- Ideal AU where everyone is alive (except Danzo cuz fuck that guy and i dont mean literally); I just want them all to be happy ffs

- AU where Shisui actually tries to make a move lmao

- ohmykami, happy birthday Shisui my fave Uchiha (Oct. 19) (i forgot to post it here in wattpad, hence my long absence but im not slacking sksks i was just busy simping)

- Summary: The reason why Shisui is so fast is because his legs are ripped from jumping to conclusions.

- Warnings: None, other than Shisui's dumbassery

- Word count: 7,704

~*~*~

"Take It Slow"

You really don't like escort missions-- a fact Shisui knows by heart, with how often you complain about it whenever you get saddled in one.

"Would you like to dance?"

"No."

"A-ah, maybe another time."

Shisui bit back a snicker at your frank rejection towards your ninth dance offer, as you only sat idly by your table, continuing to watch over the extravagant party, akin to a hidden spider looking around for potential threats. He may not be able to hear the conversation that just occurred from where he was, but he could still read your lips with his sharp vision within the bright room, and easily predicted what the small chat was about.

Even when your table was located at the furthest corner of the huge castle ballroom, you were still able to garner attention from some noble men like flies to honey, to which you remained consistently uninterested to.

Persistence can only be admirable if you're not at the receiving end of it, and with the Uchiha charm you've inherited, the young bachelors' persistence easily became stubbornness, and eventually, an annoyance (Obito would've had a field day kicking their pompous asses for flirting with his sister if he were here).

The curly-haired teen can see why you don't like escort missions, as it usually entails clients and company (both young and old) thinking they have a chance with you. The only reason why Shisui wasn't bombarded with dance invites from noble women, himself, is because it's considered a faux pas, as it is more preferable for a gentleman to invite them instead. So technically, he's saved by societal standards.

The Uchiha boy sighed, his legs starting to ache from standing and walking around for hours, as he was currently occupying the opposite corner of your side to subtly keep watch over the party. He may be the current look out, but his sight kept drifting back to your direction every after a few minutes, longing to just sit with you and enjoy the celebration (focus, Shisui).

Sadly, he has to watch over the party in different angles, until his shift is over (sticking to walls and ceilings is unfortunately not allowed even though it would make his job easier, because it's considered 'improper' and 'unsettling' for non-shinobi guests. Shisui would like to argue that it's better to be uncomfortable than dead).

This mission is unofficial in papers, but is still considered a mission nonetheless.

All newly-promoted jounins were invited for the celebration of the birth of the Fire Daimyo's grandson; a joint celebration of sorts. Your numbers were only a handful, really, as jounin promotions are harder to come by than chuunin; it was only you, him, Anko, and two other Konoha shinobi he's newly acquainted with, Hayate and Genma. All of you attended as Konohagakure's representatives and on the Yondaime's behalf. Technically, you were all off-duty, as you attended as guests, not as hired bodyguards. That role falls unto the daimyo's trusty samurais.

But of course, Shisui (and the rest of you) knew that the invitation was just the daimyo's underhanded tactic to hire extra protection, but without the payment. Instead, it was "Konoha's honor" to be present at the grand celebration. With your village wanting to suck up to its main provider, you all came without (audible) complaints. Obviously, Konohagakure wants to impress the daimyo by taking initiative, despite not being asked to be additional security, and the daimyo expected this. Now, the Fire Daimyo has free jounins, albeit newly promoted.

It was only for a day, Shisui placated to all of you before arriving to the venue.

Kami, Shisui hates political plays, especially when he's directly involved in it.

Deciding that the coast is clear for his shift, the Uchiha walked back to his assigned table-Konoha's table. He was to switch shift with the Genma guy to keep watch, and then enjoy the festivities with you. Your shift was the first, with his being the fourth; you're now both relieved from your duties, which means he can hang out freely with you.

Nearing the circular dinner table, Shisui effortlessly dodged dancing people left and right, their cheers and laughter being drowned out by the loud, festive music.

Soon enough, he was near enough to hear your conversation with Anko. Maybe it was curiosity, or maybe it was his shinobi tick, but either way, he paused his steps and smoothly proceeded to hide behind a nearby pillar from your view to eavesdrop.

"Damn, girl, you're cold! Haha!" The purple-haired kunoichi slapped your shoulder in good humor, as you only shrugged her hand. "That was like, your tenth, right? Eleventh? None were your type, huh. Why not lead them to me, instead? C'mon, help me out. Some of them were cute,"

"Anko, we need to stay professional. We can't be in a relationship with potential future clients," You chided, picking a finger food of your choice from your plate (you can't help but sniff it and nibble on it to check for poison, as it's of shinobi habit). "Also, our jounin uniforms are not suited for dancing. We'll stand-out too much and it looks weird,"

"She's right. The aristocrats and noble families present here could and would pay for our services in the near future, especially with the growing tension between countries that's pointing to possible assassinations. Not to mention local rivalries are a thing, and we can't have them think that our village has bias. We can't compromise our missions by forming intimate relationships with any them," Hayate agreed, before covering up a cough.

"You only say that because you're already in a relationship with that Yugao chick. You can't understand our desperation," The snake summoner retorted.

"Our desperation?" You repeated incredulously, a brow raised at Anko's claim.

"So you admit you're desperate?" Genma joined in the conversation, his senbon perking up along with the corners of his mouth.

"Shut the fuck up." You snickered at Anko's indignant reply.

"In any case, I won't forbid you looking for a potential partner, as long as it's not with a noble man in this party," You said as a matter of fact, which she only sniffed at. "Though, I do encourage flirting with the use of empty promises to entice them into hiring Konoha's services,"

"Oh get that Uchiha stick out of your ass, it doesn't suit you. That Itachi is bad influence," Anko chastised, hitting your arm. "It's our day too! We got promoted!"

"Yes, and this is a mission-our first mission as jounins," Reminding Anko of your responsibilities did nothing to deter her from convincing you to bend to her mischief. "Also, stop hitting me,"

"I hate it when you're in duty-mode," She huffed. "Officially, we're off-duty. So go dance! Enjoy some fancy gourmet food! Live!" She urged dramatically, shaking your shoulders, as you only pushed her hands off.

"I already am enjoying the 'fancy gourmet food'," You pointed out, gesturing to your half-empty plate. "And since I'm sitting here, breathing and eating, it's safe to say I'm living. Also you should try dishes other than dango. We already have those at home,"

"So it's just the dance thing, huh?" She ignored your last comment. "What? Saving that dance for someone special?" She teased, wiggling her eyebrows.

"Nice try, but you can't bait me to that kind of conversation," You smirked, as Anko only scowled for being transparent of her intentions to you.

"Damn it."

With Anko's muttered curse as the signal of the end of your conversation, Shisui finally showed himself to the Konoha table, greeting his seated comrades with a lazy wave and smile.

Halting his short conversation with Hayate, Genma complied with the wordless instruction that it was his turn to patrol, thus he got off his seat and walked away.

It was best to only have one look out, Shisui explained to them earlier. Multiple shinobi prowling around would only make the samurais more uneasy and suspicious of them, as they're already prejudiced against the 'dishonorable' arts of shinobi.

Despite the daimyo having a strict 'NO ANIMALS' policy for the party, the rule was rather lenient towards the samurais' high horses.

Amused with his latter thought, Shisui then took the unoccupied seat on your left. However, his hidden amusement then transitioned into anxiety when a certain thought came to mind.

Whenever the Fire Daimyo arranges a celebration, Shisui noticed that there's a pattern that's never been broken: opening ceremony, stage performance, gourmet meal, dance and music, and finally, closing fireworks.

It's the dance and music portion that Shisui had set his focus on-there's the fun music for friends and then there's the slow music for, well... intimate partners.

Knowing this weeks prior the actual event, Shisui actually studied and learned how to ballroom dance in hopes to, in his mind, impress you. He'll invite you to dance, show off a bit (because he tends to be extra), and then, after the dance, the closing fireworks... when he will finally confess.

He thinks it's a good confession plan...

Or not-

Shoot, what if he missteps and embarrasses himself mid-dance? No, no, he practiced; he's prepared. But what if you reject him? Would your friendship still be the same afterwards?

If he gets rejected, maybe he can say he lost a bet and Itachi dared him to ask you out-no, you won't believe that! Itachi isn't like that.

... Maybe Sasuke dared him? Agh, who is he kidding?! Everyone knows Sasuke is rooting for Itachi to get together with you because he wants an older sister (damn that kid and his older sibling complex).

Wait, what if you really have feelings for Itachi because Sasuke conditioned you?! Holy shit, Shisui knows very well that Sasuke doesn't need the sharingan to manipulate you to his whims. What if you already liked someone else?!

Oh man, he didn't think of the factors outside you and him!

Kami, he's overthinking this with how fast his heart is beating right now, and he hasn't even started with the plan yet!

"-sui! Shisui!" Feeling someone suddenly shake his shoulder, his body jerked in place, obviously startled.

His automatic response whenever someone would call for his attention was a simple 'Yes?', or perhaps a common greeting like 'Hi' or 'Hello'. However, due to his panic, his brain juggled his common sense, and of course his mouth chose to instinctively move on its own.

"Yes! Hi! Hello!" He yelped, his back straight in attention.

Fortunately, the boisterous party was too loud for his exclamation to be heard by everybody in the room. Unfortunately, everyone present in the Konoha-assigned table heard him loud and clear (with some surrounding guests looking at him quizzically).

Hayate coughed (the asshole is smiling in his glass of water, and he doesn't even know him that well).

Anko laughed unabashedly.

And you looked at him with a barely-concealed amused grin.

Fuck.

He felt his cheeks and ears redden in embarrassment, but with little dignity he had left, he didn't break eye-contact, pretending as if he didn't just do something to shatter his pride.

"Sorry, but you were just staring at your plate. I asked if you were gonna eat your salmon sashimi," You repeated, a chuckle threatening to escape your lips. His discomfort was leaking from his confident facade.

"Um, no, go ahead-you can have it," He managed to quickly utter out with a forced smile, pushing his plate to your direction, as he did his best to naturally turn his face away to hide his uncomfortably warm face.

So much for being a newly-promoted jounin.

"Pfft, what were you thinking to have you so off-guard like that?" You inquired curiously, before taking a bite of the sashimi he gave you.

Hesitatingly, he looked back at you to continue on the conversation, despite his mind telling him to keep quiet to cease his embarrassment.

"Thinking of a, uh, new jutsu," He lied, internally cursing at himself for sounding unsure. He usually knows what to say and how to smoothly deliver it, and yet when it comes to you, it's like all common sense leaves him. It's driving him nuts!

Shisui Uchiha truly is a wonder, but the wonder is how he managed to hide his feelings for you since the age of nine years old. He's fifteen now.

"Oh, really? What's its base concept?" You asked, your amusement replaced with intrigue for the topic. He felt his face grow warmer.

"Ah, it has something to do with," Dancing with you, his mind supplied uselessly. "... spinning." He finished lamely, his hand absent-mindedly finding its way to his curly locks, as his ears continued burning.

"Hm? You mean like the rasengan? I'm actually working on a similar concept, so that it would be applicable to my fire affinity, like how Kakashi invented the chidori with his lightning affinity," You then got lost explaining the technicalities of performing different chakra control exercises, along with multiple theories that has something to do with combining two chakra affinities in one jutsu. Needless to say, Shisui was thankful that you were distracted enough on your own, as it gave him the time to recover his normal thought process and for his panic to subside.

However, he can't say the same for the table's two other occupants.

Anko was looking at you and him back-and-forth, before making the most mischievous expression she ever mustered on her face, as Hayate only shook his head with fondness.

All these years, Shisui was so good at hiding his feelings, yet one mishap was enough to topple his tower of strenuous efforts to not be obvious. Kami, Itachi wasn't kidding when he said that he was a kunai for you to freely wield.

He was utterly, thoroughly, whipped.

In his defense, his feelings were not unfounded, and he can write a hundred scrolls worth of reasons why.

Just when he was about to list those reasons to (stupidly) justify his infatuation to himself, the once well-lit room dimmed and the lively music slowed. Couples, left and right, started occupying the dance floor, and his anxious thoughts returned back ten-fold at realization of what's about to happen, or rather, what's happening.

Oh no.

As if having foreknowledge of what's about to come, Anko subtly smirked at Shisui's direction, then stood from her seat, locking her arm with Hayate's and pulling him with her. Hayate tried his best to escape the snake summoner's grasp, but alas her grip was iron-tight. To remove himself from Anko's hold is to amputate his own arm, and he's having a mental debate if it's worth it.

"Y'know what? Let's invite some people to dance!" The kunoichi asserted, before dragging her unwilling company to the middle of the room.

"Hey, you should follow proper etiquette, it's--"

"Society can go fuck itself, 'cause it can't stop me!"

And then, the duo lost themselves in the crowd, as you only shook your head in exasperation towards Anko's antics. It's obvious that you were mentally questioning yourself on why you even bothered.

Okay, this is it, Shisui coached to himself, steeling his resolve.

It's not that drastic. He's just gonna ask you to a dance, and depending on how you react during the dance (preferably flushed or at awe) is when he would decide if he will confess or not afterwards.

Sounds easy enough. Anko gave him an opening, and he will take it.

You're friends-- best friends, even. What's the worst that could happen?

Determinedly looking at you, Shisui schooled his expression into one of ease with a smile, before asking his dreaded question, at last.

"Wanna dance?"

You blinked at him, as if surprised of the idea that Shunshin no Shisui would want to dance a slow dance. Shisui guessed that his invite came out of nowhere; so, it was understandable that you were caught off-guard. Still, you shouldn't be that surprised.

A moment passed and then your astonishment morphed into an expression Shisui can't decipher, and that's a bad sign because he can usually read you, shoot, what do you--

"Sorry, Shisui, next time," You finally replied with a small smile, snapping him out of his inner turmoil.

Eventually, he processed what you just said, and all the tension he felt prior left him.

"Yeah, okay." He smoothly responded back, his despondence being masked with the forced upturning of his lips. If he wasn't a ninja that trains to fake facial expressions daily, his attempt of a smile would've looked pathetic.

That's that, he concluded to himself. At least, he tried. The pressure of being rejected was no longer there, and instead, was replaced with disappointment. He doesn't know which feeling he'd rather prefer.

'Next time', you said, but Shisui acknowledges that that's a soft rejection reserved only for a friend. You probably saw through him and knew what he was up to; so, it was of your merciful nature to let him down gently, before he could even reach far in his progress and waste effort.

Okay, so he might be wrong on that assumption, but while it's still not too late, he shouldn't delude himself.

Damn, is this how Sasuke feels whenever Itachi tells him 'next time'? Shisui didn't think he would sympathize with the kid who would deny him rights to enter the clan heir's household.

Resisting a sigh from escaping his lips, he inanely spun his glass of water, his mind numbly enraptured by the fluid motion of the clear liquid.

The party went smoothly for the rest of the night. As far as everyone was concerned, there were no assassination attempts nor threats to disrupt the cheery celebration.

However, despite not entering any fights, Shisui felt defeated.

~*~*~

Shisui knows he's been out of himself lately, with how often distracted he is on the way back to Konohagakure. Whenever he's distracted, the only telltale sign of it is his slower speed, but with his above-average speed, his compromised performance is not that different from an average shinobi's. Thus, nothing about his conduct seemed off. It's the only explanation why no one in the squad noticed his constantly pre-occupied mind.

Except for, of course, you.

While preparing to camp for the night, you were the only one who privately confronted him about his dispirited demeanor, which he just reassured you with a smile that doesn't reach his eyes. It seemed that this action only further worried you, but thankfully, you did not press on.

The curly-haired teen may be different from the other typical Uchihas, but he is still an Uchiha through and through. While you can decipher a common Uchiha's emotions depending on their monosyllabic responses, you can decipher Shisui's through his smiles. A simple 'hn' can mean a lot of things from a typical Uchiha, depending on its volume and intonation. The same can be said for Shisui's smile, but this time, it depends on how wide it is and how many teeth are showing.

With his smile earlier, Shisui knows that you know he's upset.

You just don't know the reason why, and he hopes you never will. He really doesn't want to go into depth with that discussion, even if it meant closure.

There's a reason why Shisui doesn't just openly flirt with you (like he does with other girls just to tease), and it's not just because you're the object of his affections. When it comes to you, he doesn't want his attempts to be playful; he wants to be genuine. He holds his respect for you in high regards, and if he does recall a memory of him flirting, it's simply just him telling you an honest compliment. You've seen his worst side, and no amount of flattery from him would let you forget it. Though, it doesn't matter anyway, he wants you to see him as is; no facade.

You simply mean too much to him.

He's been dancing around the idea of courting you, and of course, the main reason he hesitated would be the possibility of rejection. Shisui doesn't want your friendship dynamic to change; for you to limit yourself from what you're used to just to consider his feelings.

However, he no longer has to worry about that. He already got your answer-- even if indirect.

I'm okay with this, Shisui told himself. As long as he still has you in his life, he's contented.

Hopping from one tree to another, he can already spot the village walls, and eventually, his squad reached Konohagakure's gates. He made no comments about you boring holes at the back of his head during the travel.

Shisui moved automatically throughout the walk towards the Hokage Tower, and breezed through his written mission report and his individual debriefing with the Yondaime (as squad leader, he comes last).

Just when he finished his mission statement and prepared himself to be dismissed, Shisui was stunned when Minato chose to address his off behavior.

"Is there something wrong, Shisui?" No honorifics. It was then the Uchiha knew Minato was talking to him not as the Hokage, but as a friend. And it just so happens that the common ground of their friendship had to be you... and maybe Kushina played a part too with her being your teacher.

The boy didn't know what compelled him to be honest other than just outright denying everything to get the day over with. However, he didn't simply lay out his problems either, and instead, he sheepishly asked:

"How did you know that Kushina-san liked you back?"

The blond blinked in surprise, realizing that it was a genuine question and not a cheap tactic to throw him off-guard (albeit, it did).

"Girl problem, huh? Is it (Y/n)?" Shisui blanched at Minato's immediate (correct) guess, before groaning.

"But I've been so careful and subtle!" The noir lamented, as the Hokage's blue eyes shone with mirth and a hint of nostalgia at the memory of himself wooing his wife back then. Minato can clearly see his lovestruck self within the young Uchiha.

"It's not so hard to guess when she's the only girl you constantly spend your time with," Minato remarked, placating the boy. "But to answer your question, I asked Kushina out and she rejected my date invites many times,"

"Wait, what? Really?" Shisui asked incredulously.

Everyone in Konoha knows that the Yellow Flash and the Red-Hot Habanero are the main power couple of the village, with each half of the pair being a force to be reckoned with. At the same, everyone knows that they're smitten with each other, with how blaringly obvious they show their affections, the moment their marriage secrecy was rendered obsolete. The fact that the citizens know this like they know that the sky is blue speaks volumes for itself.

Their mutual pining dates back to their genin days; so, it's no wonder why Shisui is in disbelief at the concept of Kushina rejecting Minato.

"Don't get me wrong, it wasn't because she didn't return my feelings," The blond clarified with a fond smile. "Rather, she was being petty and didn't want her friends, particularly Mikoto, teasing her about me. She said something about proving them wrong and that she's not predictable and cliché enough to fall for her rescuer because she's not a damsel in distress. However, the one time she witnessed some girl trying to flirt with me, she declared me hers then and there at the presence of our friends, and started accepting my date invites from then on,"

Ah, that sounds exactly like Kushina.

"So... I should rescue (Y/n) from a kidnapping attempt?" Minato held back a chuckle at how seriously Shisui considered the option. His smile threatening to break into a grin was enough of a telltale sign of his amusement. Kushina would definitely want to hear this story, he thought. "Or should I get some girl to flirt with me for her to witness? I mean, it won't be that hard, but--"

"What? Shisui, no," It was obvious that the Uchiha's current thought comprehension contrasted greatly to his usual brilliance whenever it comes to a certain girl in mind. It's amazing how love can reduce a genius to a clueless idiot, and Minato will admit that he was one of its fortunate victims. "The main lesson is for you to be straightforward with your feelings. No riddles; no clues; no hints-- just confession. That's how you know if she reciprocates your feelings."

Shisui considered the advice, but had to ask the question that was gnawing at him back at the party.

"But what if she rejects me?" Minato smiled knowingly.

"That's the risk, isn't it? It can either be rewarding or disappointing, but most importantly, you won't have regrets. For all you know, she may reciprocate your feelings, and it could be a missed chance," Minato sagely lectured. "I know (Y/n). Growing up, she only saw you as her best friend, and nothing happened for her to think of you to be more than that. She hasn't seen you in a romantic light yet, so it's up to you to shed that light to yourself,"

"A lot of people tried that, and so far, none succeeded," The crow summoner informed, recalling the harsh rejections you gave out to numerous people.

"(Y/n) is a no non-sense person, Shisui, you know this. The strangers who approach her just for her appearance or reputation would mean an immediate rejection from her. She's not interested in short flings. In fact, I don't think dating has ever crossed her mind," The blond explained patiently. "If she's going to enter in a romantic relationship, she expects it to be long-lasting, hence she needs an already established relationship to build that romance. I'd say you're a good candidate for that,"

"You really think so?" Shisui perked up, his eyes glossed with subtle enthusiasm.

"Yes, although, if she declines, do not persist and pester her. Kushina's case was different as it was not a matter of reciprocation but rather making our relationship official," The man warned sternly, his amused eyes now steely to get the point across. "And don't be too bummed out with the rejection either. Having a significant other is your complement, not your missing half. It won't be the end of your world, Shisui. If you really love her, you'd want her to be happy, even if you're not part of her future,"

"I understand, Minato-sensei," The boy solemnly said, his eyes conveying his seriousness. Minato was internally satisfied, and to lighten the atmosphere, he teased the Uchiha.

"Though, I'd like to tip you off because rumor has it that Kakashi would ask (Y/n) out. As I've told you earlier, she just might agree, because she's known him since childhood. Kakashi was her first friend outside Obito's influence, after all," The blond smirked when he received his desired response from the curly-haired teen.

"She would?!" The noir gawked.

"I'm not certain, but I'm inclined to think Kakashi may make a move on her soon," Minato shrugged, as about a million thoughts raced within the Shisui's head. "So you better hurry. You're dismissed."

"Thank you, Minato-sensei!" Living up to his bingo book moniker, Shisui disappeared with a quick shunshin.

Once the Yondaime was visibly alone, a figure dropped from one of the office corners' ceiling, the signature gray hair being enough of an obvious sign of who was behind the dog ANBU mask.

"Was baiting him with my name really necessary, Minato-sensei?" Kakashi groaned, as two of his hidden companions snickered at his expense.

"He needed an incentive." Minato placated, his smile still etched on his face.

"Unbelievable. Shisui was so out of it that he forgot that the Hokage has personal ANBU guards stationed within the office," Rin snickered, her tone not betraying the amused smirk she has plastered on her lips. "He's so like Obito, it's unreal,"

"Speaking of Obito, he's going to kick Shisui's ass," Yugao remarked, chuckling.

"No, Obito will try to kick Shisui's ass, and fail miserably," Kakashi corrected.

"Who knows? With how whipped Shisui is, he might let Obito win over him just to get on (Y/n)'s good graces," The brunette shrugged.

"Wanna bet?" Yugao urged, as the Nohara only looked at her knowingly.

While his personal ANBU were being unprofessional for the time being, Minato thought over the discussion that just occurred.

Yes, Shisui was genuinely in love with Kushina's protégé, and Minato is honestly excited to relay everything that transpired to his wife. Suffice to say, the Yondaime approves the boy.

A speedster smitten with a seal mistress-it's indeed quite a curious parallel.

...

Okay, stop assuming, and just be frank with her. (Y/n) won't break off her friendship with you for such a shallow reason, Shisui berated himself. Those years of friendship won't be ruined by a measly confession. His honesty should get him points for honesty, right? Right. Wait, he mentioned 'honesty' twice in the same sentence--

"Ah, Shisui, what took you so long?"

The mentioned boy snapped out of his thoughts, indignantly startled as soon as he stepped foot outside the Hokage tower, not expecting for the person plaguing his thoughts to wait for him. He can't help but mentally scold himself that despite now being jounin, he wasn't paying much attention to his surroundings. It just proves how much this situation is really bothering him.

"You haven't gone home yet?" He inquired, a brow raised curiously. Okay, be casual, you shouldn't be cautious of your friend, he thought to himself, fabricating his confidence. Fake it 'til you make it, y'know?

"Not yet, but aniki already knows I'm back. Just," You paused, your eyes not meeting his, much to his dread. "Meet me at our usual spot,"

Okay, nevermind, abort, abort--

"Sure," He airily agreed, his face not betraying his inner turmoil.

Oh my Kami-sama--

With a hesitant smile, you shunshin-ed away, probably waiting for him to follow afterwards; to the Naka River cliff.

~*~*~

The rushing sounds of Naka's river water did nothing to distract you from your thoughts, and instead existed as white noise. You know there's something up with Shisui ever since the daimyo's party, and it's troubling you that you don't know what.

Shisui Uchiha has always been your partner-in-crime; his problems are your problems, and vice-versa. It was your modus operandi. When you asked him what was wrong on the way home, it was his first time in years to lie to your face. If he didn't want to tell you, he would've just stayed quiet, and yet...

It was so out of character of him, it was concerning.

It reminded you of the time when the Uchiha clan was displeased with the village, which brewed subtle hostility between the two parties that had Shisui and Itachi restless for months. Luckily, Minato found a compromise with Fugaku, which solved matters diplomatically. It's slow, but the Uchiha clan is regaining back its former glory, though not without minor issues. Still, the progress is there.

You worry that whatever is bothering Shisui now could be of the same magnitude of the Uchiha's attempt of a coup.

Eventually, Shisui arrived with a soundless shunshin, and before he could even utter out a word, you beat him to it, your paranoia taking over your patience.

"Shisui, we've been friends for years, and you know I'd do anything to keep my precious people with me in my future-- I want you to remain in my future," The boy was gobsmacked at your declaration, his eyes wide and cheeks aflame. "The last time you lied about being fine, you were attacked by ROOT agents the next day, with a council elder attempting to steal your eyes. If Minato-sensei hadn't been suspicious of Danzo that day, you... I... " You trailed off, eyes watery, and it was then he knew this was a big misunderstanding.

"No, it-- This isn't like that, promise!" Shisui placated, waving his hands in denial. Sighing, you rubbed away your unshed tears.

"Then, what's bothering you?"

"I..." You waited patiently for him to construct his sentence, watching carefully for any signs that he may be lying. With a deep breath, he relented. "It's about the dance invite,"

"When... I declined your offer?" You asked unsurely, because, well, it sounded so inane it's ridiculous! "You were off for three days because I didn't accept your dance invite?!"

With a sheepish smile, he replied with a quiet "yes".

When you didn't detect any lie from his expression, it was your turn to be gobsmacked.

"I... Sage, Shisui, what the hell?" You were worried over nothing. You laughed at the ridiculousness of it all. "I thought-- The reason why I declined is because I don't know how to dance,"

"Wait, what? That's it?" Shisui gawked, as you only looked at him incredulously.

"What do you mean 'that's it'? You're the one who's upset for days because of this,"

"You could've just swayed with the music and followed my lead, and you would've been fine," He reasoned, as you only shrugged.

"In case you forgot, I don't do things half-assed, especially not in front of the daimyo," You defended, before grimacing. "Also, Anko was there. She wouldn't ever live it down if I somehow embarrassed myself,"

"Fair enough," Shisui agreed, recalling how ruthless the snake summoner could be when it comes to her teasing (the Bowl of Water Incident is proof enough, but that's a story for another time). "Though, I could've taught you. You're a fast learner; I doubt dancing would be a challenge for you,"

"Well, alright. We're alone and we have time, teach me now; so, that next time, I won't have to decline your invitation to dance," When you offered your hand for him to guide, he hesitated. "We don't need music, it's just timing, right? Just show me what to do," You humored him, because Kami damn it, you will murder Shisui yourself if he worries you over something inane as dancing again.

"Are... you sure?" He stalled, to which you only smiled at.

"It could be fun," You simply said.

Finally, Shisui accepted and placed a hand on your waist, then led one of your hands to his shoulder while the other remained on his hand. It was then you realized how big his hands were, compared to yours; his was rough, calloused, but light and gentle. It was an interesting contrast that you never took notice before.

Wordlessly, he took the lead, knowing that you learn better with demonstration rather than instruction. After a few steps, as he predicted, you easily picked up the timing and pattern. Other than the rushing waterfall and the chirping crickets, no noise escaped from either of you, as you were contented watching your feet move in sync with his-- each step was silent. This could potentially be a base for a new dual taijutsu technique, you can't help but think.

"Was the reason behind why you rejected all those men because you didn't know how to dance?" You were surprised that Shisui broke the silence first, and even more so with his question, which had you lose count for a moment, but you immediately recovered.

"I said 'no' to them, but 'next time' to you, didn't I?" Your answer seemed to have sparked something within him, as his hold on your hand tightened. Taking a glance at his face, you can tell he was contemplating something, hence you tightened your hand's grip on his, as your unspoken reassurance.

"Listen, what I'm about to tell you," Shisui paused when you looked at him curiously, the setting sun's light illuminating the side of his face delicately, as it did yours. "I like you more than as a friend, but if you don't feel comfortable, just tell me to buzz off, and I would, just please don't stop being friends with me!" He suddenly blurted out.

Your dance stopped.

You stared at him, and he stared back. None of you made a move, as both of you were shocked by the exclaimed confession-- with him being astonished with his sudden courage, and you being surprised by the overall situation.

When you didn't reply, Shisui hesitatingly loosened his hold on you to give you distance, but you tightened your grip on his hand and his shoulder, which startled him. You didn't let go.

"You really do live up to your speed's reputation; so fast to assume," You can't help but joke to defuse the tension. "Sorry for the delayed response, I just... didn't really expect you to yell a confession, y'know?"

Shisui's blush reddened, grimacing in embarrassment. "Yeah, sorry,"

"You really think I won't give you a chance?" You genuinely asked, as he further dug his head within his high neck collar.

"Kinda, yeah," He muttered, making you look at him with soft eyes.

"I wasn't kidding when I said I want you in my future, in fact... I think I'd like my future to be yours too," You genuinely stated, which had Shisui look at you with wide eyes. "Now that I think about it, I don't see anyone else but you being by my side all the way through."

Shisui sighed in relief, his quiet utterance not escaping your sharp hearing.

"Kami, and I thought those dance lessons were for nothing,"

"You studied how to dance... for me?" You asked with a grin of amusement, as he only groaned at his carelessness. Man, his mouth was too loose nowadays.

"Well, if you put it like that, you make it sound like it's insane," You laughed.

"Hm, well you probably have tricks up your sleeves if you actually studied. It can't possibly be just swaying," Your eyes glinted in a way that seemed to challenge him, and like that, the atmosphere you usually have on each other returned-- light, friendly, less awkward... but there was a new air of unknown emotion added to the mix.

And suddenly, you see Shisui in a new light.

"Want a demo?" He smirked.

"Do I?" You smirked back.

"Since you don't know what to do, just let me lead and keep yourself light," And with that instruction, he held you closer, closing the gap between the two of you. Startled, you didn't expect him to suddenly dip you so low to the ground to have the tips of your hair brush the soil, which had you grip his shoulder tighter, as you tried not letting gravity have its way with you. "Don't worry, I got you. I know what I'm doing,"

After his reassurance, you slowly loosened your tense form, and let yourself fall back, and that was when you felt his hand underneath your waist, waiting to catch you.

From there, you followed his lead with newfound confidence in his skills.

And then, the two of you danced to your new rhythm.

Pull back, twist, basic steps, turn, throw, catch, basic steps.

Even without spoken instructions, you somehow knew what to do, and the next thing you know, you were laughing carefreely with Shisui doing the same. It was a bliss you can't explain, and yet you felt like you understood.

The sun was long gone, and in its place was the bright moon within the cloudless sky, the glowing fireflies around you contributing more to the ethereal nature of your surroundings.

Finally, Shisui ended the dance with having you sit on his outstretched lap, as one hand steadied your waist, and the other had your arm extended near the side of his face-- inches away from yours.

"Can I kiss you?" He blurted out without thinking.

Even without trying (while failing miserably), somehow, the boy can still be charismatic. You're not sure if it's his charm as an Uchiha, or it's just uniquely Shisui. But either way...

Without hesitation, your free hand snaked behind his neck, tilted your head, closed your eyes, then pulled him to a kiss.

His lips were warm and a bit dry. He tasted like chocolate mint, unsurprisingly, as it's his favorite dessert flavor, if how often he eats it were any indication. Still, with new emotions overwhelming you, his kiss was ambrosial to your taste buds, and you craved more of it. So, you deepened the kiss, and Shisui's breath hitched for a moment, before melting in it.

It was sloppy and obviously inexperienced, but it still managed to convey the feelings you were trying to express that cannot be put into words. For you, the kiss was not like exploding fireworks nor the fluttering of butterflies in your stomach; it wasn't exactly ecstasy either.

Romantic love is like... the sealing arts. However, instead of it being made out of kanji and symbols, it was made out of small gestures; the littlest touches that convey subtle affection; the simplest of words but with the feeling of meaningful sentiments. And its activation is, predictably, a kiss.

You remembered Shisui hanging out with you in your academy days; Shisui staying silent and listening throughout your grieving when you thought your brother was killed in action; Shisui being by your side and supporting you which led to your groundbreaking accomplishments; Shisui trying his best to not get you involved with the Uchiha conflict, even when he knew you were in the political position to do so, to the point it had almost cost his life.

He was the constant of your life, and you don't see any better future without him.

Eventually, the both of you pulled away, remembering to breathe.

"I... wow..." He panted, face flushed. "Not that I'm grateful, but I thought you'd put more thought into this, before kissing me since, y'know, it's your first and you'd want it to be special," He kept on blabbering, as you only listened with an amused smile.

"I kissed you, didn't I? You're special," You off-handedly remarked with a grin, which further reddened his face it that was even possible with how cherry red he is.

"Agh, this is so unfair! I'm here having a heart attack, and you look like you're on cloud nine, this is--" Shisui huffed, before hugging you, burrowing his face by your neck. "Hn, I'm just... really glad of all people it's you,"

"Yeah, me too." You said, before hugging back.

OMAKE:

"Minato-sensei, you invited me over?" Shisui asked, unsure, as the invite was rather sudden. Not knowing if it was urgent or not, he decided not to risk it and came immediately.

"Oh, you're here. Come on in," Entering the Namikaze-Uzumaki household, Shisui noticed that were other people the moment he stepped in the living room.

There was Asuma, Hayate, Obito-- wait, is that the Sandaime?!

Usually, when missions are debriefed, it's held within the Hokage's office, and yet there were four renowned jounins and two Hokages present within a house outside the safety of privacy seals.

"Uh, if I may ask, what is going on?" The Uchiha inquired, as Minato smiled, Obito grumbled, Asuma stayed neutral, Hayate smirked, and Hiruzen seemed embarrassed to be here.

"Welcome to the Smitten Club!" The Yondaime exclaimed, as Shisui only gawked.

This... wasn't what he expected.

"No, he's not welcome here!" Obito retaliated, before comically pointing at his fellow Uchiha. "Stop dating my sister, bastard!"

"Don't be rude, we should congratulate him," Hayate said amused, holding back a cough-- it's no doubt he's recalling what happened back at the daimyo's party. "Congrats on graduating from singlehood,"

"Wait, what? You guys know?" The curly-haired teen eyed all of them carefully. "We just became official last night, and we haven't announced it yet,"

"I knew (Y/n) would accept your confession; I always had faith on the two of you," Minato placated (he pretended that he didn't place seals around the Naka cliff to eavesdrop along with Kushina, Mikoto, Kakashi, Rin, Obito, the half of the ANBU and jounin divisions. Seals? What seals? All he knows is Hiraishin and how to kill himself with the use of Shinigami-sama).

"Um, thanks..?" Shisui shifted awkwardly in his place, trying not to be bothered by Obito's death glare. "What exactly is this club for?"

"I'm glad you asked! We just plan for our significant others' occasion such as anniversaries, their birthdays, and white days! We usually collaborate, so that our surprises won't be obvious. None of our significant others are aware, and we hope you won't tell (Y/n) of this either." Minato explained, and Shisui knew, deep down, there's no escaping this, no matter how much he wants to.

Oh well, it's for you in the end, isn't it?

~*~*~

The summary of the whole one-shot, quoted from Minato: "What? Shisui, no."

Shisui finally has his happy AU lmao (bby im so sorry that canon wasnt as kind to you sksksk)

Also, we. need. more. ANBU. Rin. fics. They need med nins too asfghjkl

BONUS:

Sakura: Y'know, I used to think no man was good enough for (Y/n)-sensei.

Shisui: Thank--

Sakura: I still think that.

...

Sasuke: Stop dating (Y/n)-nee, she's supposed to be dating nii-san!

Shisui: You know what? Because of that, I'm gonna start dating her even harder.

...

Shisui: If my girlfriend thinks she can just bat her cute little eyes at me and get whatever she wants, she's absolutely right.

...

Shisui: She loves me even though she knows what I've done. She's kinda like the Sage of Six Paths.

...

*Shisui knocks on the Namikaze-Uzumaki household, then Naruto opens the door*

Shisui: Hey, is (Y/n) with Kushina-san?

Naruto: Are you nee-chan's boyfriend?

Shisui with pride: Yes. Yes, I am.

Naruto: Ew.

Later...

Shisui: (Y/n), do I look 'ew' to you?

(Y/n): Shisui, what?

~*~*~

Here I am procrastinating on both my assignments and the update, so have a nutshell of this book. This is basically all their dynamics lmao. Don't worry, the update is on its way, I just don't have really the time to write properly because of the weekly 200 drawings I have to submit. I'm just posting this shitpost for yall to know im still alive lol

For now, enjoy my garbage;;;

.

.

.

(Y/n): Nothing in life is free.

Sasuke: Life is free.

Naruto: Adventure is free.

Sakura: Knowledge is free.

Kakashi: Everything is free if you take it without paying.

~*~*~

*Kakashi holding Eri*

Sakura: Maybe she's hungry?

Naruto: Yeah! Let's feed her ramen. Everyone loves ramen!

Kakashi (not knowing how children work): Can she even eat solid food yet?

Naruto: Then we put it in a blender!

Kakashi about to drop Eri in the blender: Well, if you say so.

Sakura: The ramen, not the child! Also, she can eat solid food, she's seven!

~*~*~

Sakura: There's a difference between being happy and being distracted from sadness.

(Y/n) and Kakashi: Maybe so.

~*~*~

Kakashi: bitch

Aizawa: blocked.

Kakashi: wait unblock me i need to tell you something

Aizawa: unblocked.

Kakashi: bitch

~*~*~

Kakashi: I just want you to know I love you and care about you. I never meant to hurt you like that. I tried to apologize.

Naruto: You left me at Walmart.

~*~*~

Kakashi: I may seem like like an asshole, but deep down, I'm a good person.

Kakashi:

Kakashi: But even deeper down, I'm a bigger asshole.

~*~*~

Kakashi: You remind me of the ocean.

Aizawa: Why the ocean?

Kakashi: Because you're salty and you scare people.

~*~*~

Sasuke: Ugh, I really wish I could delete people sometimes.

(Y/n): Now, you see, that would be murder and we've talked about this.

~*~*~

(Y/n): What did I tell you about calling Aizawa the devil?

Kakashi: That it's offensive to the devil?

~*~*~

(Y/n): Oh, no, no. We're not a couple, no. We're just platonic friends. Definitely not a couple.

Kakashi: Why are you so adamant about it? Am I not good enough for you?

(Y/n): Kakashi, we are not going through this again.

~*~*~

(Y/n): Wow, Kakashi, you're pretty tall. What do you see from up there?

Kakashi: People's flaws.

(Y/n):

Kakashi: But you have none, (Y/n).

~*~*~

Hawks: Lately I've been acting nicer towards (Y/n), dropping subtle hints that I would make an exceptional boyfriend. Yesterday, she was searching through her bag like she was looking for something. Being the kindred man I am, I dumped the rest of her bag so she could look through her things easier and she told me to "screw myself" instead of "fuck off".

Hawks:

Hawks: She wants me.

~*~*~

Naruto: What are your biggest fears?

Sasuke: Being abandoned and alone.

Sakura: Being a disappointment.

Naruto:

Naruto: Fuck, that's deep. Mine is the Kool Aid Man, but I feel kinda stupid about it now.

~*~*~

*Kakashi hands each Team 7 bottles of sake*

Kakashi: Excellent work on your vigilante debut, my cute students!

(Y/n): Kakashi, no, they're all physically 12.

Kakashi: Oh!

*Kakashi hands each Team 7 two bottles of sake*

Kakashi: You are growing children.

(Y/n): Kakashi no.

~*~*~

Shigaraki: I will ruin your happiness no matter what.

Kakashi: Our happiness?

Kakashi whispering to (Y/n): We're happy?

~*~*~

Sasuke: Kakashi is smiling. Did something good happen?

Kakashi: Can't I smile because I feel like it?

(Y/n): Aizawa tripped at the parking lot 10 minutes ago.

~*~*~

Itachi: Don't joke about murder. I was murdered once and it offends me.

~*~*~

Host: Name something you'd pay money to get rid of.

(Y/n): Your spouse.

Kakashi: Now that's just hurtful.

(Y/n): We aren't even married, Kakashi.

Kakashi: And whose fault is that?

~*~*~

Kaminari: Roses are red, the school year is long;

Kaminari: Decisions, decisions-- all of them wrong.

~*~*~

Sasuke: I need you.

(Y/n): For?

Sasuke: Ever.

(Y/n): *chokes up* Oh. Okay.

~*~*~

Naruto: It's a package from Kakashi.

Sakura: Oh, what's in it?

Naruto: It's heavy. It must be his disappointment in me.

~*~*~

Naruto: If I die, my funeral's gonna be the biggest party and you're all invited!

Sakura:... If?

Sasuke: Great, the only party I've ever been invited to and he might not even die.

~*~*~

Sakura: I know what this is about. You're jealous of all the attention Aizawa is getting from (Y/n).

Kakashi: Please. You think I care that (Y/n) gives another guy a little attention? How insecure do you think I am?

Sakura:

Kakashi: Seriously, how insecure do you think I am?

~*~*~

(Y/n): Kakashi, I did something terrible.

Kakashi: It's okay, I have a shovel.

(Y/n): Wait what? What do you think I did?

Kakashi: It doesn't matter. No one will ever know.

~*~*~

Kakashi: I'm an adult and yet (Y/n) grounded me for a month because I came home late.

Sasuke: Well, you deserved it. Getting everyone's hopes like that and then showing up again.

~*~*~

(Y/n): Synchronize your watches.

Naruto: I dunno how to do that.

Sakura: I don't wear a watch.

Sasuke: Time is a construct.

~*~*~

Hawks: Don't you miss the vivid imagination of childhood?

(Y/n): Never had one.

Hawks:... An imagination or a childhood?

~*~*~

Kakashi about Eri: You can say "please" and "thank you" a million times and your toddler will never repeat it, but if you say "ass-faced motherfucker" ONCE--

~*~*~

Sakura: Have you been yelled at by (Y/n) yet?

Naruto: I'm not scared of her.

Sakura: So that's a no, then.

~*~*~

Aizawa: How do you all usually get out of these messes?

(Y/n): We don't. We just make a bigger one that cancels the first one out.

~*~*~

(Y/n): Since you won't be able to contact me for a month, I've left a complimentary bowl of advice.

(Y/n): For instance, "Naruto, stop doing that", just applies to everything.

~*~*~

Naruto: Sasuke, do you think I'm smart?

Sasuke: Oh, is that what we're gonna do today? We're gonna fight?

~*~*~

Sasuke: Are you alright? You didn't sleep at all last night.

(Y/n): I got a solid 8 minutes.

Sasuke:

(Y/n): Not consecutively, but it's fine. You're not even that blurry.

~*~*~

Kakashi: What dog breed looks like me?

Naruto: A cute lil puppy

Kakashi: Naruto, what breed??

Naruto: I just said puppy?

Kakashi: Yea but what breed of puppy???

Naruto: PUPPY!!!

Kakashi: but what kind of puppy?!?

Naruto: a dog puppy, why, is there a cat puppy???

~*~*~

Naruto: also hey i just had a thought today--

Sasuke: congratulations, is it your first one?

Naruto: fuck you

~*~*~

SO SORRY FOR THE UNANNOUNCED HIATUS I WAS SO BUSY WITH ASSIGNMENTS BUT HEY, I FINISHED 1000 DRAWINGS WITHIN 4 DAYS IN LESS THAN 20 PAGES

UPDATE IS COMING SOON DATTEBAYO!!!

However, my updates are still not constant;;;