"Now remember everyone you need to be at graduation rehearsals tomorrow by ten in the morning. The sooner everyone gets here the faster we can go through the motions and get you all familiar with the flow of things. Any questions?"
There was a long pause of silence before Mr. Takaba, the senior class advisor, heaved a sigh. Mr. Takaba was the type of teacher to come across as dictatorially ninety percent of the time, this was one of them. The man had over the course of the senior year picked out certain people to be more negative toward-
"Oh and as a last reminder for all you men, wear dress shoes. No one wants a photo of a guy wearing Nikes, okay? Naruto, wear a suit."
The auditorium erupted into laughter as Mr. Taka gave Naruto a pointed look. Naruto was one of those people Mr. Takaba had chosen to dislike more than others. Shooting out my arm I quickly grabbed Naruto's wrist to keep him from standing up or saying something brash. The dork would regret it later if he said something stupid now and was kept from graduating.
"Relax Naruto, he's just baiting you."
I could tell by the way Naruto was glaring murder at the man standing atop the auditorium stage he was feebly holding his cool.
Mr. Takaba held a look of victory in his eyes at having obviously stirred Naruto up. My hold tightened on Naruto's hand
"Seriously Naruto don't, it's not worth your graduation. Think of Hinata if you get pulled from graduation."
My harshly whispered words went unheard to everyone except Naruto, who finally relaxed into his seat.
Naruto turned to me with apologetic blue eyes before pushing a hand through his dirty blonde hair.
"Yeah, you're right Sakura. Like always."
I smiled at his words, "What would you do without me?"
The words were meant to make him smile but instead an odd sadness crept into his eyes.
"What's- "
Before I could finish probing my lifelong friend Mr. Takaba excused the senior class and Naruto rushed to exit the place. I watched Naruto slide down the aisle of chairs without a second look back. What was his deal?
In fact, what was everyone's deal? For the last month the circle of friends I'd kept since preschool were all now acting like I'd caught the plague, it was unnerving.
Kiba never stuck around to talk with me anymore in the halls.
Sai and Ino disappeared more frequently saying they were a "special kind" of busy. Ino though still made time for our weekly Skype sessions on Saturdays, but that wasn't the same.
Shikamaru never talked more than a few sentences, and Neji and Tenten had decided to skip out until graduation. Heck, Naruto and Hinata even stopped wanting to hang out. Before all the bizarre behavior Naruto and Hinata would ask Sasuke and I to go with them to dinners, but no more.
I sighed, the thought of Sasuke made things even harder to take.
Sasuke and I had dated officially since freshman year, but recently it felt like we were drifting apart. I will admit Sasuke was the guy who made girls swoon, many have, but I was the lucky one to have him. Over the last few years he and I had gotten close. I honestly felt like we'd made progress, however there was still this massive crater between us. Don't get me wrong he made me happy, and I loved him, I had loved him way before freshmen year, but he never let me get close.
I was planning to wait and tell him the "L" word because it was a big step, maybe I needed to use it.
Before my mind could drift any further away with thoughts of Sasuke someone cleared their throat besides me.
I jumped, "Mr. Takaba."
Brown beady eyes narrowed on me, "Ms. Haruno. I know I told you to wait until the others left before practicing your speech, however I didn't expect for you to wait until everyone was gone."
I did a quick survey of the auditorium and sure enough it was empty.
I gave a weak laugh, "Sorry."
Mr. Takaba made a sound of disbelief before gesturing with his hand toward the stage. I grabbed my purse and started fishing out my crinkled speech while stepping around the peeved teacher, he needed to lighten up. My flip flops smacked off the stage steps echoing off the walls making me cringe. I was so happy graduation was going to be outside.
Setting my purse down on the stage I smoothed my speech out on the podium. I tucked my long pink hair over my shoulder and took a steadying breath before beginning to read.
Walking from the auditorium I knew it was well past four in the evening, Mr. Takaba had made sure of that. For a grumpy man you'd think he'd want me to get out of his hair, but nope, he'd forced me to reread the stupid class speech until I had it memorized. Digging my car keys from my purse I made my way toward the senior parking lot with quick steps. Checking my phone for any missed calls or texts I was surprised to find none.
Unlocking the door to my Honda I pocketed my phone to fuss over later, I was going to be late.
Racing toward the parking lot exit I was relieved to find the traffic slow, maybe I could make it. Tonight was the night I got to find out if I'd gotten into Konoha University, a top ranked private university, it was only a forty-five-minute drive from home. Almost the entire senior class was going to schools outside of Konoha. Well almost everyone, Sasuke had still had yet to talk about university. Every time it came up in conversation he'd get irritable or blow it off, I needed to talk to him.
My hands tightened around the steering wheel.
"He's probably still trying to make his decision. Yeah, that's it."
My self-assurances didn't do much to alieve the pain in my chest. I wanted so badly to believe he'd pick some place close so we could stay together, but honestly I wasn't sure. Sasuke always kept me at a certain distance and though I took what I could get from him this last week had been worse. Whatever distance I had managed to acquire through our relationship had been turned to nothing, he felt miles away.
Tears burned the back of my eyes but I refused to cry. Things would be fine, I just had to believe that.
Pulling into my driveway a good twenty minutes later I made sure to take a few deep calming breaths before getting out.
The front door opened before I could even reach it; Dad stood there staring down at me with his light blue eyes.
"Where have you been?"
"Mr. Takaba wanted me to memorize my speech apparently. He was relentless."
Dad's lips lifted in a small smile before he clapped a hand to my back to steer me inside. Mom stood in the foyer with a closed envelope in her hands, my stomach knotted again.
"Is that…"
My words died but Mom nodded with understanding before presenting it to me. With numb fingers I grabbed at the envelope surprised to find two there, my eyes narrowed.
"What- "
"They both came in at the same time."
Looking down my eyes scanned the return addresses of both envelops with a thick swallow. Sitting in my hands sat acceptance or denial letters from Konoha and Iron University. Iron University was located out in the mountains a few days' trip from my home town of Konoha, I didn't expect to get in. Honestly I didn't expect an acceptance from them, I'd only applied out of curiosity they were tougher than Konoha to get into.
Shuffling Iron's envelop to the back I tore into Konoha University's pale green envelope and read.
"Dear Ms. Sakura Haruno we are pleased to announce your acceptance to Konoha University!"
I made a yell of excitement before grabbing both my parents into a hug.
"Congratulations honey, we're so proud."
"Yes, good job."
"Kizashi."
"What?"
Mom began to scold Dad for his less than excited praise but I didn't care I reread the letter. My heart swelled with happiness, I had been so worried about not getting accepted I'd actually made Fire Community College be my back up plan. I jumped around in place as my cheeks began to ache.
Dad cleared his throat stilling me, "Aren't you going to read the other letter?"
"Why bother I probably didn't get it, that place has like a 5% acceptance rate."
"Konoha was tricky too."
Mom's words forced an eye roll out of me, they weren't about to let this go. Heaving a sigh, I cracked open the Dark grey envelope and pulled the letter free. Clearing my throat, I read the letter aloud with less enthusiasm.
"Dear Ms. Sakura Haruno we are pleased to announce your acceptance into Iron University." I put the letter down, "See I didn't even-wait, what?"
I reread the letter a few times unable to absorb the fact that I had actually gotten accepted into not one but two of the world's best schools.
"Holy- "
"Language young lady."
"Sorry, but Mom…I-I actually got in."
Looking up at my parents the two looked torn between being happy for me and sad. As their only child the fact that I was going to college at all was hard for them to take. Normally parents would help their kids back up and get out, but Mom and Dad were sentimental.
"Guys don't- "
My words were killed when Mom broke first, tears filling her eyes, Dad went for the old 'I just have something in my eyes' lie. I sagged, time for damage control.
"I'll just be a little bit more into the city Mom, please don't cry."
Mom pulled me into a rib crushing hug as her cries turned up a level. Patting her back I tried to ease Mom's mood while Dad continued to hold a faux calm, this was ridiculous.
"We're so p-proud of you."
Mom's sudden wail made me cringe.
Dad cleared his throat, "You'll have to decide your class major."
Mom's crying intensified, great. Dad walked to us and finally let a few manly tears break through while patting my head of pink hair lovingly, I tried to smile reassuringly. Out of my blonde haired green eyed mother and blue eyed purple tinted haired father I'd gotten pink hair and green eyes. Odd I know, kids in preschool had loved to pick at me, not so much now though.
Pushing mom back a little bit so that I could take a normal inhale of air I looked into her red tinted eyes and smiled.
"Hey, it will be okay. I'll come home when I- "
"You have to come home on weekends and for all holidays. I don't care if it's Mexico's Day of the Dead you come home, okay?"
I opened my mouth the renegotiate her demands when Dad suddenly seconded her idea.
"Yes, all those. We can throw parties."
"We don't celebrate- "
"We will start."
I gave Mom a weak smile, maybe now wasn't the time for negotiating.
"Sure, okay."
Dad thankfully pulled Mom free of me as she started on another crying episode. I watched them walk to the living room before looking back toward my letters.
This was insane, I still couldn't believe it. Getting into Konoha was one thing but getting Iron too was…wow, I couldn't wrap my head around it. Footsteps came into my downwards line of view and I looked up to find Dad smiling.
"Good job. We really are so proud of you; your mother just needs time."
"I know."
"Dinner won't be ready for a while. Why don't you go relax and relish in your victory while Mebuki calms down?"
I wrapped my arms around him, "Okay."
"Got something stuck in your eye too?"
I laughed, the sound coming out wet. Stepping back, I wiped at my eyes before giving him a quick kiss on the cheek.
"I'll have my phone on me, I just need some air."
Dad nodded as I turned to leave the house. Heading towards my car I decided against driving and just started walking, it was still light out and the weather was perfect. A late evening breeze played with my bangs. Placing my acceptance letters into my hoodie pocket I focused on walking instead of chewing over what school to choose, I could do that later. The setting sun's rays reached out to touch the corner of buildings in a soft farewell gesture. The sky was a mix of pinks and oranges.
Cars zoomed down the main avenue toward home as I stepped off the sidewalk and onto a well-worn trail. Trees lined each side of the trial and stretched out in front of me like a painting, I could walk this blind folded. The trail was a short cut I had discovered one summer while walking around; the trail led right to the local park. The park didn't see many visitors these days because of the newer one that'd been put in a few blocks over. That was fine with me though it meant I could think in peace.
One reason the place had been abandoned was because of its proximity to the street.
Sitting down on a bench close to the street sidewalk I looked out at the forgotten playground. Traffic rushed on behind me and filled my ears as I sat there. Swings showed signs of rust while a warning was posted on the jungle gym advising against people playing on it.
I bit the inside of my cheek as childhood memories came rushing to me. I could remember crying under the Oak tree by the swings when I'd met Ino. Ami, the preschool bully, had picked on me for having a big forehead. Ino being the ever confident gal she was had told me to ignore them; we'd been best friends since.
Every inch of the playground held memories.
Heck, I could still recall the day Naruto lost against Sasuke in their fight over by the seesaws.
Another stray breeze picked up tossing a few strands of hair into my face. Brushing the hair aside I could hear the sound of the letters shifting in my hoodie pocket, I stilled.
Relaxing into the bench I didn't bother to retrieve the letters. I knew what they said, I just needed to figure out what to do with them. The above streetlight kicked on as the sun disappeared for the day and dropped me into shadows.
I wasn't sure how long I continued to sit there thinking, but at some point the sound of shoes smacking against the sidewalk snapped my musings.
"Sakura."
The deep smooth familiar voice calling my name had my turning slightly in my spot.
"Sasuke, what are you doing here?"
Sasuke walked closer until the streetlight illuminated him fully, my heart beat a little faster like it always did. I had known Sasuke since I was 4 and I still got butterflies around him, but how could I not? Sasuke's normally dark hair was even darker with sweat matting it to his forehead and neck. Slightly toned legs and arms were clothed in loose fitting shorts and a t-shirt. Sasuke was the only guy I knew that never looked anything less than amazing, even when covered in workout sweat.
Sasuke's stoic blank mask was in place as he studied me for a moment.
"I was on a run, plus my car is parked right behind you."
"Seriously? I had no idea."
I spun around and sure enough his black BMW sat parked. How had I not seen that?
"Yeah. Now it's your turn, what are you doing here?"
I twirled back around on the bench as Sasuke crossed his arms over his chest. I looked up into dark irises not surprised to find him still watching me. That was Sasuke though his dark analytical eyes always watched, they never missed anything. A shiver shot down my back at meeting his gaze, it felt like he saw through me sometimes.
"I, ugh, came here to think. I got accepted to Konoha and Iron Universities."
My words were met with utter silence; Sasuke never moved or tried to speak so I searched for something else to say. Looking back out over our childhood playground Sasuke's proximity had my thoughts from earlier today crashing back.
Attentively I broached the delicate topic. "You know everyone's going to schools outside of Konoha? I guess they just want to taste life outside of our hometown."
More silence.
Licking my lips, I focused on the old jungle gym. Even after 14 years of knowing Sasuke I thought maybe by now I'd be used to the whole 'man of few words' but I wasn't. Sasuke might like to keep pointless discussion to a minimum but right now I needed him to participate.
"Have you decided where you're going yet? Maybe we could both go to Konoha, I could study teaching and you could study psychology. You've always been good with reading people, maybe even law- "
"I'm not going to college."
"What?"
I turned on the bench to look at Sasuke only to find his gaze moving out onto the playground. That was new. I'd never seen him avoid eye contact.
"I'm joining the military; I won't even be at graduation."
"Sasuke that's…wow. You'll have to give me the address of the Fort you'll be stationed at so we can mail letters."
Sasuke shifted on his feet, "There won't be letters Sakura."
I gave him an odd look that he didn't see. "Oh. Looks like I'll be the only one staying in Konoha, bummer. Our entire circle of friends, including you, are moving out of the area."
Sasuke thrust a hand harshly through his hair before exhaling loudly.
"I had hoped to do this a little differently…"
Sasuke's words drifted off making my stomach tighten.
"Do what?"
A muscle worked alongside Sasuke's jaw as dread poured through my body. The last week or so Sasuke had been distant, I'd hoped my intuition was wrong about what that distance actually meant. In that moment of elongated silence, I knew though, but denial was a jerk.
I shot up from the bench, "Do what Sasuke?"
"You're a smart girl Sakura you already know."
Tears blurred my eyes, "You don't mean it. You're just making excuses because of the distance, but we can make it work. I know we can. I'll drive- "
"Sakura."
I ignored the pleading tone in his voice and kept talking. I knew we could make this work, we were fine.
"No, I know it. I'm willing to do anything for you, for us. We are- "
"Sakura."
The harsh tone silenced me, all I could do was plead with my eyes. I needed him to look at me; to see that we were okay.
Sasuke never looked at me but his fingers reached out to grab at strands of my hair lightly. The familiar action of him touching my hair did nothing to calm my erratic heart like it normally did.
"Sasuke, please don't do this. I love you. If you'll just- "
My words died as his hand suddenly dropped free of my hair, this was it. Hot tears raced down my face in denial as he walked around me silently only to stop directly behind me. A long silence filled the air, not even a car drove by. My heart tightened in my chest painfully.
When Sasuke finally shattered the quiet between us I could feel his warm heartbreaking words brush my neck.
"Thank you Sakura."
Words failed me as the pain in my heart became all-consuming and he walked away. I listened to his footsteps grow distant before his car door opened and shut, I flinched. Swallowing past the lump in my throat I listened to the sound of Sasuke Uchiha drove away with my heart and out of my life.
*FAST FORWARD FOUR YEARS*
Pulling the white mask down below my chin I gave my assistants a look of congratulations. Pulling my fingers free of blood soaked gloves I finally looked toward the observation room attached to the OR to find my mentor. Tsunade finished writing on her clip board before meeting my gaze with a curt nod of approval. Ever analytical hazel eyes studied me for a few heartbeats through the window before I headed toward the sink area to clean up.
Today was my first operation appraisal as an official practicing doctor. I had done countless operations before and had worked with Tsunade as her apprentice, but today I'd done it alone. I wasn't nervous about my evaluation though, because I knew as well as Tsunade did, that being a doctor came naturally to me. Like taking a breath of air being a doctor wasn't something I had to try hard at.
In fact, I don't think Tsunade would have taken me on as her first apprentice, in over twenty years if things weren't so natural to me.
I had graduated from Iron University in under a year, but that was before forcing myself back to Konoha for pre-med school and Tsunade's apprenticeship. Having graduated last spring to officially become Dr. Sakura Haruno had not been by any means easy to do; especially considering I was only twenty-two.
Heaving a sigh, I cut my thoughts short, no need for memory lane at work.
Shifting away from the sink I pushed my way through the OR doors and into the waiting area to find Tsunade. Honey blonde hair that was normally tied into two low ponytails sat piled into a ballerina bun today. Tsunade had also swapped out her blouse and slacks for a dark colored skirt and dress jacket.
"You look- "
"Don't finish that sentence; I already know. I have to wear this ridiculous outfit for a meeting with the board later today at the main hospital campus."
Tsunade's voice was tinged with annoyance as she pulled at the hem of her skirt.
"That explains it."
Crossing my arms over my chest I waited patiently for Tsunade to begin her criticism of my operation.
"I know you're waiting for some sort of long speech, but there isn't one. You worked with the same finesse you've always had even without me there as your mentor. As of today I no longer consider you needing my guidance, which is no big surprise, you were my student. Plus, when I look at your natural ability I'm quite surprised this day didn't come sooner. Overall, congratulations Dr. Haruno on a job very well done."
"Thank you, ma' lady."
Tsunade rested her hand against my shoulder, "Now that the unnecessary exam is out of the way, how's running your own floor been? I know you've moved into your office on first floor. Also remember you can transfer back to the main hospital campus whenever you're ready. Just because your apprenticeship rotations landed you at this smaller branch of the Konoha General Hospital doesn't mean you have to stay here."
I smiled. "Things have been running smoothly, and I'm fine here. This branch may be far from the fabulous main hospital campus but they need the extra set of hands here." I gave Tsunade a reassuring look as she eyed me, "I have to ask this again, but why did I need the evaluation anyways?"
Tsunade dropped her hand. "Oh, you know, stupid protocols. Even as the hospital's director I still have to follow some of the rules, that includes proving my student's worth to the board."
I laughed at her words as we walked down the hallway toward the ER exit.
"Well, as much as I'd like to enjoy an alcohol spiked coffee with you in celebration, I have a meeting to attend."
I watched as Tsunade stepped through the sliding doors and said farewell. I waited until the doors closed before heading toward the recovery rooms to check on my patients. Walking into the closest room I watched as a nurse finished administering a pain killer through the sleeping patient's IV.
"Oh, Dr. Haruno, I thought you'd have gone home by now."
The nurse sounded oddly surprised that I was still around for the day considering my shift had ended a while ago. Honestly, I didn't even know what time it was. Working a twelve hour shift almost every day, and then being on call during my off time made it feel like I lived here. I actually slept in my office probably more than my own bed. Work, work, work.
"Yeah I'm supposed to; I was checking on everyone before I left."
"Of course. Everything's been quiet since you went into surgery four hours ago. Plus, most of the patients are asleep for the night."
I huffed a sigh, "I should have figured. What time is it anyways?"
"Seven."
"Wow. Alright, well I'm headed home for a few hours' sleep. I have my- "
"-phone on you, and for us to call you if we need you before your next shift. We know Dr. Haruno get some sleep."
I smiled at the nurse, whose name escaped me, and waved goodbye.
Pulling my long pink hair free of the pony tail I made my way across the recovery floor. A few nurses and a few other doctors milled around but didn't bother to pass me a glance, but that was fine with me. Walking toward my private office I rubbed a knot from my neck. I never realized how sore or tired I was until the idea of going home came about.
Stifling a yawn, I pushed open my office door. The room was pretty big, considering I could fit a loveseat couch in with all the other furnishings and still have room to move around. The walls were white while the carpeting was a dark coffee brown, not the best colors, but it was alright. My couch and coffee table lined the far left wall of my office while my desk and two chairs sat straight in. A few book cases and a filing cabinet lined the wall closet to my desk.
Even though the office was mine and I had worked hard to achieve it the room was just a room. My college degrees and certificates sat in frames on the walls in place of personal photos. Patient files sat stacked and scattered across my desk waiting to be singed or looked over. The throw blanket I used for the nights I accidently fell asleep at work was lying unfolded on the floor next to the overflowing garbage can. Honestly the place looked to be balancing between clean and chaos.
Too tired to deal with the annoying sound of scratchy coat material during my walk home I grabbed my black Nike hoodie. Sliding the hoodie on I made my way back out of the office and locked the door. I didn't have to lock up, there wasn't anything to steal, but it was habit. Slipping the lanyard of keys back into my green scrubs I walked like a zombie to the main exit; I love being on the first floor. I didn't have to worry about slow elevators or a mile walk down to the street, I just walked to the exit and left. So nice.
The automatic doors to the ER slid open allowing a late summer breeze to caress my face.
I inhaled the smell of fresh air and smiled, it felt like eons ago since I last smelt clean air. The sun had gone down a few hours ago; fall was on its way.
Pale streetlights illuminated pockets of darkness along the vast parking lot sparsely filled with cars. Walking down the sidewalk I headed right out of the ER entrance and began the memorized route to my apartment. My place was only six and a half blocks away but it was a sucky walk. It was times like this that I seriously considered transferring back to the main hospital campus.
Don't get me wrong being placed outside of the hustle and bustle of the city wasn't bad, it just got sort of…well boring. Not a lot happened in this rural area of Konoha. In fact, the most thrilling thing I'd come across during my time here was the time a tractor flipped over.
People out in these parts were usually old farmers or roughneck type hicks. The thick woods, corn fields, and proximity to the Sound border made me feel like I was years away from my hometown. I wasn't really but it felt nice to think so.
Konoha might be my hometown but it wasn't a place I was in a rush to return to. Four years didn't erase all the pain that that place represented to me.
Shoving my hands deep into to the middle pouch of my hoodie I killed that trial of thought.
I was not even half way home, yet my steps slowed to a stop. Looking up, a large overhanging diner sign swayed above me in the breeze. I expected my stomach to come alive at the prospect of actual food but it remained oddly silent. I had been living on vending machine snacks and take out for the last solid week, maybe my body was becoming accustomed to poor food.
Reaching out my fingers pressed against the cool metal handle of the door but I didn't move to open it. The inside of the place was practically empty. Maybe that's why I didn't go in. Or maybe I didn't go in because somewhere in my mind I was still thinking of my hometown and my appetite was dead.
Sighing, I dropped my hand from the door and let my legs continue forward.
Nasty bits of the past crept into my thoughts as I walked on. Normally I could curb the pain and memoires of the past with thoughts of work but not tonight. Every time I tried to distract myself with logic my subconscious would resurrect things better left forgotten.
A one sided love doomed from the start.
Friends who were never meant to last forever.
Smiling parents.
The loss and loneliness.
Impassive yet strong features.
"Thank you Sakura."
A certain pair of dark piercing eyes flashed through my mind stilling my steps. My subconscious was my worst enemy. Squeezing my eyes shut I swallowed past the lump that'd suddenly taken residence in my throat.
'I just need to breathe, I'm fine.'
Reopening my eyes after a little bit of self-reassurance I found myself at a playground. I was a few blocks from home.
I had come here countless times on my way home from work, sometimes to battle the demons of my past or sometimes just to think. The playground was well taken care of; nothing like the one in Konoha. Nothing like the place where my life had crumbled apart.
Spying my favorite bench a few feet away I slumped down into it. The whirlwind of emotions and thoughts that racked my brain kept me from registering the cold of the steel bench.
'Three years and still my mind taunts me. Maybe I'm a masochist and get some unconscious pleasure out of mentally draining myself.'
I laughed aloud at my own thoughts. I hated that even after three stinking years I felt as stuck now as I did then. It truly and utterly sucked.
"Good to see you here again."
I jumped sideways and turned to find the source of the male voice. My heart threw itself against my ribs painfully while I drug in air.
"Who's there?"
The street light barely illuminated me and it definitely didn't reach the stranger who'd spoken. Slowly the tops of two shoes came into view before being followed by jeans, a dark grey t-shirt, and then finally a face. The man who stood barely three feet from me looked around my age, maybe even a little older. However even if he was young his hair was all white, like he'd either bleached it that color or experienced a time of massive hair aging.
Dark thrill filled irises watched me from behind glass lenses. A smile donned the man's lips as an odd silence settled between us.
Clearing my throat, I spoke again. "Who are you?"
"Ah, forgive me, I have forgotten my manners." The man extended his hand. "Kabuto."
I didn't take his hand. Who in their right mind expects a handshake after being a creepier in the dark? Keeping my eyes locked on this Kabuto person I rose from the bench as his hand fell back to his side.
"I don't mean to startle you."
"Of course you didn't, you just enjoy lingering in the dark."
My words came out snider than I had intended but what did he expect. Kabuto pushed his glasses further up the bridge of his nose; for a moment the glint of light hitting his frames distorted eye contact. Kabuto took a step forward and I mirrored the action with a step back. He didn't look like the harmful type but for some reason my body was on the defensive. Mentally I berated myself for not grabbing my pocket knife out of my jacket back in the office.
"Why were you watching me?"
Kabuto's lips twitched, like he was fighting off a smile. "I'm new in the area you see. The last few weeks I have been getting acquainted with this region; I come originally from Sound."
Well that explained a lot, especially the weird vibe I got from him. Sound was known as the home of creeps. I had heard the city was beautiful in its own abstract way but the people who lived there were another story.
"Well that's great and all but you shouldn't lurk around in the dark. People in these parts tend to carry guns on them."
A light haired brow lifted, "Good to know."
Kabuto shifted on his feet and studied me, I shuddered. Normally when a man checked you out it invoked a feeling of confidence, but all I felt was discomfort. His eyes raked over my skin with hunger. Stepping back, I started toward the main street without turning my back to him. If my easy college credit courses of self-defense and mixed martial arts had taught me anything, it was to never turn your back to a perceived threat.
"I wasn't stalking you miss. In fact, I've walked by on several occasions and saw you here, I felt courageous enough tonight to approach you. Would a beautiful lady like you be interested in coffee or maybe dinner?"
I shook my head, "Um, sorry, but no. I have to get going."
Kabuto frowned, "Shame. We shall another time."
My steps faltered. Did her just tell me we were going to have dinner? I mean last I checked dates worked only when both parties agreed. This dude was creepier than I originally thought.
"There won't be another time."
My feet skid against cement and I finally felt safe enough to turn around. Without looking back, I fast walked toward the end of the block and took the longer way home. I didn't need Mr. Park Freak knowing my apartment's location. Grabbing the lanyard from my pants pocket I made sure to look around before approaching my apartment door and going inside.
I made sure to double lock the door before flipping on the lights.
My one-bedroom apartment was minimally decorated with the bare essentials. If anyone were to ever break in they might just think no one lived here, because there was really nothing here. Besides a recliner, bed, small radio, and the clothes in my bedroom closet the landlord owned practically everything else.
I kicked off my shoes just as my cell rang.
"Dr. Haruno."
"I hate to call you during your down time, but we have a code blue."
I rushed to step back into my shoes as the nurse's words, so much for sleep.
"Details."
"Patient is being ambulanced in with a collapsed lung."
"Time?"
I relocked my doors and found myself springing back toward work.
"ETA is five minutes. Patient has lost a few pints of blood and in and out of responsiveness."
"I'll be there in three."
Ending the call, I took off at a dead run toward the hospital.
Sitting in my office I kicked away from my desk with an exhausted sigh. My desk was clear on one half while the other was stacked with freshly signed and reviewed documents. Swiveling in my chair I pulled my high pony tail of hair over my shoulder and began bradding to busy my fingers. The view outside my window was of mostly the parking lot but I could tell it was late, the sun had already disappeared behind the tree line.
Sighing my mind trailed back over the last two weeks.
After my run in with Kabuto at the park things had gotten increasingly weirder to say the least. Every morning now a bouquet of Tiger Lilies showed up for me with a little tag saying: To My Flower. I had no one to send me flowers or who called me that name, so I have no idea who the sender is. I gave every bouquet to either a nurse or placed them in a patient's room; the flowers just made me feel uneasy.
On top of that I always felt like I was being watched whenever I left work. I had started taking taxis or walking faster back to my apartment like I was being chased by a maniac. Kabuto had actually showed up at the hospital one day scaring the shit out of me and I had to call security. The dude was persistent on a stalker level.
I started keeping my pocket knife on me whenever I had to go outside the hospital.
Shaking my head free of the weird thoughts I shot a glance at the clock above my office door, 11:30. A groan escaped my lips before I could even stop it, I had now officially been awake for a whole twenty-four hours. I loved being a doctor but it sucked not having a normal sleep schedule.
Pushing up out of my chair I did some mental math. If I went home now I could get a shower and laundry done with possibly a few hours' sleep before my next shift.
The decision wasn't hard to make.
Pushing up from my chair and trading my lab coat for my zip up jacket I made my way out. I really wanted to sleep in my own bed.
"Dr. Haruno. Heading home finally?"
I gave a weak smile, "Yeah. Hopefully I can get a bit of sleep. How are the patients?"
"Same as before you started your paperwork; asleep."
A small laugh escaped me before I said a farewell.
Walking toward the ER sliding exit doors the muggy summer air hit me once outside. Taking a deep inhale, the air that hit my lungs was thick and smelt of damp earth. It had rained earlier in the day and the sticky aftermath stuck in the air; my nose wrinkled.
Trekking back toward my apartment I felt paranoid, but it wasn't new. I hated the fact that I couldn't just walk home with a sound mind anymore. My newly acquired skittish tendencies would put a paranoid drug addict to shame.
I seriously considered going down to the local sheriff's office to get a restraining order, I just needed to find the time first.
My thoughts were snapped when a loud crash echoed through the darkness. Having lived in hick central for the last two years it wouldn't be a shock if some drunkard had stumped into a garbage bin this late in the night. Though being it was only a Tuesday my mind reasoned that no one got that trashed during the work week. Doctoral instincts and curiosity got the better of me.
The sound echoed through the night once more this time louder followed by two yells.
Racing across the street and between two buildings a large parking lot sat tucked away. Squinting through the dark that the street light failed to lift I watched as a head of white hair moved toward something or rather someone. The sound of metal crunching along with glass softly falling against asphalt filled the night.
"Get up!"
I flinched as a voice filled with such hate echoed in the lot and recognition hit me.
I watched as Kabuto paced in front of the man he had just thrown against a now dented car door. Glass scrapped against the ground as the man attempted to move before Kabuto lunged at him. My body was frozen in place as I watched Kabuto hit the man across the face with such force he was knocked sideways to the ground. The sickening sound of bone connecting reverberated in my head.
"Get up, we both know that explosion missed you."
Kabuto's voice was tinged with laughter as he went back to pacing before the downed man. The lack of response from the guy lying on the ground hit a switch in my mind. Whatever stupor I was in suddenly wore off and my brain processed what could happen if this continued.
Action overrode thought and before I knew it I was running at Kabuto.
I slammed my shoulder into Kabuto's side with all the strength I had. Pain echoed through my arm liked I'd hit a brick wall, my eyes watered from the feeling. Kabuto's feet slapped messily against the asphalt as he steadied himself. Kabuto's eyes turned to me, the raw anger I saw had me backpedaling. I kept my eyes fixed on Kabuto.
I stood an equal distance between him and the guy he was currently hell bent on killing.
Kabuto straightened, his earlier anger flicked out his eyes to become… amusement?
My eyes narrowed; I'd spent the last month avoiding this guy now I was in his space. A wheezing breath caught my ears reminding me exactly why I was in Kabuto's space.
Kabuto's lips dipped with displeasure while his fingers delicately readjusted his glasses; the action momentarily reflecting the far street light. Cocking his head to the side with narrowed eyes I felt his eyes rake over my body, I shuddered.
Kabuto's tenor was even as he suddenly spoke.
"I need you to step aside; there are things at work here you fail to understand. That man isn't worthy of your protection, he's a man that stands in the way of evolution. A coldblooded killer."
"The only killer I see here is you, Kabuto."
Kabuto laughed at my words, "Naïve woman."
My fist clenched until nail bit into skin.
"Leave Kabuto."
My voice came out laced with such warning I was mentally stunned by the sound.
Kabuto laughter died.
Kabuto took several deliberate steps forward to which I mirrored backwards. I wasn't about to let this street fight end up with someone dead; not on my watch.
"I said leave Kabuto."
I could almost taste the anger rolling off of Kabuto whose expression was still of displeasure.
"My Flower you are meddling within affairs that are not your problem."
"It became my problem when you tried to kill someone."
"Stand aside Flower."
"As a doctor I have an obligation to protect and save lives; not be a bystander. It's over."
The creek of metal cut through the air while my eyes remained on Kabuto who appeared even more annoyed.
"No, it's not. Once I finish here I promise we will find a place to sit and converse, I'm honored you finally see things my way."
"For the last time Kabuto I am never going to be with you. In fact, the only reason I'm standing here now is because this man needs medical attention. You backed this man into a corner while he was already injured, and even though he still managed to smack you around by the looks of it I'm ending this fight."
Kabuto looked slightly taken aback, "You will choose me."
I remained silent. They say the definition of crazy is when you continuously repeat an action and hope for a different outcome. Kabuto fit that description. I could tell him 'no' until the dinosaurs came home but he'd never hear me, the dude was certifiable.
Kabuto's anger rose to a tangible level so quickly I tensed against it. Even though he was a good six or so feet away, fear had adrenaline dumping into my veins.
Glancing behind me for a second I noted that mystery man was still propped up against the car with his head hanging forward; shit. I needed to get him out of here before he bled out or Kabuto decided to kill us both. Looking back toward Kabuto I opened my mouth to tell him to leave once more but the words never came.
Pain exploded from my right cheek turning my vision white. Before my brain could fully understand that Kabuto had just slapped me into next week my left side crashed against the ground.
"You will choose me!"
My lungs failed to drag in air as a hand curled into my hair pulling my upright. What the hell was happening? How did he move that fast? I was turned around for a second, no, maybe it was longer.
My brain fought between rationalizing the 'how' and 'why' of the situation while processing the here and now.
My ears rang and failed to understand the movements of Kabuto's mouth. Pain fueled my sudden rush of anger as I pulled my arm back to land a good hit to Kabuto's future kids. The hand in my hair released the same time my ears pooped and sound rushed back.
Kabuto grunted but nothing more.
Ripping my knife free from my jacket I quickly stood unsteadily. Pointing the blade at Kabuto I watched amusement flash across his features, anger roared through me.
"This isn't a fricken game Kabuto, leave!"
Kabuto chuckled darkly, "Or what my flower? You can't kill me; it'd be against your morals."
My heartbeat loudly in my ears in anger. Angling my body sideways I caught sight of mystery man in my peripheral. If Kabuto wasn't going to leave I'd have to wait him out, which given that the guy I was protecting was unconscious and bleeding, I hoped that to be sooner rather than later.
The smile that had been dangling on Kabuto's lips vanished the longer we stood there. Something animal sounded from Kabuto before he moved a little faster than I was prepared for. Kabuto lashed out at my arm to pull me sideways his other arm going to grab mystery man around the throat. Moving on auto-pilot I used my off balance momentum to turn and strike out with my arm. The blade in my hand slid across Kabuto's cheek breaking the skin.
A moment of déjà vu happened then.
I went from standing to the ground in what was sure to be world record time.
I wasn't given the chance to feel confused this time because a hand was suddenly wrapped around my left arm and pulling me up and backwards.
My feet stumbled to keep up with the steadying yet firm hold. I took in the sight of all black clothes and hair in front of me. A mix a hatred and rage thickened the air.
"Get the fuck out of Konoha."
The low artic demand from mystery man before me had a shiver racing down my spine. My feet had me moving to the side a few steps, I needed to create space. The entire atmosphere was too intense right now. I mean for a guy who was apparently unconscious a few minutes ago he sure got up quick.
My eyes flashed away from mystery guy's backside toward Kabuto, I flinched. He was livid.
"Not likely. You, see I quite like the scenery in these parts."
Kabuto eyes flashed in my direction; my earlier anger levels came back. I opened my mouth to tell the idiot once again that we would never be a thing but mystery guy beat me to it.
"I'm not one to repeat myself, but, if you come near Konoha or her ever again you won't be given the chance to run."
Kabuto seethed, "This isn't over."
Mystery man was unmoving, but his aurora spoke volumes. I wasn't sure if Kabuto could tell but this guy, whoever he was, was holding himself up by sheer willpower. Not only that but as bad as his injuries might be he's still managing to throw of an air of deadly challenge.
Kabuto's lip lifted into a snarl his eyes shooting from mystery man to me.
"I'll be seeing you both again soon."
A shiver snaked down my back at his words. I watched as Kabuto slowly disappeared around the street corner and into the dark night. I released the breath I had unintentionally been holding with a slow exhale. Mystery man too seemed a little more relaxed with psycho Kabuto gone and lifted his right arm to cradle his ribs.
Snapping from my stupor I walked around to the guy's front to take in his injuries. My eyes zeroed in on his torso.
I couldn't see much thanks to the crap lighting and his dark clothes but the wheezing sound of breathing told me volumes.
Reaching out to move his hand so I could see further asses his ribs the guy's free hand stopped me.
"What do you think you're doing?"
I forced myself to not roll my eyes, "I'm a doctor."
"I know, but what are you doing?"
Okay this time I did roll my eyes.
"Is it not obvious?"
I could feel the guy burning holes through the top of my head as I forcibly moved his hand aside. Gingerly reaching out I ran my fingers across sticky shirt fabric and felt more than just one section of deformed bone.
"Where else- "
I wasn't given the chance to finish as the guy's legs gave out and he slumped against me. Struggling with the sudden weight I almost toppled over, the dude was nothing but heavy muscle. Shifting to the guy's right side I pulled one arm over my shoulder and then grabbed him around the waist to balance out his weight; or tried to.
"Sir, I need you to help me out here. Sir, can you hear me?"
I shook the arm that was slunk around my shoulder hoping he'd wake. The feeling of some of his weight being lifted told me he at least understood what I needed. Walking back toward the hospital I tried again to get him to speak.
"Sir, I really need you stay awake. We're not even a block away, okay? Can you at least tell me what happened?"
A grunt sounded before nothing.
"Hey, I'm being serious. A grunt isn't a sufficient reply."
"I don't need- "
"Save it. Listen whether it kills your pride or not you need help. I'll clean you up at my office and this will stay off record; no will know. Plus, I'm technically off duty."
"Hn, shitty day off."
"Comes with the job. Now what happened?"
"Can't say doc."
I puffed out a breath. "Fine, but you need to stay awake."
Another grunt sounded, I was beginning to wonder if this guy really knew how to communicate.
We finally neared the hospital after what felt like an hour's worth of walking. Lugging Mr. Muscle around was killing my arms. When the sliding glass emergency doors finally opened before us I nearly laughed in relief. Scanning the area, I was happy to find it empty of patients and staff. Heading toward my office seemed to take longer than I would have liked, especially since I didn't know when a nurse might pop up to ask questions. Not something I nor Mr. Weighted-a-Ton needed right now.
Quickly pulling my keys free from my jacket to unlock the door I managed to get us inside without dropping the guy. Kicking the door closed I let the guy sink onto my office couch with a hiss. Somewhere in the back of my mind I was trying to think about how to get blood out of couch material.
Grabbing the small bag of med supplies near my desk I crouched down on my knees in front of the guy. Without thinking I pulled my long hair back into a messy bun and grabbed the medical scissors from my pack.
Turning my attention upward to start cutting the guy's shirt free I was surprised to find him slipping it over his head instead.
"That works."
"Hn."
Looking over the man's body with the benefit of bright light and no barrier in the way I sucked in a breath. Staining light skin and being smeared across sculpted steel muscles was blood.
"I need to grab something quickly; I'll be gone not even a minute."
Without waiting for some sort of reply I ran from my office and toward the OR prep area. Ripping open the small fridge we kept stacked with blood bags I grabbed two and ran back. Clicking the lock on my office door I was relieved to see the guy's eyes still open. They were hazy but at least he was still awake.
"Sir?"
"Hn."
Yep, still awake.
Grabbing his left arm and lying it palm upwards against the arm rest of the couch I dug through my med bag.
"Sir, I'm going to need to give you a blood infusion to be on the safe side. Since I don't know the full extent of your injuries or how long you're gone losing blood it's necessary."
The man didn't respond other than to make a fist a few times helping to surface his veins. Tying a band around the man's large upper arm I pulled a needle free of its packaging.
"Take a- "
"Just do it."
Sliding the needle under layers of skin and into the man's vein I quickly stabilized it with tape. I was faintly surprised by the man's steady demeanor; it was like he went through medical treatment often. Checking the blood bag I quickly finished hooking it up to the IV running into the crook of his arm.
Getting back onto my knees I went about helping him lean forward before resetting his three broken ribs. Throughout the process the man made no sound other than to hiss or grunt in pain. I caught sight of his features tightening up a few times, but that was it. The guy definitely went through this often.
Cleaning up some of the blood along his left side I found the source of his major blood loss.
A large gash running from just below his sternum down to his left hip wept red profusely.
Not bothering to explain myself at this point I went about prepping stitches. The man had rested his head back against the top of the couch with his jaw clenched, he knew what was coming. Taking a deep breath more for his sake than my own I started in closing the gash.
Having forgotten to put gloves on warm blood coated my fingers slicking itself beneath my nails.
About ten or so stitches later the blood finally stopped staining my couch and hands. The man's breathing was calm and even; no longer wheezing short gasps.
Slowly I cleaned up the dried blood covering his torso only stopping a few times to bandage something. I let my eyes drift over the man's chest noting the older scars that marked his rippled body. My lips thinned at the idea of someone constantly enduring pain; especially to the point of where it becomes normal.
I tore my gaze away from the battered man and busied myself with picking up. Something heavy settled in my stomach, the man was lucky.
Checking the blood bag I gauged how much time it would take before needing to swap it out. Shedding my coat, I made a mental note to clean my blade later.
Exhaustion was starting to set in and boy was I feeling it. Slumping own into my chair I started to pull my hair free when I stopped. Great, I had blood in my hair. What I would give for a shower.
My hand fell back towards the desk, my eyes drifted toward the man sleeping on my couch. The clock on the wall displayed 2:34 and I nearly groaned; so much for sleep. This guy needed to be monitored and my shift started at five, fan-fricken-tastic.
Cradling my left cheek in my hand I lazily propped my head up.
'I could pull a five-minute shower later, plus I had a clean pair of scrubs in here somewhere. I'd need to find them later. Whatever, I'll get- '
"What's your name?"
My thoughts were broken by a deep tenured voice, I trailed my gaze across the room. Dark steady onyx eyes held mine; something close to familiarity whispered in my mind. Cutting my eyes back toward my desk I had to force air into my lungs; his eyes were so much like-
I cut that thought off before it went any further, stop. He was long gone.
Picking up my pen I started to blindly sign my name, "Sakura Haruno."
A silence settled over the office making the room suddenly feel too small. Shifting in my chair I glanced over a vacation proposal with unseeing eyes.
Growing annoyed with the suffocating atmosphere I huffed, "And you?"
"And me, what?"
I looked at him over the top of the proposal in my hands and immediately regretted it.
I felt like I had just stepped four years into the past; back to the night where my life had dropped out from beneath me.
Snapping my attention back to my desk I had to fight against the sudden burn in my eyes.
Clearing my throat, I forced my voice to sound normal, thankfully it worked.
"What is your name?"
"I think it would better I think if that remained much like this visit- "
"Nonexistent."
Signing my name on the paper I was slightly disappointed to find nothing left to do.
"Aa."
The deep tone of indifference from his simple reply stuck a nerve that I had hoped was long dead.
'Stop it!'
I bit down on the inside of my cheek, I really needed to get a grip. My brain started to go through the process of analyzing my stupidity.
'You're just tired. Yeah, that's it, I haven't slept in a while. After a few days of being unable to actually sleep you're just pinning attributes on a stranger. Yeah, that's it.'
"You look at little young to be a doctor. How old are you anyways, nineteen?"
I mentally cursed.
'Great, the first real interaction I have with a guy and he thinks I'm a child.'
Setting my pen down, I grabbed at the patients' files on my desk. They were already done but I needed to keep busy.
"I'm twenty-two. I took a lot of pre-college courses in high school and managed to lessen my overall schooling. I am fully certified if you're worried."
I gestured blindly toward the wall that hung all my certificates of qualification.
"Aa. Steel college and Konoha pre-med?"
"Unfortunately."
My voice came out hallow as times better left forgotten stirred in my mind.
"Why is that?"
Tossing the file in my hand down against the desk I reclined into my chair. The desire to ask him to be quiet fought against the idea of filling the silence. Staring at the little bit of blood still staining my hands I felt a part of me grow numb.
Opening my mouth, I was ready to give the old well-rehearsed response but something else came out in its place.
"Being the first apprentice taken under by Dr. Sanin in over twenty years I had to go to Konoha for pre-med; it was required."
My voice sounded estranged.
"Still doesn't explain how that'd be a bad thing. From my understanding Konoha has the world's highest ranking medical school."
"True, most people would give their soul away to land a spot within the pre-med program. Don't get me wrong attending was tough, but I had wanted to stay as far from Konoha as possible. Actually I still do."
Adding the last bit as an afterthought I closed my eyes.
"I might have grown up there, but there's nothing for me anymore."
The words fell from my lips without restraint and I was vaguely surprised by the fact. Normally I'd avoid digging up old skeletons but I think the exhaustion was putting me into a sharing mood. Yet another silence hit the air before he snapped it.
"I doubt that."
I actually laughed at his matter of fact tone. He acted like he actually knew me.
"Well, doubt all you want because I don't have the time to show you the graves as proof."
My laughter died as the words hung in the air like a suffocating blanket. My parent's smiling faces flashed across my mind's eyes.
"They say high school graduation is supposed to be one of the happy moments in life, you know?"
A heartbeat of silence passed before I laughed at myself and swiveled in my chair.
"What about you, mystery man? You from here?"
The desire to change the topic suddenly become overwhelming.
"Yeah, why?"
I shrugged, "Just curious. There's been an increase of Oto people coming through lately."
"For how long?"
The sharpness in his voice suddenly had me straightening in my chair.
"About a…month? Yeah, a month."
"Are you sure?"
"Yeah, because after Kabuto popped up there was more people milling around town. I mean, out here in the boonies you notice when more people suddenly show up."
"You sound very acquainted with him. Old boyfriend?"
My eyes widened at the mix of accusation and anger in his tone.
"Um, definitely not."
I withheld the need to clarify that the last time I'd been with a man he'd left me next to a park bench.
"Then how exactly did you know his name?"
Something lined his tone that I couldn't quite place. Swiveling toward his direction I actually managed to stare at him unperturbed. Whatever numbness that had settled through me was enough to keep old memories at bay.
"He elected himself president of my fan club." The sarcasm in my voice was enough to make mystery man glare slightly in annoyance. "How exactly did you know I knew his name anyway? From what I remember you were unconscious for ninety percent of the time."
He snorted, "On the contrary."
It was my turn to glare, "Why didn't you get up then? No offense but I got slapped into next year trying to cover your ass."
Dark eye brows lifted fractionally, "First of all I didn't ask you to cover my ass. Secondly, you willingly put yourself into the situation."
I crossed my arms over my chest breaking eye contact.
"You have got to be kidding me. Is this you saying 'thank you' because if so you suck at it."
"No, I'm not showing gratitude. You shouldn't have involved yourself actually."
"Um, I'm pretty sure I saved your life."
Mystery man didn't confirm or deny my words. My blood boiled with annoyance as I gripped my pen. Looking down at the patient file I started to scribble more notes while muttering, "Asshole."
"Annoying."
My hand stilled.
Viciously that single adjective burned into my psyche making my chest tighten. Images I longed to keep buried resurrected themselves with a vengeance. That word; it had motivated me through years of schooling. Pushed me to be more than that. Only one person had ever called me that.
"Don't call me that."
I spoke through clenched teeth while my knuckles went white around the pen.
Lifting my eyes up I found mystery man's expression to be that of…. what? Amusement? I couldn't name it.
"Hn."
"Listen, I did not graduate through all my years of schooling with a 4.0 GPA to have people call me that. I worked my ass off to get to where I am, and I did all my own."
My voice shook slightly as spoke. Onyx irises regarded me calmly, his lips thinning slightly.
Inhaling deeply, I cut my gaze back to my work; whatever bravery I'd had was slowly waning. The man's deep voice broke the quite after a moment and I was surprised by the gentleness in his tone.
"You keep mentioning you're alone, but I still doubt that. How can a young woman like yourself be as alone as you claim to be?"
My shoulders sagged, "Because it's true."
My voice sounded hallow to my ears as a familiar burn hit my throat. I should have ended the topic there, ignoring his question. But I couldn't. The same desire to open my mouth and speak the truth hit me once again.
My eyes fixed onto the wall across from me with unseeing eyes.
"They say high school is the years you'll remember the most, but I would give anything to forget them. You see, all the friends I'd had since preschool sort of disappeared once graduation rolled around."
I forced myself to not share too much, some wounds were harder to close.
Sighing, "After that the fates must have felt I hadn't suffered enough, so, on my graduation day I got a nice gift. Instead of being patted on the back by my parents it was two police officers. Turned out my parents had been killed by someone that'd run a red light."
Reclining in my chair my eyes scanned the room with disinterest.
"It makes sense then that you're a workaholic."
I made an odd face. "How do you know that?"
The earlier softness was suddenly dropped form the man's tone, replaced with detached analysis.
"Besides the obvious?"
A nasty retort burned the tip of my tongue as he continued.
"You keep two set of keys, one for work the other home. You're work keys are either on or near your person at all times, while your house keys sit in your jacket."
"What does that prove?" I finally swiveled toward him and took note of the blood bag being a quarter full.
"People tend to keep important objects close to them. Keeping your house keys in a jacket pocket across the room signifies that you regard your home less important than work."
My mouth went slack, "How- "
"It's part of my job to be observant."
"You call that observant?"
His expression deadpanned but said nothing.
Shaking my head, "You know all this sharing and caring has been one sided. You owe me something."
"I'm part of the military."
He didn't miss a beat. Licking my bottom lip, I winced slightly when I noticed for the first time it was split. Rubbing at my tired eyes I searched for something to say, if I was going to stay awake through my next shift I couldn't fall asleep now.
"When was the last time you slept?"
"Huh?"
An annoyed sigh sounded from my couch, "I said, when's the last time you slept?"
I stifled a yawn, "I-uh… the day before yesterday. I think."
"For a doctor, you should know you need more than that to function properly."
"Yeah, well, no sleep for the wicked."
"Hn."
He sounded vaguely unimpressed by my excuse.
"Annoying."
The smile I had been wearing slipped off my face. Suddenly, somewhere in my tired mind a connection was made and it was like seeing for the first time. The memory of the teenage boy who'd driven out of my life four years ago came to the forefront of my mind before fading away into something more rigid.
Dark onyx eyes had hardened with years of untold experiences, but never lost their steady analytical scrutiny. The lanky teenage body had expended and hardened into steel. Black ebony hair was longer now brushing along dark brows, contrasting against his skin tone. The curve of his jaw was now a chiseled line, a testament that his boyhood was long gone.
Tearing my gaze toward the desk I sat frozen. Gripping the edge of my desk I waited to feel rage or something rip through me, but there was nothing. I was just sort of numb. Slowly I shook my head as one question continued to swim through my mind.
The whole in my chest that he'd help create four years ago pulsed with renewed pain.
I felt torn between leaping over my desk to painfully rip out his stitches and continuing this game of fake animosity. Inhaling steadily, I pushed away the wounded teenage memories and gripped onto the present.
'I didn't spend the last four years of my life trying to move past this shit to fall apart now.'
Pushing up from my chair I silently made my way on numb legs toward the couch. Forcing on a mask of strict professionalism I busied myself. Collecting the other bag of blood into my hand I made work of switching the two out. Curling the empty bag into my hands I stepped back before looking steadily into his eyes.
"I'm giving you a second infusion just to make sure you are back to normal levels. I highly doubt you'll take the entire bag so feel free to use my phone to call a friend or taxi to collect you within the hour."
Dark eyes narrowed slightly and I could feel those damning eyes trying to pick me apart. Forcing a smile, I turned and walked from the room. Slumping against the door I was relieved that the entire floor was still quiet with sleep.
Pouring coffee into the too small Styrofoam cup I wished for some alcohol to add. Alas, there was none.
Scrubbing a hand along my forehead I sighed. I was starting to do that a lot.
Bracing my hands against the small coffee station I glared down into the black liquid, my mind silent.
'Nothing's changed. Just go back in there and act along; he is. Once he's on his way this can all be brushed into the mental category of NEVER THINK OF AGAIN. Get yourself together Haruno, seriously! It has been four fricken years and you are not the same girl. No, I am a woman now! You're two adults, and although smashing him through a wall sounds relieving it won't solve much. In fact, I'd have to fix him afterwards, so yeah, not that. Okay, breathe. In and out.'
Following my own mental instructions, I took several deep breaths before straightening up. Reaching out my hand to recollect my cup my finger paused.
'Things are different.'
Quickly I poured a second cup of coffee and headed back to the office. Opening the door without spilling coffee all over took a certain level of skill. Glancing around the room I half expected to find it empty, but instead my patient remained right where I'd left him. His shirt was back on and I vaguely wondered if he'd taken out and reinserted his IV.
Holding back a smartass comment I reminded myself that this was a game. He wanted to play oblivious then so be it, I'd go along. Made it easier to deal with later.
Holding both cups by their rims I offered them towards him to choose.
"They're both black, didn't know how you like it."
His hand wrapped around the base of the cup in my left hand and I let go. Eyeing the blood bag I leaned casually against the front of my desk.
"Is someone coming to get you? I'm sure you're a big boy, but Kabuto- "
"I can handle Kabuto."
I gave him a look, "Right. So, almost bleeding to death was all a part of your elaborate plan? Brilliant."
The amount of sarcasm that came out of me with natural reflex made me internally laugh. Man, four years did change a person. In my younger years saying something smart or overly honest was not a part of my personality. Now though was different and I wasn't about to hold back, especially not with him.
I bit back my need to smile and sipped my now lukewarm coffee.
"He got lucky."
"Oh?"
Onyx irises flared with annoyance.
"Yes."
His voice held an edge of affirmation that killed any doubt.
"He's a snake that doesn't fight fair."
I studied him over the edge of my cup but didn't comment further. Setting the now empty cup down onto my desk I looked down at my shoes debating what to say. I was drawing a blank; what was there to say? Four years of nothingness and suddenly he'd back in my life under the weirdest circumstances.
Rubbing the back of my neck, "You didn't answer my question earlier. Is someone coming to collect you? I mean, from how much blood is in that bag I'd say you have about twenty minutes left."
"Hn, my driver is coming to collect me."
My eyes shot up in curiosity, "Driver?"
"Aa."
"What are you some big shot then?"
"General."
My brows lifted, "Oh."
Another silence settled between us and suddenly I realized he must be as uncomfortable as I was. Trying to play oblivious was becoming harder than I'd originally thought. Brushing the bangs that'd fallen free of my ponytail out of my face I inhaled deeply. I couldn't handle it any longer. Walking toward the couch I bent down onto my knees; he was well enough to leave.
Removing the tape over the IV I prepared to extract the IV only to still. Warm calloused fingers cautiously fingered my bangs which'd fallen forward again before slowly curling it behind my ear.
"Beautiful."
Closing my eyes against the sudden rush of emotions threatening to take me over I pulled away.
'Keep acting. Don't let it bother you, it's nothing.'
Freeing the IV completely I made quick work of placing a bandage over the hole now in his arm. Stepping back until I was nearly at the office door I faked a smile and tried for oblivious conversation.
"You're not so bad yourself, but I'm sure you know that."
Ever steady onyx eyes pierced me; he saw right through me.
"Sak- "
"You'll need to see your primary within a few days to have your stitches checked."
His eyes narrowed on me before he snorted; my confusion rose.
"Well then, what days are you free?"
"Excuse me?"
"You said I have to make an appointment."
I exhaled heavily, was he joking. Shaking my head, I couldn't deal with the charade any longer.
"Enough Sasuke, I'm being serious. You're healing needs to be monitored so go see your doctor until you're healed."
Dark eyes burned with what I assumed to be satisfaction at the sound of his name. I bit my inner cheek as he neared, making the room feel entirely too small.
"I was wondering how long you'd keep going."
"Sas- "
"As for your suggestion about appointments, I'm merely following orders. I'm making an appointment."
I reached for the door my grip tight around the handle but I never managed to open it. Sasuke leaned against the door one arm outstretched, I glared at him.
"It's time for you to leave."
An arrogant smirk ghosted his lips; he was enjoying this.
"I already have one problematic person to deal with I don't need two."
His expression flipped then hardening at my words.
"Speaking of which you shouldn't be out walking al- "
"I don't need you to tell me how to live my life. I've survived on my own for four years without your help, I don't need it now."
The coldness in my voice hopefully mirrored the same chill in my eyes. How dare he act like he gives an actual care.
A muscle popped along the side of his Sasuke's jaw as he steadily stared at me his ever steady eyes pinning me. Inching a step closer Sasuke had effectively cornered me between the door and his body of sheer steel muscle. Keeping my eyes trained to his I watched as he bent further down so that our noses were level. Pitch black bangs fell forward slightly making dark eyes shadowed and all the more intimidating.
"I'm telling you this for your own sake; Kabuto is dangerous. If given the chance, he will hurt you if not kill you without so much as blinking. Do not ever think less of him."
The low matter of fact tenor of Sasuke's voice made me swallow thickly. My calm finally failed with his words.
"Why do you care Sasuke, it's been four years."
"I'm not saying this for my health Sakura I'm saying this because- "
"I'll make a mental note. Now, get out of my office."
I mentally flinched at the level of annoyance rolling from Sasuke in waves as my words cut into his. Heartbeats of silence passed before he finally pulled back dropping his hand from the door but never losing eye contact.
"Good."
Cutting my eyes away I moved to jerk open the door.
"I still need to schedule an appointment."
Walking out the office without a word my steps carried me to the ER entrance doors. The sun was raising already as I looked out the glass doors past an idling blacked out vehicle. Hugging myself I almost jumped from my skin when a hand lightly touched my shoulder, I never turned around. I had never heard Sasuke's steps but I knew it was his hand on my shoulder. The way my skin warmed to his touch was not comparable to anyone else.
"Sakura- "
"I'm usually always here just wait in my office and someone will page me. Have a good evening."
Stepping forward to create space his hand fell from my shoulder. I watched from my peripheral as he rounded me until we were face to face once more. The senor on the ER doors picked up Sasuke's proximity and opened; fresh crisp air fought against the sterile smell of the hospital.
The silence that passed between us was filled with things unspoken and I hoped it would remain that way. Hugging myself more tightly I stared at his collar bones which peeked above the V of his black shirt.
I frustrated sigh left him before he turned and walked out into the cool morning. As the doors sealed shut once more a massive puff of air left me as I relaxed. Having him so close after so long and after so much left my muscles feeling cramped. Inhaling slowly the black car which Sasuke had swiftly entered finally pulled away into the rising new day.
Closing my eyes, I mentally tried to calm myself with little success.
The universe truly hated me.
Four years and the one person that rattles my stability the most has returned. I bit my lip trying hard to ignore the mix of hope and torment that assaulted my being as I stood where he'd left me. Again.
"Dr. Haruno?"
The sound of my honorary title salvaged my sanity and within an instant my walls flew into place. Turning to face a floor nurse I smiled with such practiced validity I was mentally disgusted by it. I had gotten so good at hiding and living behind this mask it became a burden to hold sometimes.
"Yes?"
My voice was sound professionalism never giving way to the wavering emotion beneath.
"Are you alright?"
The look of true concern riddling her face made my mask crack slightly, a frown pulling at my lips. Looking down at myself I noticed the reason for her concern. Just then the copper smell hit me as my eyes drank in the sight of blood marking my scrubs, hands, and possibly hair.
"Oh, yes I'm fine."
Switching the smile back into place and redirecting my gaze I gave my practiced laugh.
"I was restocking the blood bags in the OR and a few of them somehow managed to break open."
The lie came to me without hesitation. It covered the explanation of missing stock and my clothes. The short blonde hair brown eyed nurse smiled at my words.
"Is you lip okay?"
I blinked, "I bit my lip to hard in thought."
Mentally I was glad my cheek hadn't swollen yet that would be harder to explain. I needed to make a stop at the store on break or cover-up.
"Oh, I was worried you were hurt. I thought I heard you'd gone home though?"
"Yes, well you know me."
My words did the trick earning a laugh that said she believed every word of my tale. I watched the nurse walk away to begin her duties before I to turned toward the locker room to get ready for the day. My legs worked on numb legs to carry me around while my mind split itself between thoughts.
I didn't need to look at my reflection to know blood covered a good section of it. Flipping on the hot water steam immediately filled the room as I stripped. The scolding water hit my skin causing a hiss to leave me as dirt and blood was cleaned away from my torn lip and bruised cheek. My mind blanked out then going through the motions of scrubbing here and there along my body. Most people showered to think; it had the reverse effect on me.
For those few beautiful moments my mind was bare of things.
Rinsing my long pink hair for a final time I slowly forced myself to think of only work. It was my coping mechanism, ignore everything else.
Flipping the water off I busied myself with dressing and mentally scanning every patient file I had gone over. Diving into work blocked out everything before and would continue to do so; today was just another day.
Author's Note:
Those of you reading this and wondering about Dark Angel please take a look at my profile. I'm still working on it however I won't lie it's a slow process given that I have lots going on and that my mind is full of none Dark Angel ideas as well that I needed to get down.
When writing it is beneficial to sometimes write about something else in order to stoke my imagination for ideas which I need in order to write more of Dark Angel. I know a lot of you have feelings that are very ranged, I accept that. I am trying through please be patient with me my life is very chaotic at the moment.
I wanted to at least give you something to fill your time with though as a sign of good faith.
Please feel free to review or PM me. Again apologies to you fans you are all amazing and I couldn't do this without you.
Let me know your thoughts regarding my new story addition, please and thank you.
Until next update readers….