Sakura's POV

After Naruto and I set up our camp and established our communicator connection, we went looking in our first grid area. Jumping through the trees we didn't see anyone at all.

'Sasuke there's no one in our gird.'

'Same here. Go onto the next one.'

Naruto and I keep checking until we were out of range. It was already dark out and you could tell that he was starting to get bored. He made a few hand signs and shadow clones appeared.

"Come on Sakura let's head back. We aren't in contact with the other two anymore."

"Yeah. You would've thought that we could at least sense a chakra signature by now."

"I know. I think granny was too quick to send us."

"Maybe, maybe not."

As we got closer to camp a heavy feeling started to sink in. It felt as if someone was watching us. Naruto didn't have a concerned look on his face and he sat down to make a small fire. I took a seat across from him and stared at the ground.

"Sakura cheer up."

I took my communicator our and Naruto followed my lead. There's been this heavy feeling for a few days now.

"It's hard to right now."

"Why? Did that Teme do something?"

"Honestly I don't know. At first he was emotionally dead like when we were genin, but things have happened and I can't tell if he has feelings for me or not."

"Sakura you know that he's emotionally awkward. Sasuke's actions speak louder than his words."

"Yeah…"

"Look Sakura don't fret. I see the way he is around you. Teme has never been like that with anyone before. Just trust your gut feeling."

"I guess… he did ask me to the festival."

"That's great Sakura."

I smiled at him and reattached my communicator. There was no noise so we were in the clear. I made a quick meal and we ate in silence under the stars.

The bush started to shake and caught both of our attention. We both stood and I immediately sent chakra to my fist to prepare for a fight. A man stepped out wearing all black clothes and had dark hair. Another Sasuke look a like.

"Who are you?"

"That doesn't really matter to you Naruto Uzumaki. I'm not interested in you."

'Sasuke we need you now'

"What do you mean? Who are you here for?"

The mans eyes locked onto mine and I froze. Was this mysterious man after me? Why would someone want me?

"I'm here to speak with Sakura Haruno."

I stepped back on my heel just in case I need a running start. Sasuke and Sai should be here in just a minute. We need to learn what we can before he takes off.

"I don't want to speak with you."

"Well it's either you speak with me or I take you with me."

"I'm not going anywhere with you. So you're out of luck. If anything you're coming with us."

He started chuckling and I felt Sasuke and Sai's chakra. Thank god they are here. Sasuke jumped in front me protectively and his chakra was spiking.

"Ah the famous Sasuke Uchiha. Are you here to capture me?"

"That's our mission."

"Well too bad for your mission. Sakura will be coming with me now. I have things that require her attention."

"There's no way in hell I'm letting you take her."

"Ah has the Uchiha gone soft? Too bad."

Before I had a chance to defend myself I was being carried off in the opposite direction of the village. This guy, whoever he is, can outrun our fastest Anbu. As we zipped past the trees the blur that was my friends were gone in seconds.

"I'm sorry for it to end this way."

A sharp blow to my neck and all that greeted me was darkness.

Sasuke's POV

"SAKURA!"

We took off after the kidnapper but we were no match for him. This guy had superhuman speed and stamina. Before long I could no longer see them, sense their chakra or hear them. What does he need Sakura for? There could only be a handful of thing and they either required her strength or her healing.

"God damn it. How in the hell did he get away?"

"I don't know Sasuke but we need to get back to the village now. We need reinforcements to find her."

"Dobe we could lose her if we leave. We need Kakashi and his hounds. They could track her scent."

"Naruto, Sasuke stop. I can ride back into the village on my bird and get a team ready and we will rejoin you in an hour."

I looked at Naruto and our faces hardened. This was Sakura we were talking about. Yes, she could hold her own in a fight but what if they cut off her chakra? Right now I need to put my feelings aside and figure a way to bring her home.

"Sasuke you are the leader. What do you want us to do?"

"Sai hurry back to the village. Naruto make a small summon to go with him. We will continue to move forward. We all know what happens after just a few hours behind."

"Yes."

Sai pulled out his scroll and started to draw while Naruto bit his finger and quickly summoned a small toad telling him to go with Sai. That was the only way we were going to be able to stay in contact with the others. We took off in the same direction that Sakura had been carried off to. The only way we could tell that we were on the right path was the guy had left slight footprints in the trees. His chakra was working overtime to outrun us. This could work in our advantage in the end. We pushed forward and played hide-and-seek along with the waiting game.

After an hour Naruto told us to stop. We jumped down from the trees into a clearing. He said that our friends were on the way to our location. All of them were running full speed too.

"There's nothing else we can do right now Sasuke. I want to get her back just as much as you do but we need to wait for Kakashi sensei. Pakkun can help us track her a lot faster than just small footprints that disappeared about three miles ago."

"Naruto I already knew that. It's my fault that she got taken. If I would've held onto her or something we would be back in the village already."

"Don't worry. We will have her home soon. You have to take her to the festival too."

"How did you know about that?"

"She told me earlier. You know that it is late and we should rest once the others join us."

"I know. Do you want to go ahead and set everything up for when they get here?"

"That's a great idea. I'll go get some wood to burn."

I sat down on the ground and stared off into the distance. Today was supposed to be a simple day, just Sakura and I alone together. Our first date and it was ruined by a mission that led Sakura to being taken. What a great leader I am… my chance to redeem myself and I fail.

Naruto returned with four shadow clones carrying arms full of logs. They made a pile and set some in the middle of the clearing to make a fire. Once they were out of the way I made a small fireball to ignite the wood. My body tightened as I felt the chakras catching up.

Ino was the first to enter the clearing and she came marching up to me with a fist raised.

"HOW could you lose Sakura? Do you even know how MUCH she cares about YOU and looks up to you? You COULDN'T even stop that guy!"

"That's enough Ino. Whatever happened leave it be. Sasuke and Naruto have been running after them the entire time."

"Kakashi sensei how are you not as pissed as I am. You have seen first hand what this idiot has done to her and how lonely he made her feel."

"I can't let my emotions ruin my logic. Sakura is missing and we can't start turning on each other."

The blonde went off to the edge of the clearing and talked with Sai. Hinata walked up and placed a hand on my shoulder.

"We need to sit down and discuss our plan. Shikamaru says we need a strategy before we leave this camp. Sakura can handle herself against enemies. Trust in her power and abilities."

"I know Hinata. I never intended for her to get taken."

"We know. Ino is just in her emotions right now. Sai will calm her down. We will set up tents while you, Naruto, Kakashi and Shikamaru make a plan."

The other three men were sitting in a semi-circle talking things over. I sat beside Kakashi and he looked at me.

"Sasuke, Lady Tsunade said that you are still in charge of this mission. Also if you bring Sakura home safe and this man captive you will be released of your probation."

"I'm not worried about probation or anything. We need to get our teammate back and get home in just two days."

"Well Pakkun is going to be able for us to track her exact location in the morning. I suggest we leave at dawn."

"We also have no idea what his hideout looks like or where he is. We need to divide the group into two platoons. I suggest we have Naruto, Neji, Lee, Tenten and myself on one then Hinata, Ino, Sai, Kakashi and you on another."

"You really want Ino on my platoon after she just blew up in my face. If she does that again while we are in battle she could easily get Sakura killed."

"Ino knows when to show her thought. She is also a healer and I'm assuming that when we infiltrate to retrieve Sakura, your platoon will be the one to get her. Ino can heal any injuries she may have."

So now that we have our two platoons ready now we had to figure out a strategy whenever we came across the location. That would have to wait until the morning.

"We can make our plan of action in the morning. I will be in overall command of this mission but Shikamaru can you act as the leader for your platoon."

"No problem."

We all rose from the ground and saw everyone's tents were up. Someone had sent ours up while we were discussing what to do. Hinata and Ino were getting something ready to eat. I was too focused to realize that I haven't eaten anything since this morning. My mind was too focused on finding her. Once the food was ready all of us ate in silence. Tomorrow was going to be a long day and we all needed our sleep.

Sulking over to my tent, Kakashi was standing in front of the opening.

"Sasuke can we talk for a second?"

"Hn."

"Look I know that you are worried and anxious to get her back. I hope you know that Sakura can take care of herself."

"I know she can but she shouldn't have to. This should've never happened in the first place. I was standing right in front of her and he still managed to grab her."

"It's not your fault either. We just have to get our Sakura home."

"I agree."

"Well then night Sasuke. Dawn is early and we are all tired."

I shrugged and entered my tent. It was big enough for one person to sleep comfortably. I took off my katana and shoes. There was no point to take my clothes off because in a few hours I would have to redress. Closing my eyes all I thought about was getting her home safe.

Sakura's POV

Opening my eyes, I was positive of two things. First, I was chained to a wall with no chakra and second, I smelt iron and mud. Looking around my cell like room the floors were covered in dirt and blood, which explained the smell. Why had this mystery guy taken me hostage? He said that we had important things that needed my attention. What could he possibly need me for?

'Sasuke is going to beat him to a bloody pulp when he gets here.'

'I'm going to beat him to a bloody pulp when I get loose. Who does this guy think he is? I'm Sakura Haruno. Top medic of Konoha and pupil of Lady Tsunade. There is no way I can be beaten this quickly. Plus, I beat Sasuke in a fight.'

'We both know that you only beat him because you both were drunk. Let Sasuke save us. We can play damsel in distress.'

'No I can't.'

The door opened and in came the man that had taken me. He stood in front of me and had a wicked smile on his face.

"Well, well it's time to get to business."

"I have no business with you."

"Actually you do. I need you. You have probably met my old teacher, Orochimaru."

"What about him?"

"Well you see I've been working on creating the perfect body. I have been missing key ingredient though."

"Let me guess a medical ninja…"

"Bingo. Now I need you to assist me in finishing my creation."

"I will not help you with anything."

"Then you will stay in this cell and rot."

"Do you know who I am? Sasuke and Naruto will come and find me quicker than you think."

"Those two couldn't protect you from getting taken. What makes you think that they can save you?"

"I just have a feeling."

"I wouldn't trust it. Let me just say they aren't going to like what they find if you don't help me."

"What do you mean?"

"You are so independent and upbeat. Someone needs to break that spirit of yours. Your beloved teammates will not find you and you will make my creation come to life."

"Over my dead body."

"We can arrange that."

On that note he exited my cell and another man walked in. He was about Sasuke's height and was wearing a solid red mask. His clothes gave nothing away about him.

"Well, well it seems like it's time for fun. Tell me how to finish creating new cells."

"No."

"Too bad."

His punch resonated through my body. This man defiantly had chakra and he was sure using it. It was hard to tell if any real damage had been done but I would have a huge bruise from this.

"I know Tsunade can do it and since you are her pupil then you must know. You can create new limbs and organs. What forbidden jutsu can do it?"

"I know no idea."

This time he punched me in the face. I held back the tears that wanted to fall but I wouldn't let them. Blood was dripping from my mouth and nose. No doubt that my nose was beyond broken. When I get these fucking chains off he is dead.

"You should start talking before I mess you up too much pinky."

"Fuck off. Why don't you find Kabuto or some other fucking insane lunatic?"

"Hm."

I felt a snap and without a doubt my arm was broken. Looking up, there was a break in my upper arm with I couldn't help the scream that left my mouth. This is an occupational hazard but I never knew it could be this bad. This time I felt a cut go across my leg. His soul job was to torture the information out of me and there was no way to stop him. My hands were useless and I had no chakra. His kunai continued to cut across my skin until my whole body burned. I closed my eyes and all I could think about was what I wish I could say to Sasuke. Over the years my childhood crush has turned into eternal love. Ever since he's been home I feel like he wants to return the same emotion.

"You're lucky Sakura. My boss is about to storm in and stop me."

I shot my eyes at him and I only thought about how I was going to kill him. Even better once Sasuke got here, he would tare him limb from limb.

"I'd be… more scared…of Sasuke Uchiha. When he gets here…. you're a dead man."

"If he gets here."

"When he does you won't be able to stop him."

He started laughing and left the room. Once I was alone the tears started falling. I've never been this abused in my life. There's never been a mission where I have had more than a few bruises. This was the most pain my body has ever been in. Was Sasuke even looking for me?

'Are you serious? Of course he is looking for you. You mean more to him than you think.'

'If only there was a way for me to get in touch with them.'

'Aren't you still wearing your communicator?'

'I think so but Sasuke has to be almost in the building for him to hear me. That will only work if they didn't see it either.'

'Let's hope they didn't.'

Looking at the ground I could see my blood dripping down into a pool. If I stayed up here too long eventually I would loose too much. My eyes looked around the cell and there was no window or clock. Of course I'm literally going to be left in the dark. I leaned my head back against the wall and closed my eyes. Sasuke please help me…

Sasuke's POV

The sun was rising while we finished packing up our gear. Kakashi had already summoned Pakkun. We were to follow until we reached our destination and once we find the hide out we will split into our teams. I was beside Kakashi and we started running after Pakkun.

"Her scent is strong Kakashi. I should have no problem finding her."

"Good. How far do you think she is?"

"Maybe 8 miles or so. This guy didn't try to hide his trail. It goes straight the entire time."

We looked at each other. He wanted us to follow him. This is a bad sign and we all knew it. Everyone was silent as we ran the next few miles. We had to stop to rest and regroup. Shikamaru walked up to me and now was the time to plan our attack.

"Sasuke, you will be the retrieval team. My team will be the defense. We will cover you outside while your group breaks in and gets Sakura. We also have to capture the man."

"I'll take care of him. Don't worry about that."

"Don't kill him no matter what. Tsunade wants him."

I shrugged my shoulders at him. If he hurt Sakura in any way there were no promises that I wouldn't hurt him. Naruto was sitting beside Hinata whispering into her ear. They were smiling and I could see Ino and Sai the same way. Maybe when we got back Sakura and I could be like that.

"Let's move out. We only have 3 miles left."

They all stood and followed Kakashi. I watched from behind keeping an eye in the rear. The closer we got to Sakura's scent the more I wanted to just run in and get her. My emotions were controlling me and I couldn't allow it. If they continued to make me irrational then I could get all of use hurt or killed.

As we approached the building that Pakkun had led us to my heart dropped. We were at an old Orochimaru hideout. This guy, whoever he was, is working or has worked with the snake bastard.

"Kakashi, Naruto you know what this is right?"

"Yeah Sasuke. This is bad."

"Care to fill the rest of us in Uchiha?"

"This is an old Orochimaru hideout."

Everyone's chakra went stealth mode. The enemy most likely had someone on look out for us. Hinata and Neji both activated their Byakugans. They scanned the entire building and left them activated.

"Sakura is a room alone. Her chakra is being drained. There are 10 enemies in the entire building and they are on the same floor as Sakura."

"So we need to draw out some of the men outside."

"No problem."

Naruto made a rasengan and threw it at the building. With the explosion we all ran towards the building. Shikamaru and his him began to attack the enemies that had escaped the building. I activated my sharingan everything was going so fast. Hinata was scanning the rooms as we ran by.

"The next floor. She's above us and there are two others in the room with us."

We ran up the stairs and Hinata said that she was at the end of the hall. Kakashi kicked the door opened and took out the first man, Sai and Hinata took care of the second one. When I looked at Sakura my blood boiled. Her pale skin had been cut and slashed, her face was bruised, her arm and nose looked broken and her clothes were almost none existent. All I could see was red... Kakashi noticed the spike in my chakra. His eyes were slightly widened and that was the least of my worries.

"Sasuke, you unlocked the rinnegan."

Every sense was heightened now, I could sense everyone's chakra in the area and my vision was better than ever. I wrapped my arm around her waist softly so I would press too hard against her wounds. I snapped the chains and lowered her into my lap, her blood was on my hands and shirt.

"Sakura, I need you to wake up."

"Sasuke…"

"Ino you start healing her and Sai get fly her to a safe spot in the woods. We will find you."

"She needs to go back to the village. I'll run out of chakra before I can fully heal her."

"Then go as fast as you can."

"Okay."

I handed Sakura to Ino and they took off. My body started to walk without me telling it to. This man was going to die for hurting her. Sakura never deserved this. How can someone do this to such a caring and loving person?

"Sasuke stop. Where are you going?"

"To find the man that took her and did this to her. Hinata there is still someone in the building correct?"

"Two floors up. There are two chakra signatures. Well one for sure but the other is something I've never seen before."

"Let's go."

We ran as fast as we could up the stairs to the room and my eyes locked onto the man that took her. I know that Tsunade wants him and she will get him, but after I beat him close to death.

"Well, well it seems that you found us. Oh and you have a new addition Sasuke. I must say love the new look."

"Shut up. Why did you take her?"

"I needed her to help. She sure is a stubborn woman and if she would've just helped me then she would be safe."

"Don't talk about her like that."

"Oh is the Uchiha falling for his weak little teammate?"

I snarled at him. How dare he insult Sakura? Who does this asshole think he is?

"Sasuke calm down. Hinata what is in the chamber over there?"

Her eyes scanned and she looked completely shocked. Her body started to shake and she stepped back.

"It's a body. Not exactly human but something created."

The man started to laugh and we all looked at him. He walked closer to the chamber that Hinata had just examined and placed his hand on it.

"This is the next step for humanity. I've finally created the perfect body. Indestructible, self-healing, and chakra networks more advance than anything ever seen. I only need Sakura help me finish the last step. All I need is to bring the cells to life."

"That's not going to happen."

"Even if you do capture me, there are others that will take my place until this is brought to life."

I charged at him. Kakashi followed behind me while Hinata tried to get the chamber unplugged. We need to eliminate the enemy and whatever was in the chamber. The guy was fast but we were faster. It seemed like he went down with out a real fight. I looked at him and put him under a genjutsu. His body fell like a rag doll.

"Hinata forget about the chamber we need to go."

"We need to destroy this Sasuke. Kakashi please help me. Use lighting blade to overload the power."

His hand sparked up and touched the chamber. The reading on the monitors and the plus started to pop and go haywire. Kakashi grabbed the man and we ran outside to our friends. Naruto was standing on top of a pile of beaten bodies.

"We saw Sakura get taken away. How bad?"

"We don't know."

"What happened to your eye Sasuke?"

"Don't worry about it. We need to get home ASAP."

They all nodded. As we ran all I could think about was getting home to Sakura. Her injuries could be worse than what they appear to be. I swear whoever did that to her better be dead or I'll hunt him down and kill him myself.

After hours of running we finally made it back to the village. The prisoner was taken from us at the gate by two Anbus. My team was exhausted and beaten. We all made our way to the hospital to get checked out and to see our girl.

Naruto was loud as always talking about how he wants to go eat ramen already and talking about nonsense. Walking into the hospital, Tsunade was standing at the front desk with a worried look on her face.

"Get these ninjas checked immediately. Sasuke come with me."

Nurses started to run to the rest of the group while I followed Tsunade down the hallway. She stopped at a door and let out a breath that she had been holding.

"Please tell you killed the son of a bitch that did this to her."

"I think so. We don't exactly know who tortured her."

"Her nose and arm were broken, two fractured ribs, internal bleeding, deep cuts along her skin and she lost a lot of blood. She will be okay to go home tomorrow. I'm glad that you got her home safely."

"Me too."

"You can go see her. Oh be careful with that new eye of yours Uchiha. That thing is more dangerous than you think."

"I will. Do you need me to debrief later?"

"Tomorrow… well technically today. You can after she wakes up."

I nodded and she walked away. Opening the door, I saw Sakura laying in a bed. Her entire body had been healed and there was no sign of being beaten except for her skin being pale from the blood loss. Tsunade had really taken care of her. I took a seat in the chair beside her bed and laid my head beside her. My hand wandered till it found hers. This woman was so strong. No matter what they did to her, she didn't tell them anything. I really do need to stop underestimating her.

A light was coming through the wall of windows behind me. I must've fallen asleep. Lifting my head, I saw two green eyes looking at me. Her smile was soft and loving. Any anger that I had from yesterday was melted away. Our fingers were still interlocked from hours ago.

"Sakura… are you feeling okay?"

"I've been better. I'm just a little sore is all."

"I'm sorry."

"Don't be Sasuke. It's part of the job."

"It will never happen again as long as I'm here. I promise."

"When did you get that?"

"Oh, yeah...that...yesterday when I found you something inside of me snapped."

"Oh."

"What is it Sakura?"

"It's nothing. Tsunade has already been by today. She brought me clothes from my office here. I'm good to go when they give me the last of my pain killers."

"Good."

"You go ahead and go talk to her. Hinata is going to help me get home."

"Are you sure?"

"Yeah. I'll be fine."

I stood up, not untangling our fingers, and gave her a kiss. My mind was at peace since she was home and safe. I pulled my hand away and it instantly felt cold. My body was numb and I was hesitant to leave. I shut the door and saw Hinata walking down towards Sakura's room.

"Sasuke is she awake?"

"Yes. She's in a good mood but she's in pain. Be careful with her."

"That's good to hear and I will make sure she goes to bed at home. Ino wanted me to tell you to stop by her shop before you go home."

"Hn, thank you."

She gave me a small smile and I began my short walk down the hall and out the door. The hospital was right beside the Hokage Tower so I was at her office in a matter of minutes. Tsunade's desk was surprisingly neat and there were no scrolls or papers on the floor either.

"About time you woke up, so the others filled me in on what happened. We have Anbu on the way to the location to deal with the chamber."

"Good. We need to make sure that thing is destroyed."

"We found out the mans name is Asuka. He used to do business with Orochimaru and the snake lent him the equipment and the means to do whatever he wanted. Hopefully we can get all of his research and destroy it."

"Where is he now?"

"They are interrogating him now at a secret location."

"Hn."

"You are no longer on probation Sasuke. Also I am promoting you to Jonin. Team 7 will be allowed to go on missions together and so on. Also, your house should be done in a few more months."

"Thank you."

"Your welcome. Now go take care of our girl. No hospital shifts for her and I told Ino to come by her house later."

"I understand."

I left the room with a slight smile on my face. Hopefully this threat was going to be taken care of and wouldn't pop up again. My feet carried me to Ino's shop and she was waiting outside for me.

"Look Sasuke I'm sorry about yelling at you. I let my tempter and emotions get to me."

"Hn."

"I know you care about her and everything, could you at least show it?"

"I already have a plan for that."

"Good. Now take these and give them to Sakura. Hinata told me that she was on the way to the house. I'll be by tonight to help her take a shower and Tsunade doesn't want her to do too much."

"She told me. I'm going to go and make sure she's taking it easy."

"Wow. I got two sentences out of you."

She handed me a vase full of multicolored roses. They smelled good but nothing compared to Sakura's natural cherry blossom smell. Women eyed me the whole walk home whispering under their breath about who is the lucky girl or how they were jealous. I could barely keep a chuckle in once I reached the house. Hinata was sitting on the couch reading a book and Sakura was no where to be seen.

"She's asleep. I was just waiting on you. Those are beautiful."

"Thank you Hinata. You go home and spend some time with the dobe."

"I can do that."

She smiled and skipped out of the house. I carried the flowers into Sakura's room and placed them on her nightstand. Her face was soft as she slept and her pink hair framed her face. She looked like an angel on earth. I leaned down and gave her a small kiss on her forehead.

My body carried me upstairs to the shower. I threw off all of my clothes and weapons. Blood, dirt, and sweat were staining my body but the worst of it the only blood was from Sakura. Stepping into the steaming shower I could help but think about the upcoming festival. Sakura was so excited about it and honestly I couldn't wait either. On Saturday, during the festival, I'm going to ask her if she wants to make things official. I know that I'm not good at the whole emotions and relationship thing but she deserved this.

Washing off the dirt and sweat felt amazing. I know that Sakura would like to wash off after everything. I could help her take one before Ino got here. Stepping out of the shower I dried off and put on boxers and sweatpants. A small thud echoed upstairs and I ran to her room. Sakura was sitting on the floor rubbing her head.

"Sakura what happened?"

"I got up too quick and fell. I'm still dizzy from everything."

"Here. Let me help."

"Thank you Sasuke. Where did the flowers come from?"

"Ino's shop."

"Oh she sent flowers."

"Not really…"

"Who did?"

"Well I did."

Helping her sit back down in bed I went to her bathroom. I started the bath and put a few drops of bubbles in it. I returned and she had a confused look on her face.

"Who's taking a bath?"

"You are."

"Sasuke you don't have to. Ino will be here later."

"I figured I can help you."

Her face was red and the blush was spreading. I held my hand out for her and she took it. Helping her into the bathroom was easy, but then she had to get undressed and into the water. I turned around and she started laughing.

"Sasuke, you've already seen me like this. You can look if you want to."

Turning around I looked at her and had to keep myself in check. There were small pink lines on her arms and legs and there was a slight purple bruise on her abdomen. Guilt pained me and I wanted to punch something.

"Sasuke stop giving me that look. Everything is okay."

She stepped into the water and turned off the faucet. Her body instantly relaxed, her green eyes closed and her head laid back against the tub. I leaned my back against the tub facing the door.

"Sasuke thank you."

"For what?"

"Saving me and the flowers."

"You're welcome."

"Ah…"

I turned around quickly and her face was strained. She was trying to reach for her wash cloth but she stopped.

"Relax Sakura. You're in no rush."

Her face softened and she returned to her position. I was going to have to help her get cleaned up. I reached for the cloth and grabbed her body wash. Her eyes followed my movement and her blush returned and it was spreading down to the top of her breast. I lathered the cloth and I was hesitant.

"Sasuke I can do it if you hand it here."

"I got it. I've never done this before."

I reached for her arm and scrubbed it gently being careful of the newly healed skin. I switched arms and her blush was still bright red. My cheeks felt warm so I knew that I was blushing as well. I finished with her arms and helped her sit up so I could wash off her back. There were a few bruises back here as well.

"Sasuke…"

"Yeah?"

"I can do the rest. Just make sure I don't hurt myself."

"Okay."

She took the cloth from me and quickly washed the rest of her body. I guess she didn't want me to see every part of her yet. Even though just the other day we showered together. All that was left was to wash her hair.

"Let Ino help me wash my hair."

"Fine. Where is your towel?"

"In that small closet."

Jumping up I got the towel and helped her exit the tub. She giggled and dried her body off while I drained the water. Sakura was wrapped tightly in a white towel and she had a smile on her face.

"Do you want to take a nap with me?"

"That sounds like a great idea."

She slowly walked back into her room and laid down on the bed. I joined her and help her close to me. No one would take her from me again. We fell asleep and for once I was too tired for a dream.

Well today is the day of the festival, Sakura has been resting all week and she finally feels back to normal. It's been a pretty normal week. Ino popping in and Naruto always crashing plans but it felt like we were normal. That night Sakura came home from the hospital neither one of us woke up till the next morning. Ino said that she has stopped by but we were out cold.

Right now I'm helping the other male jonins set up for the festival at the training grounds. Tsunade was going over the top with everything. The male jonins didn't have to wear our normal festival clothes which was awesome because I didn't own any. All over the girls were at the house getting ready. They were going to meet us at dusk.

"Earth to Teme…. Do you want to go eat?"

"Ah yeah."

Today was going to be a long day but a good day. But I still had one more thing to get before everything started tonight.

Sakura's POV

The girls came to my house super early this morning. Sasuke managed to sneak out while they were carrying bags and bags of stuff. They were all super excited to get ready for the festival tonight. Tenten was going to change up her hairstyle tonight and wanted to see if Neji noticed or not. The other three of us had to figure out a style.

"Forehead why are Sasuke clothes in here?"

My face turned red. Sasuke has been sleeping in my bed with me all week. We both have slept so much better since it too. He's been leaving clothes in here too just in case someone came over.

"Umm…. I don't know."

"Oh that's a huge lie. Your face gives it away tell us."

"Well, Sasuke has been sleeping in here with me."

Ino started laughing while Hinata just smiled and Tenten's jaw was on the floor. Yeah everyone was either shocked or happy. Ino knew that it was about time and Hinata was excited for me. I think Tenten was in honest shock. She never really cared for Sasuke and his whole bad boy façade.

"Hey I'm going to go get a drink does anyone want one?"

"Sure Sakura. Water please."

"Sakura just bring a bottle of wine and four waters."

Ino was sitting on my bed reading through one of the books Sasuke had bought me. We had about five hours before we had to meet the guys. Walking down the hallway I heard the front door open. Sasuke came quietly walking in like he was trying to stay silent. I ran up to him and gave him a hug.

"What are you doing here?"

"I forgot something."

"Oh okay. Well I'll see you later."

I stretched up and gave him a small peck on the cheek. I returned to my task of getting wine and water. Returning to my room all of the girls were looking at Ino's phone in shock.

"What are you three looking at?"

The phone clicked off and she shoved in under her butt. All of their faces were red and they looked suspicious of something. Tenten ran to the bathroom to take a shower, Hinata started to lay out everyone's kimonos and Ino just sat in the bed wide eyed. Seriously what was their deal?

'Seriously? Why was Sasuke here too? Ino threatened him to not show up.'

'I know that remember I was here. They are hiding something from me and I don't like it.'

'Maybe we should just wait this one out.'

'Whatever.'

I poured myself a glass and slowly started to sip it. The kimonos looked amazing. Ino's was a light blue with silver flowers, Hinata's was a lavender with pink and blue flowers, Tenten's was green with yellow flowers and mine was red with pink flowers. We only wear these twice a year so it was fun to dress up.

Tenten emerged from the shower and then Hinata took her place. Ino and I just had to wash our hair since we showered this morning. There are two more bathrooms upstairs I don't know why we just use this one.

"I'm going upstairs to wash my hair. Ino you can use the spare room's bathroom."

"That's a great idea."

I ran into my bathroom and got my extra bottle of shampoo and conditioner. Walking into Sasuke's room I was at ease. The room smelt of his earthy scent and it felt like home to me. His bathroom door was open so I just walked on in, since it is my house. Leaning my head over the edge of the tub I scrubbed my scalp and rinsed then conditioned it.

I forgot my towel. I felt around until I reached a hanging towel. Wrapping my hair up I realized that this was Sasuke's towel. It was black with red trim, something that I would've never bought for my house. Ino emerged from the other bathroom the same time I did. Her hair was wrapped up in a white towel and she was carrying her glass.

"So Sakura are you excited about tonight?"

"Yes! This is the first festival that Sasuke and I are going to together."

"I know. I'm really happy for you."

"Thanks Ino. We should probably start getting ready. You three tend to take forever."

We both started laughing as we walked into my room. Hinata was drying her hair and Tenten was struggling to get her hair up. Our laughing continued. Helping our friends we all got ready for the festival and all I could think about was how much fun tonight was going to be.

After helping each other get into our kimonos we were ready to meet the guys. We had to meet them at the Hokage Tower so Tsunade can start off the festival. She was going completely crazy with it this year.

The streets were crowded as we made our way. Little girls were wearing miniature kimonos and little boys had on their formal attire. Parents were watching their kids play games, eating food and taking pictures. As we reached the tower we could see our guys waiting for us. I tired to sneak up on Sasuke but he turned to me before I could.

"Trying to sneak up on an Uchiha is a bad idea."

"Well I tried."

He placed a protective arm around my waist and pulled me in close. Naruto was holding onto Hinata as well. He looked nervous, which for Naruto was a huge thing because this loud mouth was never nervous. Sai was standing behind Ino holding her close while Tenten and Neji stood shoulder to shoulder.

Tsunade came out on the roof top of the tower. You could barely see her face, Sasuke was probably the only one that could, and she started to speak.

"Everyone! Please enjoy tonight and create many memories! Let the festival begin!"

She lit a firework and it shot up into the newly black sky. The colors were beautiful and I knew everyone else was staring in awe like I was. Looking back down Naruto started saying let the fun begin. He led our group as we walked through the busy streets. Sasuke never once let me out of his range of touch.

"Forehead, Hinata, Tenten lets get our picture taken!"

"That sounds like fun."

We ran to the booth leaving the guys behind. The woman running the booth maneuvered us to the position and took the photo. She made four copies and gave them to us. These were the little things in life that I loved, four friends that have been through hell and back but still manage to be close.

"Hey girls, let's go to the training grounds. We have something set up there."

"What is it Kakashi sensei?"

"Sakura, I'm not your sensei anymore. Plus it's a surprise."

I gave Ino and Hinata a glance as we followed. This time the guys were ahead of us and I locked arms with Ino.

"So what's going on?"

"I can't say but I do know about two things tonight. So let me see which one it is first."

"Huh?"

"Oh don't worry forehead."

As we reached the training grounds we all gasped. They had taken an area that we spar and train, and transformed it into a whimsical area. Lights were strung from the trees and candles were floating in the pond. Other civilians were here watching the fireflies dance. It was beautiful.

"How did you guys do this?"

"Just because we are ninja doesn't mean we don't have a gentle side."

Hinata was being dragged over to the pond by Naruto. He looked super nervous and I was giving Sasuke a glare. He chuckled and took me back into him arms. Hinata was standing and Naruto was in front of her.

"Hinata, you know that I love you. You've been there for me and you've helped me overcome obstacles. You help me see the good when all I see is nothing. I want to spend the rest of my life with you. Will you marry me?"

He kneeled down and pulled out a black box. Hinata was standing there staring at him, a few tears were gliding down her face. All she could manage to do was shake her head yes. Naruto gave the biggest smile I have ever seen and jumped up and spun poor Hinata around. Her younger self was showing.

I leaned into to Sasuke and whispered.

"So you helped your friends propose?"

"You could say that."

Naruto and Hinata rejoined the group. Her ring was simple but beautiful. It was three diamonds with the larger one in the middle. Ino hugged her and I gave Naruto a hug. My teammate was finally taking another step into adulthood.

"Let's party!"

Naruto started running and us girls tried to follow. These kimonos really didn't allow for much running. The first stop was a game where you have to catch a fish with a small net. It really was a kid's game but Naruto and Sai were trying to see who could win first. After trying everything Sai lost to Naruto because he stuck his whole arm in to win. A teddy bear was the prize and he handed it straight to Hinata, her blush was still covering her face.

Then we came back to the photo booth. The others were in line to take couple pictures.

"Sakura do you want to take one?"

"It's okay Sasuke. You don't have to. Let the couples take them."

"You don't want to take one with me because we aren't a couple?"

"No, no that's not what I meant!"

He pulled out a black box and handed it to me. My hand was shaking and I fiddled with the lid. I finally got the box opened and it was a beautiful necklace. It was the Uchiha clan symbol in rubies and diamonds. My heart is beating out of control, why did he give met this?

"Sasuke this is too much."

"No it's not. I want you to wear it that way people know who your heart belongs to. I know Im not good with this sort of thing but I want to try for you."

Tears started to build in my eyes and I hugged him. I've waited my whole life for this, for him to finally see that no matter what there was no other man for me. I pulled away and he put the necklace on me. I smiled at him and he returned it.

"About time Uchiha. Now go take a picture."

Ino was yelling as us in a teasing manner. We stepped up and the woman took our picture again. After she was done I grabbed Kakashi and stole Naruto from Hinata.

"We need a new Team 7 photo."

Under Kakashi's mask you could see him smiling and Naruto was over the moon. The woman made four copies and returned them to us. We continued our walk through the village until we ended up at the playground.

Fireworks were going off lighting up the night sky. We all stared up and enjoyed the moment of peace. Our lives have been anything but peaceful over the years. For once we could all say we felt normal. Once the fireworks ended we knew that it was over.

"Well Hinata and I are going home. See you all in the morning for clean up."

"Bye Naruto, bye Hinata."

Naruto grabbed her bridal style and started running. They were wanting to celebrate their new engagement. All of the men followed suit and ran off with their girlfriends. Sasuke, Kakashi and I were left standing in the park.

"Well I'm going home but we need to start training again since you are allowed on missions again."

"We can start tomorrow."

"Good. That will get us out of cleaning. See ya tomorrow."

With that Kakashi went walking towards his home. Sasuke and I walked hand-in-hand back to my house. Walking through the door I kicked off my shoes and started to undo my hair until Sasuke's hand stopped me.

"Sakura you looked beautiful tonight."

"Thank you."

"Let me help you."

He pulled the two chopsticks holding my hair out. The pink locks fell down and cascaded over my dress. He also took out the flower pins as well and I felt almost back to normal. I stood on the tips of my toes and our lips were pressed together. Sasuke moved his hands down to my waist and pulled me as close as he could. Every inch of our bodies were touching and that familiar knot was building. Sasuke wrapped his arms around me and started to carry me to the bedroom. My legs wrapped around his hips and I felt the familiar bulge forming.

One hand was holding me and the other was working on taking my obi belt off. My hands were ripping at the Jonin vest and I smirked against his mouth as I was tossed onto the bed. The kimono was opened slightly as I was laying back on the bed. Sasuke's eyes were glued to me and I felt the heat leave my flushed cheeks and continue to my neck. As I removed the kimono, Sasuke was ripping off his clothes to join me.

I was embarrassed and yet aroused at the same time. I've never been in this situation before so I can only trust him. Sasuke leaned down and pulled me into the center of the bed as he started kissing my neck and went down to my chest. Reaching behind me, he unclipped my bra and slid it off of my shoulders. The air was cold against my nipples. Sasuke smirked and attacked my right breast with his mouth. My back arched and a small moan escaped my mouth.

Pulling away he went to assault the other breast.

My body couldn't get enough of his attacks. It was like a jolt of electricity running through my veins. Sasuke slid down my stomach nipping at my skin along the way, I felt him stop at the last remaining item in his way. I lifted my hips slightly so he could slide them out of the way. Just like in the shower, Sasuke's fingers filled me and I arched my back off of the bed. The room filled with moans and gasps coming from the both of us.

"Ah…Sasuke"

"Sakura…you're so amazing."

I leaned my head back as another moan escaped my mouth. Two fingers were doing numbers to unravel my very existence, I needed more and I needed him. My arm reached for him and he brought his lips back to mine while my fingers weaved into his hair making him come up from his current task.

We broke apart for air but our foreheads were resting against each other. Our eyes are half way closed, glazed over with lust. Our breathing was staggered and the room was hot.

"I'm not going to do anything without your permission. Say yes and I will finish what was started."

My mouth let out another moan as he went back to his assault with his fingers. Yes, I wanted him more than anything else. When he pulled his hand away I sat up and kissed him. My hands pulled at his boxers and I could feel his erection through the thin material. He smirked in the kiss and pulled them off. Looking down I was in shock, I'm sure that my face says it all. How was that going to fit in me?

He laid me back down on the bed and I looked at him getting into position. Sasuke's body hovering over mine was something I had only ever dreamed of. He kissed the tip of my nose and pulled back just far enough to see my entire face. I gave him a soft smile and he knew where to go from there. With one thrust, Sasuke was filling me. There was a slight pain but nothing too uncomfortable.

Sasuke started out slow and soft. I nibbled on his neck and my nails were leaving marks on his back. I wanted more, no no I needed more.

"Sasuke…"

"Yes…"

"Faster…."

He was happy to oblige and his pace quickened. My head rolled back on the pillow and my body acted on instinct as both of my legs wrapped around him. Sasuke's face was something to be seen, pure pleasure was all he displayed. No pain, no anger just pure bliss with a huge hint of happiness.

My whole body was fire hot and the knot in my stomach was about to break. I could tell Sasuke was about at his limit too. He leaned down and our mouths fought for dominance one final time before we both went over the edge. I groaned into the kiss and the knot was gone. We were both covered in sweat but there were no complaints coming from either one of us. Sasuke rolled off of me and pulled my head to his chest. Rubbing circles on my bare back, I paced a kiss on his chest.

"Get some sleep Sakura. Tomorrow is going to be a long day."

"Okay Sasuke."

He continued to rub my back until I was asleep. That night I dreamed of the love of my life, Sasuke Uchiha.

This is the longest chapter I have ever written. I hope you all enjoyed it. Tonight I plan on starting the next chapter. Hopefully this story won't go too long. Please leave a review! Thank you for reading.