Sakura stared at the door for another minute contemplating whether to enter the dining area or follow Sasuke. Stepping down as a prince? What the hell is he saying?! That is so absurd!
In the end, Sakura spun on her heel and ran after Sasuke. It did not take too far for her to catch him. She grabbed his left arm before he could even take another step. Sasuke instantly stopped walking; he only cast a sideway glance at her before he tried to walk away once again.
He was not able to step more than two steps before Sakura stopped him once again. This time, blocking his path.
"Are you just going to keep on running away from me?" She looked around them to see many body guards standing in the hallway. "Please leave us for a minute." She ordered them quietly.
Sasuke shoved his hands on his pockets and avoided her eyes once they were left alone.
A minute had passed by before Sakura broke the heavy silence.
"What am I to you, Sasuke? Leaving for Oto, now leaving the Palace indefinitely. Why are you doing this?" Sasuke still chose to keep silent. He did not even bother to look at her. "Aren't you going to say something? How many explanations you owe me now?" She continued, her voice slightly trembling.
"I kept on asking myself why you. Is it because I mostly spent my time with you for how many months? Is it because I have no choice in the matter? You have been causing me a lot of pain, you know that, right? I cannot understand the way you think. I do not know how to put up with your impulsiveness. I am scared of my feelings!
"As usual, here I am, keep on wondering the reason behind your actions! I am not a mind reader, Sasuke! Loving you is exhausting! I deserve better than this!"
She paused for a while to look at his expression, but he kept his eyes down. "You really are not going to say something, are you? Then this is pointless! Whatever we have, had is fucking pointless! I hope you live a happy life outside the Palace."
Sakura did not waste a second before sprinting down the hallway, leaving Sasuke alone, expression unreadable as usual.
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Next day after, Tenten had been asked by the Queen herself to summon the princess in the King's chambers immediately. The servant was not exactly sure what was happening but she felt that a storm is coming in the Palace. She was worried for Princess Sakura that being summoned had something to do with the baseless rumors about her having feelings with the Sunagakure prince.
Having been with the princess for almost a year now, Tenten could say she could not even imagine someone as pure and sincere as Princess Sakura could do such thing. She had also witnessed how much love she had for Prince Sasuke. It goes without saying that their relationship was not really like other couples have. They quarrel more often than not. Then later that day she could see the princess back to her bouncy and cheerful personality.
It was hard for the both of them, but being accused of these cheating rumors, she was sure that Prince Sasuke himself knew that Princess Sakura could never do such thing.
She escorted the said princess who looked so nervous to the King's place. She announced their arrival, and the King's personal servant was quick to let them enter.
Sakura noticed right away that Sasuke was already there, with Naruto standing behind him. The King made a gesture for her to sit beside his youngest son. She uncomfortably took a seat beside Sasuke, careful to make enough distance between them. And that did not go unnoticed from Fugaku's keen eyes.
While Sasuke kept his composure in tact, Sakura was on the verge of having a nervous breakdown. She was playing with her fingers, and her eyes kept on looking everywhere but the King.
Once Tenten and Naruto left the room, the King cleared his throat much to Sakura's uneasiness.
"I think you both know why did I summon you here first thing in the morning. There had been-"
"I apologize, Your Majesty. I had been careless with my act-" Sakura bowed her head once, twice, thrice. However, King Fugaku silenced her with his hand. "I did not call you here because of that. You have nothing to apologize for." He then turned to Sasuke. "Have you thought about what you just said last night? Did you reflect upon the weight of your actions?"
"I understand very well what I asked of you, Your Majesty." Sasuke replied.
"You were asking me to disown you. You were asking me and your mother to never see you again. Is that what you really want? What is the reason behind your actions? Why do you intend to do this?" Fugaku had never understood his youngest son that well. If he could define Sasuke in one word, that would be impulsiveness.
"I never wanted to become a royalty, Father. I was asking this as your son. Not as a prince of Konoha."
Sakura glanced at Sasuke in an instant. Does he really dislike that much to be here in the Palace? Is he telling the truth? Even before Sakura could dwell further in her thoughts, Fugaku declined Sasuke's request right away.
"If that is the case, I will not allow it. There is no parent who does not love his children. Having you here in the Palace does not even put Mikoto at ease. She constantly worries about you and Itachi. Once you become a father, you will understand, Sasuke. Severing your ties with us…for you to ask me of such thing, I felt that I had been a failure as a father."
"Father, it's not it. Being a prince-"
"You do not like it, I know that very well. Sasuke, I know that I had a lot of shortcomings as your father. I know how you try your hardest to be able to meet my expectations. I may not know the feeling of being compared to your brother all your life, but I know how difficult it must be for you. I hope you understand my position as the King of this nation. As a King, I had to give more time and attention towards your brother. However that does not mean I do not notice you."
Hearing something like that from the proud and fierce King Fugaku of Konoha, Sakura shifted uncomfortably from her position. She felt like an outsider, somehow interfering from a supposed-to-be a private moment between a father and son. She noticed the way Sasuke's hand was shaking tremendously. Of course, she was still mad at him, but seeing him so vulnerable for the first time since she lived in the Palace made her abandon her ill feelings for a while. She put her hand on top of his, squeezing it slightly. Contrary to what she had expected, Sasuke did not squeeze it back nor did he slap her hand away.
"Father-"
"Say no more, Sasuke. I had already made a decision. I had received an invitation from Iwagakure. It is their King's birthday. In three days time, you will be leaving with Sakura to attend the party. It will be open for the press. Regarding the rumors, Sakura, let Sasuke handle them. As much as possible, do not leave his side for the entire night. And one more thing, Mikoto mentioned about your surname. I had not spoken with your parents yet, but I wanted to let you know. The decision is still yours to make." Fugaku explained.
"Your Majesty, what do you mean? I mean what about my surname." Sakura asked, confused as to what issue Konoha has with her surname.
"In your original birth certificate, you are a Hatake. You were only given a surname of Haruno because your birth parents died. And as Kizashi and Mebuki took the responsibility of raising you up, they had decided to name you after them. I had a feeling that they wanted to protect you from the late King Obito's enemies back then.
"There is no rush, child. Whatever decision you will make, we will respect it. Mikoto and I just thought that it will help the people to know you better. It is no secret that Kakashi Hatake is a hero of this country. With that, I am sure that our countrymen will stop doubting you as a princess." The King clarified.
Sakura merely nodded. She was not certain what would her parents' reaction about that. She did not know that being a princess could really complicate things. But changing her surname..it did not feel right somehow, even though she knew very well that it was simply changing back her surname.
"Now, Princess, I have to ask you a question, and you must answer truthfully." When Sasuke tried to object, Fugaku only shook his head slightly, enough to make Sasuke silent. When it was obvious that his son would not interfere anymore, he continued. "I want to know what is your real feelings. What do you feel about Prince Gaara?"
Sakura looked down, trying to find the right words. "Your Majesty, I- Gaara- I mean Prince Gaara is our classmate. He became my friend. He is kind and smart. But I do not have any romantic feelings towards him. Please believe me. I only see him as a friend."
Contented with her answer, Fugaku nodded. "I see. But do you know what Prince Gaara feels?"
When Sakura chose to keep silent and his youngest son averted his eyes, Fugaku had already understood. "Very well. I hope this does not affect your relationship in any way. You are the future of Konoha. I trust you enough, Sasuke. I am certain you can handle the press well. Prepare for your departure in three days. Until then will discuss about your stay in Oto. If that's all, you can now go."
The young couple bowed their heads and quietly exited the room.
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For three days straight, Sasuke rarely left his room unless necessary. He kept himself busy by reading books and news articles. He had also been consulting to Itachi on ways on how to bridge the gap between the Palace and the citizens. Itachi had not talked about Sasuke's bold request of stepping down as a prince. However, he made it clear to his younger brother that even if their father allowed it, once he becomes a king, bringing Sasuke back in the Palace would be the first thing he would do.
The issue of dysfunctional relationship of Sasuke and Sakura had also been one of the hottest topics in social media. Seemingly Prince Gaara had also remained silent regarding the matter. Now that Sasuke thought about it, there was a high probability that they could see each other in the party in Iwagakure.
He and Sakura did not got the chance to sort things out after his father talked to them. In a way, Sasuke was grateful. He could not determine where to start, what to say to her after all these. When she held his hand, he had frozen. He did not expect that despite her obvious anger towards him, she was able to push that resentment aside to let him know that she was still there for him despite everything.
He wanted to apologize, of course, but he had never apologized to anyone before except his father. And in times, his mother for making her worry. He was a proud prince of Konoha. He was never good in words; what he wanted to say would always be conveyed through his actions. Sasuke hoped that the time and space that he had given her would be enough to cool things down between the two of them. The past week had been intense, stressful for the couple. Sasuke thought that letting time and distance take its course would be the most appropriate action.
Naruto had informed him that Sakura was already waiting for him. Before he left, he stopped by the King's office. Fugaku extended his best wishes for Iwagakure's King Onoki who will turn sixty-five. The King had also reminded Naruto to ensure the couple's safety.
The drive to the airport was uneventful. Neither Sasuke nor Sakura had spoken. Even their chauffeur could feel the awkwardness between the two. There was a careful distance between the two of them. Both had even preoccupied themselves by peering outside the window trying to ease the tension.
Naruto had briefed them that it would be a three-hour flight. He had escorted the both of them to their private plane. Sakura, having to experience riding a plane for the first time, was obviously astonished. Her eyes had sparkled upon seeing her assigned seat.
Hiding his amused smirk, Sasuke quietly took a seat beside her and adjusted his seat for him to sleep. Naruto and Tenten, on the other hand, exchanged a knowing glance upon seeing the prince's reaction. With Sasuke sleeping beside her, Sakura was careful not to make a noise. She had been far too entertained with the movies she could watch. The flight attendant had also been more attentive to her needs. Now and then, the said flight attendant would ask her if she could get Her Highness anything.
Sakura had enjoyed watching the clouds outside the window. From time to time, she would also stand up and engage in a conversation with Naruto and Tenten. Eventually, Sakura had also worn herself out. The flight attendant willingly adjusted Sakura's seat to make the princess comfortable.
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Tenten had insisted that Sakura should wear a black, elegant dress for the event. She had explained that it would match perfectly with Prince Sasuke's suit and tie. In contrast with Sakura's vibrant personality, her overall look says along the lines of being sophisticated and matured.
"Tenten, I am not much comfortable about this."
Tenten merely shook her head and assured the princess. "The people should stop looking at you as the naive and innocent princess, Your Highness."
In a matter of minutes, Sasuke had knocked on the door of her hotel room. Tenten had immediately excused herself out of the room, but not before informing Sakura that the prince had already arrived.
Sasuke dressed up in a suit and tie never failed to make Sakura's heart to race. There were many occasions that she had already seen him made an effort to actually dress up, but every time, she would always be reminded of how attractive Sasuke really is.
"You look.. different." Sasuke's voice brought her back to the present.
"I know. I look ridiculous." Sakura half-pouted, half-scowled.
"That's not it. It's different in a good way." Sakura contemplated whether to comment about how she also see Sasuke's look.
"You also..I- you don't look so bad yourself either." She muttered after a while. Seriously, Sakura? Not so bad? Are you kidding me? He's fucking gorgeous!
As she was scolding herself, Sasuke had crossed the distance between the two of them. In his left hand was the necklace he had given her during their engagement party. He had not wasted a second before putting it on her. "I am returning this to you."
Sakura blinked twice before turning around, carefully examining Sasuke's expression. He looked so different in a way, not because of his suit and tie, but something definitely changed within him. "Sasuke?"
"I had also forgotten to give you my present for your birthday." He took out a rectangular box from his pocket. He opened it carefully to reveal a bracelet that could be paired up with the necklace he had given her previously. He took her hand and proceeded to put it on her.
"Thank you." After thanking him, Sasuke's eyes did not leave hers. It was as if he was seeing her for the first time.
Sakura had always been trying to read Sasuke's expression, but somehow this side of him, this quiet and mysteriously serious expression he was giving her had made her completely nervous.
"Sasuke? Are you okay?" She put his hand on his cheek to check his temperature. When she was assured that he was not sick, she was about to put her hand away but Sasuke had quickly held her hand to stay put and had begun to softly caress her hand. In the process, he had also closed his eyes.
Sakura was dumbfounded at first. She could not move; she simply observed his actions. Along the way, she understood the hidden meaning behind his actions. He was sorry. By then, she could feel her heart beating thunderously against her ribcage. She could feel the tears that was about to fall. Sasuke had opened his eyes after awhile, looking straight into her eyes.
But then again, the knock on the door was enough to separate them. It was Naruto reminding them that the chauffeur was already waiting for them downstairs. Sakura was the first one to regain her composure, shaking off her nerves. "We should go."
Before she could take another step, Sasuke had grabbed her wrist. "Do not leave my side the entire night. Whatever what you will hear, do not pay attention to them." Sakura only nodded in response. Sasuke took her hand, escorting her to the awaiting car.
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With no doubt, every one had anticipated on the arrival of the Konoha's royal couple. Sakura felt all eyes on her that made her grip on Sasuke's hand harder. Sasuke took that as a sign of her distress; he instantly lead her to King Onoki to greet him warmly on his birthday and to avoid the stares of the other visitors.
Sasuke did a great job in avoiding the press and keeping Sakura by his side the entire night. They were always seen together with Sakura refusing to let go of Sasuke's hand. Eventually the couple noticed Gaara talking to some princess. Sakura averted her eyes right away, but Sasuke nodded his head in a way of acknowledging the other prince's presence. "Do not avert your eyes. In that way, people will most likely assume something is going on between you two." He whispered, enough for only Sakura to hear.
However, when Sakura had to go to the comfort room, a news reporter had immediately cornered her before she could even look for Sasuke. She refused to answer any of her questions, trying to remain calm despite the fact that the reporter had accused her foster parents of not raising her well enough. Quickly, she exited the comfort room to find Sasuke waiting for her outside.
"Your Highness, forgive my rudeness, but what can you say about the rumors of your relationship with Sunagakure's Prince Gaara?" A short-haired news reporter persistently asked Sakura.
Sasuke, instead, chose to answer for his fiancee. "I believe that it is made clear that Sakura and I are already engaged. I think that people may had misunderstood the situation. We were all classmates in high school. I see no wrong with her being friends with Prince Gaara. We spent quite some time together. That's all. I also think that having a good relationship with Suna's future king would build a stronger foundation for the future of Suna and Konoha."
"What about your relationship with each other? Is it true that your relationship had been rocky these days?" She then turned to Sakura. "What about the issue about the mistake of choosing you as a princess?"
Again, Sasuke answered for her. "I hope that people would be kind enough to understand Sakura's situation. She had only moved to the Palace not too long ago. There had been adjustments she had to make. She was still getting used to the life of being a princess. And just like any other couples, we also get into quarrels. But that does not mean that our relationship is unstable. These quarrels helped us to understand each other more. It had helped us grow and mature."
To say that Sakura was impressed was an understatement. Clearly, Sasuke could handle the questions very well. He remained calm and composed. Only then did Sakura smile. She had been anxious the entire party, having the attention of everyone focused on her. More than relieved, she was happy that she could see Sasuke being back to his old self. Sure, she had not forgiven him entirely. But having him by her side is a great feeling nonetheless.
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On the way back to their hotel, Sakura thanked Sasuke for being with her the entire night. Sasuke only shrugged in response. She told him how nervous she was whenever the press would be looking at their direction.
"Sasuke? I decided to keep my surname." Sasuke peered at her, studying her expression. "But I also want to have Hatake attached to my name. I also decided to tell the Queen that I want to take on Biology as my major. What do you think?"
"Tch. She would just spoil you for sure. She could never get mad at you." Hearing his response made her giggle.
There are still a lot for them to talk about. But still, this is a progress. Somehow Sakura was assured that everything would be okay eventually. They would be fine.
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A/N: Sorry, this really took a while. I had been caught up with school work. But hey, I'm officially fucking done being a student. Technically, not officially. I still have to attend my graduation in June. This could only mean I have more time now(for at least a month) to write. I am planning to update once more before May ends before I enter the corporate jungle (meh).
Thank you for reading! I hope that Fugaku wasn't OOC much. One thing to write Sasuke and now Fugaku. With their similar personalities, I had a hard time writing them.
Keep me motivated by leaving a review. :)