The Ardor of Every Day

14.

The car ride to Sasuke's house was very quiet. The only sounds were the ones that the car made and the sound of the wind rushing outside and entering the vehicle. It wasn't awkward because they understood each other mutually. There was no music or anything like that to distract them from their thoughts. After today's events, they both understood that their relationship was nothing as simple as the start of a mere friendship. Naruto had known about his feelings for some time now, but he chose not to tell Sasuke. It was way too early to confess something like that, especially when he didn't understand them fully himself. And Sasuke didn't like labels, he chose to leave their affair undefined for now. Although he did feel some kind of attachment building towards Naruto. But he decided to look deeper into his feelings later since it seemed like a convenient and fast facade at the moment. Things transpired so fast and he was the only friend he had made and opened up to in this new town where he didn't know anyone else. Things occurred too good to be true and too accommodating.

Shortly after, they reached Sasuke's house. Sasuke grabbed all his stuff from the car and got out. Naruto crossed his arms on the window and put his head on them, poking outside. He was in hopes to converse with Sasuke before bidding farewell to him. Sasuke turned around to face him before stepping further towards his house.

"I know this is probably gonna be annoying but, you sure you're ok?" Asked Naruto.

"Yes yes, I am." Sasuke swung his bag a little while looking at his feet and said.

"Ok then. Text me anytime you want, ok?" Naruto didn't want to leave him, but he had to.

"Ok."

"Good night." Naruto said, putting his hands back on the wheel.

"Good night." Sasuke said, looking at him.

Naruto matched his eyes for an adequate five seconds before he sighed and pressed on the accelerator. Sasuke waited for his car to exit the street before he went inside his house. Naruto texted Shikamaru that he'd be there soon when he was waiting at a red light. Thoughts of Sasuke seldom left his head and right now he was overcome with them. So much had happened in just one day. The river of dispositions had overflowed. Only time could tell if this flood would cause destruction and distress or if it'll make way for something better to blossom. He constantly wished for Sasuke to talk more to him, not only about his feelings but anything at all. He knew that their relationship had so much potential and Naruto just simply wanted more. But he knew he had to be patient.

Soon he arrived at Shikamaru's house, where he was waiting outside for Naruto. Naruto parked his car and jogged up to where Shikamaru was leaning. His house was different from the outside. It had a couple of stairs in the front and two pillars on the porch, leading the way to the door.

"Hey, what's up?" Shikamaru asked.

"Nothing, nice weather right?" Naruto said, looking up at the sky.

Shikamaru made a disgruntled face at Naruto at that statement.

"Cut the bullshit, what's going on? You never ask to meet up like this."

"Ah, I don't know what's going on!" Naruto dug his face in his palms and let out a frustrated sigh.

"Let's sit." Said Shikamaru and sat down on the higher step.

Naruto followed his actions and took a seat beside him.

"What is this about?"

"A friend, I think." Said Naruto. The night breeze sent a tiny shiver through his body.

"You think? Is it about Hinata?" Shikamaru raised his brows.

"No no, but I did clear up things with her and told her how I feel."