surprised you decided to join in the festivities…”
“…I’m only here for them…” and you he kept that little part to himself.
“Care to play a game with me?” Neji was offering a game? To a poor, low-class punk like him? That was almost a dream come true to anyone in Gaara’s position. Neji wasn’t one to offer anything to anyone for any reason. Then again the two of them were partners in two classes, they saw each other at least twice every day, and the brunette had successfully got Gaara to speak sentences when in the presence of others, a feat that Temari and Kankuro had never accomplished. In turn Gaara had shown people that Neji wasn’t a complete asshole…at least not to the redhead.
With a nod of his head he hopped onto the right side of the pad and waited for Neji to select the song. “…why don’t you pick one…I’ve played all of them at least twice tonight…I don’t care which you pick out…”
“hmm…how about…R3 to start us off?” he offered.
“oh my god Angel and Gaara are going head-to-head!” Ino suddenly called out and it got the attention of everyone in the arcade room. Got attention that the two players didn’t want.
A few seconds later there was a huge crowd gathered around the expanded DDR game pad (it possessing the nine-steps instead of just four and was twice in size), though they kept clear of the screen that was built into the floor behind the pads. Three larger screens surrounded the main screen so people in the back could watch whenever there was a tournament.
“…oh boy…” Neji mumbled under his breath, looking away from the swooning girls that were huddled in a group near him. Gaara eyed them and glared venomously, the females’ squeals and coos dying out quickly.
“Ready to go?” he asked the older boy who nodded. And so what started out as a friendly match turned into a battle for the best.
Neji was excellent in his DDR skills, considering he never went out and never had any friends (until Gaara), so he was naturally the best. Gaara however, was keeping up to his pace after only a few shaky moves.
“Wow…I’ve never seen anyone keep up with Angel like that..“
“That’s because it’s super rare to even see anyone playing with him”
Chatter was going on all around as most people cheered for Neji while others, mainly Naruto’s group, jeered for Gaara to whoop Neji’s ass. Both challengers ignored the crowd and focused on each other’s movements and the rhythm of the game. They were soon in sync with each other, each move fluid, as if they were mirrors to each other. Each step was perfect and each spin was in precise timing.
They went through an entire machine’s worth of songs and neither out bested the other. Their scores were a perfect match down to the last Marvelous and Perfect. Once out of breath, their chests constricted from loss of breath, the two boys gave up the machine to the next players and escaped to the seclusion of the restaurant.
“Man…I’ve never played with anyone so good before…where’d you learn to play?” Neji asked as he ordered them some fries and burgers, then handed Gaara a cup to fill his drink.
“Actually…I was only at Standard…I started playing when I was four…Kankuro and Temari taught me because Kankuro is obsessed with the game…it’s his life” Gaara replied, following Neji was a private booth to eat. He sat down across from the long-haired teen and munched at a few fries.
“Really?…well…you seemed to have caught on pretty quickly back there…I mean…nobody’s been able to keep up with me…DDR’s one of my passions since I have nothing better to do….well, when I’m not performing…”
“Performing?” the turquoise-eyed male blinked at him before taking a bite of his burger. Neji nodded.
“Yeah…I either sing and dance, or I play an instrument. The family calls me the “prodigy of the Hyuga Clan” though that doesn’t particularly interest me. Still, it gets me away from that so-called family of mine.” he paused to eat his own food before wiping his mouth with a napkin and taking a drink of his cola. “what about you? Do you possess any special skills or talents?”
Gaara made a thoughtful sound then tossed a few ketchup-covered fries into his mouth, resting his cheek in the palm of his hand as he contemplated that question. “….I paint and draw…I also write poetry…” he concluded with a nod.
“you’re a poetic artist?” Neji elucidated. He got a semi-nod in return. “That sounds interesting…how good are you?”
“Hmm…not as good as you are”
“Oh please…you know I really hate coming out on top of everything…so please don’t compare me to yourself…” he sighed a bit and rolled ivories. “Everyone thinks I’m this super asshole who’s bested everyone in everything and can never be turned down if I want something…though you proved that theory wrong when we first met…” he chuckled.
“…if you thought I was going to bow down and pamper you like the rest of the world you can think again…I don’t bow down to anyone…”
“And I wouldn’t expect you to…you’re the only one who doesn’t. that’s what impresses me. I don’t care for any of those people because all they see me for is my looks, my fame, and my money. That’s not the qualities you should look for in a person at all…it disgusts me” he snorted and finished his burger, then mimicked Gaara’s position, his face resting in his hand as he twiddled with some fries.
There was a moment of silence between the two when he picked up a fry, examining it boredly then eyed Gaara for a second before chucking the fried potato at him, hitting him square in the forehead.
“….”
He stares then throws another one at him.
“……..”
Smirk. let’s see how far….his thoughts trail off as he picks up a third one and throws it, but this time Gaara catches it and eyes him.
“Yes?” Neji replied to the look.
“….” there was no verbal answer, only the same fry he threw being chucked back at him.
“oh you didn’t…”
“maybe I did…” the redhead replied slyly.
“….” he huffed and glared then slowly slid from his seat before throwing another fry and taking off.
“Hey!!” Gaara was soon in hot pursuit. Neji was an excellent sprinter Gaara soon found out and was having a hard time keeping up with the other boy as he darted in and out of the crowd.
Bystanders looked on as the two weaved in and out of people and machines, cutting corners and almost tripping.
“Get back here damnit!” the younger shouted at Neji’s back as he quickly dodged someone walking his way but tripped and ended up falling on one particular Blonde.
“Ow damnit what the hell!? Angel?” Naruto blinked a few times when he came face-to-face with the celebrity.
“Er…sorry” he got up then helped Naruto to his feet when he was suddenly glomped from behind, practically face planting once again. “Ow…”
“Ha! Let’s see you get away this time!” Gaara paused and blinked slowly looking up at the people staring.
“Get off him you trash!” came the sudden outburst from one of the guests. The puny little 8th grader felt himself being hauled roughly off of Neji’s back and thrown aside, his siblings there to break his fall.
He winced a bit from being jerked around and stared as the one who threw him helped Neji tenderly to his feet and began dusting him off, more like feeling him up.
“Are you alright Angel? Did he hurt you?” the male asked.
Neji was at a loss for the moment until he heard people ganging up on Gaara.
“what did you think you were doing chasing Angel like that?”
“What are you a stalker or something? Think that you’re better than everyone else that you have to hound Angel!”
“what’s a dirty little poor punk like you doing here anyways? Shouldn’t you be getting back to that dumpster you call a home?”
“ENOUGH!”
All of the people crowding up on the small boy and his siblings ceased and stepped aside for Neji who was looking rather miffed.
“Don’t worry Angel we told him off he won’t be seen here anymo-” that sentence was cut short by a fist connecting with his jaw, sending him flying back into the group that had been assaulting the Kazekages.
Neji cracked and shook the hand that he’d used to punch the male, a scowl on his face. “…no one…and I repeat…NO ONE puts down another person in this HOUSE…is that understood? I catch anyone treating this family unfairly again and there’ll be hell to pay…” he demanded firmly, getting squeaks and nods in response. After all Neji could be a very scary person when he was angry.
“Get lost now, it’s almost time for everyone to leave” with that the large gathering began to file out of the arcade. Neji turned to Gaara and was going to apologize when a two men in black suits and shades approached along with an older man that looked a little like Neji.
“What is all this…Neji” the younger Hyuga tweaked and turned to his uncle. “Yes sir?”
“what was that just now?….you…a upstanding aristocrat fighting in our home?”
“But Hiashi-san”
“No…I don’t want to hear excuses…you were supposed to be at a photo shoot that you never showed up for anyways. Instead you were here screwing around like you always do and costing us time and energy to search for you”
Neji scowled and dropped his head.
“Now…I spoke with the photographer and he agreed to stay longer if we get it done now…”
“….”
“well?R 21;
“yes sir” he muttered, glaring angrily at the floor before looking to Gaara and his siblings. That was when Hiashi took notice to them and made a disturbed face.
“…what are people like them doing in this household?”
“We’re…um…we’re Uzumaki-san’s children..” Temari stated.
“Children? They only have one child…a son…I believe his name was Nathaniel…Nick…”
“Naruto…” Neji corrected.
“Don’t correct me boy…get going before you cost us the house…” he snapped.
Neji shot him a venomous look before walking away, glancing back at Gaara before exiting with the two other men.
“Well…shouldn’t you three be getting back to the Uzumakis? The gathering has long since past…I’ll let you go this time, but next time I will file for trespassing…” with that the man turned and left.
“…what a jerk…” Temari stated after they were in the truck, her expression clearly pissed.
“How could they treat people like that?”
“It’s called being rich enough to…look I’m sorry you guys ran into Hyuga-san…the only people he cares about are his daughters”
“what about Neji?” Gaara asked curiously.
“what about him?…Hyuga-san doesn’t give a damn about his nephew…he just cares about the money he brings in from his fame.” Naruto alleged.
“that’s messed up…” Kankuro snorted and crossed his arms.
“Neji…” Gaara repeated to himself quietly. Ok maybe his brothers were right. He was obsessed with the Hyuga boy.