Immersion

by SaraNero

With Uchiha Itachi being named the Rokudaime Hokage Sakura Haruno has been assigned to be his right-hand-man and advisor. Now, the pinkette had not only to deal with Tsunade at the Hospital, but an Uchiha who obviously took joy out of driving her insane and messing with her mind. Non-Massacre.

29. Confessions under the Moon

CHAPTER 29- Confessions under the Moon

"Aw, Sakura-chan, did you have to hit me so hard?" The blonde whined, followed by a hiss as Sakura applied some ointment on the pink bruise on his ribs that was gradually getting darker.

"I told you to stop." Sakura returned with a shrug from where she stood between his legs, the blonde that was seated on her kitchen counter shooting her a pout. "What made you think that tackling him while he was still holding me was a good idea in the first place?"

"I wanted to save you from him!" Naruto insisted, flinching when her fingers pressed lightly harder against his bruise and she shot him a disapproving look.

"Yeah, see how that worked out for you." The pinkette huffed before she stepped away to wash her hands. "You know that fighting him would be useless."

Naruto moved to put his shirt back on, his head peeking out from the material as he shot her a bemused look. "Someone has to see if he's willing to fight for you!"

Sakura's face mirrored his confusion as she turned off the water and dried her hands. "So you didn't fight him because you were mad?"

By now Naruto looked at his teammate with open puzzlement, his arm finding its way through the last hole of his shirt before he tipped his head aside.

"Why would I be mad? I like him."

Sakura gaped at the blonde, unable to believe what she was hearing. Was he serious?

"You almost thrashed my apartment because you wanted to see if he cared enough to fight you guys for me?"

Naruto shot her a sheepish grin and shrugged. "I wouldn't let him have you until I was sure that he cared enough to challenge us."

Sakura could only stare at the blonde dumbfounded, torn between feeling touched by his words or frustrated by their male antics. In the end, the pinkette moved over to gently punch his shoulder before she encircled her arms around his middle, a sigh passing her lips.

"You're impossible, you know that?" She mumbled into his shoulder, her heart warming as his familiar scent filled her senses and a smile spread on her lips. "But thank you."

She knew that Naruto fiercely cared about what was his and that he only meant to protect her and her feelings, especially since he knew how much she had suffered during her teen years when she tried to find her place. She appreciated it, even if he sometimes went a little too overboard with it, but it was simply the way he was and for that she loved him.

"That's what family is there for!" Naruto reminded her as he returned the hug with more force than she had expected and Sakura once more found herself wondering just when the hell Naruto had grown so strong.

The pinkette savored the feeling of his hug for a moment longer, soaking up his warmth and the calming effect it had on her, before she pulled back to gently push his forehead with her index finger.

"That still doesn't mean that I have forgiven you yet." The pinkette told him, her smile brightening when she watched his face fall. "I call dips on your Taiyaki."

Naruto's blue eyes widened comically, his expression one akin to horror as Sakura arched a brow and crossed her arms, daring him to protest.

Eventually, the blonde allowed his shoulders to sag with defeat and his face to scrunch up into a pitiful frown. "You're so evil, Sakura-chan."

Sakura shot him a grin before she gently patted his cheek and moved to the bags of food that have arrived a few minutes ago. Naruto watched her as she rummaged through the plastic bags with a melodic hum, the easy smile on her lips one that he hadn't seen in a while.

"You're happy?"

Sakura looked at the blonde that was still seated on the kitchen counter with surprise, the serious expression his face held one she rarely got to see. Sakura instantly knew what, or rather who, he was referring to and couldn't help but feel herself melt.

She was blessed with people who genuinely cared for her well being and happiness, a luxury that not everyone possessed and the pinkette once again wondered what she had done to deserve such love.

"I am."

"He is treating you well?"

Sakura's lips curled upwards into a soft smile at Naruto's grave expression. "He is."

The blonde watched her for another long moment, obviously looking for anything that may tell him otherwise but when he found nothing, he nodded.

It was a few weeks ago when he first noticed that Sakura seemed more at ease and less on edge.

Whereas she was infamous for her bad temper, the blonde couldn't help but notice that even if she was irritated it never lasted as long as usual. At first he thought that she had simply grown tired of stressing herself over trivial things and was too exhausted to bother with them anymore, but it seemed like he was mistaken and that someone was responsible for the change in her.

Itachi was good for her, he decided, and the Uchiha heir balanced her out perfectly.

Sakura was like a storm, bold and powerful. Her overwhelming presence demanded attention no one could deny her, ignited fear in countless and earned respect from just as many. Beneath her astounding exterior however, in the eye of the storm, she possessed a light that was devastatingly breathtaking and reserved only for the ones who were brave enough to fight through the storm. It was reserved for the ones close to her heart, hidden and left to be found only by the ones who proved that they would appreciate both- the storm and the light.

Itachi was her calm, the one who tamed the furious winds and composed them. He could ease even the worst storms until they were nothing but a sharp gust of air, his presence soothing hers and covering her like a warm blanket.

He was the soothing darkness that welcomed her blinding light, two forces dangerous on their own but deadly once united.

Her light needed his soothing darkness, just like his shadows needed her brightness. They suited one another, the blonde concluded, and he was a fool to have not seen it coming earlier even though he would have never thought that Sakura would fall for someone like Itachi, just as he would have never believed that the Uchiha would ever develop an interest in his teammate.

The blonde took in her warm smile as she looked at him, the sparkle in her emerald eyes highlighting their beautiful color and he soon found himself returning her smile with a light grin.

They were happy and were good for one another, and to him that was all that mattered. Naruto couldn't wish for anything more than her happiness and it seemed like she finally got it.

"Don't worry Sakura-chan, if he ever messes up or upsets you, Hokage or not, me and that bastard will make him pay!" Naruto promised her, his grin brightening as he clenched his fists with determination.

Sakura's eyes softened as she took in her teammate's shining eyes, heart clenching in her chest as she walked over to the blonde and took his face into her hands.

"Thank you, Naruto." She said, voice barely above a whisper and eyes shining with a sincerity that caused Naruto's grin to soften. The blonde gently reached out to place his hand on the back of her head and gently nudged it forward so that her forehead rested against his, blue eyes shining with a warmth that caused the back of her eyes to sting.

"You're my family, Sakura-chan." Naruto gently reminded her, the firmness in his voice causing her heart to clench painfully in her chest. "I want you to be happy and if he makes you feel this way, I couldn't ask for more."

Sakura closed her eyes the second she felt a tear escape her, her lips tilting up into a soft smile. He always seemed to have that effect on her, his warmth and compassion moving her to the point she felt beyond grateful for being blessed with his friendship.

She didn't know what she would do without her boys, and she didn't dare imagine how her life would be without them. There was not one day that passed by that she didn't thank the heavens for allowing her to meet them, the ones that managed to take away her pain and provide her with a love that she returned just as fiercely.

She once more opened her eyes to look at the blonde, Naruto's grin instantly brightening before he gently brushed his thumb over her cheek and wiped away the wet trail.

"Let's eat, 'kay?"

Sakura gave him a curt nod before she released the blonde and stepped back to get their food, the smile never leaving her lips. Naruto jumped off the counter and shot her one last grin before the two made their way back to the living-room where the others were already waiting for them.

Kakashi was still lounging on the couch, a new file in his hands while Sasuke was seated in the armchair with what seemed to be an old mission report.

Itachi was once again seated on the couch he previously occupied, going through the papers that were sprawled on the small table in front of him. When he heard the duo enter he lifted his head, knowing onyx eyes instantly falling on the blonde jinchuuriki. It seemed like a silent message passed between the two and not even a moment later Naruto shot him his trademark fox-like grin that Itachi easily returned with a smirk of his own.

He knew that Naruto was never mad at him and that he was merely being tested by the younger boy- and it seemed like he had passed, much to his satisfaction.

"Let's eat!" The blonde gleefully exclaimed as he plopped down on Kakashi's legs, the silver-haired male kicking the eager blonde off him and to the end of the couch. Naruto let out a small yelp that would be the start of another one of their banters but Itachi paid it no mind and focused his gaze on the pinkette that placed the food onto the table before she quietly sat down next to him.

She grabbed one of the files on the table and shifted so that she was leaning with her back against the couch, knees pulled to her chest and side brushing against Itachi's.

When she felt him look at her she glanced up to meet his dark gaze with her own, lips curved upwards into a tender smile that warmed his chest. He had felt the shift in her mood and could tell that she must have shared a moment with her blonde teammate and it was then that Itachi realized just how much she valued her teammates opinion and how much their understanding and approval actually meant to her.

He knew that she would not be swayed were they to oppose to their relationship, but she would be hurt and disappointed and Itachi was pleased that everything turned out the way it did. He had been certain that her teammate's would not oppose to him or their relationship, although he knew that they would be surprised by it, but it seemed like she had been more concerned about them accepting him than he thought.

He brushed a strand of hair out of her face, aware of the way her smile brightened at the gesture and allowed his finger to rest behind her ear for a moment longer than necessary. The others were still occupied with their banter, Sasuke having gotten dragged into it because Naruto somehow managed to kick him in the jaw but Itachi's sole focus was on the beautiful pinkette seated next to him.

He was a lucky man, he realized when she leaned into his touch and shot him a brilliant smile. He had received a gift far more precious than he could have ever hoped for. She was the ray of hope that illuminated the dark path he was walking on, her light warming even the darkest corner of his soul and urging him to keep on pushing forwards.

He would make sure that he would win this fight and keep her and the people she cherished safe, if only to keep the light in her eyes from vanishing.

For her, he would bring an end to the darkness that was gradually settling over them, no matter what it would take and how far he would have to go. He would destroy anyone who dared try to take away her happiness, and Itachi was a man of his word.

He would win this fight, for the people of the village that put their faith into him, and for the sake of her smile.

X

"Ne, Kakashi-sensei, what was Obito like when you were in a team?"

Sakura's eyes snapped up from the file she was reading to look at her former sensei, expression falling when she noticed the way his visibly eye was blankly staring at the sheet in his hands.

For a moment she was torn between smacking Naruto for being so insensitive but on the other hand his question was reasonable. She could understand the blonde's curiosity, but until now she refrained from approaching the topic out of fear of forcing the copy-nin to recall unwanted memories.

Itachi and Sasuke kept their eyes fixed on their files out of consideration for the silver-haired male and just when Sakura was about to shoot Naruto a pointed look, Kakashi spoke.

"He was a lot like you."

Their eyes widened with surprise as they looked at Kakashi who seemed to be deep in thought, his nonchalant tone betrayed by the tension of his body.

"Really?" Naruto asked, curiosity fueled. "How so?"

Sakura found herself unable to look away, equally as curious as Naruto while Kakashi let out a thoughtful hum.

"Well, for starters he had a really big mouth." He told them and when Naruto let out an offended yell Kakashi merely offered him his infamous eye-crinkle before he continued. "He was always late, a big cry-baby and like you wanted to become the Hokage."

At that even Itachi lifted his eyes to look at the copy-nin in mild surprise, obviously not having been aware about that detail while the rest seemed beyond confused.

"Hokage?" Naruto asked, visibly puzzled. "Why would someone who wanted to become the Hokage want to destroy the village?"

"That's exactly what we'll try to find out." Kakashi told him, the cheeriness in his voice betrayed by the darkness his eyes held as he returned them to the file in front of them and just like that, the topic was dismissed.

Sakura's expression softened as she lowered her orbs to the papers on her lap. She already had a feeling that Obito had greatly cared about the village but to hear that he had even wanted to become the Hokage once caused her to wonder what had happened for him to harbor such a hatred at the shinobi system.

The pinkette instantly realized that Kakashi must have picked up Obito's habit of being late after his death and if Obito really was as kind as her former sensei said, Sakura was certain that there had to be a part of that old him somewhere.

She would make sure to find out, if not only for Konoha's sake, but also his and Kakashi's.

X

The night they stayed over at her apartment they went over everything they knew about Obito Uchiha and his skills so that they could prepare themselves accordingly. Kakashi's personal knowledge also helped them get a better picture of whom they were up against.

The following days Sakura met up with Mikoto in the mornings and practiced her genjutsu with the elder Uchiha and met up with the boys after.

Before she realized it, the day of the Winter Festival arrived and Sakura found herself getting summoned to the Hokage tower in the early morning by two Anbu guards. A part of her feared that her summon meant bad news, especially since she hadn't seen Itachi ever since the morning he and the others left, but when she finally arrived at the Hokage Tower and entered the familiar office, her eyes widened with surprise at the sight that greeted her.

"Temari?"

The blonde grinned at the pinkette from where she was standing in front of Itachi's desk, her teal colored eyes sparkling with amusement at the dumbfounded expression on Sakura's face.

"Looks like the three day long run was worth it." The blonde drawled, her grin brightening as she watched the shock wear off the pinkette's face and get replaced by a bright smile before she met the pinkette halfway to pull her into a embrace.

"What are you doing here?" Sakura asked once she pulled back from the blonde with a smile, curiosity brightening her eyes. "And where is Gaara?"

"Naruto dragged him out of the office a couple of minutes ago." Temari told her, her grin turning into a smirk at Sakura's snort. "The Hokage and him have some things to discuss and I thought why not use this opportunity to pay you guys a visit."

Sakura's grin brightened before her eyes fell on the Uchiha that was seated behind his desk and watched the exchange with a small smile. He must have known about their arrival for days and knowing him, he probably didn't tell her anything about it to surprise her.

Safe to say, it worked. Sakura was beyond happy to see the Sand kunoichi and was looking forward to catching up with her and spending some time with her and the rest of the girls at the Winter Festival, especially since the last time they had seen one another didn't end too well on her part.

"I guess I am to keep our guest company until the meeting, Hokage-sama?" Sakura asked with a knowing smile that the Uchiha merely returned with a smirk.

"It would be appreciated, Haruno." He smoothly returned, and Sakura couldn't stop her smile from turning into a grin. She would have to make sure to properly thank him later.

Temari was not oblivious to the shift in the air at the exchange, nor to the way the pinkette was practically glowing, and found herself looking at her friend with a knowing grin.

Seemed like they had a lot of catching up to do.

Sakura inclined her head and removed her eyes from Itachi to fix them on Temari instead, her smile still firmly in place. "Shall we?"

Itachi watched the two girls leave his office, feeling content. He had hoped that their visit would be able to lift both her and Naruto's spirits, especially since their arrival fell on the day of the Winter Festival.

He wanted to give them one day off that they could enjoy without having to worry about anything or anyone. It was the least they deserved considering all that happened and was yet to come.

"Hokage-sama." One of his guards stepped into the office, bowing low with a firm expression. "We just got the report that Shisui and his team have arrived at the border and have started the investigation."

Itachi placed his elbows on the surface of his paper-covered desk, hands interlaced and expression thoughtful. "I expect an update by this evening."

"Of course, Hokage-sama!" The man affirmed as he once more bowed low before he left the office. Itachi's lips thinned as he thought back to the meetings he had with the Clan elders. He knew that it was only a matter of time until they would increase the pressure on him, and he only hoped that by tonight Shisui would be able to provide him with some information that would lead them to their missing men.

X

"I am sorry for causing such a commotion back then."

Temari tch'ed from where she was seated opposite of Sakura, her eyes never leaving the Shogi board that was placed between them.

"And there I was telling you to not get killed overnight for you to do just that." Temari moved one of her pieces. "You gave us quite a scare."

Sakura rolled her eyes before she moved one of her own pieces. "Well, it's not like I planned on getting poisoned."

Temari arched a daring brow that betrayed her sharp grin as she glanced up at the pinkette. "Could have fooled me. You looked like a virgin ghost ready to doom us all."

Sakura huffed, unwilling to admit that Temari's comparison was most likely eerily accurate. "Next time, make sure to remind me to doll up before dying so that you guys won't be traumatized by seeing me with my bed-hair."

Temari let out a light chuckle as she crossed her arms above her chest, a knowing glint flashing in her eyes. "Well, considering that a certain someone run all the way from Suna to Konoha just to save you it couldn't have been that bad."

The blonde's lips curled upwards into a smirk when she noticed Sakura stiffen, her fingers resting on the white piece for the split of a second too long and easily giving her away.

Bingo.

"I am sure that he preferred my bed-hair to explaining everyone how his advisor managed to get herself poisoned on what was supposed to be a mere diplomatic mission." Sakura dryly returned, unwilling to give up any information without a fight if only to keep Temari from getting what she wanted that easily.

Temari hummed, a glint in her eyes that Sakura knew meant no good. "So you mean to tell me that nothing between you two has changed?"

Sakura shrugged as she moved another of her pieces, the smirk that tugged at the corner of her lips betraying her nonchalant expression. "He's not keeping me busy with genin tasks just to rile me up anymore, if that's what you mean."

Temari snickered as she looked at the pinkette in front of her, clearly amused. "I can imagine that he's keeping you quite busy with other things instead."

Sakura's head snapped up to look at the blonde with wide eyes but when she saw the victorious grin on her lips she knew that she had walked right into that one, but instead of allowing her the victory she decided to try a different approach.

"What makes you think that our relationship is not strictly business?" Sakura inquired with an arched brow as her shock from the blonde's bold statement wore off.

Temari rolled her eyes. "I'm not blind, Sakura. Something between you has changed and I could tell it the instant you entered the office."

Sakura tipped her head aside, curiosity piqued as she pinched her brows. "Changed?"

Temari regarded the pinkette for a moment, wondering if she was aware of the way her eyes sparkled ever since she had addressed the topic. She knew Sakura for quite some time now and even though she had always been quite outgoing and friendly to everyone, there were many times when Temari caught sight of the part her friend had locked away. There were times when the smile she had practiced so hard to be convincing didn't reach her eyes, days when there would be a dullness in her green orbs when they all would go out and enjoy themselves and moments when her steps would falter and she would walk a few steps behind them, deep in thought.

Temari had managed to pick these things up during the last years when they would see one another either in Suna or in Konoha and even though her friends didn't seem to notice, she did.

After all, it took one to know one.

It was one of the reasons as to why Temari had felt herself drawn to the pinkette, the invisible cloud that hovered over the pinkette eerily reminding her of her own and allowing her to form a friendship with her that only grew stronger over time.

She had noticed it the instant Sakura stepped into the office, the way the air in the office shifted and turned more warm. The blonde wasn't oblivious to the way the usually stoic Hokage's expression softened for the slightest of bits when he saw the pinkette, nor the way her friend considerably brightened when she saw him.

"He seemed less intimidating than usual." Temari eventually returned, her slender shoulders tugging upwards into a nonchalant shrug. "And you looked more comfortable around him."

Sakura looked at Temari for a moment longer, inwardly wondering if the change in him really was as evident as she claimed to be before she shook her head with a wry smile.

"You're really good at that, you know?" Sakura sighed, visibly defeated as Temari shot her a wink.

"I know, but it's always nice to hear."

Sakura snorted as she crossed her arms above her chest and arched a brow, their game long forgotten.

"Seen Shika yet?"

A grin crept onto her lips at the way Temari's eyes widened for the split of a second, mentally patting herself on the shoulder for catching the smug blonde off guard.

"Why would I go see him?" The visibly flustered kunoichi sputtered and Sakura's grin only brightened at her reaction.

Ah, payback really was nice.

The pinkette shrugged, her eyes sparkling dangerously as the blonde tried her hardest to avert her eyes from Sakura. "I thought that you missed him after not seeing him for the past five months."

The blonde visibly stiffened before her head snapped up, eyes wide and cheeks colored in a rosy hue but before she was able to get over her shock and could defend herself, Sakura heard her front door open.

"Sakura!" A light voice called in a sing-sang tone that caused Sakura to instantly stiffen. The pinkette turned her head to look over her shoulder just in time to see Ino enter her living-room, the blonde wearing a broad grin that turned into a surprised smile upon catching sight of Temari.

"Temari?" Ino called, obviously not having expected the Suna kunoichi as she tipped her head curiously aside, her smile not faltering. "I didn't know you were coming!"

Sakura moved to stand up from where she was seated on the floor, her legs aching from sitting too long as she stretched. "It was spontaneous. Itachi has a meeting with Gaara after the festival so she tagged along."

Ino's mouthed an 'o' in realization before her smile turned to a grin. "Perfect! So you'll join us to the festival, right?"

Temari shot Sakura an uncertain glance, obviously weary of the the lighter blonde's enthusiasm before she offered her a small smile that was accompanied by a nod.

Ino clapped her hands together, visibly excited. "Excellent! I was just going to drag Sakura out of here to get ready at my place with Hinata and TenTen anyways, so we'll be able to catch up while dressing up!"

Temari arched a brow, though her smile turned into an amused smirk at the bubbly blonde's antics while Sakura let out a groan.

"Can't I just get ready here?" Sakura half-heartedly whined, but the frown on Ino's face told her that it was not up for discussion.

"I won't let you attend the festival looking anything less than stunning, forehead." Ino told her, arms crossed above her busty chest as she narrowed her eyes. "There will be plenty of eyes on you tonight and I will be damned if I won't make them burst with envy."

Sakura arched a brow, confusion filling her as she looked at Ino in wonder. The blonde was always eager to dress her up whenever the opportunity provided itself and even though she had already expected Ino to march inside and drag her over to hers, she seemed especially determined this time.

"What's so different from last year?" Sakura inquired and Ino looked at her in sheer disbelief.

"What's different?" The blonde incredulously echoed. "What's different this year, forehead, is that this year you're not only going as Sakura Haruno, the Godaime's apprentice and member of the infamous Team seven, but also as Sakura Haruno, the Rokudaime's and Uchiha heirs' woman!"

Sakura felt heat flush into her cheeks as she heard Temari chuckle, face scrunching up into frown as she shot Ino a dark look. "Barely anyone knows about that!"

The blonde in return arched a challenging brow, bright eyes glistening with mirth. "Oh please, forehead. Rumors about the two of you have been going around ever since you were assigned as his advisor and after his little stunt at the hospital I doubt that there is anyone who doesn't think that you guys are together."

Temari's smirk brightened into a curious grin as she turned to look at Sakura. "Hospital stunt?"

Sakura stiffened, her stomach dropping as her eyes snapped to Ino with a mixture of surprise and horror. "How do you know about that?"

Ino snorted, almost looking offended by her question. "You forget who you are talking to, forehead."

Sakura groaned as she fell back on her couch, hands covering her face. If Ino managed to find out about Itachi's little scene at the hospital then there was no doubt that others did too. She knew that the hospital was infamous for its gossip and rumors but never did she expect it to reach the streets of the village.

It wasn't like she minded people finding out about her and Itachi, but she wasn't as naive as to think that the response would only be positive. It wasn't something she couldn't handle, she was more than able to put people in their place and remind them just whose apprentice she was if they were to get rude, but she wasn't one who enjoyed being the center of attention.

Of course with being a member of Team seven, the Godaime's apprentice and now the Hokage's advisor she had grown accustomed to the looks she received as well as the small privilege the attention brought, but it wasn't necessarily something she enjoyed.

Now, when she believed that people had finally gotten used to it and the rumors died down, she suddenly found herself once more pushed into the center of attention. Only this time she knew that it would be worse if the looks the nurses at the hospital threw her when they thought that she wasn't looking were anything to go by.

Whether she liked to admit it or not, Ino was most likely right and people would want to see if she was deserving of being at the Hokage's side. Many would also criticize her and come up with the most ridiculous rumors just because they could, but that was something Sakura had learned to ignore ages ago when people commented on how close she and her boys were.

"I'm screwed." She whined into her hands, the snickers she received in return not helping the sudden apprehension that filled her and just when she thought it couldn't get worse, Ino spoke.

"Just wait until the Clan finds out."

She didn't see the pillow coming and to Sakura's satisfaction, it hit her square in the face. The blonde flashed her an annoyed look but other than that said nothing, instead turning to look at Temari.

"Got something to wear?"

Temari nodded, though she couldn't refrain from shooting the blonde a smug smirk. "You think I come to Konoha unprepared, Yamanaka?"

Ino mirrored her expression, clearly content before she fixed her eyes on Sakura. "What about you, forehead?"

Sakura's expression turned thoughtful as she tried to recall the outfits she possessed that would suit the occasion but her expression apparently said it all for her blonde friend rolled her eyes before she grabbed her wrist and dragged her towards the bedroom.

"I can find something to wear on my own!" Sakura swiftly protested but all that Ino offered her in return was a snort and a knowing look over her shoulder.

"You planned on wearing the same from last year, weren't you?"

Sakura instantly clamped her mouth shut, lips forming into a pout as she allowed Ino to drag her towards her room, Temari following behind the duo.

She knew that Ino only meant well but really, where was the harm in wearing the same thing as she wore last year? Naruto and Sasuke did the same, and she didn't see anything wrong with that.

When they finally entered her bedroom, Ino suddenly came to an abrupt stop, causing Sakura to bump right into her. She huffed as she removed her face from the blonde's vanilla scented hair but before she was able to ask her why she stopped, the blonde let out a squeal.

Sakura watched with a mixture of confusion and surprise as the blonde darted towards her bed, Temari joining her from behind before they exchanged a puzzled look.

It was when Ino moved aside and Sakura was able to catch just what she was looking at the pinkette's eyes widened, her heart skipping a beat.

She instantly walked towards the folded fabric that rested innocently on her sheets, its rosy color slightly lighter than her hair and complimented by the crimson obi that laid above it. Upon finally reaching her bed, Sakura spotted the small note that rested on top of the bundle and curiously opened it.

Written on it in a handwriting that she had come to grow familiar with during the past month were three simple words.

See you tonight.

Warmth flooded her as she realized just who was behind the gift and she couldn't fight the smile that tugged at her lips. She felt a rush of excitement fill her as she realized that he actually made the effort to gift her something and found herself wonder just how he always managed to make her smile in the most unexpected moments.

"That's so romantic!" Ino gushed from where she was leaning over her shoulder before she snatched the note from her to show it Temari.

Too touched by his thoughtfulness to mind, Sakura allowed her hands to gently ghost over the material and found herself marvel at the silky material, instantly noticing that the fabric was one of the expensive one's.

It must have cost a ton and even though she had half the mind to not accept it, she knew that it would be rude to refuse one of his gifts, especially one as thoughtful as this. She would have to thank him for that later at the festival, her heart traitorously fluttering when she thought of seeing him there.

"So the Hokage has a romantic side to him after all." Temari drawled from where she was leaning against the pinkette's wardrobe, a grin on her lips as Ino dashed forwards to inspect the piece of clothing.

Lifting the material from the bed, the light blonde let out a gasp as she held it up to have a proper look at it. Sakura had to agree that it was beautiful indeed and wondered if maybe Mikoto had a hand in choosing it.

"That's so unfair!" Ino then exclaimed as she put it down once more and whirled around to look at Sakura with a pout. "I would have made a move earlier if I had known that he had this side to him."

Sakura snorted as she took the Kimono from the blonde and carefully folded it once more, the smile never leaving her lips even when Temari behind her snickered.

"I have a feeling that Sakura is the first one to see that side." She commented and Ino let out an overly dramatic sigh.

"I guess." She muttered before she turned to look at her smiling, pink-haired friend. "Who knew that he was into big foreheads?"

Sakura snorted from where she was smothering the fabric. "Is that jealousy I hear, pig?"

"Damn right it is." Ino returned, crossing her arms above her chest before a smirk crept onto her lips to replace the pout. "If I'm jealous already, how do you think will all the others feel?"

Sakura lifted her brows, not liking the tone in Ino's voice whose eyes gradually darkened in a way that the medic was all too familiar with.

"Well girls, shall we make some heads turn?"

X

"Oh, Hinata-chan you look gorgeous!" Tenten cooed as the Hyuuga heiress entered the room, the rosy hue that covered her cheek highlighting her light eyes.

She was wearing a lavender colored Kimono with purple bell flowers painted along her sleeves, her dark lilac obi firmly fastened around her slim waist. Her long tresses were twisted into a a low braid, two loose strands of hair framing her face as she sheepishly averted her eyes onto the ground.

"Thank you." The Hyuuga heiress returned with a shy smile before she lifted her eyes to take in both her and Temari's attire. "You two look quite pretty yourselves."

Tenten twirled around with a broad grin, her bright red Kimono fluttering at the movement before she shot her a wink. "You think?"

Hinata nodded, noting the way her white obi complimented the white petals that covered her Kimono. Half of her chocolate colored hair was pulled upwards into a bun, the other half freely flowing down, its ends brushing against her collarbone and softening her features.

"You'll be quite an eye-catcher." Temari agreed, a smile on her lips from where she was leaning against the wall. She was sporting her usual hair-style, her former clothes replaced by a light blue Kimono that was fastened with a yellow Obi that complimented the soft daisies that were painted across the fabric.

"You don't look too bad yourself." Tenten responded, hazel eyes shining knowingly. "Got someone to impress?"

Before Temari was able to respond Ino's voice sounded from the other room where she and Sakura were still getting dressed in.

"I didn't even have to threaten Shika to join us!" The blonde called before she finally exited the room with a teasing grin on her glossy lips. "I just had to tell him that Temari was also coming and all of sudden, it was only a 'drag' to join us."

Tenten let out a laugh at the blonde's mortified expression, Hinata offering her a sympathetic smile before the Hyuuga heiress turned to look back at Ino.

"You look very pretty." She softly complimented, earning a bright grin from Ino who flicked her now open hair over her shoulder.

"It took me hours to get my hair this straight." The blonde let out a grueling sigh before she motioned to her outfit. "What do you think?"

Tenten nodded, obviously approving of the dark purple Kimono her friend wore. The fabric was fastened around her waist with a light pink Obi that enhanced her curves and once again, the blonde looked stunning.

"Ten out of ten." Tenten gave her a thumbs up and Ino's grin widened, visibly pleased. She then turned her head over her shoulder to look back at the room with a frown.

"Come on forehead, what's taking you so long?" She called, turquoise eyes narrowed with annoyance before her friends voice finally reached her ears.

"Calm down pig, I'm coming!"

When the pinkette entered the room, a series of gasps echoed from her friends that caused her cheeks to lighten up with a rosy hue that matched her hair.

She was wearing the beautiful rosy Kimono that Itachi had gifted her, the color slightly paler than her hair that transitioned into a slightly darker shade at the bottom of the dress and her sleeves. Dark rose-colored cherry blossoms were drawn along her sleeves and the bottom of the fabric, the crimson Obi fastened around her middle matching her red colored finger-less gloves. The material was wrapped around her wrist and stretched over the back of her slender hand, thinning until it was wrapped around her index finger like a ring.

The sides of her hair were pulled back and fastened with a crimson clasp that Ino had given her, two strands of hair framing her face as the rest of her hair flowered down and teased the lower part of her back.

"Wow, Sakura, you look beautiful!" Tenten exclaimed in delight as Temari let out a low whistle, making Sakura shift her weight as she unconsciously run her hand over the front of her Kimono.

"You think?" She asked, earning a bright smile from Hinata and a grin from Tenten. "Thank you guys."

Ino's scrutinizing eyes scanned her from head to toe, a low hum escaping her as she gave her a once over before she offered her a nod of approval.

"Perfect." Her lips curled upwards into a smile before she interlaced her arm with the pinkette's and turned to look at the other three with shining eyes. "Let's go meet the boys, girls!"

The girls left the Yamanaka compound and entered the busy streets of the village, the diverse group gaining quite some attention as they made their way through the crowds and towards the place they agreed to meet the others at.

The streets were crowded with all kind of people, lights and lanterns illuminating the streets and bathing it in all kind of bright colors. Music sounded through the village and the smell of food entered their nostrils, making their mouths water.

They made their way towards the training grounds that were filled with people and activity stands, chatting to themselves and it was when they entered training ground four that they finally spotted the ones they were looking for.

"Naruto-kun!" Ino called as she jumped up and waved her hand, knowing that the blonde would instantly pick up her voice through the crowd.

She turned out to be right for the blonde's head instantly turned towards their direction and as soon as his blue eyes found them a broad grin stretched over his whiskered face.

"Over here!" He shouted, causing Sakura to shake her head with a smile as they made their way towards the boys that were already waiting for them.

Sakura instantly caught sight of the raven haired male that was standing next to Naruto with a clearly bored expression, the dark blue Kimono he wore matching the mysterious aura he radiated. Sasuke was really a looker, and judging by the whispers from the girls as they passed him by, she wasn't the only one who thought that way.

"Hey girls!" Naruto greeted them as he slung an arm around Sakura's shoulder, his orange outfit matching his bright smile as he looked them over. "You look really pretty."

Sakura noticed his eyes innocently linger on Hinata when he said that, the pale-eyed Hyuuga heiress furiously blushing at the sudden attention she received from the blonde and Sakura allowed her smile to turn into a knowing grin.

"You look quite good yourself." Sakura teased, gently nudging him to save Hinata from any further embarrassment by turning the blonde's attention to her. She then turned to look around for the others but upon finding the two alone, she flashed her teammate's a curious look. "Where are the others?"

"Shika and Neji went to check out the shooting range-" Naruto started, but before he was able to finish his sentence Tenten had already hooked her arm around Temari's and dragged her away from them.

"We're off, see you later guys!" The brunette swiftly excused themselves and left, leaving Naruto to stare after them dumbfounded and Sakura to let out a chuckle.

"They really saw the chance and took it." Ino said, clearly impressed before she turned her head back to look at Naruto with a grin. "What about the others?"

The blonde looked thoughtful, tapping his finger against his chin before he spoke. "I think Kiba and Lee went to the track fields and I may have seen Choji and Shino at one of the food courts close to Training ground seven."

Ino considerably brightened at the news and before anyone could react, grabbed both Naruto and Hinata by the arms and pulled them into her sides.

"Perfect!" The blonde exclaimed, a cheshire grin on her lips as she looked at the startled blonde to her left. "Our dear Hinata-chan wanted to try out some Ramen and I had to talk to Choji anyways."

At the mention of his favorite food Naruto's eyes visibly brightened before he leaned forwards to take a peek at the frozen Hyuuga heiress.

"Really, Hinata-chan?" He asked, pleasantly surprised but before the poor girl could even think about answering Ino beat it to her.

"Really." The blonde purred as the tightened her hold on the pair's arms. "Let's go!"

As she dragged the duo towards the food courts she looked over her shoulder to catch Sakura's amused expression and shot her a wink that the medic returned with a chuckle.

When they were out of sight, Sakura turned her head to look at the last person left with her and couldn't fight the light grin that played on her lips.

"Guess you're stuck with me now." She told him, her eyes sparkling with amusement and before her teammate had a chance to object she grabbed his arm and pulled her with her.

He didn't object, relaxing under her familiar touch and allowing the small pinkette to drag him deeper into the crowd.

Sakura's eyes sparkled as she took in the flashing stands, her small hands curled around Sasuke's biceps while the Uchiha took in their surroundings with an impassive expression.

As the two made their way through the crowd, Sakura engaged him in a light chatter and even though Sasuke gave short answers, the slight softening of his eyes when her bright emerald eyes caught his dark ones betrayed his bored expression.

"A wonder that Naruto managed to convince you to join us." Sakura teased, earning a huff from Sasuke who turned to look at the Whack-a-Mole stand.

"He wouldn't shut up about it." Sasuke shrugged, causing Sakura's smile to brighten as she gently nudged him.

"I am glad that you came." She told him, happy that for once they would be able to enjoy some time together without having to worry about anything. The pinkette loved Festivals as much as her blonde teammate did and to be able to spend it with the one's she held dear always managed to considerably brighten her mood.

"Hn." Sasuke merely returned, but the slight softening of his voice betrayed his blank expression. Sakura let out a pleased sigh before she allowed her eyes to roam the crowd, inwardly hoping to catch sight of a certain pair of onyx eyes. So far she hadn't seen him and even though she knew that he wasn't one to join such festivals, only if Shisui dragged him to them, his note had filled her with hope.

After some minutes passed and she still didn't catch sight of the Uchiha heir they found themselves at the track field. It didn't take Sakura long until she spotted a familiar green-clad figure a couple of meters away from them that stuck out from between the other bodies.

A grin broke out on her face as she lifted her hand into the air and waved, hoping to catch their attention as she fastened her pace.

"Lee! Kiba!"

Said duo looked up and searched for the owner of the voice before they finally caught sight of the two and rushed towards them with a grin.

"Sakura-san!" Lee exclaimed as he landed in front of her and took her free hand into his, eyes wide as he took in her appearance. "You look as radiant as ever!"

Sakura let out a light chuckle and when Kiba approached, he openly gave the pinkette a once over before he let out a low whistle.

"I guess I was wrong when I said that you in a doctors coat was my favorite outfit on you." He told her with a wink, a wolfish grin on his lips that caused Sakura to roll her eyes.

Her eyes then fell on her silent companion whose eyes were fixed on a distant blur of blonde and Sakura gently removed her arm from his. When he looked down at her with questioning eyes she merely offered him a reassuring smile and gently patted his upper arm, the Uchiha instantly realizing what she meant before he gave her a curt nod and left.

Sakura watched Sasuke leave and when he was out of sight, she turned to look back at the duo in front of her with a grin. "Mind if I join you two?"

Kiba barked out a laugh before he threw his arm around her shoulder and Lee gave her a thumbs up.

"I was just about to enter the race!" Lee announced and Sakura's eyes brightened at his words. "I would be honored if Konoha's Cherry blossom would stay to watch!"

Sakura's grin widened before she nodded, much to the green-clad male's glee who threw a fist in the air.

"Allow me to show you the power of youth!"

X

He found her by the track fields.

She was cheering for who seemed to be Might Guys disciple on the side-lines, her cheeks flushed in a gorgeous rosy hue by the chilling air. He caught the way her emerald eyes sparkled in glee and felt his chest warm as he approached her, content rushing through him as he noticed that she was wearing the Kimono he gifted her. It fit her perfectly, the silken material enhancing her feminine curves and complimenting her striking eyes.

She looked breathtakingly beautiful.

As he approached her from behind, she seemed oblivious to his presence and continued to cheer for her friend, causing him to smile as he stopped right behind her and loomed over her smaller frame.

The Inuzuka was the first one to notice his presence and when he turned out to look who was looming over Sakura, his eyes widening with surprise.

"Hokage-sama!"

Itachi smiled when he felt Sakura in front of him tense before she whirled around to look at him in surprise. Her cheeks were flushed due to the cold air, her eyes shining brightly and lips curled upwards into joyous smile that only widened upon seeing him.

"Itachi!" She greeted him, still a little breathless though he doubted it was from her previous cheering. "You came."

Itachi's expression softened and even though he had only seen her this morning he found himself missing her company. He absentmindedly noticed the Inuzuka slip away from them before he reached out to gently put a strand of her hair behind her ear. His touch lingered for a moment longer than necessary but Sakura didn't seem to mind and flashed him a bright smile.

"I told you I would." He mumbled, offering her a light smile before he removed his hand from her ear and held it out for her to take. "Walk with me?"

Sakura felt her heart skip a beat at the smile he offered her and found herself growing strangely nervous. She was well aware of the side-way glances they received but when her emerald eyes caught his reassuring onyx ones, she found herself relax.

Shooting him the most brilliant smile that even put the lanterns to shame, the pink-haired kunoichi gently slid her hand into his bigger one and allowed him to pull her away.

When he gently placed her hand on his arm Sakura instantly relaxed, the warmth he radiated shielding her from the cold air as they walked and the pinkette sneaking a glance at him from the corner of her eye.

He was dressed in a black silken Kimono that enhanced his tall frame, a thin outer jacket that bore the Uchiha fan above it. Sakura found herself smiling as she took in his calm expression, the lines on his face less prominent than usual and the pinkette couldn't help but admit that Uchiha Itachi was indeed a gorgeous man.

He must have felt her look at him for he caught her gaze and quirked a questioning brow at her. Sakura merely offered him a sheepish smile before she averted her eyes from him and fortunately for her, caught sight of a Dango stand nearby.

She all but dragged him towards it, well aware of his sweet tooth and cheerfully ordered two of the sweets. Itachi looked down at the excited medic with a fond smile, a surge of happiness filling him at the sight of her genuine happiness that lightened up her face.

He had hoped that she would be enjoying herself and it seemed like he was right if the glow that surrounded her was anything to go by.

"Thank you." Sakura said to the male behind the counter as she accepted the sweets and handed him one, oblivious to the lingering stare of the brunette that had given them to her.

Itachi accepted the sweet from the pinkette, his chilling gaze fixed on the brunette who upon noticing whom Sakura was accompanied by visibly blanched.

The ghost of a smirk whispered over his lips as he wrapped his free arm around Sakura's slim waist and lead her back towards the crowd, the pinkette oblivious to the exchange as she nibbled on the sweet treat.

As they walked, Sakura suddenly found herself painfully aware of the looks she received. She had believed the ones she received from the nurses at the hospital to be bad already, but they didn't come even close to the attention they received.

The mostly curious looks she received were a blessing in comparison to the dark glares and disapproving frowns she occasionally received from others, especially when their eyes fell on Itachi's hand on her waist that kept her close to him.

Sakura had half the mind to ignore them but when she caught a girl's glare who only seemed to be a year younger than herself, she found herself snap. When she caught her eye she arched a daring brow, eyes hard and expression firm. The girl swiftly averted her eyes from the pinkette and Sakura let out a small huff before she bit into her sweet in hoped of cooling her annoyance.

The sweet in combination with the feeling of Itachi's strong and warm hand that was possessively resting on her hip caused her anger to fade away in mere moments and it was when she took her last bite of her Dango that she remembered something.

"Where's Gaara?"

Itachi shot her a curious look at the sudden question and Sakura wasn't surprised to see that he had already finished his sweet.

"I left him with Naruto." He told her, earning him a slight slap on his shoulder at his nonchalant tone from the pinkette.

"You just left him there?" She asked, voice incredulous and Itachi shot her a mildly amused look at the look she was giving him.

"Would you have rather wanted me ask him to accompany us?" He asked with an arched brow, his smirk brightening when he caught the small upwards tilt of her lips that betrayed her nonchalant shrug.

"I wouldn't have minded Gaara to tag along." She casually returned, eyes taking in the different stands to avoid his burning eyes.

"Is that so." He mumbled and when Sakura finally turned to look at him she couldn't help but let loose a laugh at his put off expression. Itachi watched her as she laughed, her pearly laughter causing his chest to warm as he pulled her slightly closer against him. She looked beautiful when she laughed- with her head tilted backwards and her smile brightening up her slightly flushed face, and Itachi found himself watching her with a fond smile.

When Sakura opened her eyes once more she shot him a dazzling smile and before she could help herself, she reached out to gently pat his cheek. "Would it make you happier if I told you that I rather enjoy being alone with you?"

Itachi's lips curled upwards into a smile before he grabbed her wrist to hold her hand in place, eyes flashing with pleasure when he felt her pulse spark under her touch.

"Good." He mumbled, onyx eyes darkening as his smile sharpened. "Because I have no intention on sharing you tonight."

Sakura's heart skipped a dangerous beat at his words, the look in his eyes enough to cause a shiver to run down the length of her spine and even though she was well aware of the looks they were receiving, Sakura found herself unable to care about them.

The pinkette let out a huff, her smile not once faltering as she tipped her head innocently aside. "Isn't that a bit unfair to the others?"

He turned around so that he could gently pull her against him, her chest fluttering when his eyes darkened and his smile turned into a smirk.

"You know that I don't like to share." He reminded her, his voice low as he looked down at her.

Her eyes softened at the teasing glint in his eyes, a flush of content filling her as she looked up at the Uchiha heir. He looked perfectly at ease despite of standing in the middle of the crowd, surrounded by all kind of people and high ranked shinobi as he held her. Despite of knowing that people were undoubtedly shooting them curious looks his unwavering attention remained fixed on her, like she was the only thing that mattered and Sakura found herself strangely compelled to believe him.

His touch was enough to calm her nerves, making her forget all of her concerns and uneasiness within the split of a second. As she stood there, in the middle of the busy streets, she realized that none of her previous thoughts and fears mattered and that all she needed to be truly happy was him.

Not other people's approval, feigned smiles or forced pleasantries.

Just him.

"You're impossible." She mumbled, her smile never faltering as she allowed her thumb to gently brush over his cheekbone. "But I am glad."

She watched him lean into her touch, dark eyes sparkling as he watched the woman in his arms. He was fighting the urge to simply sweep her up into his arms and take her away from the Festival to a place where he could have her for himself, but he knew that there would be plenty of moments in the future where he would be able to enjoy her company.

She was, after all, the woman he decided to spend his life with.

Just as he was about to lean down and claim her rosy lips with his he heard someone behind him clear his throat and judging by the way Sakura's emerald eyes widened it seemed to be someone rather important.

"Fugaku-san, Mikoto-san." He heard her say, her voice close to a squeak as she removed her hand from his face and leaned her weight away from him but before she was able to remove herself from him, Itachi tightened his hold on her waist.

He could feel Sakura tense but he ignored the wide-eye look she shot him and turned around to face his visibly amused parents with a small smile.

"Mother, Father."

"Sakura-chan!" Mikoto exclaimed, clearly pleased to see the pinkette while Fugaku offered her a curt nod. "I didn't expect to find you two here, together nonetheless."

Sakura didn't miss the way Mikoto's dark eyes knowingly sparkled and she tried her hardest to keep her smile from faltering. She wouldn't be half as embarrassed as she was if it was only Mikoto, but to have Fugaku catch them like this when he was still unaware of the relationship between them was making her feel rather uncomfortable.

"I wanted to spent some time with her."

Sakura's eyes widened with horror as her head whipped to the side to shoot Itachi a look of sheer shock, inwardly wondering just what the hell he thought he was doing.

When he looked down at her and raised a brow as if daring her to deny it she was tempted to catch the bait but forcing her annoyance down for the sake of his parents, she forced her lips to curl into an uneasy smile before she returned her gaze to his parents.

Whereas Mikoto looked beyond pleased by her son's words, Fugaku arched a brow at his rather frank answer. He knew that his son was not one to speak empty words but to see him display the pinkette on his arm in the middle of the crowd was one way he didn't think his son would use to introduce their newfound relationship to the villagers. He held his son's unwavering gaze for a moment longer before his eyes turned to look at the visibly tense pinkette in his arm, the corner of his lip turning upwards into a small smirk.

It seemed like Itachi had yet to tell her about their little talk the other day and if he had the smallest spark of doubt whether this relationship would be worth the uproar it would undoubtedly cause, it vanished the moment he and his wife caught the way she looked at him moments ago.

Ah yes, she would be the perfect match for him indeed.

"Well then, I hope that you'll enjoy yourselves." Fugaku returned, his smirk widening as he caught the surprise that flashed in the pinkette's eyes.

Itachi smiled as he looked at his parents, visibly content as he tightened his hold on Sakura's waist. "I'll make sure of it."

Sakura bit down on her lower lip in an attempt to hide her relieved smile from view as she inclined her head, the brightness in her eyes giving her away nonetheless.

Mikoto stepped forwards to gently caress the pinkette's cheek and shoot her a reassuring wink before she passed them by, Fugaku following her with a small shake of his head and the smirk never leaving his lips.

The duo remained standing there and only when a series of moments have passed did Sakura allow her shoulders to slump. She lifted a hand to rest it over her furiously beating heart before she shot the visibly smug Uchiha heir a puzzled look, certain that she had lost some of her years after this rather unexpected encounter with his parents.

"What the hell just happened?" She asked, the wonder that laced her voice causing his smug smirk to deepen as he looked down at her.

Itachi tightened his hold on her waist and gently nudged her forwards, urging her to proceed walking and only when she finally did, although visibly reluctant, he answered.

"I have meant to tell you that I have talked to my father the other day." Itachi started, his low voice laced with badly concealed amusement as Sakura shot him a suspicious look.

"You did?" She asked, clearly surprised. "About what?"

"About you."

Her emerald eyes widened comically, lips parting in a way that tempted him to simply lean down and claim them with his own.
"Me?" She asked, a moment of stunned silence passing in which she processed his words before her eyes narrowed into dangerous slits. "And you only think of telling me now?"

She barely noticed Itachi leading her deeper into the training grounds, the tree's thickening around them and increasing in number as the light grew darker and the voices ore distant.

"I wanted to tell you tonight." He admitted, pointedly ignoring the suspicious look he earned from the pinkette in return.

"Tell me what?" She returned but instead of answering, Itachi leaned down to slip his free arm under the back of her knees before he pulled her up into his arms.

The pinkette let out a confused noise at the sudden action but before she could ask him about what he was doing, she felt him jump up into the closest tree. Her hands instantly wrapped themselves around his neck and she swiftly buried her face into his neck to shield it from the wind biting at her skin as he increased his speed.

The rustling of the trees when he jumped from branch to branch with skilled ease was the only noise that reached her ears as she pressed her body closer against his, savoring the warmth he radiated and feeling his hold on her tightening in return.

A few moments passed before she finally felt him jump back onto the ground and only when he did, Sakura dared lift her face from his neck.

When her emerald eyes took in the sight that greeted her they widened with surprise, a soft gasp passing her lips as she felt him gently put her down onto her feet once more.

He had brought her on top of a hill that allowed them to look down at the lively village they called their home, the dark night sky above them filled with sparkling stars that twinkled brighter the longer she looked at them. At the feet of the hill was a small lake, the light of the crescent moon that hung majestically on the sky causing the water to sparkle enchantingly.

Sakura felt Itachi wrap his arms around her waist from behind, his taller body pressed against her back as he rested his chin on top of her head.

"It's beautiful." Sakura breathed, stunned by the breathtaking view. Even after all these years of living in Konoha she had never come across this place and she had to admit that even though the view from the Hokage Monument was impressive, this one came close to beating it.

"I knew you'd like it." He mumbled against her hair, the smile in his voice audible and making her lips twist upwards into one of her own.

The pinkette turned in his hold so that she was looking at him, eyes softening when she took in the way the moonlight illuminated his dark orbs. Before she could help herself she reached out to gently run her hand along his cheek, the soft caress causing his eyes to darken with affection as he felt her small hand rest against the side of his neck.

She was devastatingly gorgeous as she looked up at him, eyes sparkling brighter than the stars that brightened the dark sky above them. Her lips were curled upwards into the most charming smile, her flushed skin making her all the more alluring and Itachi pulled her closer against him.

The feeling of her body pressed up against his filled him with a warmth that instantly put him at ease and made him forget anything but her. The selfish desire to keep this woman to himself was gradually growing with each day that passed, and by now Itachi was determined to make her completely and unconditionally his.

"Father approves."

Sakura blinked at his sudden words, needing a moment to fully comprehend what he had just said but when it finally clicked, her eyes gradually widened. She searched his eyes for any sign that she might have misunderstood the meaning behind them, that he wasn't referring to what she thought he was but when his dark eyes softened her heartbeat fastened.

"He shares my opinion and thinks that you'd be an excellent addition to the Clan."

Sakura kept her wide eyes fixed on him as she regarded him in stunned silence. She had guessed that their talk must have revolved around that topic but she never expected Fugaku to approve of them this easily. As the head of the Clan, she had assumed that he would be one of the one's opposed to their relationship for the sake of keeping the Clan's bloodline clear, so to hear that he didn't oppose to it caught her off guard.

Sakura felt a heavy burden that she had carried with her for the past weeks fall from her shoulders and all of sudden she felt considerably lighter.

Itachi watched as her eyes flashed in relief before her smile gradually widened and the next moment, the pinkette had her arms wrapped around his neck and pulled him down to meet her lips in a passionate kiss.

He could feel her smile against his lips when he pulled her flush against him, his hand finding the back of her neck and tilting it so that he could deepen the kiss.

Sakura hummed in delight, her skin tingling and all of a sudden he was everywhere. He was filling her mind, his scent clouding her senses and his touch shielding her even from the moon itself, the desire to keep this woman for himself, and him only overtaking him.

She melted into his touch, his familiar taste one that she realized she could never live without and when her feathery touch ghosted over the exposed skin of his neck and she felt his pulse jump, she knew that it was the same with him.

When he pulled away a moment later and opened his eyes to reveal the burning pair of onyx that made it hard for her to breathe, she wasn't scared. The intensity and fire in them caused her heart to jump not with fear but excitement and when she brushed her fingers across the side of his face, she knew that she was ready.

She was ready to give him her all. Her time, her heart, her love and all that she was, unconditionally.

It didn't matter who would oppose to it, nor who would accept it. She would not allow anyone to take him from her, and when she looked into his eyes she knew that he felt the same.

He tipped his head forward so that his lips ghosted above hers, causing her knees to weaken and if it weren't for the iron grip he had on her she was sure that they would have given in under her weight.

It didn't matter even they did, she realized, for she knew that even if the world around them would burn, he would never let her go.

Itachi looked down at her with an intensity that caused her chest to tighten. The Uchiha heir's eyes flashed when he felt her soft caress, the tips of her fingers ghosting along the side of his face and causing the heat in his body to intensify.

Her emerald eyes watched him with a tenderness that put even the softest rays of the morning sun to shame. She was beautiful in her own right and whereas Itachi knew that he wanted the pinkette for himself before, nothing could have prepared him for the overwhelming surge of happiness he felt whenever he looked at her, the feeling of sheer triumph that roared within him whenever her lips touched his and the warmth that spread in his chest whenever she smiled.

She was his only, his light that shielded him from the darkness that dared consume him and swallow him whole. She had his all, and he would never allow anyone to keep him from her, regardless of what it took him to ensure it.

He gently moved the hand from the back of her neck to rest it against the side of her face, his chest rumbling with pleasure as he watched her lean into it. He leaned forwards so that his forehead was gently brushing against hers, and when his onyx eyes caught hers, he swore to himself that this woman would forever stay his.

"I love you."

Sakura could have sworn that her heart stopped when the soft murmur reached her ears. Itachi's breath ghosted above her lips, his grip on her waist tightening as if he was afraid that once he'd let go she'd disappear but when he watched her lip's curl upwards into a teary smile, he knew that she wouldn't leave.

Sakura had never thought that she would ever experience a feeling like this, a love so selfless and yet consuming at the same time, but as she gently brushed her thumb over his pulse at the side of his neck, her lips a breath away from his, she knew that she would give it up for nothing on this world.

"I love you too." She whispered, the words passing her lips easier than any breath of air she had ever taken. "Always."

She pressed her lips fully against his and with the moon as their witness they sealed their unspoken promise to protect the love that they shared until both of them would be no more.

X

"Hokage-sama."

Itachi felt Sakura tense from where she was leaning with her back against his chest, the Anbu duo that appeared out of the shadows causing the tension in the air to rise.

The duo had spent the past hour merely enjoying each others company as they watched the village beneath them, the pinkette comfortably nestled between his legs with her back against his chest when the guards suddenly appeared.

Itachi looked at them with a light frown apprehension sweeping over him. He had told them to only seek him out if there was an emergency that needed his immediate attention and when the Anbu guards hesitated for the split of a second too long, he knew that he would not like what they'd tell him.

"What's the matter?" Sakura asked, the concern that laced her voice making Itachi wrap an arm around her middle to keep her close to him as she straightened against him.

"It's about the team that was sent to the borders." The one with the bear mask said, and Sakura felt her heart drop the moment Itachi's eyes darkened dangerously. The next moments passed by painfully slow but when the other guard finally spoke, Sakura wished that he hadn't.

"Team Shisui has disappeared."

X

A/N: That chapter took me slightly longer to write than usual but hell, it was so worth the all-nighter I pulled to finish it on time!

It's starting to get serious and the battle is getting closer and closer! What do you guys think will happen next? And what do you think happened to poor Shisui?

I am so happy to hear that you liked the previous chapter and hope that you enjoyed this one just as much. You don't know how excited I am to share these chapters with you and even though it's quite scary to see how this story is slowly coming to an end, I am looking forward to sharing more of my work with you guys very soon!

As always, I would appreciate if you could tell me what you thought about this chapter by leaving a review! They are what keeps me motivated to keep on going with this story and if it weren't for all of you who read, follow, favor and review I wouldn't know what to do with myself.

I hope that you all stay safe and healthy during this time!

Lots of love,

Sara