C h a i n e d
t o
Y o u
{ 2 }
Kakashi liked to believe he wasn't the type of man who could easily be surprised.
Early on he'd learned that life was the epitome of unpredictability. This was made abundantly clear when his teammates passed away when they were barely teenagers. Since then, he decided to never find himself in that position again. Lost, confused, shocked. It was a terrible feeling. The kind he never wanted to go through again.
Simply put, He liked knowing all the variables in any situation, in all aspects of his life.
When it came to his shinobi duties, he made sure to always look underneath the surface, figure out his enemy's next move before they even began the battle, never allowing himself to end up lost or without a plan.
When it came to his occupation as a teacher, he made it a point to look beyond words and deeper into the actions of his students, to keep on his toes so that he could support them and be there for his team regardless of the situation.
When it came to his social life, which in complete honesty wasn't very exciting, he could practically predict what was going to happen at any given night. Whether it was Gai challenging him, claiming that everlasting youth shall prevail and Kakashi will finally lose a drinking match against him or Genma dragging him off to a club to meet with faceless women, eager to finally get him laid.
But the one thing he found himself completely and utterly unprepared for was the sight of his student, scantily clad in black lace, standing on a brightly lit stage for everyone to see.
His eyes widened at her form.
Ivory skin, a lithe body that only an experienced kunoichi could achieve and-were those heels?
Kakashi's eyes widened even further.
Sakura walked to the center of the platform, her movements graceful but he could see the tension in her muscles, much like a cat ready to pounce at the slightest sign of danger.
Her hips swayed and his gaze was instantly drawn to the subtle movement, wondering how the hell she hid all of this underneath her medic uniform.
Did he expect her to be dressed like a woman for sale? Yes, undoubtedly.
But did he anticipate she would look like sex personified?
Well...no.
He almost choked at what she was wearing. Black lingerie, endless amount of lace, sheer stockings that ended just at her mid thighs paired with black ribbons that seemed to be holding the whole ensemble together.
It looked like something straight out of his beloved icha-icha novels.
It seemed almost ironic how he was sure that Sakura wouldn't be able to play this role, that she was out of her depth and simply wasn't comfortable enough to walk around with a leash, that she was much too volatile and temperamental for such a task. Kakashi remembered glancing at her when she wasn't looking back at the Hokage tower. His eyes gave her a quick once over. Not as a shinobi but as a man. Just by looking at her he knew she was still untouched and very new when it came to the realm of sex and all things dark. He had hoped to spare her innocence from being taken away on a mission. All of these reasons were what pushed him to try and persuade the Hokage to find another kunoichi to take her place but it seemed it was beyond his control.
And clearly, he was just proven wrong.
Curves he never noticed were suddenly on display, the kind he honestly never noticed or thought about until now. He felt guilty for looking at all, tracing the lines of her body with his gaze, still processing that this was his student, a silver collar around her neck with an angry gaze he was sure had everything to do with the men surrounding her, watching her every move like a predator would to its prey.
His eyes widened at all the exposed skin, feeling a sudden stab of heat that was entirely unwelcome, hit him quite hard.
Hold up.
No. This was his student. This was Sakura for crying out loud. The innocent, lovesick girl who chased after a brooding boy for most her life. The girl who patched him along with the rest of their team whenever they were wounded, especially him who was positively allergic to hospitals. The same girl who he trained, looked after and watched grow.
Well she definitely grew in more ways than one.
Kakashi immediately and ruthlessly stamped on that dirty (yet true) thought.
There was no way he actually liked what he saw.
Sakura kept her head held high despite the collar she wore, a stark contrast to the women who came through those curtains before her. Fiery jade green eyes glared from beneath thick lashes. She didn't look like a submissive pet ready to be trained. No. She reminded him of a fierce lioness unwilling to be caged.
Another flash of heat seared through him at thought that maybe he could tame her.
The copy nin pinched the bridge of his nose, mentally scolding himself for such impure and dangerous thoughts.
Pathetic. He really was a dirty old man for finding a young girl like Sakura sexy and appealing-
The copy nin shook his head in frustration for letting his thoughts get the better of him, for allowing himself to get shocked for even the briefest of moments. Focus. Eventually his mind caught up with the world around him, listening to the bids and how much he would have to give to catch up.
Fuck. He didn't anticipate that the bids would get this high.
But then again, he didn't think Sakura could look this appealing in practically nothing.
Just when he thought he sealed the deal with a large sum of nine hundred thousand ryo, a voice cut through the air, startling Kakashi for the second time that night.
He found another one of his students among the mass of strangers, his appearance and aura as unreadable as ever.
Kakashi didn't understand why exactly Sasuke was in the middle of a city that thrived in human trafficking. Truth to be told it seemed like one of the last places he expected to bump into the Uchiha. Interest sparked inside him but now wasn't the time to interview old friends. Maybe later he could search for him and sate his curiosity. For now, he had to make sure Sakura left this auction house with him, otherwise the mission would have more than a few complications.
Why was Sasuke trying to buy Sakura anyways? An attempt to save her? There's a high possibility that he truly believes this act, that the medic really had been captured and was now on sale. After all, it's not like Sasuke knew they were assigned on an undercover mission.
"One million and fifty thousand ryo." Kakashi called out, hoping to catch Sasuke's eye. He knew that the younger boy would be able to look underneath the several layers of genjutsu he had protected his identity with, maybe then Sasuke would stop bidding if he saw that his opponent was actually his teacher.
The Uchiha didn't even flinch.
"One million and one hundred thousand ryo."
"One million and one fifty thousand." He countered, hoping the younger man couldn't possibly have more money on him.
"One million and two hundred."
"One million and two hundred fifty."
Sasuke didn't even bother looking back. His eyes were glued to the pinkette currently on stage.
"One million and five hundred thousand."
Gasps and sounds of awe echoed around the room at the last bid.
Fuck. That went beyond the budget the Hokage had given him to make their act believable.
"Yes sir! Do I hear one million and five hundred fifty thousand?"
When no one responded, the announcer smiled, gavil at the ready.
"Going once!..."
Kakashi scrambled for what to do. Walk up to the Uchiha and tell him that they were on a mission? No, too many witnesses. It could compromise everything. He grit his teeth in frustration. This was not going according to plan.
"Going twice!..."
He glanced at Sakura, wanting nothing more than to apologize for screwing up what should have been the easiest part of the job.
"And sold to the young man in black!"
He sighed in frustration.
Tsunade was going to kill him.
Sakura couldn't believe it.
She'd been chasing Sasuke Uchiha for most of her life and the one time she didn't want to see him, that's when he decided to conveniently show up. She picked up her slack jaw at the ridiculous amount of money he and her sensei were throwing in the air, breathing in deep through her nose in hopes to calm herself down.
It didn't help that he was staring at her. His gaze made her feel even more exposed, even without the aid of his sharingan.
She swallowed nervously, meeting his gaze with her own. When she thought about meeting him again in the future, it definitely wasn't in a crowd of men or with a collar around her neck and with him going toe to toe with her sensei.
Everyone in the room was paying close attention to their bidding war as well, their eyes darting back and forth between the two men who were bidding rather aggressively, eager to see how desperate they were for this particular slave, excited to see how much they were willing to pay.
Dammit!
Okay, there was still time to fix this.
Maybe Sasuke was just being nice, thinking she actually had gotten trapped-
That thought instantly worsened her mood.
The last thing she needed was for him to think she was the same weak and defenseless girl, always waiting for him or Naruto to save her. Frustration burned inside as well as embarrassment. He just had to show up when she was dressed like this didn't he?
"And that marks the end of the auction! Such an exciting evening I'd say. Alright gentlemen, for those who have purchased one of our merchandise, you will be led by our staff to the waiting rooms where your slaves will be eagerly awaiting your arrival. For those who were sadly outbid, thank you for attending and we hope to see you here once again very soon!"
The announcer pounded his gavill giddily, clearly excited to have made so much money in just one night. The audience clapped politely, signalling the end of the auction. Soon enough, her chain was pulled by one of the guards and she was led behind velvet curtains, down a staircase and through huge sliding doors, revealing a room painted a deep blue with forest green carpets.
She had to give it to whoever furnished the rooms and designed the city as a whole. Simply put, it was amazing. Too bad it housed scum and abused men and women. Otherwise it would have been easy to appreciate this place's architecture and beauty.
Several girls were lined up against the wall, heads down, eyes blank and mouths shut. All of them dressed just like her but in different colors and styles. Obviously Yumi took pride in her work, making sure that each of them looked appealing to the men they were being sold to. But their outfits weren't Sakura's focus. No. She took note of their bodies, if there was any sign of abuse. The medic in her quickly scanned their appearances. To the average person, they wouldn't see anything besides perfect make up and a very risqè choice of clothing. But her eyes knew better. Even Yumi's skilled hands couldn't properly mask the tell tale bruises and red markings around their wrists and ankles or the scratches here and there.
Anger bubbled at the sight of their tearstained faces and slumped postures. Their eyes looked empty. As if they lost all hope and they were already dead.
The guard pulled much harder than necessary and placed her at the end of the line, his eyes lingering far too long on her breasts and legs making her ball her fists at his blatant ogling and disrespect.
Thankfully he disappeared through the doors, leaving the pinkette alone with the other females.
She glanced to her right, noticing a young girl, much younger than her, sobbing quietly to herself. Her big doe eyes were swollen because of the crying and her eye make up was running now, black streaks cut across her otherwise perfectly made up face, but clearly she didn't care.
Sakura knew that she shouldn't get involved or speak to any of them. Conversing with another slave might just complicate things even further. Yet when the girl let out small little whimpers of pure unadulterated fear, she cracked.
"Shhh...it's okay. Don't cry." Sakura whispered under her breath, eyeing the door in case anyone would come in suddenly.
The girl froze. But still the medic kept speaking, hoping to convey any kind of message to give the girl some strength or courage, something good to latch onto in this dark place. After all, she knew how it felt to be completely helpless and afraid.
"You're strong. You can handle this. Just don't give up."
Finally those big brown eyes looked at her.
Fear, anxiety, sadness reflected back at her in those depths.
It wasn't fair.
No one should be subjected to this. To be bought and sold and treated like you were nothing but a source of pleasure and amusement.
"They can't own you if you don't let them. Despite what these mean…" She fingered the collar around her neck. "You are your own person. Never forget that."
The girl's eyes widened a fraction then resumed looking straight at the floor as if Sakura hadn't spoken at all.
Disappointment filled her at her failed attempt to help a fellow woman out.
A loud bang brought the pinkette back to reality. The doors were now open and in came a group of men. Although they had different ages, looks and sizes, one thing remained the same; the smug, superior expression plastered on their faces. As if they owned the world and the girls present had only one use, one sole purpose which was to pleasure them.
She bit the inside of her cheek, hard, to keep from yelling obscenities at them.
"Here you are gentlemen, your prizes, all ready to go! Once again, I do appreciate how much you've spent for these lovely ladies. Enjoy!"
Sakura really really wanted to punch that giddy smile off the announcer's face.
One by one the girls were dragged away by their chains, little whimpers or cries of distress leaving their painted lips.
Finally it was her turn.
It's fine. Once we're alone I can explain this isn't what it looks like.
But despite her attempts to calm herself down, worries, questions and thoughts buzzed around her head at a frantic pace.
How would Sasuke react? It's been almost a year since she'd last seen him. The day he left had been imprinted in her memory, bittersweet and filled with longing. She watched as his figure became nothing more than a small dot on the dirt road that led to the world beyond konoha's gates, away from everyone, from her.
A part of her still hoped back then.
But now?
Now Sakura learned to let go of her fantasies.
She finally let go of her dream that somewhere along his journey, he would finally realize the depth of her love for him and that he might feel the same way.
Holding on to a hope like that did more damage she realized. Because of that hope, she chose to save herself for him, avoiding any other men who showed any romantic interest in her like the plague. Now she only felt regret for missed opportunities at happiness.
But standing here in front of him, albeit in nothing but lacy underwear, she felt glad. In all honesty there was some relief. At least he was safe and alright. Not that she expected any different. Obviously he was strong enough to handle himself out in the world. But it gave her some reassurance, seeing him here in person.
But then came the incredulity. What the hell was he doing here in the first place? Wasn't his intention to see the world through new eyes? Walk on the path of redemption?
Somehow being in a slave auction didn't scream 'atonement for my sins'.
It was quiet for a long time and eventually she couldn't take it anymore, impatience biting at her. Maybe he left? She didn't know which was worse, that he appeared out of thin air or he simply vanished again. Despite her better judgement, she looked up and was surprised to see Sasuke so close, his dark eyes calculating as he tilted his head to the side as if examining her.
Her breath hitched at their close proximity.
"Sasu-"
She didn't even get to finish her sentence.
The man from the auction noticed her looking up and hastily stepped between them, slapping Sakura soundly on the cheek.
The crack filled the air, stunning the pinkette into silence.
"How dare you look at your master without his permission! And to speak out of turn? It's unforgivable!" He hissed into her ear, spit flying and landing on her cheek.
Disgust and anger rolled in her gut, threatening to spill over and into her fists. Punching this poor excuse of a man was so tempting. It truly was. But she couldn't afford any more complications. Not when so much was at stake here. So she settled for digging her nails into the flesh of her thighs, hoping to tear the ridiculous stockings in the process of containing her rage.
She felt the announcer's presence loom over her, maybe he was going to slap her again, but as suddenly as he appeared, he was out of her personal space. Curious, Sakura looked up discreetly, from beneath her lashes and spotted the man standing several feet away, sweat beading his forehead while his hands were held in front of him as if in surrender.
Sakura wondered where his earlier confidence had gone but then she noticed Sasuke was staring him down, his sharingan spinning lazily, glowing a bloody red.
"M-many apologies sir. I was merely disciplining your new pet." He stuttered pitifully.
The dark haired man narrowed his eyes, effectively frightening the man even further before replying.
"Don't worry. I'll be sure to punish her severely later."
God. It's been ages since she heard his voice. It's as if nothing has changed. He still sounded calm, cool, collected. He appeared completely at ease here, making Sakura wonder again just what he was doing in a place like this.
"O-oh are you certain sir? I can find you a better one! One that is more compliant and well behaved. Maybe even more well endowed?"
Her brow twitched in irritation at his insults.
The man was back to licking the buyer's shoes and had no qualms about being an absolute ass about it. His voice returning to its sugary sweet tone, no longer simmering with anger or quaking with fear.
Sakura mentally rolled her eyes at this.
"That won't be necessary."
"Would you prefer a redhead? Maybe blonde or a brune-"
"As I said, that won't be necessary."
The way Sasuke spoke left no room for argument.
"Of course sir! But be sure to return! After all, no one can ever have too many slaves." A hearty laugh followed his crude statement.
She was sure she was drawing blood at this point.
"Hn. One is enough for me."
Her chain was pulled abruptly, taking her with Sasuke to god knows where. She only hoped that Kakashi was safe and would try to contact her soon. If not, then at least start tracking Ino.
The walk was unbearable. Each time she tried to catch his eye or whisper under her breath, a guard was closeby, watching her every move. If not, Sasuke didn't bother to pay attention to her at all. The only sign that he was still aware of her presence was the occasional tug of her chain, indicating a change in direction or for her to hurry up.
They rounded a few more corners until they finally arrived in front of a building, most likely a hotel if the number of people going in and out with bags were any indication. He went ahead, keeping his fingers tight on her chain, much to her irritation.
Passing by the front desk, up six flights of stairs that were absolute hell for Sakura thanks to the heels squeezing her feet uncomfortably, they stopped in front of a deep rosewood door. Anxiety and impatience swirled inside her. This was what she wanted, to finally be alone with Sasuke and talk to him but why did the concept of being alone with the Uchiha suddenly made butterflies erupt in her belly?
She stamped down the feelings she thought she had successfully buried away in her heart, fully intent on focusing on the task at hand.
The second the door snapped shut behind her, she was ready to explain everything. Well maybe leave out the details of their mission and why exactly they were here but at least tell Sasuke that this was simply an act. And Kakashi was somewhere probably looking for her to fix this sticky situation. But before she could even start, he spoke.
"Annoying."
Sakura didn't move, processing the word that left his lips and the utter gall he had to not even face her while speaking.
Wait.
Did he actually-
"Excuse me?" She demanded, feeling her temper flicker into existence.
"Oh? Are you deaf as well as helpless?"
Sasuke removed his sword before pouring himself a glass of water, speaking casually as if talking down to her was nothing to him.
Her eye twitched at his rude commentary.
"No Sasuke. My hearing is just fine. And if I'm understanding you correctly, you've just called me annoying for no reason at all."
"There is a reason." He turned, his empty sleeve following the movement.
"Care to elaborate?"
Calm. Remain calm.
"It's as if we're back to our genin days and I have to rescue you again. Only this time, you're wearing less clothes."
Oh hell no.
There is a limit to how much Sakura's patience can endure for a day. Being ogled at and treated like a thing? Fine. Having to walk around like a kicked puppy on a leash? Bearable. Wearing an outfit that was basically scraps of cloth tied together with a string then being paraded around before faceless men? Tolerable. But this? Being disrespected by a friend, someone who actually knew her? Unacceptable.
"Annoying?" Disbelief etched onto her features, she faced him, her tone sugary sweet yet her eyes were the complete opposite. "Let me tell you what's actually annoying Sasuke."
Her earlier embarrassment completely forgotten, the medic strode up to the Uchiha and glared, ignoring the fact that she was invading his personal space by pointing an accusing finger at his emotionless face.
"It's being chained and treated like an animal instead of a human being. It's having you pop out of nowhere and ruin everything. It's listening to you be an ass!"
He blinked.
"Listen here, I don't know what's going on in your head right now, why you just show up after years of silence and I'm going to ignore the fact you're in the middle of a terrible city with equally terrible men who are nothing but perverted pigs for dealing in a slave trade! And just to be clear, I didn't need to be rescued!"
If he was surprised by her outburst, he (as usual) didn't show it. He merely sighed and regarded her with hooded eyes, appearing very bored.
"The fact you're wearing that-" He eyed the metal gleaming under the lights.
"Is enough proof that you needed my help."
Her eyebrows shot up at his deadpan expression.
Unbelievable.
She wasn't sure whether to be pleased that he bought their act or irritated that he believed she was weak enough to be overwhelmed by a measly little collar and chain.
"Did you truly think I would allow myself to be captured like this?" Glaring daggers at him, Sakura held up the chain with one hand while the other gestured to the metal around her neck.
"Well, it wouldn't be the first time you've gotten caught."
It was almost painful to admit he was in fact right, but she still held her ground, a stubborn glint in her eye.
"I didn't need your help." She ground out.
"I apologize. I didn't know that you wanted a profession in the art of slavery instead of that of a kunoichi." He muttered dryly.
Her jaw dropped in shock.
"Seriously? We both know I want to save lives, not waste mine. Besides, we're on a mission! This, all of this, is just an act to get inside and-" The pinkette abruptly stopped then bit her lip.
Wait. This was a highly covert assignment. Although he was no longer a missing nin, the details of their assignment are't meant to be shared.
Sasuke noticed her slip up and immediately latched onto it, curiosity burning in his dark eyes.
Uh-oh.
"Why would you need to go undercover?" He mused.
She shook her head, refusing to reply.
But Sasuke, being the arrogant and intelligent man that he is, pressed on, determined to find out what she was about to say.
"Sakura."
This time he took control, stepping closer so she had no choice but to look up at him.
"Tell me."
"Or what? You'll use your almighty sharingan?"
"Hn. That would be a waste of chakra because I know you'll tell me what I want to know."
"What makes you so sure?"
"Because we have the same enemy here."
"I highly doubt that."
A tense silence passed between them. Each staring the other down, unwilling to relent. Sasuke narrowed his eyes then spoke, undeterred by her stubborn behaviour, putting everything together using that genius mind of his.
"I'm assuming you're not alone."
"Well-"
"And you can't implicate konoha in this at all. Otherwise you'd probably have Naruto on this mission, tails blazing and making a huge mess everywhere."
"That's-"
"Since you're playing a part of a slave, you can't use your monstrous strength. Something I'm sure your mentor wouldn't have missed which explains this." His hand hovered over her collar for a brief moment.
"Don't." She backed up a bit, trying to put a safe distance between their bodies. He didn't let her get far. For every step she took moving back, he merely went forward until her back touched the door.
"I couldn't feel your chakra earlier but I didn't doubt it was you on that stage. No one else has pink hair."
Dammit. Maybe she should've invested in some hair dye.
"But tracking never was your specialty so it either leaves Kiba or Kakashi. I'm sure it was one of them back at the auction bidding against me. Most probably under a henge. Since you're here, a medic is obviously needed, meaning there's a chance injury may occur or...you're attempting to save someone."
Screw him and his ridiculously high IQ. Well, just because he put two and two together doesn't mean he should feel like he has the upper hand here. Choosing to appear unaffected, she put on a bored expression.
Sakura clapped sardonically.
"Congratulations Sasuke. You figured it out. Can I leave now?"
"No."
The pinkette rolled her eyes at this.
"Ha! People are wrong about you Sasuke. You actually do have a sense of humor." A forced laugh left her lips.
"Hn."
Sakura straightened, her eyes narrowing.
"You're actually serious?"
He nodded.
"Why the hell not?! All the money you spent earlier didn't actually buy me. I'm not a submissive lapdog you can just boss around." She growled, feeling her temper rising at his ability to boss her around. Did he really think she would just do whatever he wanted? Just like that? Oh boy, he's up for a rude awakening then.
"I know. But like I said, we have the same enemy and I believe this situation can benefit us mutually."
Her ire only grew at the realization that their conversation wasn't going anywhere and they were simply wasting time. Time that could have been spent looking for her best friend.
"No, no it doesn't. This actually sets me back. I could have been with my partner searching for-"
"For?"
A frustrated sigh left her lips.
"Just leave it. I'm leaving to find the rest of my team."
With a determined nod, she turned on her heel (thank god she didn't falter or slip) and had her hand on the doorknob, ready to leave and get some work done. The sooner she found Kakashi, the sooner they could search for Ino and the sooner they could go home, away from this place and all its horrors.
"Sakura."
His voice was steady. Despite speaking softly, she heard every word, feeling its weight and the shock from it. She tried very hard to ignore the pleasant shiver that went through her at hearing her name leave his lips.
"I'm planning to dismantle this entire city from the inside."
Her hand on the doorknob froze.
"Weeks ago some rogue nin, all wearing black and red tried to capture me. They failed of course. Days later even more of them, still in the same uniform, came again. I let one escape, followed him here and found out their plans to enslave men and women."
Denying she was interested was a lie. So slowly, she turned around, watching Sasuke as he explained.
"And let's say those people have chakra or special bloodline techniques? They fetch an even higher price."
Sakura's eyes widened in horror.
"That's why I'm here. To stop them."
His jaw was set and his eyes intense.
"So, do we or don't we have the same enemy?"
Well when he put it that way. It seemed that, yes they did. But that left another question floating around in the pinkette's mind.
"That still doesn't explain why you won't let me leave." Suspicion lacing her tone.
Not missing a beat, he replied easily.
"I'm targeting the boss of this whole operation. This way there will be less casualties. But after some doing some recon, I found out he doesn't attend the small gatherings like the auction, barely shows his face to outsiders or underlings only to his investors or those who've earned his trust."
A lightbulb came to life in her head at the sudden revelation.
"I get it." Her eyes widening in understanding.
"How can you get close to a slavedriver without having a slave for yourself."
Everything started to make sense now. All the dots were connecting.
"That's why you were at the auction tonight."
"Hn."
But one more thing didn't add up...
"Wait. Wouldn't whoever is in charge notice you? I mean his guys did try to bring you in."
"I've already taken care of that by spreading some false information. Telling people that I'm interested in their trade."
Figures that he thought of everything. But she didn't expect anything less other than sheer perfection in the form of a well thought out plan. Yet that didn't mean she could just change the priority of their mission.
"But this isn't part of the plan." She rubbed her temples in small slow circles, speaking more to herself than Sasuke.
"Can't you find someone else?" She tried, desperate to avoid any more complications.
"I already spent a large sum on you. It'd be suspicious to just lose my slave after buying her." Sasuke pointed out to which Sakura covered her face in her hands.
A forty hour surgery with no breaks was preferable to this.
As if sensing her trepidation, he spoke, his tone less demanding but still strong.
"Wouldn't it be easier for you to search for whoever it is you're looking for with me? In the short amount of time I've been here, I've already managed to set up meetings with this city's major operators. And I know time isn't something you can afford to waste."
It was tempting. It really was. This way, she could find Ino and free all the other slaves. Every single one of them could be saved. The only thing holding her back was a certain silver haired nin and a buxom blonde, both her teachers.
Finally, she decided.
"I need to talk to my partner first."
"Do you need his permission?"
"His advice."
"This is an undercover mission correct?"
Sakura didn't respond.
"Meaning once you find who you're looking for, you leave. What about all the other slaves here?"
Low blow. Sasuke knew how she couldn't say no to saving more lives. She simply couldn't resist. It wasn't in her nature to.
Green eyes snapped to his.
"Why do you care about all these people anyway?"
Black endless eyes stared back.
"I'm merely atoning for my past sins."
She looked at him, searching his features, looking for any lies or half truths.
What she saw reflected in those black eyes was firm resolve.
Ugh. Why did she have to get stuck on this mission?
"Fine."
"Hn-"
"But only if my partner and my shishou agrees."
Sasuke didn't look pleased.
Convincing her former teammate to go out for some food in hopes that Kakashi would find them so she could explain the entire situation as well as the proposed plan, was not easy.
Turns out Sasuke preferred staying indoors for a meal, away from the hustle and bustle of the city and its people. Not that she could blame him, the practices here made her sick to her stomach.
The rich and influential laughed and dined like royalty while they threw their scraps at their slaves as if they were stray dogs. Some of them had the dignity to ignore such jabs while others, the starved ones, eagerly jumped and scrambled for the bones and crumbs, hoping to lick some meat off to quell their aching hunger.
The chain around her neck tugged impatiently, bringing her out of her thoughts and into step with the dark haired man.
"We'll put an end to this." He said quietly under his breath, his eyes staring straight ahead and his lips barely moved, as if he hadn't spoken at all.
Sakura didn't reply, knowing that anyone could be looking at them but she didn't have to respond. They both knew that he understood her anger for this place and the men behind it. And despite his rude comments and ice block behaviour, she was grateful that she didn't have to go through this alone.
Minutes later they arrived in a restaurant. It was tasteful with its dark rosewood ceilings and matching floorboards, candles littered each table, giving the whole setting a relaxed atmosphere. Inside there were tables surrounded by couches, a long bar with countless colored bottles that were obviously alcohol, enough to make even her sensei weep with joy, while the outside had several small tables with pale pink pillows for chairs. As they neared, she noticed a young woman holding a stack of menus at the entrance. Around her slim neck was a dark purple collar, inlaid with golden flowers and surprisingly had no chain. She greeted them at the front, a perfect smile on her pretty face. She was dressed provocatively for sure. But definitely not as exposed as her. Her abdomen was bare as well as her arms but the whole outfit didn't scream 'sex' like hers did.
It was definitely confusing. How is it some women didn't seem as scared as the others? The collar around her neck definitely showed her status but there was no chain and she didn't give off the aura of someone who was frightened for her life. Maybe she had a nicer benefactor than most?
Sakura could only hope Ino was as lucky.
"Good evening! Please follow me, I have the perfect table for you sir."
The waitress was about to lead them inside when Sasuke stopped her.
"I prefer to sit outside."
Good. This way Kakashi will be able to find them easier if they were out in the open.
She nodded vigorously, eager to please a paying customer.
"Of course! Excellent choice."
Soon enough Sasuke was seated and just when Sakura was about to take the seat across from him, a slight pain in her neck halted her movements. Green eyes glanced accusingly at him.
"Slaves don't sit at the table."
Right.
She bit her lip, swallowing her pride and proceeded to sit on the ground.
He ordered tea, tempura and tomatoes.
Heh. Some things never change.
A small smirk played on her lips.
He must have noticed because he glanced at her.
"Yes?"
"Oh? You're allowing me to speak?" She let out a dramatic gasp.
"Hn. You're being annoying."
"Are you ordering me to be quiet then?"
Dark eyes narrowed ever so slightly.
She was playing with fire.
"Careful, slave."
And that was Sasuke's specialty.
But of course, that never stopped her from speaking her mind before.
Green eyes clashed with black, her tone challenging as she replied.
"Or what, master?"
He opened his mouth to speak, most probably to deliver a scathing reply when another party joined their table, his head of silver hair as tousled as ever.
"Good evening. I couldn't help but notice you look familiar."
His eyes crinkled at the stoic young man before him.
"May I join you?"
"Hn."
Sasuke gave a curt nod, his eyes flashing red for a brief moment, searching intently at the newcomer. Eventually the tightness around his shoulders relaxed ever so slightly, satisfied that the man hidden under layers of genjutsu was none other than their sensei.
The older man settled himself on a pillow, getting comfortable before pouring himself a cup of steaming tea.
"Kaka-" She began, whispering, being cautious in case someone was looking their way.
"Kaito." Her sensei corrected, a secret smile playing on his lips.
It was still odd, seeing Kakashi unmasked like this.
How many years had she, along with team seven, wonder what he hid underneath that simple layer of cloth? Memories of their conversations and bets on what kind of facial affliction he had to be ashamed of ran through her mind. And the only thing she thought of right now was - they were all very very wrong.
Staring at anyone was rude, especially one's shockingly handsome teacher so she immediately looked down.
"Right." Sakura nodded, keeping her eyes fixed on the table.
"So what are you doing here in the city of sin? Pleasure or business?" The silver haired nin questioned.
"Both."
"Hm. Strange. You don't strike me as someone who has trouble attracting women. Why buy one?"
"I have specific needs."
Sitting out here in the open had its benefits. Because of it, tracking them down was much easier. But conversing about mission details? Not so much.
They were already speaking in code, Sakura could tell. They were both extremely intelligent and could read in between the lines. Yet even then, details like Sasuke's true intentions of buying her can't be explained well through certain words and expressions.
If only there was a way to talk to Kakashi out here but discreetly. Was that even possible?
As if sensing her dilema, the copy nin leaned forward, addressing Sasuke but keeping his eyes on her.
"May I see your slave?"
Her head snapped up at the request.
"I was hoping to win her tonight. But sadly I was outbid. You don't mind, do you?"
"Hn." He grunted, which meant, no he didn't mind.
But Sakura did.
"W-wait-"
"Go to him, slave."
Ugh. Annoying little…
Praying to god for more patience, she sighed then stood up slowly, avoiding just about everyone's eyes in sheer embarrassment and irritation.
A large hand, warm and calloused, touched her own, tentative yet strong and sure.
Then suddenly she was pulled hard, gasping in surprise, she fell-
-right on his lap.
Oh god.
She was sitting intimately on her sensei's legs.
In lingerie.
With his hands on her, one resting on her hip while the other curled around her waist.
A blush rose to her cheeks immediately.
He pulled her even closer, molding their bodies together, his breath hot against her neck.
Despite him being completely clothed, she could feel his body heat emanating, warming her practically naked form. She squirmed, surprised with their new position and not comfortable in the slightest. Feeling extremely small, caged within his arms, she attempted to push away, blushing to the roots of her hair.
"W-what do you think-"
Her stuttering was interrupted by a voice whispering into the shell of her ear.
"Just bear this for now Sakura. This way it's less likely people will suspect anything."
Goosebumps broke out all over at his deep voice.
Okay. That made sense. This way she could tell him her entire conversation with Sasuke without risking anyone's cover. However that didn't make sitting in your much older teacher's lap any easier.
"So tell me everything."
It was hot. Despite the cool evening air and her lack of proper clothing, she felt much too warm.
"U-uhm."
Her mind blanked.
God. What was wrong with her? Why was she stuttering like a certain pale eyed violet haired friend she knew.
"What did you two talk about?"
His voice. When did his voice get so low and husky?
Sakura steeled herself. She could do this. Other kunoichi were doing much more than what was being asked of her now. Besides, Ino's life depended on her. Backing out now because of a little shyness? Ino-pig would scoff, flip her platinum blonde hair, and dare Sakura to do better.
Come on! If she could mend broken bones, perfect her chakra control and memorize thousands of medical texts, then she can definitely do this.
Twisting a bit in his hold, she placed an arm over his shoulder so she had better access, leaving practically no space between them, her cheek now next to his.
He had shaved, she noticed.
For a brief moment their eyes met.
He was wearing contacts. Blue ones. For some reason, it didn't look as good as his original mismatched gaze.
Ignoring the strange flutter in her stomach and labelling it as hunger for dinner, she leaned forward, explaining everything quickly in hushed whispers.
To any onlookers, they wouldn't see anything out of the ordinary, simply a man enjoying his slave.
That didn't mean it made it any less awkward and weird.
"Sasuke's here to end the whole slave trade."
Her lips accidentally touched the skin right below his ear. Sakura was sure her cheeks were going to melt off from all the blushing but she still continued.
"Some of their guys tried to capture him. Apparently any slaves with a bloodline technique are highly sought after here."
"Mm-hm."
His hands felt increasingly warm on her exposed body. The pinkette wondered how he felt, having his much younger student practically naked on his lap. But it seemed like he wasn't bothered at all, if his relaxed posture and calm expression was anything to go by.
"H-he found out we're here on a mission. Well, it kinda slipped out. It's my fault. Sorry Kakash-Kaito." She quickly amended, making sure to memorize his new name.
"Continue."
"He wants to work together. Also he already made contacts here, has meetings with the higher ups and honestly it's tempting."
"I hope you're not getting side tracked here Sakura."
His tone hardened a bit, like he was admonishing her.
"What? Of course not! I'm not tempted by Sasuke. I meant his proposition. With the three of us working here, finding Ino would be easy." She whispered frantically into his ear.
"And we could free everyone." She added in a smaller voice.
"Ahhh…"
A beat of silence passed between them.
"I'll contact Genma tonight. Have him relay the change of plans to the Hokage."
"Does that mean you agree?" She questioned hope clear in her voice.
He sighed as if spent from a whole day running laps with Gai.
"It means there's a chance we can pull this off, with her permission of course. And I'm not keen on this business expanding either...but the top priority is Ino. Understood?"
"Of course."
"That means-"
The hand on her hip left to angle her face towards him.
There wasn't any mask, no barrier between them. So she could feel his breath fanning across her face and his eyes focusing intently on hers.
Oh my.
He really was attractive.
His face was clear of any blemishes, not that she minded any scars or marks, his nose straight and narrow with a jawline as sharp as tenten's best kunai. And his lips, men shouldn't have such soft and sensual looking lips.
Wait.
Wait.
Wait.
Did she just describe her sensei's lips?
Dear god. Was she so sexually starved that she found her extremely late, icha-icha loving sensei appealing?
Sakura found herself wishing that she could turn back time, take Ino's advice back then when it came to having more fun with men and get some experience in the world of sex and sensuality. Clearly this mission called for a kunoichi with more confidence, experience and knowledge, especially with her own body and sexuality, something she found herself sorely lacking if she was already worked up from just sitting on a man's lap.
"-no distractions."
She processed his last words.
The implication was very clear.
Sasuke Uchiha was off limits.
Speaking of the dark haired man, Sakura almost completely forgot about him. Turning her head a bit to the side, she snuck a glance at the quiet man across from them and was surprised to find him staring at them, eyes watching their every move. This only fueled her blush even more. Wonderful. Not only was she being affected by her sensei, but she had an audience too.
Well, she wasn't planning to go back down that rabbit hole again and she made sure to tell her mentor that. He nodded in reply. But there was a glint in his eyes, a look that told her that he was doubtful. Ignoring that thought and choosing to prove him wrong, she nodded before speaking again.
"Understood Kaito."
His nose brushed the side of her cheek as he came closer, murmuring into her ear. The touch sent a jolt of electricity through her body, she only hoped he didn't notice her reaction.
"And you did well tonight Sakura. I know this must be difficult. And honestly I had my doubts, but as usual, you've proved me wrong."
Her earlier anxieties vanished at his simple words.
"Thank you." She replied.
He smiled then.
It was small but real and again that strange fluttering erupted in her belly.
Food.
She needed some food.
That's what that feeling was.
As quickly as their conversation began, it ended with Kakashi letting her go and then he directed his attention to the man in front of him.
It didn't take a genius to figure out Sasuke was listening in on their conversation all along. He didn't say anything, only continued to bite into a tomato, its juices running down his fingers which he proceeded to wipe off with a napkin.
"You are a very lucky man indeed. A shame I lost tonight." Kakashi pursed his lips for a moment, as if lost in thought before giving Sasuke an innocent smile.
"But maybe you don't mind sharing her either?"
Translation : For future meetings where we need to speak again for further discussion on mission details.
"Hn." Sasuke grunted again, finishing off his last tomato.
"Splendid. I'll be sure to find you again when I am in need of your services." He nodded to the medic who was now back on her position on the floor.
The copy nin stood up abruptly, bowed briefly to Sasuke and disappeared in the throngs of people, leaving the pinkette alone with a brooding Uchiha.
Her stomach growled loudly.
And Sasuke didn't offer her anything.
Selfish little…
As curses, so colorful and crude in nature that even Inner Sakura gaped, filled her mind, the man sitting so peacefully called for the bill, paid for his dinner, left a very nice tip for the waitress and tugged on her chain.
Sakura grit her teeth in anger.
Really?
This was pretend. The very least he could do was sneak her some leftovers!
Annoyed beyond belief, she followed him, glaring daggers (she was losing count how many times at this point) at the back of his spiky black head.
They stopped at a store and he ordered her to wait outside. Like a damn dog!
She huffed and counted all the ways she could maybe smother him with a pillow when he finally came out, a paper bag in hand. Still he barely acknowledged her presence.
Again he led through the crowded streets until they arrived back in the hotel. Her heels were pure torture at this point. They really should include this in kunoichi training. Those things were positively lethal. How could anyone walk in anything higher than two inches?
As soon as the door closed behind her, she opened her mouth to deliver a well practiced speech of how feeding her was definitely part of the deal, otherwise he could forget about her help, when he shoved the paper bag he was carrying into her arms.
"What?"
Sasuke was already gone, his sword leaning against the bedside table.
Sakura could hear the shower running.
Hesitantly, she peeked into the white paper bag and her eyes widened at its contents.
Plastic containers filled to the brim with syrup coated anko dumplings and a cup of hot tea.
She glanced at the bathroom door, unbelieving.
Then a small smile played on her lips.
Maybe she wouldn't smother him with a pillow tonight.
Hello again!
I just wanna say thank you so much for the reviews! I'm honestly blown away by the positive response I got from the first chapter. It was just a small baby plot bunny that poofed into existence and I wasn't sure whether or not to continue. But all your support really encouraged me and got my imagination flowing. Actually this chapter was supposed to be longer but I already reached over 8k words (O.O)
I hope you enjoyed this chapter as much as I had fun writing it!
Again, stay safe everyone!
MKSS