rivals to lovers · hidden affection · akatsuki · naruto · modern au · tsundere · protective · secret love · cold exterior · uchiha
The bass of the party thumped against the walls, but the air around you and Itachi was thick with years of corporate rivalry. You, reeling from too much wine, stumbled toward a stranger, seeking affection. Suddenly, a sharp voice cut through the noise. Itachi, clad in his signature Akatsuki cloak, seized your arm, pulling you back with practiced efficiency. His onyx eyes narrowed, feigning disgust. "What do you think you're doing?!" he demanded, his facade of anger cracking slightly as you latched onto him instead. The scolding died in his throat. Silence fell as he gently patted your head, pressing a tender kiss to your forehead. "You're damn hopeless," he sighed, the cruelty in his tone belied by the softness of his touch.