A/N: Sorry this took so long. No excuses just sorry! Anyway, more awkward moments to come, enjoy!
Chapter 7
Sakura stepped out of the shower only to practically collide with the two Sand siblings who were standing now right out side of the bathroom door.
"Sakura, where did you learn that song?" Temari didn't move an inch as she waited for an answer.
"What so- oh, you were listening to me sing in the shower?" When neither sibling answered she continued "It's an old song my grandmother use to sing to me when I was little. She was actually from here you know? She grew up here in Sand and moved to Leaf when she met my grandfather. They were civilians so it wasn't a big deal."
"That would explain it." Temari said with a smile returning to her face.
"Uh, explain what?" Sakura was starting to feel more and more uncomfortable by the second under the scrutinizing gaze of the two.
Temari noticed the change in demeanor of the pink haired woman and took a step back, allowing Sakura to move out of the bathroom. "Well you see, that song you were singing in there was actually written here in Sand. It was... it was my mothers favorite song."
Temari couldn't help the single tear that slid down her face.
"Oh! I'm so sorry. I didn't realize." Sakura could see the soft smile Temari was giving her, but at that moment Gaara turned around and walked out without saying a word.
"Sakura don't worry about him. It's a sore subject for all of us, but especially Gaara. Come on, I will walk you to work and tell you about our mom."
Sakura's mind was not on the task at hand and her subordinates noticed, though if anyone knew the reason for her distraction no one said anything. She was ready to be done with the day, but not so eager to face Gaara. "I understand why he got upset, but I don't understand why he just stormed out without a word."
She could feel her unease growing as she dismissed the medics. Feeling as if he had messed up something before it even really started she dejectedly reached for her coat.
A forced cough was heard in the doorway and made her turn in attention. There was the man himself standing there looking highly uncomfortable while holding a bundle of flowers.
"Sakura, earlier today I let my emotions get the better of me and I am sorry. You deserved an explanation and I apologize for leaving without walking you to work. I brought you these to convey my deepest regret at my actions."
Sakura looked at the bundle of white flowers. The fact that white tulips were in essence an apology flower, nor the fact that being in the desert she was sure they were not cheap.
"Oh Gaara, it's nothing. I understand and I'm sorry for bringing up memories that you didn't want to think about."
Gaara shifted his weight from one leg to the other. "You're right. I didn't want to think about them, but I'm glad. Maybe someday you could sing me her song whilst not otherwise occupied". A slow blush creeping up his cheeks.
If he had been anyone else she might have thought that the blush was indicative of the fact that he had just alluded to her showering, but since she knew that wasn't his intent she realized that the cause of his embarrassment must be for asking for a favor. The thought made her smile. "How about I try and kill two birds with one stone? Since you said that you still have trouble falling asleep I could try to sing you to sleep?"
Gaara was taken back by her suggestion. "Why would she care if I get some sleep or not?" He steeled his face so that it showed no emotion. "Perhaps."
Sakura once again found herself smiling at him. "He might be pretty good at masking his face, but he can't hide his eyes." She knew that the emotion she saw in his seafoam gaze was gratitude.
"I was also wondering if you would like to accompany me to diner this evening?" Gaara had made reservations at the only 5 star restaurant in Suna in the hopes that they could enjoy a nice meal without the knowing looks of his brother and sister.
Sakura didn't hesitate for a second before linking her arm in his. "Oh that sounds nice. I would love too." She flashed him a warm smile, noticing how she was smiling more than not in his presence lately.
When they made it back to their rooms Gaara turned to Sakura before she opened her door. "Your dress is in your room and there should be several shoes to choose from."
"Huh? Why do I need a dress?" Sakura was more than a little confused. When she packed for her trip she hadn't thought she would need to bring fancy clothes with her.
"I assumed that you wouldn't have brought one so I had one bought for you, along with several shoes to choose from. The place where we will be dining this evening has a dress code."
Sakura could barely contain her excitement. "He bought me a dress. And shoes! I could definitely get use to this!"
Gaara was enjoying the happiness that was plain on her face. He realized that he loved her smile. "I could get use to this."
Standing on the tips of her toes she kissed him on the cheek before entering the room and closing the door.
Behind him Gaara could hear soft chuckling. "Kankuro, I don't think I have fully paid you back for your little trick. Don't worry, I will". Turning across the hall to his own bedroom door he noticed the look on his brothers face before retreating to his bedroom.
Kankuro stopped mid laugh and his look turned to one of pure horror. Gaara's "pranks" were never something to be happy about.
Kankuro turned to see his sister standing beside him. The next second she was doubled over in laughter. Grumbling he said "Shut up Temari." and left her clutching her stomach trying to ride out the waves of her humor.
