-Flashback-

I blinked letting my eyes adjust as Ino flicked a light on, instantly lighting up the dark interior of her apartment. It was small, a kitchen was to my right in a small side room, we had walked directly into her living room. Past the kitchen to the right was a short hallway, a bed room and a bathroom connecting to it facing each other.

Ino had defiantly left her mark on the place though. The walls were painting a light purple, pictures tacked up everywhere. Her living room held an old couch that looked incredibly comfy, a small TV across from it. A coffee table in between, school books covering the black wooden surface.

Looking directly across from the front door you can see off the balcony, an old rusty railing dutifully guarding the drop off. I doubt it would stop anyone if they put any weight on it though.

Without a word Ino left me and disappeared into her bed room, I could hear a soft thump as her bag was dropped onto the floor. Can't say I blame her, the weight from my text books is really starting to make my shoulder throb.

Kicking off my shoes I set my bag down beside the door and walked further into the small apartment. A glimmer caught my eye. Coming from a picture frame on an end table beside the couch. Quickly I checked to make sure Ino hasn't returned yet before picking up the small picture.

"Oh wow Ino look at all the flavours they have here!" I squealed with excitement, my nose pushed up against the display glass. My green eyes were wide in awe as I scanned the large selection of ice cream only inches from my waiting taste buds.

"What kind do you think you'll get?" Ino had her nose pressed against the glass beside me, an equally large grin on her face. Timidly I looked over my shoulder at the two adults standing behind us, the women had dark purple hair. The man beside her had his arm wrapped around her shoulders, brown hair tied back in a spiky ponytail.

"Um excuse me, Mister, can we get any kind we want?" These two are different from most of the adults that come to the orphanage. They have visited me many times over the past few weeks, and have always welcomed Ino as well, maybe they will adopt her as well. He laughed warmly, scratching the back of his head with his free hand. An amused smile lit up the woman's – Anko's – face.

"Don't call me Mister. Sakura, I told you that you can call me Iruka, you and Ino can get anything you like." Instantly my nose was pressed against the glass again, smiling at the rows of sweets.

What seemed like an eternity later Ino and I walked out of the store, Ino had blueberry bubble gum and rolo. I had rainbow surprise and vanilla, Ino's choice in food has always been a bit off if you ask me. Giggling Ino stuck her finger into the soft blue ice cream and put a little on my nose.

I laughed back and copied her, aiming some vanilla ice cream at her nose as well. She dodged to the side and instead it got smudged on her cheek.

"What are you two doing?" Anko asked, we both froze and looked up at her with the now liquid treat dripping down our skin. Spotting the treat on our faces and the looks of terror in our eyes she burst out laughing, prodding Iruka for the camera they carried around. "Smile girls" so we did, Ino swung her arm around my shoulder and I hugged her back, we both laughed as the flash on the camera went off and captured our joyful expressions.

That was the last time I saw her.

Snapping back to the present I could feel a tear trickling down my cheek.

"Saku?" Crap, quickly I wiped my eyes the the back of my hand, holding the picture up for Ino to see what I was doing. "Oh"

"Yeah, this was the last time we saw each other." I smiled sadly, glancing back down at the smiling eight year old's with ice cream on their respective faces. "Anko and Iruka legalized the adoption when we got back to the orphanage, and you told me it was OK to go with them." I wonder what my life would be like if Ino had been selfish and had told me not to go. I would of stayed, I'm sure of it, and they would of let me stay. Then I wouldn't be watching Anko drink herself to death, I wouldn't have been alone for the past ten years, maybe it really was the biggest mistake of my life.

Tears burned at the corners of my eyes, I tried futility to wipe them away and stem the flow.

"Saku it's okay, I found you again right?" Ino looked very confused, watching as I silently broke down in front of her. I can't help it though, I made the mistake of going down that line of thought, stupid. So STUPID.

My shoulders began to shake, my breathing became labored as I struggled to hold back a sob.

"Saku, what's wrong?" Ino looking very shaken now, there was no reason for me to react like this over such a happy picture was there? I want to tell her everything, but how can I tell her that because she tried to give me the best life possible she had damned me to hell. How can I dump that on her? Frustrated, my teeth started to grind together, physically fighting against the sobs welling up in my chest.

Suddenly I felt her arms around me, cradling me against her. Instantly my walls broke down, all the resistance I had built up tumbled away. My fingers clawed at the front of her shirt, holding onto her like a scared child.

"Sakura, it's alright." Ino cooed soothingly into my hair, pulling her arms tighter around my back. I cried into the nape of her neck for what felt like hours, holding onto her as all the pressure in my chest flowed out of me.

-End flashback-

My fingers worked the cold metal of the door knob to my apartment, sighing in disappointment when I realized the door is once again unlocked. One of these days Anko is going to get hurt if she doesn't remember to lock the door. Silently I crept towards the bathroom, making sure not to wake Anko up from her slumber. I stared into the mirror at the reflection looking back at me, bags under my eyes proving how little sleep I've gotten lately. Unconsciously my mind drifted back to the scene earlier.

-Flashback -

My sobs slowly calmed down and turned into infrequent hiccups as I tried to calm down. Everything had finally broken me down, why did it have to be in front of her?

"I'm sorry." I finally mumbled into her neck, pushing away from her. The rims around my eyes were red and swollen, I don't have the energy to feel embarrassment or I'm sure I would be blushing. Training my eyes to the floor Ino let go of me slowly, sitting down on the couch and patting the cushion beside her. As I sat down she opened her mouth three, four then fives times, each time stopping to think for a moment. Since when does she sensor what comes out from between her lips?

"I'm guessing there's something you haven't told me." I cringed, well she hit the nail on the head.

"I'm not sure I'm ready to talk about it yet." The hurt on her face was instant. I know that Tayuya already knows but that wasn't by my choice. I've never told anyone willingly before, not even Tsunade and she see's Anko every time she leaves to 'restock'. Ino wants to protest, I can see it written all over her face.

"Alright well, what would you like to talk about?" That's a good question. Where do we start?

"What have you been doing since I left?" I guess it's the best place to start, maybe her life turned out a lot better then mine. If it did I won't feel nearly as guilty when – if - she finds out about Anko and Iruka.

"Hmm well, after you left I was really lonely ya know? I was told you had moved here so I started to make plans. Plans so that as soon as I turned sixteen I would get a job and prove I can support myself so I'd be able to live on my own. So that I could find you again." She smiled, looking at my tear streaked face briefly. "I don't know, it seems like that sums up the entirety of our time apart. I went to a school for delinquents for a while. They taught us to funnel all of the negative emotions in our body through exercise. That's were I learned to fight as well, and not just in classes." She winked, trying to lighten the mood "I felt so lost without you, Saku, after my father had passed away and I went to the orphanage. You were the one person I felt connected to."

I should tell her she wasn't the only one who felt lost for a long time.

"It took a long time because of my record to get cleared to live on my own, and even longer until they let me move here. I still have a social worker who comes around all the time to check in on me. If my grades hit the gutter again, or I lose my job, then I will have to go back to a girls home or something."

Silently I mulled over what she said, had she really devoted the last ten years of her life to finding me? I had nearly forgotten about her, I really am lower then dirt. If it was left up to me we would of probably never seen each other again.

"Saku, did you want to go home? We can talk another day..." Ino asked, still worried. I must really look like crap right now.

"I'm alright." I really need to ask her something, if I don't it's only going to bother me. How do I say it though? Without offending her? Reflexively I chewed on my bottom lip, silently thinking of how to go about my task.

"You've kept the same nervous habits." Ino giggled as I instantly stopped gnawing at my lip. I might as well get this over with.

"Ino, you know that when we said we would get married we were eight years old right?" There the bomb was dropped, now to see how big it blows up in my face. "I mean, that was ten years ago."

"I know." Okay and? I kept silent, waiting for her to continue... there had to be more than 'I know.'

"And?" I prodded.

"I love you, Saku." She smiled wistfully, running her fingers threw her white-blonde hair, pulling it back from her face. Closing my eyes I let out a deep sigh, what am I suppose to say? I don't want to hurt her, but it's been so long and everything has changed. Not to mention we were EIGHT.

"Ino, you don't even know me anymore – so much has changed..."

"But I DO know you Saku! I.."

"You DON'T Ino, you have no idea what is going on in my life right now. You have no idea what has happened over the past ten years. YOU. WEREN'T. THERE." I growled, we shouldn't be having this conversation when my emotions are this frayed.

Looking at the stricken look in Ino's blue eyes I instantly regretted what I had said.

"I wanted to be" she whispered so quietly I could barely hear her. "Dammit Saku, I wanted to be! I never wanted to leave you! But more than anything I wanted you to be happy, and to grow up not being poor – Anko and Iruka could give you that! I didn't have a choice!"

"Yes you did! You could of fought for me, or you could of come with me. Instead of just letting them take me away!" Tears were threatening the corners of my eyes again, burning against my already swollen skin. This is stupid, it was so long ago why does this hurt so much. "The Sakura you knew grew up Ino, I am not the same person anymore. You're entertaining some fantasy that isn't real. I am not that eight year old girl anymore!"

"I did fight for you, why do you think I'm here now?" Good point.. "You are still my Saku! Just because you have grown up doesn't mean anything, I have too, I've grown with you. Nothing has changed were still going to be a family. Just like we both dreamed! Don't you want that anymore?"

"I'm not gay Ino!" I yelled in defiance, my face burning as my fists clenched at my sides in frustration.

"What does that matter? You're still a human being, what does it matter if you love a man or a woman? Why does everything have to be labelled just so people can point you out as 'different'? What does it matter if I'm a girl or a boy if you love me?"

"It does matter!"

"Why? If I was the same person but I had a dick instead of breasts would you love me then? Do you only love the skin I'm wearing and not the soul within? 'Tis but thy name that is my enemy, Thou art thyself, though not a Montague. What's Montague? It is nor hand, nor foot, nor arm, not face, nor any other part belonging to a man. O, be some other name! What's in a name? What which we call a rose would smell as sweet. So Romeo would, were he not Romeo call'd, retain that dear perfection which he owes without that title. Romeo, doff thy name; And for that name, which is no part of thee, Take all myself.' " (1)

"Ino are you listening to yourself! I can't help how I feel! I don't know you, how can you expect me to love you when I haven't seen you in ten years?" Why is this so hard, my breath started to catch in my throat as I felt everything crumbling down. I don't even know what to think anymore.

"Saku..." Ino whispered, reaching for my hand tentatively.

"No!" I roared back, turning away from her stricken look. Desperately I held back tears that were beating at the corners of my eyes. "Don't!"

Ino pulled her hand back as if it had been slapped and looked at the floor before my rant started again.

"I don't love you Ino! I didn't even recognize you when I saw you in the office! Don't you get it? It was some stupid promise that we made when we were EIGHT! Who ever heard of actually marrying the person you said you would when you were EIGHT!"

"You said you remembered my eyes." Ino whispered stopping me in my tracks. Shaking it off I glared at the wall.

"You're right, I did."

"It's OK Sakura, I guess I was just being.. I don't know. I never even thought of how this would all seem to you. I just thought you would be as happy as I am, and that you would be waiting for me with open arms. Just like when we were younger." Ino's voice shook, as she forced a smile looking up at my confused eyes. I know I should say something but what?

"We can still be friends right?" I asked quietly.

"Of course." Liar. Without thinking I started to chew on my lip again, Ino's words rang threw my mind. I've never even had someone interested in me before, let alone go on a date or well anything. What do I do with a girl that's just confessed a decade long obsession with me?

"Look, I just-" I just what? Urg, I can't think.

Ino's sky blue eyes watched me carefully, noting every movement I made.

"I'm sorry, Sakura," Why is she saying my full name now? I cringed, because I probably really hurt her. Ino shook her head, white blonde hair trailing after her movements. "I guess I never considered... well reality." Ouch.

"Ino..." I need to say something, it feels like my heart is being crushed.

"I get it. Really I do. I let my obsession get out of hand, now that I think about it I realize how surreal this must all seem to you." She looked out over her balcony letting out a deep sigh. "But whether it's crazy or not Sakura... I love you. I can't change that, nor can I change the fact that you don't love me." 'Ino...' "But don't think that means I'm giving up." A fierce smile flashed on her face. I gulped.

-End flashback-

I stuffed my head further into my pillow, threatening to suffocate myself. My lungs screamed in protest. Giving in, I turned my head away from the fabric letting the cool night air wash over my skin.

Silently I wished Anko had noticed as I tiptoed into my room. I knew she wouldn't notice but it still hurt, I still want her to come and knock on my door and ask if anything was wrong like she used to. Before Iruka died she seemed to always know when I was upset without me ever saying anything - my pride never let me. She would knock softly on the door and let herself in, sitting on my bed beside me. Waiting silently until I would give up and cry in her arms, letting out everything that had happened in her motherly embrace.

It's been what, three... four years since she's done that. I sighed feeling lonely, the need to talk seemed to gnaw away at my mind painfully. I could talk to my inner, but - well, first that would possibly classify me as insane. Second I already knew her opinion on the whole Ino situation 'Take her, take her now!' My inner confirmed. Yeah because that's helpful advice to an unsure eight teen year old who has never even been on a date. Wow I'm pathetic, probably the only one in existence who has accomplished that feat. Go me! I sighed audibly and eyed the back of my door, the deep shadows under my eyes glaring back at me in the mirror that hung on it.

Without thinking I let my body guide me as I pushed up from the bed, stumbling a little before I got my feet under me. Twisting the door open I looked at Anko's sleeping form, chest rising and falling slowly.

This is a stupid idea. My feet moved padding on the old wooden floors as I moved closer to my adoptive mother. I knelt beside the couch, my fingers inches above her shoulders, silently battling myself. What do I expect to happen? Anko to wake up completely sober and ready to hold me while I told her about my life? For her to support me and tell me everything will work out? A frown took over my face, uncertainty glinting in my eyes as my gaze looked out over the balcony.

The night always seems so calm, like its free of the frenzied activities that go on during the day while under the sun's watch. I wonder if that makes the moon a better parent, or perhaps it just covers up the foul activities that go on when its dark.

Anko shifted turning to lie on her side, facing me. Her breath stinks of liquor, in desperate need of a shower and a toothbrush. Lying there though... she looks so serene, like all of the pain she endures isn't with her while she dreams.

'I wonder what she's dreaming about? Probably of Iruka'

"Sakura.." Anko breathed. The words resounding painfully inside of my body, tears welling up in the corners of my eyes. I shook my head trying to clear it, leaning forward to plant a kiss on her forehead.

"I love you too... mom." Maybe my luck has finally turned.

The next morning went by quickly, I got up with my alarm. Showered and flipped threw my homework which was thankfully light compared to the amount we had been given previously. I skipped down the stairs two at a time, feeling lighter. Even leaving a hot breakfast on the table in front of Anko, I haven't done that in over a year. Tsunade waved, a surprised look on her face as I raced out the door and smiled at her cheerfully.

Kakashi opened the door instantly for me, noticing my good mood as well he just waved silently, unsure of how to react to this Sakura. I had decided to check the lost and found for my bag, and it was right on top. Shining in its cherry red glory, and miraculously still holding all of its contents.

Inwardly I cheered as I raced down the halls to the pool. Being at school this early meant very few teachers, and the ones that were here adored me. So they didn't mind if I ran around like a frenzied lunatic, swam in the pool or practised volleyball in the gym. Which I have done a few times before.

It feels great to be able to swim again, the cool water running over my skin. Floating on the surface just feels absolutely dream like.

"So you weren't fuckin' kidding. You really do come here before school to swim" Tayuya called, shutting the large door behind her. I smiled broadly at her, flipping onto my stomach before swimming over to the edge where she was sitting stripping her shoes and socks off.

"What are you doing here? Aren't you scheduled to sleep for another hour or so?" I teased resting my arms on the tile beside the pool.

"Har har, bitch. I thought you might need a friend, you did look pretty freaked yesterday AND you went home with Ino didn't you?" Tayuya rolled up her jeans before dipping her feet into the pool, shrieking at the sudden chill. I snickered at her scowl before she plunged her legs in up to her knees - kicking water into my face just for good measure.

Tayuya had on a skin tight black t-shirt that barely went down to her waist. Ripped jeans clung to her legs. A matching black wrist band covered half of her forearm, a baseball cap sat on her head turned to the side. Red hair sticking out underneath, brushing against her shoulders.

"Since when did you turn into a softy?" Even if I'm teasing her about it I really am touched she would think of me, and force herself out of the comfort of her bed.

"Oh fuck you, now you gonna spill it or what?" She huffed. I smirked looking up at the angry red head, she really is rather attractive in her own way. Urg, I'm such a pervert.

"Well, we talked. I think everything is going to be okay." I shrugged.

"So did she jump you?"

"What? No! Ino wouldn't do that!" Tayuya scoffed at my remark, obviously not agreeing.

"I don't know 'Saku' that chick is crazy about you, what's so great about you anyways?"

"Gee thanks." I rolled my eyes "We used to live in the same orphanage, we were together 24/7 for about a year before I was adopted."

"No shit? Huh, so is that what they teach you at the orphanage now? How to be a crazy lesbian 101?" Tayuya smirked, I scowled at her darkly.

"And you call me a bitch" I muttered, setting my head down onto my arms. "Well, we just talked – she's agreed to back off a little but said shes still gonna try or something."

"Hmmm..." Tayuya thought silently, not replying to my explanation. "You got an extra swim suit?"

"No? Why would I have another swim suit?" The question caught me off guard, besides why was she asking me.. I mean uh. Well she is a lot more endowed then I am. I doubt she would fit in a swim suit I own.

"Oh well" Tayuya took off her hat, flinging it with her shoes as she took her legs out of the water and walked away from the pool. She peeled three rings on her fingers, tossing them onto the tiles as she finally removed the wrist band and turned out her pockets, dropping a pack of gum onto the floor.

"Ummm... Tayuya...?" This is giving me a bad feeling.

"CANNONBALL!" The red head screamed, running at the water and jumping into the air. With a massive splash she crashed into the clear liquid. Oh god please tell me she can swim, I don't need another Ino.

I felt a hand grab my ankle, I yelped in surprise. Still blinded by the water that had crashed into my face. My fingers slid over the smooth tile as I slipped down towards the bottom of the pool.

Tayuya grinned at me under the water, flipping me off before swimming back up the surface. I followed quickly, careful to avoid her kicking feet. I gasped for air as we broke the surface.

"What the hell was that for?" I demanded, my pink hair clinging to my face as I sputtered trying to clear my lungs. Tayuya shrugged and splashed me. "Hey!" I protested starting to splash her back.

Within moments we had a full out war going on, soaking each other as the water assault continued and we buffeted each other relentlessly. I laughed mirthfull, ducking under the water to avoid the incoming wave Tayuya had created by kicking water at me.

Following after me, Tayuya dived under the water, grabbing me around the waist; she wrestled me slowly further under the water.

Pushing down on my head I tried to break the surface before Tayuya grabbed my wrist and held me down with her. Oh it's a competition she wants, is it? Smirking I twisted my wrist in her grip, determined to break free as she kicked to the surface past me. Oh no you don't. I kicked at the water expertly, propelling myself after her we broke the surface at the same time. Breathing heavily we both laughed before Tayuya splashed me again.

"Bitch." she grinned.

"Ahem" behind me a guy cleared his throat, I turned quickly - panic stricken. Kakashi stood beside the pool his hands stuffed into the pockets of his baggy pants, a warm smile on his face.

"Er Kakashi, what's up?" The blush on my face became deeper, I know how this must look.

"I just thought you might want to know that the first bell will ring in about ten minutes." Shit. I looked over at Tayuya who was treading water beside me.

"Uh, yeah... thanks." I'm an idiot, this is the second time I've been caught in the pool with a girl.

"My pleasure Ms. Haruno, just try to be more careful okay?"

"Yeah, I'll do that." Tayuya was already at the ladder pulling herself out of the water, kicking her legs out spraying water everywhere. Kakashi looked at her before turning his gaze back at me as if to say 'you lucky dog.' I scowled in reply and he left.

As I got out of the pool I looked over the the riddled pile of Tayuya's belongings. They are soaked. Well that isn't a surprise.. there was a full out waterworks going on. Tayuya caught my gaze and shrugged, flopping the soaked hat onto her drenched red locks grinning like it didn't matter. I couldn't help but smile stupidly, fetching my red bag off the tiled floor.

"You don't happen to carry a second pair of clothes around do you?" She asked popping a soggy piece of gum into her mouth and offering me some. Ew. Shaking my head at the gum I paused, thinking for a second.

"Actually I do, but they've been in my bag for at least a week now..." and probably smell worse then old gym clothes. I left the second part unspoken. Tayuya raised her eyebrow and lifted her shirt a little as if to say 'worse then drenched clothes?' Point taken.

She followed me into the locker room, I tossed a second pair of jeans and a debated on giving her the white tank top or a lime green t-shirt with a yellow smiley face on it. Well.. if I gave her the white tank and her bra is still wet. A blush crept onto my cheek as I wordlessly handed her the green t-shirt, I may be a pervert but I'm not THAT bad.

As soon as I emerged from the bathroom stall and stuffed my wet suit inside my bag, the bell rang. I glanced up at Tayuya who was waiting by the door holding her wet clothes which were dripping onto the floor. Her hair was tangled and still soaking wet under her baseball cap.

"You are so SLOW." she groaned, pushing the door open.

"Well you didn't need to jump into the pool with your clothes on." I retorted, receiving a smirk.

"Whatever it was fun, I'll see you at lunch." With that Tayuya waved good-bye and flopped her wet clothes over her shoulder.

Really? What was the point in giving her dry clothes. Shaking my head I went to my locker to get my books for first period.

I sunk into my seat in calc, yawning as Lee beamed at me.

"Good morning, Sakura." As he smiled at me I had a thought, has Lee ever done anything to me? Or said anything mean about me? Hmm.

"Mornin' Lee, how are you?" I might as well try to be pleasant, worse comes to worst he hates me in secret and Ino will scratch his eyes out. I grinned evilly, my inner cackling along with me. Lee looked ready to burst as his jaw hit the desk, his eyes widening.

"I am awesome Sakura! I am so pleased that you would take the time to talk to me, truly it is an honour!" Right, I forgot.. he is even worse then Ino in the weird factor. Well, maybe not - that might be a bit extreme. Lee continued to ramble on as I heard the chair on my other side being pulled back, scraping against the floor.

"Good morning, Sakura." Ino greeted, I really wish she would go back to calling me Saku... I actually miss it. As I opened my mouth to ask her about it Asuma grabbed a ruler and slammed it against Shikamaru's desk, narrowly missing his students head. (2)

Shikamaru was the only person in the class room to not jump, one girl in the front even let out a tiny mew of a scream. Yawning loudly in his enraged teachers face, Shikamaru gave Asuma an unimpressed look which nearly set the math teacher over the edge.

"So uh..." I tried again as Asuma threatened Shikamaru to send him to the principals office which would mean him WALKING there. God forbid exercise of any amount at this time in the morning. Ino looked at me, a friendly smile on her face, this is weird. I feel so awkward.

"What is it, Sakura?"

"I was just wondering why you're calling me Sakura all of a sudden." I asked, embarrassed. Why does it bother me so much anyways. Ino blinked and looked at me blankly. Now is not a good time to act blonde, come on you can figure it out.

"What do you mean?" Damnit, I don't want to explain this.

"Well you were calling me Saku before..." I hope she will catch on so I don't have to finish it.

"Right?" She grinned, great she did catch on... and now she's going to toy with me. I glared at her, whatever if shes going to be like this then I don't care that much.

"Never mind." I muttered, resting my chin on the desk in full pout mode. Two can play at the stubborn game.

"Alright," Ino smiled, looking down at her notes "Saku." She said my name so quietly I almost missed it. Causing a blush to creep onto my cheeks I started to jot down a few things from the board, maybe she isn't as mad at me as I think she is.

Calc finished without another word shared between Ino and I, she waved good bye when the bell rang and I grunted in return.

Biology was uneventful, I spent more time doodling down the sides of my notes than actually writing. I had read the entire text book when we had received it during the first class, I just found the material interesting. Unfortunately for me, now everything is just review. Yet another brilliant idea from Sakura Haruno.

The lunch bell finally rang and I grabbed the bag sitting on my desk, I had packed up five minutes ago, staring at the clock as the seconds ticked away.

"Um, excuse me." A soft feminine voice said behind me. I ignored it, no one talks to me in this class; its probably for the guy behind me. He gets a lot of female attention. "Sakura?" the voice whispered sounding nervous.

"Oh just forget her, if she wants to ignore us then lets go!" Growled a second voice, obviously irritated. So they are talking to me?

"Sorry I figured you were talking to..." You have got to be kidding. My tongue caught in my throat as I turned around to stare into the eyes of my volleyball teammate. Great, it's Tenten, looks like she wants revenge for yesterday. I scowled at her, not in the mood for this. Today is going too well to be soured by her.

The girl beside her looked nervously between us, noting the electricity that seemed to spark between our glares. It probably looked like we were both about to attack at any second, my fist clenched tightly around the strap of my bag, cutting into my palm.

"What do you want Tenten? I don't have time to fight with you right now."

"Ha, right because you have people waiting on you, that would be a first." Tenten laughed, glaring back with equal ferocity.

"Well no, actually.." the timid girl beside Tenten tried again, being ignored by both of us.

"Actually I do, you've heard of Ino and Tayuya haven't you?" I smirked as she cringed a little at the mention of Tayuya. I love that girls rep, and in high school rep is everything. Tenten opened her mouth with a retort before she was cut off.

"Tenten, just apologize." The girl beside her spoke up, trying to be assertive. To be honest she still looks and sounds as timid as a field mouse, but she got our attention. Why would Tenten apologize though? I mean - sure she was a major bitch, but - its not like her to apologize.

"Fine, sorry about yesterday." Tenten muttered, it was so quiet I barely heard her. "Are you satisfied Hinata?" Oh, so this is Hinata Hyuuga. She has long dark blue hair, light purple eyes glowing with warmth as she smiled sweetly at her disgruntled friend. Her skin is almost as pale as mine, sporting a heavy sweater and loose jeans.

"S-sorry Sakura... she isn't good... with apologies."

"No problem." I'm still in shock she would actually apologize, what kind of powers does Hinata possess? I wonder if she has some sort of voodoo or something. I would love to see what she could do with Tayuya, actually that could be realllllly interesting.

Tenten shifted her feet, obviously uncomfortable – gazing longingly at the door. I grinned evilly, I know I shouldn't but.

"Hinata would you and Tenten like to join Ino, Tayuya and myself for lunch?" I asked sweetly, Hinata beamed and looked at Tenten before replying.

"W-we would l-love to! C-common Tenten!"

"Wait, Hinata I really don't want to-" the brunette protested as Hinata started to drag her following me.

"Yes you do." Hinata smiled "Where are you meeting them, Sakura?"

"Out back under the big tree by the fence."

"We'll meet you there." Hinata waved good bye dragging a stricken Tenten down the hallway behind her. Excellent, I really am a bitch aren't I? If Tenten is that much of a homophobe - wait till she get's a load of Ino. Besides I do deserve some payback for getting hit in the face by that volleyball repeatably.

I rushed to my locker and grabbed the small paper bag from the top shelf, half jogging to the door leading to the back of the school. Feeling positively giddy I didn't want to miss a second of what was sure to happen.

"Oi! Sakura, what took you so long?" Tayuya yawned, leaning back against the same tree as yesterday. Ino looked up when she heard Tayuya address me, smiling before looking back down at the book in her hands. Soooo... no strangling hug today? "You remember Jirobo right?" Tayuya motioned to the large boy sitting beside her, the same guy from the library. He is really massive for a high school student. Standing at, at least 6'5", and pretty thick around the waist. His arms were corded with muscles, I think hes on the wrestling team or something. I'd hate to be his opponent.

"Uh yeah, hi." Jirobo smiled but otherwise didn't give any indication that he even acknowledged me. "I ran into someone on the way out of Biology, I invited them to eat with us actually."

"Oh?" Ino asked uninterested, looking away from me as if the school wall was far more interesting.

"Yeah, you remember Tenten don't you?" Ino thought for a moment before looking annoyed. I hope she has come up with the same thing as I have.

Ino however doesn't seem to have the same ideas as I do. Actually... she doesn't seem to have the same fire in her that she usually does.

"The bitch on your volleyball team that accused you of checking her out and then kept hitting you with volleyballs, right?"

"That's the one." I confirmed. Jirobo perked up a little, looking between Ino and I curiously. Apparently Tayuya hasn't told him much.

"Wait when did this happen? I haven't heard about this! You little fucks - spill it." Tayuya huffed.

"Tayuya, watch your mouth." Jirobo rolled his eyes, his voice was even like this was something that happened often. How were they even friends if Jirobo doesn't like her swearing?

"Fuck off, now common tell me before she shows up." Tayuya prodded, turning her back to a scowling Jirobo as she looked between me and Ino to see who was going to speak up first.

"Tell her what?" Hinata asked coming up behind me. I jumped, surprised I hadn't heard her coming.

"Uh," I glanced at Ino who shrugged in return, thanks for all the support. "We were talking about the rumor about Asuma and Kurenai." everyone knows there's something going on there.

"Well that's boring, everyone knows they are together, just the principal is to stupid to see it." Tenten huffed and sat down roughly on the grass, plopping her chin down into her palm and looking away from us. Determined to be cold and unpleasant. That's fine, two can play at that game.

"I suppose you're right." I smiled sweetly as Hinata sat down beside her disgruntled friend. Slowly I walked over to where Ino was sitting cross-legged with her back against the old oak. "Do you mind?" I asked as I sat down beside her, Ino raised an eyebrow and nodded, moving over so there was a little more space between us – trying to keep personal space in mind.

"Of course not Sakura" I frowned at her reaction.

Then Ino did something I didn't expect, she glanced at Tenten who by this time was staring at us as if expecting something horrific to happen. But instead of trying to get closer to me to exact our revenge, she looked away from both of us and proceeded to quietly eat her lunch. Her blue eyes seemed distant, her body stiff – as if she was withdrawn from the world and deep in her own thoughts.

This was not a good idea, Ino is probably mad at me for yesterday. Why did I think that she would be OK with trying to get revenge on Tenten? Last night I had screamed at her to back off. I cringed and fingered the sandwich I had bought from the cafeteria. My appetite disappearing quickly.

Suddenly I was snapped out of my own world as Tayuya's thundering laugh brought everyone's attention to Jirobo. Apparently Tayuya had told him the story thus far and he was staring, mouth open at Ino and I.

"You are such a fucking prude!" Tayuya howled receiving a heavy whap (3) upside the head "Oi! What the fuck was that for!" Tayuya snarled, rubbing the back of her head. What do you think its for? I sighed.

"I am NOT prude, and stop cussing already" Jirobo retorted, trying his hardest not to look at Ino and I. Poor guy, wish I had known before hand, Tayuya probably did this on purpose.

"You are not my father I'll swear if I fucking want to!" Tayuya snapped, Jirobo smacked her again and they both went down in a ball of fists. Well Tayuya went after him like a rabid dog but since Jirobo's arm length is so much longer then hers he was able to hold her at bay. Tayuya continued to flail and swear at her much larger friend when Hinata cleared her throat to get everyone else's attention.

"So uh, Sakura," Her forefingers rolled around each other as she looked at the grass, obviously uncomfortable but trying not to show it. "how long have you and Ino been friends?" Err.. I should of expected this.

"About ten years." Ino replied when I remained silent.

"Oh wow, that's a long time - aren't you both only like seventeen or eighteen?" She asked puzzled. Tenten seemed to be doing the math in her head as well.

"Yes we've been friends since we lived together in Suna." Ino almost sounds really happy, her eyes clouded over. I wonder what shes thinking about.

Without warning her slight smile curved into a frown and she looked away from Hinata and I. This is so unlike Ino, she seems so.. sad.

"Oh I didn't know you came from Suna, Sakura" Didn't I just meet you today? Of course you didn't know.

"Sakura and I both lived in an orphanage there until she was adopted and I moved here." Ino clarified.

"Oh I'm sorry." Hinata apologized.

"It's fine really."

"I never knew you were adopted." Tenten muttered, trying to look uninterested. I scowled and nodded at Tenten. My thoughts still on Ino's unusual attitude.

"Son of a bitch, give me my fucking hat!" Tayuya spat, lunging at Jirobo's raised arm as he held her at bay. It almost looks like a small dog being held down by an unamused parent.

"Not until you get your mouth under control." Jirobo yawned, lazily pushing her back down when the furious red head had attempted to climb up his arm. I really have to wonder how much of a love-hate relationship those two have got going on.

Hinata giggled and started to pop grapes into her mouth, even Tenten couldn't hold back an amused smirk. It seemed like the tension between the group instantly disappeared while we watched the comedy act going on beside us.

I closed my eyes, resting my head on Ino's shoulder, she flinched at the contact but otherwise didn't react. Somehow this feels right, even if I'm still not sure where I stand. I know I don't want Ino out of my life. Besides all I'm doing is leaning against her shoulder, it's nothing intimate.

Hinata was chatting lightly with the blonde beside me, Tenten putting in comments every once in a while. Tayuya had resorted to teeth and claws in order to get her hat back, instead of simply filtering her mouth for five minutes. Jirobo was smiling fondly at her, so he can't be annoyed or anything. I wonder if Tayuya has picked up on that yet. Oh well.

A yawn left my lips as Tenten started to talk about some boys in her gym class, Hinata had taken up a blush and seemed even more nervous then before. I should probably pay attention, but I just want to sleep – the last few days have been so stressful. Surely five minutes won't hurt?

"Hey Saku." I felt a soft nudge at my shoulder. I don't want to get up yet, surely there's still five more minutes right? "Saku." I wish they would go away, I can afford to miss a class anyways. Go away.

"Just leave her, we're going to be late." huffed a second voice. Yes please, I agree with this second voice – let me sleep.

"I'm not going to just leave her here!" Damn you. "Go on ahead, I'll wake her up somehow." Wanna bet? I can hear people leaving, the soft sound of feet on the ground growing fainter. Good, now I can be left in peace. "So..." The voice continued, don't you get it – I'm ignoring you. Go away. "Are you really asleep still or..." Well I was really asleep, until you half woke me up. Now all I want is to go back to sleep.

When I didn't answer a soft laugh emanated from where the voice was coming from.

"You know, I really didn't expect you to... well - you did make it clear all you wanted right now was a friend." What exactly did I do? Was sitting beside Ino really that big of a deal? Hell then I might as well be dating everyone I've ever sat beside.

The speaker sighed and I felt something run through my hair gently, I have to admit it does feel really good, at this rate I'm going to be back asleep really soon.

"You should of seen Tenten's face." I did, it was brilliant. "She looked absolutely horrified, even Jirobo was distracted enough for Tayuya to get her hat back. I have to admit that big guy is pretty good at keeping her under control, I wonder if there's anything going on there?" Now that you mention it, there might be. Tayuya has never said anything though, I'll have to make a mental note to ask her.

Suddenly the second bell rang, signaling that classes were starting.

"Guess we're late huh? So are you really going to just lie here and pretend to sleep. I saw you scowl when Tenten talked about just leaving you, and I saw you smile when I ran my fingers threw your hair. I also saw you jump a little when the bell rang." Shit. Well, guess that means I've been found out.

Slowly I opened my eyes and stretched out my arms, looking directly at... grass? Wait, I'm lying on the ground? Besides that what did Ino mean when she said she was running her fingers through my hair, wouldn't that be rather awkward if I was lying against her shoulder?

A cold wave of dread washed over my body as realization hit me. I turned my head to look up, straight into Ino's smiling blue eyes.

"Good afternoon, sleepyhead." She smiled. Why am I lying on her lap? "You sorta, uh – slipped down once you fell asleep." Oh. "I was going to wake you up, but the look on Tenten's face was too good. I figured you wouldn't mind since you wanted revenge anyways right?" Revenge, right. So she did catch on.

I gulped and pushed myself up off her lap, trying to brush the hair away that was sticking to the side of my face.

"Sorry."

"No problem." Ino replied, she didn't seem to mind... but I still feel guilty. "Hey Saku...?"

"Mpft." Was the only noise my brain could form in reply.

"Want to ditch class with me?" Er well, we are already really late. I chewed on my bottom lip.

"I really shouldn't, besides the principal loves me, I can probably get him to excuse our being late." Not that listening to Ino read Romeo and Juliet is going to be 'fun' after yesterday.

"Oh... okay..." Ino's face screamed kicked puppy and I had an urge to take it all back, but I didn't. Quickly we gathered up the rest of the trash from lunch and made our way to my, and then her locker before heading to the principals office. All in complete silence.

"Um excuse me" the receptionist looked up from her desk, obviously annoyed already she glared at us from behind her counter. "Can I speak to the principal?"

"Of course Sakura!" A strong male voice said behind me, I turned and forced a smile at our unusual mentor. "What do you need? Oh hello Ino, everything is going well I hope?"

"Yes, everything's fine" Ino smiled politely, "but I'm afraid I got lost and Sakura came to find me. So I was hoping you wouldn't mind forgiving her tardiness, since it is all my fault." Well, good thing she came up with a good excuse because I still don't know what I was going to say. I really wish she had thought of something that would help us both though.

"Of course, both of you are forgiven – how could I punish a new student and my favourite student." Oh great, now I sound like a brown noser. "English, right Sakura? With Jiraiya, and Ino what do you have?" He asked taking a piece of paper out of one of his coat pockets.

"English with Jiraiya as well."

"Oh, well isn't that convenient for me, here you go girls just give this to your teacher and all will be forgotten." He beamed handing us a slip of paper with messy scribble on it. Once again, I owe him.

"Thank you Mr. Uchiha" we both replied as he waved us out the door.

"You didn't have to take all the blame you know." I said to Ino once we were safely out of the office.

"It's no big deal, besides I could have been more forceful about waking you up."

"Or I could of not fallen asleep and then ignored you." I retorted.

"Ah ha! I knew it!" She exclaimed in triumph. Opps. I glanced over at the smile dancing on Ino's lips. Maybe we will be OK after all.

Romeo and Juliet, By Shakespear – Act 2 scene 2 – I know, I know – I love that play what can I say lol.

My teachers used to always do this when someone fell asleep in class. It scared the living hell out of me. Made everyone jump not just the sleeper, but of course I never had it done to me personally * shifty eyes * no really.. never, well not more then a couple dozen times.

Term me and my brother use in super smash brothers when we beat people with the fan. We both yell WHAP WHAP WHAP because that's exactly as it sounds and its really hard to get out of the assault the fan unleashes. We're dorks.

Alright well I'm not really happy with this chapter but I'm sick of editing it. I might work on it more later. For now I will see how it goes and start editing the next chapter for my other story.

PS why is it I get a ton of favourites and story alerts notices but I get no comments? :( I'd love to know what people think, that is why I post this after all. I don't want to whine and beg for reviews, but taking 2 min to leave a review won't kill ya people!

PSS if you want to watch a good romance/comedy anime try ToraDora, it's adorable! An instant favourite! (I tried bolding this part this time since it was pointed out that apparently the numbers weren't working once I posted the story?)

Thank you everyone who has followed the story so far and has taken the time to review! Love you all!