.. you give me a feeling that i never want to lose .. [part II]
Characters :: Sakura and Naruto.
Setting :: The slums on the way to the Blue Butterfly
Rating :: PG-13; just for a few little moments, but most of it is good, clean (sometimes wet) fun.
Warnings :: Looooong and obnoxiously cute XD
Summary :: Sakura and Naruto meet for the first time...creating their first friendship.
[this is the second part to Naruto and Sakura's RP, please read the first post before continuing]
When she disregarded the clothes, he inwardly breathed a sigh of relief and smiled lopsidedly at her. There was one obstacle out of his path. "That's good to hear." The next question threw him for a bit of a loop, however, since he'd never been asked anything like it before. "Where...I sleep? Uh, just...upstairs, usually, in whatever rooms are free. Don't really have much stuff, so don't really have a single room to keep. An' I don't always stay at the Orphanage, either." He was babbling again, he could feel it, but damn, it was so rare anyone showed any interest in his life it was hard to stop himself. "W...Why?"
"Wait...you don't sleep in the same bed every night?" It was a concept that Sakura never heard of before, then again, with being an only child in a rich household she was entitled to a personal bedroom. She giggled at the boy's stuttering, figuring he wasn't used to a girl asking him so many questions before. "I was just wondering, that's all. Just a bit...curious. Then again, curiosity killed the cat, right?" Sakura winked, "Well, are we ready to head out now? I don't want to stay out too late. My mother may grow worried and send out a search party." Grabbing Naruto by the hand she led him to the door, half-tugging him along the way. "You caught your breath already, right? Let's go!"
"Not usually..." he began, trying to ignore the odd mannerisms the girl was starting to display. He certainly didn't have much grounds for comparison in behaviour, and was more than a little out of his element, as was so often the case when people weren't either trying to beat him or talk down to him. "Just seems kinda boring that way, you know?"
But suddenly she was grabbing him, jerking him towards the door. He stumbled a bit before catching his footing again, walking behind her quickly and resisting the urge to pull ahead again. He could do her the favor of leading this time, he decided. "Well, if you're ready to go, let's book it! After all this runnin' around, I could use a big plate of noodles or something." His mouth was almost watering at the very idea of the Blue Butterfly's cooking, and as he felt the cold weight of coin in his pocket, he decided he could splurge a bit.
"Alright, slowpoke. I have no idea where this place is, so you lead the way!" She playfully pushed him out the door, leaning forward a bit to add a bit of her body weight for added strength. Smiling when they were out the door, she glanced up at the sky to make sure she still had enough time. Noticing the sun was still way up in the sky, she nodded, glad that she could stay out a while longer. "So, which way, Mister Uzumaki?" Giggling, she slipped her arm around his right, glancing left and right.
Throwing his head back and pushing his shoulders back, Naruto shot out his hand dramatically with finger pointing down the path to their destination. "There, to the North!" he yelled in his best manly voice, not even knowing if that was north, and hoping she wouldn't correct him if it wasn't. Half-marching and half-strutting, he started walking down the street again. "Follow me, Madame Haruno," he added, trying to pull her along again, but no too hard this time.
Giggling at the boy's display, she walked with him, looking at the buildings and rundown homes of the city. He's lived like this all his life... She looked up at the blond who was strutting along in his own world. I wonder how he can remain so happy in a world like this? Sakura was a girl who knew how to put on a fake smile whenever she was sad, but her eyes would always give way to her true emotions. Certainly Naruto would give off the same expression in his, but she saw nothing. No pain. No anguish. It was as if the boy himself was a symbol for hope, a jewel found in the deepest and darkest of caves that shone even in pitch black shadow.
Unconsciously gripping her hand around his arm more firmly, she glanced down at the stones that made the street. They appeared slippery and worn, a few pieces missing in some places, huge chunks missing in others. Perhaps there was just too much that needed to be done to Konoha. Was it still capable of being fixed? Or was the damage beyond repair?
She shook her head, trying to think of happier thoughts. Sakura met someone that she could talk to as if she knew him her entire life. It made her so happy yet, as she looked up at the sky, watching the sun slip slightly past the noon mark, she knew this day would end. She never felt so lonely in her life. If it wasn't for the warm presence at her side, she could have sworn that she was indeed alone in this world. Everything and everyone just a passing memory. Would she ever see him again after today? Sakura frowned at the thought, hoping he wouldn't just up and disappear like many people she held conversation with on the street. This feeling was different, a feeling she didn't want to give up. She had to ask, "Naruto...after today, would you forget me?"
He blinked and looked over at her curiously, tilting his head to the side. Forget her? The thought had never even passed through his head. He rarely forgot anyone he'd met, least of all ones who gave him as much acknowledgement as she had. But the question was so stunning, so unexpected, that he just fell in step with her for a moment, thoughts drifting through his head and trying to find shape. Finally, he managed to form the words. "Of course I'm not gonna forget you! How could I forget a girl with hair like yours, huh?" he jibed, goofy grin creeping across his features. "Forgetting you would be like forgetting...a flying dog!"
And he wouldn't forget the laughter, still ringing fresh and clear in his hears, bells tolling. Wouldn't forget the piggy-back ride roaring down main-street like an out-of-control cart, the water fight leaving rainbows dancing in his eyes, the smell of sweat and summer and sun. And the smile, a genuine smile, the kind that he so rarely had directed at him. No day like today would ever fade from his memory. No one so close to what he thought a friend might be could even be left behind.
"Why, you gonna forget about me? 'Cuz maybe I should dunk you in the fountain again, just to make sure you don't! Wouldn't be wise of you to forget the great King of the Streets, Naruto Uzumaki!"
Smiling, Sakura laughed, "Thank you, Naruto. You don't know how much that means to me..." Her green eyes lit up, "Although, I'm pretty sure that I would dunk you." She laughed again, her smile returning to her face. "And what are you saying, comparing me to a flying dog, huh?" Her eyes squeeze shut as she laughed even more. "Oh gosh, Naruto. A girl could die of laughter around you. Not saying you look funny or anything, but if I am like a flying dog, then what would that make you?"
He grinned broadly, savoring the sound of her laughter as it rang out, and snorted when she said she'd be the one dunking him. Yeah, right. When she posed the net question, though, he tapped his chin slowly, eyes screwed up in mock-concentration. "Well, I guess if you're a flying dog...I must be some kinda...talking flying dog! Yeah, something cool like that! With, uh, with fire breath! Yeah, that's right, fire breath! So don't you think you could be the incredible Naru-dog, no siree! It's, y'know, just about invincible." For some reason, he just couldn't seem to stop himself talking, no matter how ridiculous it all sounded. And, he supposed, that was what made it so fun.
Waving her hands in a playful, mocking manner Sakura sarcastically commented, "Ooooh! Fire breath! What am I ever going to do." She giggled, Naruto could be awfully cute. Wait, what? She barely knew him, and already thought of him as if she knew the boy all her life. Oh well, but seriously, a fire-spewing flying dog? She giggled again, the image of Naruto flying around with paws and a tail, flames shooting from his mouth as he screamed, 'Hey, Sakura! I told you so!'
Of all the things Naruto could have replied with, it had to be that. This boy can never get boring. "Well, why don't I get any cool powers? Like...being able to break mountains with my fist! Or if that's too much, then at least let me smash down a few trees or something." She laughed again, "You're a fun guy, Naruto. Don't ever change."
"Pssh, you're just some court girl, why would you have super powers? It's not like you're an amazing King like me, y'know. Besides, you can fly! Isn't that great by itself?" Flying away from this dying little town had been a dream of his for a long time, something to tantalize his subconscious in the long, lonely nights. He could care less about fire breath, or smashing mountains, or anything, so long as he could change the destiny the world kept trying to force upon him.
"And why would someone like me wanna change, huh?" he scoffed. "I think I'm pretty fantastic just the way I am! Nah, I'm never, ever gonna change, 'specially not if I have to change into someone like that stuffy Iruka, or all those pissy merchants." Truthfully, he wouldn't mind being someone like Iruka, kind and respected and looked up to, but his pride was all he really had in life. And changing might mean sacrificing that, or losing what made him special. No, change was certainly not on his menu.
Sakura stopped, jerking a bit since she was still linked to Naruto. She looked away quickly, trying to hide her face from him. Tears fought against the young woman's face as so many things sprung at her from all directions in her mind. Just some court girl. Weak. There is nothing you can do to save this world. No matter how hard. You. Try. "Shut up!" Sakura screamed at the top of her lungs, driving the thoughts away from her mind. Tears began pouring down her cheeks as she released Naruto's arm, falling to the ground clutching her face in utter helplessness. "Just...shut up." She continued her sobbing, her cheeks turning slightly red as she began to fight the flow of tears with the back of her hands. Each movement was in vain, however, as more tears just continued to pour down.
It had been a long time since she cried. It seemed that with all those years of holding back her tears from the Akatsuki and the rest of the court, those tears finally caught up with her, shoving against her in giant waves, rendering her helpless. She sniffled, trying to regain control of her emotions, wiping more and more until her eyes grew sore.
The sudden cry was like a sucker-punch to the gut, leaving Naruto stunned and unable to do anything but stare helplessly as she sobbed. He'd never had to help anyone, comfort anyone, support anyone, so he had no idea what to do at all. No one had taught him the art of the hug, the murmur of sweet whispers, the soothing words a mother gave to her child in their time of need. Instead he was left completely caught off guard, with thoughts buzzing around his head at what he'd done, what he could've said. Was it his pride? Was it his arrogant prattling? Or was it...?
"S-Sakura?" he stuttered, tentatively reaching out one hand. "What...Are you okay? I didn't...I don't..."
But there was nothing he could do, nothing he could say. Just stood there, paralyzed, dumb and deaf and useless except to wait for her to do something, to make him feel less useless and less worthless.
Not seeing anything through the blur of tears, Sakura instinctively followed a sound, the sound of someone's voice. It was unclear, but there nonetheless. Jumping upward she wrapped her arms around Naruto's body, crying onto his chest, staining it with tears. She wasn't sure what was going on anymore, where she was, who she was with, it was all a blur. She was confused and helpless mixed with other feelings that she couldn't quite put her finger on, but where there. Eventually the tears stopped flowing, but her eyes remained clamped shut, trying to squeeze out whatever was leftover. Sniffling a bit, she pushed away from the blond, trying to regain her senses, remembering where she was and what she was doing there.
"Oh god...I'm so, sorry..." She wiped her face a bit more, sniffling. "I...I just don't know what came over me. I..." she trailed off.
The weight of her body and her sorrow nearly through him back, but he managed to brace himself just in time to hold up. As the tears soaked against his skin, he felt the sudden urge to hold her, to comfort her, but he resisted, not sure if she'd push away. And before he could even begin to formulate a course of action, she was pulling away from him, wiping at her eyes, apology stumbling out of her mouth. He blinked slowly, trying desperately to make sure what came out of his mouth next wasn't utterly idiotic, to try and salvage some of the good nature between them, to try and salvage his friendship, one of the first he'd ever had.
"It's...Don't!" he stammered. "Don't...be sorry! It's...I...why were you...?" But the words just wouldn't come, and he was left with a babbling mess, hoping she could fill in the blanks of his own ignorance.
Sakura snorted, partially sniveling, partly trying to formulate an answer. And as the sound escaped her nose, Sakura immediately changed her course of action from crying her eyes out to giggling at her own embarrassment. "Uhm...sorry." Trying to think of something to clear up the depressing air that formulated between the two, she wiped the remainder of her tears and took a step back to bow in gratitude, "Thank you, Naruto. I really don't know what happened. I can't really remember what came over me." It was as if some inner consciousness existed in her mind that loved to tease and pound her into whatever it wanted. Most times it urged her to do things she never dreamed of doing, and it frightened her. However, that consciousness was a very rare occurrence, and it confused her why all those emotions would just suddenly surge now?
Looking into the blond's bright, blue eyes, she smiled, "I'm fine. Don't worry about me. It certainly wasn't you." She waved her hands, trying to emphasize that she meant the truth.
Just as suddenly as the storm of tears had struck, it looked like they were gone, and Naruto breathed an inner sigh of relief for that. Whether or not he'd ever know the cause, he didn't know, and honestly doubted it. But at this point, he didn't entirely care too much, just grateful that the comfortable air could arise between them again. As she bowed, he waved it off quickly, embarassed by the formal display. "Hey, there's no need for that! I'm just a street punk, what're you bowin' to me for? An' it's fine, don't worry about it. Not your fault if you've gotta have a cry, you know? So don't thank me, really."
He smiled back as she did, eyes narrowing to fox-like slits, a habit of his. "That's good to hear! I don't like seein' people I care about hurt, yeah?" Not that there's many of those, he thought but didn't say. "And if you're sure it wasn't me, well, that's good, I guess," he added, laughing a little. "So, uh, you...still up for that meal?"
"Sure!" Sakura smiled, grabbing a hold of his arm once again. Glancing at the sky once more, she noticed the sun dropped a bit from when she last looked up. "Although, we'd better hurry. I'd like to be home before dark." Tugging him forward, her face still a little red and her eyes slightly puffy from the cry, Sakura moved on, wondering what the hell was wrong with her. Maybe it's something I should really look into...
"Better hurry, huh?" he chuckled, mischievous spark lighting in his eyes as he turned to grin at her. There was, he supposed, a reason Iruka told him he sometimes looked unholy. "Well, if you say so!" He didn't give her a chance to protest as he started running down the street again, pulling her along behind him as his feet slapped against the cobblestone road. As he started veering towards an alleyway off the main street, he called back, "Hey! Mind a few shortcuts along the way?"
"Short cuts?" She raised her eyebrow, playfully smirking, "Hopefully not into another fountain?" Sakura giggled, but stopped when she realized he just may do it. "Fine, fine. Shortcut away, Your Highness." she said sweetly, hoping the shortcuts wouldn't get them lost. Then again, he said he did know the streets. He better. She gave him a slightly smug look, hoping he wouldn't land them into a dead end or off a cliff.
He scoffed, feigning offense at the very suggestion. "Worry not, my noble lady! I shall do my best to steer you clear of the dangerous waters!" Then he grinned playfully again and tugged her on faster, leaning her down another winding side street that cut through the buildings. "You're damn right I'm the King!" he whooped, jerking her down another alley only to come face to face with a wall. While he himself could easily scale it, he looked doubtfully back at her over his shoulder. "Uh, this might be a problem..."
Sakura raised her eyebrow and busted out laughing, "I knew it!" Laughing so hard, her eyes began to tear up once again, and eventually she had a moment where she couldn't breathe, "Can't...breathe...haha. You're killing me, Naruto." Eventually calming down, she glanced up at the wall and nodded, "Can't we just climb it? It doesn't look that high. I've climbed trees way higher than this thing." She stood proud, grateful she could show off her one physical talent to someone who could appreciate it. Jumping on a crate that was conveniently placed against it, she jumped up, barely catching a grip on the edge and with a slight push from her right foot against the vertical, rough surface, she threw herself on top of the wall effortlessly.
Winking back at Naruto, she stuck her tongue out, "See?" She giggled again.
Naruto gaped slackly up at her, blinking slowly before shaking his head to get off the shock. "That...was hot awesome," he said, still sounding awed. Then, finally getting over the surprise at her busting out such sudden athletic prowess, he launched himself at the builing opposite Sakura, aiming for the heighest spot he could get and digging in his nails and toes. As soon as he felt solid contact, he pushed himself off again, twisting in the air so he could grab onto the wall and jerking himself up swiftly. He paused to throw a grin to Sakura, then dropped down in a crouch on the other side. As he stood up, he brushed himself off, then turned to flash Sakura a thumbs up.
"So, what're you waiting for?" he called up. "Or do you need me to catch you?"
Sakura's eyes widened at his display of physical abilities, she gawked, What the hell just happened? Shaking the daze from her head she quickly switched her expression to an exaggerated 'damsel in distress' look. "Oh, I think I feel faint..." she opened one of her eyes as the back of her left hand rested against her forehead, ensuring Naruto would actually catch her. It wouldn't be pleasant to fall on the stones below. "Oh woe is me...I think I just may fall from this light-headedness."
Tilting a bit towards the side Naruto stood on, Sakura, with her great acting skills, fell from the wall, in enough of a position to try and land on Naruto had he not reacted quickly enough.
Well, he certainly hadn't been counting on that! Things started to move in slow motion as he watched her tilt, lean, sway, and eventually fall free from the wall's surface. "H-Hey! Watch out!" But it was far too late, and he didn't even notice she was acting, too busy worrying if he could stop her fall, keep her from dashing her skull against the hard cobblestone ground. His arms flew out wide, and he took a step forward, two, three, and then she was in his arms, sudden and heavy and he grunted in exertion as the push of momentum forced his arms down, sending tremors into his bones. It took all his strength, but he didn't fall, and the minute the dull look of surprise faded from his features, his characteristic cocky smirk bloomed again.
"Looks like you're pretty lucky I was here!" he gloated goodnaturedly. "Else you might'a been squashed just now. You should be more careful, missy!"
Sakura giggled, wiggling her legs indicating she wanted down. "Good catch, Your Highness. And I'll be sure to be more careful next time." The pink-haired girl winked, thankful that he had fast reflexes. Then again, she wouldn't have chanced that act had she not seen the boy scale the wall like she had before. I suppose that just makes me crazy...
He set her down gently as she wiggled, smirking and crossing his arms haughtily. "What, you thought I mighta let you drop? Pssh, come on! I'm King of the Streets for a reason!" He knew he was bragging more than was proper but, hell, he was feeling pretty damn awesome after making that catch, and it wasn't like she was someone he felt like he had to impress with politeness. Or, at least, he hoped she wasn't. And his wacky bragging did seem to make her laugh...
"Now, you gonna come on and get the rest of the way to the Blue Butterfly, or do I have to carry you again?"
"Are you offering?" Sakura winked, walking rather awkwardly with her arms behind her back, twisting with every step. "How far is this place anyway? Everything is so spread out here." Striding a few more steps, Sakura looked around, hoping to see something, anything more than old, broken-down homes and shops and streets lined with beggars. There are so many...
"Well, uh..." he started, stopping to scratch the back of his head. "I...guess..."
But she was already walking ahead, so he followed after her, shading his eyes from the sun as he stared down the streets. "It's not too far now, thanks to my brilliant short cuts."
Sakura laughed, "Brilliant, eh? For a moment I doubted you, but thankfully that wall was low enough to jump. Unless..." She turned to face the blond, "You didn't think I could make it, did you?" The girl grinned, it wasn't everyday that a noble would be found climbing trees, although she wouldn't mention that the purpose of climbing the damn plant was to try and learn how to fly...
Thrown slightly by how easily she had seen through him [or was it just a lucky guess? Experience?] Naruto flushed lightly and looked away. "Well, uh, I guess...I had my doubts, but..." he trailed off. Then he coughed, and faced her again. "But, uh, I knew you could do it, really! You're a tough girl like that, I can see, not like the usual prissy little nobles!" The minute he said it, he wondered if that would really be a compliment. Most girls weren't like him, he guessed, so he wasn't quite sure what they'd want to hear.
Sakura frowned for a moment, but the dip in her lips turned upward once again into a smirk. "I see...so that's how you see us." She giggled, "Then again, I suppose we stereotype as well." She stepped forward, focusing her eyes on the road ahead. "And most of it's right." Sakura crossed her arms, looking up at the sky, "Although, I don't know if modest would be the word to describe some people." The girl laughed, "So, I guess we're both exceptions to the stereotypes, right?"
He flushed again, partly shamed and partly angry. "H-Hey! I'm...modest! And, well, most of those nobles do have a stick jammed way to far up their arse!" He huffed and crossed his arms, unswayed by her giggling and her smile...mostly. "But, uh...yeah, there are exceptions. Like you, you're way nicer than just about anybody from the noble class I've ever met." He turned and smiled weakly, to show good humor. "And I'm way more awesome than I say I am, just to let you know. So, we gonna go get some grub, or what? All this talkin's making me starved."
"Uh huh..." Rolling her eyes, Sakura grabbed a hold of Naruto's arm once more. Never before had she struck up a conversation about such tiny things, so easily. It lightened Sakura's heart and she wished that this feeling would last forever. They continued their walk for Post Blue.
"Hey, what's that 'uh huh' stuff for?" he grumbled, shooting her a sulky look. But for all his show, he was geniunely happy for one of the first times in weeks, and had her to thank for it. Walking along, talking about nothings...it was wonderful. And as he saw the Blue Butterfly looming over the horizon, his face split into a genuine, earnest smile. "There it is! Look, Sakura, we finally made it!"
"Eh?" Seeing the building, Sakura smiled, "Well, finally, Naruto. I mean, I thought we were using a shortcut." The girl winked, unlinking her arm from the boy. Without a moments hesitation, Sakura ran for the building, her pink hair flowing behind her. "Last one there's an ogre!" she shouted at him, laughing.
"Hey, now, I cut at least ten minutes off that journey!" he said indignantly to open air. Sakura has already taken off, and it took him a moment to distinguish her words. As soon as he did, his eyes flashed and he let out a whoop. "Oh, it's on, ogre-woman!" He took off in a flash, at full sprint, and memories of racing Iruka to the same spot flashed through his mind. He'd never lost them, and he certainly didn't intend to now!
Sakura ran, the pounding of her feet hitting the ground jammed her joints, but she didn't pay any attention to that. She was completely fixed on the door, not intending to lose. Knowing he was the competitive type, she ran with all her might, certain that if she hadn't had that momentary head start she would be way behind him by now. "Almost..there!" She reached for the knob.
And Naruto was right behind her, never slacking in his pace. She had a head start though, and he was still tired from all the running around, so it was harder than it should have been to catch up. She almost had her hand on the knob, so he stretched out his hand as far as it would go, launching himself forward at the same time. Something in his brain told him that was a bad idea, but victory was on the line!
His hand touched the knob at almost the same instant hers did. He would've whooped for joy, if he hadn't gone crashing into the door, knocking it open and thudding hard against the floor of the Blue Butterfly. A classic Naruto entrance.
Sakura stared at the sprawled mess on the floor that was Naruto. She bursted out in laughter, "Oh. My. Goodness. Naruto, are you okay?" she asked between half snorts. Squatting down she offered her hand to the poor boy, the smile never leaving her face. "I say that it was a tie...but...considering you went through all this, let's just say you won, alright?"
He grinned weakly as he lowered his head, whimpering and groaning as he slowly peeled himself up off the floorboards. There'd probably be a bump tomorrow, and more than a few bruises, but it was definitely worth it. "It works...for me," he said slowly, groaning again at how much talking hurt his aching ribs. He took her hand, pulling himself up tenderly until he was standing again. "So, uh, wanna...get a table?"
Nodding, Sakura stepped to a wooden table and took a seat on the bench. "So..uhm...what do they serve here, Naruto?" She rested her elbows on the table, something her mother always scolded her for, saying it wasn't lady-like and that she needed to learn to mind her manners at the table. Who cares?
Patting the pocket in her right pant leg, Sakura double-checked that her wallet was still in place. Lee had warned her about carrying a thick purse and decided to carry only what she needed and to watch her budget in case she needed something else. Seeing that this place was the slummish areas, she certainly hoped that food didn't cost much.
"Well, uh, they serve a lot, I guess," he said, blinking slowly. He shrugged lazily, picking up his menu to scan down the page. As if he even needed to; he'd memorized the catalogue of food available at the Blue Butterfly long ago. This was just a formality, really. "I dunno, just check the menu, see what tickles your fancy."
"And, uh, I can probably pay. If you want," he added, only because it seemed like the polite thing to say. He'd never been able to treat someone before, but his windfall on New Year's was certainly nice...
"Uhm...I'll get whatever you get. And...uhm...I can pay for myself!" Sakura certainly hoped the boy wouldn't take any offense and think that she meant it in a 'because I have money and you don't' sort of way. It was more of the, 'We just met, and even though it feels like we've known each other forever, I don't feel comfortable if someone else paid for me' way.
"Well, uh, if you're sure," he said, showing a smile, even though he felt a bit bad about her not letting him pay. He always thought guys were supposed to pay for women when they ate, but then, he wasn't a noble, so he wouldn't know so much.
They walked out of the Inn a long while later, wallets lighter but stomachs considerably heavier. He was honestly surprised by how much she'd put away, impressed even. But as he looked to the sun, starting to hang low in the sky with dark red streaking the blue, he knew their journey together would have to soon come to a close. "So, uh, should I...walk you home? Or would that be too troublesome, to be seen with a guy like me?" he laughed, meaning it as light hearted, but he knew that her being seen around someone from the slums would bring nothing but trouble, to her at least.
"Uhm...actually..." Sakura stuttered, trying not to make it sound like she didn't want him to walk her home because of appearance value, but mostly because she had her own secrets to keep. "I think I can handle myself." she added all too quickly, and scolded herself for sounding like she was talking to a stranger on the street. "But, I do hope to see you again..." Sakura stopped, walking in front of Naruto to look him in the face. "Do you know when we can meet again? I'm sure I can make time whenever." She hoped it would be soon, she never had so much fun in her life.
"O-oh, okay," Naruto mumbled, looking away. He knew, deep down, that she would have at least made him wait on the outside of the richer buildings, but that didn't mean he hadn't hoped. It was his stupid pride's fault, but it still stung a little. But then he brightened up again almost instantly, both thanks to her question and his own, inexhaustable enthusiasm. "Well, I'm pretty much out here all the time, so I'm sure you'll see me around again. An', hey, just for you, I'll meet you at that fountain again at...noon. Any day. You can count on Uzumaki Naruto!"
Sakura smiled, glad the boy didn't take too much offense at wanting to go home herself. "Alright. I'll remember that, Naruto." She would make a trip to that fountain everyday if she could, but she would do her best. Nodding, the pink-haired girl turned around, waving. "I'll see you around, Naruto."
"Yeah, I'll see you," he said, waving back and smile slowly fading. He'd known the end would have to come, but couldn't exactly be prepared for it. So slowly, and with a bit more gloom than he'd had all day hanging over him, he turned and started the long, now lonely path back to the orphanage.
The pink-haired girl turned, frowning to see her new friend trudging along the path so sadly. Lightly, she ran to the blond, jumping on his back one last time for the night, "Good night, Naruto!" Springing off, she turned and bolted back home, trying to race the sunset so she wouldn't be home too late. She laughed when she turned the corner, hoping she would see the boy again.
Setting :: The slums on the way to the Blue Butterfly
Rating :: PG-13; just for a few little moments, but most of it is good, clean (sometimes wet) fun.
Warnings :: Looooong and obnoxiously cute XD
Summary :: Sakura and Naruto meet for the first time...creating their first friendship.
[this is the second part to Naruto and Sakura's RP, please read the first post before continuing]
When she disregarded the clothes, he inwardly breathed a sigh of relief and smiled lopsidedly at her. There was one obstacle out of his path. "That's good to hear." The next question threw him for a bit of a loop, however, since he'd never been asked anything like it before. "Where...I sleep? Uh, just...upstairs, usually, in whatever rooms are free. Don't really have much stuff, so don't really have a single room to keep. An' I don't always stay at the Orphanage, either." He was babbling again, he could feel it, but damn, it was so rare anyone showed any interest in his life it was hard to stop himself. "W...Why?"
"Wait...you don't sleep in the same bed every night?" It was a concept that Sakura never heard of before, then again, with being an only child in a rich household she was entitled to a personal bedroom. She giggled at the boy's stuttering, figuring he wasn't used to a girl asking him so many questions before. "I was just wondering, that's all. Just a bit...curious. Then again, curiosity killed the cat, right?" Sakura winked, "Well, are we ready to head out now? I don't want to stay out too late. My mother may grow worried and send out a search party." Grabbing Naruto by the hand she led him to the door, half-tugging him along the way. "You caught your breath already, right? Let's go!"
"Not usually..." he began, trying to ignore the odd mannerisms the girl was starting to display. He certainly didn't have much grounds for comparison in behaviour, and was more than a little out of his element, as was so often the case when people weren't either trying to beat him or talk down to him. "Just seems kinda boring that way, you know?"
But suddenly she was grabbing him, jerking him towards the door. He stumbled a bit before catching his footing again, walking behind her quickly and resisting the urge to pull ahead again. He could do her the favor of leading this time, he decided. "Well, if you're ready to go, let's book it! After all this runnin' around, I could use a big plate of noodles or something." His mouth was almost watering at the very idea of the Blue Butterfly's cooking, and as he felt the cold weight of coin in his pocket, he decided he could splurge a bit.
"Alright, slowpoke. I have no idea where this place is, so you lead the way!" She playfully pushed him out the door, leaning forward a bit to add a bit of her body weight for added strength. Smiling when they were out the door, she glanced up at the sky to make sure she still had enough time. Noticing the sun was still way up in the sky, she nodded, glad that she could stay out a while longer. "So, which way, Mister Uzumaki?" Giggling, she slipped her arm around his right, glancing left and right.
Throwing his head back and pushing his shoulders back, Naruto shot out his hand dramatically with finger pointing down the path to their destination. "There, to the North!" he yelled in his best manly voice, not even knowing if that was north, and hoping she wouldn't correct him if it wasn't. Half-marching and half-strutting, he started walking down the street again. "Follow me, Madame Haruno," he added, trying to pull her along again, but no too hard this time.
Giggling at the boy's display, she walked with him, looking at the buildings and rundown homes of the city. He's lived like this all his life... She looked up at the blond who was strutting along in his own world. I wonder how he can remain so happy in a world like this? Sakura was a girl who knew how to put on a fake smile whenever she was sad, but her eyes would always give way to her true emotions. Certainly Naruto would give off the same expression in his, but she saw nothing. No pain. No anguish. It was as if the boy himself was a symbol for hope, a jewel found in the deepest and darkest of caves that shone even in pitch black shadow.
Unconsciously gripping her hand around his arm more firmly, she glanced down at the stones that made the street. They appeared slippery and worn, a few pieces missing in some places, huge chunks missing in others. Perhaps there was just too much that needed to be done to Konoha. Was it still capable of being fixed? Or was the damage beyond repair?
She shook her head, trying to think of happier thoughts. Sakura met someone that she could talk to as if she knew him her entire life. It made her so happy yet, as she looked up at the sky, watching the sun slip slightly past the noon mark, she knew this day would end. She never felt so lonely in her life. If it wasn't for the warm presence at her side, she could have sworn that she was indeed alone in this world. Everything and everyone just a passing memory. Would she ever see him again after today? Sakura frowned at the thought, hoping he wouldn't just up and disappear like many people she held conversation with on the street. This feeling was different, a feeling she didn't want to give up. She had to ask, "Naruto...after today, would you forget me?"
He blinked and looked over at her curiously, tilting his head to the side. Forget her? The thought had never even passed through his head. He rarely forgot anyone he'd met, least of all ones who gave him as much acknowledgement as she had. But the question was so stunning, so unexpected, that he just fell in step with her for a moment, thoughts drifting through his head and trying to find shape. Finally, he managed to form the words. "Of course I'm not gonna forget you! How could I forget a girl with hair like yours, huh?" he jibed, goofy grin creeping across his features. "Forgetting you would be like forgetting...a flying dog!"
And he wouldn't forget the laughter, still ringing fresh and clear in his hears, bells tolling. Wouldn't forget the piggy-back ride roaring down main-street like an out-of-control cart, the water fight leaving rainbows dancing in his eyes, the smell of sweat and summer and sun. And the smile, a genuine smile, the kind that he so rarely had directed at him. No day like today would ever fade from his memory. No one so close to what he thought a friend might be could even be left behind.
"Why, you gonna forget about me? 'Cuz maybe I should dunk you in the fountain again, just to make sure you don't! Wouldn't be wise of you to forget the great King of the Streets, Naruto Uzumaki!"
Smiling, Sakura laughed, "Thank you, Naruto. You don't know how much that means to me..." Her green eyes lit up, "Although, I'm pretty sure that I would dunk you." She laughed again, her smile returning to her face. "And what are you saying, comparing me to a flying dog, huh?" Her eyes squeeze shut as she laughed even more. "Oh gosh, Naruto. A girl could die of laughter around you. Not saying you look funny or anything, but if I am like a flying dog, then what would that make you?"
He grinned broadly, savoring the sound of her laughter as it rang out, and snorted when she said she'd be the one dunking him. Yeah, right. When she posed the net question, though, he tapped his chin slowly, eyes screwed up in mock-concentration. "Well, I guess if you're a flying dog...I must be some kinda...talking flying dog! Yeah, something cool like that! With, uh, with fire breath! Yeah, that's right, fire breath! So don't you think you could be the incredible Naru-dog, no siree! It's, y'know, just about invincible." For some reason, he just couldn't seem to stop himself talking, no matter how ridiculous it all sounded. And, he supposed, that was what made it so fun.
Waving her hands in a playful, mocking manner Sakura sarcastically commented, "Ooooh! Fire breath! What am I ever going to do." She giggled, Naruto could be awfully cute. Wait, what? She barely knew him, and already thought of him as if she knew the boy all her life. Oh well, but seriously, a fire-spewing flying dog? She giggled again, the image of Naruto flying around with paws and a tail, flames shooting from his mouth as he screamed, 'Hey, Sakura! I told you so!'
Of all the things Naruto could have replied with, it had to be that. This boy can never get boring. "Well, why don't I get any cool powers? Like...being able to break mountains with my fist! Or if that's too much, then at least let me smash down a few trees or something." She laughed again, "You're a fun guy, Naruto. Don't ever change."
"Pssh, you're just some court girl, why would you have super powers? It's not like you're an amazing King like me, y'know. Besides, you can fly! Isn't that great by itself?" Flying away from this dying little town had been a dream of his for a long time, something to tantalize his subconscious in the long, lonely nights. He could care less about fire breath, or smashing mountains, or anything, so long as he could change the destiny the world kept trying to force upon him.
"And why would someone like me wanna change, huh?" he scoffed. "I think I'm pretty fantastic just the way I am! Nah, I'm never, ever gonna change, 'specially not if I have to change into someone like that stuffy Iruka, or all those pissy merchants." Truthfully, he wouldn't mind being someone like Iruka, kind and respected and looked up to, but his pride was all he really had in life. And changing might mean sacrificing that, or losing what made him special. No, change was certainly not on his menu.
Sakura stopped, jerking a bit since she was still linked to Naruto. She looked away quickly, trying to hide her face from him. Tears fought against the young woman's face as so many things sprung at her from all directions in her mind. Just some court girl. Weak. There is nothing you can do to save this world. No matter how hard. You. Try. "Shut up!" Sakura screamed at the top of her lungs, driving the thoughts away from her mind. Tears began pouring down her cheeks as she released Naruto's arm, falling to the ground clutching her face in utter helplessness. "Just...shut up." She continued her sobbing, her cheeks turning slightly red as she began to fight the flow of tears with the back of her hands. Each movement was in vain, however, as more tears just continued to pour down.
It had been a long time since she cried. It seemed that with all those years of holding back her tears from the Akatsuki and the rest of the court, those tears finally caught up with her, shoving against her in giant waves, rendering her helpless. She sniffled, trying to regain control of her emotions, wiping more and more until her eyes grew sore.
The sudden cry was like a sucker-punch to the gut, leaving Naruto stunned and unable to do anything but stare helplessly as she sobbed. He'd never had to help anyone, comfort anyone, support anyone, so he had no idea what to do at all. No one had taught him the art of the hug, the murmur of sweet whispers, the soothing words a mother gave to her child in their time of need. Instead he was left completely caught off guard, with thoughts buzzing around his head at what he'd done, what he could've said. Was it his pride? Was it his arrogant prattling? Or was it...?
"S-Sakura?" he stuttered, tentatively reaching out one hand. "What...Are you okay? I didn't...I don't..."
But there was nothing he could do, nothing he could say. Just stood there, paralyzed, dumb and deaf and useless except to wait for her to do something, to make him feel less useless and less worthless.
Not seeing anything through the blur of tears, Sakura instinctively followed a sound, the sound of someone's voice. It was unclear, but there nonetheless. Jumping upward she wrapped her arms around Naruto's body, crying onto his chest, staining it with tears. She wasn't sure what was going on anymore, where she was, who she was with, it was all a blur. She was confused and helpless mixed with other feelings that she couldn't quite put her finger on, but where there. Eventually the tears stopped flowing, but her eyes remained clamped shut, trying to squeeze out whatever was leftover. Sniffling a bit, she pushed away from the blond, trying to regain her senses, remembering where she was and what she was doing there.
"Oh god...I'm so, sorry..." She wiped her face a bit more, sniffling. "I...I just don't know what came over me. I..." she trailed off.
The weight of her body and her sorrow nearly through him back, but he managed to brace himself just in time to hold up. As the tears soaked against his skin, he felt the sudden urge to hold her, to comfort her, but he resisted, not sure if she'd push away. And before he could even begin to formulate a course of action, she was pulling away from him, wiping at her eyes, apology stumbling out of her mouth. He blinked slowly, trying desperately to make sure what came out of his mouth next wasn't utterly idiotic, to try and salvage some of the good nature between them, to try and salvage his friendship, one of the first he'd ever had.
"It's...Don't!" he stammered. "Don't...be sorry! It's...I...why were you...?" But the words just wouldn't come, and he was left with a babbling mess, hoping she could fill in the blanks of his own ignorance.
Sakura snorted, partially sniveling, partly trying to formulate an answer. And as the sound escaped her nose, Sakura immediately changed her course of action from crying her eyes out to giggling at her own embarrassment. "Uhm...sorry." Trying to think of something to clear up the depressing air that formulated between the two, she wiped the remainder of her tears and took a step back to bow in gratitude, "Thank you, Naruto. I really don't know what happened. I can't really remember what came over me." It was as if some inner consciousness existed in her mind that loved to tease and pound her into whatever it wanted. Most times it urged her to do things she never dreamed of doing, and it frightened her. However, that consciousness was a very rare occurrence, and it confused her why all those emotions would just suddenly surge now?
Looking into the blond's bright, blue eyes, she smiled, "I'm fine. Don't worry about me. It certainly wasn't you." She waved her hands, trying to emphasize that she meant the truth.
Just as suddenly as the storm of tears had struck, it looked like they were gone, and Naruto breathed an inner sigh of relief for that. Whether or not he'd ever know the cause, he didn't know, and honestly doubted it. But at this point, he didn't entirely care too much, just grateful that the comfortable air could arise between them again. As she bowed, he waved it off quickly, embarassed by the formal display. "Hey, there's no need for that! I'm just a street punk, what're you bowin' to me for? An' it's fine, don't worry about it. Not your fault if you've gotta have a cry, you know? So don't thank me, really."
He smiled back as she did, eyes narrowing to fox-like slits, a habit of his. "That's good to hear! I don't like seein' people I care about hurt, yeah?" Not that there's many of those, he thought but didn't say. "And if you're sure it wasn't me, well, that's good, I guess," he added, laughing a little. "So, uh, you...still up for that meal?"
"Sure!" Sakura smiled, grabbing a hold of his arm once again. Glancing at the sky once more, she noticed the sun dropped a bit from when she last looked up. "Although, we'd better hurry. I'd like to be home before dark." Tugging him forward, her face still a little red and her eyes slightly puffy from the cry, Sakura moved on, wondering what the hell was wrong with her. Maybe it's something I should really look into...
"Better hurry, huh?" he chuckled, mischievous spark lighting in his eyes as he turned to grin at her. There was, he supposed, a reason Iruka told him he sometimes looked unholy. "Well, if you say so!" He didn't give her a chance to protest as he started running down the street again, pulling her along behind him as his feet slapped against the cobblestone road. As he started veering towards an alleyway off the main street, he called back, "Hey! Mind a few shortcuts along the way?"
"Short cuts?" She raised her eyebrow, playfully smirking, "Hopefully not into another fountain?" Sakura giggled, but stopped when she realized he just may do it. "Fine, fine. Shortcut away, Your Highness." she said sweetly, hoping the shortcuts wouldn't get them lost. Then again, he said he did know the streets. He better. She gave him a slightly smug look, hoping he wouldn't land them into a dead end or off a cliff.
He scoffed, feigning offense at the very suggestion. "Worry not, my noble lady! I shall do my best to steer you clear of the dangerous waters!" Then he grinned playfully again and tugged her on faster, leaning her down another winding side street that cut through the buildings. "You're damn right I'm the King!" he whooped, jerking her down another alley only to come face to face with a wall. While he himself could easily scale it, he looked doubtfully back at her over his shoulder. "Uh, this might be a problem..."
Sakura raised her eyebrow and busted out laughing, "I knew it!" Laughing so hard, her eyes began to tear up once again, and eventually she had a moment where she couldn't breathe, "Can't...breathe...haha. You're killing me, Naruto." Eventually calming down, she glanced up at the wall and nodded, "Can't we just climb it? It doesn't look that high. I've climbed trees way higher than this thing." She stood proud, grateful she could show off her one physical talent to someone who could appreciate it. Jumping on a crate that was conveniently placed against it, she jumped up, barely catching a grip on the edge and with a slight push from her right foot against the vertical, rough surface, she threw herself on top of the wall effortlessly.
Winking back at Naruto, she stuck her tongue out, "See?" She giggled again.
Naruto gaped slackly up at her, blinking slowly before shaking his head to get off the shock. "That...was hot awesome," he said, still sounding awed. Then, finally getting over the surprise at her busting out such sudden athletic prowess, he launched himself at the builing opposite Sakura, aiming for the heighest spot he could get and digging in his nails and toes. As soon as he felt solid contact, he pushed himself off again, twisting in the air so he could grab onto the wall and jerking himself up swiftly. He paused to throw a grin to Sakura, then dropped down in a crouch on the other side. As he stood up, he brushed himself off, then turned to flash Sakura a thumbs up.
"So, what're you waiting for?" he called up. "Or do you need me to catch you?"
Sakura's eyes widened at his display of physical abilities, she gawked, What the hell just happened? Shaking the daze from her head she quickly switched her expression to an exaggerated 'damsel in distress' look. "Oh, I think I feel faint..." she opened one of her eyes as the back of her left hand rested against her forehead, ensuring Naruto would actually catch her. It wouldn't be pleasant to fall on the stones below. "Oh woe is me...I think I just may fall from this light-headedness."
Tilting a bit towards the side Naruto stood on, Sakura, with her great acting skills, fell from the wall, in enough of a position to try and land on Naruto had he not reacted quickly enough.
Well, he certainly hadn't been counting on that! Things started to move in slow motion as he watched her tilt, lean, sway, and eventually fall free from the wall's surface. "H-Hey! Watch out!" But it was far too late, and he didn't even notice she was acting, too busy worrying if he could stop her fall, keep her from dashing her skull against the hard cobblestone ground. His arms flew out wide, and he took a step forward, two, three, and then she was in his arms, sudden and heavy and he grunted in exertion as the push of momentum forced his arms down, sending tremors into his bones. It took all his strength, but he didn't fall, and the minute the dull look of surprise faded from his features, his characteristic cocky smirk bloomed again.
"Looks like you're pretty lucky I was here!" he gloated goodnaturedly. "Else you might'a been squashed just now. You should be more careful, missy!"
Sakura giggled, wiggling her legs indicating she wanted down. "Good catch, Your Highness. And I'll be sure to be more careful next time." The pink-haired girl winked, thankful that he had fast reflexes. Then again, she wouldn't have chanced that act had she not seen the boy scale the wall like she had before. I suppose that just makes me crazy...
He set her down gently as she wiggled, smirking and crossing his arms haughtily. "What, you thought I mighta let you drop? Pssh, come on! I'm King of the Streets for a reason!" He knew he was bragging more than was proper but, hell, he was feeling pretty damn awesome after making that catch, and it wasn't like she was someone he felt like he had to impress with politeness. Or, at least, he hoped she wasn't. And his wacky bragging did seem to make her laugh...
"Now, you gonna come on and get the rest of the way to the Blue Butterfly, or do I have to carry you again?"
"Are you offering?" Sakura winked, walking rather awkwardly with her arms behind her back, twisting with every step. "How far is this place anyway? Everything is so spread out here." Striding a few more steps, Sakura looked around, hoping to see something, anything more than old, broken-down homes and shops and streets lined with beggars. There are so many...
"Well, uh..." he started, stopping to scratch the back of his head. "I...guess..."
But she was already walking ahead, so he followed after her, shading his eyes from the sun as he stared down the streets. "It's not too far now, thanks to my brilliant short cuts."
Sakura laughed, "Brilliant, eh? For a moment I doubted you, but thankfully that wall was low enough to jump. Unless..." She turned to face the blond, "You didn't think I could make it, did you?" The girl grinned, it wasn't everyday that a noble would be found climbing trees, although she wouldn't mention that the purpose of climbing the damn plant was to try and learn how to fly...
Thrown slightly by how easily she had seen through him [or was it just a lucky guess? Experience?] Naruto flushed lightly and looked away. "Well, uh, I guess...I had my doubts, but..." he trailed off. Then he coughed, and faced her again. "But, uh, I knew you could do it, really! You're a tough girl like that, I can see, not like the usual prissy little nobles!" The minute he said it, he wondered if that would really be a compliment. Most girls weren't like him, he guessed, so he wasn't quite sure what they'd want to hear.
Sakura frowned for a moment, but the dip in her lips turned upward once again into a smirk. "I see...so that's how you see us." She giggled, "Then again, I suppose we stereotype as well." She stepped forward, focusing her eyes on the road ahead. "And most of it's right." Sakura crossed her arms, looking up at the sky, "Although, I don't know if modest would be the word to describe some people." The girl laughed, "So, I guess we're both exceptions to the stereotypes, right?"
He flushed again, partly shamed and partly angry. "H-Hey! I'm...modest! And, well, most of those nobles do have a stick jammed way to far up their arse!" He huffed and crossed his arms, unswayed by her giggling and her smile...mostly. "But, uh...yeah, there are exceptions. Like you, you're way nicer than just about anybody from the noble class I've ever met." He turned and smiled weakly, to show good humor. "And I'm way more awesome than I say I am, just to let you know. So, we gonna go get some grub, or what? All this talkin's making me starved."
"Uh huh..." Rolling her eyes, Sakura grabbed a hold of Naruto's arm once more. Never before had she struck up a conversation about such tiny things, so easily. It lightened Sakura's heart and she wished that this feeling would last forever. They continued their walk for Post Blue.
"Hey, what's that 'uh huh' stuff for?" he grumbled, shooting her a sulky look. But for all his show, he was geniunely happy for one of the first times in weeks, and had her to thank for it. Walking along, talking about nothings...it was wonderful. And as he saw the Blue Butterfly looming over the horizon, his face split into a genuine, earnest smile. "There it is! Look, Sakura, we finally made it!"
"Eh?" Seeing the building, Sakura smiled, "Well, finally, Naruto. I mean, I thought we were using a shortcut." The girl winked, unlinking her arm from the boy. Without a moments hesitation, Sakura ran for the building, her pink hair flowing behind her. "Last one there's an ogre!" she shouted at him, laughing.
"Hey, now, I cut at least ten minutes off that journey!" he said indignantly to open air. Sakura has already taken off, and it took him a moment to distinguish her words. As soon as he did, his eyes flashed and he let out a whoop. "Oh, it's on, ogre-woman!" He took off in a flash, at full sprint, and memories of racing Iruka to the same spot flashed through his mind. He'd never lost them, and he certainly didn't intend to now!
Sakura ran, the pounding of her feet hitting the ground jammed her joints, but she didn't pay any attention to that. She was completely fixed on the door, not intending to lose. Knowing he was the competitive type, she ran with all her might, certain that if she hadn't had that momentary head start she would be way behind him by now. "Almost..there!" She reached for the knob.
And Naruto was right behind her, never slacking in his pace. She had a head start though, and he was still tired from all the running around, so it was harder than it should have been to catch up. She almost had her hand on the knob, so he stretched out his hand as far as it would go, launching himself forward at the same time. Something in his brain told him that was a bad idea, but victory was on the line!
His hand touched the knob at almost the same instant hers did. He would've whooped for joy, if he hadn't gone crashing into the door, knocking it open and thudding hard against the floor of the Blue Butterfly. A classic Naruto entrance.
Sakura stared at the sprawled mess on the floor that was Naruto. She bursted out in laughter, "Oh. My. Goodness. Naruto, are you okay?" she asked between half snorts. Squatting down she offered her hand to the poor boy, the smile never leaving her face. "I say that it was a tie...but...considering you went through all this, let's just say you won, alright?"
He grinned weakly as he lowered his head, whimpering and groaning as he slowly peeled himself up off the floorboards. There'd probably be a bump tomorrow, and more than a few bruises, but it was definitely worth it. "It works...for me," he said slowly, groaning again at how much talking hurt his aching ribs. He took her hand, pulling himself up tenderly until he was standing again. "So, uh, wanna...get a table?"
Nodding, Sakura stepped to a wooden table and took a seat on the bench. "So..uhm...what do they serve here, Naruto?" She rested her elbows on the table, something her mother always scolded her for, saying it wasn't lady-like and that she needed to learn to mind her manners at the table. Who cares?
Patting the pocket in her right pant leg, Sakura double-checked that her wallet was still in place. Lee had warned her about carrying a thick purse and decided to carry only what she needed and to watch her budget in case she needed something else. Seeing that this place was the slummish areas, she certainly hoped that food didn't cost much.
"Well, uh, they serve a lot, I guess," he said, blinking slowly. He shrugged lazily, picking up his menu to scan down the page. As if he even needed to; he'd memorized the catalogue of food available at the Blue Butterfly long ago. This was just a formality, really. "I dunno, just check the menu, see what tickles your fancy."
"And, uh, I can probably pay. If you want," he added, only because it seemed like the polite thing to say. He'd never been able to treat someone before, but his windfall on New Year's was certainly nice...
"Uhm...I'll get whatever you get. And...uhm...I can pay for myself!" Sakura certainly hoped the boy wouldn't take any offense and think that she meant it in a 'because I have money and you don't' sort of way. It was more of the, 'We just met, and even though it feels like we've known each other forever, I don't feel comfortable if someone else paid for me' way.
"Well, uh, if you're sure," he said, showing a smile, even though he felt a bit bad about her not letting him pay. He always thought guys were supposed to pay for women when they ate, but then, he wasn't a noble, so he wouldn't know so much.
They walked out of the Inn a long while later, wallets lighter but stomachs considerably heavier. He was honestly surprised by how much she'd put away, impressed even. But as he looked to the sun, starting to hang low in the sky with dark red streaking the blue, he knew their journey together would have to soon come to a close. "So, uh, should I...walk you home? Or would that be too troublesome, to be seen with a guy like me?" he laughed, meaning it as light hearted, but he knew that her being seen around someone from the slums would bring nothing but trouble, to her at least.
"Uhm...actually..." Sakura stuttered, trying not to make it sound like she didn't want him to walk her home because of appearance value, but mostly because she had her own secrets to keep. "I think I can handle myself." she added all too quickly, and scolded herself for sounding like she was talking to a stranger on the street. "But, I do hope to see you again..." Sakura stopped, walking in front of Naruto to look him in the face. "Do you know when we can meet again? I'm sure I can make time whenever." She hoped it would be soon, she never had so much fun in her life.
"O-oh, okay," Naruto mumbled, looking away. He knew, deep down, that she would have at least made him wait on the outside of the richer buildings, but that didn't mean he hadn't hoped. It was his stupid pride's fault, but it still stung a little. But then he brightened up again almost instantly, both thanks to her question and his own, inexhaustable enthusiasm. "Well, I'm pretty much out here all the time, so I'm sure you'll see me around again. An', hey, just for you, I'll meet you at that fountain again at...noon. Any day. You can count on Uzumaki Naruto!"
Sakura smiled, glad the boy didn't take too much offense at wanting to go home herself. "Alright. I'll remember that, Naruto." She would make a trip to that fountain everyday if she could, but she would do her best. Nodding, the pink-haired girl turned around, waving. "I'll see you around, Naruto."
"Yeah, I'll see you," he said, waving back and smile slowly fading. He'd known the end would have to come, but couldn't exactly be prepared for it. So slowly, and with a bit more gloom than he'd had all day hanging over him, he turned and started the long, now lonely path back to the orphanage.
The pink-haired girl turned, frowning to see her new friend trudging along the path so sadly. Lightly, she ran to the blond, jumping on his back one last time for the night, "Good night, Naruto!" Springing off, she turned and bolted back home, trying to race the sunset so she wouldn't be home too late. She laughed when she turned the corner, hoping she would see the boy again.