Disclaimer: Is anyone else excited about the latest Naruto chapters? I always feel happy whenever I see Sakura in action. And Sasuke is getting hotter by the minute. :D Anyway, Naruto isn't mine unfortunately. :D I hope you'll enjoy this chapter. It took longer than usual. :D


Chapter Seven

Just Be Friends

"I had known at the very deepest depths of my heart that the best choice was the hardest from the very start. It keeps on opposing me, since I know my love cannot be."

– song by vocaloid Megurine Luka


Sakura leapt from tree to tree. Her hand grasped a branch and propelled her body forward. While she was soaring, she closed her eyes and breathed in the fresh air. She loved this part during missions. Travelling was one of her favorite times. She anticipated the feeling of rush that went through her lungs as she ran towards her destination. She lived for the excitement that had her heart pumping as she faced the dangers ahead. It was a good day. The weather was perfect for travel. Actually, the day itself would've been perfect if she didn't feel so nervous. She looked behind her and frowned.

Sasuke was acting like a stranger. He had his anbu mask on and had not said one word ever since they left the village gates. She felt disappointed. Weren't they supposed to get along during this mission? What was he so angry about? Did it have something to do with what had happened before they started the mission? She inwardly cringed. Maybe she should've kept her mouth shut.


A few hours ago.

"My lovely Sakura! Please accept this parting gift!" Sakura turned to find Rock Lee running towards her with a bouquet of flowers. Red roses. Tons of them. Her eyes almost fell out of her sockets as she stared shocked at the craziness of the situation. She was about to leave for a mission for Kami's sake! What made him think that she would be able to take all of those with her?

Sasuke's eye widened at the display as well. Was this guy stupid or something? He continued to observe the scene in front of him.

"Lee-san, this really isn't necessary." She placed her hands in front of her as he approached her.

"But Sakura-san, this is the first time in a long time that you have gone on a dangerous mission since the Fourth War." He loudly stated. His voice was extra loud today. Sasuke tried not to narrow his eyes at the annoyance he felt.

Sakura placed her hands on her hips and glared at the green beast.

"What are you trying to say?" she cocked an eyebrow.

Sasuke smirked. He was about to see an interesting event. Sakura did not like it when people underestimated her. He vaguely remembered one escort mission wherein a perverted daimyo continued to complain about being protected by a girl.

"A pretty babe like you shouldn't be fighting scary ninjas. Come sit on my lap and amuse me." The old man had stated with an ugly leer. Sasuke had to hold back the urge to send a fireball his way. Sakura however looked as if she hadn't heard a word the client had said. He smirked as he recalled the face that idiot had when Sakura threw a boulder at an enemy that ambushed them. Her strength surprised people. It was entertaining to watch.

"I am deeply concerned for Konoha's Beautiful Cherry blossom. Thy beauty shall not be forgotten even if your presence is no longer with us." Sakura rolled her eyes and Sasuke scoffed.

"Please take this and think of me." He pushed the flowers into her hands. He stepped away from her and looked at her fondly.

"Lee-san." Sakura adjusted the bouquet in her hands and smiled at him. The male shinobi's cheeks immediately reddened.

"Arigatou."

Sakura was turning away from him when suddenly, Rock Lee moved very fast and in a blink of an eye had her hands in his. Sasuke caught the movement but Sakura was too surprised to react. The flowers fell with a light thump. The taijutsu master surprised them further when he kissed both her hands.

Sakura gasped and Sasuke clicked his tongue. Before he could stop himself he calmly stated.

"You know damn well she can't take the flowers with her."

Sakura turned to him with a look of warning. Lee stood up straight and looked towards him. Slowly he positioned himself into a stance Sasuke had never seen before. He glared at the Uchiha.

"You! Vile tempter of the angel of my dreams. I will teach you a lesson you will never forget!" he loudly claimed

Sasuke raised an eyebrow and slowly turned to Rock Lee. This should be fun. He was interested to know more about this technique. He activated his Sharingan. His hand went to his katana. He adjusted his grip as he prepared to attack. Before he was able to draw his sword, a hand stopped him.

"He's drunk Sasuke." Sakura interfered.

The nin hiccupped on cue and started to walk in an unusual gait towards him. Sasuke stood there as bushy brows' steps came closer. Before the drunken master could attack, Sakura blocked his way and placed her hands on his forehead. In a second, he lost consciousness.

Sasuke blinked and watched as she caught Lee's body in her arms.

"Oi Lee!" Tenten's frantic voice could be heard as she made her way towards them. She looked tired. When she finally reached them she bent down and placed her hands on her knees. She was catching her breath.

"Hi Tenten." Sakura greeted.

Sasuke nodded to her in acknowledgement

"Hey Sakura. Sasuke." she greeted them in return. "Thank you for finally stopping him."

"No problem." Sakura smiled.

"Can you give him to me?" The brunette grinned wide.

Sakura handed the unconscious shinobi to his teammate. Before she could stop her however, Tenten fisted her hands in Lee's shirt and started shaking him hard. Her glare was almost comical.

"Oiiiii ! Lee! You Idiot! You made me chase you around the whole night!" she continued to shake him.

"Tenten, that's not really a…"

Before Sakura could finish her sentence Lee sat up and vomited on his female comrade. Tenten remained still. Her face was drained of color.

"Graaaaaaah! When you wake up you're in for a beating!" she yelled. She stomped off dragging her teammate by the back of his shirt. Lee regained a bit of his consciousness and clumsily waved at Sakura.

Sakura just waved back and laughed. Her laugh sounded childlike and happy. Sasuke observed her for a while and shook his head. The movement did not go unnoticed.

"What?" she asked still smiling. She bent down to pick up Lee's gift.

"You know you can't take that with you." He pointed to the flowers in her hands.

"But he gave them to me." she pouted.

"Hn."

"Fine." She jogged towards an old lady who was doing her morning walk. The baa-chan accepted her flowers and wished her a good day.

"You really should be clearer with them." he said as they walked towards the Village gates.

"Hm?" she turned to him with a questioning look.

"Your admirers." He replied. Sakura laughed at this.

"Especially Rock Lee." he added. She caught the meaning in his words.

"What? He doesn't …" Sakura stopped talking when Sasuke looked at her with an expression that dared her to deny it. "I've been firm with my …admirers as you put it..."

"You don't reject the people you're friends with." he answered.

Sasuke noticed this in the few months since he returned to Konoha. Sakura usually shut down people who were interested with her. However, when it came to her friends she acted like she usually did. She was kind to all of them. Rock Lee and especially Naruto. It was like she didn't know their feelings for her.

Sakura paused.

She bowed her head and looked away.

"I did though."

she whispered. Her footsteps slowed down.

Sasuke stopped and looked at her. His face was asking her the question he didn't feel like asking.

"Naruto confessed to me."

His eyes widened.

"All I could say was sorry." She looked like she was about to cry as she recalled the event.

Sasuke observed his female teammate. She really looked sad. She was probably feeling guilty about hurting Naruto. He felt sorry for the dobe. She seemed to have really hurt him. He knew exactly how the pink-haired nin felt. He didn't feel like a good friend when he rejected her love. He opened his mouth to say something but was stopped when slim arms suddenly wrapped around his. Annoyed, he looked down to see long blonde hair.

"You didn't tell me you were leaving today Sasuke-kun."

"Hey Ino-pig."

"Oh, Hi Sakura. Didn't see you there." the blonde shinobi faked a smile at her best friend slash rival. She was clearly lying. Sasuke sighed.

"Unfortunately I saw your big butt the second you latched your arm onto my teammate." Sakura's eye twitched. Ino glared back.

Deciding that he didn't really want to waste time listening to women banter each other, he shrugged Ino's hold off and proceeded to make his way to the gates.

Sakura noticed the look of hurt that passed over her friend's eyes. She looked at her then turned to look at Uchiha Sasuke. The dark-haired nin didn't even so much as say a hello to her friend. He was being a complete jerk. Who the hell did he think he was? Her lips moved on their own accord.

"Oi. That is not how you treat a girl." Sasuke's footsteps faltered a bit but continued to put distance between them. Sakura looked at her blonde friend and saw the look of appreciation she sent her way. Sakura smiled at her.

"Ino, I want to talk with you when I get back from our mission." She took the steps to hug her friend. "I'm sorry but we have to get going." Without another word she turned towards Sasuke and caught up with him.

When she reached his side she nudged him with an elbow. He looked at her with an annoyed expression. She crossed her arms and lifted her chin up.

"You were being an ass."

He didn't answer her and continued walking.

"It's not nice to play with a girl's heart." she added

He ignored her.

"Sasuke, are you listening?" She huffed

The change in his name picked at his patience. What happened to Sasuke-kun? He halted and turned to look at her. She was looking at the ground and didn't even notice his abrupt stop. He caught her wrist when she was about to walk a few steps too far. Sakura turned to him with a look of surprise.

"It's none of your business." He glared at her.

She glared at him back. "So it's okay for you to advise me on my affairs with my admirers but I'm not allowed to lecture you when you're hurting my friend?"

"I don't care." he let go of her wrist and started on the same path again.

"But I do! You said that I didn't reject my friends. It's because I do not want to see them hurt. And that applies to Yamanaka Ino." She called out.

Sasuke decided to ignore her again.

"Sasuke!" she yelled.

He blocked out her voice. Sakura confused him. Was Naruto lying to him when he said that their female teammate was in love with him? Coz if he wasn't and she did indeed love him it sure didn't seem like it. She was acting like his relationship with Ino didn't affect her at all. Hell she was even taking her friend's side. It annoyed him. Women were so damn confusing. One moment they're directing insults at each other and the next they're hugging. She didn't have anything to do with how he was treating Ino. He never gave the flower expert any indication that he wanted a relationship with her. If she wanted more, then maybe it was about time to stop their arrangement all together.

He blinked as he suddenly found Sakura in front of him. She was blocking his path.

"Sasuke, Onegai. I don't want you to be this heartless." She looked worried.

He tried to sidestep her but she blocked his path again. A look of determination on her face.

"Please." She whispered.

Out of pure instinct he couldn't explain he flashed past the medic and found himself behind her. Her back stiffened. A gust of wind passed over both of them. Uchiha Sasuke closed his eyes. He fought the urge to nuzzle her when her shoulder length hair tickled his nose. He inhaled deeply. Sakura smelled… sweet. He opened his eyes and his senses took in their surroundings. That's when he realized it. He remembered this place. It held too many memories for both shinobi. They stood near the same park bench he left her on the night he left the village. He clenched his fist. How cliché. Before he could do anything else, Sakura disappeared in a blink of an eye. Sasuke shielded his eyes at the dust she left in her wake. When he opened them, she was standing ten feet away from him.

A hand was placed on her nape.

Her stance looked defensive.

Her eyes held a hint of mistrust in them.

.

.

.

Haruno Sakura looked terrified of him.

Something tugged at his heart. And he suddenly felt angry. He glared at her then and started walking towards her. As if noticing her state for the first time, Sakura looked at him confused and stood straight. She fisted her hands as his steps walked past her. She bit her lip as the distance between them increased. When she turned to him, his pace became fast and suddenly he was running past the gates.

Then, he was gone.

It took a few minutes for her to catch up to him.


"Ah Haruno Sakura, It's good to see you." The Mizukage was waiting for them at the gates. She had a calm smile on. Her eyes glimmered when she saw who was accompanying her visitor.

Sakura bowed as she greeted the kage. Sasuke bowed as well.

"I see Uchiha Sasuke has decided to escort you. It's definitely good to see you." Her gaze fell on the dark-haired nin beside the Godaime's apprentice. Sakura recognized the look. Admiration. And something else.

Lust.

"He is not an escort. I have no need for protection." Sakura was quick to correct the statement.

The red-head hummed. She placed a pipe to her mouth. She sucked the tobacco in and let it out from rounded ruby red lips. She licked them after. The seductive action caught Sasuke's attention. She was looking at him in a suggestive way. Uchiha Sasuke knew it when a woman was expressing her interest in him. He had too many experiences with the opposite gender to not be wrong about this. A lot of the villagers in Konoha have made more subtle advances on him. Some women were straight to the point whenever he was at a bar. However, it didn't mean that he took them to bed immediately. That is why Ino was useful to him. She accommodated his needs without asking for more. He didn't like it when they seemed to want more from him. The Mizukage would probably be different. It would purely be physical and… temporary. Another way to erase unwanted memories. He briefly contemplated taking her offer. Mei Terumi was a voluptuous woman. Her presence held an air of confidence and experience. She would surely teach him some tricks in bed. He shook his head. He was on a mission. This was inappropriate. Sakura would not like it. As if knowing he was thinking about her, Sakura's eyes suddenly met his. She noticed the exchange between him and the Mizukage. Her eyes held a look of bewilderment in them.

Sasuke immediately felt guilty. This morning he ignored her because she was being pushy about his relationship with Ino. With no doubt, she would berate him later if he decided to have sex with the Fifth Mizukage. Why the hell did she have to be involved in his affairs in bed? She had nothing to do with what he wanted to do with his body. It was perfectly natural for him to have… urges. It wasn't like he was an animal who fucked anyone in his path.

But he wants it. Fucking. He is absolutely addicted to the way he fades into nothing when he thrusts inside a woman.

He looked at the ground. Sakura was such a nuisance. She made him feel like he was a bad person. Her innocence sometimes left him exasperated. She saw the world as a fairytale. She tried with all her might not to hurt people. The green-eyed medic didn't want even her rivals to be hurt. She was okay with having the world be happy and content despite being the person who got hurt in the end. She even said that she didn't regret that night.

He did though.

After that night, he felt like she was suffocating him with her presence even if she wasn't physically there. She was a constant existence on his mind.

He didn't want her there.

"I have prepared a room for you. However I did not expect to see this handsome man with you. Maybe I should make a few arrangements?" The Mizukage still looked at Sasuke as if he was being auctioned off. Sakura suddenly felt possessive.

"Not necessary Mizukage-sama. Sasuke will be staying with me." Her statement surprised him. He turned his head to look at her. Her hands were clasped behind her back. Her fingers tightened. She was surprised with herself as well.

"Oh, so it's like that huh?" Mei chuckled.

"It's…"

"Worth the try." The kage put her hand to her hips."If you decide to break it off please do tell me." Her eyes shifted to Sasuke again. She smirked. In a split second, she disappeared.

Sakura was not given the chance to deny her claim. The older nin clearly thought that she was in a relationship with Sasuke. But that didn't mean that she still wasn't interested.

"I'll show you to your room Sakura-san." A chuunin stepped in and led her up a tall building. It looked new. Sakura turned to follow him in. The walk was silent and long. Sakura felt her heart thump against her chest. She was going to share a room with Uchiha Sasuke. The thought had her cheeks turn red. What the hell was she thinking when she suddenly blurted out that he was going to stay with her. She looked at him. He wasn't saying anything. He didn't say anything a while ago. He was probably going to say something harsh to her once they reached their room.

"Here it is."

Sakura looked up as the shinobi opened the door. It didn't look like a traditional Japanese room. It was large. She could see a queen sized bed. A table was placed to its right. It held pens and papers that would serve as a means for her to write down notes. A comfortable looking lounging chair was in the far left corner with a lamp beside it. A door which would probably lead to the bathroom was found on the same side. Her eyes scanned the rest of the room. Closet, dresser and a small coffee table with cute chairs. No sofa. She was screwed.

"If you need anything please feel free to ask us." The escort smiled and held the door open for her. She stepped in. Sasuke followed.

"Arigatou." Sakura smiled back at the shinobi. Sasuke noticed the blush that crept up the other guy's neck.

The door shut with a sense of finality. Sakura breathed in.

"I apologize for saying what I did a while ago." She started.

"It wasn't my intention to have you alone with me. I just didn't think that it would be right for our host to be seducing you. We both know where she's going to put you if you decided to look for another room. We are here for a mission, not to start affairs. If you oppose of my decision then you are welcome to make other arrangements." She breezed through the sentences and bit her lip as she waited for his reply.

"It's fine." He muttered.

"Eh?" she looked confused

"I said it's fine." He repeated. Sakura was surprised. She expected him to leave her alone in the room. Mei was a very attractive woman. Any man who was a recipient of the look she sent Sasuke would most definitely end up between her legs. Maybe he was going to meet the Mizukage somewhere? She understood what their exchange meant. The Mizukage had put the ball in Sasuke's court. If he wanted to comply with her wishes then all he had to do was go to her door. If he didn't though, she was determined to have him. It couldn't have been more obvious.

"I'm not going to sleep with her."

"Oh."

"Being placed in a different room might send the wrong message." He added.

"I see." She inhaled deeply. "That was intense. What happened a while ago. She made it pretty clear what she wanted from you."

"Sakura, I wouldn't jeopardize the mission by fooling around."

"Oh, that's good." the look of relief on her face made Sasuke smirk. He removed his mask and looked at the bed.

"Hn."

"I guess we can share? Wait, If you're uncomfortable with it … we can, I mean I can always sleep on the floor." She was tripping over her words.

"No."

"Okay then. So we're sharing? Don't worry, I won't attack you in your sleep." She teased.

He smirked again. Looking at her smiling face, he ran a hand through his black locks. She looked happy.

"Well, I don't know about you but I'm really tired. If you don't mind, I guess I'll prepare myself for bed." She smiled.

Sasuke shrugged and took off his backpack.

Both nin proceeded to put their things away and took turns in using the shower. With their backs to each other and as much distance they could put between one another they slept.


Sakura slammed her fist on the table. A small crack formed. She hadn't used her chakra. Two weeks have already passed since she arrived at Kirigakure and she was nowhere near her goal. Searching for the Seikatsu no Hana proved to be harder than she initially thought. During the first days of her arrival she immersed herself in literature about the legendary flower. She wasn't surprised about the limited number of books that mentioned it. What surprised her was the lack of information about its whereabouts. All of her readings consisted of rumors about its healing abilities. One book which dates back to fifty years before had a drawing of it but she wasn't so sure if it was true. She was beginning to doubt its very existence. However, a small hope kept her going.

Her master had mentioned encountering it during her youth.

That fact alone refused to let her give up.

So, for the past week she had hiked her way around the mountain searching for the flower. Sasuke was a good partner during the mission. She understood why Lady Tsunade assigned it to him. He was an expert in poisons, specifically snake poisons. She was grateful that he had accompanied her during her journey. More than once she was bitten by hebi that looked harmless. She was saved by his antidotes. She in turn had saved him in numerous occasions. Mosquitos, plants and even some of the water were toxic. Sasuke was a big help and he never complained. She could see how much he questioned the existence of their target. Even the Mizukage, who was still sending him looks whenever they had a meal together, had no idea about it. She appreciated the fact that he didn't voice his inner thoughts. If he did, she might agree with him.

Going home to a dying Master without something to prevent the process was the last thing she wanted to do. She sighed. She had to admit though, even if this mission was becoming more and more frustrating, she realized that her relationship with Sasuke was getting better. He was being cooperative and they acted like they had before the night she got drunk. She felt peaceful whenever they were sitting across each other with her hands on his head. He seemed at peace as well. And he often gave her clear signs that he was concerned about her health even without words being said. It was in his actions. Reminding her with his presence when it was time for dinner. Giving her coffee when she was doing an all-nighter. He even gave her more space in their bed. Sasuke was really a nice person. She was at least happy about that.

She ran a hand through her bangs and looked outside the window. It was a bright day. She breathed deeply as she felt his chakra. Her gaze fell on him standing by the door with his hands in his pockets.

"About time we went to the mountain again huh?" she stated.

"Aa."

He took his hands out and straightened his back. He adjusted his sword. The change in his position told her that they had to get going. She got up and opened the drawer on the table. She took out her gloves.

"Let's get going then."

…..

The mountain looked more ominous than it already was. Sakura felt a sense of dread come over her. They had to remain alert. She looked at her partner and found that he took notice of the dangerous air around them as well. His hand went to his katana. Sakura put her gloves on and looked around her. Something wasn't right. She couldn't hear the sounds of the animals around them. Their steps slowed as they made their way through the forest like shadows of the sun, silent and cautious. Sakura paused when she felt a raindrop on her. It pierced her skin. She winced as she felt the pain. She looked at the sky and her eyes widened. A dark cloud was over them.

"Sasuke." She started. He was already staring at her with a look of understanding. They had to look for cover. She didn't know what this rain will bring but she had a feeling that it was a big threat. Their pace quickened as they heard the loud clap of thunder and suddenly they were running as fast as they could. Raindrops started to fall on them. Her worries were confirmed as she saw the plants around then wither as water fell on them. Her skin burned as the rain touched it. She was scared. The only thing that kept her going was the adrenaline that flooded her system. Her arms, legs, her whole body suddenly hurt. She bit her lip to stop herself from screaming. The rain felt like acid on her skin. She had never felt anything more painful than this. She could no longer see clearly. She felt like falling.

Sasuke's cloak suddenly came around her as he sheltered her from the pain. His hands wrapped around her wrist. He pulled her along with him. Sakura followed the direction he was going and tried to keep up with his pace. In a matter of minutes they were at a cave and they gasped as they tried to catch their breaths. She knelt down and placed her hands on the ground. She coughed, her chest hurt from the action as she tried to keep her breathing regular. She looked up to see Sasuke sitting with his back propped up against the wall and his hand placed over a bent leg as he tried to fight the cough. She could tell that he was hurting as well. He had more burns on his face.

Acid rain. Real acid rain. It hurt like shit.

She pushed herself up and tried to crawl towards him. She needed to heal him. He sustained more damage than she had. As her hands glowed with her green chakra she felt something tug at her consciousness. No. she had to heal him. Now was not the time to be weak. She tried to stay awake but her vision was getting cloudy. Suddenly the drive that kept her going the past couple of weeks left her and she was drained of her energy. In a moment, she lost access to the world. The last thing she saw was Sasuke's face as he rushed towards her.

.

.

.

When she woke up the forest was still surrounded by rain. Her head turned towards Sasuke. He was lying unconscious a few feet from her. His breathing was labored and he had his right hand to his chest. She immediately scanned over his body and assessed his condition. Without a second thought she got up and walked a little bit dazedly towards him. She pulled him up to a sitting position and leaned his body against the wall. She placed her hands on his chest and started the healing. Within a few seconds she felt the relief in his body. He was going to be okay. She passed her hand over the rest of his body to heal the burns. His eyes slightly opened as he observed her.

She settled herself next to him and tried to stay awake. However she found herself loosing grip of her consciousness once again. Her head landed on his shoulder as she settled herself into a dreamless sleep.

His head landed on hers as he too gave in to his body's needs. Both of them had not been sleeping well since they arrived at the village of the Mist.

.

.

.

When Sakura awakened, she was lying on her side with her cloak around her. She pushed herself up. She stretched her hands out and yawned. Her ears picked up on the sound of birds chirping outside. They seemed to have come out of their hiding after the rainfall had stopped. She could see Sasuke's back turned to her as he stared outside the cave. He casted a summoning jutsu and two small snakes appeared in front of him.

"Try to see the damage around us." He instructed.

"Hai, Sasuke-sama." The two hebi hissed and slithered out.

He turned to look at her and a look of relief passed over his eyes.

"How long was I out?" she questioned.

"A day." he answered. She got up and bent her legs to chase the stiffness away. He made a move to catch her when she almost lost her balance. But she regained her composure and stood straight. She took in her surroundings. The cave was big. Her mind felt curious as she saw that it went deeper.

"Feel like exploring?" she smiled at him. He smirked.

"Aa." Slowly they made their way deeper into the cave.

Sakura moved her hair out of her face. A blush crept up her cheeks. A day. She had been out cold a day. And he had watched over her. She hoped she didn't look too ugly as of the moment. She also hoped that she didn't smell bad. She didn't want him to be disgusted with… she interrupted her thoughts. Didn't she already tell herself that she should no longer care about Uchiha Sasuke's opinion of her? She was trying to move on. Her eyes stared at the blackness ahead of them. Sasuke conjured a Katon to light their way. She stared at his face and groaned.

Kami-sama was unfair.

They had run through a poisonous forest and have stumbled through twigs and mud as they tried to find shelter. A day had passed since that happened so … she didn't expect him to look so handsome. He was still very attractive and she fought the urge to run her hands through his hair to see if it was as stiff as hers probably was. Again, she scolded herself for thinking such things.

His arm stopped her as she was about to put her foot forward.

"There's something there."

He had his Sharingan on. He formed his hands into the seal she was so familiar with and a Katon was sent ahead of them.

Sakura's eyes widened at what she found in front of her. Butterflies, bees, dragonflies. Lots of insects with wings flying in the darkness. What surprised her even further was the fact that they looked wet. They were out on the rain before. So why?

Why did they look unharmed?

Her gaze fell on a particular butterfly landing itself on a white flower. Its tiny legs played at the pollen on it. Her eyes lit up with recognition. She couldn't be wrong about it. It was a picture she saw during one of her readings. She implanted it into her mind so she would never forget. She couldn't' help but let out the sound of joy from her lips. She grinned at Sasuke. It was only one flower but they had found it.

They found the Seikatsu no Hana.


Inuzuka Kiba prided himself in his wolf-like abilities. As a member of the Rookie Nine he was deemed as a skilled shinobi who fought courageously during the war. Numerous missions were assigned to him entailing him to help detect rare items. With the help of his loyal comrade Akamaru they were always successful. His dream was to also become Hokage. However, though he occasionally announced his goal, he acknowledged that Uzumaki Naruto was way ahead of him. He was jealous of the blonde shinobi. He earned the love of the people and had already attained their support. Naruto was an idiot but he was also a great shinobi. He was worthy of becoming hokage.

Yes, Kiba was jealous because of a lot of things.

And that included the fact that Naruto was in the same team as her.

Naruto had her support.

Naruto had her friendship.

And Naruto had her love.

Even if it wasn't the type the blonde shinobi wanted.

The brown-haired nin grinned. He was on his way to see her. Haruno Sakura had sent a hawk for him. She needed him to find something for her. Whatever it was he realized that he would bust his ass to find it for her.

Kiba looked at his partner beside him. Akamaru was running extra fast today and his tail was wagging.

"Excited to see her huh Akamaru?" The dog barked in return. Kiba laughed and looked ahead of him. He was excited to see her too.

Sakura had always been pretty. He knew that. But he didn't really notice her that much at first. When she had cheered for Naruto during the chuunin exams he found her cute. She was a feisty kunoichi. When she had cried in front of them begging her blonde teammate to bring Sasuke back, he felt sorry for Naruto because a big burden was placed on his shoulders. He thought that she was oblivious to the kyuubi-vessel's feelings for her. Kiba didn't see her much when Naruto left to train with his master. He occasionally glanced at her during his walks in the village. He would wave at her and she would wave back.

When she asked him to accompany her on a mission to talk to Naruto about Sasuke's betrayal, he secretly thought that she was insane. He didn't like it when she falsely claimed that she was in love with the sage when she so obviously loved the avenger. Still, he couldn't leave her. She knocked his senses off when she betrayed them with her sleeping potion. It was unusual for him to fall for a girl whom he thought was crazy but she had caught his attention at the time.

During the Fourth Ninja War, Inuzuka Kiba greatly admired Haruno Sakura. He was awed by her skills. He was enchanted by her beauty. His eyes repeatedly scanned over her tent whenever she was healing shinobi from other villages. He often found himself looking at her in the battlefield. There was nothing more attractive than seeing her punch her way through her enemies. After the war, he had sustained a great number of injuries and was on the verge of losing his life. She saved him. Then he was placed directly under her care. He loved the feel of her hands over him. Kiba found Sakura's chakra to be soothing and heavenly. Her presence was a great comfort to him and she made sure that he got the best medical attention. She oversaw his rehabilitation and soon he was looking forward to her visits. She looked really beautiful in her white coat and he was extra happy to see her playing with Akamaru. The dog had taken a liking to her as well. After a month she had caught his heart.

But it was obvious that someone else had caught her heart.

"You're amazing." His cheeks warmed as he realized what he just said. Sakura looked up from petting Akamaru when she heard his words. The dog was on its back and had encouraged her to rub its belly. Haruno was bending down and rubbing it. Her laugh was so angel-like that Kiba couldn't help but fall for her harder. Her eyes told him that she was surprised with his compliment. He couldn't find the words to explain what he meant.

"Thank you." She smiled at him and brushed her bangs out of her eyes. She was really really pretty.

She was wearing a tight short blue skirt and was wearing a red top. She looked extra girly today. Kiba was on his way to the market when Akamaru suddenly decided to turn the opposite direction. As he followed his partner he saw her walking with a basket in her hands.

"Hi Kiba." She greeted and smiled at him.

"Hey."

Akamaru was jumping up and down when he saw her and she just laughed as she patted his head.

"I'm glad to see you too."

Kiba cleared his throat as he remembered the moment. Her smile was really … cute. He looked down to see the dog wagging its tail and licking Sakura's hand.

"So, where are you going?" he asked

"I'm on my way to Sasuke-kun's house. He has been experiencing some blurring of vision." She answered. She glanced at her watch and got up.

"Gomen Kiba, is it okay if I go ahead? I'm running a little late."

Akamaru whimpered as Sakura stopped petting him and dusted the fur out of her clothes. Kiba understood the dog's disappointment. He wanted to talk with her more as well.

"No problem." He grinned.

She grinned at him back and waved goodbye.

His eyes followed her until she was but a dot to his vision.

That bastard was damn lucky to be the recipient of her devotion.

Kiba was jealous of Uzumaki Naruto but he was more jealous of Uchiha Sasuke.

The dark-haired nin obviously had her heart.

The young ninja shook his head and smiled. He wasn't going to give up. Before he left for his mission a month ago he told himself that once he got back to the village he would confess to her. It didn't matter if she was going to reject him. He just wanted her to know. He liked her too much.

His pace increased as he rushed to Kirigakure.


Sakura looked at all the petri dishes in front of her. Streptococcus, Staphylococcus, Haemophilus and other bacteria. She smiled as she saw the big spot on all the dishes. The flower's extract worked. It was able to inhibit all bacterial growth. She cultured fifteen common pathogens and they were all destroyed by the legendary plant. The effect was quite impressive. She was sure that she would be able to fight the infection Tsunade was frequently having. All she had to do was obtain more.

"That smile tells me that you've found something good." She looked up to find Kiba lounging on the window. She smiled at him.

"Hi Kiba. I'm glad you came as soon as you could."

Akamaru immediately launched himself into her arms and she laughed as she babied him.

"Akamaru, don't abuse her affection for you." The dog immediately obeyed his master and sat down. His tongue was hanging at the side of his mouth.

"So, what do you need me to find?" He grinned at her.

"See this?" she led him to her preparations. He glanced over the table. A microscope, several books, what looked to be herbal juice and some dishes he often saw in labs.

"What am I looking at?" he questioned.

"Here." she pointed to the dishes which had a drop of the decoction she produced in them.

"It can cure any form of bacteria I have experimented on." She smiled at him. Kiba found her too cute at that moment. He found her really attractive during battle but she was hard to resist when she was excited and happy about something.

"So, I guess you want me to find more of this flower huh?" he guessed.

"Exactly." She grinned. "Kakashi sensei is too busy nowadays, training to be hokage. Plus, I know you have a nose that's more sensitive than his dogs." She complimented him. Akamaru barked.

She giggled. "Akamaru's as well." She patted the dog.

He beamed at this and turned his head to the corner of the room. Sasuke was sitting in one of the chairs and was currently reading a scroll. The dark-haired nin looked up and nodded his head in greeting. Kiba nodded in return.

Without further talk, he sniffed the flower and let Akamaru sniff it as well. He memorized its scent. Okay, that would do. He was on his way out when Sakura stopped him.

"Oh and Kiba, be careful with your surroundings. Too much poison. Sasuke will accompany you."

Said Uchiha got up. He looked at Kiba and exited the room. The brunette glanced at the room before he made his way to the window. With one last smile at Sakura he jumped off it followed by Akamaru. Then he was off to find the Seikatsu no Hana.


Sakura yawned and looked at the person in front of her.

"Well, I guess I'll be leaving now." Kiba watched her. She looked like she hadn't slept in days. Dark circles were seen under her eyes.

"I am very grateful you answered my call Kiba." She replied.

Akamaru was seated beside her as she gently patted his head. He whined when she stopped her strokes.

"I know, I know, I want to go back with you too." she cuddled the dog. "However, I have a lot more things to do. I'm going to finish up my research and head home as soon as I can." She nuzzled the Akamaru's face and looked into his eyes. Kiba suddenly felt jealous of his partner.

He waved at Uchiha Sasuke and the Sharingan wielder bowed his head in a subtle way. Kiba didn't really talk that much with Sakura's teammate. But he noticed something the past couple of days. It seemed that in the time he wasn't around, Sasuke and Sakura had formed a stronger bond with each other. They had some form of understanding that he couldn't quite comprehend. The onyx eyed shinobi paid a lot of attention to her needs. He always seemed to be looking out for her. Once, he even spotted the other guy carrying her back to their room. Were they going out? He wondered. He stopped himself from assuming it. It hurt too much. They didn't seem like a couple to him. Both Team 7 members probably got comfortable with each other. Maybe it was because they spent more time in each other's company.

"I'll walk you to the gates." She offered.

They made their way towards the north of the village. Their steps, casual and slow.

Kiba couldn't help but feel nervous. This was the first time since his arrival that he was alone with the pink-haired ninja. She was so busy with her research and he was too busy gathering the materials she needed.

He gulped. This might be his only chance! Didn't he already promise himself that he would tell her his feelings? He glanced down at the person walking by his side. He really liked her. He didn't care if her heart belonged to another. He stopped in his tracks and looked at the ground.

Sakura noticed this and stopped as well. She tilted her head to the side in question.

"Sakura. I..."

"Hm?" she smiled at him. Kami this was hard to do. His cheeks turned red. He tried to find the right words. To his astonishment, Akamaru nudged him and he suddenly found himself directly in front of her.

Sakura was surprised and she instantly blushed as she noticed their proximity. Up close, he could see the greenness of her eyes. They were an interesting shade of color. He wanted to drown in them. Without thinking further, he grabbed one of her hands and held it between them.

"I like you." He whispered.

Her eyes widened and she instantly looked away from him. She looked unhappy.

"I."

"I really like you. Please go out with me." He continued.

Sakura stared back at him. She was thinking.

"Kiba, you're a good guy but…"

"Is it because of that Uchiha?" his heart suddenly felt like it was being crushed. He didn't want her to finish that "but". She was rejecting him.

"No, It's not… Sasuke and I are just friends." She bit her lip. He let go of her hands and placed his own in his pockets.

"Why aren't you calling him Sasuke-kun anymore?" Kiba noticed this when he first arrived but he didn't have the courage to ask it. Something was definitely going on between the two shinobi.

"Because we're just teammates." She steadily replied.

His eyes lit up with understanding. He could guess what she meant by that sentence. Uchiha Sasuke had probably rejected her and she was trying to move on. He looked at her again and sighed. She looked like she was on the verge of tears. Haruno Sakura was really too nice. She didn't like it that she was hurting him. His heart swelled as he realized this. He liked her even more because of that.

"Well, can't blame a guy for trying right?" he grinned at her.

Sakura tried to smile back. But her enthusiasm earlier had gone. They continued to walk towards the gates. When they reached the end of Kirigakure she looked up and finally smiled at him. She frowned when he didn't smile back and instead just stared at her. He turned to her.

"Sakura, I'll help you get over him if you give me the chance." He looked really serious then.

She couldn't say anything in return. She opened her mouth to say something. But his hand in front of her face stopped her. Her eyes widened at the action. His other hand covered his face. She detected the blush he tried to hide. Kiba was … cute.

"Don't tell me your final reply yet." He blurted out.

"Kiba."

"I am willing to wait for you." He smiled.

Before she was able to say anything else he disappeared.


Uchiha Sasuke frequently had nightmares. After losing his family he usually dreamt about the Uchiha Massacre. He would wake up every time with tears in his eyes. After a few minutes of catching his breath he would get up and train. When he was a genin, he still saw their lifeless faces but he also had other images on his mind. He dreamt about killing his brother. It didn't take long for those dreams to take control of him and after being given the cursed seal, he left his home to become the avenger. He wanted to kill Uchiha Itachi. When he was fifteen, he did. But what followed turned his whole world upside down. His brother was merely a pawn ordered by high ranking officials to save their own skin. He remembered the betrayal he felt and the hatred that flowed through his veins. Konoha was now the enemy. So, after Itachi's death, Sasuke dreamt about different things. He dreamt of seeing his village in flames. He dreamt about killing Leaf Shinobi and putting the elders' heads on sticks. His dreams consisted of blood and cries of citizens begging for their lives. He no longer had nightmares. He had goals.

However, after he joined the Shinobi Alliance and had helped in ending the Fourth Shinobi War, his nightmares resumed. But, instead of seeing the death of his clan he saw the death of his friends. It was his biggest fear. Killing them. It was because he remembers vividly how much he desired for their deaths when they were reunited at that bridge. He was afraid of the fact that he almost turned against them. His nightmares reminded him of how he almost destroyed their future. His future. He dreamt about running a chidori through their hearts. He imagined how his sword would feel as it sliced their flesh. He saw them burn when he used Amaterasu on them. He heard their screams as he took their lives.

"Teme! Don't do this!"

"I understand your pain Sasuke, this won't bring you peace."

.

.

.

"Onegai, I don't want you to be this heartless."

His vision clears and he sees her back to him. He could feel the anger boiling inside. He recognizes the increased intent to kill. His soul however was telling him to stop. She was quivering. He steps closer and his head is suddenly filled with the ear-piercing sound of a thousand birds. His arm pulls back then drives forward as his attack aims for her neck and he could see as if in slow motion the painstakingly sluggish turning of her head. His heart stopped as he saw the fear in her eyes….His mind screamed at the slow movement of her lips as she gasped his name when his chidori pierces her chest…..

"Sasuke-kun."

.

.

.

"Sasuke!"

Sasuke woke up with a start. He gasped as he took in his surroundings. Images of blood merge into one person. Someone was on top of him. That person was shaking him awake. His hands instantly went to her shoulders. In a second, he switched their positions and had her arms pinned over her head.

"Sasuke."

He instantly knows her voice. He blinks his eyes to clear the blur. He could feel her form. A woman. A body he had touched before. He closes his eyes and opens them again. He recognizes Sakura's face. Her eyes looked frightened and alarmed. It takes a second for him to notice their position. Long pink hair was splayed on the pillow behind her. Her over-sized shirt hung off one pale shoulder. The shorts she was wearing revealed a lot of skin. Her arms were at both sides of her head, palms out. His hands held her down. The action made her chest stick out and he could see that she wasn't wearing a bra. His ears suddenly felt hot and he could still hear a buzzing sound. He closed his eyes and tried to drown out the sound of birds screeching.

He looked at her again.

Too trusting.

She looked too trusting.

She wasn't afraid anymore. She was just staring at him with understanding in her eyes. Her expression served to comfort him. His grip on her wrists tightened and he suddenly found himself lowering into her. He paused as he was mere centimeters away from what he wanted to taste. Her eyes held wonder and confusion. His lips ghosted over hers. He noted the widening of her eyes before he finally closed the distance. He groaned. She felt soft and delicious. He tried to deepen the kiss but she refused him. He pushed himself up and stared at her. Her face was a deep shade of red. One of his hands went to her chin and pulled it down.

"Open your mouth."

"What? No..." She tries to push him away with her free hand but he instantly catches it and pins it to the bed again.

Her shock at his aggressiveness gave him the chance he wanted and he pushes his tongue past her teeth. It tangles in hers and ever so slowly she starts to respond. Sasuke lets go of one of her wrists to wrap his arm around her waist and pull her to him. Her hand immediately weaves itself on his hair.

Sasuke continued to attack her mouth. Sakura felt wonderful. He wanted to feel her. Just feel her. He tried to erase the image of her dead eyes. He forced himself to forget the touch of her lifeless body. Her body was alive with passion now. He didn't want to lose her. She was important to him. His other hand goes to her cheek as he angled her mouth to deepen the kiss. Her released hand goes to his chest and he groans at the contact.

He wants her now.

Wants to bury himself in her.

Wants to hear her moans as he plunges into her.

Wants to see the hot expression of her face as she reaches her climax.

Lying in a bed with her for the past couple of weeks was hard. He would sometimes contemplate about turning to her. But he knew what it was going to do to their friendship. And he knew what he was going to say after. Knew the tears she would shed when he breaks her heart. He didn't care now. His hand goes to the back of her neck to tilt it to his wandering mouth when her body stiffens.

Sasuke suddenly stops. And he slowly lifts his head to look at her. He remembers the emotion on her face before they left Konoha. She didn't trust him when it came to her vital point. He didn't blame her though, any contact he had with Sakura's nape before was made to do harm.

He pulls away and turns his back to her. He tries to even his breathing. He glances at her again. She was flushed all over and was breathing intensely. He remembers her face when she came back from walking Inuzuka to the gates. She looked red that time too. He wondered what had happened that day. She seemed withdrawn. Tonight, she looked too vulnerable. He tried to fight the images of her in his bed back at Konoha. He tries to ignore the urge to take her as he did that night.

His hands were itching to run all over her.

Before he could do anything else he gets up and puts a shirt on.

"Sasuke."

"Forget about it." He muttered.

"Are you okay?" she asks him. He turned to look at her again. The concern in her eyes bothered him. Wasn't she supposed to be mad at him for saying hard words again?

"Aa. Just a dream." His eyes scanned over her form. She pushed herself up as she studied him. His heart gentled. Sakura was a good friend. He didn't want to hurt her as he did the last time.

"Get some sleep." he added. She looks at him for a minute and lets out a sigh.

She smiles at him and nods her head.

Sasuke turns and leaves the room. As he walks around the cool village he tried to deny the desire to turn back.

He wanted to go back and fuck Haruno Sakura.

She looked willing.

He closed his eyes and remembered how she felt the last time. Maybe he could...

No.

He continues walking before he changes his mind. He wanted to be with her tonight. Wanted it so much. Too much.

However, he didn't want to see the hurt that would flash in her eyes the moment he would leave her in the morning.

.

.

.

He was sure he would.


"It occurred to me in the tranquility of last night that gathering wilted petals won't make them alright."

– Just be Friends

tbc

AN: So sorry it took so long for me to update! This chapter is longer than usual :D Introducing Kiba, the other guy. Haha. I like the way Kiba contrasts Sasuke's character. I love a guy with a dog. (I think Sasuke's family has ninja cats?) I like fics with him as the object of Sasuke's jealousy. He's loud and open with his feelings like Naruto. Truthfully, I thought of Naruto as well. But, I think I'm writing from how I see it in the manga. I'm sorry if there are any discrepancies with the facts placed here. I try to do as much research as I can. :)

Thanks to everyone who took the time to review. I'm really new at this and I feel extremely happy that I got a lot of positive responses. I've been taking note of the negative ones as well and have taken them into account. Nevertheless, I am still very grateful for them. I don't usually write reviews when I'm reading fics except when I love the story.

I would like to give everyone a heads up. I'm sorry if anyone is offended that I made Sasuke into a very sexual person. I would like to think that he would be great in bed. It's rare nowadays to find men who are still virgins. (blush blush) I know I'm going down the road of physical attraction between these two characters but I hope I have emphasized their deep budding friendship as well :D

Anyway, you may have noticed Sasuke's inner struggle with his feelings towards Sakura. I love reading a story when a man has an internal debate with himself. Hope you like this chapter! Am going to work on the next one. :D

Special thanks to Sacchan Orange Juice for correcting what I first wrote: "Hana no Seikatsu". Changed it to "Seikatsu no Hana" greatly appreciated. :D And to assyLLaUchiha who has been sending me words of encouragement through messages and reviews :D

Thanks for reading!

-Remastered-

Random Musings: Okay, there was a bit of regret for making Kiba the other guy. Because I am not really that well oriented to his true character. Though I have had a few opinions about what he really is like. Further notes: I didn't like repeating myself. So I edited some parts. Especially some dialogue and placed a little snippet about how Sasuke is still wallowing in his darkness.

I adore you dear reader.