Chapter 25 – We Stand Together
Nervously running her hands down her dress, Sakura eyed the store, wondering if she was undressed. It was on the posher side of Konoha – quite close to the Uchiha Manor, now that she was thinking about it, which made total sense in her mind and she wasn't sure why it hadn't connected before.
There was no point standing outside. Huffing to herself to get a grip, she entered the store, glancing around. It was so luxurious, with plush seats that looked like heaven to sit on and a table with platters of food beckoning her to come closer, to sink right in and stuff her face. The smell was so… Sakura bit her lip, willing herself to calm down. Stupid babies. She couldn't even tell what the hell was on the platters, but it had her stomach growling.
"Hi, how may I help you-"
The woman was interrupted before she'd even reached her, another speaking up excitedly while walking in, "I'm so glad you're here, Sakura-chan."
Oh, Gods. She'd turned up early. At least it wasn't too early.
"Thank you," Sakura told the store assistant, smiling.
She was around her mid-thirties, dressed impeccably in a mid-length dress that wasn't too tight or too loose, the dark colour standing out in sharp contrast compared to the wedding dresses surrounding them. Her heels weren't overly large, but definitely added to her already envious height and the woman's hair was neatly pinned back and off her face, which only had a minimal amount of makeup applied (still looked like a professional had done it, however). But instead of giving off the snobby, self-righteous air she'd expected of someone like her, the woman was all smiles and warmth, offering to take Sakura's jacket and then asking if she would like anything to drink. Seconds later and she was holding a glass of water, whereas Rin was handed a glass of champagne. It made her feel guilty for judging her so quickly.
"Looks like we're the first ones here," Rin said. She seemed to have been searching for something in particular, because she was leaning this way and that, eyebrows furrowing. "Excuse me," she called out to the woman, who was quick to approach them.
"Would you like to get started before the rest of your group arrives?" she asked with a smile.
"No, no." Waving her hand, Rin returned the smile widely, eyes creasing. "I was just wondering if you still had the silver bridesmaids' dresses?"
Seemingly already knowing what she was talking about, the woman nodded, telling her, "Yes, I do. They're in the back – oh, and the maternity dresses you asked for arrived just the other day, so I put them in the back, too."
Wait. "Dresses?" Sakura repeated once the woman had disappeared into the back room. "As in… more than one?"
The brunette nodded and grinned, surprising her momentarily by looping their arms together and guiding Sakura to one of the plush sofas (it did feel like heaven to sit on, just like she'd thought it would). They were also closer to the food now and noticing her supposedly discreet glance, Rin chuckled and grabbed one of the platters, setting it down between them.
"One of my other bridesmaids is pregnant, too." Brown eyes watched closely as Sakura got stuck in on the food, all but moaning at the flavours that exploded on her tongue. It was like nothing she'd ever tasted before and the meat was just… It was amazing. Juicy, but not greasy and the dip was extraordinary. "She only found out last week, but she's further along than she thought – she just thought she was bloated."
Hm. Stealing a glance at her own bump, she then looked at the pretty dresses surrounding her. Obviously, none of those would go anywhere near her. They seemed to have been made for tiny women who never ate a breadcrumb more than their strict diets allowed. She hoped, more than anything, that her dress wasn't ugly like her maternity pants and bras were – then again, the dress she was wearing at the minute wasn't too bad, she supposed.
Unsure as to what to wear to such a place, Sakura had gone with one of her dressier outfits, matching the stripy mid-length dress with peep toe heeled boots. Part of herself had warned darkly that it was going to hurt after a few hours. Her feet were going to be killing her by three. However, she had wanted to make an effort. Hadn't wanted the other bridesmaids to think she was just a child. A formfitting dress accentuated her curves, meaning it was more obvious that she wasn't a child. Itachi had tried to tell her differently and honestly, now she felt stupid for being so paranoid about it.
"That's what I meant about the others understanding," she continued, chuckling softly when the younger woman resumed eating. "Most of them have families of their own by now. They understand the struggle of adjusting to being pregnant."
She merely nodded, deciding on not answering. It was still a touchy subject, in her eyes and was best left alone. Swallowing the mouthful, she asked, "When will the others get here?"
"Any minute now."
Green eyes met brown and Sakura raised an eyebrow. "Do you already have your dress?"
She grinned at that. "Nope. I thought I did, but…"
Rin truly didn't look her age.
Like herself, Nohara Rin was classed as petite and her features were delicate – youthful, even. A classic baby face. Wide brown eyes gleamed with happiness as she sipped on her champagne, the alcohol causing a soft blush to sweep over her cheeks. Many of the bridesmaids were in similar conditions, all squealing with happiness over the pretty dresses. They were even worse when they began with Rin trying on her dresses.
"What do you think, Sakura-chan?" asked the brunette, her hands restlessly fidgeting with her hair to try and give her a better idea of the look. "This one is…"
Did she want an honest answer? Grimacing, Sakura pulled herself to her feet, finally separating herself from the platter of food. It seemed the babies were more hungry than usual that day, because all she'd been doing since waking up – hell, even in the middle of the night – was eating. Then again, until her throat had healed, she'd basically been living off soup and noodles. It was a wonderful change.
Humming and trying to ignore the watchful gazes of the other bridesmaids, she indicated with her hand for Rin to spin, before grimacing once more when she did. "It doesn't… feel right, if that makes sense."
Rin nodded in agreement and ran her hands down the puffy white dress. There were so many frills and layers to it. Then, she smiled down at her. "Which one do you think looked best?"
The other bridesmaids were so much older than herself, like Sakura had feared them being. The one that was pregnant, just as Rin had warned her, wasn't all that far into the pregnancy, so was able to get away with one of the ordinary dresses instead of using a maternity dress. Part of her had selfishly hoped the woman would be twice the size of her, meaning the attention would be on the other bridesmaid rather than her. Sadly, that wasn't the case.
It was difficult talking with people who were nearly twice her age, because they obviously liked different things. They were nice to her, don't get her wrong, but there was clear awkwardness between them. Probably why Rin was trying so hard to include her, since she was the only one who didn't know everyone else that well. They all seemed to be acquaintances, if not friends, already.
Smiling somewhat nervously now that all attention was on her, Sakura made her way over to the rail of dresses, critically assessing each one and channelling her inner-Ino to do so. It took a few moments, but eventually, she found which one she was searching for, the one that had made her want to tear up at just the sight of Rin in the dress. If she reacted that way to her wearing it, to looking so unfairly beautiful and elegant, how would Obito react? The guy was soft. He was a hopeless romantic. He'd probably burst into tears at the altar.
"This," Sakura said with a grin, holding it up for the others to see. "I thought it was really beautiful."
"Yes!" another bridesmaid gasped. "Rin-san, you must try that one on again."
"Oh, that was my choice," said another.
"I was hoping you'd say that one," Rin replied, returning the grin widely. "Obito won't know what hit him, right?"
Her grin, if it was even possible, grew. "I'll make sure Naruto gets his exact reaction on camera."
The brunette covered her mouth, trying to hide her tipsy laughter.
"She's going to look so beautiful," Sakura gushed, leaning back in her seat and opening the window fully, breathing in the fresh air deeply. "The maid of honour – Akira-san – has been showing me the plans for Rin-san's hair and makeup and…" She grinned up at him. "I can see why people love weddings so much."
In the driver's seat, Kakashi smiled down at her, but it wasn't his usual reserved smile or the smile he used when trying to cheer her up. The warmth and happiness was so obvious in his eyes, making him appear years younger. It seemed even he was affected by the happy occasion.
"Should I expect Obito to cry?" he asked teasingly.
"Like a baby."
He chuckled at that. "And your dress?" Oh, that. Pouting, she looked up at her adoptive father, effectively causing his chuckling to turn into laughter. Guessing what was wrong, he reached up, ruffling her hair, saying, "You're trying it on the day before."
Well, she was growing two humans. Sakura had no doubts in her mind that, in the next two weeks or so, she would have gained another several inches around her waist and because of that, she was going with the next size up. Hell, they were even putting aside one that was two sizes up, willing to take it in on the day. "And on the same day."
Since he'd been close by (he and Obito were trying on tuxedos for the wedding, since Kakashi was the best man and all), Kakashi had offered to take Sakura to and from the wedding dress store, giving Itachi the chance to resume his training at ANBU headquarters. There was no use in arguing with him. She knew he had to better himself, hone his skills, otherwise it could possibly cost him his life while out on a mission.
And he had to come home to her.
"Hungry?"
Narrowing her eyes suspiciously, Sakura watched Kakashi out of the corner of her eye. "Are you paying?"
He sighed dejectedly. "I suppose."
"Then I'm starving," she replied with a grin.
According to Rin, Shisui, Sasuke, Itachi and Naruto were going to be Obito's groomsmen. Sakura couldn't remember who the flower girl was, or the ring bearer. She simply knew the bridesmaids, groomsmen, maid of honour and the best man. That probably meant she wasn't living up to her bridesmaid duties, but whatever.
Smiling as she heard the front door open, followed by the dogs both barking in greeting and rushing to meet their master, Sakura popped her head through the archway to the kitchen, smile widening at the sight of her boyfriend. He looked exhausted, totally wiped out, but there was a satisfied glint in his eye telling her he was feeling better for the no doubt intense workout.
"Good timing. I just put dinner on," she told him. Leaving the kitchen, she took Itachi's jacket from him as it had been over his arm rather than being worn and she hung it up while he removed his shoes. "Good workout, I take it?"
He nodded and then smiled warmly at her, lips brushing against her forehead. "How did today go?"
Gods, would being kissed on the forehead ever not make her feel like she was overrun with giddiness? "Better than I expected. It took a while, but I think the other bridesmaids like me. Oh, and one more thing." Itachi raised an eyebrow at her in question and she told him, "Rin-san's arrangements for the wedding changed a little, so we get to walk back up the aisle together afterwards."
"One of the bridesmaids pulled out?"
Sakura nodded, features saddening even as she took her boyfriend's hand and guided him towards the bathroom, where he had a clean set of clothes and a full, hot bath. After all, why should it only be herself who was spoiled? Itachi deserved special treatment, too. He deserved to be pampered, even if he disliked the word 'pampered' in the same sentence as his name.
"Her mother died the other day, but because she's originally from another country and that was where her mother lived…"
Understanding, he finished for her, saying, "She has to travel back home for the funeral."
Nodding again, she offered Itachi another smile, fingers trailing down his shirt once they were in the bathroom. Ken was whining for attention after she shut the door, wanting a real greeting from his master, but Sakura paid him no mind, instead focusing entirely on her boyfriend as she looked up at him.
Itachi smirked at her and his hands came to rest on her hips. "Long day?"
"Well, I was going to help you undress since dinner isn't going to be ready for another forty-five minutes," she began teasingly, biting her lip and dropping her gaze to her hands as she teased the neckline of his shirt, fingers then moved lower, knowingly making his stomach muscles tense at the feeling of her gentle touch, of her nails lightly grazing him. "But if you think it's been a long day for me…"
It had her smirking when an arm wrapped around her waist before her hips were softly bumping against the sink.
Breathing out a deep sigh, Sakura sat back on the sofa, shutting her eyes as she dropped a blob of gel onto the bump. Her shirt was up around her breasts, pants pushed low on her hips. There was a faint shake to her hands as she picked up the device, having already quickly skimmed through the instructions and pressed the record button. Last time, due to how brief it was, there was barely anything to hear – at least, it didn't last all that long, so wasn't truly worth listening to.
It had been a week and a half since she went shopping with Rin and her bump had grown yet again (not that she'd been expecting any different). Several times, she'd tried hearing them, tried hearing her babies. It was difficult, though. Sakura wasn't even sure why she couldn't do it. It just… Hearing their heartbeats brought forth a huge surge of panic, of pure fear and she couldn't control those emotions in the slightest. For the sake of… of not wanting to resort to that, she avoided it. Tried to ignore it. Tried to ignore them. Tsunade told her bluntly that avoiding her problems wasn't going to fix them, however. They'd only get worse. To the point where she'd feel like she was drowning. There was also the risk of being unable to accept them after giving birth and she just…
Opening her eyes again, she looked down at the machine, bringing the probe to her stomach, smearing the gel over her skin. It took a few minutes, but soon enough, the sound of the heartbeats came through. Loud, strong and impossible to ignore. Both were.
She swallowed hard.
Listen to them, she begged of herself. Listen to your babies.
Her grip tightened, the sound of the heartbeats seeming to echo around her head.
Don't fear your babies.
She breathed in deeply through her nose, breathing out slowly.
Try.
Her heart was pounding, to the point where Sakura was surprised it didn't overshadow their heartbeats, but it only seemed to make them stronger, like they were experiencing her panic for themselves. It made her eyes widen with a mixture of shock and worry. Were they…?
She glanced down at her bump, her free, trembling hand coming to the side of it, mindful of the gel, before settling on falling back to the sofa. The gesture felt foreign to her. Surreal, even. Still, she quietly shushed them, swallowing hard again before saying, "It's okay." Moving the probe slightly to the side, she let out a sigh. "Just breathe."
And then she felt it.
What the…
Eyes wide in stunned disbelief, Sakura watched as small feet began to show on her stomach. Her eyebrows furrowed at the strange sensation and slowly, she pressed a hand back to her stomach, the frown only deepening as the kicks grew in strength. How…
A small, hesitant smile pulled at her lips.
"Itachi," she called, though not too loudly as she didn't want to scare them. "Itachi!"
He quickly left the bathroom, expression one of concern and surprise, until she beckoned him closer and grabbed his hand, placing it onto her stomach and when he felt what she could feel, his eyes widened, breath leaving him and the most beautiful smile brightened his features, taking years away from him.
And then that smile widened. "You were listening to them."
Sakura nodded, gazing up at him nervously as Itachi's hands shifted over her stomach, uncaring of the gel. There was only a towel wrapped loosely around his waist, hair soaked and water sliding down his damp, flushed skin. Smiling, she reached out, fingers tracing his scarred muscles, a blush sweeping over her cheeks when he smirked down at her.
Shifting, he sat beside her, taking the hand drawing patterns on his muscles and entwining their fingers, kissing the back of her hand. "How are you feeling?"
For a moment, she was unable to find any words. She wasn't entirely sure how she was feeling. Conflicted, that was for sure. There was no mistaking the way her heart had skipped a beat, just like there was no denying the way she'd reacted to feeling the babies move. It had been instinctual to call for Itachi so they could experience it together, had been instinctual the way she wanted to feel more of it. Sakura simply… She felt conflicted. That overwhelming fear was still present. The fear of not being enough, of not being able to protect them or love them. But…
Tears filled her eyes.
"I'm going to be a mom."
His smile returned. "Our family is growing."
Her hold on his hand tightened, other hand quickly and roughly wiping at her eyes, trying to hide the fact that tears were even there to begin with. "Please don't let me fail them, Itachi." It hadn't meant to come out as a whine. It'd meant to sound serious, meant to sound fierce and strong. "Please."
Dark eyes warmed and once more, Itachi shifted closer, releasing her hand to wrap an arm around her shoulders, lips brushing a loving kiss to the side of her head. "As long as you help me, also." Taking the machine from her with the hand that'd been touching the bump, he continued to record their heartbeats. "We will learn together."
He'd said that before, had said it many times. But having him say it alongside hearing their heartbeats, while feeling them kicking her, demanding that she acknowledged them, was just-
A knock at the door brought them out of their bubble, popping it mercilessly. Watery green eyes trailed over to the hallway, hoping and praying that they'd think they weren't in, but Ken instantly gave them away, rushing to the door and barking in a way that told them he knew who it was. The barking wasn't as frantic, wasn't angry. And Akako remained in her bed until she lazily dragged herself over to the couple, chin coming to rest on Sakura's knee.
"Where is my-"
"It's on the back of the bedroom door," she replied, smiling and then wiping at her eyes again. "If you want, I can-"
"No, you stay here." His smile returned, lips pressing to hers.
Sakura was too busy returning her gaze to her stomach, watching it in dazed amazement to notice Itachi sparing her a final, warm look before leaving to cover himself.
They were…
They felt the things she felt. When she'd panicked, they'd panicked, too. They'd kicked at the sound of her voice, when she'd spoken to them. Did that mean…? Did it mean they liked the sound of her voice? Did they recognise it? Did they like her even though she was struggling to accept them?
"Sakura."
The voice had her eyes going wide, had them darting to the arch leading to the hallway. Stood there, with a suitcase in hand, was someone who wasn't supposed to have arrived for another two days, until two days before the wedding.
"Sasuke-kun," she said in surprise and tried to stand, only to smile sheepishly when he gestured for her to stay sitting, instead joining her on the sofa, leaving his suitcase behind. "You're early."
He nodded, dark eyes going to her bump and she was further surprised by the warmth she could see in his features, when he said quietly to her, "You're accepting them." Almost shyly, Sakura nodded, smiling. "I'm glad."
"You're early," Itachi repeated her words as he followed his brother into the living room, hand running through Ken's thick hair. The dog sat obediently at his feet for the first time in a while. Ken usually got too excited and ended up getting under their feet.
Again, Sasuke nodded, not bothering to ask if it was all right he'd come earlier than expected. He knew he was always welcome, even if he showed up at four in the morning, or some other ridiculous time.
"There are a few things I need to sort out," he told them, gaze trailing from Itachi's, to hers and then back to the bump. "So, I asked a friend of mine to sign me in for the next few days at my lectures. I'll still be going back at the same time."
"It'll probably be for the best," Sakura said with a knowing grin, sparing a glance at her boyfriend, who seemed equally amused. "Rin-san's going a bit crazy with last minute details, including yours and Itachi's tuxedos."
"Itachi's?" asked Sasuke. He frowned, once again looking to him. "You still haven't got yours?"
"I decided to wait for you."
Or, more specifically, he decided to wait for Sasuke because his brother knew of Itachi's scars. He'd seen them several times now. Changing in front of the other men – more Obito and Shisui than Kakashi and Naruto, as the last two already knew of them, whereas the other two were oblivious – put him on edge. She could tell by the tension that would enter his body at the mere mentioning of purchasing his tuxedo alongside of them. It was why he trained when they were trying them on, why Kakashi covered for him whenever the two Uchiha men asked about him.
Realisation flitted over the younger brother's features, but he didn't make a show of it, simply nodding in understanding. Then, he smirked lazily. "Guess we should go early in the morning then. There's only four days until the wedding."
Itachi sat down on her other side, agreeing but adding, "Obito-san has already chosen the tuxedos he wishes his groomsmen to wear and I gave him our sizes. We simply have to try them on and make sure they fit."
"Do you already have shoes?" she asked him, already knowing that Itachi wanted to wait until he had his tuxedo. When he shook his head, green eyes rolled, a small smirk playing on her lips. "You two are too alike."
"Oh?"
They were both amused by her words, but her sudden intake of breath stole the attention, especially as feet began to show on her stomach again. It was only one set for a few moments, the movements strong and sure, like they were demanding attention, refusing to be ignored.
"So stubborn," she muttered.
Noticing the surprise in Sasuke's eyes, she smirked, taking his hand and pressing it to her stomach. He grimaced at the feeling of the gel, which had yet to fully dry, but as soon as he felt the kicks, he quickly forgot about it, eyes widening and meeting theirs.
"They feel strong."
"That's just one of them," Sakura told him. "I think the other is asleep-"
Just as the word left her lips, another set of feet got stuck into her side, almost as though they were competing with the other baby.
Itachi couldn't help but smile, his hand going to the other side of her bump. "They like your voice, Sakura."
A sharp kick to her left side had her narrowing her eyes on him, making his hand come away for a split second in surprise. "And I think they like yours too much."
Out of the corner of her eye, she saw Sasuke looking between them, an unhidden warmth taking over his features. It was a relaxed kind of warmth. A peaceful one. Smiling, Sakura leaned her head on his shoulder, arm looping through his. He'd seen her at her absolute worst, when she was a scrawny mess of a child who was treated like an unloved animal. He'd helped her get out of that hell. And now, even if it was only because they were brothers, she'd met Itachi through him. Meeting Uchiha Sasuke had changed her life. No, he changed her life.
"Thank you," she whispered, taking them both by surprise but not going into further detail.
"Oh, Sasuke-chan!"
The teasing voice had Sakura sticking her head out from the kitchen, watching the backs of her boyfriend and his best friend.
Earlier that day, Itachi and Sasuke had picked up their tuxedos, finding shoes to match them and then returned with her favourite breakfast takeout, waking her up with it, so it was safe to say Sakura was in a great mood.
There was the sound of a hand coming down on a shoulder not so gently, followed by a grunt signifying Sasuke's annoyance. "You're early, aren't you?"
Drying her hands and smiling, she followed them into the living room, no longer shocked to find that the dogs weren't all over their guests. Ken seemed to perk up at the sight of Shisui, but he didn't jump the guy or slobber all over him. Kakashi was making remarkable progress – not a single person could deny it. She'd have to find a way to thank him for it.
"Got to sort some things out."
"Oh?" Shisui chuckled in obvious amusement, hand giving the youngest Uchiha's shoulder a firm, teasing shake. "What sort of things, Sasuke-chan? I keep forgetting you're growing up since you're still so small."
His cheeks quickly grew red, followed by the back of his neck. "I'm not-"
"Little Sasuke," he sighed, expression reminiscent. Then, he smirked down at him, hand coming to the ends of his hair, which was flatter than usual, his bangs once more covering his forehead. "Are you growing it out again? Like when you were seven?"
Interest piqued, Sakura moved to stand beside Itachi, grinning up at him when his hand pressed to the small of her back, arm slowly wrapping around her waist. She responded to the one-armed embrace by snaking her own arm around his waist, head coming to rest on his chest.
Whatever the memory was, it had her boyfriend smiling. "Are you tormenting my little brother, Shisui?"
Dark eyes shone with mirth as the oldest of the three Uchiha glanced over at them, raising an eyebrow. "I could torment you instead, if you wish."
He held up one hand in a mock surrender. "As his older brother, it is my duty to defend him." Smirking, he then added, "But it is every man for himself, in this case."
"Itachi!"
The betrayed expression on Sasuke's face had her laughing and covering her mouth, trying to stifle said laughter when he looked at her in utter disbelief. "Sorry, Sasuke-kun." Turning her gaze to Shisui, she couldn't help but ask, "How long did it get when he was seven?"
Like he'd been waiting for the question, he instantly returned his attention to Sasuke, ruffling his hair playfully and ignoring the warning growl that came from him. It didn't seem to concern him in the least, but then again, Shisui was so much bigger than Sasuke – not just in height, but muscles, too.
"It got to about here." His hand came to his shoulder, only a few inches below where it currently was. "Then Sasuke-chan decided it was too much hard work."
She couldn't imagine Sasuke with long hair. Since it was flatter at the moment, no longer sticking up at the back, Sakura could tell in a heartbeat that he'd look more like Itachi with long hair. In fact, it was a no-brainer. Green eyes widening in shock, she started to ask, "You wanted to-"
"Sakura."
The warning, along with the glare, only seemed to amuse Shisui further, both hands once more clamping down on his shoulders, keeping him seated. The sound of his hands slapping his shoulders alerted the dogs, who watched suspiciously from their beds, their attentive gazes occasionally going between them all, like they were debating on whether they had to get involved to defend their masters.
"That's right, Sakura-chan," Shisui said, grinning now. "Sasuke-chan wanted to look more like his beloved older brother, Itachi-chan."
That was freaking adorable. And Sasuke's blush of embarrassment made it even more so.
"But that's not the best part," he then told her. At the raising of her eyebrows, at her expectant expression, Shisui said, "Itachi-chan cut his hair shorter so that it'd be easier for him!"
Sasuke suddenly wasn't the only one who was blushing.
"That is adorable," Sakura exclaimed, pulling away from Itachi to smirk up at him. "Twinsies?"
He sighed. "Sakura-"
"I can picture it now," she joined in Shisui's teasing. Her grin easily matched his as he gently pulled her to his side, arm coming to rest on her shoulders, the pair of them watching the two brothers. "Matching hair, matching outfits…"
"If only I'd taken a picture."
At the lilt to his voice, three sets of eyes widened. Theirs in horror and disbelief, whereas hers was in joyous surprise. "Show me."
His free hand came to the side of his head, scratching with a single finger in a seemingly innocent gesture. "I haven't got it with me right now, but-"
"I expect it to be sent to me by tonight," she ordered playfully, sparing a glance at her boyfriend and best friend, who both sighed in dejection, exchanging weary expressions. "And then in a few years' time, I can show the babies-"
"Sakura, please." Itachi's eyes had widened a fraction again, voice holding a slight plea. "I was twelve years old at the time-"
"And it's still adorable." Looking back to Shisui, she said, "Actually, I'd like a copy so I can put it in my photo album."
"I'm sure Naruto has bad photographs of you, too," Sasuke tried to bargain with her. "I could-"
She rolled her eyes. Having Shisui holding onto her like an older brother made Sasuke's threats seem more like a kitten going up against a lion. "Like he'd ever let you use them against me."
Since he couldn't argue with that, he went to his last resort, eyes narrowing as he muttered, "Ino."
No.
The widening of her eyes gave her away, as did the sharp intake of breath. Shit. The tables had turned. Apparently Itachi noticed that also, because he smirked down at his brother in approval, one that widened briefly at his nod.
"Mikoto-san," Shisui countered, eyes narrowing fractionally on the pair.
Their smirks dropped.
"You should both know better." His voice was still teasing. "Picking on a pregnant lady."
Once again, Itachi sighed. "Did you come here simply to torment us, Shisui?"
"Actually, I've been given the next few days off because of my hard work and dedication as of late," he told them with ease, smiling. "I wanted to spend the day relaxing and catching up with you all."
It warmed her heart, prompting her to give him a final squeeze before pulling away, sitting down next to Sasuke, offering him an apologetic, nervous smile. For a few moments, he looked like he was resisting, like he wasn't sure whether to forgive her. But then he smirked, huffing with amusement. They all knew they were only playing around.
The front door suddenly opened and closed, Akako and Ken immediately alert and standing, the former coming to sit at Sakura's feet loyally, whereas the latter rushed to the door, growling in warning until he recognised the guest, quickly barking excitedly. That only meant one thing, especially as she heard scuffling. It sounded an awful lot like play fighting, no doubt he was winding the dog up again.
"Naruto," she sighed.
Sasuke also sighed. "I forgot I called him."
After last time, when he'd forgotten to tell Naruto he was back in Konoha, Sakura wasn't too surprised that he'd made sure to call the blond not long after arriving. There was no doubt a huge lecture on the way to the airport when Sasuke had been leaving, one that kept him from making the same mistake twice.
Naruto was completely at home in her apartment, greeting them all cheerfully before sitting beside Sakura, hand coming to her bump as he then said, "Morning, guys."
Previously, it'd bugged her when people spoke to the bump, as they were supposed to be there to see her, not them. Now, however, although it seemed like a complete one-eighty, Sakura had come to understand that she and the children, thanks to their moment yesterday of experiencing the same worry and panic, were one. They were like a package deal. While she'd known that her life was no longer her own, it truly hit her yesterday. People couldn't greet her and not the babies. She finally understood that now, so no longer grew annoyed.
"Don't you have your scan today, Sakura-chan?" he asked them curiously, sitting up straight from his crouch to the bump to get a better look at her.
"Tomorrow," she corrected. "At noon."
"Are you going to find out what you're having?"
It saddened her how Itachi glanced at her out of the corner of his eye, like he was worried she would react negatively to the question. Saying that, he had every right to really, didn't he?
"I was thinking about that actually," Sakura started somewhat nervously, wishing that it was just herself and her boyfriend in the room as she spoke. He must have noticed that, because he came to her side, smiling gratefully when Sasuke shifted out of the way to make room for him to sit down. "Maybe…" It strengthened her resolve when he took her hand, reminding her that they were a team. He would not let her fail. "After we find out the sexes of the babies… Maybe we could decorate the nursery?"
She noticed Naruto grinning widely, proudly, at the others, but kept her full attention on Itachi, who suddenly seemed hesitant to accept her words, or like he was unable to register them, until he smiled that beautiful, beautiful smile that made it all seem so worth it. Anything she had to go through to see such happiness in his eyes, to see such a peaceful, happy smile on his face, was worth it.
"I would love to."
"Ino-Pig left a few catalogues for me – most of them neutral designs in case we didn't want to know what we're having, but-"
"Why wouldn't you guys want to know?" asked Naruto, frowning in confusion. "Wouldn't that make it harder work finding stuff to buy them?"
"Not necessarily," Shisui replied and sat down on the other half of the corner suite, smiling lightly when Ken and Akako came to his sides, demanding attention that he easily gave to them without a second thought. "Some people like to be surprised."
Even Sasuke seemed dubious, though didn't show it as openly as Naruto did. Probably didn't want to offend them. "I suppose, but what if you wanted a bright room for them? Or certain clothes?"
Relaxing back into the sofa, she smiled in thanks when Naruto moved away and allowed her to reclaim her spot of leaning against the arm, her thanks only growing when Itachi lifted her legs and placed them over his lap, giving a gentle massage. Lately, she'd been getting a horrible cramp in her right leg, one that always reared its unwanted head whenever she stretched, making her hesitant to do so.
"Do you want to know the sexes?" her boyfriend asked her, not listening to the others' continued discussion.
Did she? Leaning forward to fix a cushion to the arch of her back, Sakura bit her lip, lowering herself against it once more. The debate between knowing and not knowing was growing heated now that Sasuke had sided with Shisui, seeing the sense in the older man's word. Obviously, that didn't sit well with Naruto.
"I don't know," she said, deciding to be truthful. "I think it'd be easier, but…"
"But we shouldn't know just so that it makes it easier," he finished for her, smiling. "How about we wait until the scan and when the midwife asks, we will have had time to think it over?"
That sounded like a good plan. That way, she wouldn't feel put on the spot or defensive when the midwife no doubt asked several times if she was sure. "Yeah. I like that."
"And when we return, we will know what to look for in the catalogues, should we decide to find out," Itachi added, giving a final rub to her leg before reaching for the bump. "If not, we can look at neutral designs."
"Are they always like this now?"
Green eyes hardened as she glared at Naruto for destroying the moment and when he found two other sets of dark eyes narrowing on his in warning, he gulped, paling, and shifted so that he was half behind Sasuke, who merely rolled his eyes and muttered something about learning to keep his mouth shut.
At the start of her pregnancy, she'd naïvely believed that the scans would take place in the hospital, but apparently, it was a health centre. Probably to try and keep the hospital less busy, or something of the sort. It didn't bother her. The health centre (which had just as many floors and confusing directions as a hospital) was a hell of a lot closer than the hospital.
Also, quite annoyingly, she'd been called in a couple of times since Hidan's attack for tests to check whether the babies had any disabilities such as spina bifida, down's syndrome, or other genetic conditions. After the scan that day (along with the anomaly scan), due to the babies having their own placentas and whatnot, her scans would be every four weeks. It tired her out just thinking of all the trips, but now that they had a car, it wasn't so bad.
The waiting area was large and quite empty compared to her usual doctor's surgery, which always had screaming kids and sick elderly people who never stopped coughing. Above her was a glass ceiling, allowing the sun to beam down on them – something she was grateful for, as it was such a lovely day, way too warm to be staying indoors for long periods of time. She hoped the weather stayed the same for the next few day, since it was the wedding in two days.
Oh, that reminded her. "I need to go back to the dress store tomorrow," she told Itachi, their fingers lacing. "Hopefully I haven't grown too much."
"They are maternity dresses, Sakura," he reminded her gently. "They are designed for changes in size."
"Maybe normal pregnancies." It was difficult hiding her huff of annoyance. "Mine isn't exactly normal, is it? I'm carrying two of them." Gods, her figure was going to be ruined, especially considering she had around seventeen to eighteen weeks left. How much more growing would there be? "I feel like I'm growing another inch every day."
Itachi wasn't given the chance to respond (and she was certain she saw relief on his face) due to the midwife calling her name. Trying not to show that it was getting slightly difficult to lift herself out of their plush, low seats, Sakura tightened her hold on his hand, to which he nonchalantly pulled on, helping her stand more easily.
"How are we all feeling?" the midwife asked kindly as they entered the examination room. "I heard you were experiencing Braxton Hicks?" At her nod and haunted expression, the woman chuckled. "Horrible things, aren't they? I remember not being able to move with my first."
Finally. Someone who understood the agony of Braxton Hicks. If she hadn't liked her before, then she did now. "They were terrible, Anzu-sensei."
"Are they still painful now?"
"Not as badly."
"We're making sure to carry water with us to keep Sakura hydrated," Itachi further explained. "Also, lately, she's been getting frequent cramps in her legs, mostly the right."
Anzu sighed, nodding understandingly. "Unfortunately, there isn't much I can do to help with cramps other than offer you advice. Were you active before the pregnancy?"
"Weekly sessions as a dojo, sometimes several times a week," she replied, not bothering to hide her sadness of no longer being able to attend.
"I see." Gesturing to the examination bed, she waited, watching as Itachi helped Sakura climb onto it. "The cramps could potentially be your body's way of telling you that it'd like you stay active."
"But I thought-"
"Not sessions at the dojo," Anzu clarified, noticing the disbelieving glances she received. "Have you ever tried yoga – pregnancy yoga classes, I mean. I heard it's great for helping with shortness of breath throughout the pregnancy and can even help with labour."
Oh, Gods. The last thing she wanted to think about was labour. She was going to have to do it twice and Ino's sly remark about the second baby just shooting straight out after the first had done the damage wasn't helping in the slightest. Of course, Sakura knew the muscle would go back to normal, would tighten again, but what if they didn't? What if she was loose for the rest of her life and unable to experience any pleasure during sex and just–
"Getting yourself a little panicked there," Anzu chided with a soft chuckle, offering her a kind smile. "I believe you will benefit greatly from the yoga classes, though you do not have to take them if you don't want to."
"No, I want to," she quickly argued, leaning up on her elbows. "How do I sign up?"
"I can give you leaflets at the end of the examination for different classes, so you can choose which one is best for you. Have you decided whether you wish to go to the parenting classes?"
They exchanged a glance, her boyfriend smiling faintly. "We are still considering it."
There was a moment of realisation as the woman nodded, still smiling. "Well, until then, there are other classes that have become quite popular lately. They're aimed at new fathers, giving them tips and other helpful advice, along with…"
Sakura tuned Anzu out as she leaned back into the bed again, green eyes going to the ceiling. Like the other day, just before she'd heard the heartbeats, a small bout of nervousness was growing in her stomach, but she forced herself to breathe out slowly to try and stay calm. If not for herself, then for the babies. They seemed to pick up on her emotions, seemed to panic when she panicked.
Her hand found Itachi's as the sound of their heartbeats filled the room, fingers lacing together.
"It seems they're being very well behaved today," the midwife told them, smiling at the screen. "Would you like to know the sexes?"
Their eyes met, breath catching in her throat.
Did they want to know the sexes?
A/N - Fast update, but I think right now, we need some positivity in the world, hence why the chapter is more cheerful.
Thank you to all of you who messaged me, asking if I was okay and safe, following the terrorist attack in the UK, however, I fortunately don't live in that part of the UK. It's still scary, though. And emotional. It's heartbreaking that somebody targeted young children because, let's be honest, a lot of Ariana's fan base are children. One of the victims had actually died shielding her niece from the bomb, whereas another child who attended the concert lost both parents when they went to pick them up afterwards and were caught in it.
I think one of the saddest parts about it is the reaction towards all Muslims. Kids have been setting Muslims' shops on fire, blaming all Muslims for the actions of the extremists. But the religion is actually so, so peaceful and if they took the time to listen, they'd hear the true Muslims say that those people and their actions are nothing to do with their religion. On that night, they switched off all taxi metres and gave free rides to the people attending the concerts, taking them to safety. There were Muslims who worked overtime to help save lives and protect the public. Others gave out free food. All I'm saying is that you can't blame all Muslims for the extremists' actions. You can't let those heartless monsters fill you with so much hate that you end up turning on innocent people. Don't sink to their level or fight hate with more hate, because in the end, it won't get us anywhere.
On a more cheerful note, that question at the end of chapter is aimed at all of you. Should Itachi and Sakura find out? What do you think they should have?