Chapter 7


Soriya returned to consciousness slowly, eyes blinking blearily as objects in the room swam in and out of focus. She felt awful.

“Ugh.”

“Well, well. Awake at last. How are you feeling?” a placid voice asked. The tall shinobi stood in her bathroom, wet washcloth draped across one hand.

She grunted. “I've been better. My head feels really muzzy.”

“Here.” The Copy Ninja approached, handing her the warm cloth. “You bit your lip yesterday. Use this.”

Taking the washcloth, she struggled to sit up. And succeeded, though it took more effort than she would have liked. Her whole body ached, as if she'd run one hundred kilometers up a mountain. Swallowing a groan, she asked, “What time is it?”

“It's a little after 8. You were out all night. Enya said you should take it easy for a few days.”

“Ha!” she snorted. “He should know better. I can't lie around all day. I've got classes to teach. I just need a bath and something to eat, and I'll be good as new.”

Kakashi smiled. She really was too predictable. “Well, judging by the contents of your refrigerator,” he drawled, “I'm guessing you haven't had a chance to visit the market. Somehow, I don't think ramen and bottled water will do much to replenish your energy.”

She shot him a knowing glance. “What happened to the cherry pie?”

The elite jonin's eye crinkled up and he shrugged sheepishly. “Well, you know cherry pie is my favorite. What can I say?

“Look, why don't you take a bath, while I get the groceries. I'll stop in and check on Yori and Izumi on the way,” he added, as an enticement. “While I'm out, I'll have Sakura, Naruto, and Sasuke let everyone know classes are canceled today.” He quirked a platinum brow at her, remarking reasonably, “If you get enough rest, you'll probably be up and about tomorrow.”

Wiping her face with the washcloth, the kunoichi considered his offer. It was true she was really in no condition to be moving around. Merely sitting up was proving to be a challenge, requiring considerable effort on her part. She decided to give in gracefully for once, conceding, “Perhaps just one day would be okay. Some food would be great, too.” Her nose wrinkled. “And a bath is definitely in order.” She looked sharply at him. “No, you may not help. I can manage that on my own.”

“I don't like to leave you in such a weakened state,” Kakashi hesitated. “Is there anyone who can stay with you while I'm gone?”

Soriya smiled, eyes twinkling with mischief. “As a matter of fact, there is. And I think it's past time you met.”

Closing her eyes, the kunoichi brought palms together in a series of intricate hand seals. Kakashi felt a mere whisper of chakra rise from her as she spoke two names.

“Bathsheba. Ra.” Her voice, though pitched softly, echoed eerily in the small space.

Several moments passed. A slight breeze whisked into the room from the balcony, rustling the sheers wrapped around the bed's canopy. Tendrils of unbound hair swirled around Soriya's face. She smiled tiredly.

Suddenly, two dark, feline forms appeared on the bed, pressing lithe bodies against her arms and chest. One of the cats lifted its front paws to her shoulders, rubbing its face along her jawline, whiskers tickling her ear. The sound of low, persistent purring filled the room. The other cat butted its wedged head against her hand, insistently demanding attention.

“Soriya.” The first feline rolled the “r” in her name. “What have you been doing to yourself? Every time we see you lately, you're in bed.” Large, pointed ears flicked back in disapproval.

“Sorry, Bathsheba. I just overdid it a bit yesterday. No real harm done.”

Her hand stroked down the cat's back, tempting its spine to arch in contentment. She scratched the other cat firmly under the chin, causing its golden eyes to close in pleasure. A rumbling purr shook its entire body, and it flopped down, draping across the woman's thighs. Slitted eyes peered curiously at the silver-haired shinobi leaning against the bathroom door frame.

“Who's the weirdo in the mask?” Ra wanted to know.

“Ra! Be polite,” Soriya chided. “This is Kakashi Hatake. He's been taking care of me.”

“Not very well, it seems.” The feline's ears went back as the Copy Ninja casually moved toward the bed. Ra hissed, revealing long white fangs and a pink tongue. Bathsheba wasted no time swatting him between the ears, abruptly cutting off the growl starting low in his throat.

“Ra! You stop that this instant! This man is her mate. Can't you smell him all over her?”

Soriya cringed, flushing crimson. She dared a quick glance at Kakashi, who appeared...amused?

I knew I should've taken a bath first.

Clearing her throat awkwardly, the redhead tried to redirect the conversation.

“Well, uh, it's not quite that simple, but--”

“Actually, I have no problem with that,” Kakashi cut in smoothly. “It seems a fairly apt description of my intentions, after all.”

Shooting him an annoyed glance, she snapped, “You be quiet. We'll talk about this later.”

Shrugging his shoulders, Kakashi's lidded eye looked her over lazily. “Suit yourself. I'm a patient man. I can wait.”

Ra chose that moment to jump off the bed, crossing the floor to stand in front of the Copy Ninja, who straightened from his slouch. Brown and black ticked fur rose on the cat's back as he twined his body in and around the shinobi's ankles. His tail puffed as he snarled angrily, “He smells like dog! Soriya, what are you thinking?”

“Hey!” Kakashi protested, offended.

Soriya chuckled, hugging Bathsheba to her chest. “Sorry, Ra. Kakashi summons a pack of ninja hounds from time to time, I'm afraid. Please forgive his poor taste. For my sake.” She grinned at the elite jonin. “Ra is not overly fond of dogs, as you can see.”

“I'll keep it in mind,” he replied sardonically, eyeing the cat now sitting at his feet.

Bathsheba pushed off from Soriya's lap, landing lightly on the floor. Sinuously making her way over to Ra, she rubbed her jaw along his shoulder, nipping him lightly.

“Ra, behave yourself. Any man who can make Soriya smile has my approval. Don't be so possessive.” Her tail flicked his nose as she brushed past, making him sneeze. She stopped in front of the Copy Ninja, green eyes staring up at him sedately.

“You may pick me up,” she directed, tone regal as any queen's.

Kakashi lifted his eyebrow, but reached down to the feline's slender form. She settled herself in the crook of his arm, turning her triangular head toward him. She observed him keenly with slitted green eyes.

“Hmm. You seem powerful enough. What's under the headband? Smells like Sharingan to me, but you are not of the Uchiha clan. You were not born with this power,” she pronounced, question sounding like a statement.

“No.” The Copy Ninja admitted, glancing toward Soriya for help.

She shrugged, enjoying her position as spectator to this bizarre introduction. Things were going remarkably well. From experience, she knew Bathsheba and Ra were not subtle about expressing their dislike. Much to the extreme vexation of the psych-nin assigned to her case. She smiled.

Bathsheba's whiskers brushed against the man's lower mask. “You do have the reek of the pack about you, but I can overlook that,” she offered magnanimously. “Just be good to her, and we'll get along fine.” Deliberately unsheathing a paw's razor-sharp claws, Bathsheba inspected them carefully. “I'm sure you take my meaning. You seem fairly intelligent, for a human.”

“Thanks...I think,” Kakashi replied dryly.

Bathsheba hopped down to the floor, nudging Ra with a paw. His fur had settled back to its usual sleek appearance. He flicked an ear at her, but conceded grudgingly, “I suppose I can give you the benefit of the doubt...for Soriya's sake. See that you don't abuse my goodwill.” With that, he turned his back on the shinobi, tail waving languorously in the air as he padded back to the bed. Springing up beside the kunoichi, he flopped down, promptly closing his eyes for a nap.

The nonplussed look in Kakashi's dark eye was the funniest thing Soriya had seen in a long while. She lost the battle to hold in the giggles, laughing uproariously at the bemused jonin's expression.

“As you can see, I'll be quite well-defended. While you're at the market, will you please pick up some fresh salmon? It's their favorite.” She smiled winsomely, still chuckling.

Pleased by the redhead's joyful visage, Kakashi decided restraint was his best option. Already, in the few moments since the felines had arrived, her color was better and she seemed to have more energy. He strolled toward the balcony doors, tossing a casual wave over his shoulder. Preparing to vault the railing, he advised, “I'll be back in an hour or so.” Then, sarcastically, “Try to stay out of trouble, if you can.”

Soriya stuck her tongue out at his receding form.

“So...he does know you pretty well,” Bathsheba purred, cocking her head at the kunoichi. “He really cares for you, you know. I read it easily.”

“Oh, hush. You two are terrible. Especially you, Ra. Quit posturing. Kakashi's made of sterner stuff than that. It won't work.” Her tone was affectionate exasperation.

Ra did not deign to reply. Instead, he rolled into a ball, tucking his pink nose between long back legs. Soriya sighed, stroking the soft fur. Pushing back the comforter, she swung slightly shaky legs to the floor.

“Now, about that bath...”


Tap, tap.

Soriya grimaced, turning her face away from the persistent touch on her cheek.

“Go 'way,” she muttered groggily.

Whiskers tickled her ear and she lazily swatted a hand near the offender without making contact. Only when a raspy tongue licked the hair at her temple did she open sleepy eyes in annoyance. Green slitted orbs stared into hers from three inches away, making her eyes cross.

“Ugh.” She pushed lightly at the feline head. “You know I hate the whole hair-licking thing, Bathsheba. What gives?”

The female sat back on her haunches. If she had been human, the kunoichi would swear she was grinning.

“You fell asleep in the tub about a half-hour ago. Not only is the water cold, but Ra says Kakashi is approaching. I thought you might like to be clothed when he gets here.” She paused, than added teasingly, “Then again, I'm hardly an expert when it comes to human relationships. Perhaps I am mistaken?” She blinked innocent green eyes at the woman, whose mouth had dropped open.

“Shit! You could have warned me sooner,” Soriya accused, scrambling up from the tepid bathwater. She had just enough time to grab for the blue towel beside the tub, wrapping it around herself, when she felt the shinobi's return. Before he could knock on the bathroom door, Soriya yanked it open.

“Hey. I fell asleep in the tub. Sorry,” she confessed sheepishly. “Can you give me a few minutes? I won't be long.”

Silently, Kakashi took in her current state of undress. She thought she heard him suck in a breath, but couldn't be sure because of the mask. Waving a hand in front of his unmoving form, she prompted, “Kakashi? Hello? Anybody home?”

The silver-haired ninja coughed slightly.

“Uh, sure. No need to hurry. I'll be in the kitchen.”

Abruptly turning on his heel, the Copy Ninja continued down the hallway. Ra and Bathsheba trailed him, tails erect, tips twitching with excitement.

Staring after him in bemusement, Soriya shrugged. Closing the door, she moved to the bathroom mirror. Grabbing a comb, she began working it through slightly tangled tresses. She'd draped her hair over a towel behind the tub to remove excess moisture, as usual. However, falling asleep had allowed it to dry too much, making the task of combing it out more difficult. By the time she finished, her arms were shaking with effort. Feeling too fatigued to bother with putting it up, she popped a hair band onto the lengthy mane a foot from the end, holding most of the strands together and out of her face. Suddenly, a loud growl echoed off the tiled walls of the bathroom.

“All right, already! I hear you,” she told her rumbling stomach. Snatching the short black robe from the hook on the back of the door, she let the towel fall to the floor. Wrapping the silk around herself, she tied it securely with the belt.

Butterflies fluttered in her stomach, reminding her vividly of the interlude on the balcony the previous evening. She inhaled deeply, reaching for calm.

Last night was just...just a one-time thing. Regardless of what he says... He doesn't even know--

Her mind shied away from completing the thought. Forcing down sudden anxiety, the kunoichi checked the mirror to ensure she wore a detached expression. Squaring slender shoulders, she grasped the doorknob.



While Soriya worked on her hair, Kakashi unpacked the food, laying supplies out on the counter. He had taken the liberty of opening a couple of boxes labeled “kitchen” during the night, to have some dishes, pans, and utensils ready for use. Ra and Bathsheba took turns twining around and between his ankles, excited “meows” and “merows” escaping their throats occasionally.

“All right. I get the hint. Can you please get out from under my feet now?” the shinobi sighed in exasperation. The felines backed off slightly, sitting like twin bookends, tails twitching. He could feel their eyes boring into him as he laid out two plates with fresh salmon.

“Here you go. Bon appetit.”

Without so much as a thank you in acknowledgment, both cats descended on the fish with a vengeance. Loud purring could be heard as they made short work of the meal.

“Charming.” Kakashi's tone was droll.

Turning back to the counter, he set about preparing the rice, vegetables, and beef he had purchased. Hands carried out the task by rote; his mind was otherwise preoccupied by images of a towel-wrapped Soriya, fresh from the tub. Damp hair, normally straight and sleek, fell in soft waves around her face.

She was so appealing, it took his breath away.

Stupidly, he could only stare at her, dark eye focusing on the water droplet tracing a path down her jugular, over a delicate collarbone, into the shadowed valley of her cleavage. When she'd called his name, his gaze had snapped back up to her face guiltily. A sudden tightness in his throat had made him cough.

Control, Kakashi, control.

He supposed he ought to feed her first, though all he could think about was trailing his tongue along the same path the water had taken.

Patience is a virtue.

He had beat a hasty retreat to the kitchen, before he threw aside good sense and acted on those licentious thoughts. The flustered shinobi sincerely hoped she put on some clothes. Maybe a snowsuit would help him maintain composure. At least long enough to get some food into her. He doubted she even realized what she was doing to him. Well, he would rectify that soon enough, with great pleasure.

Feeling a presence at his back, he prompted without turning around, “Have a seat, food's almost ready. By the way, Sumiko and Izumi are doing fine. Yori says they're sleeping, mostly. Iori seems slightly disgruntled about having a little sister though,” Kakashi chuckled. “I think he wanted a little brother. Or a puppy.”

That surprised a laugh from her. “I'm sure he'll appreciate her more when she's older and has cute teenage girlfriends over to the house. But I'm glad Izumi and the baby are doing well.” Soriya sniffed the air appreciatively. “I'm starving. Something smells delicious.” Sitting at the small, round table, she asked curiously, “Do you cook often?”

“Soriya. I'm thirty-one years old and live alone. Of course, I cook. Quite well, in fact.” He quirked an eyebrow in her direction, stomach tightening as he noticed what she wore.

She's trying to kill me.

Stifling a groan, he served up a generous portion of beef with vegetables on a plate, setting it in front of her.

“Dig in. There's more if you're still hungry.” He looked her over critically. “I recommend seconds.” In a lower tone of voice, he added, “You'll need the energy.” He arched a brow innocently at the sharp glance she threw him. Fidgeting slightly in her chair, she let the comment pass.

Bathsheba and Ra, finished with their meal, rubbed against Soriya's ankles. Ra jumped from the floor to perch on the kunoichi's shoulders, purring in her ear. Bumping her jaw with his head, he tendered a telepathic warning.

That man is thinking dirty thoughts. Want me to bite him for you?

In the process of bringing food to her lips, she jerked, eyebrows rising toward her hairline.

“I do not! Ra!”

Kakashi turned from loading the dishwasher, curiosity in his gaze.

“Soriya?”

She cleared her throat, looking slightly guilty. “Uh, never mind. It's nothing.” Shooting a glare at the golden-eyed feline face inches from her own, she snapped, “Ra and Bathsheba were just leaving, I'm afraid.” She reached down to stroke Bathsheba's soft fur, dislodging the ten pound weight from her shoulders in the process. Ra promptly sat, licking a paw nonchalantly.

More calmly, Soriya added, “Thank you both for coming. Really, I feel much better now. I'll call you again soon, I promise.”

“Just try to stay out of bed,” admonished Bathsheba. Unless it's with your human, of course. He has some interesting ideas. I had no idea humans were so flexible.

An image appeared in the kunoichi's mind, causing heat to blossom in her cheeks.

“Bathsheba! Not you, too!” Soriya exclaimed, betrayed.

Kakashi found the dark red color washing over the kunoichi's face and throat fascinating. He was intensely curious as to what the feline had said to elicit such a response. He had not been aware she could speak mind to mind with the cats. Briefly, he wondered if the ability was granted by her gift, or was a skill endemic to the felines. Just as he opened his mouth to ask, a brisk breeze blew through the kitchen, vanishing as suddenly as it had come. As the rush of cool air settled once more, he asked dryly, “Are they gone?”

Soriya closed her eyes in mild relief. “Yes. For the moment. I always forget what a handful the two of them can be. But they mean well. Mostly.” She laughed shortly. “Sometimes, I swear, they do and say things just to see what will happen.”

“I had heard their temperaments were, um, rather mercurial in nature,” Kakashi offered. “It must be useful, speaking telepathically with them. Your doing, or theirs?”

“Fishing for information for Enya?” she smirked at him. “He was fascinated by them, always asking questions they refused to answer.” She relented with a shrug. “Oh, that skill is entirely their own. They are extremely powerful telepaths, among other things. Perhaps that's why they were drawn to me, initially. It is a sign of great favor to be spoken to in such a way, apparently--or so I've been told.” She rolled her eyes. “Believe me, there are times when I would rather forego the honor. Like just now,” the kunoichi muttered darkly under her breath.

“What did they say to you?”

“Oh. Er—just something embarrassing. Nothing important.” She focused on her plate, adding, “Just so you know, they don't require contact to read minds. And they pick up surface thoughts really, really well.” Soriya took a bite of food, chewing and swallowing. Gracelessly, she switched topics, “This is very good. Thanks for going to the trouble.”

“You're welcome.” Kakashi's dark eye gleamed with humor.

He decided to let the abrupt change of subject pass unchallenged. He took the hint regarding her warning, guessing the sorts of thoughts the felines had gleaned from him. However, since he'd already expressed his intentions openly, he wasn't particularly concerned. Watching idly as she ate, the Copy Ninja admired the precise, elegant motions she made with the chopsticks.

“More?” he asked, reaching for her empty plate.

“Aren't you having any? You were up all night playing nursemaid.”

He snorted. “That was easy. You were unconscious the whole time. Not much for me to do. And I had the cherry pie, remember? So, I'm not hungry,” he paused, silver eyebrow dipping rakishly, “for food.”

Soriya swallowed audibly, mouth suddenly dry. Pushing back from the table, she stared at him. Ignoring her traitorous body that thrilled at his words, she tried to caution him.

“Kakashi. About what happened last night—I'm not sure it was wise.” She held up a hand, forestalling his reply. “It's not fair to you. There is so much about me you don't know. Things I've done, am capable of.” She looked away from him, gray eyes shuttered. “I'm not the person you think I am.”

Studying her tense profile, the Copy Ninja responded quietly, “Soriya. I've spoken with Enya. And the Hokage. At length.”

She closed her eyes. Flatly, with no emotion, she said, “You know.”

“Yes.”

The kunoichi sat for a moment, unmoving. He couldn't read the expression on her pale face. Before he could speak again, she stood abruptly, refusing to meet his gaze. Numbly, she instructed, “You should go now. Don't worry about me, I'll be fine.”

He could see that her breathing was a little too fast.

“Soriya, wait. Talk to me.”

Kakashi reached for her, but she sidestepped, stalking quickly down the hall. He followed immediately, determined to make her see reason. She was not to blame for what had happened. And he was on her side.

Just as his hand reached out to clasp her shoulder, she whirled on him. Tears of rage and pain shimmered in the stormy gray eyes. Dark red hair, pulled free of its containment, whipped violently around her face. Visible chakra swirled madly, encompassing the furious kunoichi in an aura of white.

“What do you mean, 'yes'?! Enya told you! Told you what I planned. What I did. How it cost Natsu his life!” she cried. “How can you still be here?

His heart ached to see her so broken and hurting, pain laid bare. For the first time, he could clearly see the rage and hatred she radiated were directed mostly at herself. He stepped closer, but did not attempt to touch her.

“Soriya. It is not your fault that Emiko died. Or Natsu. They were shinobi. They knew the risks.”

Shut up!” she screamed, the force of her chakra driving him back a step. “Just shut up! You don't understand...” she sobbed. “Natsu didn't want me to do it! But I wouldn't listen. I was so sure I could take Ryuji down if only I could get close to him.” Her voice dropped, until she seemed to be speaking almost to herself. Words long bottled up poured forth in a steady stream, breaking now and again, as if rushing over jagged rapids.

“I knew he wanted me. When I killed Mujito and fled, I knew he'd come. And I wanted him to. I swore I'd kill him. For Emiko. Natsu argued against it all the way to the border, but I was team leader; I blew him off. Finally, I told him that if he wanted to stop me, he'd have to kill me.” She laughed, the harsh sound at odds with her anguished expression. “What kind of person does that, Kakashi?”

He raised a hand to caress her tear-streaked face, but she flinched away, plunging back into her confession. The angry glow of chakra subsided as her rage-driven energy faded. Crimson tresses ceased their chaotic thrashing and the kunoichi's voice quieted, as though resigning itself to the story's inevitable outcome.

“I drove him off. I wanted him gone before Ryuji showed up. I knew what would happen if he stayed. I couldn't let him try to stop it. Stop me.” Tears leaked from her eyes.

Why? Why did he come back alone?” she lamented. “He was supposed to wait for help!”

Something about the way she said the words bothered him, and suddenly, he knew what it was. His eye widened in shock, then narrowed, a rare anger surging through him. Before he could think better of it, the Copy Ninja grabbed her upper arms, shoving her forcefully into the wall.

“You little fool! You were committing suicide, weren't you? Using Ryuji as the weapon.”

Her lack of response told him the truth.

“It wasn't about the mission, or Emiko, or the Itasukis at all.” He shook her with each accusation, fingers digging painfully into her arms. “That's not why you sent Natsu away, was it? You just didn't want him to stop you from killing yourself. Answer me!” he demanded, furious.

She said nothing for a long moment, staring at him with wide, gray eyes. Then, slowly, she nodded, shoulders slumping. Wearily, she confessed, “I believed I could kill Ryuji, truly. For Emiko. But I thought his men would finish me.” More softly, “And I welcomed it.” A pause, then quietly, “You're hurting me.”

Instantly, Kakashi relaxed his grip, though he didn't let go. He struggled to force down a gut-wrenching anger. In truth, he was infuriated with her, the Hokage, Enya, Morino, and anyone else who should have seen this coming, but hadn't.

Most of all, he was furious with himself.

Since the age of ten, she'd been slowly killing herself. Kakashi had seen it--the shadows rising in her as a genin.

And he'd walked away.

Yori's words came back to him forcefully.

I still had her to look after me, but she had no one, really.

Cutting words, for she had had him—had needed him--and he had abandoned her. To this.

Well, he'd be damned if he abandoned her now.

Bringing his forehead to rest against hers, the Copy Ninja groped for the words to convey that he understood. That he saw her weakness, and forgave it, as she had forgiven his. That he couldn't bear it if something happened to her. That he loved her, and always had.

“Soriya.”

Words were inadequate. Reaching up to his mask, he yanked it down, breathing harshly through parted lips.

The kunoichi's eyes, luminous with tears, searched his face. “I don't understand why you are still here. Knowing what you know...” her voice hitched. “How can you not despise me?”

“I could never despise you,” Kakashi vowed.

Pulling off his headband, he let it fall to the floor. So close, she was instantly riveted by his mismatched gaze. Slowly, the Sharingan began to spin.

He had to make her see that it would be all right now. He was here, with her. They would figure things out together.

“Suki,” he breathed, capturing her lips in a fervent kiss. Pouring all of his thoughts and feelings into the contact, he overwhelmed the telepath with emotion. The Sharingan held her motionless. He had to make her understand that she was valued and cherished--for herself, not just for her power.

Tensing under the tender onslaught, Soriya hesitated, but the Copy Ninja's raw emotion slowly won her surrender. Weakening suddenly, she would have fallen, if not for his hold on her. Nudging a thigh between the kunoichi's unsteady legs, Kakashi caressed her face, gently stroking away the silver tracks of tears. Her eyes closed and she sighed, relaxing into him. Scattering kisses across the petal-soft cheeks, he tasted salt on his lips. The scent of honeysuckle washed over him, transforming the last of his anger to desire.

Staring down at the face held protectively in his hands, Kakashi's pulse quickened. Their relationship was about to change irrevocably. Maybe already had. Did she understand? How much he needed her? There was no way he could just let her walk away now.

Shifting a hand to the curve of her hip, he pulled her closer, pressing upward with his thigh. The movement drew a low moan from her and she arched into him, fingers curling around his biceps.

He kissed her again, slower, more deeply, trapping her between his body and the wall. Almost of its own accord, the kunoichi's left leg rose to his hip, holding him against her. He cupped a breast, kneading the sensitive flesh through the thin robe. He had not removed his fingerless gloves, and the extra friction, combined with the slide of silk against skin accelerated her ragged breathing.

“Kakashi...”

Her tone was part plea, part demand.

Earlier misgivings thrown aside, she wrapped her arms around his neck and kissed him fiercely. Knowing how he felt--had always felt--she could not deny she had wanted this, wanted him for so long. Could not remember why she'd even tried.

Restless fingers found their way to the zipper on his green vest, tugging it down. Now that she had chosen to succumb, she could not get closer quickly enough. Sliding eager hands under the vest, she pushed the garment over his shoulders, enabling him to shrug it off.

Responding to her sudden urgency, Kakashi settled gloved hands on her bottom, lifting upwards. Pressing himself against her more insistently, he groaned in the back of his throat as she wrapped both legs tightly around him. Turning, he moved to the bed.

Slowly, he slid her down his body until she perched on the edge of the high mattress. Gazing into beautiful gray eyes, he inhaled sharply as mischievous hands slipped under the hem of his shirt. Impatiently, the kunoichi tugged upwards on the dark fabric. Leaning forward, Kakashi helped her pull it over his head. Dropping it carelessly to the floor, she rose to her knees on the edge of the bed, wrapping an arm around his neck to draw him closer. He suppressed a shiver as curious fingers wandered over the hard, smooth planes of his chest and stomach.

In the privacy of his mind, he'd often fantasized about this moment. How she'd feel. Taste. The sounds she'd make. Never, even in his most vivid imaginings, had he pictured the passionate gleam in her eyes, stormy gray shading to quicksilver.

Gazing up at him through long lashes, her lips moved languorously along his collarbone, down his chest. A warm, wet tongue traced the fine line of scar tissue crossing his sternum--a remnant from an old battle, one among many. She paused to tease and lick at a flat nipple, grazing him lightly with her teeth.

Groaning, he tipped her face up, tangling his hands in silky red waves. Drawing her full lower lip into his mouth, Kakashi sucked it gently before nipping and kissing along her jawline to her ear. Tracing his tongue around the delicate shell, he tugged the lobe lightly between his teeth.

“Tell me what you want,” he murmured huskily.

Heart pounding, Soriya reached for his hand. She breathed into his ear, “I want to feel your hands on me.”

A surge of desire shot through his groin as she turned his palm toward her, bringing teeth to the Velcro at his gloved wrist. Luminous eyes stared into his own as she pulled the strap open slowly, drawing off the glove. Captured by her gaze, the Copy Ninja brought his other hand to his mouth, jerking the closure open. With a sharp flick of his wrist, the glove flew off, landing on the floor.

Running bare hands over black silk from ribs to hips, Kakashi dropped his face to her neck. Inhaling the honeysuckle fragrance of her skin, he kissed down the delicate line of her throat, prompting the kunoichi's head to fall back. Pausing at the juncture of neck and collarbone, his tongue lingered over the love mark he had given her the previous evening.

He relished the feel and taste of her, so soft.

Still, he held back on granting her request, caressing her breasts through the thin robe. He wanted to draw out the moment, make it last. Hear every sigh and moan she could make, until she begged him for release.

The kunoichi had other ideas.

Impatiently, she arched upward toward his questing mouth, hands skimming over the sculpted chest and flat stomach. Fingers dropped to the waistband of his pants. Expertly undoing the fastenings, she slipped a hand inside, firmly stroking him.

Kakashi dragged his mouth away from her collarbone, panting harshly. Head hanging, eyes closed, he enjoyed the attention momentarily, a seductive rumble building in his throat. Then, taking hold of her wrists, he held them out on either side of her, breathing raggedly, “Unless you want this over quickly, you'd best stop that.”

Looking up at him with sultry eyes, she pouted, “It's your own fault for being such a tease.” Then lower, “Touch me, Kakashi. Give me what I want.”

In persuasion, she leaned against him, placing open-mouthed kisses along the strong column of his throat. Testing his throbbing pulse with her lips, she bit down lightly, then laved the offended area with her tongue.

Kakashi's eyes closed in pleasure. Loosing her wrists, he freed them to twine around his neck. Shifting his attention to the closure of her robe, he slowly untied the belt and pulled it loose, allowing the material to fall open. Sliding weapon-callused hands inside, he stroked along satiny skin, raising goosebumps over the sensitized flesh. She shivered under his touch, breathing becoming more erratic. He rewarded her passionate response by kneading and caressing her breasts until she moaned, head falling back.

“Is this what you want?” Kakashi asked, voice low against her ear. When her only response was a whimper, his right hand smoothed down over her belly, fingers brushing damp red curls.

“Or this?” he prompted, sliding a finger over engorged flesh, slick with dew. Stroking back and forth, he waited for a reply. High, breathy sounds were his only answer, as her fingers clutched at his shoulders.

“No?” he teased, withholding his stimulating touch a moment.

“Yes!” the kunoichi moaned, frustrated desire permeating her voice. Gray eyes flashed as she tried to form coherent words. “Y-you--!”

Deciding to end his delightful torment of her--before he got hurt--Kakashi's hands skimmed upwards, sliding the robe off her shoulders. Lowering her arms, Soriya let the material fall in a silken puddle.

Quickly divesting himself of the rest of his clothing, Kakashi claimed her mouth once more. Hands moved to her hips, guiding her backwards into the center of the bed. Pulling her roughly to him, he cupped her bottom. Honeysuckle-scented hair brushed his knuckles as he kneaded her curves.

“Maybe there is something else you want?” he purred, warm breath tickling her ear.

Slipping her arms around his waist, Soriya glanced up at him, lidded expression artful. Shifting her weight suddenly, she grinned as the elite jonin was pulled off balance. He let himself fall, landing beside her against the pillows. Rolling quickly, he imprisoned her beneath him.

“You talk too much,” she concluded blithely, wrapping a shapely leg around him. “Put up or shut up.”

“Mmm...” Nudging her other knee aside, Kakashi settled himself firmly against her, left hand fisting in glossy tresses to hold her still. He rubbed his face against the soft flesh below her collarbones, suckling each breast thoroughly until the rosy tips stood at attention. Satisfied, he rocked his pelvis, drawing moans from both of their throats, as he slid over slick flesh.

Wantonly, she pressed upwards, trying to replicate the sensation. He gasped sharply, a sudden urgency gripping him. Leaning back on his arms, Kakashi shifted into position. Staring down into wide, passion-filled eyes, he lifted a hand to stroke her cheek.

“Suki...”

Her lips parted in a sigh as he slowly pressed forward. Though more than ready, she was achingly tight, and he paused to catch his breath once fully sheathed within her. Inhaling heavily, he reached for control.

Dropping down onto his elbows, he cupped her face in both hands, taking a moment to kiss her deeply. He did not want to rush this. Not when they'd both waited so long. Carefully, he began to move with deep, unhurried thrusts.

“Ah...yes...” her voice, high and breathy, sounded in his ear. Slender fingers skimmed up and down his back, blunt nails occasionally grazing the pale skin.

Continuing the slow, measured strokes, Kakashi's tongue mimicked his actions as he planted open-mouthed kisses along her throat. Mismatched eyes keenly observed his lover's response to his slightest caress. Every sigh of breath, every arch of her spine...

He wanted to learn all the ways she liked to be touched. And practice them, again and again.

Bracing his weight on his left elbow, Kakashi fondled her breast, tugging on the nipple firmly. The low cry it drew from her lips incited him to push into her more forcefully.

“Kakashi!” she pleaded, writhing under him.

Gritting his teeth, the Copy Ninja pulled her hips forward, raising up on his left arm. Sliding a hand between them, he increased his pace, thumb stroking her simultaneously. The kunoichi's breath was coming in high, rapid gasps, pelvis undulating beneath him in time with his thrusts. He watched her fingers curl in the bedsheets. He could feel her body clamping down on him, signaling her imminent release. Driving into her roughly, he attempted to push her over the edge into bliss.

Abruptly, Soriya stiffened, small tremors building in her center.

“Oh gods...” she moaned.

He had just enough time to call out her name before the violent quake ripped through her, wringing a loud cry from her lips. Powerful shock waves grabbed hold of him, squeezing; the intense sensation dragged him down with her, until he lay panting, face pressed against her neck. Mind empty of all thought, he could barely muster the strength to move, other than to wrap both arms around the bewitching woman beneath him.

Chest heaving, Soriya slowly unfurled clenched fists. Lifting trembling arms, she ran idle fingers through her lover's hair. Her heartbeat thudded loudly as she wrapped her legs around him, stroking the backs of his calves and thighs with her feet. After a few minutes, her breathing and pulse steadied.

Wondering at his silence, the telepath dared a peek at the surface thoughts of the man in her arms. She was surprised, and a little concerned, to sense nothing at all. Shifting slightly, she prodded him.

“Kakashi.”

“Hmm?” his voice, contentedly lazy, vibrated pleasantly against her skin.

“You're still awake?” she asked.

“Mm-hmm. Though quite frankly, I'm surprised you are,” he drawled. Nuzzling her neck, he added, “You've used up quite a bit of energy this morning. Keep it up, and I might be forced to confine you to bed for another day.”

Chuckling, he kissed her throat.

“Actually, forget what I just said. You should exert yourself until you can't stand up. Allow me to help.” Lifting his head to look at her, he grinned roguishly.

She snorted, mouth opening to reply, but was startled by the huge yawn that emerged. Suddenly, her limbs felt leaden. Belatedly, she realized the flecks in his Sharingan eye were slowly rotating.

“No fair,” Soriya protested groggily. “You cheat.”

She felt laughter rumble in his chest as her lids drooped, long lashes closing over the tired gray eyes. Peaceful, even breathing ghosted over the shinobi's face as the kunoichi drifted into a deep sleep.

Kissing her softly, Kakashi withdrew, settling himself beside the exhausted redhead. Gathering up her thick mane of hair, he loosely twirled it together in a long ponytail, draping it above her head. Sighing contentedly, Soriya shifted, pressing her rear into Kakashi's hip. Obligingly, he rolled, spooning her into his chest and tangling their legs together. Stifling a yawn, he kissed the top of her shoulder.

He was fairly fatigued himself, having been up all night. Tucking his nose behind her ear, he inhaled the sweet scent of honeysuckle. His eyes drifted closed, hand falling naturally to cup the curve of a breast. Feeling the slow, steady throb of her heartbeat, Kakashi allowed the soothing rhythm to lull him to sleep.