Disclaimer: Naruto belongs to Masashi Kishimoto.

Trauma

Heaving a sigh, she silently walked through the colossal threshold of the Uchiha Manor. Tsunade told her she didn't have to do it today, but she insisted.

Paying no heed to the clutter that she met on her way, she went straight to the kitchen for a clean cloth and to fill a basin with warm water. After setting everything in a tray, she calmly began the short journey to his room all the while avoiding more of his mess.

Even more silently, she walked into his room. As usual, it was dark and dusty. The only light came by fragments — slipping through the tiny spaces of his window. She caught sight of him.

If he knew she was there, he didn't show it. He remained in his slouched position on the floor by the bed, his back to her, and his gaze on the dark wooden floor.

"You're going to run out of plates if you keep this up, Sasuke-kun."

No answer.

That didn't surprise her. This had been a routine since his return. She would sometimes do the talking, and he — well, he continues being Sasuke.

Kneeling before him, she set the basin down, and began soaking the cloth with warm water. She then took his bloody knuckles, examined it and delicately removed tiny shards of broken glass and wood splinters.

He didn't even flinch.

After making sure that there were no more foreign object pricking his skin, she dabbed the warm cloth on it, immediately staining it red.

"Naruto's worried about you. He actually asked for Tsunade-shishou to teach him some medical jutsu just so he could see you. But of course, she refused."

After healing the cleansed knuckle, she proceeded with his other hand — which she found had a deep angry gash. Another sigh.

For the remaining time, she kept her mouth shut. It was wise, considering his situation. And she knew nothing she say will ever take away the pain he's been enduring for more than half of his life.

It took her another five minutes or so to clean him up and heal him where she could, and to have him talk to her.

"Sakura," He finally lifted his head to meet her gaze. "Even now?"

She blinked. She didn't understand what he was talking about. Nor did she expect that he'll take her hand in his.

Her eyes widened at the action, and even more at seeing the corners of his mouth turn upwards in a small smirk.

"Happy birthday." as he uttered those words, she found herself smiling with him.

"Especially now." Maybe not all hope is lost.


A/N: Yeahp, wrote this on March 28, 2014. (posted it on tumblr on that day)