Sakura nearly fell out her seat at how Senna addressed Sasuke, but she couldn't be upset about it. It would be a long time before she would properly bond with him. She knew part of it would have to be herself showing some compassion towards Sasuke. Senna was a very intelligent child. If Sakura did not like him, Senna would not either. What child doesn't want to protect their mother? So she knew she would have to stop being so hard on him when Senna would be around. It would only make things more complicated. One thing she thought Senna deserved was to have her father in her life, not a father figure, but her own father. It's her fault now why she doesn't, she made things this way.
Sakura invited Sasuke to go with her as she dropped Senna off at her daycare. She needed to show Senna that she wanted this or all of it would be for nothing. She needed them to have a relationship.
When they dropped her off, Senna gave Sakura a big hug and kiss. As Sasuke watched, he was almost jealous. He wanted that relationship with her. The decision for him to be in her life was made for him. All of this was new to him. He did not even know if this was really his daughter, but he just felt a sudden urge to be a part of her life. To be around. To make her happy. He felt like he missed enough and he didn't want to miss more.
As Senna went to sit with some of her friends, Sakura hung up Senna jacket and book bag.
"Sakura-chan!" said a very familiar voice. Sasuke turned his head in the direction of the voice and was shocked to see a figure he hasn't seen in years.
Sakura smiled and gave Hinata a hug. "How is she doing?" asked Hinata.
"Much better. I know she missed it here and I know she hates being stuck in the house. She had a little stomach bug but she's fine now," said Sakura with a smile.
"That's great. I was going to come by and check but me-"Hinata eyes widened as she took notice of Sasuke's presence. "Sasuke-san?"
"Hyuuga," he said. He saw Hinata look at Sakura for a second before looking back to him.
Hinata walked up and shook his hand. "Very nice to see you Sasuke-san. It's been a very long time."
"Likewise," he said returning the handshake.
"Okay! So we have to go know. I'll be back after work to get her," said Sakura heading out the door with Sasuke.
As the duo left, they walked together in silence before Sasuke decided to speak up.
"So I'm going to be taking her this weekend and then I will aslo be taking her-"
"What are you taking about?" said Sakura stopping. You could hear the anger in her voice.
"I'm going to be taking her for the weekend and-"
"So you're just taking her? Without even asking me? Who are you just to come out of now where and tell me you're taking my child?" said Sakura.
"Our child," he corrected.
"Up until, what? This morning? You were convinced she was Itachi's child."
"Who wouldn't?" said Sasuke. Sakura scoffed and walked off. "You're not taking her!"
Sasuke walked fast to catch up with her but the next words that came out his mouth made her freeze in her tracks.
"I will sue you for full custody and have you deemed an unfit mother."
"Are you serious?" she asked.
"My family lawyer is on speed dial," he said with a glare.
"You're unbelievable!" she yelled. "She's all I have Sasuke, you can't do this."
"Then I take her tomorrow and you get her back Sunday night," he said.
Sakura scoffed but not before agreeing. "You know nothing about her! What's her favorite food? Her favorite color? Her favorite song? What position she sleeps in? Her favorite character? What cheers her up? What makes her sad? Nothing. This is some way to try and get into her life. And you do that by threatening me? She may be a child but she is smart. She is a very smart little girl and if she knows I hate you, then she will hate you." She glared at him then stared heading to work. Sasuke stared at her retreating form before heading back to his car and heading home.
Sasuke entered his penthouse and saw Itachi sitting comfortably yet uninvited on his sofa.
"Foolish brother," he greeted.
"Hn," was Sasuke's acknowledgement which earned a glance from Itachi.
"What is troubling you, little brother?" asked Itachi.
"I take Sakura's kid tomorrow for the weekend and I have nothing for a child," said Sasuke which earned a rare snicker from Itachi.
"She actually let you take Senna for the weekend?" he asked with raising his eyebrow at Sasuke.
Sasuke got silent before answering. "I threatened to sue her for full custody if she didn't let me take her."
Itachi walked up to Sasuke and flicked his forehead before he began reprimanding him. "Foolish little brother. You're only hurting the relationship with your child by doing that. Senna loves Sakura and she knows her better than you think she does. If Sakura is upset by you and only faking to be happy because Senna is around, Senna will pick up on it and she will hate you because Sakura does not like you and you will never build the co-parent relationship that is needed to take care a child. You and Sakura need to genuinely get along to be co-parents. It cannot be a hostile environment. You should apologize. She's not just your ex-girlfriend anymore foolish little brother. She's the mother of your child. You need to remember that."
Sasuke did not want to hear what Itachi had to say but he knew he was right. He needed to apologize. He couldn't see her anymore as the unfaithful ex-girlfriend. Despite the fact the she is, she is also the mother of his child and he needs to protect her as much as he needs to protect Senna.
Itachi walked over to the refrigerator and opened its doors, "By the way you have a mother and a girlfriend, and they can both help you decorate your spare bedroom for her."
No response from Sasuke made Itachi sigh. "You didn't tell them?"
"Hn," said Sasuke.
"Sasuke," said Itachi in a frustrated voice.
"You really want me to explain to Karin that I have a kid with Sakura?" asked Sasuke. "They hate each other."
"That's one sided. What about mother?" asked Itachi.
"I haven't spoked to her since I was in the hospital," said Sasuke.
"She will blow up with confetti about news of a grandchild. She also loves Sakura so that's a win-win," said Itachi.
"For mother," added Sasuke.
"Well, little brother, doesn't sound like you have much of a choice at this moment," said Itachi before his phone started ringing. "This is Sasori, I have to take this call," he said as he walked into a private corner of the room.
"Uchiha Itachi," greeted Itachi on the phone.
"Itachi, I was calling about the forms you gave me. Where should I send them and when do you need them by?" asked Sasori on the line.
"Yes, did you complete the form?" asked Itachi in a monotone voice, nothing against his fraternity brother, but this was business related.
"It is in the works now but-"
"That needs to be filled out and returned to me by the end of the business day for the deal to be official. It can be dropped off at the corporate building to the front desk receptionist and she would know what to do with it. Will there be any issues in the form getting back to me?" asked Itachi.
"None at all. I'll have Kabuto drop it off within an hour or two," asked Sasori. That name took Itachi by surprised.
"Kabuto? As in Yakushi Kabuto?" asked Itachi, the curiosity was clearly evident in his voice.
"Yes, he's been a part of my company for many years," educated Sasori.
"Alright, we will be in touch. Good bye," said Itachi before hanging up the phone. He stood in the corner and looked at his phone before returning back to Sasuke. He couldn't help be ease the feeling that this was the calm before the storm.
"I'm not calling mother," said Sasuke as Itachi returned.
"Then I will," said Itachi. He took out his phone, and began dialing his mother's phone number, ensuring to put it on speaker so Sasuke could hear the conversation.
"My Itachi-chan! What a surprise! How are you dear?" came his mother's ecstatic voice on the line.
"I am well mother. Sasuke is with me also," he answered. A rare small smile gracing his face at his mother's voice.
"Oh Sasuke-chan! To what do I oh the pleasure to receive a call from my two favorite boys?" she asked. Happiness was seeping from her voice.
"Well mother Sasuke actually-"
"I want you to go shopping with me," cut off Sasuke. Itachi was just going to break the news and it wouldn't have been fair to hear this from his brother. It's his news, it needed to come from him. So he would take her out shopping and break it to her that way.
"Of course! When would you like to go sweetheart?" asked Mikoto.
"Right now would be perfect. We have several places we have to go to," said Sasuke.
"Okay, I'll be over shortly," said Mikoto.
"Actually mom, I'll come get you," said Sasuke.
"Alright sweetie! I'll see you soon dear. I love you Itachi, bye!" she said before hanging up the phone.
"That takes care of our mother. What about your girlfriend?" asked Itachi.
"I'll tell her after me and my mother set up the room," answered Sasuke as he grabbed the keys to his SUV.
"I'm not even going to ask," commented Itachi grabbing the keys to his own vehicle.
"It makes it more real. Which it needs to be in her case. Lock the door behind you and turn on the alarm please," said Sasuke shutting the door behind him. Itachi smiled at the figure that left out the door. Sasuke may not have caught on yet but Itachi sure did. He was proud to see his foolish little brother taking responsibility for something. He also noticed that his brother hasn't even tried a recreational drug yet, granted the methadone prescribed to help with the symptoms of withdrawal, since his release. He only hopes his brother kicks the habit for good now that he will be taking care of a child.
He followed his brother's wishes before leaving out to his family's business.
He needed to intercept the delivery of that letter.
He needed to see Kabuto was around in the flesh.
Sasuke picked up his mother from his childhood house-mansion. Once she was in the car they headed for their destination- the mall. If rounded, he had about 24 hours before the child- his child, would be situated in his home and he nothing. The only thing in the room that would now be his daughter's was his guitar.
"To what do I owe this shopping trip for Sasuke-chan?" asked Mikoto.
"You will see when we get to the mall," said Sasuke. He didn't have the guts to bring up to his mother. He knew the disappointment she'd have, yet also the excitement she'd present. All she ever wanted was grandchildren and lots of them. If there wasn't anyone in the world he need to please, it would be his mother. She was his backbone despite all the hell his father puts in him. She always believed in him and stood up for him, when he no longer cared and slipped into the dark world. She just always wanted to make sure he was safe, even if it meant tracking his phone or sending his older cousin, Shisui to find him. He would be forever indebted to his mother.
The pair drove to one of the nicer yet further malls in Konoha. This mall, the Hidden Mall, had much more luxurious stores as well as furnishings store. Sasuke hadn't looked up many of the stores in this mall be he knew of a children's furnishings store from the details his brother had managed to look up when he left. He parked the car and exited the vehicle before walking to the other side to open the door for his mother who scowled at him saying she could have done it herself.
He couldn't help it.
His mother was a queen to him.
The duo walked through the mall, Mikoto noticing numerous things have changed since the last time she had been there. Sasuke took her arm in his and walked with her.
"I raised quite the gentleman," said Mikoto smiling vibrantly at her son's action. Sasuke used his other hand too look at the directions once more before walking to their destination.
"I'm sorry mother," said Sasuke.
"Oh sweetheart, you have nothing to be sorry for. I'm just so sick of how you're father shoots you down. It will stop. I will not let this continue any longer. He's causing you to question your self-value and your existence and no father should ever do that. He should never compare you to your brother, you are your own person dear, and he should be proud and respect that and love you for all the decisions you have made and will make," said Mikoto. This was the first time they spoke since his overdose. Sasuke was shocked by what she had to say. It almost made him tear up and he would have had they not been in the public setting. She was the reason he kept going. Know there was another. He gave her a tight hug which she was not expecting but just rubbed and patted his back telling him it's okay. The hug lasted a few seconds before releasing her.
"Thank you mom, but that was not why I was saying sorry," he said as he led her to the store that was now insight.
"You have nothing to be sorry for," she said again with a smile.
Sasuke made a turn into his store and it took Mikoto by surprise as he suddenly walked into a store. She looked around at the furnishings what seemed to be for a child's room. Some of the very fancy. She followed her son with confusion as they walked up to a sales associate.
"Welcome to our store, what can I help you find today?" asked the associate.
"Hn. My mother will be making all decisions as to what we buy but I am shopping for my 5 year old daughter's room," said Sasuke in his normal cold monotonous voice.
The look on Mikoto's face was outstanding.
You saw her expression change from confusion to anger to disappointment to pure excitement back to confusion.
"Of course, follow me this way to the different room themes we have on display," said the associate. "We will be with you in one second," said Mikoto mustering the nicest smile he could muster.
"What are you talking about Sasuke?" said Mikoto in a very stone voice dropping the suffix she typically adds. It internally made Sasuke shutter.
"I have a 4 year old daughter, her name is Senna, mom," answer Sasuke.
"4? 4 years old? And you're just now telling me this? Have you lost your damn mind Uchiha Sasuke? I'm just learning of this? So are you going to marry Karin now? Is that why you and Karina are still together because-"Sasuke cut her off.
"She's not with Karin," said Sasuke and that made Mikoto halt in her tracks.
"Sasuke! I told you about safe sex years ago! You have a one night stand and this is the result. Are you sure it's your child and that this woman isn't just pinning her child on you for our family fortune?" said Mikoto.
"Mom… it's with Sakura. Sakura and I have a child together," said Sasuke and the shocked expression that took her face was a little amusing. What actually shocked him was the sudden expression of happiness.
"Oh wow! Are you guys getting back together?" asked Mikoto.
"We are not. I'm honestly just learning that we share a child together. I found out a few days ago and I was just as shocked. So, this weekend, Sakura and I, agreed that our daughter, Senna, should stay with me for the weekend. I have nothing in place for a child. I have nowhere for her to sleep and I didn't child proof my apartment. Does it even need to be child proof for age? What kind of snacks should I have for? What do I make for her? She doesn't even have clothes so should I buy her clothes to have at my apartment?" asked Sasuke. He went on a rant that was out of character for him but he can do that in front of his mother. She just smiled and hugged him once more.
"That's why I'm here dear. Now let's not keep the very patient associate waiting. I see a gorgeous princess display that would be perfect," said Mikoto heading in the direction of the associate.
He couldn't thank Kami enough for his mother.
Sakura sat in the break room and long and behold Gaara was there. She couldn't help but smile at him but he read that smile. It was sad one.
"What's going on?" he asked.
"Remember that story I told you about my daughter's father?" asked Sasuke.
"You mean the lie? Of course I remember," he said.
Not in a joking mood she rolled her eyes. "Well he magically appears in her life and is taking her tomorrow night for the weekend to his place."
"You get a weekend to yourself. Shouldn't you be happy about that?" he questioned.
"Gaara, there is so much more to the story which is why I am not happy about it. I think me and her are going to get milkshakes tonight so I can explain to her that she will be with him this weekend," she said with a sigh laying her head on the table.
"Tomorrow night, let's go to the bar and you can talk about over alcohol," he suggested and Sakura smiled.
"Sounds like a plan to me. I haven't gone out in so long. I don't really have friends anymore," said Sakura.
"I'm offended," said Gaara.
"You know I didn't mean it that way. If you want, invite some of your friends too," said Sakura.
"Really? You okay with that?" asked Gaara.
"Absolutely," she said just as her pager went off. "Pediatric trauma coming in, I'll see you later Gaara."
She smiled and waved as she walked away. He instantly took out his phone and starting messaging some friends.
Sasuke and his mother climbed into his SUV and sat there for a second before he started the engine.
"I never knew so much that went into a child," he said in disbelief to his mother. She just giggled.
"Aren't you glad I came Sasuke-chan?" said Mikoto.
"Easily spent a fortune today," said Sasuke.
"You are well off Sasuke! Do not be like that. I'll be happy to spend everything I have on you and Itachi-chan," said Mikoto.
"I didn't mean it like that. It's just overwhelming," he answered truthfully as he started heading in the direction of his mother.
"It's bringing your child home the first time, it's always overwhelming but you will love every second of it," she responded with a smile.
"I don't what I'm doing mom," he said.
"No parents ever know in the beginning but they learn along the way. It's a little late in your case but you will learn what to do and what not to do," she said patting his shoulder but then she went back to business. "So the delivery drivers will be at your apartment first thing tomorrow morning. 7am sharp. You had to pay a little extra but they will set up everything the way I told them. I sketched them a picture how it should be set up. In about 2-3 hours, painters will be at your apartment also to paint the room." Sasuke looked confused as to how she managed to do all this without him noticing. "They need to do it this afternoon so it will be dry before the delivery people come. I will come by and do the finishing touches around noon or sooner then you should be all set. I just can't wait to meet her!"
"Thank you," was all he could muster.
"No problem sweetheart," she said. It was a comfortable silence before Mikoto asked the question.
"So are you going to go to rehab?" she asked straightforward. "Sakura was a part of your care team in the hospital, she knows you have a dependence issue."
Sasuke remained silent and Mikoto didn't ask any more questions. It was silent with the radio playing faintly as he pulled up to his childhood home. As she exited the car, she got her answer.
"I plan to," was all he said.
Mikoto just smiled. "If you need anything, call me. I love you sweetheart," she said walking into their family home.
Sasuke came back to an empty apartment, which was very unusual for him. Since he's been released he notice that someone is always with him. Mostly his brother, but when his brother wasn't here, it was his Mother or a friend. He was being monitored for another incident, and he knew it.
He went into his bedroom and laid across his bed falling into a deep sleep.
He could use the nap.
It was late in the evening now and Sakura took Senna to a nearby dinner that was known for their milkshakes. Sakura ordered a chocolate one and Senna ordered a cookies and cream milkshake. She was sipping away happily but Sakura just stared with a smile on her face.
"What's wrong mommy?" asked Senna. She felt that her mom was looking at her weird.
"You're going to be really mad at me," said Sakura.
"I won't," said Senna.
"You're staying with Sasuke for the weekend," said Sakura. She just ripped the Band-Aid off, not sugar-coating it. Senna just laid her head on the table in silence.
"I told you that you would be mad at me," said Sakura.
"I'm not mad," said Senna drinking her milkshake once more. Her demeanor returned to how it was seconds before.
"I promise I'll make it up to you. We can do whatever you want for one day," said Sakura and Senna got a mischievous smile plastered on her face.
"Anything?" she questioned.
"Within reasonable limits and only if Sasuke says that you behaved over the weekend," said Sakura and Senna nodded.
"I really want you two to have a relationship Sen. Me and him may not see eye to eye but he cares about you and he's putting an effort towards having a relationship with you. Please don't give him a hard time," begged Sakura. As much as she wished her daughter would make hell fall upon his home, she knew it would be wrong. Senna exited her seat and climbed into the seat with her mom and hugged her. "Yes mommy." She knew her daughter well but in this particular moment she didn't know if her daughter was being genuine or pulling one over on her.
Today was a big for Sasuke, Sakura and Senna too. Sakura would experience a weekend without her daughter for the first time ever. Sasuke would experience raising a child and Senna would be spending a full weekend with her father. Life changing for everyone. Sakura dropped Senna off the daycare and went to work. She cried on her way to work realizing she won't be seeing her again for a few days. Most parents go through this earlier but she never got to experience it.
Sasuke has been a wake since 5 in the morning. His mother forgot to mention she had people coming to place carpet in the room. So he awoke to banging on his penthouse door and ever since he heard sanding and hammering and nailing and other noises that just stopped his sleep entirely. He wanted it be upset but he was grateful. He was curious as to why the carpet needed to be placed in the first place. What damage could hard wood do? The team was great despite the noises they made. They didn't ask him a single question regarding the room. His mother must've left them design notes as to how she wanted to be.
It was now 6:50am and the delivery team was early by a few minutes. He was awake so it no longer mattered. He signed the forms needed and he let them get to work. They were much quieter but Sasuke couldn't go to sleep knowing that his door was wide open with people constantly going in and out. It took them roughly 4 hours to get the room set up. That's bringing it in from the truck assembling it and putting it in the proper places according to his mother. They checked multiple times before confirming with Sasuke that they were done. He was curious to see what the room looked like. He hasn't been in there since he removed the guitar from the room. That was before anything was done.
Sasuke decided to shower while he had some spare time until his mother came by. What was fascinating was that it hasn't hit him that Senna was coming over. He was married about explain the little human to Karin than anything. He knew it would be a fight which he was not up for. He sat with his head under the water faucet for what seemed like hours before he stepped out. He dried off and put clothes on before exiting into the living room and be nearly scared to death by his mother hurrying in and out of Senna's new room. He needed to remember to take the key he gave her away.
"When did you get here?" he asked gaining her attention. Mikoto was startled for a second before she gave him a hug.
"I got here as I saw the delivery team leaving. I had to make a few stops to my car for the things I got. I heard you in the shower, I didn't want to disturb you dear," said Mikoto giving him a hug and he leaned down a little since he was taller than her so they could give each other a kiss on the cheek.
"Now go get the rest of the bags from my car dear. We are on a time limit!" she said handing Sasuke the keys to her car before walking back to Senna's new room. Sasuke rolled his eyes and put his shoes on before doing his mother's request.
For what seemed like hours, Mikoto was running back and forth with decorations. Sasuke just stayed in his room with the exception of going to the bathroom and grabbing a snack. It was now 2:30 in the afternoon and Mikoto was finally finished.
"Sasuke-chan, come looked at the finish product!" she yelled from the room. Sasuke didn't really care to but he would do it for his mom. He made his way to one of the additional bedrooms in his penthouse and he was utterly shocked by transformation of the room though he didn't show it. The room was painted a light orange color. There were drapes from the ceiling that housed a very pretty chair that had string lights in the drapes (like a canopy). In another corner of the room there was a vanity set up strung lights with flowers and a little tea table. Another corner of the room had toys such as a doll house, doll babies, dolls for the doll house. What really stole his attention was the bed. It was like a castle almost, with stair on both side and a flat surface at the top which Mikoto had set up with stuff animals having a tea party and in the center below was the bed itself with pillows. He really though it was amazing. He didn't even recognize the room. Mikoto also hung string lights around the trimming of the walls to give it special lighting. It was a girl's dream room.
"Wow," was all he could muster to say.
"I know dear. Isn't it amazing? It's amazing how one image in your head can actually come to life," said Mikoto taking a seat at the island in the kitchen. Sasuke followed her and stood across from over the island.
"Are you nervous? You only have a few hours until she arrives," asked Mikoto.
"I feel the same," said Sasuke.
"As the time gets closer, the more you will start to feel it. I just can't wait to meet her," said Mikoto.
"We will see," said Sasuke. It was then the bell to downstairs started buzzing. He walked to the corner by the door and pressed the button to activate the camera and saw Karin staring at the camera with an annoyed look on her face. He pressed the button until she opened the door to make her way to his home.
"Is that Itachi?" asked Mikoto.
"No, Itachi has full access so he can just walk up here. It's Karin," said Sasuke. Mikoto grabbed her purse and keys. "Well, I would love to stay for the child conversation but I really have to get going," said Mikoto. She kissed Sasuke on the check and exited his home passing Karin who she greeted with a smile.
Karin entered the apartment and sat exactly where Mikoto was sitting. Across from Sasuke.
"So where you just going to keep ignoring me or something? Because I really would like to know why you can't answer a simple text message. I had to go to my uncle's dinner party by myself last night. Everyone was expecting me to bring you but instead you decide that you have your own plans and decide-"
"We need to talk," said Sasuke taking out a bottle of water out the fridge and taking a drink.
"I'm talking now so I don't know what more could there-"
"Karin," he said in a deep voice and he stopped talking.
"What's wrong Sasuke-kun?" she asked.
"My daughter will be spending the weekend here," he said. Karin had a dumbfounded look on her face.
"Yeah, right. Daughter? You don't have kids Sasuke-kun. You don't want any," said Karin laughing and taking a sip of her water.
Sasuke just stared at her with an unreadable blank face.
"Okay, so what do we really have to talk about?" she said after a giggle.
"I'm not joking," he said getting annoyed.
"Right, and I'm in love with Itachi," said Karin.
Sasuke rolled his eyes and walked to Senna's new bedroom and opened the door and stood in the door way just staring at Karin.
"What?" she asked. He just stared at her.
"That's where you keep your guitar. What?" she asked again. He just stared at her. She huffed her breath and walked to the room and froze in her tracks upon seeing the newly designed bedroom. She entered and took in all the details. Her eyes specifically fell on the painted orange letters on the wall "'Senna'.
"My daughter will be spending the weekend here," he said again, walking to take a seat on the couch watching the television. Karin stormed out the room and stood in front of him furious.
"Since when?" said Karin.
"She's turning 5," he said. "Can you move out the way?"
"Are you fucking kidding me Sasuke? With who? How could you never tell me? Did you cheat on me? You cheated on me that long ago? I cannot believe you? Your such-"
"It was before we got together," he answered. Looking past her at the TV unbothered.
"With who?" she asked.
"It doesn't matter. What matters is that my kid will be staying here," he said.
Karin was livid. She grabbed her stuff and stormed to the door. "I will be back later," she said.
As she exited Itachi came in nearly getting toppled by Karin storming out.
"I'm guessing you told her foolish little brother," said Itachi shutting the door behind him as he entered.
"Hn," he said.
"She will grow over it," he said.
"I hope," was all Sasuke said.
"We also need to talk about the terms of you returning to back to the company Sasuke," said Itachi.
"Hn," he said going into his room.
Time flew by and before Sasuke knew it. He was driving to the daycare to pick up his daughter. He forgot that he needed a car seat for Senna to ride inside his car but luckily his mother had one installed into his car when she came by and left written instructions on how to secure her properly in the seat.
He arrived and entered the day to be greeted by Hinata.
"Hello Sasuke-san, Sakura-chan told me you would be coming to pick up Senna," she said preparing some documents for him to sign.
"Hn," was his response.
"I need you to fill out this paperwork really quickly and then you just have to sign another paper saying you are picking her up today.
"What's all this for?" he asked filling out the documents.
"Its paperwork stating your relationship to Senna, consent forms and identification purposes so we can verify your identity if you ever pick her up again, and listing you as a second emergency contact," said Hinata.
"Is this standard?" he asked.
"Some of it, yes. Sakura-chan asked me to list you as reputable to pick up Senna and as an emergency contact since you will be picking her up more often," said Hinata.
"Hn," he was shocked at that. He didn't think Sakura would allow him this type of access. He made a mental note to thank her. As he signed the last paper, Hinata came back holding Senna's hand and gave Sasuke her backpack. Sasuke took her items and held her hand.
"Bye," he said to her than left hand in hand with Senna.
As the pair walked to his car, Senna broke the silence.
"Are we walking?" she asked.
"No, we are driving?"
"Me and mommy always walk," she said.
"I don't live walking distance from here," he answered.
"I want to walk," she stated.
"We are driving," he said.
"Then I'm not going," she said pulling her hand out of his and standing her ground.
"Senna, let's go," he said.
"No. I want to walk," she said.
"I'm not going to repeat myself," he said running his hands through his hair getting slightly annoyed at her behavior. He had no idea what a temper tantrum was.
"No," he said. She crossed her arms over her chest and stood where she was. Sasuke rolled his eyes and picked her up and put her over his shoulder and continued their pursuit to his car.
"Put me down, I want to walk!" she said hitting is back with her small hands.
"We are walking. We are walking to my car," he said. As he walked with his daughter slung over his shoulder like a sack of potatoes, passerby's smiled in admiration of him and whispering about how cute they were together.
Senna sighed and went limp. "Fine." A ghost of a mile was present on Sasuke's face.
She had Sakura's attitude.
The pair arrived at his home and Senna was in awe at the floor to ceiling windows. She ran up to them and looked out the window.
"The people look so small," she said pressing her face and hands to the glass.
Sasuke heard her but didn't respond. So far things were going well. He had to admit, it was awkward. He didn't know what to say to her, but he also didn't want to leave her alone. "Would you like something to drink?" he asked.
"No," she answered. She turned around to face him and looked around. She went to the couch and climbed up to sit down taking off her jacket and bag and putting it on the floor. She sat in silence too. She herself didn't really say anything. Sasuke poured himself a glass of water and drank it trying to come up with something else to say to Senna.
"Want to watch TV?" he asked. She nodded excitedly and Sasuke turned on a children's movie for her to watch which she did. He picked up her jacket and put it neatly across the back of the couch. As she watched the movie, Sasuke went into his bedroom and texted his mother for help. He didn't know what to do. He wasn't worried as time got closer to her coming or when he picked her up from daycare. He was nervous now that she was here. He didn't know what to do. The only thing he managed to do was put the television on. He needed help. Roughly 45 minutes later, Mikoto was walking into his apartment, startling Senna. Sasuke came out of his room when he heard his front door open.
"Oh Sasuke-chan! I left as soon as you called and I got stuck in traffic on the way here, you know because of rush hour and all. I would've been here sooner," said Mikoto. Sasuke gave her a quick hug and thanked her for coming sooner than expected.
"Where is she?" asked Mikoto staring at Sasuke.
"She's sitting on the sofa, look at us like we are insane," he said. Mikoto turned around and due to the positioning of the kitchen island, she couldn't see Senna. She walked closer and the moment her eyes landed on her, she put her hand to her mouth and gasped. Sasuke looked at his mom with pure confusion. Mikoto ran up and gave Senna a big hug. Senna hugged her back politely. Mikoto separated and just stared at Senna.
"I apologize for so rudely not introducing myself. My name is Mikoto Uchiha. I am Sasuke's mother, and I am your grandmother. You're my first born grandchild and I'm just so happy to finally meet you," said Mikoto hugging Senna once more. Senna returned the hug this time it was genuine.
"Did Sasuke-chan show you your bedroom?" she asked. Senna shook her head. Mikoto shot a glare at Sasuke and proceeded to show Sasuke the room. He followed suit and he for the first time he saw an expression other than stern face on his daughter, and he loved. Anyone could tell the child was shocked. He mouth was open in an 'o' and her eyes was wide. That expression slowly turned into a smile. Mikoto started showing her everything. Sasuke sat in the living room on the sofa while Mikoto showed her everything. The two were in the room for a while and he heard their laughing constantly. He was happy they were bonding.
A couple hours passed by and Karin came back. She entered his apartment, they made eye contact. She went into his room and shut the door. He looked back at the television ignoring her. He was not going to feed into her drama. He got up and went into Senna's room and saw that she was already dressed for bed in yellow pajamas sitting on her bed with his mother doing a puzzle. He was almost confused at how she took a bath because they never left the room but he actually forgot there was a bathroom attached to the bedroom. Mikoto smiled at Sasuke and stood up before facing Senna.
"I have to go now dear," said Mikoto. Senna's face shot up from the puzzle and you could see the disappointment on her face. "I'll be back tomorrow." Mikoto gave her a hug and kiss on the forehead before leaving. Sasuke escorted her to the door and kissing her on the cheek before she left. When he shut the door behind her he turned around to see his daughter standing behind him.
"What's wrong?" he asked.
"We forgot my hair," she said staring up at Sasuke.
"What about it?"
"My mommy was going to wash it today," she said. Sasuke washes his own hair so he had experience in this field.
"I'll do it," he said. Senna ran and grabbed her bag and stood in the kitchen which threw Sasuke off. "In the bathroom," he said.
"No," was her answer. He really started to hate that word.
"Why not?" he said.
"We do it at home," she said. Sasuke sighed and sat her on the counter facing him. He started running the water to a warm temperature but one that was not for her. He sat out the conditioner and shampoo on the counter.
"You have to take the pins out," said Senna.
"What pins?" he asked.
"In my hair," said Senna pointing to her bun. Sasuke started running his hands through her bun removing the black bobby pins hidden in her hair holding her hair in place. Once he took the pins out, Senna took out the hair tie and her hair fell down her back in waves to her lower back from the bun.
"Your mom's hair used to be that long," he said. Looking at her, he saw a younger version of Sakura.
"It still is. It used to really short," said Senna. That was news to him. Once Sakura cut her hair the first time, she swore she would never grow it out again. Sasuke began washing her hair and it went relatively smooth. He successfully completed the process and grabbed a towel to dry her hair so her clothes don't get wet.
"Done," he said helping her off the counter.
"You didn't dry it," she said.
"That's what the towel is for," he said.
"Mommy uses a dryer," she said.
"I don't have one," he said.
"It's in my bag," she answered. Sasuke went through it and sure enough there was a brush and hair dryer.
"I don't know how to do this Senna,"
"You dry it and brush it so it doesn't curl," she said.
"So what doesn't curl?" he asked.
"My hair," she answered. "It's not hard. I can show you." Sasuke walked around to the other side of the island and picked her up and put her on the stool plugging the dryer.
"See like this," Senna started showing him with a little piece of her hair. He almost laughed because her little hands could barely hold the dryer upright.
"Okay, I think I got it," he said. He started doing it correctly. She had a lot of hair so it ended up taking up some time to do. He ended facing the stool towards the television so she could watch while he did it. Once he was done, packed up her dryer, shampoo and conditioner.
"Let's go you have to go to bed," he said. Senna followed him into her room and watched as she got under her blankets. He plugged in the night light his mom showed him and was about to leave her room.
"My mommy tucks me in," she said and Sasuke sighed. It was started to get really annoying being told what Sakura does and doesn't do. He went back and attempted to tuck her which he failed miserably but he tried.
He sat on the edge of her bed and looked at her seriously, "Is there anything else your mother does?"
"No," she said turning on her side away from him. He got up and was about to leave her before deciding to sarcastic. "You sure? Bedtime kiss, stories, jokes, hugs? Does she dance with before bed? Does she sing you a song?"
"She used to sing to me but she hasn't done it in a long time," she said quietly. Sasuke stood for a second before saying "Good night" and exiting her room. He straightened up the living room before entering his bedroom where Karin was laying in his bed under the comforter watching a movie and climbed in the bed with her. They sat in silence before Karin decided to speak up,
"Nice of you to finally join me," she said texting away on her cell phone.
"You could have come out there," he said getting annoyed at the comment.
"Another time. Now you can give me attention," said Karin putting her phone away. After the amount of stress he had for one day, who was he to turn down sex. Karin straddled him and began kissing him. It wasn't passionate but intense and filled with lust. She began to take his shirt of and he was attacking her lips with hunger. It wasn't until a soft knock in his bedroom door stopped him dead in his tracks. He almost threw Karin off of him. He opened his bedroom door and saw Senna looking down at the ground sliding her foot across the carpet.
"I'm scared," she said so soft Sasuke could barely hear her. He frowned.
"What does your mother do when you're scared?" he asked.
"She lets me swatch a movie and sleep in her bed," she said. Sasuke stepped to the side for Senna to enter and Karin looked at him in disbelief. He made a motion with his head signaling her to move over so Senna could get in. When Senna entered the room, he closed the door behind her and allowed her to climb into the bed right in between the two. Sasuke scrolled through movies so Senna could decide. When she decided, he turned the bedside light off and started watching the movie.
He looked over at Karin who mouthed, "Are you serious right now? She's cock-blocking,"
He looked at her and shrugged mouthing back "She's my kid."
Karin rolled the other side away from the two and went to sleep.
He was expecting to get laid, but he was not expecting his daughter to ruin it but she will always come first.
Sakura sat at the bar counter laughing a story Gaara told sipping away at a very strong strawberry Margarita. So far it was just those two, Gaara was waiting for some of his friends. She pulled out her phone and saw no new messages. She was sure Sasuke would have called her by now admitting he could not care for Senna but he was proving her wrong. She put out her phone letting a slight yawn escape her mouth.
"Are you tired?" asked Gaara.
"No, but my physical clock would be sleep by now cause of my daughter," said Sakura smiling.
"How does it feel not having her?" he answered.
"Wrong. It felt weird not going to get her. It was quiet home too. It just feels…wrong," she said.
"Well now you have some time to yourself. Enjoy yourself for once. You one of the hardest workers I know and I don't just mean that in the sense of being at work either. You are great at your job and you're a great mother. You always put your daughter first even while finishing the application process for medical school fast track program. You deserve free time," he said genuinely. Sakura reached over and gave him a big hug which he returned. She needed to hear that.
"OY! Gaara! Long time no see!" said a familiar voice. The two broke their hug and Sakura was shocked at the group that entered. Gaara got up from his seat walked over to Naruto and pulled Naruto into a brotherly hug. "Nice to see you Naruto."
The two walked back over and that's when Naruto noticed Sakura.
"Sakura-chan!" he shouted rushing over to her. Her name made the rest of his group look over shocked halting in their places. Naruto wasn't alone. Along with him was Shikamaru, Neji, Hinata, Ino, and Tenten. They all were shocked at seeing her with the exception of Hinata. Sakura was shocked to see Hinata, she didn't think she still spoke to Ino and Tenten led alone Neji.
Naruto gave her a hug and everyone was crowded in a circle," I didn't know you and Gaara knew each other!"
"Yeah, we work together," said Sakura with a smile.
"It's her first night out kid-free so I told her let's go out for drinks and that I'd be friends. Such a small world," said Gaara.
"Very," muttered Sakura. Naruto heard her and realized a group of her former friends were there. Naruto realized they needed some time so he pulled the guys away. Once the guys were gone Sakura looked at the ground as Ino, Hinata and Tenten approached her. It was awkward until Ino pulled Sakura into a bear hug. Only for it to be broken apart by Tenten who pulled her into one too.
"Thanks for dropping off the face of the Forehead! I thought you died. How could you just disappear like that and not tell anyone," said Ino.
"Really. No one could contact you. We were going to have a funeral and everything," said Tenten.
"She's not lying. I called every coroner's office in Konoha looking for you. Did you know it's against the law for them to confirm your death to me? I told them I was your sister, called back and told them I was your aunt and they told me I needed to come show them proof because they can't say anything over the phone," said Ino rolling her eyes.
"It's called HIPAA," said Sakura.
"It's stupid. I'm glad you're okay though," said Ino with a bright smile present.
"I thought you guys hated me," asked Sakura.
"What?" said Tenten.
"You're my best friend Forehead. How could I ever hate you?" said Ino.
"Sasuke made sure that-"
"Sasuke is full of shit," said Tenten.
"Yeah, totally," agreed Ino taking a seat along with Hinata and Tenten.
"But-"
"Sasuke never said a thing to us about what happened. He just said you left and that was it," said Tenten.
"Yup! He just said you guys broke up and that it was end of story- you know in a lesser words then that boom- next thing we know he's with Karin. That's all she wrote," said Ino ordering a round of shots.
Sakura finally got to turn her attention to Hinata, "I thought you haven't talked to them."
"I did. I just never told them I was still in contact with you because I respect your privacy Sakura-chan," said Hinata with a smile and Sakura gave her a quick hug.
"Wait, you guys still spoke to each other?" asked Ino baffled. "I'm offended. No offense Hinata."
"I use her facility," said Sakura.
"She runs a daycare facility," said Ino taking her shot and ordering another.
"Exactly," said Sakura taking hers also. Hinata slid hers away having no intentions of drinking.
"I'm confused," said Ino.
"I have a daughter," said Sakura.
"This is too much for one night," said Ino. "Excuse me bartender! I need another round of shots and make them a double!"
Everyone just laughed and at that point Naruto and the others joined them and it was a great atmosphere. Sakura ensured the conversation ceased once the guys came around. She asked the girls to respect her wishes about them not knowing she had child. It was Sasuke's job to tell her his friends like she told her own. During the night, Sakura caught up with what everyone was doing. Tenten was an engineer for a weapons manufacturing company and she was also dating Neji who was managing Hinata's father's company. Ino ran her family's business and started a side fashion business and was currently in an on-again off-again relationship with Shikamaru (they are currently on which is why she's here) who was too lazy to even talk about his career. All she knew was it was in logistics. Apparently since returning back to the area, Naruto and Hinata reconnected and where somewhat seeing each other. He worked under Sasuke's family which was news to her but not that shocking since they were best friends despite what Sasuke would say.
Sakura was happy to know they all still thought about her and was worried about her, even Neji. Sasuke really held a good bluff. What Ino said was true, Sasuke never even mentioned what happened to them. Ever since Naruto found out what happened between them and the current status of their relationship, he kept his mouth shut. That was a shock because she knew Naruto couldn't keep a secret to save his life in college and high school.
For the first time in a long time, she was happy to have people around her again.
You forget what it's like to have friends when you isolate yourself.
First and foremost. I thought I last updated the end of October/Beginning of November which is why I took so long for this. Turns it was actually August. So this was all my fault for misreading. It worked on it in bits and pieces so you start to see the tempo change because I wanted to get this out so bad. I made it almost twice (2 chapters long) to make up for the delay and I hope you guys appreciate it.
Couple things:
I was going to post a picture on profile of the room design but then I lost the picture because I had to get my computer hard reset because I literally had 0 storage and I couldn't even put it on the flash drive that I use. So for description purposes, just google princess rooms.
Sasuke will be a softy with his mom, don't ask me to change it. My boyfriend is the biggest jerk to everyone but me and his mom. (I condone him for being mean in my defense). Like he's even a bigger baby to his mom than he is to me and I love it which is where I got the idea. I'm a baby to my mom too.
I do not have kids so I'm basing Senna's development of my niece (who is 5 now) and what my nephew was doing when he was 5 and also the development level of children that I learned and school so forgive me if she's a little advance for an almost 5 year old, I'm basing it off of textbook and personal experience.
The hair idea was a cute thing to do. I had the same thing happen to me but with makeup because I have no idea how to put it on etc. So I thought it would be a cute bonding scene.
I digress.
I know the ending is rushed so please do not attack me for it. I told you my circumstances.
Please review. Even if it's just like a bump.
It makes me aware of the last time I updated.
Life picks up next semester.
Until Next Time.
