Chapter 7: The Date

Author's Notes: Some more of Kakashi's POV in this chapter!

She perused her closet, hoping to find something appropriate to wear for this… she couldn't even say the word. It was 6 o'clock, so she only had an hour before he would show up for her. She idly wondered where he would even take her. He requested she wear a dress, so it must be a restaurant that was relatively formal. That's what resulted in her dilemma because she didn't exactly have a plethora of options when it came to dresses. She had a few outfits for going out to the local bar on occasion, but not too many for something such as this. Actually, she only had two dresses that were probably suitable.

The first was a dark green dress that had a plunging neckline, and she quickly ruled that one out. There was no way she was going to give him the impression she was trying to get his attention. Her eyes landed on the black dress, and she slipped it on. It was an off-the-shoulder, simple black dress that came to her knees. The sweetheart neckline was modest and showed only a small amount of cleavage. It had a slit on the thigh, but it was relatively tasteful. The material was soft, breathable, and the only issue she saw was how tight it was on her backside. It fit well everywhere else, but when she turned to the side, it definitely stretched firmly around her ass. She sighed; it couldn't be helped. She didn't have time to purchase a different dress now. She didn't bother with any makeup, because she wasn't going to put any extra effort into her appearance. She would look presentable, but she wasn't going to give him any reason to think she wanted any of this.

She had to figure out a way to convey her lack of interest in him, on any level, without it going badly. He knew she wouldn't sleep with him easily, but if his angle was to wine and dine her; well, she had to tell him that wasn't welcome either. She couldn't help but think she really had rotten luck when it came to romance, and dating, and men in general. She fawned after her unobtainable teammate when she was younger, to an embarrassing degree. Her best friend, Naruto, had a crush on her for the longest time and she could never return his affections – thankfully he has gotten over those feelings now. Most shinobi in the village didn't approach her for a date, and civilians tended to be out of the question. And now, she had the Copy Ninja, who forced her to go on a 'date' with him. Not exactly the normal romantic dynamics most girls her age were accustomed to. She was just lucky like that.

Her eyes closed briefly at the knock on the door; he was right on time. The man who was always late, was punctual for this. Of course, he was…

He wore a dinner jacket, which she couldn't recall ever seeing him in something so nice. He still had his face covered of course, but for him to wear anything outside of his ninja clothes or a t-shirt was peculiar. She saw him look her over slowly, and she squirmed uncomfortably. That intense, heated look was displayed on his face again.

"It would be in poor taste to not tell you how stunning you are."

"Thank you, sensei."

"Kakashi is fine."

"So, where are we going?" She purposely avoided addressing him as he requested.

"I think you'll like it." His eye crinkled as he said it before he gestured for her to leave the safety of her apartment. She jumped a little as she felt his hand close around the curve of her waist tightly, as if he had every right to do so. At least he didn't venture anywhere indecent, but his possessive hold was far from comforting. She fidgeted and tried a bit to pull out of his hold, but he wasn't budging.

"Relax Sakura," he said calmly.

Relax? As if he wasn't the source of her current discontent. As they made their way to their destination, she could feel the eyes on them. She could only imagine what people thought of the pair of them together. Kakashi's arm around her wasn't exactly discreet and said man didn't even seem to notice the attention on them. His composure was the same as always.

'He probably just doesn't care,' she thought.

Her brow furrowed because she couldn't say she recognized their destination. When they went inside, she nearly gasped out loud. It was immaculate. The entire establishment was incredibly unique. There were vivid ponds adorning the restaurant, with brightly colored fish and water lilies floating at the surface. On one side there was an entire rocky wall that had cascading waterfalls that were truly breathtaking. The air was rich with the scent of nature, which made sense considering the lush greenery. It was like a beautiful garden. It was amazing she's never been to this place before.

Kakashi appeared pleased at her reaction because he was smiling underneath his mask. "I take it you approve?"

"How have I never been here before," she asked in wonderment, forgetting her predicament for the moment.

"Well, it's, shall we say, pretty exclusive. Not too many people you know can dine here."

"Why?"

"It's not exactly affordable to most shinobi."

Oh. No wonder Ino's never tried taking her here before. It was definitely beyond both of their pay grades. Her stomach flipped unpleasantly at the fact he would take her somewhere like this.

"And it is for you?" She couldn't help but ask. Kakashi was notorious for being cheap with his money.

"I've been an elite shinobi for a long time now. S-rank missions pay especially well."

So, then why did he always try and foot the bill on someone else?

"I get a lot of entertainment out of making someone else pay, even if I do have the money."

'What an ass,' she couldn't help but think. He pawned the bill on Naruto several times before.

"Welcome to Keyaki Mr. Hatake. Two of you tonight?"

"That's right."

"Right this way sir."

Sakura noticed the waitress knew who he was on sight, which wasn't surprising, but still unnerving. The table they were seated at was right next to a particularly stunning koi pond.

"This place is wonderful," she complimented. She may be here against her will, but she still couldn't forget her manners.

"It is, isn't it."

"You didn't have to take me to a place like this." He shouldn't have taken her to a place like this was left unspoken. The menu in front of her was void of prices, which she knew meant the food was exorbitant.

"Of course, I didn't have to. I don't have to do anything. I wanted to."

She was silent at that, and it didn't seem he was particularly bothered with her lack of interest in conversing. The food was mouthwatering and Kakashi ordered multiple courses for them. Miso soup, an assortment of Sashimi, seaweed salad, seared scallops, steamed vegetables, and fried rice. She shuddered to think how much it all cost.

"Your hands have always been so lovely," he remarked, grabbing one that was resting on the table. He lightly traced the grooves of her palm and trailed up to the tips of her fingers.

"They're just hands, nothing special Kakashi-sensei."

"Yours are. They can create fissures in the ground, but they can also be so gentle. And I told you to stop calling me sensei when we're alone."

It was truly astonishing how much of an enigma he was. He could give her a compliment of the highest order in one breath, and at the same time dictate what she can do.

She didn't even want to look at the amount of money he handed over to the waitress as he paid their bill. She steeled her resolve; she would do this.

"Listen, I don't want to give you the wrong idea. This was incredibly thoughtful of you to take me here, truly, but I can't be what you want."

"And what is it that I want Sakura?" He hadn't let go of her hand.

"You're trying to seduce me."

"That's true," he said unabashed and maintaining eye contact.

"Even after what I said before?"

"I've known you for a long time now Sakura. Do you really think you need to keep reminding me of what type of woman you are?"

"So, then why are you doing this?" She asked bravely. She needed to hear him say it.

"One night with you won't cut it for me." He was unapologetically bold. There was no hesitance in his voice, no telltale signs of nervousness in his features. He was irritatingly self-assured.

"You're my sensei, I… don't see you as more than that."

"I'll change your mind." He didn't seem doubtful at all; his confidence was a bit nauseating.

"Do you sleep with other women now?" That wasn't normally a question she'd ask him, it wasn't her business after all, but she had to know. She had to know how serious he was about this.

He stared at her for a moment, with intensity, before replying, "No."

She felt herself disassociating at that. She didn't think he was actually capable of genuine feelings for her. But he was far more invested than she originally thought. His desire for her was enough that he was willing to forsake other women, for the time being at least, to have her.


He could see the figurative wheels turning in her beautiful head at his response to her. He wasn't going to skirt around his intentions if she were to directly ask him. All night he could see her trying to piece together what his aim truly was. It was quite amusing how vexed she was considering he wasn't being very subtle.

He put thought into all his actions. He took her to a place like this, knowing she wouldn't expect it, because he wanted to show her what he could provide. That he was above any of the other men in the village that may want her favor. He gave her an exceptional first date. He wasn't blind either; he knew she really didn't want to be on a date with him. She was intimidated by him, who could really blame her, so she didn't think she had a choice. He smirked to himself because she was right, she really didn't. She was smart enough not to defy him and go along with it, but she didn't see him as a dating prospect. That was fine though, he could be patient if he had to be. He knew she already found him attractive, or she wouldn't have kissed him when she was intoxicated. Sakura always had a bit of weakness for handsome men, if Sasuke was any indication when she was younger. She has much more control over herself as an adult, but it didn't mean her propensity for them wasn't still there. That's why she became flirtatious and forward if she indulged too much - and that only happened to be with good looking men. His aesthetic appeal wasn't the issue, he knew what he looked like. He had to win her over, emotionally, for her to truly be his. She craved romance so he would give it to her.

She really did test his control when she kissed him that night. Her lips were so soft, and they felt perfect against his. It was like she was made for him. It took everything in him to stop, but he knew when he heard her delectable moan, he would have taken her if he didn't pull back right that moment.

She was like a timid rabbit as she walked out with him after dinner. His hand was wrapped around the top of her hip again. Admittedly, it was tempting to dip it a bit lower, but she wouldn't appreciate that right now. Her steps were much faster than usual; he supposed she was in a hurry to end the night with him. What a pity. He let his arm fall from her when she turned to him in front of her door. She was such a vision, truly a mesmerizing woman. From her unique pink hair that fell in soft locks just below her shoulders, to her stunning big green eyes. She had full lips and a small, upturned nose. The source of her insecurities as a teen, her forehead, was definitely much less noticeable as an adult as well. It suited her. Her features were overall incredibly pretty and feminine. This observation always delighted him considering how much of a temper she could have; appearances really could be deceiving.

The dress she wore tonight was perfect, and he could tell she purposely picked something relatively modest, but it was still so seductive. The small hint of cleavage was taunting him. She wasn't overly endowed, but she definitely wasn't lacking. Her breasts fit her frame perfectly and were enough to fill his palms. Her arms were lean, and her skin was wonderously soft, as he knew firsthand. She had a toned stomach, which was to be expected as a ninja, and quite a small waist. That petite waist gave way to full hips and muscular thighs. She really had nice, shapely legs. Soon enough he'd find out what they felt like wrapped around him.

Right now, the side profile of her body was to him, as she seemed to be struggling to say something. His gaze dropped to an area that she was…well-endowed in. The dress wasn't modest enough to hide those pronounced curves. She reinforced his conviction that he was certainly an ass man.

"Kakashi, look, thank you for tonight, really. It was very nice."

"You're welcome." He purposely stepped closer to her, and he watched the panic cloud her face.

"But I'm not interested in continuing this."

"So, no goodnight kiss?" His voice held a mocking edge to it.

"I mean it. I, I'm sorry. I don't see you this way, in the way you want me to."

"Didn't I explain what dating is for, for you to get to know me this way?"

"You're not catching my meaning. I'm sorry, truly, but I will never see you as an option."

She had more nerve than he thought, but he would give her the chance to retract her words.

"Why not explore this for a while, before you jump to any conclusions?"

"I don't want to."

She really thought she could tell him no? She was being incredibly foolish.

"I should make myself clear then. I'm not asking."

She growled and attempted to shove him back, but he didn't move an inch. "Are you so pathetic that you think you can force someone into dating you?"

"Pathetic? Do you mind repeating that?" His voice was dangerous, and his hand grabbed her delicate neck firmly. He wasn't cutting off her air supply, yet, but he easily could if she pushed him.

She realized her mistake because she pleaded, "I'm sorry, please let go!"

His hand didn't leave her throat. "Choose your words carefully when you speak to me Sakura. I won't tolerate your disrespect."

"I understand," she said softly.

"Good." He released her and she scampered back. "We have our team training tomorrow morning of course. We're both free after that, so I think we could go on a second date then, right Sakura?"

He dared her with his eyes to tell him no again. He was giving her the choice to be somewhat willing. But if she refused, they'd do things the hard way. And he had no qualms about that if that's really what she wanted.

"Sure, I guess I can try and see how it goes," she bit out. She was being smart, wonderful.

"I'm glad you said that Sakura. I promise I'll make it worth your while."

He kissed her near her mouth again, and this time he lingered for a few moments. His arms looped around her shoulders to hold her to him as he breathed in her heavenly scent. He was being chaste, for now. He told her he'd give her some time after all.

"I expect that good night kiss tomorrow, Sakura."

She remained silent but he could hear her breathing elevate. She couldn't claim he wasn't clear now, and at least he gave her a warning of what he expected. She should really thank him for being so considerate.


There was no way she could do this. She felt a panic attack coming again and her hand clutched her chest as her heart started racing uncomfortably. She finally got some answers tonight, and things weren't in her favor. He wanted her to a greater extent than a simple sexual encounter. He wasn't moved by her protests to another date, he didn't care. 'I'm not asking,' he said after she told him she wasn't interested in anything with him. What the hell was she going to do?! And so long as he wanted her, she would never be able to see anyone else in the village. He would never allow it. His reaction to Kiba was bad enough; she couldn't even imagine what he'd do if she actually liked another guy.

She tried to calm her breathing and started the rhythmic tapping against her chest. "Come on Sakura, get it together. Deep breaths, slowly…in…. now out.' After a few minutes she got herself relatively under control. She thought over her options. She could continue to date him, pretending to give him a chance. She ruled that out because he clearly wasn't content with simple conversation. He told her he planned to kiss her tomorrow, and she couldn't even imagine beyond that. Telling him to go fuck himself was very tempting, but considering his temperament, also a bad idea. She had no chance against him if he used force. Getting The Hokage involved was also useless because he didn't care. No one here was powerful enough to protect her from him.

She could leave…. It wasn't ideal and it's not something she wanted. She had her whole life here, but maybe getting away for even a couple weeks could help. Perhaps in that time period he would see she's not worth this kind of effort if she didn't want him. And he'd move on to a woman more beautiful, more experienced, and far more willing than she was. But when? She'd have to do it tonight when he least expected something like this from her. She had to get to the Sand Village at the very least, because if he would catch her… she couldn't even imagine.

She had to see Naruto first, so he wouldn't worry about her. It was late but she had to get a move on if her escape plan would work. She slid into the open window of Naruto's apartment, not bothering to wait to be invited in. The less people that saw her tonight the better. He had a mouthful of ramen as he looked at her with surprise. That surprise slowly turned into worry when he saw her pack.

"What's going on Sakura?"

"I won't be at training tomorrow, Naruto." The significance of her words wasn't lost on him.

"You're leaving, aren't you?"

"Yes, for a bit."

"For a mission?" He asked even though she could tell he knew what she was doing.

"No."

"You're leaving now?"

"Yes." The sooner the better

"He'll come after you Sakura." His face was uncharacteristically solemn.

"I'll hopefully be far enough away by the time he realizes I'm gone."

"You better hope so," he said lowly. "I know I shouldn't have to say this, but it needs to be said. Travel as fast as you possibly can tonight. If he catches you, you will never get another chance to leave. He'll make sure of it."

"Okay."

"Be careful Sakura-chan."

"Of course." She hugged him tightly and she could feel him shaking as he held her. As much as she wanted to draw this out, she knew she couldn't afford to waste any more time.

"Goodbye."


She raced through the wilderness with more haste than she'd ever managed before. She couldn't afford to slow down for even a moment. Her lungs burned and her legs ached, but she pushed through it all. If she could make it to the Sand Village at the very least, she'd feel better. It took about 4 days to get there, but if she kept this pace, she could make it in half that time. It was morning now and she knew she'd have to stop at some point tonight to recharge. She wanted to at least be halfway there before she stopped.

This was a dangerous game she was playing, this chilling game of cat and mouse with her unhinged sensei. She hoped he wouldn't bother coming after her at all, but given all his actions so far, that wasn't safe to bet on. She was defying him, and she knew how well he took that. She didn't bother creating any false trails because he was too intelligent, too experienced, to fall for them. It would only waste her invaluable time.

It was almost nearing the time he would realize she didn't show up for training. She wondered if he'd look in the village for her first, or if he would deduce quickly, she fled entirely. He was far too clever, even if he was a bit mad, so he would probably assume this was her plan. Why would she hide out in the village from him, knowing she'd face his wrath. She wasn't stupid either and he knew that.

She put a lot more ground between them than she dared to hope, but she couldn't relax. It wasn't enough yet.


It was quite unlike Sakura to be late. He wondered if he spooked her enough that she was procrastinating facing him. Though, he couldn't help but notice Naruto's composure. He wouldn't look at him and he didn't seem particularly bothered by Sakura's absence. He hadn't asked yet where she was. It was almost like he knew something….

"Naruto." He stepped in front of him, and his imposing stance had Naruto hesitantly glance at his face, before quickly avoiding eye contact.

"Yeah, Kakashi-sensei?"

"Where is she?"

"How should I know? Maybe she slept in?" Kakashi's chakra crackled at his purposely nonchalant response. He could see right through him.

"You have three seconds." Chidori came to life in his hand and Naruto turned pale. He knew it wasn't an empty threat.

"She's gone." He stared at the ground as he said it.

"Where?"

Naruto was silent and it was telling. He wouldn't betray her destination, though it was safe to guess where she was headed.

"Your loyalty to her is admirable." His hand shot through his stomach, and he was kind enough to avoid any vital organs. He watched with detachment as the boy coughed up blood. Sai was quiet as he watched Naruto fall limply to the ground.

"Better get him to the hospital or he'll bleed out." He ordered him calmly.

His mind focused on his gorgeous kunoichi. She was far braver than he anticipated to do something like this. She decided to try and escape him. She was refusing him after he was kind enough to give her the illusion of a choice. Fine, so be it. He couldn't sense her chakra, so she clearly was out of range at this point. He took off at lightning speed in the direction he assumed she was headed. He strangely enough was exhilarated at this chase she was sending him on. Though, for her sake, she'd better hope he didn't catch her. She wouldn't like the outcome, though he certainly would. He wasn't angry, he supposed she thought he would be, but what he felt was decidedly worse for her. It was quite enticing to him, having to track her down. He hadn't been this excited in a long time.

She should have told him she wanted to play. He was more than happy to play. "Let the game begin Sakura."

Thank you so much to all enjoying the story so far! Please continue to review, so I know my story is worth updating faster!

I hope everyone liked their first 'date' lol. Next chapter is incredibly intense and dark and I'm sorry, but I'm really not sorry lol. But I hope you guys are as excited as I am for it! It will be a mix of both Kakashi's and Sakura's POV.