Fighting for You-

Disclaimer: We do not own Naruto!

Chapter Ten-

Surprise

.

It was half an hour before seven o'clock that Sasuke walked out of his house, his duffle bag of gear hanging on his shoulder while he carried his suitcase in his hand. He popped open the trunk of his car and placed his bags inside before getting behind the wheel and starting his car.

Last night, he'd intended to get home early. He had to pack and get ready—and he needed to sleep. But being with Sakura, having her cuddled up close to him on her couch—taking in her sweet scent and talking with her about any and everything… he enjoyed it too much and he'd wound up staying until after nightfall.

He wasn't tired though, he was wide awake and full of excitement as he sped through traffic on his way to pick her up. He'd been nervous about asking her to come with him. Just having her come to his fight was enough for him, but to have her coming with him early—to know she'd be by his side the entire time… he was beside himself with happiness.

Slowly, but surely that girl was changing him. She was too sweet and damn adorable. He wanted to be with her too much and even when they weren't together, he wanted to talk to her. He was on his phone more than he'd ever been before, so much in fact that just the day before while he was at the gym, his manager dared to bring it up.

"Sasuke," He'd said. "I can't help but notice you're doing less training and actually socializing for once."

Sasuke had glared at him, having been in the middle of texting Sakura. "First of all, I train plenty. And I'm not socializing. I'm sending an important text that can't wait."

"But uh… you've been sending that text for fifteen minutes."

"Shut the hell up."

Sasuke rolled his eyes at the memory. His whole life was fighting and training to do so. If he wanted to take a damn minute--or fifteen--to send a fucking text, he would do so and he would not hear shit about it.

He pulled on Ino's street, his mind free of everything but the fact that he was about to see Sakura. He pulled out his phone as he parked on the street just in front of Ino's home and sent her a text.

'I'm here.'

Putting his phone in the holder he had for it in his car, his eyes moved to the door, waiting for her to come out. It wasn't an entire minute before she came bouncing out, carrying a bag that looked heavier than her--at least with her carrying it.

Sasuke rolled his eyes as he got out of the car and jogged over to her, taking the bag from her quickly. It was light to him, but had enough weight to it that he couldn't help wondering what she had inside of it. He took a moment to look over her, loving it when she was dressed casually as she was now. She wore a long red shirt that looked smooth and soft, and a pair of black leggings. Her hair was pulled on top of her head. She really loved her messy buns, and so did he… because when she looked like this, she was stunning.

Perfect.

"Let's get going." He told her before giving her an amused smirk. "I'm assuming you didn't forget anything."

A light rose color dusted her cheeks and Sasuke chuckled, wrapping his free arm around her waist and leading her towards his car. She was too easy to tease and he may have enjoyed it more than he did anything else—even fighting.

After putting her bag in the trunk with both of his, he got back in his car. Sakura was buckling her seat belt. He did the same before offering her his hand and it was only after she took it in her's that he got on the road.

"I'm glad you dressed comfortably. We'll be on the road for a good few hours at least."

Thankfully, Sakura didn't seem to mind the ride. She seemed as happy as him, talking lively along the way. She was all smiles and giggles, holding tight to his hand all the while. They stopped for lunch when they made it into the city the fight would be held in and after they took their time, Sasuke eating less than he normally would, then they went and checked into the hotel.

There was only one bed, which Sasuke was well aware of. It was a king size bed though, more than big enough for the both of them, but that didn't stop Sakura from getting flustered just at the sight of it. The more she blushed and got embarrassed, the more Sasuke laughed. He would never do anything to her that she didn't want, but he loved the fact that she had more than a few fleeting thoughts.

His interview wasn't until early evening. But, after they were settled, showered, and dressed more decently, they had to meet his team. Kakashi asked them to come for dinner. It had only been a couple hours since they'd had lunch, but they agreed. By the time they finished dinner it would be time for the interview anyway.

Sakura squeezed his hand and smiled at him. "Nervous, Sasuke-kun?"

They were sitting at the table with all of his team members. Sakura was glad to meet them all officially and she still seemed pleased to be by his side. For this, Sasuke was glad. He wasn't nervous at all—but he was eager to get the interview over with.

"No." He answered quietly. "This is nothing new. I just want to do it and be done."

"What if he's there?" Kakashi asked Sasuke, amusement dancing in his eyes. "I have a hunch he will be, and I'm always right about these things."

Sasuke shrugged, his thumb ghosting over Sakura's knuckles under the table. "It won't matter. He'll just get more pissed off. My plan was to submit him quickly, but I may just have to really fuck him up. There's a point of shit talking where I draw the line and he may reach that tonight."

"Just make sure you keep your head on your shoulders, kid." One of his trainers, Asuma, told him and Sasuke nodded instead of rolling his eyes like he wanted to.

Kakashi had reserved them a spot at this restaurant a month before. Especially with them dining in the city the fight was being held in—and it was now the night before the fight. Fans from all over were piling in and Sasuke was very popular. Too popular, if you asked him.

This restaurant though, had private rooms. They were dining in one that was more than big enough for all of them— and yet it had a comforting atmosphere to it. The food was good. The company was better. But before long, Kakashi announced that it was time they leave.

"We've got forty-five minutes before the interview. We should have left twenty minutes ago." He sighed and everyone got up while Sasuke had a long drink from his water.

"Move your ass, Sasuke." Another of his coaches ordered and Sasuke gave him a cold look before getting to his feet.

Kakashi's eyes fell to Sasuke's hand, which was still clasped together with Sakura's and his brows pulled together. "Let's not make a scene as we walk out, alright?"

His words really struck Sasuke the wrong way. He listened to his manager's shit constantly. He did everything he was supposed to do, but if he wanted to hold Sakura's hand then he would. So what if the paparazzi was outside waiting, so what if some fans caught sight of it. He didn't give a damn.

But Sakura pulled her hand away slowly from his.

Sasuke scowled at Kakashi but said nothing as they all made their way outside of the restaurant. All of his team members surrounded him and Sakura the instant they walked through the doors. There were dozens of reporters there, shouting out questions and snapping photographs. There were even more fans crowded around. Such a crowd had formed that law enforcement was there, holding people back.

Sakura seemed a little frightened, her head downcast as they moved along. It upset Sasuke to see her looking anxious as Kakashi repeatedly told the reporters that he would not be answering any of their questions. It took several moments for them to get inside the limo waiting for them, even though it was parked right in front of the door.

Once Sakura was in, Sasuke got in behind her and as soon as his team members were inside, Kakashi being the last to get in, the door was slammed shut and the driver pulled off.

They rode along, Kakashi muttering the whole time about someone at the restaurant giving their location away. Sakura relaxed and this in turn made Sasuke feel a little better. But they would face more craziness as soon as they got out to have his interview.

"Hey, you just have to ignore them. Keep your eyes on me." He told her, giving her a reassuring smile.

She returned his smile and nodded happily. "Of course." She then added a little softer, for the others not to hear, "I'm happy being here, I just don't want to cause any trouble for you."

They made it to the studio right on time, only a few moments spared—just long enough for them to get inside. Kakashi got out, followed by the team members who formed a circle for Sasuke and Sakura to stand within. Fans were screaming and even trying to push past his team members. It was no easy feat, being they were all big guys that posed as his bodyguards as well.

Sasuke glanced down at Sakura, her hand was on his arm and her eyes on him. She didn't seem so shaken up this time and that was enough to have Sasuke smirking at her. He wanted to tease her, talk to her. To hell with the interview. But then Kakashi pulled him away, three of his guys walking with them while three others stayed with Sakura.

His eyes stayed on her as long as they could, but she was giving him a soft smile and a wave. He knew she didn't want him to worry about her, but he did. He didn't want her to feel uncomfortable, but he knew his team members wouldn't let anything happen to her.

Once Sasuke was backstage, a male makeup artist walked over to him. "Quickly, let's get you camera ready! Oh…" He trailed off before grinning. "Nevermind, you're good."

"We're on in two minutes!" One of the directors shouted and Kakashi led Sasuke to his entrance.

"Now, now… be on your best behavior, Sasuke." He warned and Sasuke scoffed.

"Don't worry about me."

Sasuke walked on stage, the large audience there roaring at the sight of him. This was his first interview this big. He walked over to where the couch was, the host sitting in a chair to the side of it. The man extended his hand and Sasuke shook it before taking a seat. The camera crew was already in position, they counted down and in less than a minute, they were on the air.

"Sasuke The Prodigy Uchiha, ladies and gentlemen." The host grinned, the audience was still raving and Sasuke just kept his eyes on the host doing his interview. "Well, I'm honored to be able to interview you myself. I'm actually a big fan and I must say, you appear more calm in person than you do on television." He chuckled before turning a bit more serious, though his smile never faltered. "So, tell us… how are you feeling? Your opponent has much more experience than you. It must be quite scary, right?"

"No." Sasuke answered honestly. "This is not the first time I've fought someone with more experience than me. I'm more than ready and I'm in better shape than I've ever been."

"Your opponent has had his own interviews. He's declared repeatedly that he will win and claims he will do so easily. What do you have to say about that?"

"I'm glad he thinks that." Sasuke said, his expression as stoic as it ever was.

"So, are you as confident as you always are? You're in it to win it, but do you have any doubts?"

"I know what I'm capable of better than anyone else. I never doubt myself."

"What are your thoughts about your opponent? Do you think he will give you more of a challenge?"

"I think he's hot headed. And I wish, but no… I don't believe he will." Sasuke shrugged.

"Do you have a plan of action going into this fight?" The host asked excitedly.

"Win. That's it."

"Will you go for a submission right off the bat?"

"That's for me to know and you to find out."

The interview went on for another half an hour and Sasuke was more than ready to leave. He remained cool and collected, answering each question impassively and honestly. By the time it was over, he was dying to get to the hotel. Tonight, he didn't want to see anymore fans or reporters. He didn't want his team to have to surround him and Sakura with every step they took. He just wanted to get back with her and relax. Tomorrow he planned to take it easy, probably not even leave the hotel except for his weigh in. Hopefully Sakura would be fine with that.

As soon as they were in the hotel room, alone and finally surrounded by peace and quiet, Sasuke turned to Sakura apologetically.

"I'm sorry about tonight." He told her sincerely. "Sometimes things are crazier than other times… maybe I shouldn't have brought you."

She smiled at him and waved her hand. "Don't worry about me, Sasuke-kun. I'm happy to be here."

Knowing Sakura wasn't upset with her decision to come with him, Sasuke found himself relieved. Sakura took her bag into the bathroom and had a shower while Sasuke went through his own bag. He pulled out some shorts and briefs and his shower supply bag. He would have one after her. She returned from the bathroom after twenty minutes, smelling so good Sasuke could concentrate on nothing else, besides her sweet scent and her choice of sleepwear.

His left brow cocked as he took in the pale pink t-shirt gown. It looked silky and hung down just to her mid thighs. It was a bit too distracting, but after a long moment Sasuke was able to return his gaze to hers.

"I'll have a shower now." He told her, voice having dropped a few octaves. He mentally chided himself as he grabbed his shower bag and headed into the bathroom, flustered as he was he didn't even think about grabbing his shorts and briefs.

Sasuke took his time in the shower, washing his hair thoroughly before washing his body. He couldn't stop thinking about Sakura in that damned gown and how good she smelled… damn it all to hell. He wanted her. He really wanted her. And yet, he couldn't have her.

It was all so frustrating but Sasuke somehow managed to clear his head and finish his shower. Once he was dry he brushed his teeth and only then did he realize he didn't bring his clothes to the bathroom.

"Shit."

Rolling his eyes, Sasuke snatched the towel he used from where he'd hung it up and wrapped it around his waist. With his luck, Sakura would probably think he did it on purpose, but he hoped not… because he really wished he hadn't made such a mistake.

With a sigh he left the bathroom, holding tight to to the towel around his waist. His eyes went to Sakura as he walked over to the side of the bed he left his clothes on. She took him in with wide emeralds, face heating up as her eyes traveled down his naked torso and then lingered where the towel began at his lower waist.

Now was not the best time for her to be looking at him in such a way, with him being already so flustered. But he couldn't say he didn't like it. Instead of grabbing his clothes right away, he stood there for a few moments, staring at her and soaking up the way she admired him--and the way her whole body flushed as she did. She was red all over and too cute for her own good.

"Uh… Sorry." Sasuke finally muttered after a while, grabbed his shorts and briefs and raised them up in explanation.

Sakura only continued to stare at him in shock as he turned and walked back towards the bathroom, smirking when he was finally out of her sight.

She definitely wanted him too.

As soon as he was dressed in his briefs and shorts he walked back into the room, shooting her a soft smile as he shook out his hair. "Sorry about that."

"It's okay…" She breathed, still a bit flushed as she looked over him. He loved that she had seen him shirtless countless times now, and she could still be this affected by it.

Sasuke settled into bed and Sakura scooted closer to him as they laid back and flipped through the channels to find something on TV. As soon as he found the Disney channel and noticed there was an animated movie playing, he tossed the remote aside, knowing Sakura would more than likely love whatever movie it was.

The proximity between he and Sakura though, was the only thing on his mind. His jaw tensed as she rested her head on his chest and scooted even closer. It would not do to be having ungentlemanly thoughts while she was so obviously getting into whatever movie was playing. His arm was behind his head, but before he could stop himself he'd moved it around to hold her, his hand laying on her side and feeling the soft, thin gown she wore.

Being with her like this… it filled Sasuke with an unfathomable comfort… and yet he wanted so much more.

They laid just like that, Sakura's arm wrapped around Sasuke as she snuggled close. Before the movie was over she was yawning, and just after it ended she mumbled something unintelligible to him--and then she was asleep. Sasuke smiled at this, his fingers ghosting up and down her arm as he thought about how at ease he was with her. He knew he could never be like this with anyone else. Only Sakura. That's why, somehow… he had to make her his.

…

The next morning came quickly. Sakura ordered room service for breakfast, though Sasuke wasn't having anything. This concerned Sakura and she questioned him worriedly, knowing he hadn't eaten very much the day before either. But he assured her he would have a big dinner after his weigh in later that day.

They lounged around all day long, watching TV and talking and laughing. They were having a great time, just the two of them. Though they were surprised not to hear from Naruto or Ino throughout the day. When it came time to get ready for the weigh in, Sasuke got out of bed and had a shower. He dressed in his branded fight shorts before leaving the bathroom.

Sakura was watching him eagerly as he dug through his gear, grabbing a black t-shirt with his logo on it before stepping into a pair of his training pants. He only used them to wear when he was going to his weigh-ins and when he was going to his fights. He never actually used them for training, he much preferred his loose shorts.

"Can't say I'm looking forward to seeing this bastard." Sasuke sighed, his eyes moving to Sakura now that he was ready. She was dressed in a pair of white capri leggings and a long, black dress shirt. She wore black flats with the outfit and her hair was down. She looked beautiful. Too beautiful.

"He's probably shaking at the thought of meeting you," she teased.

"Hn. Probably." Sasuke smirked.

More than anything, Sasuke just wanted to get it over with… and then get his fight tomorrow behind him as well. His team was coming to pick them up, but Sasuke was surprised when he found all of them in the lobby downstairs when he and Sakura were on their way out.

"What's the problem?" Sasuke asked, instantly becoming annoyed at the look on their faces.

"Paparazzi." Kakashi explained. "Naruto just did make it out… took them several minutes. The car is waiting, but it's best if we walk with you."

"How did our location become known?" Sasuke snapped.

Kakashi sighed. "Your buddy made a post on his professional account, bragging about how nice the hotel was."

"That idiot." Sasuke groaned.

"I've told Jiraiya too many times to keep Naruto off of that account. He is too unpredictable." Kakashi was annoyed too, but he was always good at keeping his cool. "Let's get going."

Sasuke grabbed Sakura's hand and pulled her closer to his side as his team members surrounded them. They walked out, dozens of cameras snapping and reporters shouting for attention. This time even Kakashi ignored them as he hurried to the limo and opened the door, Sasuke's team member's in front standing to the side while Sasuke and Sakura got inside.

The people were ridiculous, even so much as chasing after the limo once it started moving. It was annoying, but not unusual for Sasuke so he only sighed and gave Sakura a reassuring smile as they rode along.

Things were even worse when they arrived at the center. There were more fans than reporters there though, and Sasuke wasn't sure who were worse. They managed to make it inside after a few moments of struggling. Once there, Ino came bouncing up, all smiles as she pulled Sakura to her side.

A couple of Naruto's team members were with Ino, and a couple more of Sasuke's stayed behind with her and Sakura while Sasuke was forced to move along. He knew Sakura would be watching him. Right now, he had to get this weigh in over with, and hopefully get a rise out of his opponent.

Naruto had already been weighed in, and he and his opponent were standing up at each other, both of them looking pissed. Sasuke rolled his eyes, no matter how many times he suggested Naruto keep calm, the dobe never listened. There was one more set of fighters that went next and Naruto came bounding over excitedly.

"Oy, teme! I'm so pumped." He chuckled and punched Sasuke in the arm. "How about you?"

"Yeah… so pumped." Sasuke muttered, eyes on the other fighters being weighed.

"You're so boring." Naruto scoffed. "Well, I'm gonna go wait with the girls. See ya!"

Sasuke narrowed his eyes after Naruto then, but sighed as he turned back around just as it came his turn to walk up to the scales. He walked up there, ignoring everyone and everything as he stripped off his shirt and pants before stepping on the scale. He'd gained a few pounds, but was still okay. Thankfully.

He was ushered to the side where he waited and watched as his opponent came up and stepped on the scale next. He was a rough looking bastard, long shaggy hair and a beard. As soon as he was weighed he turned to Sasuke with a cold look in his eyes, though he was smirking as he walked over to him, fists already raised.

Sasuke raised his fists as well, face as impassive as it could have been as he stared into the bastard's eyes. "Ready to get your ass handed to you, kid?" He snarled.

"Good luck." Sasuke told him coolly, and his opponents nostrils flared.

"Cocky little shit." He hissed, pushing his hands forcefully against Sasuke's.

It was then that Sasuke allowed himself to smirk and he dropped his hands. "You should save all that energy for tomorrow. I'll be ready."

Sasuke's smirk pulled into a grin when the man went to pounce at him, only to be grabbed by two of his men. Sasuke wanted to laugh, but refrained as he turned away and looked to his manager who was rolling his eyes.

Kakashi led the way off the stage, where a camera was stuck in their faces and a reporter quickly stuck a microphone towards them.

"There seemed to be a lot of tension up there. Is it possible The Prodigy is affected for once?"

"No." Sasuke answered before Kakashi could. "Only amused." He did chuckle then and the reporter raised a brow.

Before she could question him further, Kakashi was forcing him away. The reporter was raving about Sasuke's amusement and the way he laughed and Sasuke hoped it riled his opponent up even more. He hoped the fight would be interesting.

Naruto's team and Sasuke's all had dinner together. Sasuke ate more than his fill and had a good time, especially having Sakura with him. She always made him feel lighter, more alive. She'd come into his life and made it more than just fighting--and training to do so. There was more normalcy to the way he lived now. He wasn't just a fighter. He was a man… and he was enjoying this turn of events.

Another night of cuddling with Sakura and a good night's sleep and then the day of his fight arrived. He and Sakura had a big breakfast in bed, talking about his fight and Naruto's. Sasuke finally gave Sakura her pass to go backstage and she seemed just as excited as he was--actually even more so.

"Good luck, Sasuke-kun." Her smile was so genuine, so bright and encouraging. Sasuke couldn't help but feel her positivity wash over him, too. It only added to his excitement. She gave him a quick hug, and looked into his eyes a little longer before finally letting him go.

At the arena, Sasuke was standing backstage with Sakura, Naruto and Ino while waiting on their fights to get closer. Naruto would be fighting first and he had been bouncing on his feet since they arrived. Soon enough, it was time for Sakura to go with Ino so they could get to their front row seats.

"I'll see you later!" She waved. "After you've won."

"Alright." He grinned, watching her go with a gleam in his dark eyes. Now it was just him and Naruto.

"I hope you don't fuck up and actually lose for once." Naruto joked.

Sasuke snorted. "Worry about yourself, dobe. And how about you try to keep things clean?"

"Fuck that, I'm drawing blood with the first punch. Watch me."

"Whatever." Sasuke shook his head. Naruto would always be impossible. "Kick some ass then."

"You too, teme."

Naruto's fight began soon after and Sasuke watched on the TV, arms crossed at his chest as he stood there. Kakashi and his team members were at his sides, but keeping quiet as they watched as well. The first round was a blood fest. Sasuke was not surprised. He was impressed that Naruto had remained untouched, but also impressed that his opponent was still hanging in there--though he was just barely doing so. It was only a few seconds into the second round though that Naruto knocked him out.

"Way to go, loser." Sasuke smirked, definitely feeling more pumped for his fight now that he'd watched Naruto.

The time had come. Sasuke was eagerly following Kakashi through the entrance. His music was playing, the fans were screaming, but as he walked along his eyes were locked on Sakura. She was beaming at him and waving happily. He sent her a smile once he got closer.

After stripping down to his shorts and getting checked by the ref, vaseline was put on his face and then he put in his mouth piece.

"Alright, go get his ass," Kakashi said and Sasuke nodded once before walking up the steps and into the octagon.

His opponent was already there, walking around like a beast. That's just what he looked like. He didn't even bother pulling that ridiculous mane he had up. Sasuke was ready to shut him the hell up, he was bouncing around his corner, shaking out his arms as he looked over his challenger. He still was undecided on what he was going to do.

The ref stood between them and they came in closer to each other, listening to him. When he called for them to touch gloves, Sasuke raised his fists, but his opponent turned on his heel and walked away. The crowd booed him loudly and Sasuke just laughed.

It was time to fight, but Sasuke didn't expect with the bastard to hang back. Hot headed as he was, Sasuke just knew he would come charging at him… but he was probably more afraid than he let on. This only amused Sasuke further. He walked closer, but the man just kept moving further away. After a moment, Sasuke raised his fists in question. He knew what the bastard was trying to do, drag out the fight. Sasuke wouldn't let him.

"All that shit talking and you're just going to run away from me? Come on now…" Sasuke teased.

Though it didn't send the bastard into coming at him, it distracted him enough for Sasuke to jump him. Sasuke got him in a clench and kneed him in the face several times before twisting around to his back, securing his arm around his throat as he did. The man went to fall to his knees, but Sasuke held him up, tightening his hold around his neck while waiting for the bastard to tap out.

He held for a long moment, grabbing at Sasuke's arm but to no avail. Finally he tapped and Sasuke let go, turning his nose up as he watched the bastard crumble. The crowd roared in elation and Sasuke turned to see Sakura jumping up and down, screaming. He laughed before turning around in just enough time to see his fallen opponent spring to his feet and lunge at him. Sasuke dodged quickly and used his right leg to sweep the bastards feet right from under him.

"The fuck do you think you're doing?" Sasuke snapped, more than willing to kick his ass again… and again if he needed to.

Kakashi was inside the octagon then, along with the man's manager and they were having words. Sasuke's team surrounded him while the bastard was forced out of the octagon and not even able to stand by for the announcements. Not that Sasuke cared, he was just as pleased to be the only one standing there when his victory was announced.

Backstage, everyone was raving about the stupid move his opponent had pulled. Sasuke just shrugged it off. The guy was a loser and he'd proved it more than once. The situation was still amusing to Sasuke. There were a few fans backstage that he had to to acknowledge and sign autographs for but soon enough Sakura was running up to him.

She was all grins and sparkling eyes as she threw herself into his arms. Sasuke caught her, wrapping her in a tight embrace as he laughed. He gazed down at her as she held him tight around his neck and the next thing he knew, their lips were connected.

It happened so fast and so unexpectedly that Sasuke hadn't even realized it happened until it ended. Sakura's giddiness faded and her cheeks turned beet red. Sasuke's ears burned too as he released her and scratched his head in his confusion.

Did that… really just happen?

Sakura's hands covered her flaming cheeks and she stared at him with wide eyes. Sasuke wasn't even sure which of them had initiated the kiss… it had just happened so naturally. Their mutual excitement just… brought them closer and they couldn't help themselves?

But what did it mean… and why did he want to do it again? No… he was going to do it again, fuck it all. She squeaked in surprise when he tugged her against him, locking her flush against his body. Her eyes widened further and her hands pressed against his naked chest.

"Sasuke-kun," She breathed and Sasuke leaned down closer to her, so that his lips were merely an inch away from her own.

"That wasn't enough." He told her before sealing those soft pink lips of hers with his. She tasted as sweet as she always smelled and nothing had ever felt more thrilling to him, than it did to kiss her.

His lips moved against hers softly but with an urgency that surprised him. She responded though, manicured nails digging into his chest as she kissed him back, a soft moan humming in her throat.

"Whoa, alright kids… let's settle down now. A scene has been made. I repeat, a scene has been made."

Sasuke's lips pulled away from Sakura's with an audible smack and he glared at Naruto who instantly held up his hands defensively.

"Seriously." He grumbled. "Look around."

Sasuke glanced around to see everyone staring at him and Sakura… and Sakura was red all over and looking a bit faint. Shit. He sighed only a second before Kakashi was in front of him.

"Damn it Sasuke, what have I told you about causing a scene?" He groaned. "You'll be lucky if this isn't on the front page come morning. You might be in luck. I only see one reporter back here, but I'd be willing to bet they snapped some pictures."

"I'm sorry." Sasuke said to Sakura, not bothering to say anything to Kakashi. He would deal with him later.

Sakura opened her mouth to say something, but closed it instead. She gave him a smile and waved him off nervously. "I'm sorry, I don't know what happened."

"It was my fault." Sasuke sighed, looking her over worriedly. "You okay?"

She looked over to Kakashi, then to Ino and Naruto before nodding. "I think… I think you should ask them instead."

Ino had her hands over her mouth, and Naruto looked equally as shocked. Kakashi on the other hand… he did not look pleased at all.

Sasuke had to listen to Kakashi's nagging the whole way to the restaurant but he drew the line when they finally arrived there and his manager was still running his mouth. To do it at all was ridiculous, but to do it in front of Sakura… it really pissed Sasuke off.

"Listen, Kakashi… drop it. I'm a grown fucking man, in the public's eyes or not. I'm going to do what the fuck I want and you're not going to make Sakura feel bad."

He said it when Sakura had walked to the bathroom with Ino, and Kakashi knew just how serious he was.

"I'm sorry Sasuke, but this could turn out bad for you."

"And if it does so be it, I don't need you running your mouth about it. For once, I'm trying to live my fucking life outside of my career. I need you to understand and respect that. And most of all, you will respect Sakura. Got it?"

"Fine, I got it, but will Sakura feel that way when she has to deal with the backlash?"

Sasuke was pissed… he could only imagine how Sakura was feeling and he feared she would be regretting the whole thing. Sure the first kiss had been unexpected, but Sasuke wanted more. He needed it, and he took it. After Naruto humiliated her and Kakashi's constant nagging, Sasuke wouldn't be surprised if Sakura finally did run for the hills.

He didn't give a damn about the press and he did want to be with Sakura. If they ever became official, he would want to show her off. He would want people to know she was his. But… maybe Sakura wouldn't want that. He didn't want to cause her any problems, he didn't want her to suffer because of him. He wanted her… to be happy.

When he finally slumped down in a chair, Naruto was quick to take the chair next to him. "Shit, teme… I can't believe you pulled a stunt like that. I mean you of all people… even I'm not into PDA."

"Shut up, loser." Sasuke growled. "It just… happened."

"Okay but… a kiss like that doesn't just happen." Naruto shook his head. "I mean, I didn't even know you and Sakura-chan were dating!"

"We're not." Sasuke grumbled. "Like I said, it just happened. So, drop it."

Sakura and Ino came to join them then and Sasuke's eyes locked on Sakura. She averted her eyes, looking flustered as she took a seat in the empty chair next to him. He wanted to apologize--again, but he couldn't form any words.

"Sakura-chan, you alright?" Naruto leaned around Sasuke to ask. He couldn't have been too worried, what with the goofy grin on his face.

"I'm not sure what you mean, Naruto. I'm fine."

"Oooh?" Naruto gave her a sly grin and then looked at Sasuke. "More than fine?"

Ino pulled him back to her by the ear and gave him a warning glare. "Don't tease her too much, she might cry."

"Ino!" Sakura screamed indignantly.

The blonde only smirked and crossed her arms. "Don't pretend teasing doesn't affect you, forehead. You used to hide behind me all the time."

"Not anymore!" Sakura bit back, but immediately bit her tongue when Ino raised her brow and gave her a sly smile.

"So you don't mind Naruto and I tease you more, then?" That smirk on her face was starting to look permanent, and Naruto's fox like grin was back.

"I mean, if that's really what you want, Sakura-chan. Show teme how to stand up for himself when he gets teased, ya know? He needs it. Can't just pretend the stick up his ass gets deeper whenever someone does."

"Naruto, shut the hell up." Sasuke snapped, beyond annoyed by the whole situation.

Ino and Naruto laughed. "See what I mean, Sakura-chan? Teme can't handle it."

"Teach him good, Sakura," Ino winked.

The pinkette was fuming. It was confusing, too. Sasuke wasn't so sure if she was livid or embarrassed. Maybe both. He knows she was annoyed, though. But she looked cute when she was all flustered like that, too.

After a few more seconds of Sakura's fuming, Ino decided to drop the teasing and started a whole new conversation once their food arrived. "Hey, since we're already in this part of town, why don't we hit the beach tomorrow?"

"The beach? Really?" Naruto was so excited he nearly dropped his fork.

Sakura raised her brow. "What are you thinking, Pig?"

Ino grinned. "Oh, don't you remember? I have a beach house near here. We can stay there for a few days. I already called to check. No one's using it."

Sasuke raised his brow. Beach house. Was there anything this girl didn't own?

"Oh right!" Sakura exclaimed. "The same beach house we went to when we were in high school? That house was nice!"

"The same one," Ino confirmed. "What do you say?" She looked at Naruto and at Sasuke.

"I'm in!" Naruto cheered.

"Sasuke-kun?" Ino batted her eyelashes playfully at him. "Don't worry, Sakura's going for sure."

Sasuke opened his mouth to speak when Kakashi suddenly interjected. "Sasuke has training. Right, Sasuke?"

Sasuke's eyes narrowed on his manager then. "I will go." He stated firmly. "I hope we can stay a while." He added, giving Kakashi a pointed look. He'd had enough of his shit.

"Perfect!" Ino clapped her hands together. "I'll have a car come pick us up tomorrow."

"This should be interesting." Sasuke said, smiling softly as he leaned close to Sakura, wondering how she was truly feeling at the moment.

Sakura leaned a little closer to him, too. "You'll love it, Sasuke-kun. It's such a nice house, and it's a private beach front. It'll just be us."

"Private is right," Ino boasted. "Not another house in sight."

Sakura giggled. "I'm surprised you didn't convert that into a resort or something, Pig. It's too big for a rest house."

Ino sighed. "You know how it is. Tradition matters. They don't wanna get rid of the house."

He drowned out their conversation, which went on about real estate. Taking some time off from everything would certainly be nice… being with Sakura was only an added bonus. Sasuke was tired of being hounded by his manager. He was an exceptional fighter, he trained more than he did anything. He lived his life to be perfect for his team--to reach his goals, always. But if he wanted to take a break he would, and it wouldn't hurt him. Not a single day, and not even a few.

Getting away would be fun… and the privacy would be nice. Even if Ino and Naruto were there. Sasuke could only hope that he could be on his best behavior and that he and Sakura could have a good time--and hopefully get a little closer.