Finding True Love

by LimJJ

When she had finally won the heart of her life long crush, she thought she had everything she could ever want. However, in the process of winning the heart of the last Uchiha, she pushed away the most influential person in her life. Only when he was gone did she realize what she had done. How wrong was she. Years later, that person returned but a changed man.

11. Taking care of Sakura

Chapter 9: Taking care of Sakura

On the Hokage mountain where two figures stood not far from each other in silence. A question so complicated yet so easy to reply. It was either a yes or a no but it wasn't as easy as it is. Naruto knew that this day would come and he hated it. The relationship that he and Hana shared was special. No one could ever replace Hana to him. Just like how no girl could replace Sakura in his heart. Hana has solidify a special place in his heart and he knew it, whether he chooses to like it or not. He looked at the woman in front of who have given so much for him while knowing she will receive nothing. Took care of him in his most vulnerable state. Made sure he got back on his own two feet. She would do anything to make sure he is safe and sound. One would expect after all they went through together, Naruto would still love her…

However, it was not meant to be. They were not meant to be together in this world. Perhaps if there was an alternate universe, he knew he would love her till death do them apart. Right now, he's still bound by his former pink haired teammate. Call it a curse if you want but no matter how hard he tries to let go of her. He still loves her and he hates himself for it. Sakura Haruno will always be the one and only girl he loves. No one else could take her place.

"I think you already know the answer Hana…"

She gave a sad smile. Both of them knew the answer to the question but it was better to get some closure. It was a topic they've been avoiding for a long time. It was time the two of them close the chapter of the book and move on to the next. She was glad that Naruto at least gave her a chance to be with him. To let her into his heart. Although she could not replace Sakura Haruno, she knew she has a special place in his heart. It was good enough.

"I know. But I feel that we needed some sort of closure."

"What do you want me to say?"

"Say that you don't love me. Don't sugar coat it"

"Why…"

"Just say it Naruto. If not for yourself then do it for me" she looked at him with pleading eyes.

He was silent for a moment. No point prolonging this any longer. How he wished he could return the love Hana gave to him. He could easily say that he still loves her but he would be lying to himself. Moreover, it wouldn't be fair to Hana at all. To be in a relationship where the love is always one sided. She didn't deserve it.

"I don't love you Hana…I'm sorry"

It was said. She was prepared for it but to finally hear it actually hurts. She will never have a life she wanted with him. To have a family with him. All those dreams gone. She broke down crying. Cursing the gods for her unfortunate fate and most of all, cursing Sakura Haruno. She admired and loathe that woman. To hold the heart of Naruto Uzumaki after so long. She wanted to tell him that he doesn't deserve her but it will be futile. Everything inside her was falling apart. She wanted to cry and curse the damn world for her unfortunate fate. She wanted nothing more than those three words of love from the man in front of her She shook and felt like she was going to fall apart but she had to hold strong. This was what she asked for.

Naruto felt guilty. He knew how she felt because it was the same feeling he had once. He knew the pain she was going through. Hesitantly, he reached out towards her slowly.

He slowly reached his hand out towards her "Hana I'm sor- "

"Don't Naruto…" She backed away from him. She stepped back further. "Don't be sorry for rejecting me. I asked for it."

Hana gave Naruto a painful smile. "I'll be fine. Don't worry"

She was doing everything she could with all her will power to not break down in a heap of tears and cry like a baby in front of him. She never did like showing her vulnerable side to anyone. Even if the person was Naruto. She closed her eyes and took a deep breath but before she could open again, she felt another body against her with arms wrapped around her frame.

"Don't lie to me Hana. I know how it feels as well. Don't tell me you're fine when you're not"

Tears started to form around her eyes in return, Hana wrapped her arms around him and cried into his chest. It may be the last time the two would ever share a moment like this. She would be selfish for this one time. She hugged him and kept him with her for the rest of the night. Never letting go…

The next morning saw Naruto, Sakura and Shikamaru standing in front of the Hokage being briefed on the upcoming dinner. They were told that they would act as body guards for her while also being there as a sign of power and presence. With the protégé of Tsunade Senju and Naruto Uzumaki who was a famous figure amongst the five nations. It would definitely turn heads and gain attention. An ANBU squad would also be sent as back up just in case things went south. They were told to dress up in their best attire. As it was a formal event and there would be a lot of VIPs around, ranging from nobles to daimyos. Tsunade told them to act on their best behaviour. Be respectful to anyone no matter the situation. Security will be on high alert as it wouldn't only be Konoha attending. Several other nobles and daimyo from other nations would be attending as well.

"Will there be other ANBU teams other than Konoha Hokage-sama?" Naruto asked.

Tsunade nodded "Not sure about that since the attendance list isn't with me. I do know that Suna will be coming. So expect the Kazekage and his siblings."

At the mention of the three siblings, Shikamaru groaned. If the Kazekage is coming then for sure that troublesome blonde woman will be there as well. Honestly he would rather just skip this troublesome dinner.

"Is there something wrong Shikamaru?" Tsunade asked playfully. She knew the relationship between him and Gaara's sister. He wouldn't push him into marriage or force him into it but if they did get together, then it would benefit relations between the two allies greatly. Adding to the fact that Gaara and Naruto held a close bond. Suna is an invaluable ally to have.

He shook his head "Nothing Hokage-sama"

"Anything else?" Tsunade asked

When no one said a word. She dismissed the three of them. When the briefing was over, Shikamaru excused himself saying that he had work to do but everyone knew that he wanted to watch some clouds. Naruto without a word, bowed and teleported out of the Hokage building. In the end, only Sakura was left alone. Seeing as she had nothing to do and it was almost impossible to track down Naruto at the moment. She decides to head for some ramen at Ichiraku. When she went in, she noticed that there were a few customers sitting but it wasn't packed. However, she surprised when she saw Naruto's teammate, Hana sitting there while slurping a big bowl of ramen. For such a female almost as petite as her, that is something you don't see every day. Seeing as she and Hana aren't on good terms, she figured that she should avoid the female ANBU but Hana saw her before she could move.

"Haruno?"

Since she was already spotted, might as well greet her and sit next to her. If she just pretends nothing happened and walked away, that would make Hana hate her more. Not sure how much more hatred Hana could have towards Sakura but she guessed it was pretty bad based on their previous few interactions. Forcing up a smile, she walked towards Hana and sat next to her with the ANBU ninja eyeing her.

"Ohaiyo, Hana-san" she greeted

"Since you're already out. I'm assuming Naruto is also done with the briefing?"

"Yep"

"You have any idea where is he at?"

"Err…no. He just vanished without saying anything."

"Hmm…as expected." Hana said before slurping another mouthful of noodles

Curious. Sakura asked "Expected of what? Something happened?"

Hana just shrugged her shoulders and continue to ignore Sakura. Seeing as Hana won't be answering nor even talking to her anything soon. She ordered her own ramen bowl. When Sakura's bowl arrived, Hana was already finished. She left the money on the table and then turned to Sakura.

"Meet me at the training ground 7. Six in the evening sharp. Don't be late. Bring your gear."

Sakura raised an eyebrow "What for? We training or something?"

Hana shook her head then gave a smile "We're having a sparring session Haruno." Then left the ramen stand right after she said that.

Hours later

Sakura stood at training ground 7 waiting for Hana. She brought all the gears needed for the sparring match. Sakura was glad that Hana asked for a sparring match so she could see how she can hold up against an ANBU operative. Let alone from the best ANBU team in Konoha. Seeing as there isn't much to do but wait, Sakura decided to head for the nearby tree for some shade. Just when she took a step, by pure instincts she had to quickly block a punch from Hana who appeared from nowhere.

"What the hell? Where did she come from?" Sakura thought

Hana didn't stop there either. She continued her assault and soon Sakura was locked in an intense taijutsu battle. She was only able to keep up thanks to the sparring sessions she had with Lee. In the midst of fast exchanges with Hana. Sakura saw an opportunity to get a quick upper cut. It was a move that she saw Tsunade did to her a dozen times. It wasn't just a simple one, it was faster and the movements were smaller so it wouldn't be so predictable. The upper cut caught Hana which caused her to gasp for air but Sakura small victory was short when Hana quickly recovered and head butted Sakura caused her to stumble back.

" You're pretty *gasp* good" Hana said.

"And you have a tough head" Sakura replied back in pain. She could already feel a small lump forming on her forehead. Hana didn't just headbutted her head. She hit dead centre on her diamond marking which happens to be the centre of her abnormally large forehead.

"Takes one to know one." Hana said before standing up "What do you say we get a little more serious. I wanna see that monstrous strength of yours that Naruto always talks about. I bet it feels like nothing"

"You sure? You look like you were gasping for air after that under cut."

"I was just acting y'know?"

"Really? Well then maybe I should punch harder" Sakura said while cracking her fist. She was getting excited and riled up by this woman. She was going to learn why her strength is so feared across five nations.

"Hahaha" Hana smirked "Bring it pinkie"

"You gotta be shitting me." Naruto said. Clearly annoyed at the two battered and bruised kunoichi sitting on the hospital beds in front of him. They weren't just bruised. They looked like they went through a war. Tsunade briefed him that the two had chakra exhaustion, broken ribs, cuts ranging from mild to deep and all sort of other injuries that were too many to list. Naruto sighed as he rubbed his temples. They had a training camp and a big dinner just three days away and here lies one of his best ANBU member sitting on the bed crossed legs pouting like a child with the pink haired kunoichi who was expected to look at her sharpest for the dinner, looking down at the bed sheets clearly guilty. He also noticed the evident bruising on her forehead which was no doubt going to be very, very noticeable if nothing was done to cover it.

"Alright." He looked at Hana first "I'm putting you on off day. Asuna and Kirito will be in charge of you. Go on a shopping date. I don't know. Do whatever the fuck you want BUT getting yourself injured"

Then he turned to Sakura who winced a bit at his annoyed look "I'm assuming Tsunade is already raped your ear with lectures so I'm not going to do it. However, Tsunade put me in charge of your recovery. Am I clear?"

Sakura said nothing and nodded. Naruto turned towards the door and told them he would be doing the paperwork to sign them off under the authorization of Tsunade. Closing the door and walking down the hospital hallway towards the counter. Naruto could not help but feel rather annoyed that he's been put in charge of taking of Sakura. Why should he help? Sakura was a big girl and she can definitely handle herself. Moreover, it doesn't take a genius to guess that Tsunade was trying to play match making between he and Sakura. He would love to refuse but she gave that 'Hokage's order' shit and given that he was her subordinate. He must obey her order, no matter how fucking stupid it is.

A few hours later, Naruto was in Sakura's apartment to help her out with her recovery. Not sure what he could do though to be frank. Since Tsunade forbid Sakura to use chakra, she would need to go old school which meant ice and hot pack. She explained that for today, ice pack would be used since the injury was recent but tomorrow would be hot pack. Sakura told Naruto that he should just go back home since he wouldn't be able to do anything for her because it was a simple task. However, Sakura did not take into account that her hands aren't working like they normally do. Thanks to excessive use of her hands, both of them were swollen badly and therefore rendering them near useless. Naruto noticing this, volunteers himself to help her. At first Sakura protested saying that she would find another only to fall on deaf ears. So here they are now with Naruto putting the ice pack gently on her hands. It should have been an innocent gesture but Sakura felt guilty and shameful. Even now, after all the effort she has done to improve herself over the years. She still needs Naruto to help her with such things. She's pretty sure that deep down he must be feeling annoyed right now. Who wouldn't? If you're in Naruto's position. Helping a girl that crushed your heart with such small matters like this when you could be doing something much better. Anyone would be annoyed and pissed. Naruto's probably doing it out of pity and obligation which is what made her felt even guiltier.

Naruto on the other hand was somewhat strangely not feeling annoyed or any negative feeling towards this. In fact, he was okay with it. Sakura helped heal him in the past and sometimes even going out of her way to heal his injuries. The least he could do is help her with this, even with their terrible past. Naruto though disliked Sakura for what she had done to him doesn't mean that he would be a terrible person to her. Yes he can be harsh and strict at times but it was necessary and also maybe some payback would satisfy him slightly but even then, he still held a soft spot for her. Moreover, she was a teammate and as much as he hate to admit was still his best friend. Even after all the shit that has happened. Naruto was almost done with her hands and was about to inspect her forehead when he noticed her down cast look. Her shoulders were slouched, her jaw clench tightly and her face looking downwards. He sighed.

"Sakura" he called out.

No response.

"Sakura"

No response again.

"Oh for Kami-sake. Sakura!" he said while slamming the ice pack on her bruised forehead. He didn't use too much force but enough to get her whining in pain.

"Owwww, what did you do that for?" she snapped with an annoyed face.

"Stop giving me that shitty face Sakura. No one is going to fucking like it when they are helping you while you're giving that sad fucking face"

"I wasn't-."

"Bullshit" he cut off. He then slowly started rubbing the ice pack on the forehead "Now are you going to tell me what's with that face or do I have to force you to?"

Sakura pouted and looked away from him "I don't know what you're talking about"

Without hesitation, Naruto grabbed Sakura's cheeks and pressed the ice pack harder onto her fore heard causing her to scream "Itaiiii, okay, okay!"

Sakura looked down "I just…felt guilty that's all."

Naruto raised an eyebrow "For?"

She bit her lip and was silent for a moment then replied "I feel like you're wasting your time helping me with such a small matter when you could be doing something better."

"Something better like?"

"I don't know! Eating ramen, training or something. Probably anything better than this"

Naruto sighed "Still a silly girl you are Sakura. Always jumping into conclusions without asking and knowing anything"

Naruto stood up to inspect the bruising. It had decreased in size slightly which is good. He looked at Sakura "I don't do things I don't want to Sakura. Now, I'm going to help with your cuts on your fists"

"With what?"

"Some herb ointments I got during my time in ANBU"

Naruto started to gently apply the ointment onto her hands and then slowly started to rub it. It was painful but she could manage the pain. It is to prevent blood clothe in the veins so the bruise doesn't turn into a dark blue colour. Sakura was also surprised at how Naruto handled her hands. She thought he would be clumsy and rough but on the contrary. He's actually really good and if she were honest to herself. She really enjoyed it. After a few minutes, when Naruto was finished. He applied some anti infection cream on the areas with open cuts and wounds, then wrapped it up with bandages. Satisfied with his work, he went into the toilet to wash his hands.

"You should get a shower when I'm done" he said as he was walking to the toilet but stopped midway "Wait…Ah fuck. I already wrapped your hands and they aren't supposed to get wet."

"Why not? Just re-wrap it then"

"No, no, no. The ointment I rubbed on you cannot touch water." He thought for awhile the came up with an option. He went into her kitchen and took out two small plastic bags that can fit her hands. He then put it around both of her hands.

"There. Now it won't get wet. I'm assuming you can bath yourself right"

Sakura nodded and walked into the bathroom to shower. Naruto stayed in the living room. He sighed deeply. He was casually staring at the ceiling when Kurama popped out.

"Pretty smooth there Naruto"

Naruto rolled his eyes "I don't know what you're talking about."

"Oh really? I see what you see boy. Don't deny it"

"I was just helping as teammate. Nothing more"

Kurama grinned. "If you say so. I'll get it out of you one way or another. If not me, then it's going to be her"

Naruto glared at the demon fox "It won't happen." He snapped.

If there's one thing the young man in front of him still retained from his old self. It was definitely his stubbornness. Probably inherited from his fiery mother as well. He could see it as clear as day that what Naruto did for Sakura was not just because he was her teammate or the bullshit excuses he gives. Naruto still cared for her greatly and he just hasn't realised yet. Kurama chuckled. Naruto was always protective towards the girl. It has become an instinct for him. A natural thing for him to do. Oh well, Naruto could deny it all he wants but one day he will realise it. That even he, needs someone to complete him and only then he will find true love and happiness. Just then Sakura came out of the door with a wet towel covering her body. She was surprised to see the nine tails in her house. Although its not the first time she has seen him in that miniature form. It does still surprise her sometimes. Kurama saw her and grinned which creeped out Sakura a little bit while Naruto remained stoic in his seat, not turning out. Probably to respect her privacy. She went into her room and closed it. Kurama looked at his partner and grinned.

"You know you could have turned around and see her"

"For what?"

"Wasn't it always your wet dream to see Sakura like that? Even though if she was covered with a towel?"

"That dream is dead"

"But the dream to smash her isn't I'm assuming" Kurama smirked

"It won't happen."

"How are you so sure of everything?"

"Because it has happened before. Why risk getting hurt again?"

"Kit." He slammed his face into his face "You do know she likes you now right?"

"It doesn't matter." Naruto stood up and walked away towards Sakura's balcony. Kurama sighed. Naruto really is a stubborn person and a massive idiot at that too. In the past he always wished for Sakura to finally returned his feelings and now that he has it. He rejects it. Though Kurama couldn't blame the young man. Naruto went through a lot of crap for that pink haired woman. Rejections and heartaches were always a common thing whenever Sakura was involved. So he wasn't surprised that Naruto was rejecting Sakura's feelings now. The tables have really turned.

Three days later

Naruto waited outside Sakura's door for her to open it. The dinner was today and they had to depart early. They would be wearing ninja attire during their travel and will only change to their formal clothing later. Finally Sakura opened up with her bag of clothes and a scroll that was keeping her dress. She also brought some medical supplies just in case something might happen. Naruto also brought along his ANBU gear. A ninja must always be prepared and one can never be too careful. Sure the place will be heavily guarded but then again, anything can happen. When Sakura finished locking the door, the two left to meet Tsunade at the gates. During their roof hopping journey Naruto eyed Sakura's hand. During the three days, they have recovered a lot but she still lacks mobility and strength in her hands. If a fight were to break out, she would be left almost defenceless. Hopefully all goes well and everyone goes back without a scratch. Reaching the gates. He found Tsunade and Shikarmau along with the security team that was going to follow them. They were the Hokage's personal guards. These ANBU agents only listen to the Hokage's order and no one else. Even though Naruto was their superior, he had very little authority over them. When everyone was ready, the depart. The travel would be a two hours only since it was within the fire country's border.

The travel was silent…Sakura could describe that much. The occasional sound would be Shikamaru puffing out smoke from his cigarette but other than that, it was quiet. Though she could say it was due to Naruto's changed character. If he were his past self, it would surely be energetic and interesting. Now it was just silence. She glanced towards the blonde male who was mainly silent. His face not betraying any emotions. Replaced by a cold and unwavering mask. A prime example of what an ANBU veteran should look like when the mask is taken off. Naruto felt his teammate's eyes on him so he turned to her to see what was wrong. Instead of getting anything, she just awkwardly smiled at him and looked away. Raising an eyebrow, he decided he would just ignore it. She was a weird person at times. The small exchanged didn't go unnoticed by Shikamaru and Tsunade who were behind the two. He looked at Tsunade and she had a smirk on her face, clearly amused and interested with the exchange. He knew the Hokage was playing match making between the two and went as far that she would bet that they would get together in less than two years.

When they finally reached the area. Two guards came to verify the new guests. Only those who were invited are allowed. Meaning Sakura, Shikamaru, the Hokage and Naruto were only allowed. The security team were told to stay outside. Tsunade dismissed the ANBU team and told them to set up a defensive perimeter around the building. She was in safe hands she assured them. She had a veteran ANBU captain, her renown apprentice and Konoha's smartest man. Hardly anyone could be a threat to them. Not that she was trying to be over confident but when you have these three with you and adding to the fact that Naruto is a seasoned veteran who was her most skilled shinobi. Who wouldn't feel extremely safe?

The guard led them to their rooms where they will be staying for the night and that the dinner will start within at 8pm sharp. Since they arrived in the afternoon. They had some time to settle down and get prepared. As they walked towards their room, Sakura couldn't help but admire the marbling on the walls, the quality of the wood on the railings, the chandeliers that had diamonds in it. Everything must have cost a fortune. Tsunade chuckled at her apprentice's amazement to the building. Though she had to admit, it was really good looking. She could only wonder where did all the money came from that helped built this. She looked at Naruto who was observing the building. From her eyes, she knew he wasn't observing how nice the place looked. No. He was looking out for potential breach entrances and escape routes. When they finally reached their room and opened it was pretty much what they expected.

A five star room with all the best furniture that only the wealthiest and most powerful could use. The living room was beautiful and their individual rooms were just as good. Though what else could you expect from such a wonderful place? For Naruto who mainly slept on trees, tent and even dirt for the past two years. This was a change of scenery to him. He wasn't used to seeing such high class places like this. Being in the ANBU and a ninja at that. It taught him to make do of anything. Don't expect a luxurious life because those are for the people wealthier and much more powerful than you. Although being a captain rank in the ANBU with various S and A rank missions under his belt. He was considerably wealthy. Not to mention his family heritage that he will take ownership of. If he were to include his family's wealth. He would be swimming in gold coins by now but that was not the life he wanted. Besides, not many people knew of that he is the son of Minato Namikaze and Kushina Uzumaki. Tsunade said it could prove useless in meetings and dinners like this since he could make deals with powerful people based on his background. He was broken from his thoughts when Tsunade told them to pick their rooms. Tsunade of course being the Hokage had the biggest room of course. Shikamaru's room would be beside Tsunade's while Naruto's will be beside Sakura's. Without saying much, everyone got their stuff and went into their respective rooms.

Several hours later

Naruto was busy getting his tie on when he heard a knock on his door. He opened it and it revealed Sakura who had a blush on her face. She hasn't changed into her dress yet which questioned him.

"Yes?"

Biting her lips, Sakura answered "I need help with my dress"

Naruto didn't say anything at first which made Sakura even nervous. She didn't want to ask him for help but she knew she couldn't wear it by herself. Moreover, she had no idea why she decided to ask Naruto instead of Tsunade. She hoped he wouldn't ask that question, or else it would make this even awkward than it already has.

"Okay."

Relieved that he didn't ask anything more, she led Naruto into her room and started to strip her clothes. Naruto had the courtesy to look away out of respect. The air around them was awkward but none dare to make a noise about it. When she was already in her red dress, she turned her back towards Naruto so he could help her zip it up. Naruto's hands made contact with her skin and it sent shockwaves of electricity throughout her body. The roughness of his palm from harsh training and the abuse he put it through. The gentleness as he zipped her dress. It was electrifying and she craved for more. Her dirty thoughts start to take form and she day dreamed of those hands roaming her body with such steadiness and gentleness. Oh the power those hands could have on her.

Naruto only the other hand was doing his best to keep his contact on her skin minimal but it was no use. Her skin was smooth to his touch. Smoothness and softness he did not know she possess. The higher he zipped it up, the more he found his hands leaning in more for contact. There was a magic in the air. The atmosphere was getting hotter and he felt it. Like a long lost feeling he always wanted but throw away. He was a young man with hormones and this was testing him. He wasn't a virgin of course but it was his dream to get himself into a situation like this. Call him a pervert, he doesn't care. His thoughts were broken when he finally reached the end of the zip. He stepped back, signalling that he is done. Sakura wanted to groaned in protest at the lack of contact but she pushed it back down. If she was going to have moments like this again with Naruto, it should be when they were on better terms. Where their relationship and bond was fixed. Now was not the time. As much as she wanted to jump on him, there were still too many words left unsaid. Wounds still fresh.

She turned around and gave a silent thanks. Naruto nodded and was about to return to his room when Sakura grabbed his collar and turned him around. He was about to ask her what she wanted this time but she spoke first.

"I'm just helping you to fix your tie"

Naruto was silent throughout most of the time as he watched Sakura with a blushed face tying his tie properly.

"Seriously. As a guy, you should know how to tie a tie properly" she grumbled quietly.

When she was done, she stood back and observed the handsome man in front of her. It was the first time she had seen him dressed so formally. He was clothed in a white undershirt collar with a red tie. A black vest was worn around him and a black coat to finish it off. He looked dangerous and sharp. His blue eyes gives him a sort of look in him. She wasn't sure what it was. His gravity defying hair was one of the unique physical features she always liked about him. Wearing almost full black showed his eyes and hair more.

Sakura only the other hand was dressed in a simple red dress with a slit on the right that shows of her creamy thighs. The dress was tight and it complimented the curves she developed over the years. It also compliments the emerald colour of her eyes and her unique hair colour. In Naruto eyes, she was beautiful. Sakura looked at Naruto's face and caught him staring at her.

"What? Something on me?" worried of the fringes on her dress.

"Nothing." Naruto said. "You just look wonderful"

A graceful and beautiful smile graced her face. "Thanks"

Naruto returned the smile. It wasn't big but it was still a smile nonetheless. "No problem"

"You look good too Naruto"

Naruto was about to reply when Tsunade started knocking on the door.

"Hey you two. Stop fucking around and get out. We're leaving soon" she said through the door before walking away.

The two walked didn't say much later and walked out for the dinner. Clearly there were some sparks between them and they knew better to stop it there. As much as Naruto hated it, he wanted more of it. Kurama was grinning in Naruto's mindscape. Much liking what just happened.

HEY GUYS! No Im not dead. I was just on a long hiatus because I had a big game to finish and as I promised to myself. Here is the next chapter. A made it extra long for you guys as well.

Also I hope no one minds the slight change of heart in Naruto. Although I wanted Naruto to bash Sakura in this story, it doesn't mean that it will be 24/7/. I want to write Naruto's character as he slowly progress from loathing his ex teammate to slowly having a liking in her. Finding that spark and love again. It will be a gradual thing and I will put obstacles and conflicts in their slowly becoming love. There will still be Sakura bashing from Naruto. Sorry.

Thanks for the support and if you have any suggestions on my writing style. Any criticism. Please drop a review and I will take note of it. Your criticism helps improve me as a writer :D