Hi ya! I am here with chap 11!

Like always, I've got to apologize for the delay ( I've been working on each and every chap with full speed) please forgive me for it and thank you so much for being patient with me throughout the chaps!

Thank you (touched)…! And thank you for all of your REVIEWS!

And sorry that I couldn't reply individually as usual but you sincerely have my thanks and your REVIEWS are well read and received! Thank you so much for your support!

I hope I can see you again in this chap!

Ps: Really…twenty four hours a day isn't enough…

So without further ado…CHAP 11 lets go! Enjoy! :D


Sweet Seventy

Eleven… Love Is Messy

"I'LL NEVER FORGIVE YOU, ITACHI!"

In that voice rung a thundering sorrow, so loud that no one could hear him weep. Sakura had never been so struck when she watched Sasuke dashed out of Orochimaru's office without another word or a glance to spare.

He left her behind as he ran for his life to take cover from the shame and agony he is about to explode from.

It is alright…because she understood him that that confused little boy is scared and far too scared to face realities. Same time, she shared his pain. Never did she hear him scream instead of running and hiding away from troubles.

He is the timid kind of boy and she accepts it of him. For him to yell to the top of his lungs…she felt it…it was a heartbreaking agony. Her chest hurts for him as well and for Sasuke, she began to despise that man…

Itachi.

Sakura walked up to the doctor who keeps addressing himself as 'Franco', not matter how much she wanted to yell at this person she couldn't. Being angry and hating won't solve anything. She decided to keep calm.

"Amnesia, huh..." she frowned slightly at Itachi while she glared. "Are you for real?!" she growled.

The man replied with a gentle smile; it was scary that he could still do it and a genuine one too when he was actually being scolded at a time like this. It pisses Sakura off.

"I'm sorry I don't get you. Like I said, if I have offended that boy earlier, I am terribly sorry…" the so-called Franco bowed apologetically.

"Hn! You shouldn't be apologizing to me. Do you know how long…for how long he had waited for you?" Sakura is getting impatient, losing her cool instead. "Are you so into protecting your career that you deny the existence of your own bro—?!"

Before she could finish, Suigetsu, the assistant cupped her mouth in a flash. She got stunned by his extraordinary agility and frowned at him when he began whispering to her,

"I appreciate it if you were to cooperate with me. I will personally provide answers to your questions later, not in front of Franco…"

"Ch!" she frowned.

"Sui! Stop it! It's rude to the lady!" Itachi quickly intervene. By immediate order, the silver haired man withdrew and bowed lightly in apology. "Please forgive my assistant, he is rather rash."

Sakura snorted.

"Whatever!" she began to head towards the exit. "Ochima-chan, I'll visit again you some other time."

"Okay, please bring some sweets next time," Orochimaru said in lively manner.

"And that goes for you too, Franco! I'll be back again so you better be here and not leave this country or I'll hunt you down!" Sakura glared before disappearing behind the door.

The men were momentarily silenced when Sakura left with a loud SLAM making a tremor in the room. To Orochimaru, it is absolutely normal.

"Hah! Some beast of a patient you have Orochimaru-sama and big talk," said Suigetsu. The pale man looked up to him from his reading.

"Heheh. If I were you I would not get on her nerves…" the pale doctor chuckled to his own amusement leaving Suigetsu speechless. Itachi silently stared at the door then smiled to himself and said,

"Sui…" the silver haired man turned to him. Itachi clutched his chest as he muttered next. "I think…an angel had stolen my heart…"

"Huh…?"


BROWN'S PANYA

"Mr Brown I would like to have these please!"

"Shortbread and croissant for me please."

"Be quick please Mr Brown, I am in a hurry."

"I want cheesecake and a set of fruit tarts!"

"What's taking so long?!"

Customers; they flock in and crowd the shop during peak hours. It is stressful whenever customers tend to be unreasonable and began complaining. It cannot be helped since Uncle Brown and Kiba were the only ones around.

"I am terribly sorry, sir. We are shorthanded today. Ah, I am sorry miss, please wait a moment. Thank you very much, ma'am. Please come again," said Uncle Brown with a plastered smile as he dealt with his customers. "Kiba, please bring out those sugar cookies and hand them out to the customers as complimentary."

"Yes, sir!" in a jiffy, Kiba dashed into the kitchen to retrieve them as ordered. "Geez! I can't believe Sasuke is having a good time with Sakura-chan at a busy time like this! Wait till he gets back, I'll give him a piece of my mind!" he complained.

CLING!

Ah, there goes the front door. Great, more customers… At this rate, the shop is bound to collapse with all these people in this small bakery. Kiba began to curse the Uchiha's absence at a crucial hour like this but his complaints got brushed away when he sees the little pinkette made her entrance.

She was panting and made brief glances around the shop before speaking in her cute voice,

"Sasuke-kun?" she asked. Kiba was rather surprised.

"Wasn't he with you this morning?" the boy replied as he carried a basket full of cookies ready to be taken out. He watched the little female frowned a little before she shook off her attempt to find the raven boy.

"That crybaby…" she muttered inaudibly. "Never mind him. Give me those, I'll help around." Sakura quickly took off her coat and wore an apron; Sasuke's apron which was too big for her to fit properly but it made her look extra cute.

"But Sakura-chan…"

"Hurry up, we'll talk later. Can't you see Mr Brown is working so hard? Don't slack!" she said with authoritative tones as she carried a basket full of sugar cookies with all her might.

Hey, who does she think she is?

"The one who's slacking is that useless Uchiha!" Kiba retorted.

"He isn't slacking. He's got something far more important to do now," the little rosette defended. "And as long as I am here, I'll take over his absence. Don't expect him to come back for another day or two."

Kiba scratched his head questionably as the little girl refused to provide further explanation. The minute she enters the shop, she began to boss him around and spewing nonsense;

Don't expect Sasuke to be back too soon?

What does she mean?

Kiba watched Sakura; he couldn't help but to smile at the scene where that little girl made her entrance to the front of the shop, handing out a basket of cookies, pleasing angry customers and made this dull place livelier.

She is Sasuke's angel, huh...

It was sunset by the time the shop got sold out on each and every piece of good they have. That calls for a day since Sasuke isn't around, Uncle Brown had a hard time keeping up due to old age and thanks to their cute little helper, customers were very pleased by her cute appearance.

Now, it is all peace and quiet with the deep orange rays of sunlight that could offer comfortable light into the shop to create a soothing atmosphere after a day's hard work.

Hot chocolate; Uncle Brown served his two teenagers with his special brew of cocoa and pieces of leftover meringue which Sakura couldn't get enough on. It isn't too sweet and gobbling it whole is fun when it began to melt.

"Haha. Kids always like these. Haha!" Uncle Brown chuckled; kids he said, Sakura got a little embarrassed. "Oh, I almost forgot. Wait here, I'll get you something special."

It took him minutes before the old confectioner returned to the front with pieces of cake. He set them on the table; it has slightly burnt top which made it smelled good and there were colourful mix of nuts, cherries and raisins that made it up.

"Wow! What is this…?" Sakura said as she admiringly stared.

"You'll know when you try it! It's Uncle Brown's specialty!" Kiba gobbled up a fork full of the cake. Sakura enthusiastically dug in the same and shoved it into her mouth.

"….?!"

In silence she bit the tip of her fork, holding her cheek when the burst of flavor from the cake she contained in her mouth dominated her taste buds. Its texture is so soft that it could melt off. With the slightly burnt top that creates a wonderful aroma that blends with the sweetness of the cake accompanied by nuts and cherries.

And.

And!

The most important of all where the hidden star that only the tongue could identify its presence;

Rum.

"It's rum cake…!" Sakura was in a spontaneous mix of excitement and surprise.

What pleasantry this is!

And it is her first time to have ever eaten rum cake this delicious; so typical and old style just like Uncle Brown. He really is a great confectioner Sakura had to admit and better than her own confectioner at home.

It is so good that she could not get enough from one piece and it saddens her when she successfully emptied her plate within seconds. And when she tried asking for seconds, Uncle Brown chuckled and patted her head.

"I am glad you liked it but sorry, I didn't make much so some other time alright, my dear…"

"Hmm…If you sell this in the shop for Christmas, I bet customers will love it!" Sakura said. Uncle Brown laughed.

"Haha. Not anymore, my dear…Not anymore…" the old confectioner made himself sound sad whenever he mentioned it and Kiba stayed silent. Their odd reaction perked Sakura's thoughts.

Is it because of Sasuke.

Speaking about him…

"Mr Brown…there's something I got to say…" she hesitated, her pausing gained attention from both men in the room. "It's about Sasuke-kun's brother…"

Uncle Brown's head perked.

"I-Itachi…?!"

Kiba listened with interest as well. Sakura took her time to explain their fateful encounter earlier this morning and that Sasuke went missing after. Uncle Brown didn't seem to react much and took her story calmly; to him, Sasuke's behavior is rather natural and to Sakura this isn't her first either.

Everyone in this shared room took a momentary pause of silence before Uncle Brown sighed loudly as he slumped in his high stool, holding his hot beverage in hand he began to stare at the floor.

"Itachi…he is alive…" he smiled weakly. "That's good…That's good…" nodding, he began to shed tears of relief.

"Amnesia…I can imagine how Sasuke would feel…" Kiba sighed as his shoulders slumped. "He waited until he gave in…sigh…Now that his brother is around and lost his memories…He would definitely be very sad."

Even Kiba could understand.

This bakery and its people that live along with it is Sasuke's family. For sure they understood the raven boy's feelings. Sakura turned silent as she stared at her own drink; it swirled and steamed.

Things are getting complicated.

But then Kiba shot up from his seat and tried to exit the store, Uncle Brown stopped him.

"I just need to put some sense into that guy! He's being too emotional!" the animal lover snarled.

"Leave him, Sasuke will come back when he's done what needs to be done…" the old confectioner sipped his tea. "That boy, he's too emotional and prideful to let others see him cry… Let him cry alone, Kiba…"

The air has gotten thick and stifling in this gathering tension where the trio sat in silence again before Sakura set her mug down onto the counter then said,

"Mr Brown," she began. "If you don't mind, in Sasuke's absence, I want to help in the shop. So please teach me…"

The old confectioner was taken aback by temporary surprise before he began laughing out loud, his larger rough hand ruffling her fluffy pink hair messy. Sakura giggled at the warm and ticklish feeling of it.

"Haha! Of course! Of course! I'd be more than happy to. Haha!" he patted. "Don't you think she will make a fine daughter, Kiba? Haha!"

Sakura blushed giggling.

"Man, Uncle Brown. Are you that eager…?" Kiba sighed helplessly.

"Of course! Aren't you Sakura-chan?" Uncle Brown winked playfully. Sakura giggled merrily.

She might sound silly but if she got the chance and if Sasuke were to inherit Brown's, she would love to help out the shop with him in the future. There won't be piles of documents to read or countless meetings to attend but just hang around and help out in this tacky little bakery.

Yeah…It is simple life.

Cleaning bread crumbs off the shelves, Sakura smiled to herself when she gazed out of the shop's window watching the retiring sun where the sky dimmed and painted with tints of blue and pink.

Sun down is so soothing and she began to wonder where Sasuke might be now or what is he doing or did he take care of himself.

She wouldn't know neither did she attempted to search for him when Uncle Brown meant to leave him, giving him space and all she have to do is wait.

Guess that is the best thing to do.

As promised, every day after school she would make her trip to Brown's with Kiba on his bike which it has become one of her traveling favourites. By the afternoon she got to the shop, it is crowded like any usual day and such crowding would last for hours before she got to settle down for breaks. And during those breaks, Uncle Brown would whip up a quick snack to encourage everyone; it's either tasty sandwiches or savoury sweets he prepared which they all enjoyed together in the back alley.

"Alright! Shall we start our lessons?" Uncle Brown dusted biscuit crumbs off his lap as he got up from his seat and head back into the kitchen.

"Um!" the little female nodded energetically; she is excited when the old confectioner is willing to teach her a few tricks of his trade.

Quickly she followed him in and watched him set a few simple ingredients onto the table. Subsequently, he rolled up his sleeves and began pouring some flour into the mixing bowl.

"Right, now watch closely how I do it," he said and his hands began to work with skill.

Although his hands were rough and wrinkled, grace never left his wonderful hands; a similar pair of hands Sakura admired so much about that raven haired boy.

'Sasuke…' her head chanted that beloved name.

"Okay, it's done. Next, you'll flatten the dough with a rolling pin and make shapes out of it!" Uncle Brown carefully demonstrated.

"Wow!" Sakura eyed fascinatingly. "But…what are we making?"

"Sugar cookies," the elderly man smiled then playfully whispered. "I bet if Sakura-chan could make them when Sasuke comes home, he'll be delighted."

Uncle Brown is such a father figure and there is so much of love in him to share. Sakura felt envious about Sasuke.

"Um! I'll do my best!"

And so the days begin to roll by…one after another…everyday…


RIIIIIIIIIIINNNNNGGGGG!

Ah! The last bell.

"Stand!" everyone followed the class rep's lead, standing. "Bow!"

Finally, school's over for today; it is the happiest time of the day! Students gathered themselves in groups to indulge in merry chattering, some hurried for practices for sports day practice and some went home.

It is a whole new level of noise after the last period.

'So noisy…' Sakura closed the book she managed to finish in time before leaving. 'So boring…' she complained innerly again before she stole her final glance over the seat on her right.

It is empty.

Her eyes saddened and all she could was mentally sigh.

How has it been since Sasuke ran off without a word from the doctor's office?

Sakura lost count the hours she waited but never mind that, she was too preoccupied by her cookie-making and she doesn't seem to be improving much; mistaking salt for sugar, burning her cookies or having a 'distinguished' flavor…

Hmm…so that concludes; Haruno Sakura is talentless in the kitchen.

She sighed. But that doesn't mean she is going to give in!

But. But!

She could not escape the fact that she is lonely without Sasuke; she tightly hugged her book trying to search for that same company that she misses so much.

"Sakura-chan! You're on sweeping duty today," the class rep derailed her chain of thoughts.

"Okay," the little pinkette replied. Obediently, she hopped down from her chair and took a broom.

Peeking over her shoulder, she sees one of her male classmates silently cleaning at the other end of the classroom; he is on window and board duty today which was supposed to be Sasuke's. The boy smiled at her when he caught her looking at him and that after, it is back to silence between them.

Cleaning duty…it isn't as fun it usually was.

There were no giggles, no laughter, no Sasuke-kun.

Sakura wish to see his endless blushing, run her fingers though his thick dark hair, listen to his shuddering habits and warm up to his solid embrace; all this crushing loneliness and suffocating desire…she really misses him so much that she is growing tired of waiting for his return.

How long will he heartlessly continue to make her wait?!

"Stupid Uchiha! Where have you run off to?!" stomped her feet she mumbled angrily, holding back her tears.

Sweepsweepsweepsweepsweepsweepsweep!

"Achoo! Cough! Cough! What the heck is going on?! It's so dusty!" Karin appeared from the door and Ino too; aren't they supposed to go home? What are they doing here? "How heartless of you, Ino said to pick you up for practice! So be grateful."

"Sorry, I can't today…" Sakura disappointedly apologized.

"Again?!" Karin blurt loudly. "It has been who-know-how-long you've skipped practice. Reminder, sports day is only days away!"

"I'm sorry…I don't mind quitting if it's getting inconvenient…" said the pink haired female.

It angers the blondie whenever Sakura easily speaks of giving up but she kept her cool. She watched the little female did poorly in her sweeping duty; it's either she is too much of a princess to do cleaning or she is out of the mood.

Look that little pinkette is practically missing every spot!

It's frustrating to watch her clumsy work. Ino quickly took over.

"You do it this way," said the blonde, demonstrating. Sakura quietly watched.

"I am useless aren't I…" the rosette said muttering.

"I think it is okay…" Ino replied. "A human isn't capable in everything though. That's why we tend to rely on someone else."

"Then what should I do to be of help?" Sakura asked with her eyes staring into Ino's sapphires, desperately searching for an answer.

"Well…Help out, I guess…" the blondie shrugged her shoulders being unsure. "Or what my dad usually says; be a flower."

Sakura blinked, clueless.

"You know…what a flower does. They uselessly decorate themselves in a vase by a corner!" Ino rolled her eyes; to think those words were coming from a florist. "But if you look again, you'll actually feel the difference with and without out it."

"Argh, just get to the point Ino your philosophy is far too hard to understand!" Karin snorted as she sat aside with crossed legs.

"Ah, shut up, Karin. I'm lecturing this bonehead here," bonehead? If Ino isn't a friend, Sakura would have given her a piece of her Hardcover Special. "Sheesh! What I am trying to say is that; sometimes you needn't do anything but support someone with all your heart! Get it? Wait, flowers have no hearts…"

"You don't make sense as always, Ino…" Karin sighed at the blonde.

"Haha! True! Hahaha!" Sakura laughed brightly then smiled. "Thanks Ino, Karin. I think know what I should do now…"

Knock knock.

Just in time, Kiba appeared at the door; he must have waited long enough to get the little female in person.

"Sakura-chan, are you done? Uncle Brown's waiting at the shop," he said. Sakura nodded and began leaving but stopped at the door.

"Ino, Karin. I won't quit but please give me another day or two. I promise to do my best after I sort things out," and earned herself smiles from her friends. "Oh and please sweep the corners as well and put out the trash out for me, okay. Thank you!"

The little pinkette finally disappeared away.

"Yeah, yea—H-Hey!" Ino stomped her feet angrily. "That pinky! She tricked me into doing her duties!"

"Serves you right for being stupid, Ino…" Karin snickered.


Along with Kiba, the little pink haired female exited the school building and 'What a beautiful day!' is the first thing that crossed her mind.

Sakura allowed a smile to grace her lips; she felt refreshed stepping out into the open air after spending many stale hours in class and she also felt a spark in her, so wonderful that it makes her feel alive again.

Thanks to Ino, her words rekindled her confidence; Sakura's confidence to continue to believe what she intended to do. She may not be too useful to in the shop neither she could solve much of Sasuke's problems but at least, the very least, let her stay by his side…

Like a flower that quietly sits and wait and cheers for that person.

At least, when he comes home…she is there waiting for him, remind him of home and hope.

'Yeah…' Sakura nodded to herself as she got onto the back of Kiba's bicycle and quickly they speed away and into the metropolitan where there are countless of people everywhere.

Where is that boy?

She began wondering as she rode with Kiba on his steady two wheeled passing by busy people.

Her eyes could not avoid the fact that it began wandering around searching for Sasuke in hopes she might spot him among the crowd. Of course, that would be impossible but if she were to assign her personal search party that would be different…but…she wouldn't do that…

No matter how much she wished for Sasuke to come home soon, Uncle Brown didn't intervene and believed his return after that boy had sort things out on his own…

Some matters should best be left done by the man himself, Uncle Brown said the other day. And so, Sakura too would do the same, quietly and patiently she will sit at the front door to greet that raven boy when he comes back…

And as his lover, she has her duty wait.

Sakura chuckled to herself inaudibly, gazing into the grey sky despite it is threatening to rain she could still bring out a smile from the heart. This is what it means to truly to be in love.

Like how it was when her mommy waited for daddy; no matter how long even when she was in her sick bed until she breathed her last…she waited but didn't get to see her lover in the end…

It was a sad and unfortunate love but it still had its own beauty…

"Sakura-chan, hold on tight. I am going to take a shortcut!"

Sakura quickly fastened her grip on Kiba before he took a thrill travelling in narrow alleyways, got chased by dogs and as the skies rumbled furiously they began to race against time before the rain.

Drip. Drop. Drip. Drop.

The cheeky Haruno giggled when the rain started to rain little droplets; isn't this fun? Then she began to wonder again where Sasuke is now…Is he under this same rain as she is? Will he catch a cold? Did he take care of himself?

She couldn't help suppress the worry that brought chill to her skin.

Really…Really….Really…The rain is exceptionally cold without Sasuke and she could not help but to wonder,

'Sasuke-kun...are you crying alone again…?'

By the time she returned to reality, the backdoor of Brown's already entered her field of vision. Kiba peddled faster when the rain got heavier by the minute and the two quickly dashed into the building just in time before the rain poured uncontrollably.

"Uncle Brown! We're back!" Kiba said.

"Mr Brown! We're back!" Sakura said next.

And they removed their coats, brushed off the rain water and hung them away. It is so cold when the wetness gets to their skin quickly they snuggled near those hot ovens to warm up a bit.

Aaahhh, better…

"Aa! You two, welcome back!" Uncle Brown peeked into the kitchen from the front counter. He called Sakura over to him and he whispered into her ear when she was close enough. "Whisper…whisper…whisper…"

"…..?!" Sakura's emeralds glowed as she perked by the news. "R-Really…?" the nod coming from the elderly reassured her feelings; she cupped her mouth due to her swelling emotions.

"Go, Sakura-chan…" he winked at her.

"Um…!" she fought tears of joy from spilling in front of Kiba.

The animal lover stared at the secretive duo as he continued to stand by the oven while he chewed on some jerky he brought with him.

"Kiba could you help me out here a bit," it was an order despite he is curious he obediently followed Uncle Brown to the front of the shop.

Now that Sakura is left alone, she could not help but to hurry.

Her short legs took her as fast as she could, running out of the kitchen and into a small hallway and at the end of it, there was That door. It was quite a while since she last visited this place.

The lights were on she noticed by the foot of the door and without the slightest hint of hesitation she grabbed for the knob and turned it as she remembered it.

Her heart skipped and her chest contracted nervously when she pushed open; little by little the interior came to sight, her eyes flinched before she adapt to the bright lighting then finally she caught sight of Him…

With messy blankets shoved aside, there He laid in care less manner.

Sasuke is back.

Closed the door behind her, she didn't care if the old flooring squeaked noisily at her every pace all she wanted is to embrace that sleeping boy. She didn't care either if his back is facing her and his head buried into the pillow all she wanted is to hold him dear.

As much as she could she wrapped her arms around Sasuke and surrendered herself to tears.

She missed him so.

Days it has been and to her it was far too long.

Her chest is heavy and sour and before she knew it tears were spilling uncontrollably, soaking Sasuke's shirt wet. She realized that the boy isn't asleep but softly weeping in his sheets.

He was crying alone again, right she was about him…

"Sasuke-kun…" she wiped tears of her own when she could only partly see his buried face. "Sasuke-kun…" she called him again and tried to close up to him but he refused by hiding away again.

This boy; he never changes. Shy and soft as always.

"Sasuke-kun…Sasuke-kun!" she called over and over again but the boy refused to let her look at him. Even when she attempted by kissing his most sensitive spot in the neck, he still refused to turn around.

What's wrong with him?

After the waiting she did and he remained stubborn. The little female stomped her feet in dissatisfaction before she ran out of the room.

Sasuke could hear her noisy footing as she ran returning in a jiffy.

"Sasuke-kun, look," the Uchiha remained motionless to her calling;

Oh, so he is being stubborn, eh… If he thinks he could best Haruno Sakura, he is so wrong!

"Uchiha Sasuke can't you take a look at this sugar cookie I've made?! Do you know how much effort I've put in? Do you know how many hours it has been since I've waited patiently for you? I've never, NEVER been put to wait if it isn't for you I wouldn't and now…now…sniff…y-you wouldn't even look at m-me…sniff…"

Dear, oh, dear…all that guilt suddenly washed over him by the sound of her sniffling, making his heart cringe; what have he done? To make his dearest cry, kept her waiting sadly, he had been selfishly ignorant towards those around him who cared for him especially the kind Uncle Brown.

It was so childish of him.

Peeking out from the edge of his right eye, there he saw his beloved rosette making a sad face while she held a piece of cookie with both hands. He was cruel to her. What sort of man he was…must be the worst.

Slowly, he pushed himself up. It is about time he stop sulking…

Sakura silently watched him; she had never seen him in such bad shape before where he trembled as he struggled to get into proper position and when he finally did, he hunched sitting on the edge of his bed.

He must have not eaten anything since. His hair is messy in all places and long bangs covering his face. His shirt hung loosely showing a great deal of weight he had lost and there were stubbles growing out of his face. It's normal since he didn't get to groom himself for days.

And last not least, his eyes were red and puffy.

He must have cried a lot; without someone by his side, he must have bawled his eyes out in somewhere nobody knew. He cried alone.

"Sasu—"

Sakura's lips paused when the shaky hands of the boy reached out for hers; it was large like she remembers it but too cold to make memory. Gentle as always, Sasuke pulled her occupied hands closer to him and weakly he bent forward to take a bite out of her sugar cookie.

She heard him crunched down the hard texture of her sweet cake. Again, tears escaped her which Sasuke wiped them away from her cheeks.

Their eyes met; those obsidians didn't give out its brilliant sparkle like it used to but showed emotional exhaustion. Sakura could not be any more thankful than this his return is all that she need. Knowing his wounded soul would not recover too soon, at least, he is back.

And then, the minute his voice came,

"It's salty, Sakura-chan…," the way he forced a crooked one-sided smile; her heart stirred in thick emotion.

"Haha…Haha…I guess I mixed up again…sniff…Haha…" her tears happily escaped her.

"But…it's still good…" he said in weak deep voice. "Whatever you make…is good…" he nodded lightly before he helped himself to the whole of her cookie.

Despite it is salty and hard, Sasuke gladly chomped down every bit of it while he nodded and praised how good it was. This is how it feels to eat something made by the hands of a beloved someone. He nodded again and again at every crunchy bite.

He then watched Sakura rushed over to the other side of his room, recklessly stood on something she found nearby to elevate her height and reach out to something on his wall. Forcefully tore down a piece of paper.

Not just any paper…It was that old picture from his childhood.

Sasuke remembered it clearly as if it was yesterday; that picture he and his brother drew together, side by side they laid on the same bed in this same room and despite Itachi was young his handwriting was beautiful among the rest of the kids.

Itachi is a clever and talented brother Sasuke remembers and so was his kindness…

That gush of piling memories; why did Sakura make him recall all the wonderful times of that heartless person when he dare leave Brown's without another word and lose his memories when they meet.

Standing there in front of him, Sakura eagerly showed it to him and with those beautiful vigorous greens that could speak to him, she said,

"Look at this Sasuke-kun…" initially. "It's time to fulfill your promise!"

What's this…?

Sasuke's eyes widen at the pink haired female's speech; he was utterly surprised at the fact she knew about a little about his childhood and he bet it was Uncle Brown's loose mouth for sure.

"Ch! L-Like I care…" he turned his head away, avoiding her.

"Sasuke-kun, it is time to fulfill your promise!" in her child-like behavior, Sakura is persistent and it is getting annoying.

Why is she being so nosy?

Why can't she just leave him alone?

Why is she taking sides with Itachi when it was him who left in the first place?!

"No, I won't…" he muttered.

"Yes, you will! Promises are meant to be kept!"

"Enough Sakura!" he dropped the suffix in her name as he snapped angrily. "I won't do it. Ever. For the sake of someone who is heartless and cold to leave his little brother! And it was him who broke our promise!"

"How would you know he really left you and broke that promise? You didn't even ask what happened to him and how did he lost his memories! He might be innocent!" Sakura fought back.

"You said it; he lost his memories. Of course he'd be innocent!"

Sasuke…

Sakura could not blame him for being angry, no, he is confused; he is trapped in his own crossroad of emotions. Even when he knew how he should feel towards the present Itachi, he obstinately denied it due to his pride as an Uchiha. Wishing to hate someone when by nature he couldn't…

He is fickle-minded as always.

Sakura let out a smile.

She just knew the raven boy all too well.

With grace, Sakura stepped forth towards the reluctant male. Sasuke quickly directed his gaze away from meeting those enchanted emeralds that has the power to cast him timid and regretful for his bad temper. And the gentle touch of her small hand made him jerk fearfully.

"Look at me Sasuke-kun…" it was the voice of an angel; so soothing and forgiving.

But Sasuke refused to give in as he remained looking away. He hated this; he disliked the fact whenever their minds clash. He wished to listen to her but he could not accept the fact that he had to take the first step to forgive Itachi.

It was Itachi's fault!

Why should he forgive him first without him begging for it?!

"It's okay if you're going to keep being stubborn but I still want you to listen," slightly whispering, Sakura initiated. "I don't know everything about what you've gone though in the past…but I know that if you can still get the chance to cherish someone in the future, I think you're lucky…"

Sasuke didn't care to turn around as he blankly stared at a corner of his room as he intake whatever his little female has to say. He is lucky she said…in what way…? He didn't like it but refrained himself from arguing.

"It doesn't matter if Itachi has forgotten all about you…but you haven't. Although Itachi has forgotten all about the promises he had made…but you haven't. It doesn't matter if you are the only one who fulfills it because you're his family. He needs you. No one knows except you, Sasuke-kun…" Sakura's grip tightened as she shook the raven's trying to get his attention.

"Your big brother is out there. Alive. Aren't you thankful? Aren't you glad that you could still keep that promise for the both of your sakes? Whereas I couldn't…because mommy died before I could bring daddy home…!" Sasuke closed his eyes listening to her saddened voice as she spoke and shook his hand vigorously; finally, he gave in and turned to see Sakura's reddened eyes as she cried.

Darn it.

He made her cry again. She cried for his sake. She wanted the best for their brotherhood because she wants him to be happy.

She pitied him?

"I hate him, Sakura-chan…I hate him…" Sasuke whispered in monotone.

"No you don't. You just loved him too much," he was taken aback when her eyes brimmed with confidence as she made that statement. "If you hate him, you wouldn't have waited. You patiently waited for Itachi's return no matter how long it will take and as long as Brown's still remained, you still have hope. That's why you couldn't bear to see it sold!"

Sasuke couldn't be more mentally exhausted; she pierced him, pried him and read him clear like an open book. He could no longer keep up in his masquerade when this little female knew him far too well and better than himself. He is tired of running away from the truths that he tried burying with lies.

He hated Itachi yet he couldn't let go those memories that his big brother sheltered him when they struggled through homeless days. And when life has gotten better when Uncle Brown took them in, Itachi disappeared…

On the night before Christmas.

Sasuke remembered how he waited by the chilly window for Itachi when he said he would be out a while; patiently he did and long enough for his rum cake that he made for Christmas went cold…and expired…and ended up in the trash.

It was so long ago.

Yet by the words of this pink haired female that ignited a new flame in him; it was warmer and loving. The way she wrapped her arms around his waist as she snuggled close to him in an embrace and with her head on his chest.

"You're too kind Sasuke-kun…that's why you can never hate anyone but run away with lies in your mouth…" she gazed up to him with glazed eyes and a brilliant smile; it was confidence that she had in her. "Let's be honest once in a while, Sasuke-kun…"

The call of his name and the voice she used to utter it made her sound as if she knew him for too long till it was scary and turned him surrendering. She is so scary…

It seems Haruno Sakura is hard to beat and never.

Sasuke cradled the girl in his arms, held her close as he buried himself in their embrace as she planted a kiss on his neck. He looked at her after parting from their closeness and subsequently she kissed him again on his cheek.

They need no words to express their affection even if by exchanging glances with one other tells so much more. Sasuke held her hand when she touched his cheek before she began giggling.

"Haha. That tickles, Sasuke-kun," she giggled more when her sensitive fingers detected the prickly sensation of his untidy jawline and it gave him the reason to tease her further.

"Ticklish, huh…What do you say if I grow a moustache? Manly isn't it?" he joked.

"Haha. I can imagine that you might look like Mr Brown by then," she laughed.

Sasuke laughed along with her, holding her in his arm they share this joyous moment together before they heard Kiba's voice and his loud footsteps that came running. The Inuzuka boy pounced onto the two and threw out a big hug.

"K-Kiba! Get off, you're heavy!" Sasuke blushed shyly. Sandwiched between both boys Sakura giggled.

"You! Y-o-u! Uchiha Sasuke where the heck have you been?! We were worried sick!" Kiba yelled into the raven boy's face. Argh, the saliva! "Uncle Brown was so worried he couldn't eat properly! Sakura-chan worked so hard at the shop! And I was terribly worried too!"

That boy is clinging onto the Uchiha like an animal and he does smell like one too! Did he ever shower properly? Stay away! Stay away it stinks Kiba!

"You? Really…" Sasuke snorted at his pal, disbelieving but no doubt Kiba was.

They were friends like who-knows-how long it has been and even shared embarrassing secrets where Kiba snacked on dog biscuits and find it yummy.

Yeah, that Inuzuka is a handful sometimes but still fun to hang out with.

Last but not least, Uncle Brown finally showed up at the door waving his ladle. Surely he must have whipped up something good when the wonderful aroma is coming from the kitchen.

"Hey kiddos, come on out. I've made sandwiches and soup, it's your favourite my boy, wild mushroom," said Uncle Brown referring to the sloppy raven. Sasuke thanked him. "Oh, you might wanna take a shower and change before you eat. Sakura-chan, you might wanna make it snappy for him. Hoho!"

"U-U-Uncle!" the Uchiha blushed embarrassingly; that old man, he always tease him whenever, wherever. But this is so like him and this…is home.

Yeah, this is…

"S-Sakura-chan…what are you doing…?" Sasuke curiously blinked at the little female when she began rummaging in his closet.

"What else, aren't you going to take a bath? I'll help you!" she said joyfully, preparing a set of clothes. "Ooooo! What's this?! A G-String!" her eyes sparkled naughtily at her discovery.

"AAAAA!" Sasuke's face burned as bright and red as his…ahem…extraordinary underwear, quickly he snatched it back and stuffed it into the back of his drawer. "S-S-Sakura-chan y-you're not s-supposed to meddle in a m-man's closet!" shuddering he barred the cheeky little girl from messing around any further.

"Hehe! I didn't know you had such exquisite tastes, Sasuke-kun. Hehe…" she giggled.

Of course not! It's that sneaky old confectioner! His old man must have stuffed it in when he wasn't in his room. What else did he stuff? Sasuke covered his face for being too embarrassed to look at the female before him as she giggled endlessly at him.

"It's cute. I like it!" she cheekily said. "Wear it Sasuke-kun!"

Heavens…her child-like features is so deceiving sometimes and he had forgotten that she is actually a teenager.

"N-No way!"

"Yes!"

"N-No!"

"Yes! I bet you'll look good in it!" Naughty girl naughty! She ought to watch out for her tongue in the presence of a man or else…

Without a word, Sasuke pushed the little female onto the bed and pinned her down, his hair dangled messily as he towered over her. Silence drew over them and he could see that Sakura is rather surprised by his sudden attack but smiled at him without a word. She looked at him with those confident gems that shimmered under the light.

Is she that positive that he'll do nothing to her?

How innocent of her and the way her long wavy hair splayed unruly while she lay smiling like that, Sasuke's heart galloped and soon loud enough to hear it in his own ears as it burned intensely in embarrassment.

Gosh, he couldn't look at her anymore or else…it would be bad; he might not be able to suppress his hormones but he couldn't just leave like this; passionately, he swooped in for a kiss at least.

"Sakura-chan, you must never say such naughty things in front of a man. It's dangerous…" he smirked.

"Because I know it's you, Sasuke-kun…" she smiled sweetly. "Ooo! What's this? One Thousand ways to—"

"AAAA!" Sasuke embarrassedly snatched the book away from her hands. Seriously, how did she find IT?! "Sakura-chan could you please leave the room, I want to change."

"Just change already. Don't be shy!"

"Please Sakura-chan!" he is turning redder by the minute, Sakura is picking up a bad habit in teasing him too much when he is this reactive. How cute.

"You really don't need my help, Sasuke-kun?" she stopped at the door as she asked teasingly.

"N-NO!"

Sakura giggled with satisfaction.


"Hmm hmm hmm! Hmm hmm hmm! Hmm hmm hmm hmm hmm!" Sakura hummed merry tunes to herself as she happily skipped to class.

"I see someone is in good mood today."

That voice; Sakura turned around greet her two girlfriends who approached her. They are heading in the same direction since they were all in the same class.

"Ino. Karin. Good morning!" Sakura sounded so happy.

"Something good definitely happened. What? Sasuke-kun's back already?" Karin made her guess and she is right.

"Um! He's currently at home."

Sakura nodded delightfully, the two girls were happy for her as they hugged each other. It is a wonderful moment to share; no doubt Sakura felt thankful that the raven boy is back and she bet things will be normal again.

Well, that was what she thought…

"Oh, I made cookies!" Sakura quickly opened a bag of cookies she packed this earlier morning. "Try some Karin, Ino."

"W-o-w! Miss Princess made cookies, I can't believe it!" Karin laughed then took a piece and playfully examined it just to tease the little female.

"Now, now Karin, don't be so mean," said Ino. "I think Sakura-chan's cookies would taste great. It looks nice too!" Aww, the blondie's the best, she complimented before she tried.

"Not so fast. I, Karin will put this cookie to the test!" the scarlet female boldly took a bite.

C-R-U-N-C-H!

"OUCH! What is this thing?! It's so hard!" Karin burst out loud rubbing her cheek where her sore teeth ached.

"Uhm…Sakura-chan…are you sure this is a cookie?" Ino doubtfully asked but before she could get an answer someone took her cookie off her hand from behind. It startled goldilocks and turned around to find a stranger.

C-R-U-N-C-H!

Sakura gasped with widen eyes when she sees that familiar person who began munching on her little masterpiece. That smile, that jet black hair and eyes and that ponytail.

"Ita—Franco?!" the little Haruno addressed in utmost surprise. She rushed up to him as he chomped down ever last bit of her rocky biscuit.

The older Uchiha didn't answer right away until he finished his business he had in his mouth and Sakura listens to him crunch loudly. After he is done, he smiled,

"It sure is tasty for a cookie," he shyly chuckled at the end of his compliment. Just like Sasuke, he is kind and had a similar character of being easily embarrassed.

Ino and Karin were practically speechless when they saw the identical man to Sasuke and no doubt they begin to suspect Itachi's brotherly relation. It is obvious to someone who had similar facial outlook despite the long hair and outstanding older feature.

"What are you doing here, Franco?" Sakura wisely addresses the man before her. He lightly chuckled at her before replying. What's his problem? What is it that he finds her amusing?

"I am going to pay a visit to my teacher before I leave for France again," he said in a gentleman's speech which suited him well when he wears such neat suits and his being is well groomed in every way.

Truly a professional as a doctor.

"Teacher?" Sakura repeated questionably. "You're leaving?!" it surprises her more when she could not help but to over react. Itachi nodded.

"Of course, there are patients waiting for me back there. I wasn't supposed to leave for long and I should hurry back," his words were kind; he has a great sense of duty of who he is.

Itachi and Sasuke; these two are too alike.

But this isn't the time for him to be leaving, not until the two brothers get to meet, not until Itachi remembers Sasuke. Sakura panicked when she turned clueless not knowing what to do to prevent this. Desperately she clung onto Itachi's neat suit.

"Wait you can't leave like that! Not until—" before she get to finish, the older Uchiha held her hand in gentleness as he lowered himself to her level.

At similar height, they get to see eye to eye at each other. Sakura could not be more mesmerized by those obsidians that she had grown to love so much and knowing these weren't Sasuke's, she could not help but to drown in it.

"Of course I have never forgotten about you. That is why I decided to take you to France with me, Sakura."

Eh…?

Sakura grew speechless.

This is a joke right? Right?

"If you flirt, I'll slap you…" Sakura bluntly said.

"Never, little miss, not to you. I've never met someone as gorgeous as you," Itachi kissed Sakura by the hand.

SLAP!

Merciless as ever, Sakura…

"Hmph! Here I thought I'd be a little more lenient towards you just because you lost your memory," the little female snorted. "If you have time to waste flirting, why not visit your brother as well!"

"Big brother? He's in France and why should I visit him when I get to see him almost every day?" Itachi picked himself up from the floor; he got slapped hard till he fell on his bottom and dusted himself into proper manner.

Ugh…Sakura finds this guy is too gentlemanly.

"What the… Big brother?!" Sakura got startled. "Alright mister, it is about time to jog some memory out of you! I can't stand Sasuke being treated so cruelly like this!" she stomped her feet angrily.

"What are you talking about?" Itachi raised a questioning brow. "Sasuke…?"

"Don't you remember him?" she grabbed hold of his sleeve. "Come on, you've got to remember. He's your younger brother; Sasuke!"

"Sasuke…?" the ponytail male paused with startle in his eyes. "Sasu…ke… Sasuke…Sa…suke…Sasuke…Sasuke…"

He began repeating in his murmurs as he stared at Sakura, no, he is staring through her as he does his best searching deep in the back of his mind. That's it, if Sakura were to help him recall, Itachi might remember a thing or two! Yes!

"Yes, yes and Sasuke-kun makes wonderful cookies and cakes so does Mr Brown too!" Sakura quickly added.

"..." there was a long pause as those confused black orb's of Itachi's began desperately searching for a hint. "...cake...rum..."

Rum cake!

Is he starting to remember?

Even if it was the slightest, it made Sakura's heart race with hope and joy. This would be wonderful news, if Itachi could just remember even if it was only that promised rum cake between the brothers. But,

"Ugh! Agh!" Itachi held his head as it ached painfully.

The little female quickly ran up to him. Perhaps she shouldn't have forced him too much and it seems that the pain grew stronger when he went down to his knees.

Karin and Ino rushed over as well in concern.

"I think we should take him to the infirmary," said Ino in the most logical way. Sakura nodded.

"But we can't carry him, he's too heavy!" Karin complained.

"FRANCO! WHERE THE HELL ARE YOU?!" the voice of another male echoed throughout the whole corridor as he searched.

Sakura definitely recognize that light haired male who happens to be Itachi's assistant.

"Hey, you! Over here!" the little female called out to Suigetsu, in a flash he went up to her like an athlete, fast.

"What the? What happened to you Franco?!" Suigetsu crouched to the silent Itachi who tried to endure the pain in his head. "Oi, answer me. What's wrong?" he shook the raven male by his shoulder roughly.

"Stop it!" Karin hit the inconsiderate male by the head. "Can't you see he is in pain?! Don't just stupidly stay there, help him to the infirmary!" she scolded in the bossiest way.


PRINCIPAL'S OFFICE – TSUNADE

Okay…it is the principal's office alright.

Yes, it is the principal's office.

The name on that metal plaque outside the door clearly shows who occupies this particular room.

Tsunade;

Konoha High School head mistress is well known for her medical practices, one of the reasons that she's an extremely busy woman and always had Shizune to substitute her during her absence. Also known for her bossiness and a fearsome principal among all other principals around the country, rumour has it that she was particularly nominated by the Haruno family…which is true…

But…why the principal's office…?

Thanks to Suigetsu who single-handedly carried Itachi here instead of the infirmary believing that Tsunade would be of a better option and since they were here to pay her a visit as Itachi said earlier so this is a wise choice?

Whatever…

"I can't believe it…After so many years and the first thing you came to me just to treat your headache? You're pathetic Franco!" Tsunade threw herself on her chair being a little irritated.

Itachi smiled apologetically. Suigetsu stood beside him smiling.

Sakura quietly observed; it seems that Itachi and Suigetsu were also close acquaintances with Tsunade in the medical field. Recalling what Itachi mentioned that he was here to visit his teacher which definitely he refers to Tsunade.

"And you too, Suigetsu! Who do you take me for I am currently the principal of this school, show some consideration. And don't you dare run, screaming my name in the hallway it is a bad example to my students!"

When Tsunade is pissed, she gets very pissed!

"Hehe! Habits hardly change, eh…" Suigetsu scratched the nape of his neck sheepishly.

Tsunade snorted at him before she notices the little female that she almost neglected. Sakura bowed respectfully at her and she returned a short curt nod in acknowledgement.

"You must be Haruno Sakura," the principal began. "I almost couldn't recognize you. Though I must admit I was a little surprised to see you remain small as always, to think that stupid Orochimaru would fail…" she snorted again.

"No, he didn't. He helped a lot and I can say I am growing well…" Sakura smiled. Tsunade chuckled throatily.

"And very much like Sasha too…" the elderly woman smiled, recalling memories.

"You knew my mommy?" Sakura sounded as if it was the first she heard Tsunade's claim.

"Of course, we go way back…Time passes quickly, huh…" Tsunade sighed. "I apologize that I wasn't able to greet you in person when you joined Konoha, I hope you weren't bothered by any troubles?"

Sakura nodded vehemently to Tsunade's surprise.

"Yes there is," the little female directed her index finger to the male beside her; Itachi. "Tsunade-sama, I believe in your expertise in medic that you can cure this person's amnesia!"

Again that little female's words are able to take the elderly woman by surprise and Sakura's absolute attitude brought Tsunade chuckling in amusement.

"Haha! You really are one stunning child, Sakura."

"Please Tsunade-sama, I am willing to do anything or pay any amount you wish so name your price as long as this man gets his memories back!" Sakura frowned a little; she is serious, Tsunade knows and those big green eyes were really something.

"Hey, didn't I tell you to be patient?" in a flash, Suigetsu forcefully cupped little female's mouth who he think is noisy as he whispered threateningly.

"Sui!" Itachi shot a glare at his rude assistant.

Sakura slapped Suigetsu's hand off her and glared dangerously at him for being impudent towards her.

"This cannot wait! There is no time!" said Sakura desperately and it pisses off the light haired male much.

Roughly, he grabbed Sakura by her delicate arm and intended to drag her out of the room with him. Itachi shot up from his seat,

"Sui! What are you doing?!"

"I am going to beat some sense into this brat. You stay here Franco, I'll be back later. So chat with Tsunade-sama!" at that, Suigetsu slammed the door shut behind him.


Angrily, Suigetsu pulled the reluctant female by her wrist. Sakura growled fearlessly at him as she struggled to set herself free. She is one stubborn child, Suigetsu thinks but he must admit that he is rather impressed by this little girl's attitude; she is fighting for someone else's sake.

"Unhand me this instant!" Sakura did not give up trying to fight Suigetsu's grip. "Where are you taking me?! Unhand me I say!"

Ugh…she is so nosiy and the light haired male is just irritated by her. Since she is unwilling to follow him obediently, Suigetsu lifted her and carried the little female over his shoulder.

"HIYAH! What are you doing?!" Sakura yelped. Eep! Her skirt is short!

"If you don't shut up, I am not going to put you down," his light coloured brows knitted in an annoyed frown. Sakura sealed her lips shut as she was told. "We're going to the canteen for a chat. Don't you want answers?" he softly said despite he is still irritated.

Sakura nodded and soon enough Suigetsu set her down on her feet again before he began walking ahead of her, taking the lead. Side by side, they wordlessly paced to the canteen and during this hour, there isn't anyone else around beside the two.

Suigetsu kindly offered Sakura a cup of hot beverage. He set it down before her before he took his seat beside her. Shouldn't he be taking the opposite? Sakura was curious but when he began speaking softly, she understood that he wanted their conversation to be personal as it regards 'Franco'.

She could see that this guy was rather soft when it concerns the other Uchiha.

Suigetsu lazily rested his head on his supportive hand. He began talking while he stared into the distance,

"Uchiha Itachi…"

Sakura paused at her drink when she heard him spell the raven's name definitely. It was clear and crisp as if Suigetsu knew who 'Franco' actually is.

"You knew?"

"Of course I know…" the light haired male acknowledged. "I was the one who found him during that winter's night."

"W-What?!" Sakura gasped; the hot liquid in her cup almost spilled when her grip loosened suddenly.

Quickly she regained being calm; there is an important story for her to listen to and only Suigetsu knows the rest of the story other than she was being told by Sasuke. She will reveal reason of Itachi's missing whereabouts after all these years!

"Tell me, Suigetsu. Tell me what happened!" Sakura turned eager till she forgot her manners.

The male beside her stared at the other side of the canteen momentarily before speaking, sighing,

"I remember clearly it was late during that Christmas Eve when the snow was falling heavily and there were Christmas trees decorate in pretty lights…so pretty that I hate it so much. I hate Christmas so much to the extent I wanted to cry because for a homeless orphan like me who had no place to go and no family or friends, Christmas is pointless. There alone, I sat in the cold in the streets but…"

Sakura listened attentively and notices his hand balled into a fist as he recalled the past.

"But that was when Itachi showed up. He was ragged with cuts and he was bleeding as he came up to me with that stupid smile on his face. At first I thought he was insane. I watched him ripped off a present box and from that box, he shoved a pair of oven mitts and put them on my chilly hands."

"Oven mitts…?" Sakura frowned curiously.

"Stupid isn't it? You just can't figure out what he was trying to do…" Suigetsu chuckled sarcastically before he regained his serious tone. "Then he said in that silly smile of his…"

'It's better than nothing…but it is the only present I can afford for my little brother so you have to return it later, okay…'

"He was acting out of kindness. True…because of those mitts, that tiniest kindness, my hands were warmer…Christmas was warmer…" Suigetsu smiled to himself, chuckling softly. "After that, he collapsed. Blood gushed out of him…"

Sakura blinked as she looked at the male beside her who sighed as if it was a miserable tale to tell. He looked as if he was in pain while there was a certain gladness in his expression he showed the minute he stated his fateful meeting with Itachi in the past.

Yes, Suigetsu sounded thankful he met Itachi; his savior.

"I was too young myself to do anything so I went calling for help and that was when a French doctor passed by and helped us. Itachi was unconscious for weeks and it was a miracle for him to survive an accident; it was probably a hit-and-run kind. The day Itachi regained consciousness he didn't know who he is…" pausing momentarily. "Stupid guy, eh… If only he'd take better care of himself and quit being nosy he might not have…"

"That is just how he is…" Sakura added.

"Yeah…if it isn't for him, I wouldn't have survived that winter…"

Sakura sighed…so that was how it was… She suddenly felt sorry for Itachi and perhaps this is fate that the two brothers had to get separated like that.

"But still how do you know who he was? Itachi is an orphan himself. It doesn't make any sense!" Sakura said frowning.

"Ch! I am not finished just listen will you?" Suigetsu retorted. Sakura pouted at him. "Continuing where I was; after Itachi woke up, the French doctor adopted us since he was rather smitten with us and that was how the two of us ended up living in France with our old man and his son. Itachi practiced medicine and I helped as his assistant."

"Franco is talented and quickly took up our old man's trade and continued the family fame in medicine. I followed him everywhere he went even if it was the battlefield or plague!"

Sakura blinked in disbelief.

"To Franco, wherever help is needed, he'll go. It's stressful to keep up with his ambition in 'saving the world' or 'one hand can save many' thing…" Suigetsu rolled his eyes, Sakura giggled; really, the Uchiha brothers do have big hearts.

"Few years ago, Itachi and I returned to this country for medical practice with the infamous Tsunade. That was when I learned more about 'Uchiha Itachi' who had a little brother in a small bakery…" smiling, the light haired male sipped his drink. "I took the opportunity while we were here to investigate a bit. Sasuke indeed had all the qualities Itachi have. I was rather envious of the boy…to be blessed with such a wonderful brother…"

"Hmph! You're so jealous I see…" snorting, Sakura didn't care if she offended the male. On the other hand, she also understood Suigetsu much; it is sickening to be lonely and it is normal to feel bad.

Sakura couldn't blame him.

"Yeah…so I selfishly hid everything about Sasuke from Franco and even if it isn't for my selfish desires, the world needs someone like him. Soldiers, children and even animals, they all need Franco…!"

Suigetsu then turned to face Sakura and gaze into her eyes like never before; he lowered his head,

"Please, if you could spare my selfishness and for the sake of others, please, don't erase Franco's existence! Just let Uchiha Itachi be lost, forever… Please, Sakura!"

The little female sighed.

With Suigetsu begging wholeheartedly, she didn't know what to say nor know the right thing to do. Suigetsu loves Itachi as a family of his own and he desperately tries to protect it. It was the strength of brotherly love; so beautiful and touching.

Let the past slip away as if it never happened, as if Itachi was long dead in that winter's accident?

If she were to agree…what will happen to Sasuke?

What would happen to Sasuke and Itachi's brotherhood?

Is that a worthy sacrifice?

The choices are too cruel…

"What about Sasuke? He's suffering too. He waited for Itachi's return this whole time. He fought for the shop so it'll stay so that his brother could return home. Is that not important?!"

Sakura kept her cool although she felt like shouting; holding back the tears she felt terribly miserable for the Uchiha brothers.

Suigetsu speechlessly let out a retiring sigh. Both of them grew quiet; they couldn't look into each other's eyes as they disagreed with each other, fighting their own stand.

"I'm sorry…" was his reply before his voice drowned into silence.

What should they do? This is frustrating!

"Fine…" Sakura initiated again. "Even if Franco couldn't regain his memories, it's alright but I want Sasuke and Itachi to meet and you'll tell Franco the truth. We'll let him decide for himself!"

"W-What…?!"

Suigetsu jerked backwards as if he was afraid; an expected reaction. Sakura tugged his sleeve.

"Please, Suigetsu. It is not fair to Sasuke!" she begged, even if she had to go down to her knees and lower her head to the ground, she must fight her best for this chance.

Reluctant at first but then he hesitantly agreed.

"Thank you!" Sakura smiled delightfully.

"Don't be too happy yet, I might have second thoughts…" Suigetsu muttered in dislike. The little female beside him giggled.

"I know you won't because you're a nice person…"

"How can you be so sure," he retorted. She only replied him with a confident smile.

Suigetsu sighed tiredly.

"Sakura! Sui!"

Ah, just in time when their heated conversation ended, Itachi and the principal showed up. Sakura looked at Suigetsu for the last time; where her emeralds speak to him in hopes he keeps his promise.

"Come to Brown's Panya some other time…" she said lastly, hinting.

"Un…" the silver haired male nodded shortly before he removed himself from his seat and went up to the approaching raven.

Sakura watched the two males talked and bowed respectfully at Tsunade before they took their leave. Itachi turned around for the last time waving goodbye before he left with Suigetsu.

Tsunade chuckled sarcastically,

"I didn't really think that Franco is actually Uchiha Sasuke's brother. Poor thing and to me amnesia is just…cruel," she shrugged a bit. "It is that incurable pain in your chest that torments you when the person you loved most treats you like a stranger…"

Sakura glanced up to her then said,

"Is there anything to help it?" knowing there is none and when Tsunade shook her head negatively, it saddens her.

"Except for the love from his or her family; it may take years or a lifetime…But I can see Franco is doing well so why not let that be for the best?"

"I cannot do that. I don't have the right either. Not until Sasuke-kun says so…" Sakura firmly said; like a lady, she wore her confidence as she spoke.

Tsunade chuckled loudly out of being impressed.

"Sasha must be proud of you…If only you were older when Sasha was still alive I think she would have been happier…" the elderly principal said in lament. "Looking at you today, you're a splitting image of her so does your character," she smiled lastly.

"Mommy always says; happiness is found in someone else. So I want Sasuke-kun to be happy..." Sakura smiled genuinely.

"True…True…"

Tsunade nodded repeatedly.


At last, the story is revealing more of Sasuke and Itachi's past!

I hope that the story had answered to questions that were asked in your reviews previously. I know I only have answered them partially so…wait for chap 12? Haha.

Hope you will be patient again (I really, really appreciate it) and hope to hear your thoughts or you want to shoot me?

REVIEWS PLS! :D