Archive of Our Own

Chapter Text

It’s late evening, and Iruka is home alone. It’s a ‘no Kakashi’ day, and Naruto has soccer practice, so he has the place to himself for a little while. It's interesting how his life used to always be filled with quiet lonely nights like this, and how quickly that all seemed to change in just one short year. Now, the silent condo is almost unsettling.

Not that the alone time isn’t welcome though, and he is more than ready to take advantage of it. He plops down on the couch to get some much needed relaxation time and flicks on the TV. Since he's alone, he can catch up on his favorite awful reality shows that he loves so much. If Naruto or Kakashi were home, they'd hound him mercilessly for watching them - which Iruka thinks is unfair considering Kakashi’s choice of reading material and Naruto’s love of terribly cheesy pro wrestling - so he’s excited to finally be able do so in peace.

Only, he isn't completely alone, of course. Not even 5 minutes into the show and Kurama is strolling up to the couch to sit at Iruka's feet and...stare. Just stare.

"What?" Iruka asks the dog, looking at him expectantly, like he'll answer.

The dog blinks, his gaze somehow unnerving.

"Alright fine, you win." Iruka sighs, and scoots over, making room for the dog to jump up next to him. "You're so bossy."

Kurama hops up and drapes his body across the couch, taking up most of the space and kicking at Iruka with his back legs while he gets comfortable.

"For real?" Iruka grumbles, and shifts over some more, only to jump when his ass comes in contact with something hard and plastic.

"Ouch what the-" He pulls the rectangular item out from under him, and groans when he recognizes it as the new expensive video game thing Iruka just bought Naruto. He doesn't even know what it is, just that it cost him $300 and shouldn't be thrown haphazardly on the couch.

He gets up with the item in hand and heads to Naruto's room. The boy isn't home, so he doesn't have to worry about knocking this time, and lets himself inside. Even with the lights off, Naruto's room is still illuminated with a dim glow. He has at least 3 tanks that line one wall - a snake, 2 lizards, and a turtle inhabiting them - and one cage next to his desk which holds two rabbits, that are from the very same litter Naruto made Iruka save all those years ago.

Along with the lamps from the tanks, his window blinds are pulled open, and light filters in from outside. Multiple plants spill over the windowsill, their vines draping over to cover parts of his desk. Iruka can see his desk is scattered with piles of unorganized stacks of paper, but even still he figures it's a better place for his game than the couch, so he walks over to it and lays the item on top of the mess.

When he turns to leave, he pauses upon looking at Naruto's bed. The sheets are thrown atop it in a tangled pile, and the pillows are all over the place, but that isn’t what Iruka is focused on. What his eyes are drawn to, is the wall beside it. It’s covered in photos taped in a big college, featuring numerous pictures of Naruto throughout the years - there is the selfie of him and Iruka, a photo with him when he got his first blue ribbon in jujutsu, and a ton of others with him and all the different animals he’s befriended in his life. Iruka has noticed it before of course, but it's been a while since he's looked at it. Not since before the incident with Sasuke, and among the various photos of Naruto with friends, he is surprised to see all the photos with Sasuke are still there. It reminds Iruka of how he still had pictures of his ex on his phone years after they broke up - not anymore, they're gone now - and it breaks his heart.

"What are you doing?"

Iruka jolts in surprise at Naruto's voice, and turns quickly to face him. He is standing in his doorway, still in his soccer uniform and duffle bag hanging off his shoulder.

"Cleaning up after you," Iruka explains.

Naruto gives him a look like he doesn't fully believe him, and drops his bag to the floor before entering the room fully. It's been a couple days since the blowjob fiasco, and the tension between them has dissipated despite not actually talking about it.

"Kakashi got you your stuff ok?" Iruka asks - already knowing the answer considering Naruto is wearing the evidence - just to have something to say.

"Yeah," Naruto answers flatly. He walks over to his closet and pulls off his sweaty t-shirt.

Iruka can tell he's in a foul mood, and he fears it may be his fault. They can't not talk about this forever.

"Listen Naruto- what the hell is that?" Iruka squawks, looking at a now shirtless Naruto and the piece of jewelry sticking out his freaking belly button.

Naruto looks down at himself, unfazed by Iruka's shock. The ring in his stomach moves with him, a little charm with a swirling pattern on it dangles in its place.

"This?" He asks innocently. "It's a piercing."

"When did you get that?" Iruka asks in disbelief. "You aren't even legal age to get that. Don't you need parental permission?"

Naruto shrugs. "Gaara's older brother works part time at a tattoo shop and got me in. It's cool right?"

It is cool, Iruka thinks, but he's pissed Naruto did it behind his back. He sighs. 

"Naruto can we talk for a sec?" He asks, deciding to just bite the bullet.

Naruto hesitates. "Sure."

Sitting on Naruto's bed, Iruka waves him over. Naruto follows, and sits next to him, tense, waiting.

"Relax, you're not in trouble," Iruka says, feeling his anxiety radiating off of him. Honestly, he almost can't tell if it's his own or Naruto's, but still. 

Naruto turns his head to look at him with expectant eyes, his gaze obstructed by his bangs hanging over his forehead. Iruka can't help but reach a hand out and comb them back, taking in the sudden grown features on his son's face that seemed to have appeared overnight.

"You need a haircut," is all he says, ignoring the rush of emotions he wants to say instead.

Naruto cringes and backs away from his hand. "I wanna grow it out."

Iruka smiles. "Really? Why?"

"I 'unno, just cause," he mumbles in response, and goes back to staring straight ahead.

Iruka pauses - takes a deep breath. Alright, lets get this over with.   "You know I love you, right?"

Naruto keeps his gaze forward, drops his eyes to look at the floor. "I know."

"Ok," Iruka says, feeling awkward. "I just wanted you to know that. And, I know, I'm not your real dad or anything but-"

"It's ok Iruka," Naruto cuts him off. "I never met my real dad. I don't care about him."

That doesn't really make Iruka feel better. He swallows the lump in his throat. "Well, regardless, I- I know our circumstances aren't, like, the greatest or whatever. But…"

Iruka pauses again to collect himself, not wanting to say the wrong thing.

"I'm so glad you are in my life," he continues with a shaky breath. "I love you so much, more than anything, and it means the world to me that I can call you my son."

Naruto might not have intentionally called Iruka Dad, but Iruka is deliberately letting Naruto know - you are my son. If Iruka hasn’t made it explicitly clear before, he is doing so now.

Naruto turns his head away with a sniff, but not fast enough for Iruka to miss the glassy look in his eyes. "You're being really sappy right now, ya know."

"I know, I'm sorry," Iruka reaches over to grab Naruto's hand from his lap and holds it tight, trying to urge Naruto to look at him. They don't have these types of talks enough - and maybe that's Iruka's fault after all - so he needs to make sure Naruto knows how much he is loved. "I just want you to know that no matter what I am so proud of you. Please don't be afraid to come to me about anything. Anything at all. You wanna get a piercing? That's fine. You wanna dye your hair bright orange? Fine. Just please talk to me beforehand, ok?"

Naruto gives him a tentative sideways glance. "You'd let me dye my hair orange?"

Iruka's eyes widen, not expecting Naruto to call his bluff. He should have known better. "Uh, I mean, I guess. Don't you think your blond hair is pretty though?"

Naruto grins. "I wanna go platinum!"

Iruka's shoulders sag in relief. "Yeah, I think that'd look nice, Naruto."

Naruto's grin grows as he drags a hand through his hair, making it stick up all over.

Iruka smiles back at him, before getting serious again. He squeezes his hand so he'll pay attention. "What I'm really saying, Naruto, is that I want you to be able to trust me. You can talk to me about anything. I don't want to be a parent that their child is afraid of."

Naruto's face falls at that, and Iruka knows he's struck a chord. Naruto knows his friend is suffering, and all Iruka can do is show Naruto that he won’t allow him to suffer like that as well. He can’t do much about Sasuke, but Kakashi is right, maybe if he extends his hand to Naruto, Naruto will pass that care and affection along where it is needed, and this anger and resentment Sasuke and he have for each other can fade away. 

"Is there something you wanna talk about?" Iruka treads lightly, trying to encourage him without pushing his luck. "Like…I don't know...boys maybe?"

Naruto pulls his hand away, sensing exactly what Iruka is doing. "There's not really anything to talk about."

Iruka quirks a brow at him. Beating around the bush isn’t going to work apparently. "Really? So what I saw between you and Shikamaru? That's not anything to talk about?"

Naruto throws his head back with a groan. 

"I'm only asking!" Iruka says in defense, Naruto not being the only one dreading this conversation. "I just wanna know when you're dating someone!"

"I'm not dating anyone!" Naruto says. "It isn't like that!"

"Then what's it like?" Iruka asks, genuinely not knowing. "You're saying you're not dating any of these boys? Gaara? Neji? Kiba?"

"Kiba?" Naruto makes a face. "I just made out with Kiba cause he wanted to get some girl's attention. How do you know about that?"

Iruka freezes, realizing he may have just thrown Kakashi under the bus. "Nevermind that. I just want to make sure you're ok, alright? I get worried, sometimes."

"You don't have to worry. They're my friends," Naruto explains, looking sheepish for the first time in his life. "It's not serious. It's just like, for fun, or whatever."

"Ok," Iruka says slowly, trying to understand. He shakes his head and huffs out a laugh, processing the idea of Naruto just hooking up casually with friends. "Wow, things are so different from when I was kid."

Naruto looks at him confused.

"When I was your age," Iruka says with a sad smile. "I didn't know anyone else like me. And here you are, you and all your friends, all of you being so carefree and open with each other I-"

He doesn't know why, but he suddenly feels choked up just thinking about it. Iruka felt so alone growing up, losing his family and having to come out all on his own with no support either. He was elated to meet just one gay person his age, and here Naruto is with a whole crew by his side. 

"Iruka…?" Naruto asks softly, hearing the emotional shift in his voice.

Iruka forces himself to reign in his emotions, focusing back on Naruto. "Just, be careful ok? I know they are your friends but, be safe about it, alright?"

Naruto nods. "I am."

"And don't," Iruka tries to say this carefully. "Don't settle alright? I know that sometimes it can feel lonely, or like you have no choice, but you do, ok? There's no shame in waiting for what feels right."

Naruto ducks his head at that, contemplating Iruka's words.

"How do you know?" He questions quietly after a moment.

"What?" Iruka asks. Naruto won't look at him again, and keeps his eyes forward as his fingers tug nervously at the hem of his shorts.

"How do you know when to wait?" He clarifies. Then finally looks at Iruka, his eyes wide with uncertainty and sadness. "How do you know it's the right thing to do? How do you know it's worth it?"

Iruka's eyes flick across Naruto's face, the frustration and heartache apparent all over his features. He knows he's talking about Sasuke. Iruka wishes he had an answer for him.

"That's hard to say," Iruka tells him honestly. "The best thing you can do is listen to your intuition."

Naruto wrinkles his brows together. "My intuition?"

"Mhm," Iruka nods, and puts a hand on his chest for emphasis. "When you feel it, you’ll know."

Naruto considers this, a deep look of thought on his face.

"So," he looks to Iruka. "What are you waiting for?"

That surprises Iruka. "Me? What do you mean?"

Naruto shrugs. "You love Kakashi, right?"

"Ah," Iruka feels his face heat up. "Yeah, I do."

"Does he love you back?" Naruto asks.

"Of course," Iruka responds, sure of it. "Why are you asking?"

"I dunno," Naruto averts his gaze. "You guys have just been together a long time, ya know."

"Yes," Iruka narrows his eyes at him, not sure where he's going with this.

"Aren’t you going to get married?" He asks.

A surprising burst of laughter escapes Iruka's mouth, startled that Naruto would be concerned with something like that. He clears his throat awkwardly before answering. "Um, well it's not something we've exactly talked about, so uh I don't-"

He stops his uneasy ramblings when Naruto looks at him with a surprisingly serious expression. "Don’t you want to?"

Honestly, Iruka hasn't thought about the idea of marriage in a long time. When he was young, he never thought it was a possibility for him, then when he was dating his ex, it seemed like a future he could see for himself. They had actually talked about it and planned for it, but ultimately, it just kept getting pushed aside. Looking back, Iruka should have seen that as a sign, and ever since marriage has left an odd taste in his mouth.

"I don't know," he says, not even sure how to begin to tackle that question with Naruto. 

Naruto turns his head away abruptly, a deep frown on his face. "If you love each other, you should get married. That's what people do when they're in love. They get married and they start a family."

"I have a family," Iruka tells him earnestly without even needing to think twice. He's actually offended that Naruto would insinuate he doesn't have a family, that he isn't his family. "You're my family, and Kakashi is a part of our family too."

"But," Naruto pushes. "You adopted me because you love me. If Kakashi loved you wouldn't he prove it? If you're not married then how do you know for sure? How do you know he'll stay? What if he leaves? What if-"

Oh.

"Naruto," Iruka cuts him off, voice softening. "If Kakashi wants to leave me he can."

Naruto's mouth snaps shut, stunned by the casual ease at which Iruka says it.

"People leave sometimes," Iruka says, knowing that Naruto knows this -- knows the hurt and sting that abandonment leaves, and knows the familiar ache of loneliness and self doubt that is forever left behind. 

Naruto scowls, bitterness in his voice. "But why? If it's right, if I know it's right, then why? Why can't he see-"

He stops himself, embarrassed. He isn’t talking about Kakashi anymore, and that doesn’t go unnoticed by Iruka.

"If it's right then it will happen in its own way," Iruka saves him from having to continue. "It might just be the best option for you right now, and maybe you'll look back and realize they did it for a good reason and you'll be grateful."

Naruto doesn't look impressed. Iruka knows he must be frustrated. He knows that the pain of losing his parents, having foster family after foster family pass over him, and now having his own best friend leave him must all be adding up. Iruka has been there too. He remembers feeling that weight of I'm not good enough , and the feeling of it dragging him down for years.

"I know it sucks, I do, and I know it doesn't make sense, but trust me," Iruka shakes his head as he remembers the heartache of his last relationship. "People can leave because they care about you. Because they know staying could hurt you more. It's when people stay even though they know they don't love you - that’s worse, that is the worst type of betrayal and that hurts so much more- more than anything-"

By the time Iruka stops talking, Naruto is looking at him with a curious expression, eyes wide with concern. Iruka sniffs and turns away, not even realizing how he failed to stop tears from forming in his eyes. He wipes them away quickly.

"I still remember that day," Naruto says suddenly. Iruka looks back at him again, but Naruto continues before he can question him, speaking in a surprisingly quiet tone. "The day you came back. It was first grade, but like, the second time, when I was held back, and you were out for a whole two weeks. We had a sub that was real mean and I hated her. I was excited when they said you'd be coming back, but then-"

He stops, and his eyes drop down to the scar across Iruka's face. Unconsciously, Iruka holds a hand up to it, rubbing at the side of his nose as if he can wipe it away.

"They warned us you'd look different, but they told us not to say anything," Naruto explains further. "It made me angry, because I wanted to know if you were ok, but they said we'd get in trouble if we asked."

Iruka remembers it clearly as well. Coming back to work was one of the hardest things he had to do - knowing that his physical appearance was forever changed, and knowing that everyone knew why without him even having to say it - and seeing everyone look at him with nothing but pity. It made him feel ill. It still does sometimes.

"So," Naruto clears his throat. "Um, are you ok?"

Iruka laughs. 8 years and Naruto can finally ask him that question. "Yeah, I'm ok now, thank you."

"Ok good," Naruto says with a breath of relief. "Was it- was it someone you loved?"

"I thought I loved him at the time, yes,” Iruka tells him honestly. “And I thought he loved me back, but people change.”

“I don’t like that,” Naruto pouts, almost childlike. “I don’t understand how someone can just change like that.”

“It’s just a part of life Naruto,” Iruka says, and all this worrying he’s been having about Naruto growing up too fast is suddenly put into perspective again. Naruto is still young, and he still only sees things in black and white.

“But, how are you supposed to trust anyone?” Naruto vents in frustration. “Everyone can change, even people you love, and suddenly they don’t love you anymore and they hurt you and leave you? Why love anyone then?”

“Don’t say that,” Iruka grabs his hand again, this time cupping it in both of his own - an urgent plea in his voice when he speaks. “You are one of the most loving and kind hearted people I have ever met. You have such a big heart Naruto, please don’t shut it off from the world.”

Naruto stares down at their conjoined hands, still looking uncertain.

“No matter what,” Iruka continues. “Just keep loving the way you do. Ever since I met you, you always loved so deeply and it has helped me more than you even know, ok? Whoever loves you back will show you that same love. Just listen to the signs. Watch them. You will know.”

Naruto keeps his eyes down, his face is hard for Iruka to read. After a moment, he speaks barely above a whisper. “How can you be so sure?”

“Because you have shown me love,” Iruka tells him. “You and Kakashi, and that's how I know love is so much more than blood and marriage. I didn’t have a family, but I found you. I had a man who promised me marriage but treated me like nothing, and now I have a man who loves me without needing to make empty promises. One who shows me how much he loves me every day, from reminding me to eat to watching after you as if you were his own, and I don’t care if we ever get married because I know what we have is real. Real love that I hope I can show you, so when you feel that love from someone else you will recognize it, because you deserve it, Naruto, you deserve that and so much more.”

He says it all in a frenzied hurry, his voice leaving him in a rush as he tries desperately to reach Naruto and make him understand. He is winded by the end of it, and the last bit of breath he has is knocked out of him when Naruto pulls him into a bone crushing hug. It takes a moment for Iruka to register what is happening, before he returns it with just as much force.

“I love you too, Iruka,” Naruto says, his voice muffled in their tight embrace.

Iruka stays in the hold a second longer, just letting all the overwhelming emotions wash over him. When he pulls away, he quickly wipes at his wet eyes, then drags a gentle finger over Naruto’s cheeks to wipe away his own tears. 

“Thank you,” Iruka says, once again combing back the boy’s bangs and looking at his face. “How’re you feeling?”

“‘M ok,” Naruto mumbles, allowing Iruka to paw at him. “I think...I get it now.”

“Good,” Iruka smiles at him, finally dropping his hands, and sniffing one last time. “So, next time you’ll talk to me right? I wanna know the next time you get a piercing, ok?"

Naruto rolls his eyes, but a big grin spreads on his face. “Yeah, ok, fine.”

“Hey, it’s not just about you,” Iruka smirks at him. “What if I want to get one with you? Do you think Kakashi would like that?”

That makes Naruto laugh. “Oh my god. You should get a belly button ring too! Kakashi would freak out!”

Iruka feels his face heat up. He was thinking more along the lines of an actual earring, not a freaking belly button ring. “Ah, I might be too old for that.”

“Hm,” Naruto ponders that, and Iruka tries not to be offended. Then his face lights up. “You should get a nose ring! Those are cute, and they’re, like, trendy so you can totally pull it off, ya know.”

“I’ll think about it,” Iruka says, not really intending on it, but he’s flattered Naruto thinks he’s cool enough for that anyway. 

Naruto beams at him, his mood clearly boosted, and Iruka feels like a huge weight has been lifted off his chest as well - like now a door has been opened, and they can navigate this new area of their lives together.

“So, that’s it?” Iruka asks, a teasing tone in his voice now. “You got all these boys coming after you and no boyfriend? One of them doesn’t have your eye more than the others?”

Naruto’s face becomes serious once more. “I’m waiting for someone.”

He says it confidently, and Iruka knows he took their conversation to heart. It makes him smile. 

“I don’t mind, like, being with my friends,” Naruto continues, choosing his words carefully to spare Iruka the details. “But, when I get a boyfriend I want it to be more than that, ya know? I can make out with anyone, but...love is different. I think...when I find the right person- I think maybe I’ll try and take things slow.”

“I think that sounds good, Naruto.” Iruka says, and bumps his shoulder against Naruto’s. Naruto leans into the touch, the smile returning on his face.

“Knock knock.”

They both look up, startled to see Kakashi standing in the doorway, a hand raised to tap his knuckle against the wooden frame. 

“What’re y’all up to?” He asks in his usual casual tone.

“Just chatting,” Iruka answers, not even fighting back his big stupid grin at seeing the other man. “I thought you’d be at your place tonight?”

Kakashi shrugs. “What can I say. I missed my boys.”

He steps into the room more then, and turns to look at the tank closest to him, bending over to get a better view of the snake inside.

“How’s Orochimaru doing? Still having trouble feeding him?”

Iruka shifts his eyes over to Naruto, who has a thoughtful expression on his face. Iruka can tell he is looking at Kakashi differently now. Kakashi, who calls them ‘ his boys’ and who remembers all of Naruto’s pets’ names when Iruka can’t.

“He’s being a diva like always,” Naruto answers. “He doesn’t like the new frozen mice I got him.”

“Hm,” Kakashi stands up straight and turns back to him. “We’ll have to figure something else out then. Can’t have him starving himself.”

“Yeah,” Naruto agrees absentmindedly. Then he perks up suddenly. “Hey, Kakashi, what do you think of Iruka getting his belly button pierced?”

“Naruto-” Iruka hisses.

“That’d be hot,” Kakashi responds instantly.

“I’m not getting my belly button pierced!” Iruka yells. Naruto rolls back on his bed with an obnoxious laugh.

“Told you Iruka! You gotta now! You gotta!”

“Shut up brat!” Iruka grabs a pillow from beside him and throws it at Naruto, who catches it and clutches it to his chest.

Iruka looks to Kakashi with a pleading look in his eyes.

Kakashi has zero sympathy for him. “I dunno, sounds like you gotta now."

“You both are the worst,” Iruka grumbles, finally getting up from the bed.

“Kakashi you gotta get something too!” Naruto giggles with his chin resting on the pillow.

“How do you know I don’t already have something?” Kakashi says back with a comically exaggerated wink, and then slips out the door before Naruto can ask anymore questions.

Naruto turns to look at Iruka with wide eyes.

Iruka smirks, but says nothing in response, allowing Kakashi to keep his mystery, and heads to follow him out the room.

“Hey,” Naruto stops him. He turns to look back at him. Naruto is sitting on his bed, pillow held tight against him, and for the second time that evening Iruka sees him looking shy . “Thank you again, Dad.”

Iruka pauses, stays standing stark still in the doorway as he processes the words. Again, he feels like his heart might explode from the sheer amount of happiness he feels.

“Of course,” he says, trying to keep his voice steady even though he feels like he wants to cry with joy. “You’re my son. I love you.”

Naruto bites his lip and looks away, and Iruka knows he must be feeling the same way.

"You tell me if you need anything, ok?" Iruka says - not being able to stop himself - as a little payback. "Do you have condoms? Lube?"

"Oh my god yes," Naruto smacks a hand to his forehead, embarrassed, the atmosphere in the room shifting back to a lighthearted one.

"Good," Iruka nods. "Make sure you have plenty of lube. And don't be afraid to use a lot of it, trust me."

"Please stop talking." Naruto groans, burying his face into the pillow. Iruka leaves him alone then, and heads off to the kitchen after Kakashi.

When Iruka finds him, Kakashi is sitting at the table - head down looking at his phone. Just seeing the back of his stupid head and his dumb messy hair makes Iruka's heart skip a beat. After the talk with Naruto, he feels overflowing with the love he has for both these men in his life.

Feeling bold, he creeps up behind Kakashi, staying as quiet as possible before wrapping his arms around his neck and pressing a kiss against his temple.

Kakashi perks up, and turns his head to look up at Iruka. "Hey-"

Iruka shuts him up with a kiss, coaxing Kakashi to open his mouth and sliding their tongues together. He trails a hand down his chest as the kiss gets deeper, until they are both panting into each other's mouths.

Kakashi pulls away when Iruka's hand cups his pectoral, playfully skimming a thumb over his nipple.

"Hmm," he hums, and gives Iruka one more tiny peck. "What's gotten into you?"

"Nothing," Iruka says innocently, and he repeats Kakashi's action by giving him a teasing kiss in return, and then another at the corner of his mouth, followed by another right on his beauty mark that Iruka adores. "Why? Are you complaining?"

Kakashi blinks once, dazed, before his lips spread into a soft smile. His hand comes up to press against Iruka's where it rests on his chest. "Of course not."

Iruka straightens up, gliding his hand up his chest and shoulder to the back of his neck, then up into his hair. Kakashi's mouth drops open in a silent moan as Iruka grabs a handful and tugs , twisting his hand and forcing Kakashi's head back with a rough pull . "Good. It's rude to complain."

"Ah," Kakashi gasps. "Fuck, Iruka-"

"Right, Kakashi?" Iruka prompts him, whispering his name in a way that he knows drives Kakashi mad. He guides Kakashi's head back more, making his neck crane so he's looking up almost parallel at Iruka. Iruka leans over him, close enough to feel his breath. "You don't want to be rude, right baby?"

Kakashi's eyes slip closed at the rarely used pet name. He licks his lips and Iruka watches his adam's apple bob as he swallows before answering.

"No, never," it comes out breathless and shaky, the pure desire that coats his voice making it sound sweet and thick like a smokey honey - and so badly Iruka wants to taste, wants to lick it right out of his mouth and breath it into his lungs.

He leans down for another kiss, when a sudden ding sounds from Kakashi's cellphone, making them both jump at the interruption. Kakashi's eyes snap open, and he quickly pulls his head forward and reaches for where the phone sits on the table. Iruka drops his hold as Kakashi moves, and manages to see the screen light up with a notification, before Kakashi flips it over, face down, on the table.

Typically, Iruka wouldn't think twice of whatever message Kakashi could be receiving, but typically, Kakashi doesn't rush to hide it from him.

"What was that?" Iruka asks, standing up straight again beside Kakashi.

"Nothing," Kakashi answers, a little too quickly.

Iruka narrows his eyes at him. "Nothing?"

Kakashi waves a hand vaguely. "It's just a work thing. Don't worry about it."

Iruka wants to ask how do you know since Kakashi didn't even look at the message himself, apparently too focused on preventing Iruka from seeing it. Iruka frowns, and moves to step away when Kakashi's arms come out to wrap around his waist.

"Hey, wait," Kakashi says with a pout. "Where're you going, huh?"

"Don't worry about it," Iruka says, mockingly in return, not hiding his annoyance. If Kakashi thinks he’s gonna go back to kissing up on him after that , then he’s sorely mistaken. He swats Kakashi's hands away and walks over to the fridge to pretend to look for something, just to seem busy.

He knows it may be silly, but it just seems like weird timing - after Iruka having that conversation with Naruto - that all the sudden this would happen. Kakashi has never been secretive about his phone. He actually is one of the only people Iruka knows who doesn't have a lock screen password. So why now? And why when Iruka has Naruto's words ringing in his head. How do you know he won't leave?

Iruka hears Kakashi sigh, but he says nothing further before Naruto is bursting into the room.

"Hey Kakashi since you're here, are you making dinner tonight?" He walks right up to Iruka and gets in his space, wedging himself between Iruka and the door to grab a carton of milk.

"Sure," Kakashi says - voice sounding tired - and Iruka knows he's annoyed too, but what gives him the right? It's his fault. Iruka glares at him from over Naruto's shoulder. "What do you want?"

"French toast." Naruto answers as he goes to chug from the carton. 

Iruka reaches from behind to intercept it, and puts it back on the shelf. "Don't be gross. And no breakfast for dinner."

"Why?!" Naruto whines, hand still in the air as if he was still holding the milk.

"Yeah, c'mon Iruka," Kakashi says, locking eyes with Iruka. "What's the big deal?"

The way he says it grates on Iruka's nerves - like a taunt - because they both know he isn't talking about dinner. What's the big deal? He knows what the big deal is. You don't just act shady like that and expect the other person not to be suspicious. What is he hiding?

Iruka has to bite his tongue not to freak out in front of Naruto. He can't believe Kakashi would do this right after he defended him to the boy too. The nerve.

"Fine," he says, throwing his hands up dramatically. "You're right. Whatever. It's not a big deal. Let's have french toast for dinner!"

He pushes past Naruto to leave the kitchen, beyond aggravated by the whole thing, and definitely beyond having an appetite. As he leaves, he can hear Naruto mumble, "what's with him?"  

If Kakashi answers, Iruka doesn't hear him, too busy rushing off to his bedroom to be alone.

An hour later, after the condo is efficiently smelling like a lovely sunday morning, Iruka's bedroom door opens. He's lying on the bed, phone in hand just aimlessly scrolling through Instagram, when Kakashi peeks his head inside. Iruka refuses to look away from his screen.

The door softly clicks shut as Kakashi slips all the way inside. He has a plate of french toast in his hand and the smell coming off them instantly fills the room with a sugary sweetness. Iruka keeps his eyes on his phone until Kakashi is right next to the bed, standing over him. He puts the plate down on the end table.

"Can you please eat something?" Is the first thing he says.

Iruka looks up at him with an unimpressed glare.

Kakashi sighs, and takes a seat on the edge of the bed next to him. 

"Listen, Iruka," he starts, speaking slowly. "I'm sorry."

Iruka swallows, waiting for more.

"I swear it's nothing bad," Kakashi continues, and he holds his gaze, like he's trying to convince him with his eyes. "But, I just can't tell you right now, alright? I will. But, not right now. I promise."

Iruka isn't sure how to take that. He also isn't sure if it makes him feel better or not. His stomach turns as anxiety sweeps through him.

Kakashi must sense it, because he reaches out and guides Iruka into dropping his phone on the bed, so he can take a hold of his hand. 

"I know I'm asking a lot," he says. "Trust me, please."

Iruka bites his lip in thought. Kakashi knows his trust has been broken before, and he knows he has dealt with the heartache of a cheating lover before, so he wants to believe him so badly - wants to believe that Kakashi is different and that he wouldn't put him through that again.

He says nothing in response, but his face does soften as he looks back at the other man. He does trust him. It’s scary how much he does, but he does.

Kakashi leans forward then, seeing the tension slip from Iruka’s body, and presses a small soft kiss against his lips. Iruka doesn’t return it, but he doesn’t turn away either.

When Kakashi pulls away, he keeps his face close, and his breath ghosts over Iruka’s skin. “I love you so much, you know that right?”

Iruka can’t stop himself from licking at his lips, chasing the feeling of Kakashi’s warm breath. 

“I love you too," he returns on autopilot, because he means it - and the words flow off his tongue easily - even in anger.

Kakashi kisses him again, and this time Iruka does kiss him back. It isn’t long before Kakashi’s hands find their way into Iruka’s hair, and he’s sliding further up onto the bed to get on top of him - pressing their bodies together. Iruka welcomes it, allows Kakashi’s weight on top of him as he wraps his arms around him and pushes up into him. It’s been a while since they’ve had a moment alone, and all the constant teasing they’ve subjected each other too is finally adding up.

Kakashi’s mouth moves from his lips to his jaw, leaving little nips and bites there before heading to his throat to latch onto and suck. Iruka gasps, clawing at the other man’s back in retaliation, and letting his legs drop open to make room for Kakashi to thrust his hips against his own.

“Fuck, Kakashi,” Iruka moans, keeping his voice low. “We can’t. Naruto-”

“He’s eating french toast,” Kakashi says quickly between kisses. “He’s busy.”

Iruka lets out an embarrassing giggle, the way Kakashi’s lips move against him making him ticklish. “Still - ah - still we shouldn’t-”

Kakashi pulls away to look down at him, and Iruka absolutely revels in the pink blush on his face. “When has that kid ever let anything get in between him and his food?”

“That doesn’t mean,” he stops himself, dropping his voice even lower. “That doesn’t mean we should fuck with him in the other room.”

“Fine. Later then,” Kakashi gives in. He straightens himself up so he’s kneeling above Iruka, and in a quick movement that takes Iruka by surprise, he drops a hand between his legs and drags it along the line of Iruka’s hard cock in a slow teasing touch. When he speaks again, his voice is rough and deep, heavy with arousal and no louder than a whisper. “Later, when I can get you all alone to myself, take my time with you, fuck you nice and slow just the way I know you like it."

“Yes,” Iruka nods earnestly, throwing his head back with a gasp, rocking his hips up into his hand. It really hasn’t even been that long, but it feels like it has been with how badly he wants Kakashi right now. “God, yes.”

“Fuck, Iruka, you look so fucking pretty right now I can’t stand it.” Kakashi says, reverent with it in a way that makes Iruka whimper.

Iruka covers a hand over his mouth to mask anymore sounds as Kakashi continues to tease him. His hand feels shockingly good through the fabric of his thin joggers, and Iruka's eyes roll to the back of his head as he gives into the sensation - his hips frantically thrusting up to meet him, until suddenly the sensation is gone completely.

"What the-" he curses, snapping his eyes open as the weight on the bed shifts. Kakashi smirks above him, throwing his legs over the side of the bed and standing.

"Eat your fucking french toast," he says, pointing to the forgotten plate on Iruka's end table, before leaving the room completely. Iruka screams into a pillow.

Friday comes, and Iruka gets a text from Kakashi saying he will not be coming over. Iruka stares at the text. It will be the first time in years that they haven't had their usual meet up every Friday for dinner. 

Something came up. 

I'll see you tomorrow 

Love you 

The message is followed by a series of kissy face emojis. 

Everything ok?

He sends in response - not being able to stop himself from being worried - because why wouldn't Kakashi tell him what this something is that has suddenly come up? 

Logically, Iruka knows there is nothing to worry about. Kakashi and Iruka are adults, and Kakashi is allowed to change plans. It's just that after this past week, between Naruto and the weird phone thing, he can't help but let himself overthink it all. Could it just be a coincidence?

Iruka puts his phone down on the kitchen counter and goes back to doing the dishes, just to keep his mind occupied. There's tape wrapped around the faucet to prevent it from squirting, and the garbage disposal is officially out of commission. He still hasn't heard back from maintenance.

"I'm home!" The backdoor slams open as Naruto enters the kitchen. He throws his backpack to the floor, narrowly missing Kurama as he runs in behind him. "What's for dinner?"

Iruka looks down at his phone, sitting dark on the counter - no notifications. "Just leftovers tonight."

Naruto stops to give Iruka a sour face. "Whaaatt. Where's Kakashi?"

"Something came up," Iruka answers as he wipes his hands on a towel. He smiles big and wide at Naruto, trying to hide his insecurities. "Looks like it's just gonna be me 'n you."

"Mmkay," Naruto purses his lips, holding a finger up to his chin thoughtfully. "In that case, you wanna watch the new episode of Total Divas with me?"

This time Iruka's smile is real. "Sure. I'll make popcorn."

They have popcorn and ice cream for dinner, and watch shitty reality TV shows all night. Iruka knows it isn't something Naruto typically enjoys, and he tries not to think about how the boy must be taking pity on him. Is it that obvious? The way he constantly keeps checking his phone probably isn't helping.

It isn't until he's getting ready for bed that he finally gets a text from Kakashi.

Everything is fine

Sorry

His next message is a picture. A basket of eggs.

The girls have been busy

Iruka can't help but smile at the string of chicken and frying pan emojis that follow.

Breakfast is on me

See you tomorrow 

Love you

Another series of heart emojis follow, and Iruka stares at the screen, finding himself hard pressed to even stay upset. He sends a heart in return, and goes to bed fighting the mix of emotions swirling in his gut.

Kakashi is at home, kneeling in the grass of his backyard brushing Shiba - with the other pups patiently waiting for their turn scattered in a circle around him - when he hears a rattling at his chain link fence.

"Hey- ow shit- ah!" 

When he turns to look, he's almost knocked on his ass at the sight of Naruto climbing over the fence.

"Naruto?" He calls, confusion evident in his voice.

"You weren't answering your door!" Naruto complains, picking himself up from the ground where he landed. He has on pastel pink shorts, and the skin of his knees are caked with dirt.

Kakashi looks back to the pack of dogs lounging around him. "Really? Not a single bark or growl from any of you. Terrible guard dogs you are."

They all ignore him. Shiba slumps down in the grass with a huff as Kakashi puts down the brush and drags himself to his feet. Naruto saunters over to him looking smug.

“It’s ‘cause they all like me,” Naruto says with a grin on his face.

"What are you doing here?" Kakashi asks, not wasting time with pleasantries. It's tuesday and Naruto should be at jujutsu practice. 

"Iruka asked for some eggs," Naruto answers, crossing his arms over chest - clad in a black hoodie that has big white letters on it reading ' stop animal testing.' There's a choker around his neck that has little white and yellow flowers on it.

"You're a bad liar," Kakashi says back, knowing damn well Iruka would just ask him to bring eggs over if he needed them, and not send Naruto 45 minutes across the city to Kakashi's house. Plus, Kakashi just brought over a shitton of eggs the other day. "How did you even get here?"

Naruto inclines his back in a curt nod towards a red car sitting at the curb. "Tenten drove me."

Ah. The girl from Gai's jujutsu class. Kakashi knows for a fact that she and Naruto don't get along. "How'd you get her to agree to that?"

"I told her I'd set her up with Fu." He says with a shrug.

"Fu?" Kakashi doesn't recognize the name.

"She's new to the dojo," Naruto explains. "She's cool. She's got blue hair."

"Ok," Kakashi turns away, walking towards the chicken coop. He has to check their feed anyway. "So, why are you really here?"

Naruto trails behind him, petting all the dogs as they raise from their resting spots and clamor to meet him. 

“I wanna know what your problem is.” 

Kakashi turns to him with a neutral expression. “Excuse me?”

Naruto scowls at him, chin up, like a challenge. “You and Iruka got into a fight. And then you didn’t come over the other day. He was really worried, ya know.”

“Did he say this to you?” Kakashi questions, and then turns back towards the coop.

“Well, no,” Naruto mumbles, dropping his head. He kicks at the dirt on the ground with his jelly sandals. His socks are yellow and have little red Hello Kitty bows printed on them. “But I could tell.”

“Hm,” Kakashi nods. "Perhaps this is a conversation best between Iruka and I."

"I'm part of this family too!" Naruto shouts suddenly, hands balled into fists at his side. Kakashi hides his surprise by deliberately keeping his gaze forward. "I wasn't able to protect Iruka last time but now I can! So if you're planning on hurting him then just leave! Don't fuck around and waste our time ok?!" 

Kakashi turns back to Naruto, looking serious. "I have no intentions to hurt your father, Naruto."

That doesn't calm Naruto down, and his chest rises and falls with deep breaths as he eyes Kakashi suspiciously. 

"Naruto, thank you for watching over him," Kakashi continues before he can start yelling again. "But, I love Iruka, and nothing will keep me from doing so. I'd rather die than hurt him."

Naruto relaxes. "You mean it?"

"Yes," Kakashi answers easily. "More than anything."

"Ok good," Naruto says, voice softening as he drops his defenses. "'Cause he loves you too, ya know."

Kakashi actually smiles at that. "Don't know how I got so lucky."

"Me either," Naruto grumbles, which causes Kakashi to snort.

Kakashi jerks his head towards the car sitting idle at his curb. "Your friend is still waiting. Was there anything else you wanted to say? Another threat, maybe?"

Naruto actually ponders that. "Mmyeah. Actually. There is one more thing…"

Kakashi raises a brow.

Naruto averts his eyes and rubs awkwardly at the back of his neck. "You're like, real weird and freak out all my friends, but, you love Iruka, and he loves you back so, that makes you ok, I guess, or whatever."

"Thank you, Naruto," Kakashi says in response, knowing it's the boy's weird way of offering him his blessing. "I like you too."

"Just stop spying on me alright?" Naruto jabs an accusatory finger in his direction. "I know you told my dad about Kiba."

"Be grateful I didn't tell him about Sai," Kakashi responds.

Naruto's eyes widen. "You wouldn't-"

"Relax," Kakashi says with a small smile. "I won't say anything."

"Well, thanks," Naruto mumbles. He won't meet Kakashi's eyes. "Hey uh, can I use your bathroom before I leave?" 

"Go for it," Kakashi waves him off, then goes back to tending to his chickens.

Naruto runs off into the house, and when he comes back out, he's waving an orange in his hand.

"Hey Kakashi I took this! Thanks! See ya later!!"

Kakashi waves in return, and once Naruto is gone, he smiles to himself before facing his dogs again.

"Ok, who's due for a brushin'?"

Naruto is different in the next few days that follow. It starts with one simple complaint here or there - just the usual whining you would expect from a teenager - but then it becomes constant.

Iruka and Kakashi are sitting on the couch one night. Iruka is leaning against Kakashi's side, who has an arm around Iruka's shoulders and a book in one hand, while Iruka sips on a glass of wine and watches TV. It's been a little over a week since the phone thing, and honestly at this point it has almost completely slipped from Iruka's mind. Other than him skipping dinner Friday there haven't been any other incidents, and after the lavish loving Kakashi gave him the day before while Naruto was out busy with friends, Iruka feels immensely better. Kakashi said he'd tell him when he was ready. It's enough for Iruka right now.

He presses into Kakashi's side more, just getting comfortable and enjoying his warmth, when Naruto comes running out of the bathroom, soaking wet in just a towel and dripping all over the floor.

"We're out of hot water again!" He screams, apparently wanting to make sure the whole neighborhood is aware of his annoyance.

Iruka jolts from his position on the couch and turns to look at him - groans when he sees the puddle beneath his feet.

"Can you not stand there and ruin the floor?!" 

"It's not my fault!" Naruto argues back, clutching at his towel around his waist as he heads back to his room with a grumble. "You can't take a shower longer than 5 minutes in this place, ya know!"

"You don't need more than 5 minutes!" Iruka yells at him, before slumping back against Kakashi. He takes a gulp of his wine and mumbles to himself. "What does he think this is, a spa?"

"Hm," Kakashi hums without taking his eyes off his book. "The water heater does seem to be a bit of a problem."

"No," Iruka says, short and curt. "It works fine."

"If you say so," Kakashi replies. He sounds unconvinced. 

"I do say so," Iruka huffs. "And he's gonna have to learn to deal because replacing a water heater is too expensive. Plus, cold water is good for your skin."

"Ah," Kakashi says. "Is that your secret to staying so beautiful?"

Iruka snorts into his wine glass. "Are you reading one of those terrible books again?"

Kakashi turns the book to show him the cover. There is a man with flowing long hair and an open white blouse on it. A woman is thrown at his feet, hands clutching at his jean covered thighs.

"It's the sequel," Kakashi says, like Iruka should know how important that is. "Roman swore he'd leave her after she broke his heart last time, but now that they have to work together to save his partner Dean I think they may get back together."

"Really? No way." Iruka says with an over dramatic gasp.

Kakashi is unphased by his teasing. "I'm hoping they have a threesome. These things always could be a little gayer."

Iruka coughs around a sip of wine. "Why am I surprised you're only in it for the men."

Kakashi shrugs. "I don't know. I mean, it's clear why I was attracted to you in the first place, right?"

Iruka looks at him in confusion, eyes shifting between Kakashi's face and the book. Then it hits him. The main character on the cover. Dark tan skin, long brown hair, abs.

"You're fucking joking right now right?" Iruka says in disbelief.

Kakashi doesn't respond, and instead just goes back to reading, but Iruka doesn't miss the slight blush that rises on his pale cheeks. Iruka briefly wonders if maybe he should invest in a white blouse.

It's not even a day later when Naruto drags his dirty laundry bag into the kitchen, overflowing with contents. Kurama follows behind him and carries a dropped sock in his mouth.

"This is such a pain, ya know." He grumbles as he throws the bag by the door.

"Maybe if you washed your clothes more than once a month it wouldn't be such a pain , you know?" Iruka says back from his spot at the kitchen table.

Kakashi takes a treat from the counter and gives it to Kurama in exchange for the sock. He tosses it to Naruto, who snatches it out of the air with a sneer on his face.

"Maybe if we had an actual washer and dryer and we didn't have to go to the laundry mat then I would!" He says back.

Iruka gives him a look of astonishment, surprised to hear him complain like this. There isn't a washer and dryer unit in his condo. It has never been an issue before.

"What's your problem?" Iruka barks. "You're too good for the laundry mat now?"

Iruka never thought Naruto of all people, who still at this age plays in dirt looking for weird bugs, would complain about something so trivial. Not to mention, it wasn't even a month ago that Iruka accidentally shrunk one of his favorite shirts, and Naruto was elated because, "now I can wear it like a crop top!" Since when did he care so much about laundry.

"I'm just saying!" Is all Naruto says back before storming out of the room.

Iruka looks to Kakashi - shock still on his face.

Kakashi shrugs where he stands at the kitchen sink, then jumps when he turns the faucet and water sprays in his face.

"Oh not again!"

The last straw is a week later. Iruka and Kakashi are just getting home from their weekly jujutsu training. Kakashi agreed to teach Iruka a few years ago, but only after Iruka had promised to let Kakashi monitor his work outs. He has daily plans set in place and sticks to them - nothing less and nothing more - so he doesn't push himself to the point of exhaustion and pain each time. It was a long process - and he still struggles with it - but the balance of strength and mental focus that comes with jujutsu has helped. 

They're in the kitchen, and Iruka is chugging a water bottle while Kakashi sticks his head in the fridge - for food or to cool down Iruka doesn't know - when Naruto comes barging into the kitchen with a wild looking, dirty, grey cat in his arms.

"Look!" He yells, proud, only to yelp in pain a second later when the thing claws at his chest. 

"Naruto!" Iruka shouts in surprise, quickly putting the bottle down and taking a step towards him, stopping short at the sound of the cat's hiss. "What are you doing with a cat?"

Naruto holds the cat at arm's length, still smiling bright despite his wounds. "I found her! I want to name her Matatabi!"

"You what?" Iruka asks, frustrated. "You're not planning on keeping that thing are you?"

Naruto pouts. "Why not?"

Iruka sighs. "Naruto, we already have a dog and you have too many pets as it is. I mean something small is one thing, but a cat?"

The cat meows in Naruto's grip, seemingly calm now. Iruka tries not to find it cute.

"But she looks malnourished. She was rummaging in garbage. I can't leave her."

"Have Kakashi take her to the shelter," Iruka says, gesturing to his boyfriend.

Naruto looks to Kakashi with a frown. "No, I want to keep her."

"No, Naruto," Iruka says sadly. 

"But why!" Naruto pushes. "You know I can take care of her! I don't see the big deal!"

"I know you can, it isn't that," Iruka says, feeling dejected and ashamed to admit. "I know you can take care of her, but someone has to pay for her too. Plus, there's no room. Where would we even put a litter box? Your room smells bad enough."

"So?" Naruto hisses, bitter. "Kakashi has like a million dogs. Why can't I have a cat?"

Iruka shakes his head. "This isn't Kakashi's house. We don't have that kind of room here."

"She can stay at my house," Kakashi offers. "Not sure how the dogs will feel. Or the chickens really. Cats and birds don't always get along do they?"

"See Iruka," Naruto looks at him with big wide pleading eyes. "She has to stay here."

Iruka takes a deep breath, he hates being the bad guy. "Naruto…"

A scowl forms on Naruto's face. "Fine. Whatever. I'll take her to the shelter tomorrow. Can I at least keep her here for the night? Or is that a problem too?"

"Naruto!" Iruka scolds. Naruto doesn't wait for him to say anymore, and stalks out the room with the cat still squirming in his grip.

Iruka throws his hands up in exasperation, looking at Kakashi with a dumbfounded expression. "I have to go talk to him. He's been out of control recently."

Kakashi gives him a sympathetic look. "Good luck."

Iruka storms after Naruto, heading straight to his room and ready to explode, when he walks in on Naruto kneeling on the ground picking up the remains of a potted plant. The cat is sitting smug on the window sill.

"Naruto-" Iruka starts.

"Iruka, I-I'm sorry- I'll take care of it, ok?" He scoops up some dirt in his hand and gathers shards of the broken pottery in the other. He looks so pathetic that Iruka's heart can't help but melt.

He sighs, not even believing he is about to say this. "Naruto you can keep the cat."

Naruto looks at him with a beaming smile. "Really?!"

"Yes," he eyes the cat's swishing tail from where it's perched, then looks back sternly at Naruto. "But you gotta cut it out with all this complaining. I didn't raise you to be a brat, alright?"

Naruto gives him an exaggerated nod. "Mhm! I think it's working, so I won't have to for much longer anyway."

Iruka isn't even sure he heard him correctly, not understanding what he could possibly mean by that. "What?"

Naruto stands up, dirt falls through his fingers as he does but he ignores it. "You're like the greatest Dad ever Iruka, and you deserve really nice things, ya know."

The irony of Naruto saying this while he spills dirt all over his floor is not lost on him. "What?" He asks again.

Naruto puts the broken pieces of pottery on his desk and brushes his hands off on his yellow pants. He's wearing an oversized black button up with a flame print on it, and a bulky silver chain around his neck - a matching chain dangles from his hip. He's replaced his usual jelly sandals with neon green combat boots. 

"I was just thinking," he explains. "Maybe if I complained enough Kakashi would notice and we could move out of the condo."

"What?!" Iruka says for the third time, this time with a yell. He looks back to the door to make sure Kakashi isn't nearby, and then turns back to Naruto with a hushed voice. "You're trying to manipulate Kakashi into buying me a house?"

Naruto shrugs. "Well, when you say it like that-"

"No, Naruto," Iruka cuts him off, and he can't even hide how infuriated he is. "You can't do that. That's wrong. Be grateful for what you have! I worked hard to get the condo for us and there is nothing wrong with it! You can't trick people into giving you things!"

"Kakashi's selling his house!" Naruto yells abruptly - cutting him off.

It's like a punch to the gut, and Iruka freezes - shocked. He can't even believe the words he just heard, and he let's them wash over him, wave after unsettling wave as they repeat over and over again in his head until he feels like he is drowning. Kakashi is leaving. Iruka shakes his head, absolute disbelief shaking through him. Fear shaking through him. Kakashi is leaving. This is what he had to tell him. He's leaving.

"He really loves you, Dad."

Iruka's eyes snap open. He didn't even realize he had shut them - his world being torn out from under his feet actually making him honest to god lightheaded.

When he does open his eyes though, Naruto is looking back at him calmly - a soft smile gracing his features. "He told me and...I think he means it. He's not leaving."

All the anger and anxiety drains out of Iruka at once, the words sending a shockwave through his body. He really loves you. Hearing Naruto say it so plainly - so genuine, and full of his own love in return - makes it feel ten times more real. It is real. This is real. He’s not leaving. If he isn’t leaving then, why would he be selling his house? Oh. Oh.

Iruka stares back at him dumbly as his brain catches up - the whiplash of emotions making him feel dizzy all over again. "How do you know this?"

"Well, I kinda," Naruto lets out a nervous chuckle. "I kinda went over to his house and I was just gonna use the bathroom I swear, but then I was hungry, so I went into the kitchen, and there were a bunch of papers sitting out, and it said listing contract and Sakura's mom is a real estate agent so she said-"

Iruka struggles to listen to his rambling. "Wait when did this happen? Why were you at Kakashi's?"

"He knew I was there, I didn't, like, sneak in or anything!" Naruto defends himself quickly. "I was annoyed when I saw he upset you the other week...so I went to talk to him."

"You what?!" Iruka barks, once again taken off guard - not believing that Naruto actually would do something like that. Well, actually...

"I had to be sure he wasn't going to hurt you!" Naruto shouts back.

Again, the flare of anger Iruka had felt melts away instantly. Of course. Naruto was just trying to protect him - protect him from that pain they both have felt far too many times in this lifetime already. 

"C'mere," Iruka holds out a hand, and Naruto blinks at it in confusion, before reaching out and grabbing it tentatively.

Iruka pulls him forward into a hug, and he squeezes him tight before whispering into his hair. "Thank you, Naruto."

He means it, with all his heart. He's so lucky to have him, because no matter what happens, he will never be alone again. It’s the most comforting feeling in the world.

"It's not a big deal," Naruto grumbles against his chest, clearly embarrassed by the sudden affection.

Iruka has mercy on him and frees him from his vice grip. He ruffles his hair. "It is though. I love you. Even if your way of helping is to drive me crazy."

"Yeah well," Naruto ducks his head. "It's Kakashi's fault. I think he's afraid to tell you, so I just thought I'd give you guys a little push, ya know." 

Iruka laughs. He supposes this time it is actually Kakashi's fault. "I appreciate it Naruto, but you don't have to do that, ok?"

"Ok," Naruto says, then pauses. "Um, Iruka?"

Iruka looks at him curiously, waiting for him to continue.

"I just want you to know," Naruto mumbles. "That I love you, and you love him, and I know he loves you too, so, like, it'd be cool, to actually live together, if it'd make you happy, 'cause you deserve to be happy, ya know?"

Iruka can't fight the grin from spreading on his face. "Well, thank you for your blessing."

“Also, it would be cool to have a bigger room,” Naruto says, a huge grin blooming on his face as well.

Iruka rolls his eyes, but he’s still smiling. “That’s really all you care about, huh?”

Naruto shakes his head, looking serious. “No, I care about the dogs too.”

Iruka is about to retort when there’s a shatter - another pot knocked off the window sill.

“Matatabi! No!” Naruto wails. He reaches for the cat, only for it to hiss at him. “You have to be nice to plants! They have feelings too, ya know!”

Iruka watches him fondly - feeling warmth spread inside his chest - before quietly walking away, and just accepting that a cat from hell is now part of their family too. 

Their Family.

When Iruka walks back into the kitchen, Kakashi is standing at the island counter with three eggs in each hand.

"I know you don't like breakfast for dinner," he says without even looking up. "But we have so many eggs we gotta use them. I'm thinking quiche maybe? What'dya think?"

Iruka looks at him from across the room, taking in the image he has seen so many times before - Kakashi, in his kitchen, cooking dinner for him and his son. He’s wearing an apron over his black tank top. It’s pink and has little white hearts all over it with a white ruffle trim. Naruto bought it for him on his birthday years ago, as retaliation for when Kakashi bought him a t-shirt that said “ My favorite men are Ramen" the year after he came out.  

It is so ordinary, but so ordinarily them that Iruka feels at peace just by looking at him. It’s home. This is home. This is what he wants, no matter where it is, he wants this. In this house, in Kakashi’s house, in a new house they look for and buy together. He wants this. He loves Kakashi so much. Naruto does too, even if he can’t admit it.

“I think,” Iruka takes a deep breath. “We should get married.”

Kakashi’s head shoots up so fast Iruka’s surprised it didn’t pop right off. An egg falls from his hand and cracks on the counter.

“What?” He stares at Iruka with wide eyes, shocked.

Iruka doubles down. “I think we should get married.”

“U-uh, I-I mean-uh?” Kakashi stutters. His face is as red as Iruka’s ever seen it, even making his apron look pale . He scrambles to place the eggs down on the counter, then when they threaten to roll off the edge he quickly grabs them and pushes them together to keep them still. His hand accidentally slips into the yolk of the previously broken egg and he curses before wiping it unthinkingly against his chest. Iruka has never seen him in such a frenzy before, and it is adorable.

He’s too distracted to notice Iruka has moved right beside him, and Iruka reaches out to take hold of his arms, stopping their frantic movements.

Iruka guides him into facing him, and he sees the other man swallow hard as his eyes flick rapidly over Iruka’s face.

Iruka smiles, and this time decides to make it count - for real. “Marry me?”

He doesn’t give him a chance to answer, and instead grabs Kakashi’s face to bring him in for a kiss. He kisses him long and deep, putting as much love into it as he can - putting his whole soul into it - so Kakashi knows how serious he is, because he is serious, because he loves him and he wants to spend the rest of his life with him.

When they pull away, they are both breathless and panting for air. Iruka licks his lips, eyeing Kakashi’s own that are slick with spit and swollen red. God, he wants to keep them that color forever, wants to kiss him so much that it just sticks. Forever imprinted with Iruka’s desire.

“I-,” Iruka clears his throat, finally finding his voice after he catches his breath. “I don’t have a ring or anything, but-”

Kakashi’s face suddenly lights up. His eyes go wide once more and his eyebrows shoot up disappearing under his messy bangs. He pulls away from Iruka’s grip.

“Wha-” Iruka protests in confusion.

“Wait,” Kakashi says hurriedly as he backs away. He holds his hands out and motions for Iruka to stay. “Wait here - I’ll be right back, I promise. I have to-”

He turns away then, rushing over to the door as Iruka stands there dumbfounded. Kakashi fights with the doorknob as he looks back for a brief second - a fraziled expression on his face.

“There’s something in my car - hold on - I’ll be right back!” And then he’s out the door.

“Um,” Iruka’s arms hang limp at his sides. What just happened? Did he really just ask Kakashi to marry him, and then did Kakashi really just leave?!

Not even a minute later and Kakashi is bursting back through the door, breathing heavy like he ran the distance to his car and back. The ties from his apron have come undone, and it hangs loosely around his neck, looking goofy with his thick arms on display in just his tank top. In his hand is a navy blue folder. He rushes over to Iruka and presents it to him.

“I was- I was waiting to tell you,” his eyes flick between Iruka and the folder in his hands rapidly - his face still pink. He shoves it against Iruka’s chest. “Here- look.”

Iruka looks at him curiously and takes it from his hands. Tentatively, he opens the folder. There are a bunch of papers inside, the one on top consisting of rows with numbers. Kakashi’s name written above it.

“Is this?” Iruka squints his eyes. “Is this a credit report?”

Kakashi nods. “I’ve been working really hard. I even had Yamato help me. See look-”

Yamato, his friend from work, who Iruka always thought was a little on the square side - even for him. Kakashi points down to the paper, then looks at Iruka with a sheepish smile.

“It’s pretty good right? It was really bad for a while, you know, I didn’t have any money when I was younger and I wasn’t very good with it when I did have it so-”

“Why?” Iruka asks slowly, interrupting him. “Why are you showing me this?”

Kakashi holds his gaze, and takes a nervous breath. “I’m selling my house.”

“I know,” Iruka says, not bothering to hide it.

Kakashi’s mouth hangs open dumbly. “What? How?”

“Naruto told me,” Iruka tells him, then closes the folder and hands it back.

Iruka can see as the wheels turn in Kakashi’s mind. “Ah, that brat. Ruining my surprise.”

“What surprise, exactly?” Iruka questions him with a tilt of his head. The house, the credit report. Iruka thinks he knows, but he wants to hear Kakashi say it.

“You beat me to it,” Kakashi says with a huff of a laugh. “I was gonna ask you to marry me."

Even though Iruka already said those words earlier - marry me - hearing Kakashi say it makes his head swim. His heart pounds in his chest, and his eyes well up with tears while a grin spreads on his face.

“You were gonna sell your house before asking me to marry you?” Iruka can’t help but joke, but it comes out around a choked hiccup as he fights back tears of happiness. “You’re mighty confident.”

“Nah, just hopeful,” Kakashi drops the folder, both of them not even bothering to care where it lands, and pulls Iruka close to him. He wraps his arms around his waist and rests his forehead against Iruka’s. "I love you so much, and I want to prove it to you, if you’ll let me.”

Iruka laughs, recalling the very first conversation they ever had. Kakashi has been proving it to him ever since.

“Ok,” He sniffs, nodding as he holds onto Kakashi tightly.

“Ok,” Kakashi repeats with a smile, and places a kiss on the bridge of his nose. “Then lets get married and get a mortgage and buy a house like the proper old boring couple we are.”

“No,” Iruka shakes his head, but he says it around a fit of laughter. “I’m not marrying you if you’re gonna turn all boring on me.”

“No?” Kakashi smirks. His hands slip down from Iruka’s waist to his ass - gets himself a handful and squeezes . “Gotta keep things interesting for you, huh? I guess I can do that.”

Iruka bites his lip. They’re pressed close together now, and he can’t help but react to the touches. He feels like he is on cloud nine, with Kakashi touching him like this, whispering to him softly, promising a life together full of love. He feels almost hysterical with it, the tears in his eyes threatening to fall at any moment - he’s so happy.

“I love you,” he ends up saying, because there is so much he wants to say but he can’t even think of how to word it all. It all comes down to that anyway. He loves him.

“I love you too,” Kakashi says back, and then they’re kissing again, slow at first and then building into more. Iruka can’t stop smiling into it, and Kakashi keeps breaking away to plant tiny pecks all over his face, down his neck, his chest, and back again. Embarrassing giggles leave Iruka's mouth as he squirms under the touch, but he just doesn't have it in him to care. They're getting married. They're going to buy a home together. This is real.

The moment is ruined when Naruto walks into the room with a loud groan.

"Ah, seriously you guys?!" He shouts, making a show of shielding his eyes.

"Hey!" Iruka shoots back. Kakashi doesn't release his hold, and continues to kiss at his neck despite Naruto's protests. "You don't get to talk ok? We're even now!"

"Ugh, fine whatever," Naruto rolls his eyes. "Can you at least stop making out long enough to make dinner? ‘M hungry."

Kakashi picks his head up then, and jerks it towards his duffle bag by the door. "I got 40 bucks in my wallet, why don't you take it and go out to eat? Actually, stay out. You got friends right? Buy them dinner and then don't come back til tomorrow."

Iruka smacks at his chest. "Kakashi-"

"Wait really?!" Naruto perks up, already heading to Kakashi's bag to riffle through it. "Hey, can I take the car too?"

"Sure, whatever," Kakashi answers, directing his attention back to Iruka. 

"Oh my god," Iruka laughs in disbelief, not fighting against it anymore.

Naruto pulls the keys from his bag triumphantly, no longer phased by their PDA. "Alright! Thanks Kakashi!"

He heads to the door, but not before stopping and throwing them a taunting smirk. "If you guys need lube or anything I got some in my desk-"

"Leave!" Iruka yells, slapping a hand to his forehead, mortified. Naruto cackles as he leaves, slamming the door behind him. "Jheeze, that kid - ah-!"

The second Naruto is gone, Kakashi picks Iruka up and plops him down on the counter. Iruka scrambles to get his hands around his neck, and then squawks when his ass hits the surface - right on top of the eggs.

"Kakashi!" Iruka groans, feeling them crunch beneath him and the egg yolk seeping through his joggers.

"Oh shit," Kakashi laughs. "Sorry, fuck."

Iruka continues to pout, upset by the mess. Kakashi is standing between his knees, and his hands are resting on his hips, keeping him in place. He wacks Kakashi up the side of his head.

"I said sorry!" He's still laughing. "Chill, they're gonna come off anyway."

"Oh are they?" Iruka says with heavy sarcasm. "I don't know about that anymore!"

"Aw baby," Kakashi coos, throwing in the pet name just to be an ass. A hand glides along Iruka's waistband, and he tugs at it playfully with a finger. "C'mon, let me clean you up then, ok?"

He leans forward as he says it, voice dropping low and sending a shiver up Iruka's spine. His breath ghosts over Iruka's lips, and his tongue peeks out of his mouth to taunt Iruka with a small barely there lick.

Iruka tries to meet him the rest of the way - mouth open and eyes shut - only for Kakashi to pull back. His eyes snap open in frustration.

"Nuh-uh," Kakashi teases with a shake of his head. "If that's what you want you gotta do something for me first."

"What?" Iruka asks, ready to do anything and everything for the man standing in front of him, the man he loves more than anything - the man who still somehow manages to look sexy while wearing a pink frilly apron.

Kakashi's face softens, humor suddenly gone - replaced with a tender sincerity. "Ask me again."

"Wha-" Iruka stops, the weight of the request hitting him suddenly. Oh.  

He moves his hands from behind Kakashi's neck forward, cupping his face once more and gently stroking his cheek with a thumb. He can feel Kakashi's jaw flex under his palm as he clenches with a tense swallow, looking at Iruka with pleading, eager eyes - wide, hopeful, and nervous.

"Will you marry me?" Iruka says with a whisper.

"Yes," Kakashi answers, and finally kisses him.

Later - when the condo is full of boxes ready to be loaded into a truck and sent off to their new house - Iruka comes home to see Naruto sitting outside on their bench. He isn't alone.

The boy sitting with him has black choppy hair, and is draped in all black as well - black hoodie, black jeans, black converse sneakers. He recognizes him instantly.

"Sasuke," Iruka says as he approaches them, a huge grin on his face. "Haven't seen you in a while."

Sasuke looks up at him, then quickly averts his eyes, almost like he's ashamed. "Hi Iruka-sensei."

They're sitting at opposite ends of the bench -  an empty gap left between them - and Naruto has a long stick in his hand that he absentmindedly jabs into the unlit fire pit, disrupting the old burnt ashes there. 

"Will you boys be staying for dinner?" Iruka asks. He hasn't seen Sasuke in well over two years, but before his and Naruto's fallout, he used to stay over quite a bit. It feels natural to ask, despite the lost time.

Naruto looks to the other boy, giving him a chance to answer himself.

Sasuke shrugs, trying to look nonchalant even with a pink blush on his face. "Sure."

When Naruto turns back to Iruka, he also has a huge grin on his face. "Yeah. Thanks, Dad."