Disclaimer: Naruto characters are exclusive property of Kishimoto Masashi.
Chapter 4 – The Press Conference
It was finally Friday, which meant we'd be leaving for home earlier than usual. Friday was the shortest day of the week for me. Thank you Kami – sama!
It's been days since I last was Sakura, so I was naturally worried about her. These past days had seemed with no ending without her. Besides, tomorrow was her big day.
She was going to be announced as the new head of the Haruno family and the hospitals as well.
I wander what she might be thinking now. I wanted to text her many times, but since she said she was going to be very busy, I didn't. I didn't want to cause any trouble.
So I waited.
"And then, that's the best way to do it. Yamanaka, can you please explain what I just said?" my professor spoke getting my attention.
"Ahh… well, in this situation… I think… ehh…" my mind was blank. I had no idea what he had just said, I could barely remember today´s lesson, even the subject.
"Yamanaka, what's happened to you these days? You're always distracted, you don't talk, and you don't answer my questions. I hope this is only temporary"
"H-Hai Asuma sensei. It won't happen again" I answered taking my gaze down and feeling embarrassed. All week's been the same with other teachers as well. I must find a way not to get distracted.
"Alright, as I was saying…"
Ring. The bell had just concluded the day.
"Mhm, fine. That's all for now everybody. Have a good weekend and remember to do your homework. See you next class" he finished saying.
We all rushed to get out, and just as I exited somebody called for me, stopping me in my tracks.
"Oi blondie, where are you going so rushed, don't you wait for me anymore?" Tenten asked me crossing he arms and smirking. We were at the same building on Fridays, so it was easy to find each other.
"Awwhh Tenten. You won't leave for three more hours, I don't want to wait that long. I'll be bored being by myself" I said with appealing eyes. She's my best friend, but just thinking that I'd have to wait three more hours to go home, well… it's not nice.
Tenten could only burst in laughter "I know, I know. I'm just teasing you. Not even I'd wait that long" she said lifting her shoulders. I sighed in relief.
"So tell me, is your girl ready for the big event tomorrow?" a blush spread on my cheeks when she said 'your girl', though not so much anymore. Tenten had made sure it was a habit to identify Sakura like that.
"Mhm, I don't understand why you insist in calling Sakura like that. I've told you a thousand times we're not going out" I told her sighing and shaking my head in disproval. "And as for your question, the truth is that I don't know. I haven't spoken to her in days, I thought it'd be better to let her get prepared"
"Ahh, but you know whom I'm talking about" she mocked me crossing her arms. "But either way Ino, I'm certain it's only matter of time before you two get somewhere. Starting with you of course, you need to let her know you're interested in her as more than a friend. Be the man this time" she finally told me looking straight at my eyes.
I felt my heart beats increasing as I took my gaze down with a blush on my cheeks once again.
I've dated a couple of girls before, but they were just to kill the time. It never got serious.
But it's Sakura we're talking about now. I couldn't help but feeling nervous at the possible reaction she would have. I don't even know if she likes me, or girls even! Ahh! I hate this.
"Well, are you going to ask her out at least?" Tenten asked me. Eyes set on my own. She wouldn't let go until I'd answer.
"Ehh well, I think… I don't know. I don't think it's a good idea" I answered unsure while letting my shoulders fall and keeping my eyes on the ground.
"Why do you say that?" confusion in her voice. I shivered a little trying to find the correct words.
"B-Because I don't know what to expect. The only times I've gone out with somebody had been because I was asked out and because I already knew they liked me and just wanted to have a good time. But now everything is new. I don't know what Sakura thinks of me yet and I don't want to rush things" I finally said taking my eyes to her.
"Aww that's cute. You're so in love you don't want to be rejected. Now I understand why you haven't gone out with her" her words made me feel butterflies in my stomach and a blush to spread in my cheeks.
"I-I'm not in love Tenten, I admit I like her but I'm not… oh well… maybe… it's just… ahhh" my frustration got out as I pressed my face against my hands. Although I was sure Tenten would see my redden ears.
A few seconds passed and I heard her laughter. Her hands were now covering my own, to then take them away from my face. I was still crimson and my eyes were closed trying to avoid eye contact. But of course it wouldn't last long.
"Ino, open your eyes" her voice soft and the grip on my hands firm. Afterwards, my eyes locked with hers and saw her wide smile.
"It's funny you act this way, nervous and insecure, when you're actually the opposite" she said while letting my hands go and giggling.
"I still think you should ask her out. Besides, Sakura doesn't seem to be the type of person who would just turn you down. She'll at least give you a chance, I'm sure of it"
It's true, Sakura is very sweet. Maybe I should ask her out, or not, maybe…? Ahhh damn it, here we go again!
The bell rang announcing the next class.
"Nooooo why so fast? Ahhhh" I laughed at my friend's reaction. She could sometimes be childish with her disgusts.
"I better go. I was already late for other classes and the professor won't be happy if it happens again" my best friend said leaving for her next class.
"You must get going then" I answered quickly. She nodded "See you later Ino. Tell your girl I wish her the best of luck for tomorrow" after that she was gone. I laughed to her comment.
I went to my locker and made sure to only take the necessary. Fifteen minutes later a left for home, thinking that maybe I could text Sakura to know how everything was going. Just being curious of course, just that.
It had been five hours, five long and eternal hours and I still had no answer for a text that said 'Hey you. How's everything going, ready for tomorrow?' I was going insane.
I was now on my bed doing nothing. It was already five o'clock in the afternoon and I didn't have plans to go out. I was hoping Sakura would answer my text but it seemed it wasn't likely. So after thinking about it I decided to invite my friends to hang out or go to the movies.
When suddenly my cellphone rang.
"Moshi moshi!" I practically jumped out of the bed to answer. My heart was racing. My voice louder than usual. I didn't get to see who was calling, but I wished it was Sakura.
"Hello Ino" I found it strange to listen to that voice. It wasn't Sakura I after all, but it was pretty close.
It was Taizo.
"Eh Ino?" He said after not getting and answer. I instantly reacted and spoke.
"Hello Taizo. I'm sorry, I wasn't inspecting your call. Can I help you with anything?" I asked not knowing what to expect.
"I'm just calling to give you a message from onee - chan. She wants to apologize for not texting you back but grandfather hasn't let her get some rest all day. She probably won't be able to talk to you until tomorrow after everything is finished" he was direct with her message. He surely was with her as well.
"I'll be having her cell phone for the rest of the day, so if you want to tell her something I'll let her know or if something comes up I'll tell you, alright?" he continued saying. After taking his words in I answered.
"Just tell her I wish her good luck tomorrow. I hope everything goes alright and that Tenten wishes the same" I said a little amused remembering my best friend.
"Thank you for letting me know, I'll talk to her later" I finished saying.
"No problem, see you soon" after that, the phone call was over.
I let out a long sigh. Everything seemed going right so there was nothing to worry about. Although I had to wait more time to speak to the pink-haired who wouldn't leave my thoughts.
"Now, what was I doing? Ah, right the guys" I took my cellphone once more and made some calls.
"It has been a waste of money" Kiba and Chouji you said while sighing.
"I have to agree with them. The story didn't even have any sense. How troublesome" Shikamaru said supporting them.
"We already understood, thank you. Next time somebody else chooses the movie. I won't ever do it again" Tenten said rolling her eyes.
I could only laugh before the situation. I was going to make a comment similar to the guys but I thought that was enough for poor Tenten.
"So, what do you think if we go to my house for a while? It's still nine o'clock. We could watch a movie...eh, well... better" I said trying not to make Tenten feel bad. She glared at me. It seems I failed.
After we all agreed, we went to my house.
"Make yourselves at home. I'll be back in a minute" I told my friends and then went to my parents.
"Mom, dad?" I opened the door of their bedroom slowly. They were both on the bed, my father was sitting against the head of the bed and my mother was laying down.
I saw my father stroking my mother's hair who was already asleep.
"Hello princess, how was the movie?" my father asked noticing my presence.
"I'm going to say it like this. Aw-ful" I said with disgust. My father laughed before my reaction. "So I invited them here to watch another one better. I hope you don't mind" I said taking my gaze to the sleeping form on the bed.
My father followed my gaze "Of course not princes, your mother is already sleeping and I was about to do the same" he answered.
"Is she feeling better?" my father understood instantly and turned to me.
"She is still feeling a little weak, but it must be because of the medicine. Soon, she will be better" his voice not so convincing while turning his gaze to my mother once again.
I didn't know if I could trust my father's words anymore. It's been days, and my mother wasn't getting better. If things didn't change soon, I would have to take Sakura's word and talk to her.
"I see. I'll let you rest then. Good night" I told him. "Good night princess" was all my father said while nodding and I exited the room.
I stood for a while outside of the room, just standing there thinking about my mother when a voice coming from the living room got my attention.
"Oi Ino, hurry up. I think you'd want to see this" Kiba nearly yelled taking me out of my thoughts.
"Coming" was my quick response while going with them.
When I go to the living room, the TV was on and everyone had their attention on it. After remembering Kiba's words, I did the same.
"...mission about the Haruno family. There"ll be the head of all the hospitals belonging to the family, Haruno Kiyoshi, who will also make an announcement to the public. If you want to know more, join us tomorrow on our live transmission at 10 o'clock in the morning" the reporter said as a picture of Sakura's grandfather was shown. White hair, light blue eyes with glasses on them and tanned skin. I knew about him, but this was the very first time I ever saw his face.
"It seems it's already done. Your girlfriend's family will be officially back tomorrow morning" Kiba commented after a while.
"Yeah I guess so" I said rolling my eyes.
"What, you're not even going to deny it anymore?" Chouji asked surprised.
"As if it would make any difference" I answered lifting my shoulders with a small pout on my lips. My gaze anywhere but them. I knew he meant the 'girlfriend' part, but there was no meaning about arguing about it anymore. They wouldn't let go.
After a moment of silence we all started laughing knowing it was truth.
"So, which movie would you like to see?" I asked them smirking.
Riiiiiiiing
"Mm, five more minutes" I said sleepily.
Riiiiiiiing
"At least three more minutes please" I was getting annoyed.
Riiiiiiiing
"Damn it. I'm up now" I yelled as I was turning the alarm off. I usually don't need the alarm on Saturdays but since it was Sakura's big day I didn't want to take any chances so I turned it on.
I remembered last night, with the boys and Tenten. They left nearly at midnight. Thankfully, Shikamaru was allowed to take his father's car last night, so it was easier for everyone to get home.
I turned to see the time, it was 8 o'clock in the morning, just two hours before Sakura's big moment. I thought I'd make myself some breakfast and then get dressed, so I brushed my teeth and left to the kitchen.
"Well good morning sweetheart. What's gotten you up so early?" I stopped in my tracks and saw my mother, standing with her wide beautiful smile. The one she used to have all the time before she got sick. It seems she's finally feeling better. Thank you Kami - sama.
"Mom! Wha-What are you talking about? I always get early, if it's weekend" I told her with nervous voice. And it was truth, I always get up early, although not this early. I was only hoping I didn't get busted by my own mother.
"Mhm, so you're telling me, that you getting up this early doesn't have anything to do with the live transmission about certain family I recall just got back to Konoha"
Damn it. I got busted.
"Yes mom, you're right. That's why I'm up so early. Why did you even have to ask if you already knew?" I sighed. There was no winning against my mother.
"Mm, no real reason. I just wanted to hear you say it. Also, since it's your friend's family they'll talk about, I thought you would want to see it" for some reason, the way she told me that got me nervous and my face redden. I had to turn around so she wouldn't see me blush.
"W-Well then mom, once again you're right" I heard her giggling which only deepened my blush.
I didn't really get why she was acting this way while talking about Sakura's family. But seeing her in her old self distracted me from that thought.
"Alright then, what would you like to have for breakfast princess? Your father's not up yet so it's just the two of us for now" she told me smiling. I smiled back.
"Thank you to everyone's that has joined us today. In just a couple of minutes more we will have Haruno Kiyoshi standing before us" the female reporter said. It was now 09:58, which only got me thinking about the precision they were having.
"One of the real questions that's been in everyone's mind. Who will be the next successor?" the male reporter commented. I couldn't help but to think about Sakura as a small smile appeared on my lips.
"Are you nervous?" I turned to see my mother beside me. We were both sitting on the couch now.
"Mm... No, I mean, I don't really think so. If anything, Sakura's the one who must be" I answered not so sure of my response. I didn't want to admit it, but I was a little nervous. My mother saw me with comprehension and nodded while smiling.
"Good morning to my sweethearts. What are you watching?" my father yawned while joining us in the living room.
"The press conference about the Haruno family. Did you forget?" my mother asked and I was shocked little bit. I didn't thought they'd be watching it.
"Oh right, so it's today. I should've forgotten about it" was my father's quick answer while sitting next to my mother. His arm over her shoulders embracing her. I smiled and one again returned my attention to the TV.
"Very well everyone, this is the moment we've been waiting for. Let's receive him with a warm welcome. Haruno Kiyoshi" The clapping started when the reporter spoke and the head director appeared and stood on the podium, wearing a gray suit, white shirt and blue tie.
"Good morning everyone. I appreciate your company and most of all, this great welcome" only by listening to his voice, you could tell he was a man with great expectations and committed with his duty.
"Also, I want you to receive my family. My son, Haruno Tenshi and his wife, Haruno Misaki. And my grandson Haruno Taizo" the clapping continued as they entered, thanking with a nod, they took their seats beside the podium.
Sakura's father was a man with great bearing and tall, skin just a little bit tanned, blonde hair and light blue eyes just like his father's.
Her mother was a slender woman and with a height similar to Sakura's, with the same skin color, hair slightly darker than Sakura's own pink and dark green eyes.
The three were wearing formal clothing, Taizo and Sakura's father in black suits and her mother with a lavender dress with 'v' neck until the knees and black high heels.
"Now, as you know my family has been outside of the country for..." Wait what. That's not his whole family.
Where is Sakura?
"..Fortunately we've already concluded such business and compromises on the foreign. Therefore, I'm glad to finally tell you that, the Haruno family has come back permanently to the place that saw us be born, Konoha" more clapping and congratulations. And after that, what was still in the air...
"Tell us Haruno - san. Who's your successor?" The great question, would finally be answered.
"After a long talk with the managers of the hospital and my own son, we thought it would be more convenient that the next-generation was a little younger than what it used to be before. This with the purpose that the future of our hospitals will be certain with the young bright minds of tomorrow" A moment of silence was formed. Everybody with attention set on the next words.
"This being said, I'm proud to introduce you to my successor and granddaughter Haruno Sakura" The girl who refused to leave my mind finally made her entrance. Some of the people there were surprised while others already saw it coming. All of them excited and curious with the new generation that would soon begin. The clapping and congratulations reappeared.
For a moment I felt myself lost. I literally couldn't stop watching Sakura. Her hair didn't fall down her shoulders and back, it was now tied up in a high ponytail. Her clothes wasn't the school uniform I was used to see her wearing, now she was in a white buttoned shirt with black blazer and skirt of the same color, she was wearing black high heels as well. But what got my attention the most were the glasses she was using, it was the first time I ever saw her with them.
The girl I was now admiring had a much more mature appearance, but she was still the girl fell in lo... the girl I liked. Ugh, not again.
"It's a great honor for me to be standing in front of you all and being welcomed in such a way. I thank you all for your attendance" her voice was no showing the slightest sign of nervousness.
"Also, I would like to take this opportunity to thank my grandfather, my parents and my brother for being by my side, especially in this new stage of my life I'm now starting" she continued while turning towards her family and smiling to them.
"So now, know that I will give my best effort and dedication to keep up with this great legacy that I have been blessed with. And be certain, that I will make sure not to let down the trust that has been given to me" she saw her family from the corner of her eye and then turned back to the audience.
"I know it will be a great challenge at first, and many of you might be questioning yourselves if somebody of my age will be good enough to make it through" her calmed face and firm voice made it impossible not to believe her words.
"Well, let me tell you that having only 17 years of age, I have already been on the lead of extremely delicate surgeries, I've helped people to get out of the coma and move on with their life, just the same way I've been lucky enough to help terminal patients and even saved them. Everything thanks to the hard work and dedication" I knew she was amazing, but knowing this as well... there are no words to describe how proud I am of her.
"A medic's life can be hard when you lose people, but it can also be very significant when you manage to save them. It's very important to remember that everything is part of the cycle of our life. If you fail, you have to get up. If you win, you have to keep getting better" her speech was so amazing I was afraid to blink. I wanted to appreciate every word and movement coming from her. She deserved it.
"Finally, I would like to let you know that my activities will officially begin next year. Right after I turn 18 years old" I was shocked after hearing this. I thought she'd be beginning right away.
"Once again, I thank you all for your company this morning. As a request for my grandfather, I invite you to attend our house. We've organized a small party as a way to say thank you. We'll be expecting in a couple of hours. Thank you everybody. Good day" Sakura concluded the conference and everybody stood up to clap for the family that was now officially back in Konoha.
"Well, well. You were so concentrated that you're drooling princess" I heard my father say while turning to see him pointing towards my mouth.
"Dro-Drooling? Or course not dad" I said reacting to his words. When I suddenly felt something coming down my chin. My hand instantly moved to that spot.
Was that...?
"Oh man!" I almost yelled. I actually was drooling. I quickly cleaned myself as my face turned crimson and my parents would laugh because of it.
"Well, well. The show's over. You can stop now" I told them with a small pout on my lips.
"I'm sorry princess. It was unavoidable" my father said. I rolled my eyes and started laughing with them. After a while, the laughter faded.
"Now, how about I make you some breakfast?" My mother asked my father while standing up and taking his hand.
"That would be excellent" he answered while following her to the kitchen. I preferred to stay for a while longer watching television or something. Sakura would still be busy for a while, so I thought about killing time until then. What I didn't know, was that my plans would soon change with a text.
Would you mind coming for a while? The address is...
I'd swear my heart stopped for a second after seeing who sent the text.
"Mom, dad. I'll be out for a while" I literally jumped from the couch with sudden enthusiasm and after taking my stuff I went to said address.
"Hello miss, what can I help you with?" The guard was being very polite. Although I was doubting he would let me in just by listening to me.
"I have come to see Haruno Sakura. She's already expecting me" he looked at me with skeptical eyes. I really didn't know what else to say. I could show him the text, but I didn't think that'd work either.
"It's fine. Let her in" in a second Taizo was there. His right hand was on the guard's left shoulder while nodding to him. The guard finally agreed and let me in.
"I wasn't expecting you so fast but I'm glad you could make it. Come with me please" he said taking the lead of the way since I of course had no idea where we were going.
Ever since knowing Sakura, I always thought her house would be big, actually very big. But now that I'm here, I've come to realize I was sadly mistaken. Her house wasn't big, it was HUGE. I was even wondering how the family didn't get lost in so many walls, doors and people. The size of this place was madness.
The walls were completely white as the doors created a perfect classical contrast with their dark brown color. There were three floors with many long hallways on each one leading to specific areas of the house. There were also two gyms and a pool inside the house. And of course, there were rooms filled with medical equipment.
I was admiring the house with so much attention, I failed to notice the amused look Taizo was giving to me.
"It's quite big I know. That's why onee - chan doesn't like it here much. Neither do I. We both like our house better. It's more comfortable, and you know, it's ours" I was confused with that.
"You mean you don't live here? Whose house is this then?" We kept walking until we finally reached the third floor.
"Technically we do live here, but we prefer to call it our grandfather's house. At least until it's finally given to one of us" he answered as we stopped in front of a glass door with lavender long silk curtains, making it impossible to look through but still to be able to enjoy fresh air. Which meant the other side was outdoors.
"Here we are. Could you please give this to her?" he said while handing me a cellphone. And as I recalled the phone call from yesterday, I figured it out. It was Sakura's.
"It wasn't her who sent me that text, was it?" he smirked as I asked.
"I wanted to surprise her. Well, technically you will but you know what I mean" he rubbed the back of his neck nervously.
"Don't worry about it. She was going to call you either way" he told me after seeing my troubled face. I didn't want to be a burden.
"Just talk to her for a little while please. It'll be good for her" after thinking about I finally agreed and nodded.
"Thanks. I'll be seeing you around then. Later" he then left smiling.
I sighed hard as I stood there. Once again I was quite nervous for seeing her. I didn't even know why. That or I just didn't want to admit it.
A few seconds passed and as I calmed myself I finally walked out to go find her.
Just when I thought I couldn't be more surprised, I found myself before an enormous pool right next to a big gorgeous garden. The pool was at the border of that floor, from where you could enjoy a beautiful view from Konoha.
Once I composed myself, my gaze started looking for her until I found her. She was standing next to the pool, her back towards me, she was still wearing the clothing from the conference except for the blazer which she had taken off. September was starting, which meant the summer was ending and the autumn wasn't so far away. It wasn't too hot nor too cold. It was a very nice weather.
She didn't notice my presence. So I approached her. Just as I was about to touch her shoulder, she turned in my direction.
"You finally made it. What took you so lo...?" She stopped as she saw me standing in front of her and our eyes met.
I supposed she was expecting her brother, which was why she was looking so shocked when she saw me there instead of him.
"H-Hi. I hope I'm not bothering you. I just wanted to see how you were" the blush didn't take long to appear on my cheeks and I took my gaze away from hers. She looked even more gorgeous now that I was this close to her, if that was even possible.
"Of course not. I-I was actually going to call you" My eyes went back to her, so I noticed how her face redden a little bit while saying that. "That's why I asked Taizo to bring my cellphone, but you came instead, so I won't be needing it for now" she told me and I remembered I was asked to give it to her.
"Oh right" I said while handing her cellphone. "Your brother wanted me to give it to you, so here it is. I'm sorry, I almost forgot" she took it, smiled and thanked me.
"So tell me, did you see the conference? How did I do it?" She spoke breaking the silence.
"Of course I saw it and by the way, you did a tremendous job. Honest, you were just so perfect, your speech was wonderful and the way you managed to reach people was just amazing" I was so lost in my thoughts I almost missed how her face redden.
"Th-Thank you. That's really nice of you" her soft and embarrassed voice made me realize what I had just said, making me turn crimson as well.
"Y-you're welcome" was all I managed to say.
For a moment, neither of us spoke due to the shyness that suddenly appeared between the both of us. I was begging Kami - sama to help me say something else, but Sakura beat me to it.
"Now that I think about it, how is your mom? Is she feeling better?" a genuine concern was shown on her face.
"As a matter of fact, she's been feeling quite well since this morning" I answered as I smiled. I was glad she was finally getting better.
"I see. It's a relief to hear that. I'm glad she's better" she said while sighing a little. I smiled to her and thanked her.
"Though, she wasn't getting better until this morning. I even thought of calling you" my concern was visible in my face and she noticed.
"The offer's still open you know? Call me if anything happens" her left hand was on my right shoulder. The warmth of her words and her soft touch still made me shiver slightly.
"I know. Thanks" I said as my eyes found hers.
It was only a few days ago when I last saw her, but in those days I've missed her deeply. And having her this close to me again made me realize how easy was for us both to feel comfortable with each other's company. Just the two of us.
Suddenly, something else came to my mind. The blazer wasn't the only thing she took off. Her glasses were gone as well.
"Hey, now that I think about it. What happened to your glasses? I didn't know you needed those" I asked her trying not to move away from her. I didn't want to break the contact. But sadly, she did it for me.
"Oh the glasses" the hand that was previously on my shoulder was now under her chin and her index finger was stroking it in the cutest way, as if realizing she never mentioned it before. Her gaze was everywhere but me.
"There's actually nothing wrong with my sight. I only need to use them if my eyes hurt" she seemed to be thinking how to explain it.
"Mm, sometimes my eyes tend to get dry easily because of the sunlight or any light that's too luminous" she continued with wondering voice.
"If anything, I only need them when I use the computer too much, while driving at night, using the cellphone or watching tv. But only if they hurt, which is almost never now" I thought she had finished, but I was wrong.
"And as to why I used them today, mm well... I just thought I could look more serious with them. You know, professionally" her eyes finally on me as her cheeks turned the slightest crimson color.
"Well, it worked. Believe me"
"Uff, that's a relieve" she said. Her cheeks turning back to normal while giggling a little.
"By the way, thanks for your kind wishes from yesterday, and Tenten as well. It helped a lot" a great smile was showing on her lips while looking at me with kindness. I'd swear the gap between our bodies decreased. I started getting nervous. Does she not notice what she does to me?
"N-No problem" I said the best I could, although my small stuttering didn't help me at all.
She laughed softly and nodded. Her laughter as melodious as always was echoing in my mind seconds after hearing it.
I was going to talk once again when suddenly someone stopped me.
"Onee - chan, I'm sorry to bother but grandfather wants to see you now. He says it's urgent" Taizo came in as fast as lightning, it seemed it was really important.
"Alright, I'll be with him in a moment" Sakura answered while sighing. I was impressed, I had no idea where she got all that energy from.
"Wait here for a while, okay Ino? I'll be back" I didn't have time for anything, when I wanted to answer, Sakura was already gone.
"And how's she?" Sakura's younger brother asked with curiosity.
"I think she was calmed enough despite everything. She might no show it, but she must be exhausted. When all of this ends you have to make sure she rests enough" I said with security and he nodded understanding the situation.
"It's a nice view you have up here. It's quite nice and calmed" I told him admiring the place we were now in better.
"Yeah, it's really great. Onee - chan likes it a lot, that's why I told her to keep this floor" I heard him giggling.
"Keep the floor?" I didn't understand that last part. Was all of this really Sakura's?
"That's right. Grandfather decided to divide it by floor. So each of us owns one. He's at the first one, I'm at the second and this one belongs to onee - chan" my eyes widened because of the impression.
"So your parents don't live here with you?" It was something that came up to me when I remembered seeing them at the conference.
"No, since we came back they live at our house and we live here. Do you remember I told a moment ago? It's a little far away from the city, but that's the way all four of us like it. To be near the nature, to enjoy the tranquility and to be with our family, although it's not easy to remain together anymore" his gaze turned a little sad. Just like Sakura's when she spoke about her family the other day at my house.
"And why do you live apart, or why don't they live here?" Since that day I wanted to know a little more about their family. And this was the moment to do it.
"It's complicated to be honest. Grandfather thinks us being there would be a waste of time whenever we'd like or needed to come to the city, in my case to come to school and onee - chan, eh well, to do whatever she will be doing from now on" I didn't know what to say now. His voice seemed upset.
"Eh, I guess, well..." I stammered since I didn't know what my next words would be. Until I found something to tell him.
"I know changes can be hard sometimes, either if it is what you want to, if it's needed or if you're being forced to, but we must believe something good will come out of it. Who knows what can happen, so what we have to do is to expect for the better" I told him with sincerity. I believed in that after all.
He was trapped in his own thoughts for seconds, and finally with a smile upon his lips he answered me.
"I'm glad onee - chan has friends like you here. It hasn't been easy since... These changes started" I could notice the emphasis when he spoke. Which got me to be even more curious.
"What do you mean. Coming back to Konoha and living here weren't the only things that happened?" I felt like I was already going too far, what I wanted to know. I needed to know.
"Not really. There were some issues between grandfather and dad that only got worst with time, it started years ago, but we didn't know anything about it until a couple of years ago. Onee - chan was already learning some stuff about medicine, but everything got more intense back at that time and shortly after we knew why" his gaze was lost in his memories and his voice sounded as if everything was happening all over again.
"Dad was going to take over grandfather's job originally, but years ago something happened that changed his mind. Something that marked them both and was very difficult to overcome. The death of..." His last words were barely louder than a whisper, but I managed to hear enough to know what he was going to say.
"Anyway, that's conversation for another time. The important thing is that now onee - chan will be busier than ever and I'll be there to remind her the meaning of 'break'. Which probably will be quite often" in an instant, Taizo came back to his happy self. I am glad it's easy for him to see the bright side of these kind of things. And just like he said, that was conversation for another time, now the important one was Sakura.
"Mhm, you're right. I'll help you as much as I can" I told him smiling. He smiled back.
We were silent for a moment, enjoying the soft and nice breeze that you could feel up here.
"Ino - chan, you mind if I ask you something?" I was surprised he called me that way, but it was Taizo, I could expect anything from him.
"Not at all. Tell me" I answered turning towards him.
"What do you feel for onee - chan?" Nervousness got over me and my face was redder than a tomato. I didn't know what to say.
"It's just the way you try so hard to help her, how you're always there for her... Don't get me wrong, I appreciate it a lot. But I'm not sure how it interpret it, so I'm asking you, do you lo...?" His question was left in the air when certain girl came back.
"Uff. Sorry you guys, I was as fast as I could. Now... Hey otouto, where are you going?" Just like Sakura, I found it odd that Taizo was leaving so suddenly. Although I was grateful with her for showing up, it took me out of trouble.
"I'm sorry onee - chan. I must help grandfather with some stuff before the guests start coming. I see you downstairs, okay? See you soon Ino - chan" he said quickly while giving me a complicity look, which of course Sakura noticed. And once again, we were left alone.
"What was that?" she asked me with confusion. My blush intensified, if that was possible.
"Ehh, I h-have no i-idea what you're t-talking about" perfect, more stuttering. Just perfect.
It was obvious she didn't believe me, but seeing me so nervous and my face about to explode she let it go.
"Mhm, okay. If you say so" I didn't feel good with her answer, but it was the best for now. I didn't trust my ideas when I was nervous, so I wouldn't take any chances.
"So, everything okay?" I asked with genuine curiosity while calming my nerves and my blush.
"Yes, but people is already arriving. So I'll have to leave soon" she didn't sound upset, but a little bit sad. Maybe she thought she'd be having a little more time to rest.
"I understand. I think, I should leave then" it was difficult for me to say those words. I didn't want to leave just yet, but to be with her a little longer. Just a little more, but it wouldn't be possible for now. Would it always be this way if we could ever have a relationship? I think so.
"I'm sorry for doing this to you again. But, I have to go" she took her gaze down feeling ashamed. And I knew why.
"It's alright Sakura, you don't have to apologize. It was me who decided to come, remember? Nothing that you say now will make me regret it" not even I expected that answer from me, but my words were sincere. Even if it was only a few minutes of seeing her, it would always be worth it.
"Yeah, thanks by the way. It's always a great help talking to you" she told me smiling a little ashamed still. My heart started racing seeing her like this, she looked so sweet.
She suddenly started pulling at the neck of her shirt, as if she was tensed, nervous or something like that. But then I remembered, this is Sakura we're talking about, she can always take over this kind of situation perfectly well.
"What's the matter. Are you hot?" it was something silly to ask with a weather so nice, but I didn't have anything to loose. I would only be making a fool of myself again. But with Sakura, I could really get used to it.
"Eh? No, not at all. It's just I'm not used to wear this kind of shirt like this" she told me getting my attention and making me watch what she was doing.
Before I could notice, I unconsciously took my hand towards her neck, placing it above hers. This was one of those situations when I didn't think of my actions and just let the moment take over.
"I think, it wouldn't hurt if you unbutton it a little bit" she slowly left her hand fall to the side, allowing mine to take control over the buttons.
"That was my idea at the beginning, because that's how I wear my shirts normally..." she said and I unbuttoned the first one "...but grandfather never liked the idea..." she continued and I unbuttoned the second one "...he says it doesn't look good" she finished and our gazes were set upon my hand, which was already at the third button.
I didn't have any intention of continuing, but for some reason I didn't take my hand away. Maybe it was the fact I wasn't thinking what I was doing. Maybe I just wanted to feel her near to me. Or maybe I just wanted to keep enjoying the touch of my fingers towards her soft and perfect porcelain skin. Time stopped for me in that moment and I took my eyes upon her head. She was still looking at my hand above her chest.
"That's fine. I can breathe better now. Thank you" her voice sounded distant, as if she too was lost in the moment. At least that's what I wished it was.
"You're welcome. I'm glad I can help" my voice was showing so much devotion that for a moment I was afraid I went too far. Although thinking about it, maybe I had already done it. But I didn't care. Not now.
She slowly started lifting her gaze. My eyes expecting hers. I felt like everything was going in slow motion, I could watch every movement of her hair, I admired her eyelashes when blinking, and the way her emerald eyes were going towards my blue ones.
There were no words to describe her. She was so perfect and gorgeous before my eyes that nothing I would say about her could be enough. All my life I have asked myself if it was true that when you see someone as the most beautiful and unique person that could ever exist, is because you love them. That is how I see Sakura, so that means I...
"Are you alright? You haven't moved in a while" her words interrupted my thoughts and her right hand was above my left cheek making me blush. Her intense emerald eyes set with mine.
"Y-Yeah. Sorry, I was just thinking" I blinked a couple of times to control myself. My gaze was still upon hers, but my hand wasn't on her shirt anymore. It was on her waist.
I didn't know if I was making a huge mistake, or if I was reacting fine according to what she was doing and saying. But I had already made it to this point, there was no going back.
"About what?" Her voice seemed to fade away more every time she talked. I didn't even think, I just answered. The gap between us disappearing with every passing second.
"I-I'm not sure. But whatever it is, it's all I think about when I'm with you" my emotions taking me further made me hold her waist tighter and get my body closer to hers.
"It's like, everything else stopped existing but you" she wasn't expecting me to continue, her slightly widened eyes told me that.
"I don't know how to explain it. I just know it's there" my lips were mere centimeters away from hers. I told myself I had to stop, but my body was moving by its own now. I felt her hand going down from my cheek to my shoulder to finally stop above my upper arm.
I didn't plan any of this. I didn't even know how I got to this point anymore. But none of that mattered, not now. Especially when she seemed to reciprocate my actions. This was actually happening.
I could feel her breath mixing with my own. Her hand slenderly set on my upper arm. And her head was leaning slightly to the side in order to fit mine better.
Our gazes found one another and then I knew it was the moment. It was now or never.
I was going to kiss her.
I slowly closed my eyes and got my face towards hers. The tip of her nose touched mine slightly. I could almost feel her lips. Just a little more.
"Sakura - sama. Sakura - sama! Kiyoshi - sama requires your presence now. The guests had arrived" I stopped in my tracks when I heard an unknown voice. I opened my eyes and noticed her attentive gaze upon me. Y reacted then.
"Sakura - sama?" My body automatically got away from hers when said person crossed the glass door and joined us outside.
"Give me five minutes and I'll be with him" she said with a smile acting natural, as if nothing happened. How the hell does she do that? I envied her so much at that moment.
"Hai Sakura - sama. I'll let him know" I took my gaze towards the person who just came into view and saw a woman, she surely was one of the people working on the house. Her curious eyes on me, to then get back to Sakura and nod.
After that, we were alone again.
I couldn't move. I couldn't say anything. My gaze was on the ground and my back was towards Sakura. I was feeling so ashamed I wasn't able to see her. My cheeks extremely blushed and my hesitation gave me away. I didn't know what to do now.
"I'm sorry, I think I should leave now" I didn't see her face when she said that, but I was sure she was apologizing.
"Ino?" I got more tensed when she said my name. I wasn't answering, so she was looking for a way to make me talk.
"Hey, it's okay. Nothing happened. There's nothing to worry about" her warm and comprehensive words helped me calm myself a little bit. That was how I finally managed to turn towards her.
"I-I'm so s-sorry. I don't know what h-happened to m-me. Sorry" that was all I could say. My voice wasn't fully back still.
"It's fine, I told you. You don't have to apologize" I nodded before her words, but my eyes were still everywhere but her. Her voice seemed hurt. I saw how she extended here right arm towards me, but stopped after moment to let it drop to her side again.
"I'll ask Taizo to keep you some company. You're welcome if you wish to stay" she said while going to the exit without looking back. It was then I realized I couldn't leave things like this.
"Please, forgive me. I-It's just that it was so s-sudden. Don't t-think I regret it or a-anything. I'm just a-assimilating it" the grab of my hand on her wrist was firm when I said that. Even with the stuttering.
"Besides, it was me who s-started it. It's me w-who should be apologizing" I heard her giggle and my reddened.
"I believe I said you didn't need to apologize. It's fine, honest" she turned to me and our eyes finally found one another since we were interrupted. Her emerald eyes reflecting such calmness she got me to relax. A never-fading grin on her lips. I smiled with her and nodded.
"See you later then?" that was my quick question knowing what was coming next. Her departure.
"You know it" she answered while looking at me from the corner or her eyes ready to leave. Just as she was about to cross the door she stopped and turned to me.
"Ino... Thank you for coming. I really appreciate it" my heart speeded up and with sudden shyness I answered.
"It's always a pleasure to help you" I told her with sincerity and a small grin, which she gave back to me.
"See you later princess" Sakura said with a smirk and teasing voice.
"Until then Sakura - sama" she let out a loud laughter and I joined her. Now we both knew how to call the other one, just to joke from time to time.
As soon as we got calmed we focused our attention in each other. And after a while, Sakura smiled for one last time and finally disappeared through the silk.
For a moment I thought I had gone too far, but it seems it wasn't like that. What just happened got me to wonder about something.
Next time I see Sakura, it could be for a date.
