Temptation (NEW)

Chapter Twenty-Four

feel free to yell at me bc the last time i updated was september 6th🤧

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The first week was awkward for sure. My shared apartment was already small, but it seemed even smaller with Sasuke added to the mix. We all had to tread lightly with each other and not step on any toes. Literally and figuratively. Believe me, I was happy about it all. I liked having him close by. I liked the small feats we would have as a new couple living together. However, it felt like everything would crumble if I wasn't careful. Sasuke was fragile, whether he wanted to admit it or not.

"Temari texted me," Shikamaru announced quietly to me.

We were sat side by side on the couch, attempting our usual weekend routine of relaxing in the morning. Sasuke was in my room, getting ready for the day. Consider it the calm before the storm.

"Are they almost here?" They meant Temari and her brothers. Shikamaru's birthday weekend was upon us already.

"Yep," Shikamaru nodded.

I wasn't sure how this would all play out. Let's not forget that I left Gaara at a party to be with Sasuke. I like to think Sasuke doesn't mind Gaara being around. I mean, I did ditch him for Sasuke. He barely reacted when I told him about our plans for the weekend and seemed okay with it. But then again, he has been oddly unemotional with everything in his life. So who knows how he might actually feel about it?

"Smoke?" Shikamaru offered, presenting me with a freshly rolled joint between his fingers.

I shook my head and had to restrain myself from making a face. "Probably not a good idea."

"Probably not," Shikamaru agreed, bringing it to his own lips. "But it'd take the edge off."

He could obviously see my knee shaking like crazy. I was pretty nervous to see everything pan out. It was like some big test for our relationship and I had forgotten to study. How the hell am I supposed to mingle my two worlds together?

"Just one hit won't hurt," Shikamaru encouraged, dangling the now-lit joint towards me again. "You look like you could use it."

I considered it for a second, but a new set of hands appeared to take the chance from me. Looking up and behind me, Sasuke stood with his hand outreached. He brought the joint he snatched to his lips and inhaled deeply.

"Hey, shouldn't you be staying clean for jobs and shit?" Shikamaru scolded, reaching a grabby-hand up towards his stolen joint.

Sasuke exhaled a big puff of smoke and shook his head. "I got a job."

My eyes widened, "Really?"

"Bartending," Sasuke shrugged, bring the joint back up to his lips for one more hit. "I got the call this morning."

"Your first night of tips can go towards paying for the weed you just smoked," Shikamaru smirked, yet his eyes had a hint of annoyance.

With his annoyance far more visible on his face, Sasuke raised his middle finger towards Shikamaru. "Fuck off."

"Hey, relax," I scolded. Their slight bickering only made me more nervous. I'm sure it'd be worse with Temari and her brothers around. It'll probably be a warzone of catty remarks.

Sasuke shrugged off my request and disappeared into the kitchen. I could hear the clanking of coffee mugs and the coffee pot. Shikamaru looked pleased to have his weed back, happily putting the joint back between his lips. It's only been a week and my nerves are frayed.

"Tonight is going to be a fucking nightmare," I groaned while covering my face with my hands.

...

"Are you sure you're cool with being here?" I prodded, pacing my room anxiously. I've probably walked the small space about a dozen times now. "We can ditch at any time, alright?"

Sasuke rolled his eyes as he sat sprawled on my bed. He seemed less than bothered, but that might be the weed he smoked earlier working its magic. "Are you that worried about your little ex-boyfriend?"

"Not so much," I corrected. "His sister is the problem."

"I dated Sakura," Sasuke assured. "I think I can handle it."

Fair point.

I could hear stirring in the living room, followed by lots of footsteps and new voices. Dread washed over me and Sasuke could surely see it. I don't know how I could possibly be more worried than him, but then again, I suppose he has been through worse things the past couple of weeks. Might as well get it all over with.

"Happy birthday!" Temari squealed to Shikamaru, hugging him tightly. She looked happy until her eyes panned around to find Sasuke and I entering the living room. It's no surprise to find she still isn't over what I had done.

Her brothers took notice of her wavering smile and looked over to us, too. Kankuro, who is usually goofy and fun, looked just as peeved as Temari. Surprisingly, Gaara seemed unphased by Sasuke being in the room. I think he even cracked a small smile. Despite his looks, he was the most tolerant of the siblings.

"Hey, guys," I choked out to fill the awkward silence. Honestly, I felt stupid for even saying anything.

Temari turned her head with a 'hmph' and that was all she needed to say. Kankuro muttered a 'hey' before hiding away from the awkwardness in his phone. I looked over to Shikamaru in desperation.

"Let's go drop your bag in my room," Shikamaru thankfully interrupted. He nudged Temari along with him, leaving the two brothers in the room with us.

I couldn't bring myself to look at Gaara. We had already talked, but it's a lot different with the other man in the room. It feels like I'm just slapping him in the face with it. Sasuke kept his eyes low, but I could tell he was watching me still. Maybe he was more worried than he let on. I wondered how long we could just stand here awkwardly until I heard a knock on the door.

Thank God, this has to be Choji.

I rushed away without much regard and opened our front door. Choji stood with his usual stock of food in his hands, but he had something---or rather, someone---with him, too. I should have realized this would happen. I've been friends with Shikamaru for years so I ought to know who shows up for his birthday. With everything going on, it must have slipped my mind. Sasuke is probably going to kill me.

"Choji...Ino..." I slowly greeted as if my soul was leaving my body with every syllable. I hoped that Choji could read my mind. Inside of it, I was screaming "What the fuck?!"

"I hope we aren't too late," Choji laughed, oblivious to my silent plea for help.

"No, of course not," I replied nervously.

As they walked inside, I quickly turned to find Sasuke's eyes. Should I be excited that he is finally showing a twinge of emotion? I think it might be a little fear. Or is it anger? Honestly, it could be both. As Choji and Ino disappeared into the kitchen, I made my way back to stand beside Sasuke. He quickly grabbed the back of my shirt and pulled me close enough for him to whisper in my ear.

"Is ditching still on the table?"

I considered it. How mad would Shikamaru be?