Hey everyone! Sorry I wasn't able to update my other fic because no idea was going into my head, and then this sudden new idea came to mind and I just had to write it down. Anyways hope you enjoy it! Have a good day!
Chapter 1: Thank You so much!
Plucking slowly the strings of the instrument, she couldn't help but feel a sense of nervousness and anxiousness for her upcoming concert tomorrow evening.
Haruno Sakura had been playing the harp all her life. It gave her a sense of peace and serenity. It also made her think of herself as an angel, because when she was young, her mother used to show her pictures of angels holding harps and bringing people peace and happiness.
And now at the age of 24, she still hasn't outgrown that childhood dream and belief, that whenever she plays the harp, she would be an angel to the audience, and be able to reach into their soul, and at least even for a moment take them to a heaven of her own.
Standing up from her cushioned chair, the musician proceeded to the bathroom to take a nice long soaking in the tub, where she can collect her thoughts and dream of unspoken dreams.
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"Haven't we found any perfect musicians for our company yet?" a mad voice was heard from the top most floor of the Sharingan Corporations building.
"No sir, apparently the people we have been recruiting and giving contracts to for album productions have not been that popular." The calm voice of Nara Shikamaru answered.
Uchiha Sasuke was in a bad, and I mean bad mood. Sales of his company have been decreasing and there was no new musical artist who could bring back their used – to - be – fame.
To top it all off, his secretary Nara Shikamaru has that calm demeanor, and this problem doesn't seem to be affecting him at all. I mean if the company loses its stature and goes bankrupt, then he would also lose his job in the process right?
But Sasuke could never fire or even shut out his secretary. If he ever did, say bye – bye to his beautiful black locks from constant pulling of irritation. Needless to say Shikamaru was the best. With his wits and ability to resolve the companies minor problems with ease, and an adroit attitude; you could say that he is one of a kind and would never find anything like him in Sasuke's world of chaos.
"I see. Can't we do anything like hold auditions for a new pop sensation? Or hire someone to enter different night clubs at night and try to find person with a voice? Desperation was clearly evident in the company owner's voice.
"May I point out to you Sasuke, that that pathetic idea of yours might even lead to the downfall of your company." A small smirk gracing the features of the witty secretary.
"Think about it. You would have chaos and even more work piled up when you consider al those wannabe – famous people out there. Time would also be wasted since you are not sure that everyone auditioning would have the talent and prestige you are looking for. Plus…
"Alright! Alright! I get the point!" The obviously irritated CEO shouted cutting his secretary off.
Sasuke really hated it when his wrongs were always pointed out by this secretary of his'.
I mean, which company owner would not be pissed by the idea that he was outspoken by his own personal secretary. And with an IQ of over 200 if I might add.
And mind you that Sasuke was a man with a pride rising higher than you could ever imagine. So this was not good for him. Not at all.
BEEP BEEP
"What is it Ten Ten?" The black – haired man asked, simultaneously pushing down the blinking red button of his intercom.
"Mr. Uchiha, there is a call from Mr. Uzumaki at line 2. Will you be taking it?" a cheerful yet serious voice questioned from the communication device.
"What does that dobe want now?" he growled through gritted teeth. "Alright Ten Ten, put him through."
"Excuse me for a second Shikamaru." Raising his fingers as a sign to be excused.
Nodding his head and crossing his arms while mumbling "How troublesome." Sasuke took that as an acknowledgment of his pardon from the man seated across from him.
"OI SASUKE!" a loud yell was heard from the speaker phone, therefore making it sound muffled and static.
"I can hear you clearly dobe. No need to yell!" the onyx – eyed man stated with an obvious tint of anger and annoyance in his voice.
"What the h do you want!" he continued going straight to the point.
Sasuke was a man of few words. Or to put it simply he did not talk unless needed to, but that would only require a few concise and frank words. Talking to him was like talking to a non – living object. You could even bet that talking to your pet is far better than talking to this stoic man, whereas your pets give you that sympathetic look with their beady eyes whenever you tell them about a problem of yours.
"I just want to remind you about that charity concert we're attending tomorrow night." The man from the other line exclaimed with utmost excitement.
"S! I completely forgot about it! Was the reply stated calmly by none other than the head of Sharingan Corporations.
"What! You promised me two weeks ago that you would go with me!"
"Look here Uzumaki! I'm busy. You're married right? So why don't you go with your wife? And when did I ever agree with you? I don't even remember saying yes to accompanying you to any charity concert whatsoever. And if I ever did, it would have probably in your dreams or you drugged me into saying a Y-E-S!"
"I'm not that desperate!" Naruto shouted defending himself.
"Then why bother asking me for?" Impatience was really running in the front line of Sasuke's mind.
"It could do good for your company. And Hinata can't accompany me because she's accompanying jher best friend, the most – awaited musician in the party."
"And how do you suppose would this be a help to my company?"
"Well, I obviously know that your company has currently been having a hard time in album sales, and in need of a fresh new act. Maybe you could find your company's saior in there."
"I don't need your help."
"Actually Sasuke, I think that was a great suggestion. It could save us some funds and the people performing in that party are quite known and fresh in the industry." Shikamaru stated, who was seated in front of Sasuke's work table, listening intently to the conversation between his boss and his supposed best friend / business partner.
"Hmmm.." Sasuke deep in thought sighed.
"Fine! Just because it might be the best for the company, and I trust Shikamaru's judgement." The black – haired executive stated his answer.
"What! You're going? Yahoo! Thank you Shikamaru! I owe you for this. And by the way Sasuke in case you have forgotten, the concert's tomorrow night." And with that the phone line went dead.
"What! Tomorrow night!"
"How troublesome!" Shikamaru sighed accompanied by a loud exhalation of his breath.
Concert Night
"Oh my gosh! Where are my clothes? My make – up? My brooch? NO! How can this happen to me of all the days of my life!" a pink – haired girl screamed. Panic rising in her voice.
If anyone had ever told Sakura that she was acting like a nervous wreck right now, she would have laughed it off and said nonsense. Sakura was known to be always calm and friendly, so this was a very rare scene indeed.
"Calm down Sakura - chan." A blueberry – haired girl the same age as her stated calmly.
"How can I Hinata? My performance is like an hour away, and everything's going oh so wrong."
"Sakura – chan! Everything you've been panicking about is right here. And you need not worry since I have seen you play tons of times. I can tell you that you are like an angel when you play, because you seem to enjoy yourself." Her best friend gave her a reassuring smile.
"Thank you Hinata. That means a lot to me. It really helps." Sakura smiled hugging her best friend in the process.
"Ok then! Let's get ready. I want everyone to witness that an angel has just landed here on earth." Hinata laughed with enthusiasm at her own statement.
This earned a small slap on her arm from her companion.
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"How come our seats are so close to the stage?" Sasuke questioned awfully irritated by the close proximity of the stage to their table.
If this didn't annoy him to death, then maybe Naruto's constant ramblings probably did the trick.
"Of course! We're VIP! Ehehehehe!" the blonde – haored man replied grinning impishly.
:Thank you for such an obvious answer Naruto! Sarcasm was filling his seatmate's voice. "When is this thing starting anyway?"
"In the pamphlet it says that it would start at 8:00 pm sharp. Apparently 10 minutes from now." Naruto stated browsing through the small white pamphlet given to each audience member. "I can't wait for Sakura – chan's performance." A wide smile presenting his excitement.
"Sakura – chan?" a skeptical Sasuke asked.
"Yup! Sakura – chan. She is my wife .. err.. Hinata's best friend. We were introduced a few years age when Hinata agreed to become Sakura - chan's manager."
"I see."
With that quick response, Sasuke crossed his arms, bowed down his head and at the same time closed his eyes signaling he wanted to end this conversation immediately and have some time for himself.
Seeing the sign of the usual don't – bother – me – or – else Sasuke, Naruto got the picture and further busied himself by browsing through the given pamphlet.
Sasuke was now alone in his thoughts and his eyes lingered on the ballroom they were currently in. the place was huge, decorated with two main color themes of midnight blue and white. Tables were all around and sets of dinnerware were placed in it. Each table had an appropriate seating for 4 people, and Sasuke can't help but wonder who the other seat of their table was to be given to.
"Hopefully not someone who annoys the heck out of me." The stoic executive thought with much dread.
His eyes continued to circle the room. A stage was up in front obviously for the program, and the middle part was left vacant so to be set as the dance floor.
After fully scanning the room, his eyes turned towards the guests, who were all dressed formally in black and white tux and colorful gowns.
He himself was not an exception with a black long – sleeved polo shirt underneath with a silk black tie and the matching black jacket with pants, plus shoes. You could say Uchiha Sasuke undoubtedly loves the color of darkness.
His gaze this time went to his best friend, who was dressed all the same except every thing was in pure white.
Naruto was still browsing through the pamphlet obviously interested in the night's planned activities.
Sasuke can't help but wonder how the heck Naruto ever became his best friend, when they were complete opposites. Now that was a completely different story.
An announcement signaling the start of the program was heard and the lights all dimmed.
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Sakura's hands were now cold and clammy. She couldn't stop pacing around the room, and many types of evil happenings were just springing into her mind all at the same time.
"Sakura- chan stop it. You're making me nervous too." Hinata grabbed Sakura's hand and gave it a squeeze of seizure and reassurance.
"I've known you all these years Sakuran – chan, and I know how much passion you have for the harp. This may be your debut night. Lots of producers are out there right now hoping to get a fresh new act. I know its nerve – wrecking but give them your magic. Show them what you've got. I trust in you Sakura – chan, and I know if anyone can pull it off, you can. Give them what they came for. Show them the ultimate comfort and drag them into your world of musical harmony."
Sincerity was the real thing Sakura saw in her best friend's eyes.
"Thank you so much Hinata! You never let me lose hope. Thanks for always sticking by my side." Sakura was on the brink of tears touched from her friend's inspiring reassurances.
The rosette – haired lady hugged her best friend tightly.
"Go on Sakura - chan! You're coming up next. Don't worry you look perfect!" Hinata winked. "Good Luck!"
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This show has been absolutely boring, or for Sasuke's case that is. Because Naruto seems to be enjoying it quite a lot with sharp gleams coming from his eyes and constant remarks of 'WOW' or 'COOL' every now and then were escaping from his mouth.
About 45 have passed since the program began and Sasuke was really having a hard time fighting for him to stay awake.
Different performances have already been showcased, such as Chinese acrobats, singers and dancers of all sorts.
After the ear – splitting performance of the shrieking opera singer was done, applause filled the room and the emcee announced the next performer.
"Ladies and Gentlemen, the moment you've all been waiting for, the last and final performance for our charity concert tonight is from none other than the great harp angel herself, Ms. Haruno Sakura."
Suddenly the ballroom was filled with a great applause louder than all those previous performances combined.
Naruto nearly jumped off his seat yelling. "Yey! Sakura – chan's next!"
"Sit down dobe! You're embarrassing!" Sasuke grumbled. "What's so special about this Haruno Sakura that has gotten everyone off their seats." The onyx – eyed 'human' thought. His curiosity waking him from his sleepy exterior.
All questions were answered when a pink – haired girl came from the right side of the stage. Her hair was up in a bun but a few were left loose curled 'til her shoulder. And she was wearing a simple red halter long gown.
She was slowly and gracefully striding towards the large harp that had been set in the middle of the stage, and sat down on the plush royal red chair.
Sakura started by allowing her fingers to glide along the strings to create a flowy and rhythmic melody. Then the magic began.
It was so calm and serene. The plucking and striking of the strings and their timing was exactly precise therefore creating a soothing and perfect symphony.
People's faces were filled with smiles of contentment and happiness.
The room was in pure bliss and everything just felt perfect.
Naruto was for once quiet.
Oh and Sasuke was really awake this time. And oh so many thoughts were racing through his head all at the same time.
A few more minutes passed, and the performance ended with a simple 3 – 2 – 1 of the strings. Great applauses and standing ovations were given to the talented woman, who had a big smile on her face, showing her great gratitude for the people who utterly appreciated her performance.
The emcee was now back onstage saying a "Let the festivities begin!" much to the famished guests great delight.
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"Naruto – kun!" Hinata approached her husband timidly a great smile adorning her face.
"Hinata – chan!" Naruto grinned giving his wife a peck and hug, and turning to the woman, whom Hinata's hand was grasped to.
"Sakura – chan! Congratulations! That was so great!" The blonde rambled on and on also giving Sakura a great big bear hug.
"N – Naruto! Thank You!" the harpist smiled returning Naruto's hug.
A cough was heard from the back and all heads turned to the eyes of none other than Uchiha Sasuke.
"Oh! Sasuke – san nice to see you again." Hinata approached the black – haired man and shook his hand.
"Same here." Came the usual reply of the stoic CEO, grasping his best friend's wife's hand not too firmly.
"Oh! Sorry I forgot to introduce you to each other. Sakura – chan, this is Uchiha Sasuke, m best friend and the current CEO of Sharingan Corporations. Sasuke, this is Haruno Sakura, best friend of Hinata and the best harp player there is." Naruto grinned sheepishly happy that everyone was now acquainted with each other.
"Naruto don't over exaggerate!" Sakura replied a small blush covering her cheeks.
"Nice to meet you Haruno – san." Sasuke took her right hand and shook it.
"Sakura's fine." The musician smiled. "Nice to meet you too Uchiha – san." Slightly bowing her head and shaking his hand in return.
"Pleasures all mine. And please no formalities. Sasuke will do just fine."
"Ok then! Sasuke – kun"
"Well then what are we waiting for? Shall we have dinner? I'm starving." The voice of Naruto whined from behind.
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Dinner had been pleasant and enjoyable. The food was great, the music was great. But most of all, the company was great. Hinata and Naruto were busy talking to each other about who – knows – what couple's issue, while Sasuke and Sakura were also having a conversation of their own getting acquainted with each other.
"So how old are you by the way?" Sakura asked before sipping her wine.
"24. And you?
"I'm also 24. I can't believe we're of the same age. You look quite older to me."
"Hnn."
Silence
"Do you want to dance Sasuke – kun?"
"No thank you."
"Oh ok."
"Gee this guy's a real hard rock. I can't even strike a conversation with him. I'm bored, Naruto and Hinata have been dancing the night away and enjoying this event, but all I'm doing is sitting here and doing nothing. Heck it's like I'm not even talking to anybody with this type of person sitting next to me." Sakura thought disappointment slightly evident in her face.
Deciding to try her luck once more she decided to ask another question and hopefully open up another conversation.
"So Sasuke – kun what did you think of the of the performances tonight?" she asked with cheerfulness in her voice.
"Boring. I was practically slipping of my chair."
Sakura was shocked, and it was clearly plastered on her face.
"E – excuse me? Could you repeat that once more? Sadness and anger was overwhelming her.
"Didn't you hear what I just said. I said it was boring. A waste of my time." Sasuke replied stating the obvious.
By now Sakura's patience was running short, and of all the qualities sweet Sakura would ever have, that is one that you should never try to finish of for her.
"W – what about mine?" hope was still slightly evident in her tone.
"I have to admit that yours was pretty good, but not good enough for the standards of any company. Maybe you could try working for those 2 star hotels, I know you would pass without hesitation."
"Darn it Sasuke! Why not even just for once can you tell the truth! You enjoyed her performance and it actually kept you awake!" He told himself. "I mean this is the girl that you've been looking for to save your company. She has everything. The talent, the looks, the prestige, and yet you blew it all away with a push from your over large ego."
Before Sasuke could even finish his thoughts, a high sounding slap was heard across the room.
In an instant his cheeks were burning red and in front of him was a woman whose face was real red from anger, and her eyes red obviously ready to cry.
Red really is the color of the day!
"HOW DARE YOU!" The pink – haired instrumentalist screamed, wanting her voice to be heard. "WHO DO YOU THINK YOU ARE! THIS EVENT WAS PREPARED LONG BEFORE - HAND JUST FOR IT TO BE PERFECT! EVERYONE WHO PERFORMED HERE TONIGHT DID EVERYTHING THEY CAN FOR THE PARTY TO BE A SUCCESS! BUT NO SOMEBODY HAD TO COME AND RUIN IT!
By now tears were streaming down Sakura's face and smudging her light make – up.
Sasuke on the other hand, was standing there too shocked and speechless. Duh! This was the first time he was ever slapped by a girl and humiliated in front of a huge crowd. Who would not be stupefied at his current state?
"You know what? Her voice level lowering a bit. Why the heck should I care? It's not like this event was held for you any way. It was actually for those poor children in orphanages who need help! Not some spoiled rich dude like you! So I don't care what you think just as long as we reach the objective of this whole party which was to have sold out tickets and have the earned money be given to charity!"
And with that she turned around and was ready to storm off, when a sudden thought came to mind.
She slowly walked back toward the hated man and giving him a small smile saying "Thank you so much!" using all the sarcasm she could muster. "Thank you so much for ruining this supposed perfect evening!"