Chapter Text
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Sasuke closed his eyes and took several deep breaths in an attempt to quell his anxiety. He didn’t think he’d be in that situation so soon again yet the abrupt change in his plans prompted him to face one of his most unfavorable events in the world. Peeking through the narrow slits of his eyelids when he felt a hand on his, he smiled weakly at his beloved.
“Are you going to be okay?” Naruto asked, squeezing his fiancé’s hand.
“I will be once we land. I hate flying,” Sasuke replied.
“I know you do,” Naruto said, “What can I do to help?”
“Distraction would be great,” Sasuke answered, growling when two fingers poked his forehead, “Itachi, you’re an asshole.”
“I’m making up for lost time. What do you want to do first once we land?” Itachi questioned.
“I want to go to that snowcone shack in Hinsdale. I remember all of us going on our birthdays. I want to relive that,” Sasuke responded, “After that, I’d love to visit that restaurant we used to go to every other Friday. Can we see if the toy store is still in the same shopping center? They had the best selection of action figures.”
“It’s your call of what you’d like to do while we’re here,” Naruto stated, “If you want to go swimming in a vat of pudding, I’m right behind you.”
“What the hell? Did you fry your one brain cell with that one?” Sasuke asked, looking out the window when light flooded it and he saw they were in the air, “You guys are good. I hate takeoff.”
“You always have,” Itachi said, “Now please share your itinerary with me so I know what to expect while we’re there.”
Sasuke went through the entire list while the plane soared through the sky. Naruto and Itachi asked several questions for clarification as well as added a few suggestions of their own. Itachi argued with Sasuke about visiting Kisame though the latter refused to change his mind and insisted that his brother see his former cellmate. Declaring that they’d take at least one day to drive to Sheridan, Sasuke mentioned he and Naruto would be able to find something to do in the vicinity. Itachi quietly thanked his brother.
The plane touched down a few hours later with Sasuke gripping Naruto’s hand until his hand was as white as his face. He feared breaking his fiancé’s hand yet couldn’t control the anxiety overrunning his senses. Breathing heavily by the time the plane began to taxi, he eased his hold on Naruto’s hand when he felt the blond squirm.
“Sorry,” Sasuke apologized, “Did I hurt you?”
“Nah, I’m fine,” Naruto replied with a bright grin, “Do you need to take a few minutes to calm down or do you want to get off the plane?”
“Get off the plane,” Sasuke answered, grabbing his carry-on as he stood, “I’m ready to get this trip going.”
Sasuke led Naruto and Itachi down the jetway to the terminal. He was on autopilot as he made his way to the baggage claim, thinking how much the airport remained the same in the years following his parents’ deaths. They were waiting for their luggage when Sasuke heard the loud growling from Naruto’s stomach. Rolling his eyes when Naruto blushed, Sasuke got everyone’s opinion of where to eat lunch. Both agreeing on the same restaurant made it easy for Sasuke, the trio grabbing their suitcases and trekking through the growing crowds of the airport until they reached their destination. Naruto insisted on paying since he planned on eating at least two combination meals, Sasuke and Itachi allowing him since the blond was dead set on it.
They threw their garbage away when they finished their meals and headed for the car rental company attached to the airport. It didn’t take long to sign the paperwork since Sasuke made the reservation online. With keys in hand, Sasuke set the GPS on his phone to lead him to the snowcone shop and they were off.
“That was delicious,” Naruto said, happily patting his abdomen once they finished the frozen concoctions.
“Which one? You had four,” Sasuke said.
“All of them. I think I may have liked the mango one the best though,” Naruto said.
“That brought back a lot of memories,” Itachi said from the backseat, Sasuke looking in the rearview mirror to meet his brother’s gaze.
“It did and it was nice. I remember when I was little Dad would put me on his shoulders every time we came here,” Sasuke said.
“He did that so you wouldn’t run across the parking lot. You were always so excited to be here,” Itachi said.
“Makes sense,” Sasuke said, “I think my adrenaline from the flight is starting to wear off. Let’s find our rental so I can take a nap. Then we’ll do everything else I hope to do today.”
It didn’t take long to find their rental house since Sasuke plotted out a path on his phone beforehand. He drove while Naruto and Itachi talked about ways to make Sasuke’s twenty-first birthday special as if he wasn’t there. Amused by some ideas they came up with, some made him realize how lucky he was to have them in his life.
“What do you think?” Naruto asked once their bags were unloaded.
“What do I think about what?” Sasuke inquired.
“Something cool to do on your twenty-first birthday. We can go to that huge gaming con that’s in town this weekend, go to the culinary creations museum, or let you decide what you want to do,” Naruto answered.
“Well, I don’t want to get shitfaced. That’s lost its appeal,” Sasuke stated, “I want to visit Mom and Dad for sure. I want you with me this time. You haven’t been properly introduced.”
“I’d like that,” Naruto said softly.
“Then I figured we’d drive to Sheridan so Itachi can visit Kisame,” Sasuke said.
“You figured incorrectly. I would like to visit him tomorrow instead,” Itachi said as he passed them.
“Yeah, ok,” Sasuke said, taking a deep breath before exhaling loudly, “I don’t know. How about we just play it by ear. Maybe we can check the con that’s going on and the museum out sometime this weekend. I just don’t want to cram everything into one day and then wind up too exhausted to enjoy the rest of the trip.”
“That’s smart,” Naruto said.
“One of us has to have more than one brain cell,” Sasuke said, laughing when his fiancé smashed his face with a hand, “Nah, you’re smart too, moron.”
“Your compliment has fallen on deaf ears,” Naruto said, sticking his tongue out as he raced up the stairs.
Sasuke explored the first floor and was impressed by how spacious and modern it was. It made him daydream about owning a home with Naruto though it was years down the road. Thinking about what he would improve upon once he was a homeowner, he barely felt the vibration of his phone in his jeans pocket before the call was sent to voicemail.
“Hey, Jiraiya. How are you?” Sasuke questioned.
“Well but more importantly how are you. Looking forward to the big two one? Have anything awesome going on? I remember you mentioning going back to Chicago,” Jiraiya responded.
“I’m in Chicago with Naruto and Itachi as we speak. We’re going to take it as it comes but I’m visiting my parents for sure,” Sasuke said.
“I called to wish you a happy birthday. I know it’s a few days early but I don’t want to intrude on your celebration. I also wanted to tell you that I’ve deposited the balance of your trust fund into your checking account but it won’t be available until Sunday. Legalities and all,” Jiraiya said.
“Wow, I wasn’t expecting that. I figured we’d sit down and there would be a pile of paperwork to fill out,” Sasuke said.
“There is some paperwork but as your trust manager I can dole it out as I see fit. I think it would be wise to get together and come up with a financial portfolio for you. I know you won’t blow your money but I’d love to see you grow the balance through wise investments,” Jiraiya revealed.
“Yeah, definitely. I was going to call you about that when we got home. Want to plan for Wednesday? We’ll be home Monday evening and I’d like a day to rest,” Sasuke said.
“That’s perfect. I’ll see you then. Don’t forget to check your mail when you get home. I sent you a little something,” Jiraiya said.
“You didn’t have to do that,” Sasuke said.
“I wanted to. Get back to it, kid. Have fun and see you on Wednesday.”
“Have a good rest of your day, Jiraiya,” Sasuke said, pressing the end call button a second later.
Sitting on a ledge as shock rushed over him, Sasuke thought he’d take his newfound wealth in stride. The phone call from Jiraiya and knowledge that his trust fund had been turned over to him and would be available in days floored him. He was so lost in thought that he didn’t notice Naruto’s presence until he held his hand.
“Sorry to startle you. Are you alright? You have this dazed look going on,” Naruto said.
“I’m officially a millionaire,” Sasuke said, Naruto’s eyes growing, “Well, officially on Sunday but you know what I mean. I don’t even know what to do with that much money.”
“I suggest talking with Jiraiya. He’ll steer you down the right path,” Naruto stated.
“That’s already in the works. I’m going to visit him when we get home,” Sasuke said, “This is just wild. Two years ago I was scraping pennies together to buy a pack of ramen and now I can outright buy a house and everything that goes with it.”
“You could but wait on that. We don’t need that responsibility on top of everything we already have,” Naruto suggested.
“I figured we could save that for after we graduate for good. Get our careers going and all of that,” Sasuke said, “Can we play what if?”
“Sure,” Naruto replied with a grin.
“What kind of house would you want? Something small and homey or something spacious and elegant?” Sasuke inquired.
“Honestly, I want something like Iruka has. That was the first place I felt like I belonged and love the feeling I get when I’m there. I know it all has to do with Iruka but the surroundings bring back heartwarming feelings,” Naruto answered.
“I like that,” Sasuke said, a gentle smile on his lips, “I don’t want anything like we had when I was growing up. That’s too much for me. I love the idea of getting a house like Iruka’s. I do have one request.”
“What’s that?”
“How about a second floor? I did like that when I was growing up and it seemed like we had more room than most first floor houses. Just an idea,” Sasuke said.
“We can look at both kinds when the time is right,” Naruto said, pecking his fiancé’s lips, “Itachi wants to know what you’d like for dinner. It’s almost that time.”
“Whatever you guys want is fine with me,” Sasuke said, Naruto frowning at him, “How about Greek?”
“Perfect,” Naruto responded.
Taking Naruto’s hand, he followed the blond into the living room where Itachi waited. They picked out a Greek restaurant that had several locations and that the Uchihas had visited in years past. Once their meals were chosen, they discussed what Sasuke wanted out of the trip before switching gears and talking about the upcoming semester. It was decided that Itachi would take responsibility for most of the housework and grocery shopping since Sasuke and Naruto would be inundated with coursework and projects. Though they hated leaving most of the upkeep of the apartment to Itachi, they were assured that he didn’t mind and it gave him a sense of purpose.
They headed to the toy store that Sasuke mentioned once the kitchen was tidied up. It was just as Sasuke remembered, toys bursting from every nook and cranny. He found a display with characters from League of Legends as he turned a corner. Searching for specific action figures, Sasuke grinned when he saw the ones he wished to buy.
“Hey, look at this,” Sasuke said, holding the packages up for Naruto to see.
“Ezrael and Aphelios. That brings back some memories,” Naruto said.
“I know not all of them were good but we did have fun that night,” Sasuke said.
“I’m glad we got past that. Maybe we can dress up as them for this Halloween. Make even better memories,” Naruto suggested.
“We’ll see,” Sasuke said.
They wandered the city until the hour grew late, returning to the house around eleven. Heading to bed after midnight, Sasuke and Naruto took a shower together amid soft kisses and gentle touches. Murmurs of love filled the bathroom and smiles were upon their faces by the time they were done. Ending the day by making love, Sasuke laid on his back and lifted his arm so Naruto could snuggle next to him.
“Today has been the perfect day,” Naruto declared.
“Almost perfect. I wasn’t too fond of the flight,” Sasuke said.
“Well, other than that. Are you looking forward to tomorrow? I think it’s the slowest day we have set aside,” Naruto said.
“Don’t tell Itachi but I plan on taking him to Sheridan on Sunday as well. I want him to enjoy this trip also. I couldn’t imagine what I’d do if you were incarcerated and I could only see you a few times a year,” Sasuke said, “I want to do whatever I can to make it so he can see Kisame as much as possible.”
“He’ll love it but probably argue with you. He thinks once is enough,” Naruto stated.
“He’s thinking wrong,” Sasuke said, stifling a yawn, “We can talk about this in the morning though. Love you, Starshine.”
“Love you too, Sassy,” Naruto said, giggling when Sasuke smacked his backside.
The next day dawned with Itachi waking early yet letting Sasuke and Naruto sleep. They were wakened by the sweet scent of pancakes wafting into their room, the duo going through their morning routine before going to the kitchen. Shocked that his brother could whip up something without shopping for food, Sasuke understood when Itachi told him about the pantry ingredients and in-date perishables the homeowner had left for them.
“That was nice,” Sasuke said, “We still need to go shopping sometime today.”
“We can do that once the kitchen is clean and everyone is ready to go,” Itachi said.
“Wrong. You’re going to visit Kisame today,” Sasuke declared.
“That’s what I mentioned before we got here,” Itachi said.
“You’re also going on Sunday,” Sasuke said, holding up a hand when his brother tried to protest, “Sunday has extended visiting hours so you’re going then. I don’t care if it’s my birthday or not. Three hours isn’t going to make or break this trip.”
“I thank you,” Itachi said quietly, bowing his head respectfully.
“Alright then. Let’s eat and get this show on the road. Visiting starts in two and a half hours. It’s at least an hour's drive there,” Sasuke said.
“You’re the one that takes forever doing his hair,” Naruto said, laughing when his fiancé shoved his hand against the blond’s cheek.
As Naruto predicted, he and Itachi were ready long before Sasuke. He rushed through the task while still being presentable according to his standards. Ignoring his fiancé’s kindhearted jabs about the delay in leaving, Sasuke flipped him off and grabbed the keys before heading out the door.
The drive to Sheridan was quicker than Sasuke had anticipated so he suggested they drive around the area closest to the prison for something for him and Naruto to do. They found a laser tag center a few miles away that would open thirty minutes after visiting hours began as well as an ice cream shop that made their own blend of the frozen treat. Finally figuring out how to spend the next couple of hours, Sasuke directed the car toward the prison and let his brother out of the vehicle.
“I doubt you will but call me if you get done early. I’ll be here at three,” Sasuke said.
“You’re right. I plan on enjoying every minute to the fullest. I shall see you at three. Have fun and tell me later all about everything you did,” Itachi said.
After a final goodbye, Sasuke and Naruto were on their way to the laser tag center. They were the only customers and since the employee didn’t want to make them wait, she let them square off against each other. The matches were brutal; both pulling out their most vicious video game tactics to take the other down. Naruto’s strategy won him the overall victory, the blond falling back on the methods he used during their Counter-Strike tournament. Sasuke was a good sport, rewarding Naruto with a kiss before they left for the ice cream shop.
The atmosphere was bright and cheerful when they entered the establishment. Sasuke studied the menu board while Naruto fired off flavor after flavor he wanted to try. Both decided to share a deluxe banana split, Naruto choosing the flavors for the six scoops of ice cream. Taking their monstrous dessert to a table, they ate and mused about how Itachi’s visit with Kisame was going. Sasuke figured they were catching up on lost time while Naruto thought Itachi’s former cellmate had been granted parole. Neither wanted to think about it too much since they didn’t need to be in the know, only deciding to speak of it if Itachi brought it up.
Sasuke consumed two scoops of ice cream before his stomach protested, leaving the rest of the dessert to Naruto. Throwing their trash away and thanking the worker for their sundae, Sasuke realized it was time to head back to the prison. He took the scenic route to allow his brother more time with Kisame. Finally pulling into the visitors’ parking lot, Sasuke put the car in park when he saw Itachi standing on the sidewalk.
“How did it go?” Sasuke asked as Itachi slid onto the backseat.
“It went well. Kisame has his parole hearing next Saturday. We went over possible questions they may ask and appropriate responses,” Itachi said, “He swears I’m more helpful than his public defender.”
“You probably are,” Sasuke said, “How do you feel about going back to the house for a nap? Naruto and I wore ourselves out playing laser tag and eating the biggest sundae I’ve ever seen.”
“If that’s the biggest you’ve ever seen, you need to hang out at the burger joint near Iruka’s house. They have one that puts the one we had to shame,” Naruto said.
“I think I’ll pass on that one unless you’re eating all of it,” Sasuke said.
“You’re on,” Naruto said with a cheesy grin.
“I don’t mind at all,” Itachi said.
The ride was mostly silent since Naruto fell asleep. Itachi kept his brother company until they neared the city and traffic became heavier. They finally made it through the rush hour traffic and to their rental house. It was too late for Sasuke to nap so he rested on the couch while Itachi and Naruto made dinner. Listening to them talk while they prepared the meal was interesting and he finally drifted off as their soft voices lulled him to sleep.
“He’s out like a light,” Naruto said after checking on his fiancé.
“He always did fall asleep when Mom and Dad were talking quietly,” Itachi reminisced, “I’m not surprised he’s fallen asleep now.”
“He’s super relaxed and safe in his surroundings,” Naruto said, “This will give me time to talk with you about his birthday dessert. I was thinking about making a vanilla sponge cake with whipped cream frosting and fruit decorating it. I was thinking about kiwi, strawberries, and blueberries. Maybe some mangos.”
“He’d love that. I’m glad you didn’t mention a tomato cake,” Itachi said, smiling when Naruto chuckled.
“Nah, I couldn’t subject us to that,” Naruto said, “Remember that thing I showed you a while ago? The one online that I wanted to get him?”
“Yes, it was beautiful,” Itachi replied.
“I ordered it. It took a little longer than I had hoped for it to come in but I got it customized. I’m surprised it arrived in time. I hope he likes it,” Naruto said.
“He’s going to absolutely love it,” Itachi said, “It could be a sticker and he’d love it. It’s a gift from the heart and it’s from you.”
“Maybe. Are we still on for you asking him to stick around when you see Kisame? You can introduce Sasuke to him,” Naruto said.
“That would be the best plan,” Itachi said.
“Good. Glad we had this talk,” Naruto said, grinning at Itachi as he thought about how wonderful Sasuke’s birthday would be.
Sunday rolled around and Sasuke found himself in bed alone shortly after dawn. It was reminiscent of the year before yet so many circumstances had changed. Grumbling as he rolled out of bed, he quieted when he smelled the scent of cinnamon. He donned a t-shirt and wandered into the kitchen to find Naruto directing Itachi on how to make a strawberry fan for the French toast they made. Grinning when he recalled his own failed attempts at the trick, he wasn’t surprised when his brother mastered it in one go.
Breakfast was delicious, Sasuke immensely enjoying the French toast topped with strawberries and powdered sugar that he had come to love. Neither let him clean up, Naruto and Itachi urging him to relax while he could since they had a busy day planned. Sasuke took their advice and sunk into the tub, enjoying the steamy bubble bath while he could. He wasn’t sure of their plans for the day except for taking Itachi to visit Kisame and dinner along with a play that evening. Closing his eyes, he soaked up the tranquility until he heard a soft knock at the door. He knew the knock from anywhere and called for Naruto to come in. Smiling gently as Naruto approached the tub, he lifted an arm and held the blond’s hand.
“Itachi wanted me to tell you that visitation begins in a little under two hours,” Naruto said, “He also said if you aren’t up to it then you guys don’t need to go.”
“I promised him so we’re going,” Sasuke said, climbing out of the tub and thanking his fiancé for a towel, “Let me get ready and we’ll be on our way. Are you sure you don’t want to come with us?”
“I’m sure. I need to bake your cake,” Naruto said, holding a finger to Sasuke’s lips when he opened his mouth, “It’s a surprise. All you need to know is you’re getting a cake.”
“Alright,” Sasuke said, pecking Naruto’s lips, “Love you.”
“Love you too,” Naruto said.
Rushing through his morning routine, Sasuke was ready in record time. The drive was faster than he and Itachi expected though it was Sunday morning. Surprised that Itachi wanted to introduce him to Kisame, Sasuke followed his brother into the prison. He had only been there one time though he was preoccupied with thoughts of seeing Itachi for the first time in eleven years. The nervousness that Itachi displayed shocked him since he had spent years as Kisame’s cellmate.
“You ok?” Sasuke asked.
“I’m just happy to see him. I’m happily anxious,” Itachi said, a genuine smile gracing his face.
“Let me know if you want me to leave you two alone. I don’t want to be the third wheel,” Sasuke said.
“Thank you,” Itachi said.
Glad when a guard came to let the visitors into the guest area, Sasuke slid a chair next to Itachi’s. Kisame was brought into the secured section of the room, Sasuke glancing at his brother and seeing a grin on his face. He waited for the two to exchange pleasantries before he was introduced to Kisame.
“It’s good to finally meet you,” Kisame said, “I’ve heard a lot of good things about you recently.”
“Likewise. I hear you have a parole hearing coming up,” Sasuke said in an attempt to make conversation.
“I do,” Kisame confirmed, “Itachi has been so gracious to help me prepare for it.”
“He’s good like that,” Sasuke said with a smirk, “I’m going to sit over at the table so you two can have some time alone.”
“Nice meeting you, Sasuke,” Kisame said, saluting him as he walked away.
Sitting at the table at the back of the room, Sasuke dug his phone out of his jeans’ pocket and sent Naruto a text. He knew his fiancé was busy creating his cake but he wanted to check in regardless. Talking with Naruto when the blond had time, visitation was over before Sasuke knew it.
“Ready?”
Looking up to find his brother’s gaze settled on him, Sasuke stretched as he rose. He couldn’t wait to hear how Itachi’s visit with Kisame had gone yet wanted his brother to open up to him in his own time. After gathering their prohibited items from the guard in the waiting room, Sasuke bid him a good day and followed Itachi outside.
“Thank you for bringing me up here on your birthday. I pray with everything I am that the next time I see Kisame will be when he’s released from here,” Itachi said as Sasuke steered the car onto the main road.
“I hope so too. Do you think he has a shot of being paroled?” Sasuke inquired.
“I hate to put a wager on it but I think he has a good chance. We went through a lot of the questions they usually asked. I just wish we had more time to discuss them at length,” Itachi answered.
“You’ve done all you can to help,” Sasuke said, “When’s his hearing?”
“Next month. He found out last night that it had been delayed. He’s ready to get it over with,” Itachi said.
“I bet. If there’s anything I can do, let me know,” he said.
“I will,” Itachi said, “Are you ready to go back to the house?”
“Yeah. I want to see what Naruto has cooked up,” Sasuke responded.
“Are you excited about this evening?” Itachi asked.
“Definitely. A lot of it is going to feel like Mom and Dad are there,” Sasuke replied.
“They never left us,” Itachi said quietly, Sasuke’s eyes misting with tears.
“You’re right,” Sasuke said, “Remember when we saw the live show of that one cartoon we loved as kids? I know we’re seeing Much Ado About Nothing but I know I’ll see that memory once we walk into the theater.”
“I remember that vividly. It was endearing watching you have so much fun over a bunch of squirrels,” Itachi said.
“Are you dissing me?” Sasuke inquired, briefly glancing at his brother.
“Absolutely not,” Itachi answered.
Traffic was beginning to pick up by the time they reached their rental house. Sasuke was ordered to stay in the car while Itachi went to check on Naruto’s progress with the cake. Climbing out of the vehicle when Itachi waved him in, Sasuke wasn’t prepared for what awaited him inside. Itachi and Naruto sang ‘Happy Birthday’ while the blond held the cake topped with twenty-one candles. Blowing them out once they got done singing, Sasuke couldn’t help but grin.
“This is beautiful. Where did you get the fruit?” Sasuke questioned.
“We placed a grocery order when you were taking a nap on Friday,” Itachi responded.
“Why do you think we never let you near the refrigerator?” Naruto asked with a smirk.
“Makes sense. It looks delicious. I can’t wait to eat it,” Sasuke said.
“Then let’s dig in,” Itachi said.
Sasuke took the knife that his brother handed him, making a wish before he sliced the cake. It saddened him to destroy the perfection of the decorations but he was craving sweets. Doling out pieces to Naruto and Itachi, Sasuke wandered into the living room and sat on the couch. Naruto followed suit moments later while Itachi got comfortable in a chair. Sighing happily, Sasuke smiled as he looked between them.
“This is great. Thank you so much,” Sasuke said after taking a bite.
“You’re welcome. This was my first time making a cake with fruit. I’m glad it turned out well,” Naruto said.
“You did a wonderful job, Starshine,” Sasuke said, leaning over and brushing his lips across his fiancé’s.
After having their fill of cake, Itachi and Naruto cleaned up the kitchen. Sasuke answered emails from the esports team account while he waited. Most were from prospective students or high school teams wanting to schedule a tour with them. Checking his calendar, he forwarded the emails to Neji and Shino to ask their opinion. He was in the midst of replying to Neji when he felt firm hands massage the base of his neck. Closing his eyes and moaning softly, he smiled when he felt lips on his cheek.
“Can you come with me? I have something to give you,” Naruto said.
“I told you not to worry about a gift. You being here with me is gift enough,” Sasuke said.
“When have I ever listened?” Naruto questioned.
“You’re such a moron,” Sasuke teased as he stood, “After you.”
Sasuke held onto Naruto’s forefinger while the blond led him to their bedroom. Sitting on the bed when instructed, his brows furrowed when Naruto produced a small gift bag. He thanked him when handed the bag and dug through the tissue paper, pulling out a rectangular box. Opening the lid, he gasped when his eyes landed on the most beautiful necklace he had ever seen. It had a silver chain with an intertwined hearts pendant dangling from it. The hearts had one small gem each, one ruby and the other opal. His gaze lifting to stare at Naruto, he couldn’t think of the words to thank him.
“I wanted to get you something really special and I saw this while surfing the web one afternoon. Those are our birthstones. The hearts spoke to me since I feel are hearts are entangled with the other’s,” Naruto said.
“I don’t know what to say. I love it. This is one of the best gifts I’ve ever received,” Sasuke said.
“Would you like me to put it on?” Naruto inquired.
“Yes, please,” Sasuke answered.
Lifting the hair at the back of his head, Sasuke waited for Naruto to fasten the chain behind his neck. He lifted the pendant when the clasp shut, studying it further. The detail was exquisite, the engraved vines of ivy wrapping around the hearts. Grinning at Naruto, Sasuke lifted his head and exchanged a kiss full of thanks and love with his fiancé.
“Thank you so much,” Sasuke said, “I’m never taking it off.”
“I’m glad you like it,” Naruto said, sitting next to Sasuke on the bed, “We better get going if we want to make our dinner reservation in time. Happy birthday, Sasuke. I love you so very much.”
“I love you too, Starshine. More than words can say,” Sasuke said.
The rest of Sasuke’s birthday was near perfection. They had time before their reservation for a visit to Sasuke and Itachi’s parents’ grave. Though they joked about having a party at the cemetery, it was decided it would be disrespectful and they’d bring a small bouquet of heart balloons instead. Sasuke spoke of all the birthdays he missed with them but was glad to see them on such a milestone. Though tears were shed, Sasuke couldn’t have been happier.
Dinner was an extravagant affair. They dined at a seafood restaurant Sasuke and Itachi’s father would take them on special occasions. The cost shocked Sasuke and he mentioned he’d pay until he learned that Itachi and Naruto had been saving their money and pooled it together for the meal. Though they urged him to order whatever his heart desired, Sasuke was modest in his selection, choosing a seared swordfish steak. He enjoyed it immensely.
The play was an entertaining experience. All were familiar with it yet seeing it performed live was something to remember forever. Sasuke couldn’t help but laugh at every joke and became solemn during the dark times. He knew how it ended yet chuckled when Benedick and Beatrice professed their love for one another, sealing the confessions with a kiss.
The flight home was uneventful and they rested for a day before Sasuke met up with Jiraiya to set up an investment portfolio. He insisted that the meeting be held at his apartment so Itachi and Naruto could ask questions that would never dawn on him. The meeting was productive, Jiraiya steering him into low-risk investments yet would have a sizable return over time. Glad that the majority of his released trust funds were set aside for when he needed them the most, Sasuke thanked Jiraiya for his help and invited him over for the following weekend for dinner.
But now it was time to go back to school, the remaining time between Sasuke’s birthday and the beginning of the semester passing in a flash.
Sasuke zoomed along on his longboard while Naruto trailed behind on his bike. He was mentally categorizing everything he had to do that day by importance, not noticing a chip in the curb he was approaching. His board flew out from under him once he hit the curb, searing pain shooting through his hand as he sought to catch himself. Rolling onto his back, Sasuke clutched his hand to his chest and hissed in pain.
“What happened?” Naruto asked as he got off his bike and ran toward him, “Are you hurt?”
“My wrist hurts like hell. I’m starting to get nauseous,” Sasuke replied.
“Let’s get you to the clinic,” Naruto said.
Leaving his bike chained to a rack, Sasuke thanked Naruto when he helped him up. Dizziness began to creep in and he leaned heavily on Naruto as they trekked to the clinic. It was thankfully empty by the time they arrived and Sasuke was ushered back to a room within minutes. He situated himself on the table with Naruto’s help until he was laying down. Closing his eyes to gain control of his body, he opened them when a man he presumed to be the doctor came in.
“Hi, Sasuke. I’m Dr. Yakushi though you can call me Kabuto. What seems to be the matter today?”
As he described what happened, Sasuke couldn’t dismiss the small voice in the back of his head telling him that he had heard that name before.