Title: White Widow
Chapter: Six
Author: Blue Rose
Rating: M (Hard R)
Pairing: Sasuke/Sakura
Summary: "Running away was easy; not knowing what to do next was the hard part." - Sakura needed to stop fantasizing about running away to some other life, and start figuring out the one she had. [Sasu/Saku, Modern AU]
Warnings: Adult Content
Disclaimer: I own nothing, and I damn sure don't make a single red cent for this either. So please, don't sue the Blue.
Huge shout out to my new beta - CherryBerry12. Thank you :) 💖
If you enjoyed please consider leaving a review. Even if it's just a word or two, I really appreciate any feedback. I welcome emoji's and Lenny Faces too 💙💙💙 (づ ͡° ³ ͡°)づ . Thank you so for reading :)
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:✧･ ﾟ･*･ﾟ･✧ B R ✧･ﾟ･*･ﾟ ･✧:
Chapter Six
"Jesus, what did you eat today? Where did it all come from?!"
If Sakura could, she would have pinched her nose closed, but she needed both hands for the task of bagging up the dog poop while keeping the leash out of it. She didn't understand why dogs never watched where they were going and tried to keep Akumaru from stepping in his droppings before she could clean up.
Finishing, she tossed the mess in a waste bin they passed before crossing the street.
"That crap was almost as big as your head." Sakura laughed.
The pair had just come from a small park at the end of the block and were now heading to their intended destination. On the surface, it was just a smart thing to do — letting the dog relieve himself before they needed to go inside. In reality, it was her just procrastinating. And she used every second of it.
However, the growing puppy didn't care much about taking a stroll today. Especially when they approached the towering highrise. This was his other home, and his panting and excitement signaled he knew exactly where they were.
"Ok! Ok! We're going."
Approaching the entrance, Sakura was careful to watch her step while she admired the way the evening sun reflected off the smoked glass and steel. There was a dark, eerie beauty she found in the looming structure before them.
The last time she'd been here, a thin layer of snow had covered all of the asphalt. Frigid temperatures caused the flurries to stick to the ground like falling powder — perfect for making snow angels.
She remembered that the exterior had been decorated with strings of twinkling blue lights as well with poinsettias arranged beneath the windows in a festive holiday display.
Thank goodness the weather was not below freezing as it was prior, months ago. Though, that didn't stop a wave of nerves from washing over her, wondering again how she managed to get herself into another weird situation.
Oh, yeah... that's right.
It started with a favor.
It always started with a favor.
Because she had a difficult time saying no and was consistently willing to lend a hand to anyone in need.
Which is why she was opening the glass doors to walk through the vestibule, speaking to the concierge in the lobby to give her name.
Well, it was much too late to change her mind and Sakura sighed, releasing Akamaru from her arms after the elevator doors closed. Making a steady ascent to the top floor, she mulled over the reasons she was there in the first place.
Sasuke had asked if she could return the dog to Kiba's family.
He'd never met any of them, and correctly presumed she would know how to reach someone. It wasn't much of a stretch. She and Kiba had been friends since freshman year in high-school.
Sakura conceded to do his bidding, but followed up with some questions of her own — like, why was he watching over the dog to begin with?
Despite being guarded, Sasuke answered all of her questions. Still, she couldn't shake the feeling things were being left unsaid.
What quickly followed however, were thoughts of the canine's owner. And soon she felt the dormant bud of concern blooming within her, once again.
Kiba.
Gently nudging away the worry she'd felt, Sakura went along with it. Especially after Sasuke revealed that it was against his lease to have a dog — up until now he'd been taking a risk.
Feeling a little sorry that he'd been keeping him, she agreed to return the pup. Which is how she'd ended up here.
The elevator came to a smooth stop at its designated floor, the thick doors sliding open. Akamaru pulled her down the hall, towards the other home he knew by scent and memory.
Sakura only knew they were at the correct place because of the 'PH3' plaque beside the red door.
Reaching out, she pulled down on the lever-like knob, entering once a voice beckoned her inside.
"Hello?"
She unhooked the leash from the studded collar just to watch the ball of fur run deeper into the suite, his tiny paws gaining traction against the mahogany planks of wood. Following seconds later, she rounded the corner to catch sight of a figure standing near an alcove.
Sakura looked on as Akamaru whined near the person's feet, pawing at their immaculately pressed pants. He then proceeded to roll onto his back, completely exposing his belly.
Sakura brought her eyes up to greet a woman whose tips of brown hair curled around her sharp jaw. Defined lips were painted a deep violet with a peremptory tone to match. Her voice was smooth and rich, whisking past her ears.
"Sakura."
Tsume Inuzuka stood as statuesque as royalty. Her commanding aura matched the intensity in her swirling, chocolate brown eyes. The attitude alone was worthy of any crown, but she was far too brutish for something as dainty as a tiara. Her brassknuckles nature had served her well in business...
And, maybe in her personal life as well?
The matriarch was already married to husband number three if she remembered correctly. Despite being rather intimidating, there was another side to her... a more gentle side. Something that was softer around the edges and reserved only for a select few.
Sakura hoped she could tap into that side now. Maybe it would help, especially when a certain topic was brought up.
"It's been a while, hasn't it?"
Reaching down, the brunette picked up the squirming pooch to move him under her arm, briefly inspecting his form with a keen eye.
"Hello, Mrs. Inuzuka...Er! I mean, 'Shimazu' now... isn't it?" Sakura ran a hand across her neck, smiling to cover the wince she so desperately tried to hide.
"Tsume is fine. Come here, let me get a good look at you. You've finally got some meat on those bones, I see."
Almond-shaped nails dipped in black lifted the young girl's chin, fingers tilting her face and Sakura felt a blush warming her cheeks under the scrutiny.
"Ah... yes, it has been a while. Thank you for meeting with me on such short notice."
The dark-haired woman moved to sit on a loveseat, reaching for her glass of wine.
"Lucky it's not the weekend, or I would have been in California by now," she asserted, swirling the Merlot around in the wine glass.
Sakura politely declined the offer to join her with a glass of her own. She did accept a seat, however, sitting across from the older woman as she continued.
"I thought he would've lasted a lot longer before dumping his responsibilities on someone else. Speaking of which..."
Tsume raised her eyes to meet Sakura's, the tips of her nails clicking against the glass before she pressed on.
"You mentioned that you haven't heard from that son of mine. He's decided to stop responding to me too, which has been very irritating."
The layered ends of Sakura's high ponytail swung across the top of her shoulders as she shook her head. Her bangs rested partially in her face but their eyes remained locked as she confirmed what she'd said earlier over the phone.
"No, I have not."
The hand that was twirling the glass stopped, digits gripping the stem while the ambrosia settled within.
Shadows from the lowering sun tilted across the walls signaling the oncoming sunset. Quiet and sobering — as something stirred in the air and the mood changed.
Sakura sat immobile and tried not to fidget under the weight.
The tension was broken when Tsume released a hum, cutting off eye contact to look down. Reaching over, she grabbed a piece of prosciutto arranged on a platter from the coffee table.
Sakura slowly released the breath she had no idea she was holding until then.
Hesitating, she felt the need to tread lightly but knew it was necessary to shed some light on the situation. Be that as it may, it didn't look like she was going to be discovering anything new with the way things were going.
"That's actually why I wanted to speak with you. He hasn't responded to my messages either. At first, I wasn't worried, because of... well-."
Kiba's history of disappearing was left unspoken, but Tsume grunted in understanding, taking a long sip from her glass.
His mother was instantly reminded of his past rebellious acts. Although there usually would be some sort of... warning that preceded any dark turn.
Her remarrying or becoming bi-coastal were just a few examples. She could remember the fights and fallouts that followed. Especially regarding his choice of outlets.
The reckless behavior, the unsavory habits, the disagreements... she remembered them all.
But...
Tsume thought they'd long moved past that. He seemed to finally settle down... as much as someone like him could. He'd been taking care of his apartment, had stayed out of jail-
As far as she knew...
-and out of most forms of trouble for quite some time now. It was hard to recall the last time she'd received a phone call that ended with screams, threats, or sour disappointment. She'd hate to think he'd regressed.
"Is there anyone he's been hanging around? A new group of friends, maybe? Other than Ino and yourself—"
Tsume was in the dark to whom he was associating with these days. "...he rarely tells me anything and I can barely keep up with him."
Sakura was not the type to be dishonest but she found herself in an uncomfortable position. Choosing her words carefully and hoping her deception wouldn't come back to bite her in the ass, she gave what she thought would be just enough.
"No one I've talked to has seen or heard from him either. I'm sorry."
She was here to get as much information as she could, without giving too much away.
All because...
Sasuke had also asked that she keep his name out of everything. As far as Kiba's folks were concerned, he didn't exist. And he'd like to keep it that way.
He had his reasonings; he'd murmured some explanation and Sakura relented because it made sense at the time. Maybe not giving names was the safest route.
But now that she was here, it was uncomfortable as hell, and her stomach felt like bats were fluttering away in it. The calm expression she presented on the surface, however, was flawless.
Moments ticked, ticked, ticked away... before Tsume finally waved her fingers dismissively. She'd heard everything she needed to hear. Crossing one leg over the other, the perfect cuff in her pants rested against her heel.
"No matter. Someone is already looking into it. If that boy thinks he can get away with ignoring me, he has another thing coming. I'm just wondering what foreign jail cell or backwater whore house I'll need to rescue him from this time," she sneered, gulping down the last of her wine.
Sakura adjusted slightly, not saying a word but giving her a small nod. But her fingers curled into fists hidden within her pockets, the rings she wore digging into her skin.
It's not like she wanted him to be caught behind bars. Or needing to be dragged to a health clinic the next day, for thorough testing.
It's just...
At least he would be found, and all this fuss would have been all over nothing. But until that happened...
Sakura gave Tsume a small smile, hoping to ease away any concern this conversation may have brought.
Hidden away on the inside, she wished someone was there for her right now — who could return the favor. Someone who would gift her the same comfort she'd just offered Tsume to maybe put her mind at ease. Because even after speaking with his mother and listening to her confident answer...
Sakura could not shake the feeling that just wouldn't go away.
Something was amiss.
But she hoped that she was off track... and just being paranoid. And that his mother was right.
This was just one of those... 'Kiba times'.
It's exactly what a large part of her was wishing for... and what she needed to believe.
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✧･ﾟ* : *ﾟ･✧
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He hated that damn bow.
Sure... on its own, it was harmless.
That was all an illusion, though. Being an inanimate object did not stop it from being a vexation.
And just how could something so insignificant, be so... troublesome? After all, it was merely a decorative accessory, attached to a pair of heels. Looking so innocent, affixed to the leather band caging her slender ankle.
But looks could be deceiving.
It became problematic when his eyes traveled north. And for the life of him, Sasuke couldn't fathom how a few inches on a shoe could be so devastating. The manner in which they elongated her legs as his focus strayed upward. Following an invisible path along smooth, pale skin.
Limbs that seemed to go on and on for days — filling out to thighs that were soon hidden from view beneath sparkle.
The dress she wore did nothing but accentuate her curves; dips and valleys that filled out an enticing figure.
Sakura's slender neck supported her head as it cocked to the side, smiling at whatever some teen girl in front of her said. And her green eyes crinkled in mirth as she let out a laugh, bringing the clear plastic cup to her lips for a drink.
Speculating if she always smiled that brightly for everyone.
Sasuke tore his gaze away, eyes landing on the DJ booth in the corner — the LED lights around the display throbbed to the beat of the track, playing across the speakers.
Like hell he'd be caught staring.
It wasn't like they hadn't just spent... what? The last two hours together? Getting everything ready for the party. He'd seen her then...
Same outfit…
Same smile…
Same god damn heels.
So what had changed? Could he not keep himself from finding her?
His eyes constantly tracking her, flickering to trace her migration around the open space.
Even when he caught himself it wasn't enough to stop the cycle from repeating. His eyes would be lowered, idly scanning the party, not focused on anything in particular.
Then...
A flash of sequins before his eyes would settle on that little black bow.
Wasn't that the textbook definition of insanity? Doing the same thing over and over and expecting different results?
Sasuke's mind didn't pass along that bit of information to the rest of his body. Instead, his eyes would start the trek all over again, his avaricious gaze taking her in before cutting away.
Seeking out a distraction, he leaned against the expansive window behind him.
The tempered glass usually flooded the suite with natural light during the day. Now, it hummed against his back, miniature vibrations warbling along the surface from the tracks deep base. And it felt cool against him as he sighed.
Taking another swing of beer, Sasuke hoped the warm sensation he felt didn't spread to his face. But at least he could make it appear the fault of alcohol and not the salacious thoughts starting to run rampant in his mind.
Like...
If the rest of her was as soft as the skin on her inner wrist was. The pad of his thumb had brushed against it when he had passed something to her earlier. And watching now, at the exposed skin her dress didn't cover...
Damn him if it certainly didn't look the part. He would only need a few seconds to graze his hands across the perceived silkiness to know the answer.
Lowering the amber bottle, he swallowed thickly, sighing after. A quick look at his watch had him quickly releasing another one, wondering again why he was still there. Glancing over his shoulder at the snow-covered streets below, a minute passed — before a prickling behind his ear caught his attention.
He was being watched.
Everything around them started to fade away when his eyes suddenly met hers. Twinkling stars locked onto his own, piercing through the smoky haze around them, her focus solely on him. And suddenly, Sasuke's mouth was no longer satisfied with the bitter taste of alcohol.
No...
He was craving something else entirely.
And as he moved closer—
.
His vision completely went white.
.
And like coming up for air after treading murky waters, he broke through the surface and was brought back to the present… somewhat painfully.
Surely, the sound of flesh meeting leather must have been heard during the impact. But his brain only registered the sound after as it echoed in his mind.
Then there was the ringing.
Lots and lots of ringing.
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Ka-KLUMP-PAK!
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whoooo-sh...
.
THUD.
.
...
"...-ke?"
He could have sworn that the saying went: you were supposed to see stars.
Not feel them.
'Oh shit that hurt.'
"...-uke? Sasuke?! Are you alright?"
'Fucking stars.'
"Sasuke...?"
And fuck him and his own negligence for not seeing that coming.
The ringing in his left ear dimmed low enough that he was finally able to hear the question. Blinking back the few spots that danced behind his eyelids, Sasuke grunted, pushing away the hands waving in front of his face. When there were no longer four eyes blinking down at him, he rose to sit up.
The boxing gloves that had been strapped to Itachi's hands were now lying between them, his profile relaxing though remaining in its hunched form.
"You were supposed to dodge the second hook. I pulled back but it was too late." He fussed over him again, but Sasuke batted away the concern, sitting up fully when the ringing in his ear finally disappeared.
He felt a trail of moisture slide down his temple but breathed a sigh of relief, realizing that it was only sweat. He still counted his blessings though, thankful it wasn't his brother's leg that flew at him instead. If it was, his head would have been knocked clean from his shoulders.
Sasuke removed the padded mitts he wore, tearing at the velcro with his perfect white teeth — more embarrassed than hurt. His brother had dangerously quick hands, and he should have known better than to allow his mind to wander when they were in the middle of sparring.
"Where were you?" the elder asked, mirroring his unspoken thoughts while moving away to grab them water from the kitchen.
'So he's going to call me out after all...'
Sasuke huffed, choosing to stay seated on the mat below the hanging punching bag. He slowly worked his jaw open and closed a few times, rotating the Temporomandibular Joint.
Good... nothing was broken.
"Nowhere." Sasuke deadpanned, feeling along the curve for swelling.
Itachi raised a brow at him as he passed him the chilled bottle. Knowing where further questioning would lead to, he pivoted to another topic.
"I see your temporary house guest is no longer here..."
Taking a much-needed sip, Sasuke began to explain what had transpired. Of how he had gotten Sakura to facilitate Akamaru's return, along with agreeing to a few terms.
Terms that were presented more as a... suggestion, of course. Maybe gather a little information while she was there if she could?
He took full advantage of her gentle disposition, to coax her a little. Anything to help seal the deal.
And when it was all said and done, they parted ways with an agreement in place.
Sasuke didn't realize the amount of silence that stretched between them until he looked up, catching his brother's stare. Keen orbs continued to study him, inky depths watching...
Causing his own brows to snap together.
"What?"
"..."
The corner of his brother's mouth twitched, deep lines appearing across his face before smoothing again.
"What?"
Sasuke didn't want to repeat himself, but the silence had struck a nerve. It brought back memories of when they were younger and how he felt whenever he was overlooked, ignored, or even excluded from certain things.
Being an adult now, he could understand why things were handled the way they were and he harbored no resentment. However, that didn't stop the feelings from returning every now and again and bringing him back to the times when he used to be shooed away.
Itachi never bothered to take the time to explain anything, because Sasuke was too young at the time. No one around had felt the need to, back then.
And then there were the other occurrences, where he'd be left with nothing more than a whisper of— "Next time, Sasuke."
As fleeting as it came, the memories all disappeared when Itachi finally caved.
Learning lessons from the past, Itachi saw no reason to get Sasuke unnecessarily riled up.
"Nothing."
It would have been convincing, too... if they hadn't known each other so well.
Resisting the urge to roll his eyes, Sasuke leaned back on his elbows, his damp shirt stretching across his torso. He dragged his water bottle with him as a fresh breeze stirred across the loft from an open window.
"Just spit it out already. You can either say it now and get it over with. Or later..." His nose twisted as if he was going to sneeze.
"...no doubt in some cryptic way. Do us both a favor and spare me the hassle," Sasuke ended boldly, taking another swig and draining the bottle below the halfway mark.
It took some time, but pointing out the obvious had its desired effect and Itachi finally asked what had been on his mind.
What came was an inquiry about the woman — whose name, he'd noticed; was always spoken with a certain... tone.
Was there something going on that he should know about?
And since Itachi had avoided using a condescending tone when asking the question, the prodding managed to disarm him.
"Nothing..." Sasuke answered; slate-colored eyes drifting as his brother moved to sit near him. Breaking eye contact, a few of his fingers pressed into the padded mat underneath them.
"... at least, not yet?"
He always did find it difficult to keep things from his brother.
Itachi could have easily sprained his wrist while sitting; his weight careening with a jolt at the quiet admission. He recovered well enough, sitting down fully and eyeing his younger brother with veiled surprise.
And for a while, the only sound in the room came from the jingling chains holding up the punching bag, as it drifted in small circles near them.
Sasuke finally gathered the courage to glance up, but his brother's eyes were peering outside, deep in thought.
The sunlight kissed Itachi's low ponytail, gathered across one shoulder and his umber touched gaze looked far away.
The question surprised him when his lips suddenly moved.
"You like this girl, Sasuke?"
He wasn't sure why, but he flinched.
What was he supposed to say, Sasuke thought as his teeth pinched the inside of his bottom lip. The tip of his tongue could almost feel the impression left by Sakura's teeth from their last kiss. The ghost of the intimate touch came to mind at the most inopportune time.
Did they really have to get into this when he still couldn't find the right words to describe what was happening between him and Sakura? It was all just one big ball of complication as far as Sasuke was concerned.
An intricate web, twisting with many threads of complexity...
With the label of 'friends,' not quite fitting...
And it was far too soon to be thinking about 'love'...
But 'just fucking' was too crude, and there was an interest there beyond the physical — as nice as that was.
A string of fate that seemed to constantly pluck at his attention whenever she was near, while driving him to distraction when she wasn't.
And it was comical and annoying at the same damn time. And, well...
Ah fuck, he'd asked for this, didn't he? Him and his big mouth.
"I-..." Sasuke hesitated, blinking in contemplation before trying again. "What I mean is-"
Long fingers wrapped in protective white tape lifted. Two digits extended to brush against Sasuke's forehead, effectively cutting him off.
"I just want you to be mindful." A sharp gaze fixated onto his own, and even though he took a breath to respond — his brother's gentle smile gave him pause.
"I also want you to be happy," he continued, lips curving into a knowing grin.
Rising from the mat with a stretch, Itachi made his way down the hall towards the bathroom, leaving his younger sibling alone with his thoughts. He also ignored the small frown zeroing in on his retreating back.
Sasuke slowly shook his head, following the figure of his brother until he disappeared around the corner.
Whatever surprise that lingered was quickly overshadowed with something else as he gulped down another drink of water.
An unexpected flare of delight engulfed him as he slowly returned his brother's grin...
And there was only the empty room left to witness the handsome sight of Sasuke's dimple — a rare, but genuine smile pursing his lips at the unclouded approval he'd just received.
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✧･ﾟ* : *ﾟ･✧
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"Is that the last of it? What about that other set in the back?" one mover asked the other as they stood near the rear of the box truck.
"The dresser with the mirror? Nah, that's going to a couple in Bethesda. That's our next stop. Here, take this when you go up and drop that off. She already tipped us... just get them to sign," the driver told him, closing the rolling door when he jumped down from the back of the vehicle.
The clipboard was placed on top of the sealed, brown box the taller mover was already carrying in his arms.
Making sure it was perfectly balanced in his hands, he turned to go up the freight elevator... making one last and final trip.
The front doors to the newly leased space were still propped open, and he placed the box down, just inside the sizable foyer.
"This is the last one," he called out, his russet eyes scanning the invoice, looking for the client's name. "We just need an autograph from Ms.-... ah-."
"I'll do it!"
There was a conscious effort not to look down at the exposed legs of the young blonde as she came bounding towards him, hips swaying in a pair of forest green cotton shorts.
He also did his best not to stare at the: 'I love cock' written in graffiti font on her shirt — and the word 'tails' stamped right below it in smaller print.
Though slightly crude, the tongue-in-cheek message had made him chuckle most of the afternoon while he was working.
Ino smiled brightly, nibbling on the capped pen while her eyes took their time to locate the signature line.
Tugging on the brim of his hat, the helper began to calculate his chance of success in scoring her number. And in turn go completely against company policy.
His opportunity to risk it all was interrupted when the owner of the suite appeared from around a corner.
Sakura shooed the golden femme away, signing the papers instead. She thrust the paperwork back in his hands after thanking him.
Mouthing a quick 'sorry,' Sakura apologized for the actions of her all-too-flirtatious friend.
The company had done an amazing job and had earned the positive review she'd leave.
Ino twirled away to retrieve a stash — hidden earlier on the built-in shelf, snagging a lighter as well. Turning, she climbed over the back of the sofa.
The hand holding the bright red plastic waved in their general direction.
"We really can't thank you enough. Did you guys have to train to be so amazing?" Ino climbed down with a purr and a wink, still flirting as she settled on the floor.
Sakura let out a nervous giggle, ushering the smitten guy out the front doors.
"Is there anyone who is spared from your relentless-... philandering?" She huffed, unlatching the mechanism holding both doors open, closing them tightly.
Really, her friend could be so embarrassing sometimes.
"What can I say? I love a man in uniform. Besides, I left them alone for most of the afternoon… you should be thanking me." Ino twisted the grinder in her hands, her spine resting against the front of the large sectional.
Sakura slowly came over to stretch out behind her, laying down on her stomach. Sinking into the cushions, she felt the tension slowly release from her overworked muscles.
Despite any possible... sexual harassment lawsuits, she was glad her bestie was there lending a helping hand. Moving was always a grueling task, so any help was appreciated. She'd even done some manual labor when she helped Sakura paint a room back at her old apartment.
Leaving the place in immaculate condition scored her most of the security deposit back. Her comrade teased that it was unfair and that the only reason she did was that the place was barely lived in.
"I'm just glad it's all done." Sakura mumbled from her sprawled position, her sweat pants resting dangerously low on her hips. They were already rolled down twice at the waist, and now a bit of blue cotton peeked from underneath.
Ino paused, oceanic eyes spanning the layout. One eyebrow pinched inward after taking in the bare dwelling.
"I wouldn't exactly call this... 'done,' Forehead. You have your bed and this monstrous couch. Other than that, you really need to get this place decorated."
'Let the nit-picking begin.'
"Yeah, yeah..." Sakura mumbled around a throw pillow, her face still buried in softness. "I'll order a bunch of stuff later."
There were three different flavors of frozen yogurt chilling in the freezer. And her books and medical journals were unpacked and stored away. As far as she was concerned, everything else could wait.
Ino wasn't convinced but instead concentrated on rolling the canappa before her, grunting at the stickiness.
They still had to officially 'bless the house,' after all.
Sakura turned towards her, raising a hand to cradle her head, cheeks still pink from burrowing into the pillow. It was only when she was spaced out that a particular thought drifted back to the forefront of her mind.
And with all the bustle from today, there hadn't been a quiet moment up until now, to bring it up.
"Did that guy ever call back again?"
As it turned out, Tsume wasn't kidding when she said someone was looking into Kiba's disappearance.
A private investigator reached out to her, asking a series of questions. Sakura told him exactly what she'd already shared, her story and timelines never changing. Not that there was much to tell.
Afterward, she'd given her best friend a heads up, instincts warning that she'd be next.
Much later he did get ahold of Ino, though, she had very little to say. Her answers were similar to Sakura's, as they'd both lost contact with Kiba around the same time.
And she made it clear that she didn't know anything beyond that.
Licking her lips, Ino brought a knee up to her chest, her sock covered foot dragging across the throw rug while she remained mindful of the low table in front of her.
"After the first time? No."
She then extended her tongue to wet the ends of paper as she expertly rolled the joint. Humming in affirmation, she eyed her handy work.
"He was a pushy bastard though. When you talked to him, did you tell him anything? Maybe let something slip you shouldn't have?"
Sakura sat up in surprise.
"What? No..." She shook her head although the blonde was still facing forward, away from her.
An eerie feeling ricocheted in her tummy.
"D-... did you?"
Ino snorted, flicking bits of grass from her nail bed. "I should have," she murmured.
"Ino!"
She was just being a bitch, but it's what she did when she felt annoyed... agitated.
"To be honest, I'm not getting a good feeling about any of it. Not to mention... a P.I. coming around? Asking questions? This is getting to be a bit much."
What's next?
The police?
It was not a good look to have a bunch of authorities hanging about, despite the reason for their presence.
"I know..." Sakura began, the cushions shifting under her movements. "I don't like any of this either... but even Sasuke-"
The blonde spun around so fast she feared whiplash. Sparks of contention lit the glare Ino threw her way.
"We don't know him, Sakura!"
When she yelled, it surprised them both, their eyes wide and staring. It hadn't been on purpose. Of course it hadn't been, and Ino couldn't remember the last time she'd been so quick to snap.
So, after taking a much-needed breath, the apology floated in the air between them.
But not for what she said.
No...
She'd meant that.
But… for the way she said it? Maybe she was a bit too harsh. She regretted it the moment it left her lips, so she made another attempt to apologize, keeping her voice even and much calmer.
"We don't know him. Now, I'm not saying he's a bad guy or anything, but he's Kiba's friend..." Ino stressed, "not ours. I think he's cool and all, but we need to think with our heads here, and not with..."
Her eyes lowered to Sakura's lap, hearing the sharp intake of breath when the seated girl immediately stiffened with indignation.
"I'm not!" Sakura tried to defend herself. And if her leg wasn't twisted beneath her body she would have snapped her legs shut.
'Guilty, much?'
"Then we need to think smart. I don't know about you, but I can't be seen mixed up with anything shady. Having some private eye sniffing around is a no-go for me."
Ino turned back to the low table in front of her, her thumb rolling over the spark wheel twice, before the lighter flickered to life.
Sakura sighed, shoulders dropping as she just let it go. She looked instead to the beautiful vase of flowers sitting close by.
The arrangement of orange roses, honeysuckle — and a few other things she couldn't name were sorted together.
It was a beautiful house warming gift from Ino, and she appreciated the floral scent as it drifted through the air. But she knew even its sweet smell wouldn't stand a chance against the thick haze that was sure to come.
Sakura rolled to her feet, moving around her friend to approach the veranda door to crack it open. Nudging it slightly, she felt the crisp breeze charming its way past the small opening and into the room.
Ino continued her musings on an exhale, swirls of grey, blueish smoke wafting towards the darkened recessed lighting above.
"Sasuke was right about one thing, though..."
She stood up, approaching her friend from behind and passing along the lit herb. "We should stay out of it. Besides, someone is looking for him... his family has it covered."
Darting off to find an ashtray, she left the pink-haired woman to lean against the glass with her private thoughts, gazing at the skyline beyond the metal railings of her patio.
Taking a long drag, Sakura hoped the calming effects would kick in soon and burn away her lingering restlessness.
Everyone, it seemed, was just shying the Kiba issue away or even brushing it all aside. And it made her feel so damn torn inside.
Reaching around, she patted herself down, feeling around for her phone.
Oh, she knew what was going to happen... but she went for it anyway.
There wasn't a choice, was there? Besides, she was nothing if not steadfast.
And while fully aware of what was going to happen once she pressed 'SEND', Sakura didn't hesitate.
Her rather nimble fingers typed away, making another attempt to at least... try to do something.
.
Message:
Just let me know you're ok...
Please?
.
Sakura's hand reached up to remove the joint from her lips, holding her breath with a deep inhale as she re-read the note again.
Sending out the text, she slowly blew out a trail of smoke.
A familiar notification sound cackled in the air as the last cloud left her peach-stained lips. And her eyes caught sight of what showed up on the screen.
The message was undeliverable.
Just like the previous dozen she'd sent before that.
Some of the messages she sent were laced with concern, others spewing threats of sterilization. She quickly discovered that anything sent out was shortly returned after bouncing through mobile data and Wifi signals.
All of her messages went unanswered.
But whatever disappointment or irritation she felt was quickly tempered down as conflict echoed in her mind.
"'...-e.'"
Because wasn't this the same thing she'd done in the past? Completely ghosting everyone close to her?
Absconding without a care in the world, regardless of who it might hurt, or what it could affect?
Sakura had exhibited the same pattern of behavior herself a while ago. And at her worst, she had gone days without responding, keeping her distance.
"'...-ite.'"
The memories surfaced like the smoke drifting past her face as she took another hit, contemplating just how much it sucked... being on the other side now.
"'...-rite.'"
Ino returned, handing Sakura the found ashtray while quickly plucking the weed from her aloof grip. Humming a tune, she went over to go see about playing some music.
But Sakura stayed put, unable to shake the word that haunted her mind.
One that felt weighted like the heavy crystal she held in her grasp. Looking down, she caught the way a few rainbows appeared with every deviation of the ashtray, and every time a flash of color reflected she imagined a voice whispering in cool, mocking tones inside of her head.
"'...-crite.'"
Taunting all the emotions echoing through her, even as she accepted the bitter truth in the word, repeating over and over again...
"'Hypocrite.'"
✧･ﾟ* : *ﾟ･✧
"The sky is clear and you can see for miles across the grasslands. But as easy as she could look beyond the Serengeti, she could just as easily be spotted.
Shoulders hunched low, the lioness hugs her body close to the ground. Blending in among the straw-colored grass... she inches her way closer. She must eliminate as much distance between her and the intended prey before launching her attack. Her sisters are in tune with her, circling the herd on either side, bellies low to the ground as they stalk closer.
The pack has not eaten for days, and this may be their last chance before the grazing animals migrate north and out of their territory. There are plenty of mouths to feed back at the den and a few hungry cubs who will not survive the rest of the season without a steady supply of food."
The prone figure nibbled on the last of his fish cake sandwich, his heavy boots hanging off the edge of the loveseat. His large frame laid sideways on the furniture, leaning against the armrest as he watched the clip on his screen.
He always was a fan of a good old-fashioned hunt. There were just some things in life, that only Mother Nature could do with such... finesse.
You could learn a lot if you sat back and watched her work.
"The wildebeests were on alert, taking turns to raise their heads to keep on the lookout."
He listened to the thick, South African accent as it narrated the encounter playing on the phone. The screen zoomed in as long blades of grass hung from the wildebeests' chewing mouths while they kept an eye on the young calves. Soon, the camera panned out to show how close the hunters had gotten.
"It is far too late to be overly cautious now. The lioness and her sisters were in striking range and had only to pick their target.
Digging their long claws into the heated dirt below, they sprint across the plain.
The chase was on..."
His phone suddenly chirped, and a notification for a new message appeared at the top.
The man's narrowing squint flickered up but quickly went back to the action.
The screen flashed to the pounding of hooves kicking up clouds of dry dirt. And he focused, excited to watch what happened next.
"The ground vibrates as the herd stampede away, now catching sight of the fawn and black death machines barreling towards them. The chaos is enough for one to lose its footing, one back leg twisting beneath its lumbering body."
The front hooves clambered against the ground while the frightened animal tried to gain leverage, but it was too late.
"The seasoned lioness is there in a blink, ready to capitalize on the last mistake the prey would ever make in its life."
Slow-motion captured the way the lioness's claws hooked into the large antelope, trying to gain purchase as her jaws opened wide across the prey's neck.
The beast finally got to all four hooves just in time to feel the weight of another lioness as she bit at its spine, her body hanging from its rear.
Losing strength and blood, the scared animal let out a long moan as the lions worked together to bring it down. A third lioness bit at its heels and soon the pressure was enough. A billow of dirt rose in the air as all of their combined weight crashed to the dusty, hot earth below.
The narrator's voice decreased in volume once again, as another message notification came through — the rhythmic beeping much louder than the nature video, still playing on the screen in full-screen mode.
Sighing, the man sat up straighter, swinging his legs to the floor to check.
.
Message:
Any updates?
Message:
Or has this been a waste of time?
.
'Damn.'
And the documentary special was starting to get to the good parts too. Locking the screen, he stood tall in a stretch, straightening the henley shirt he wore and trudged to the adjoining room.
The small apartment was oftentimes used as a temporary working space. Although rarely used for the more... messy parts of their job, it was quite convenient for quick meetups. And with the newest development, it made for a well suited temporary office.
Located just behind a deli, but with a hidden entrance and secured parking, it had only made the best sense to set up shop here, for now.
The next room was much darker with the blinds drawn the way they were, but multiple computer monitors glared with artificial light as the man came to stand behind the seated teen. A pretty penny had gone into the elaborate setup — more than a few parts couldn't be bought in just any store.
There were a few programs open that he was familiar with while scanning the screens, but most he was not.
And as intelligent as the man thought himself to be, he would never presume to understand what any of the letter and number combinations meant, trailing across the monitor on the left.
"Looks like you are up and running. What's the status?"
"I think I've found a way in," Chef replied, his eyes never leaving the screens as he typed away. His favorite song had just begun to play in his ear, and he was seconds away from turning it up before the guy showed up behind him.
"Think?" The man's arms folded and his lips melted into a frown.
"Yeah. What? I can't go back and get in the same way I did before, my dude. They've already patched that shit. I also don't want to set off any alarms. Gotta be sneaky," Chef offered in a huff.
Besides, he'd already tried the old route and got locked out. But when inside before, he had discovered some other cracks — and hoped to take advantage of one of them now.
"But you can do it?"
"Yeah. I can do it."
The teen went back to work when he felt the figure move away, turning up the volume to catch the tail end of his song. This was exactly why he never took up private offers before. But... the money should be worth having to deal with someone breathing down his neck, in the end.
The man turned away, sheathing the hidden knife back into its pouch in silence, leaving the room just as quietly as he entered. Hopefully, the teens' confidence would produce some good results... and soon.
A real shame too, that he didn't know...
His very life depended on it.
.
✧･ﾟ* : *ﾟ･✧
.
He was counting stacks of collected funds in his living room when one of his phones went off.
With their associate still missing, Itachi gave Sasuke the task of fulfilling a few orders and handling some assignments. He'd been on the run for the last few days, completing transactions that were left to be done in Kiba's absence. Just because he was missing didn't mean the business stopped and even grunt work needed to be seen to.
He'd used the opportunity to do a little digging on said person's disappearance, but not finding satisfactory answers left him feeling a little perturbed.
He had been in a sour mood as of late and could think of nothing that might turn things around.
So seeing her initials flash across his chirping phone's screen was bittersweet — he couldn't tell whether Sakura calling him at this very moment was a good thing or not.
There hadn't been a chance for him to reach out to her. Though, no matter how busy he was, he knew he should have found the time.
And maybe a part of him was feeling guilty for only texting a few things in the last few days...
But she had his number too, damnit. He had made sure of it when he physically saved it on her phone the last time they were together.
It was a personal number that not too many people had access to, at that.
She could have easily called sooner too, but that was neither here nor there.
Maybe her voice would be the ray of sunshine needed in the otherwise shithole-pit-of-darkness his mood had been sinking into.
"Hello?"
Sasuke's voice was unhurried and a little scratchy — coming out husky after not being used for the last two hours since he'd gotten home and showered. He thought he might be coming down with something and made a mental note to drink some hot tea later.
In the future, Sakura will share with him just how much his voice alone could make her feel sometimes — even when heard over the phone. No way she could tell him that right now, though. There was too much power in that bit of information and she resisted the urge to clear her own throat, hoping the whimsical flutters would go away soon.
"Sasuke..."
Maybe one day — around the same time, Sasuke would finally admit how fond he was of hearing her say his name, regardless of its nature or the mood.
Nonetheless, an eyebrow hitched as he wrapped a thick wad of bills with a beige rubber band.
"What? Did you misdial or something...?"
If the answer was yes he wasn't sure he could handle it — not with how this week was going.
But she said no, and he could just see the smile on her face when she released a small laugh. He imagined the soft, cupids bow he could still remember the feel of... if he tried.
Maybe it was a good thing she called, after all. Even after a bit of chatter, he could already feel some of the day's tension releasing from his moody form.
"Actually, the reason I'm calling was..."
Why haven't you called?
Why haven't you taken me out on a proper date yet?
Already he could hear that — and the other half-dozen questions, all in his mind before she finished.
He could almost feel his answers forming, and hoped they wouldn't sound like excuses when he said them out loud. Because... damnit, he'd been meaning to see a bit more of her. But with everything going on-
"-I... well, actually, Kankurō wanted to know if you were coming to his birthday party? He said you already received his invitation. And his order, which — by the way, I won't even ask what's on that list."
She trailed off but picked back up with a giggle.
"Anyway, he wanted to make sure you didn't forget, and were going to be there."
Wait.
What?
Having the question ring inside of his mind was not enough, and his mouth opened to express the dumbfounded stutter his brain felt.
"What?"
She'd called him only... for that?
It's all anyone was talking about, she said; oblivious with his disappointment. Sasuke listened as his hands slowed down to a full stop, trying to keep the frown at bay.
After the last few — irritating days he's had...
That's the reason they were finally speaking?
Kankurō?
Maybe talking when he was in low spirits wasn't the best idea after all. Something in his clipped tone must have given him away because after a bit of silence she hesitantly asked.
"Is everything ok? You sound a bit... distracted?"
"Yes."
'No.'
Bloody hell, that's not what he'd meant. No... it is what he meant, but he didn't mean to say it like that-
"Just finishing up something."
"Oh..."
'Fuck.'
Things were quickly spinning out of control and he needed to figure out a way to salvage it.
Or just end it... before he said something completely Sasuke like, and ruined it for everybody.
"Oh... well, it sounds like this is a bad time. I'm sorry-"
"Don't be-"
'Gentle... you idiot, nicer!?'
"-I mean, it's fine." Sasuke continued after the slight pause.
Ok, so that wasn't much better and he winced when a rubber band popped, stinging his hand before reaching for another one.
Sakura waited a beat but wasn't convinced. "Ok... well, I guess I'll see you there? Sorry to disturb you."
Sasuke fumbled with the phone for a second yet wasn't quick enough to stop her from ending the call, and he sat there after feeling like he just dropped the ball in a major way.
He groaned, dropping everything in his hands and grabbing at his locks while sinking further into the sofa. It was no use trying to text her back because even he knew when to cut his losses.
At least no one was there to witness the embarrassment... but he could hear the guffaw his cousin Shisui would have released if he could see him now.
'Real smooth, Uchiha... real smooth.'
.
End Chapter
✧･ﾟ* : *ﾟ･✧