Blue

Chapter I

Sakura stretched her arms and massaged her neck, checking papers on a weekend was tiresome. She sighed, remembering her class. Why her class always groaned and whined as loud as possible every time she announced a quiz was beyond her. They should be glad that she was making sure they knew their basics before they make a foolish Genin out of themselves. Besides, she personally thought Iruka-sensei was very lenient during her time.

The crimson sky outside her window told her it was almost evening. Maybe this time she'd be able to drag Sasuke along for a dinner with Naruto. It had been months ---almost a year--- since all three of them were together for a simple night's out. Besides, he wanted to hear all about Naruto's loud students on their first class A mission.

She went to Sasuke's house first. Tonight, she wouldn't accept a "no" for an answer. She diligently knocked on the door, without halt until Sasuke's face showed. "See, opening a door wasn't so hard, was it?"

Sasuke gave her a tired look. "Sakura, is there anything wrong?"

"Nothing. Come on, dress up and let's go to Naruto's." She smiled, pointedly placing her foot between the door and the frame before Sasuke could close it.

"I thought he's out for a mission?"

"He should've been back this afternoon. Let's go to his house first and if he's not there, I'm sure he's at the ramen shop." She pushed the door further and tried to shoo Sasuke in his room.

In truth, Sasuke wasn't feeling up to it but Sakura had been trying to get him to go out for dinner every weekend. If relenting would leave him in peace, then so be it. He went to his room and changed into something comfortable enough to fight in. Knowing Naruto, trouble wasn't too far. He couldn't remember when he last saw Naruto, but he doubted they'd end up arguing that night.

The walk to Naruto's house was mostly filled with Sakura's chatter about her students, and then of Naruto's young team. They were both careful not to touch on any of their troublesome pasts and with that silent agreement, the conversation was light and comfortable.

Sasuke leaned on the wall while Sakura relentlessly knocked on the door. Somehow, he knew that Naruto was not inside but he didn't want to spoil Sakura's cheerfulness. He might as well give in and try to enjoy his former teammate's company.

"Looks like he's not here yet…let's try the ramen shop."

Naruto wasn't there either.

"I'm sorry, Sasuke-kun."

He shrugged and placed a hand on her shoulder. "It's okay. We'll drag him out tomorrow night. Are you sure he's supposed to be back?"

"Yes. It was just an A class mission and it shouldn't take his team longer than a week to finish it. Next time, I'll check on him first before disturbing you." She laughed uncomfortably; deeply apologetic and disappointed about the blunder. What would've been a nice night of reunion made a sudden end before it even began.

Not to disappoint Sakura, Sasuke decided to treat her instead. "Next time, Naruto's going to pay for our ramen. For now, I'll pay."

Sakura couldn't believe her ears and stared at Sasuke. "Are you...?"

Sasuke chose not to reply and just ordered their food. He knew Sakura was worried that Naruto hadn't returned on time, and he was, too.

NEXT