I hope you guys enjoy this chapter. It might seem a little harsh. If you hate it or think it was a bit overkill, please let me know.

Chapter 24

Sakura steadies herself against the large mahogany desk. She feels as though she has received a blow to the head, her vision blurs and in the background, she faintly hears Shikamaru's concerned voice asking if she is okay. Biting the inside of her cheek, she focuses on breathing slowly and deeply. She feels a light tap on her shoulder, looking up she sees Shikamaru with a look of concern on his face. She forces a solemn smile then utters "I'm okay. Just shocked."

He hands her a small triangular paper cup filled with water, which she greatly appreciates. Her throat is dry and she feels nausea slowly creeping in. Wanting to preserve the little pride she has left; she attempts to brush off her intense reaction by casually stating she needs to return to work.

Shikamaru nods his head and silently walks her to the door. He has been and is still baffled by the strong emotions Sakura holds for a man who has yet to reciprocate her feelings. In childhood, Shikamaru's inexperience and ignorance surmised Sakura's unwavering feelings to being that of a troublesome female. He assumed women were problematic, shallow counterparts who were controlled by their emotions and superficial inclinations.

With experience and observation of his peers, Shikamaru corrected this biased outlook. While he still believes women are controlled by their emotions, he knows most need more than the superficial traits Sakura can't seem to let go of. Her obsession and unwillingness to let go of the Uchiha for his good looks and prestigious reputation (it's the only reasoning Shikamaru can fathom) contrasts strongly with the strong-willed persona she usually emanates; one of a strong, confident and independent woman. He wonders why she is unable to let go and move on.

"Do you happen to know where Hanabi is?" Sakura inquires quietly as she steps out into the hallway.

Shikamaru's expression remains unchanged as he answers, "She's training her team today in a park near the East Gate."

Sakura nods and as she is trying to slip away, Shikamaru's slightly concerned voice stops her. "Sakura," he says, and Sakura turns her head to look at him. "When you talk to Naruto about Hinata… I think you should thread lightly. He may not show it, but he hasn't yet come to terms with losing his wife and best friend. Don't push him. The best you can do is guide him into making the right decision."

Sakura stares at Shikamaru in complete silence before she eventually lets out a faint hum of approval. Although, unbeknownst to Shikamaru, Sakura has no immediate intention of 'guiding' Naruto into helping Hinata.

After asking a colleague to cover for her, Sakura sits on a concrete park bench observing Hanabi train three members of a genin team. Watching the young group bicker about who is the best shinobi brings back fond memories of her time with Team 7.

One of the genin, a girl with orange pigtails performs a backflip. In midair, she targets a shuriken toward a training post. Completely missing the mark, the shuriken breezes past the wooden post and heads toward Sakura. In the blink of an eye, Hanabi intercepts the adrift weapon. Stifling a laugh, Hanabi returns the item to her student. "Good try, but let's try that when no one is around to lose an eye."

After demonstrating a simple training routine for her students to follow, Hanabi makes her way over to the medical nin.

Sakura watches in amusement as the Hyuga's long Hakama brushes against the dandelion covered field. She wonders how Hanabi is able to fight so adeptly in such constricting clothing.

"How may I help you, Haruno-san?" Hanabi asks with no warmth in her voice.

"I'm here to help Hinata." Hanabi steps off the grassy field and moves toward the paved roadway where the bench is steps closer to the pink-haired female to prevent the exchange from being overheard.

Peering directly into emerald eyes, suspicion and bitterness lace Hanabi's voice as she inquires "Why?". Specifically,Hanabi wants to know why Sakura would help her sister after rebuking her sister's union with Naruto just a few minutes ago.

"I am in the fortunate position to help her." Sakura responds with an arrogant glint in her eye.

"Why would you offer to help my sister, when you've just reminded me of how despicable she is?" Hanabi's brow arches questioningly as she tries to find reason in Sakura's sudden appearance.

Sakura scoffs. There is no doubt in her mind that the shy ex-heiress is someone who should never be trusted again. Truth is, a part of her is even happy that the Hyuga clan is planning to ship Hinata off. Hinata doesn't belong to the village after wronging their hero. But the need to protect Hinata is strong, solely due to the precious cargo she is carrying.

"What I said is true. But children shouldn't have to pay for the sins of their parents."

Hanabi shakes her head in annoyance. She knows most would judge her sister for her infidelity, but she cannot help but grow hostile when the hate is flung so casually in her presence. "Why the sudden concern? You must have had an idea that my clan wouldn't go lightly on Hinata or this child.

"Who else has offered to help? Who else knows of her predicament? No one, right? So, are you going to listen to what I have to offer?" Sakura asks impatiently.

Unfortunately, Sakura's words hold truth. Kurenai was the only person to have reached out since the divorce, but being a single mother with limited resources, she is in no position to help.

With hands impatiently placed on her hips, Hanabi gruffly concedes, "I'm listening."

After witnessing the emotional trauma both of her teammates endured due to the loss of social support from their parents, Sakura has a newfound passion for helping vulnerable, orphaned children. With approval from Naruto and funds from the city, she and Ino operate a mental health facility for young, disadvantaged children. So, her actions to help Hinata's baby wouldn't be deemed suspicious by most and would actually be commended. But Hanabi is right in her apprehension that Sakura has ulterior motives.

For in all honesty, Sakura would've turned a blind eye to the Hyuga's plan for the illegitimate child. Not because she is completely cold-hearted towards something born from Hinata, but because she knows Konoha's system has greatly improved. Nowadays, being sent to an orphanage might fare better than staying in an uncompromising and outdated clan like that of the Hyuga.

But this isn't just any child; this is Sasuke's child. And Sakura would move heaven and earth to protect what is his.

Determined and resolute in her decision, Sakura reveals the reason for wanting to help. "I don't have the power to keep Hinata and the baby together, but I'm willing to adopt the child and provide medical care until the baby is born."

Hanabi continues to question the sudden goodwill toward her sister; why would Sakura adopt this particular child when there are so many other children in need of a home? But her sister's deteriorating health leaves her with no other choice but to accept the only assistance offered.

"Clearly you have a hidden agenda and you're right; I am not in a position to refuse. But I can't help you get custody rights over this child."

Sakura is well aware of this, she knows Hiashi will be in control of handing over the child to the appropriate agency when and if that time comes. However, all Sakura is in need of is a date. With this information, she will know when to call in a favour from the Director of the Konoha orphanage, with whom she is well associated with.

"You just need to be my little informant," Sakura states sanguinely. Hanabi nods, hiding the slight disgust towards Sakura's plans.

With her main task completed, Sakura begins to inquire about Hinata's physiological state – whom she now sees as a vessel or container.

"She's lost a lot of weight. I can barely see her bump; she probably weighs as much as she did before she got married. The Hyuga midwife thinks it's just a bad case of morning sickness. Our father refuses to risk exposing the pregnancy by bringing in medical aid for something so common, but I don't know if the baby will survive if she continues like this." Concern is evident on Hanabi's face.

"And she is not responding to a change of diet?"

"She can barely stomach a cup of ginger tea without throwing up." Hanabi grimaces remembering the stench of vomit that pervades her sister's room.

Assessing the symptoms, Sakura quickly determines; "It could be HE - Hyperemesis gravidarum, an extreme form of morning sickness. Usually, I would run a few tests to rule out other possible conditions, but knowing that she won't be allowed in the hospital we will have to go straight to medication and IV fluids."

Hanabi looks hopeful but then remembers the main adversary Hinata is facing. "But father won't allow treatment."

"Don't worry, I'll get Tsunade-sama's help." Sakura slyly winks at Hanabi.

"Will Naruto allow this?" Though filled with hope, doubt begins to creep in Hanabi's mind as she remembers her former brother-in-law's apathetic response to her earlier supplication.

"I'm not sure what Hinata has said about Naruto but he's not a tyrant. I'll see you tonight or tomorrow morning at the latest. We need to treat this as an emergency, Hinata can very likely be at risk for preterm labor and preeclampsia." Sakura quickly adds, "Which could severely affect the baby." She wants to reinforce to herself as well as Hanabi that her concern is only for the child's wellbeing.

Biting her tongue to stifle pride and suspicion, Hanabi bows lowly and thanks Sakura for her assistance.

With a wave of her hand, Sakura dismisses this feigned attempt at appreciation. "I don't need to be thanked. Just remember to keep your end of the bargain."

Later that evening, as the Hyuga manor begins to wind down, a thunderous knock is heard at the front door. A guard rushes to inform the Hyuga head that the Godaime Hokage demands to see him immediately. Hiashi greets his guest at the threshold of the manor.

He is surprised at this unannounced visit, but more so of the two medical assistants in tow. There is no reason he can think of for their presence, but as Hiashi isn't one to turn away a former leader, he begins to usher them into the formal meeting area. Tsunade wastes no time on formalities and demands to see Hinata.

At first, he refuses her demand politely by stating that his eldest daughter is not up for visitors.

"I'm not here for a social visit. I was informed that a citizen of Konoha requires medical care and I will not leave until she is assessed and treated."

Hearing the commotion from her bedroom, Hanabi joins her father's side. Hiashi shoots an accusatory gaze toward his youngest at Tsunade's declaration, but she doesn't look away from her father as she knows it was the right thing to do.

Tsunade begins to grow impatient. She has the power to escort the recently divorced Hyuga to the hospital, but out of respect for her godson, she has made accommodations to preserve Naruto's privacy. However, she does not have the patience to bargain with a parent who seems to care more about the reputation of his clan than the welfare of his offspring.

Hiashi eventually yields, not wanting to further provoke the blonde female. He also recognizes that he will lose this battle as Tsunade is known to use both her power and brute strength to get her way. He reluctantly motions for Hanabi to escort the trio to Hinata's room. Sighing, he returns to his chambers.

Even though Sakura's accompaniment is not necessary, Tsunade and Shizune are more than sufficient to provide adequate care, she has weaseled her way in to deliver a personal message to Hinata.

Tsunade begins by checking Hinata's blood pressure and moves onto a verbal assessment. Nodding and making small notes on her pad, she comes to the same conclusion as Sakura; Hinata is suffering from HE.

Placing a hand on Hinata's gaunt shoulder, Tsunade offers a few words of encouragement. "Hyperemesis Gravidarum is manageable and easily treated. With the proper medication, you'll be able to eat again and eventually gain weight."

After asking Sakura and Shizune for a moment of privacy, Tsunade sits next to Hinata. "I know you're going through a lot. I can't imagine how stressful this must be. But the stress is taking a toll on your body. You need to find a way to relax. Your health and the baby's are the only things that should matter."

Hinata fiddles with her fingers, unable to look Tsunade in the eye.

"There is no need to feel guilty or ashamed. I may not condone what has transpired between you and Naruto, but I won't judge you. I am in no place to judge, I have committed worse crimes." Tsunade earnestly states referring to her ambivalence toward the village after her beloved's death.

Tsunade retrieves Sakura and Shizune, then bids Hinata goodnight. Shizune and Sakura begin setting up the IV pump. After care has been administered, Sakura informs Shizune she needs to use Hinata's washroom and will meet her in the hallway. Taking advantage of the moment alone, Sakura hovers over Hinata.

Hinata smiles at Sakura, blissfully unaware of Sakura's true intentions. Sakura returns the smile, realizing that Hanabi didn't reveal Sakura's true intentions. Sakura is happy she will be the one to break the news to the pregnant woman.

"Thank you, Sakura. I am happy we can remain friends after everything that has happened. You must know that I didn't intend to hurt Naruto. I just…"

Sakura hisses, cutting off what she believes is self-justification. "He knows you're pregnant!"

"Who does?" Hinata is puzzled. Of course, Naruto is aware of her pregnancy.

Sakura rolls her eyes, a childish habit she has yet to overcome.

"I'm not here because I want to maintain our friendship." It's easy for Sakura to push aside the years of friendship and love she has for the Hyuga, as her fixative love for Sasuke overpowers nearly every other affection and passion she holds dear.

Harshly Sakura informs Hinata "I'm not doing this for you. I'm doing this for Sasuke-kun."

Hinata begins to deny this claim of parentage, but Sakura stops her by saying "He came to the hospital the day you found out you were pregnant."

The shock and dismay that take over Hinata's face makes Sakura certain that it's Sasuke's child. She continues with stronger conviction, "He immediately left when he heard the news."

Hinata wants to defend Sasuke, but her mouth feels like lead. She wants to say that his leaving doesn't necessarily mean he knew the child is his, but she is unable to articulate her thoughts as doubt also cloud her reasoning.

Sakura senses Hinata's internal struggle and adds, "He's smart, Hinata. I'm sure he knew."

Surprisingly Sakura doesn't feel guilty about blatantly lying to Hinata. She is well aware that her revelation that day at the hospital may have led Sasuke to believe the child wasn't his. Though it was unintentional, Sakura is happy for that misunderstanding; it provides her with the opportunity to raise this child with Sasuke.

"He may not be ready now, but until he is, I will ensure that his child is protected."

Though still weak, Hinata's maternal instincts begin to rear. She is not going to sit back while another tries to claim her own. "No offense, but that's not your responsibility. I am the child's mother."

Sakura laughs bitterly. "And what protection can you offer? You don't even have a say in your own future. The child would be better off with me. I have the resources to help."

Hinata pales realizing Sakura's true intentions and tears begin to pool in her eyes. The grueling combination of powerlessness and the feeling of being abandoned overwhelm her. Though she thinks the latter feeling is unjustifiable because her lover never promised commitment.

Sakura is about to dig deeper into Hinata's wounds, when Shizune re-enters Hinata's bedroom. Upon stepping inside the room, Shizune immediately notices the tension and the clear discomfort in her patient's eyes. Without asking she already has a good idea of the conversation that may have transpired in her absence. The intelligent colleague before her is emotionally dense when it came to Sasuke Uchiha. Inwardly sighing, she knows this is information that should be relayed to Tsunade.

Later that night, after her shift has ended, Sakura heads to her office to disrobe and head home. She is surprised to find her superior seated on her table with a small golden flask in hand. Sakura imagines the liquid it contains is of the same colour.

"Tsunade-sama, how may I–"

"Sit!" Tsunade commands and Sakura doesn't hesitate to obey. "You're an adult now. A medical professional and one of the best in this country. You cannot let your personal feelings overcome your professional responsibilities.

Sakura begins to defend herself, but Tsunade gestures for her to stop.

"I knew you would eventually find out who the father is."

Sakura is surprised by Tsunade's declaration. "How did you know?"

"I'm the Godaime. Kakashi and I are responsible for Naruto's well being and public image. Who do you think suggested that it would be best to keep news of the pregnancy out of the media?"

"Does Shizune know as well?" Tsunade nods her head.

Sakura is annoyed that she was once again left in the dark. "Why didn't you say something to me?"

"Because it's Naruto decision to tell you and BECAUSE you act like a lunatic when it comes to the Uchiha."

"That's not tru-" Tsunade interrupts again, beyond frustrated with her mentee.

"Shizune and I will be taking over Hinata's care. You're not allowed to visit the Hyuga compound to represent this hospital."

"I may have feelings for Sasuke, but I never let it interfere with my professional duties." Sakura defends vehemently.

"I'm not dumb, Sakura. I have a good idea of what you may have told Hinata. I won't have my doctors knowingly aggravate my patients."

Tsunade takes a sip of the masked drink as she slips off the desk. Not bothering to look at her protégé, she slams the door upon her departure.

Sakura curses aloud when she knows her mentor is no longer in hearing range. Plopping down on the small black office chair, she rests her forehead on her desk in defeat.

Was Tsunade right? Were her actions extreme? Resembling that of a lunatic?

For nearly her entire life, Sasuke was the center of Sakura's attention. She knew her love was unrequited, but is also aware that Sasuke held some sort of affection for her. More so than any other living female.

She thought that with time, after he defeated his inner demons, he would slowly begin to see her as something more than a teammate. But as more time passed, she began to see the holes in that patched up fantasy.

After her most recent rejection, she was ready to move on. But it was on the premise that he would always be irrevocably unattainable; and not just to her but to any female. Hinata proved this theory wrong.

She cannot comprehend why Hinata was allowed to experience a part of him that he denied all others. The only logic to explain this is manipulation; Hinata must have manipulated her way into Sasuke's bed. Which is why Sakura is unable to be compassionate towards the ex-heiress.

She even believes some gratitude should come her way as she is the best candidate to raise this child. The child may not have its biological mother, but he/she would have a highly, respected parent and one that could provide the best this life could offer. Hinata is not in the position to raise this child, so why be upset if someone in a more advantageous position stepped in to take responsibility?

These musings bring Sakura out of her wallowing. She smiles as she remembers the pact she made with Hanabi. Even if she is unable to administer care to Hinata, she is sure she can convince Hanabi to see things rationally and from her perspective.

TBC

Did I demonize Sakura in this chapter? It wasnt my intention. I just can't see her reacting positively and amicably to these events. I also added in Tsunade's reaction as I feel Sakura needs someone to tell her that her one-side love is unhealthy. In canon, Kakashi enabled this obsessive love. I felt sorry for both Sakura and Sasuke. Sasuke was being forced to love someone when he wasn't emotionally able to and Sakura was being encouraged to seek love from someone who couldn't return the love she had to offer.