Chapter 8
After we finished the ice cream between us, my father excused himself to go to the comfort room. He told us to behave. I remember having a smile on my face. I could remember the overwhelming happiness that I felt that day. Everything was simply perfect and as the little girl that I was, I couldn't help feeling like a hime. I had an impulse to look at Sasuke, who was sitting beside me. The next thing I knew, my eyes shot open with shock. My hand immediately flew to my lips.
Sasuke had just kissed me! It seemed that he too was taken aback. I think he was only aiming for my cheek. He didn't expect me to look at him so our lips met. His cheeks were as red as mine. But Sasuke being Sasuke, the shock didn't last long. How he hid his embarrassment I still do not know to this day. He smiled at me, a genuine smile that he rarely gives.
"Thank you, Sakura-chan."
"F-for w-what, Sasuke-kun?"
I saw how his eyes warmed. "For being my first and my very best friend. Aniki always tell me to take care of everything I care about, especially my special people. So, no matter what, I will always be Sakura-chan's personal shinobi and I will always protect Sakura-chan." His smile widened. "I don't ever want to say goodbye."
I smiled and hugged him. I then playfully hit his arm. "Baka," It made him laugh. "Whoever said that we are going to say goodbye? Mou, Sasuke-kun? You will always be my bestest friend ever!"
It wasn't long before my father returned and ushered us towards the car. He then strapped me on the right side of the back seat while Sasuke on the left, right behind otou-san's driver's seat. We were on our way towards Sasuke's house where Mikoto-san would be waiting for him.
We haven't gotten far until we reached a stop light. I was playing 'i-spy' with Sasuke at the back. My father had the radio on low, listening to his usual station. The light went green so otou-san started to drive again but then…everything went on fast forward.
My eyes widened with what I saw coming towards the car from the left side. Sasuke saw my look and glanced beside him before he immediately turned towards me and shielded me. But it wasn't enough. The truck crashed against the left side of the car and sent shards flying, instantly killing my father while some flew to my eyes. The last thing I remember seeing was Sasuke's face. The last thing I remember feeling at that moment was crying, only later to find out that I wasn't only crying with tears but crying with my blood. The last thing I remember hearing was Sasuke's voice. Then…everything went black.
I would learn later of what happened to my father, and that Sasuke, my Sasuke-kun, didn't survive his injuries. They were too grave from sitting almost at the exact point where the truck crashed.
XxXxXx
"Uzumaki Naruto," Came Itachi's cool voice. "Please have a seat."
Without another word, Naruto found himself moving to the empty seat in front of the mahogany table. He inwardly gulped but said nothing for once. He was weary on what Itachi's purpose was. He knew well enough that the new CEO was personally looking into every employee's file and laid off whom he thought didn't meet company standards, while he promoted or demoted others.
"There is no need to worry, Uzumaki-san," Itachi started as he leaned back on his chair. He drew his hands together as he looked at Naruto.
Naruto, on the other hand, sighed in relief before he could stop himself but was filled with confusion almost immediately. If he wasn't going to be laid off like Itachi had implied, then what was he doing there?
Before he could voice it out, however, Itachi beat him to it. "I have reviewed your performance and I believe that the position that you were given isn't exactly beneficial anymore for you?"
"Sir?" Naruto finally said.
Itachi looked at Naruto straight in the eyes. "You are but a mere manager in a small department of sales. But I believe you are capable of much more." Naruto was, in all honesty, stunned into silence. "Trained by none other than Goketsu Jiraiya, one of the legendary business specialists, and also your godfather, Uzumaki-san. I believe that you are the right person for heading the PR department."
Naruto took a while for him to register what Itachi was saying. He had been so anxious about the possibility of being fired that it came as a complete shock when he was told otherwise. Itachi waited patiently for Naruto.
"P-PR department? As in the over-all supervisor of the department?" Naruto said it more to himself than to Itachi. The raven-haired male didn't reply as he knew it was only starting to set in the younger male's mind.
Naruto met Itachi's gaze when the initial shock passed. Itachi took it as a sign that the younger male was ready. Itachi passed a file towards Naruto. "You start immediately." He said.
Naruto gathered the file and waited for further instructions.
"First order of business, Uzumaki-san, is the upcoming ball. All the necessary information is within the file I gave you. I believe it will be everything you need to take over the preparations. Other documents regarding other PR responsibilities are in the process of being sent to your new office. You will be occupying a newly furbished one on the 37th floor."
A smile spread over Naruto's face. It was the chance he was aiming for. He knew that this was the break he needed. "Thank you, Uchiha-sama. I will do my best."
"I have full confidence, Uzumaki-san. I suggest you look over the file quickly because two friends of yours will be coming over this afternoon to smooth out some details."
XxXxXx
Once Naruto left the room, Itachi took out his cell phone and scrolled to find a specific number. Once he found it, he pressed call. It only took a few rings before it was picked up from the other line.
"It's about time you called, Itachi." Came a gruff voice.
Itachi looked out from the window of his office. "I have appointed Uzumaki Naruto as my new PR department head. I am sure that he won't be liking it."
"It is enough for him to move. I'll monitor the situation. Sasori and Deidara have infiltrated as planned. They will continue to monitor from the inside."
"Understood. I will be waiting for an update soon. Also, Nara Shikamaru will be waiting for a report. He has proven to be quite the strategist."
Itachi could hear the smirk coming from the other line, "Yeah, I've heard of that Nara kid. He seems to be as much as a prodigy as you."
"Kisame," Itachi suddenly said. The man at the other end could tell the steel and seriousness from the deceptively calm voice of Itachi. "Keep an eye on Yamanaka Ino and especially, Haruno Sakura. This will be ending soon."
Yes. Itachi told himself. It will end soon. He had been having this nagging suspicion that there was something wrong within the company. He had a feeling that there was a mole within that was feeding sensitive information to Orochimaru. He had been having that feeling for awhile now, even before his father had stepped down.
Once he was given the title of CEO, Itachi knew that it was time to weed them out. He asked for every file from all his subordinates. It was a big headache when, during reviewing everything, he learned that there were far more incompetent people that needed to be laid off.
He wasn't sure he could trust within the company yet. As far as he was concerned, everybody was still under investigation. Having promoted Naruto, there wasn't any doubt in his mind that it was a good move. Naruto was, so far, one of his best employees although with the reputation that he didn't trust as of yet. Naruto might accidentally divulge something Itachi didn't want yet.
The cards are about to be played. Like the brilliant chess-master that he was, Itachi was making his move. It didn't hurt that he had recruited some college buddies who found their way into law enforcement, and, Nara Shikamaru, a criminal analyst who had trained abroad but was now back.
XxXxXx
"Okaa-san," Sakura started when she felt Aki nuzzle her leg. She sat at a chair beside her mother's hospital bed. "How are you feeling?"
The older woman smiled as she sat up. Sakura could feel the warmth of her mother's smile directed at her, making her smile. "I f-feel fine, Sakura-chan. It a-always bright-ens my day when I see you." She reached out to her only child.
Sakura sensed this and reached out her hand as well. "Okaa-san, Kakashi-nii will be coming to visit later. He is only fixing some contracts. He is now one of the chefs at Neji and Hinata's new restaurant. You should be so proud of him, Okaa-san. He has gone a long way although," Sakura let out a laugh. "He says that he still has a long way to go to become as skilled as you."
The older woman laughed as well. Kakashi had been the son she never had. She had watched how he brought himself up after the tragic death of his parents. She brought him up like her own son. When Kakashi lost his best friend and lover five years back, it broke her heart watching him suffer. It took a month before Kakashi started to take baby steps to move forward. When he left to travel the world and immerse himself in his craft, she wished him the best and awaited his return.
"I-I'm glad. He d-deserves all the praise I have. I a-am so proud."
"I am honored to have that, Oba-san." Came the distinctively male voice of Kakashi from the door. Both women turned to acknowledge his arrival. Kakashi smiled and went deeper inside the room. He then proceeded to place the bouquet of white orchids beside the bed before hugging and kissing the older woman's cheek. "I missed you, Oba-san. I would have come back as soon as I heard but Sakura convinced me to finish."
"T-that was a good decision, my dear. Now," She patted the spot next to her and continued, "I-I've been told that you are now a chef at t-the new restaurant."
Kakashi smiled and obliged the woman's request. She had been his second mother. He would do anything to make her happy. "Yes. Now that I have signed the necessary contracts, I am executive chef alongside Sakura's other friend, Chouji. We will be going around the markets tomorrow to see what the fresh produce are and well, hopefully get inspired for the menu."
"Inspired for the menu?" Sakura asked.
"Yes, well, we have already a selection of baked goods but we are working on the lunch and dinner options since we have decided to cater dine-in customers."
"Oh," Sakura realized that it was a great opportunity to get her needed inspiration. "'nii-san, do you mind if I tag along? I was hoping to get some sort of inspiration for the glass Neji asked me to do."
"Sure, we leave at 5 am to check the ports for the freshest catch."
"Are you sure you won't be late, 'nii-san?"
Kakashi reached over and ruffled Sakura's hair. "Don't worry too much, Sakura-chan. I doubt Aki would allow the cat that always gets me lost around the apartment."
"That was so lame, 'nii-san."
"Well what can I say," Kakashi mocked shrugged. "That stoic boy friend of yours is rubbing off me. You always did go for the silent, mysterious types."
Sakura blushed on cue. "'Neji is not my boy friend!"
"Neji huh?" Kakashi teased. "I believe I didn't say a name. Is there something you want to tell us, imouto?"
If it were possible, Sakura would have turned a deeper shade of red. "Shut up, 'nii-san."
"But Neji is a fine young man, m-my dear. I-I wouldn't mind him being my future son-in-law!"
Sakura's jar dropped while Kakashi started laughing. "Okaa-san!" The older woman started laughing. It was moments like that which she treasured the most.
A knock suddenly came from the door. A blond haired doctor entered and walked towards the three occupants of the room.
"Good afternoon, Haruno-san." The doctor said.
"G-good afternoon to you too, T-tsunade-sama." Sakura's mother answered while Kakashi stood and walked towards Sakura.
Tsunade stood by the bed and smiled. "I am here to tell you that you are doing fine. I would like to keep you here for another twenty four hours and then if all goes well, you may go home."
"T-that's wonderful."
Tsunade then gazed at Kakashi and Sakura. "If you don't mind you two, I need to conduct a check-up. Please step out of the room for awhile."
Kakashi proceeded to escort Sakura from the room, with Aki just a step away from them. When the door closed, Tsunade looked back at the woman. "I have done what you asked, Haruno-san. I have reviewed your daughter's condition and yes, a corneal transplant is possible. I will have to do a check-up to see her current condition but based on what we have now, an operation is plausible."
Sakura's mother breathed in a sigh of relief. For years she had been silently hoping that a miracle could occur and bring back her daughter's sight. Watching her live in darkness was something that always seemed to break her heart. She was proud of her daughter for reaching the life she had now but as a mother, it was only natural to want only the best. "I-I am relieved. I want her t-to see again."
"I have placed her on the list of candidates." Tsunade then did a quick check-up while she continued, "When a compatible donor is found, then I will speak with her about the procedure and prepare her."
"T-that is all I ask. T-thank you."
Tsunade nodded and called the two back in. She left them to tend to her other patients.
"Okaa-san," Sakura started. "I will be busy for the next couple of months since Uchiha Itachi, Sasuke-kun's older brother, has hired Ino and I for a project. So it will be Kakashi-nii who will be bringing you home."
"Although, Obaa-san," Kakashi stepping forward. "We were hoping to bring you back to the apartment. There is still another guest room and we would like it if you stayed with us. It would make us feel better."
The older woman looked at her daughter and nephew. She could see their worry towards her. She simply nodded. But then asked, "S-Sasuke-kun's older brother? W-what is he like?"
Sakura seemed to reflect for a moment before answering, "Well, at first he is really cold and distant. But only recently do I find the man that Sasuke-kun looks up to."
"Just always look underneath the underneath, Sakura. I still do not fully trust that Uchiha." Kakashi commented as he laid a hand on her shoulder. Sakura could do nothing but nod.
XxXxXx
Naruto sat in front of his new desk. His new office was sleek and bare. He would deal with that soon. In the meantime, he opened the file that Itachi had given him. As he scanned through the pages, Naruto felt himself freeze when he saw Sakura and Ino's names as the event designers. He blinked his cerulean eyes, not really trusting what he was reading.
The paper didn't change or have its details disappear. It was evidence enough for Naruto to realize that he was going to be working with those two for the upcoming ball.
"…two friends of yours will be coming over this afternoon to smooth out some details," Itachi's words rang inside his head. Naruto couldn't help the wide grin that spread across his face.
A knock from his door snapped Naruto from his inner musings. He waited for the door to open and saw his new secretary, Aya peaking through, "Excuse me, Uzumaki-san, but the head of the finance department would like to have an appointment with you this afternoon. Shall I send him your confirmation? Your appointment with Haruno-san and Yamanaka-san is at 4."
Naruto smiled and replied, "Yes, Aya-san, you can tell Masahara-san that I am free at 1. If there is a conflict with the time, please check my schedule for tomorrow because as far as I know I haven't got any pressing appointments."
Aya smiled and nodded. "Would you like some coffee or tea then, Uzumaki-san?"
Naruto gave a hearty laugh. He leaned back against his chair. "It's Naruto, Aya-san. You should have heard by now that I'm one of the most "unprofessional"," he lifted his hands and motioned a quoting motion, "from the rest of the bunch working here." He then proceeded to laughing again. "Ramen would be nice though."
Aya sweat-dropped a bit and laughed at the antics of her new boss. "Alright, Naruto-san, I'll call Masahara-san and then get you some ramen."
Naruto smiled, eyes squinting almost shut and held up a "v" with his fingers. With Ramen now on the way, he rolled up his sleeves and started to go through the file he had about the event and some other stuff that were left in his desk.
XxXxXx
Days started to pass surprisingly fast. Mikoto decided to visit Sakura at her shop. Once she entered, she was immediately greeted by Ino. Mikoto gave the younger woman a warm hug, "How are you, my dear?" She asked.
Ino beamed at the question. She held up her left hand and showed Mikoto her engagement ring. Before she knew it, Mikoto was hugging her again. "Oh! Congratulations!" She broke away and held onto Ino's hands. "Nara Shikamaru is an amazing boy. He will make you happy for the rest of your lives."
Ino's smile brightened. "I haven't finished with the invitations yet but I was hoping that you and Fugaku-san would attend? We are hoping for an intimate ceremony, friends and family only. But you two have always been like family, especially to Sakura. Shika and I have been talking and we would also like to share our day with you."
"Oh we wouldn't miss it for the world." Mikoto's eyes softened and started to water. She fought back her tears of joy. "I'm sure my husband will feel the same."
"Great! We were talking about a spring wedding. Sakura's my maid of honor and well, she offered to be in charge of the decorations." Ino then gave out a small laugh. "She said that this would be one event that she wasn't going to let me design. But you know me, Mikoto-san, I can't help but work on it."
The older woman started to laugh wholeheartedly. "Of course. It's your wedding after all but I am sure that Sakura took most of the burden from you."
Ino nodded. "She took most of the work, the best maid of honor a girl could ask for. She makes sure that I know everything, even the tiniest of details. After having my input, she would work on it. The next thing, I know, she has it done and even did a bit more."
"Sakura has always loved you as a sister so I don't really find that surprising, my dear."
Ino's eyes softened and smiled warmly. "Yes, she is the sister that I never had. Oh!" She then gazed up at the older woman. "Where are my manners? Would you like some tea, Mikoto-san?"
Mikoto laid a reassuring hand on the younger woman's shoulder. "No, thank you, dear. Actually, I was hoping to see Sakura. Is she in?"
"She's at the office, working on the final touches for Neji and Hinata's shop and ordering the materials needed for the ball your son commissioned us for. You may go in. I'm sure she wouldn't mind seeing you now." Ino opened the door that led towards the back. Mikoto nodded and made her way to the back office.
Once she got in front of the door, Mikoto knocked. She then heard Sakura's voice from the other side, allowing her entry. Once she opened the door, Aki's ears perked up and he lifted his head, turning to her general direction in acknowledgement. Mikoto saw Sakura turn towards her. Her eyes softened as she saw Sakura's smile widened a bit. How the younger woman always knew when she was around, Mikoto would never really know.
"Sakura," She called out.
The pink-haired woman stood and faced her fully. "Mikoto-san, what a pleasant surprise." She reached out towards the Uchiha matriarch as she drew near. She was then enveloped into a deep hug. "Is there anything I could do for you?" Sakura asked as she motioned Mikoto to a seat. "Tea?"
"No, thank you, dear. I actually came to see you and talk to you about Itachi-chan."
"Oh! Is there something wrong, Mikoto-san?"
Mikoto paused and answered, "I wanted to make sure that he apologized to you properly after your meeting at the company. He is stubborn and serious and he may come off as cold. If he hurt you, I apologize for that."
Sakura lifted a hand to stop the older woman. She then offered an understanding smile. "Please, Mikoto-san, there is nothing to apologize for. Although, I still don't know Itachi all that well, I know that he is a good man. I have always known that based on how Sasuke always had looked up to him. He apologized and has helped me a lot since the time at the office. I believe he cooked for you a few nights ago."
"We had to cancel that dinner. There was an emergency at the office that Itachi had to take care of."
"I'm sorry to hear that. Itachi-san was prepared for that dinner. I believe he was enthusiastic to be cooking something he knew you and Fugaku-san would love."
Mikoto suddenly had a knowing glint in her eyes. "I see. Well there is always next time. But…I am relieved that all is well between the two of you. You didn't perhaps teach him a recipe, did you, my dear? He was never really that enthusiastic to cook and he let you call him by his given name."
Sakura couldn't help but blush. She knew that the raven-haired woman was teasing her. Her tone was telling her that Mikoto knew something that she didn't. "Y-yes, Itachi asked me to stop calling him Uchiha-san. He also asked me the recipe for the fish you loved when he brought me to his penthouse after we did some grocery."
Mikoto's eyes lit up. They did grocery together? He even brought her home. She is by far the best he has brought home. I approve! "Groceries? Oh, my dear, I didn't know you two have been that close already as to do domestic chores together."
If it were possible, Sakura turned a shade darker. "Um, it's not what you are thinking, Mikoto-san. I literally bumped into him at the grocery store. He got angry at the store clerk who guided me around and took it upon himself to help him. In exchange, I offered to help him with his. He offered lunch but I didn't want to impose so we came to the agreement that I would cook lunch for him while he made your dango recipe for dessert. He then brought me home. There really is nothing to it, Mikoto-san."
Mikoto waved it off. She knew there was something more and she was happy to let it all play out on its own. "It's alright, dear. I am just happy that you are finally friends with my other son. I must say it had been a long time coming."
Sakura simply smiled as Aki walked up to her. She patted his head while he got comfortable by her feet. "My dear," came Mikoto's voice. Sakura looked up at the woman again, who seemed to have stood up. "I am planning to go to his office now and ask him to have lunch with me. Would you like to come?"
Sakura always had a hard time saying no to the woman who was like a second mother to her. She nodded her head and walked over to her desk and got the receipts and the files she was going to bring there that afternoon. "Let me just gather all the things the finance department will need. I know that they would want us to be transparent with all expenses."
XxXxXx
To say that Itachi was surprised that his mother had come for lunch was an understatement. Mikoto always did that even when his father was still the CEO. What made that day different was a certain pink-haired young woman that his mother brought along with her. Itachi had been immersed in paperwork when his mother had knocked. He looked up and offered her a proper welcome. He stood but froze slightly when he realized that Mikoto was holding onto the arm of Sakura, leading her inside.
"Okaa-san, Sakura, this certainly is a-"
"I know, Itachi-chan. I was the one who asked Sakura to come along. I was also hoping if you'd join us for lunch." Mikoto interrupted.
Itachi stood straighter and shifted his gaze to Sakura, who was offering him an apologetic smile. He took his coat from the back of his chair and started to walk over to them. "Of course. I will drive."
"Oh! Before I forget, here are the latest receipts and the complete plan. Masahara-san requests for these but as previously agreed, I am giving it to you first."
Itachi took the file and laid it on his desk. "Thank you," He then wore his coat as he walked towards the door to hold it open, "Now ladies, where would you like to have lunch?"
XxXxXx
After arriving at the Italian restaurant that Mikoto always brought Sakura to, Mikoto was called from behind. They turned and saw some of her friends. Things happened so fast that neither Sakura nor Itachi had any chance to voice anything before Mikoto left them, saying that she was going to spend time with her friends, not to wait for her, she could find her way home, and for Itachi to be a gentleman.
Itachi and Sakura sighed as the older women left for another restaurant from the looks of it. "It's okay, Itachi. We don't have to eat here if you need to get back at the office right away."
"Nonsense," Itachi replied as he placed a hand on the small of her back to lead her to their table. He followed the maitre 'd as she led them. "We are already here and I am sure that I am not the only one hungry. My mother can be exasperating. I know you have worked up an appetite just by being around her."
Sakura blinked. Did Itachi just make a joke? She giggled and nodded. Itachi smirked before his face returned to his usual stoic expression. He assisted her to a seat before sitting himself in front of her.
"Have you been here before, Sakura?"
"Yes,"
"So what do you recommend?" Itachi said, eyes skimming through the menu.
Sakura's eyebrow rose and couldn't help the words that flowed from her mouth, "Mikoto-san is your mother. Are you seriously telling me that she has never brought you here?"
Itachi smirked. He closed his menu and placed it down. He couldn't help but feel drawn to her. She wasn't like the other women he had met where they were eager to please him. Sakura was the only one he knew that would reply that way towards him. "Touche."
Before he could say more, the waitress approached them with a smile and said, "Good afternoon, Uchiha-san, Sakura-san. I presume that you both are taking the usual?"
Itachi nodded while Sakura answered, "Yes, thank you, Stella-san."
The blonde woman with a thick Italian accent said before walking away, "Okay. I'll be back with your orders as soon as they are ready."
Sakura and Itachi waited for Stella to be beyond ear shot. Itachi had been observing Sakura. Before he could say anything though, she beat him to it, "Alright, I know that you have some things you want to ask. I'd be glad to answer your questions, Itachi-san."
Itachi was slightly taken aback. It intrigued him how Sakura could know what he was thinking without him saying anything. "Tell me. How do you find Uzumaki Naruto as the new head of the PR department?"
Sakura couldn't help but lift an eyebrow. "My opinion on the matter is relevant because?"
"You are working directly with him these days, are you not? Certainly you know that an evaluation from yourself is indeed relevant."
Sakura sighed. "And how do you know that I won't just give you a biased answer considering that he is one of my closest friends?"
"Are you telling me that you are not professional enough to give a straight answer?"
She sighed again before resting both her hands on the table. She calmly intertwined her fingers and looked up at Itachi. "I am not in question here but I find your question looking deeper. To answer your original question, I have worked with Naruto for years, ever since we were children so I hardly take it as a surprise that we work well together. In that regard alone, I can say that working with him is a pleasure because we already know how each of us works and we don't have to say much, we just do. As for him being your PR head, well, I believe that it is still too early to tell. I have met Jiraiya-san and have seen how he trained Naruto but in lieu of him being the head, I believe that you should be waiting a bit more to see. He might just surprise you. He is Naruto after all."
Itachi couldn't help the smirk that crossed his face for a split second.
XxXxXx
Sayaka was making her way to Itachi's office. A few folders were in her hands. They weren't really pressing documents but they were enough to ensure her passage to meet up and talk to her handsome superior. She wasn't going to pass on the opportunity to flirt with him.
When she learned that she was passed up for the PR department head position, Sayaka would have to admit that she was peeved. Compared to Uzumaki Naruto, she knew that she was more resourceful, tactful, better qualified, and undoubtedly perfect for the position.
To add a thorn at her side, she learned that Haruno Sakura and Yamanaka Ino had been hired to take care of the anticipated celebration. The blind, pink-haired woman had somehow convinced her boss that she and her partner were going to deliver and design fitting for the event.
Sayaka's eyes narrowed when that thought crossed her mind. She knew that virtually it was almost impossible to smear any work of the pink-haired bitch with Naruto on the helm of the PR department. Her abhorrence for the blind freak seem to escalate with the rumors running around the company that their most sought of bachelor was spending time with the wench, even during his free time. It didn't help any that it seemed that the Uchiha family heads, Itachi's parents, had no problem whatsoever with her.
It made Sayaka's skin crawl with envy and jealousy. Her irritation would increase whenever she would find herself thinking that the green-eyed witch was using her handicap to gather sympathy from those around her. It made Sayaka want to put Sakura in her place more.
Sayaka walked the hallway towards Itachi's office, determined to have an upper hand. There was no way she would lose her chance to marry Uchiha Itachi to someone who wasn't even worthy to be in the same room as her.
As she neared the oak doors, Itachi's elderly secretary halted her phone conversation when she noticed Sayaka approaching. "Uchiha-sama isn't at him office at the moment, Tanaka-san. Is there anything I can help you with?"
Sayaka raised an eyebrow and walked towards the secretary's table. "Where is he, Umai-san? I need to run through some documents with him. Uzumaki-san said he needs it by this afternoon." She lied smoothly.
"He is out to lunch at the moment. He didn't specify what time he will be back. He doesn't have a meeting until 2:30 so I am not sure what time he will be back."
"Out to lunch? Uchiha-sama doesn't usually go out to lunch." Sayaka pointed out.
"Oh! Uchiha-sama's mother came by earlier and I suppose Uchiha-sama took her and Haruno-san to lunch."
"Haruno-san?" Sayaka's eyes narrowed. She started seeing green and was silently seething.
"Yes. Haruno Sakura-san. She was accompanying Lady Mikoto earlier."
Sayaka forced herself to take a breath. "Well," She then pretended to go through the files that were in her hands. "I suppose I'll just leave these at Uchiha-sama's desk. Please call me as soon as he is in so that I could come and answer questions that he may have?"
The old woman personally didn't like the younger woman standing in front of her but she knew to hold her tongue. "That is alright, Tanaka-san. You can leave them with-"
"I insist, Umai-san. You are still talking with someone and it wouldn't trouble me much. I will simply leave them at his table."
Against her better judgment, the elderly woman gave a nod of approval before returning to the call at her hand. Sayaka, without preamble, opened the oak door to Itachi's office and proceeded towards the desk.
She was only supposed to set the folders down but as she was about to, Sayaka noticed a folder that seemed to have been left there in a hurry. She figured that it was something Itachi had left there in a hurry before he escorted his mother and Sakura out to lunch. Curiosity got the better of her. She lifted the cover and read through the first few pages, before skimming through the entire content. The wheels in her head started to turn. Without another thought, Sayaka grabbed the folder and left the rest.
On her way back to her office, she said, "I'll bring this folder back later. I saw some mistakes."
"That's fine, Tanaka-san."
As Sayaka walked, she couldn't help the grin that spread through her lips.
XxXxXx
"I can remember every detail from that day." Sakura paused as she recalled the last day she was with Sasuke. She closed her eyes as she saw through her mind's eye. Itachi remained silent, waiting for Sakura to continue her tale of that day. They were seated at a bench, near the pond, at the park. "I can remember exactly what happened at school, the smells, the colors…most of all…I remember Sasuke-kun. In not so many words, he told me that I was his best friend that day. I didn't get the chance to. He had said goodbye. It never crossed my mind before the accident that it was his final goodbye."
A few tears escaped her closed lids. Itachi felt his heart clench a bit. He wasn't sure what to say or what to do. He opted to do nothing as he watched Sakura took a calming breath. "Unlike what the doctors, the police, or other people believe, it wasn't the lights from the incoming car that were the last things I ever saw. It was Sasuke-kun. His face. His eyes. Those were the last things I ever saw before waking in this darkness. Now that I'm older and have gone through the accident over and over again in my head, I finally figured out what it was I saw in his eyes. There was fear but more importantly, I saw a sense of peace and acceptance. I could have sworn that I even saw relief. I'd like to believe that more than the fear. I always viewed him as a vibrant person with so much strength that, although it might sound cliché, overflowed and protected me."
Sakura was silent for awhile. Itachi remained closed-lipped as well. He still wasn't sure how to reply to what she was telling him. It made him think about his brother. Her next words brought him back to reality, "Sasuke-kun kept his promise. He was, and always will be, my personal shinobi." A gentle, warm, beautiful smile graced her lips that captivated Itachi. "I still feel him near, especially when I find myself in a low mood, or when I find this sort of peace, I feel him. For that alone, I know that he is happy where is and would want me to be as well. I vowed when I started to find my way again, I vowed in front of his grave that I will live life to the fullest, not only for me but for him as well. I would honor his memory and his sacrifice for me that day by living. I know there will come a time that I will see him again but until then, I vowed to live so that when that time comes, I would be able to face him with my head held high."
Itachi met her unseeing eyes. He saw through the opaque green that her eyes were reduced to. He saw this depth that was simply took his breath away. Feelings and warmth started to run through his heart. At that moment, Itachi knew that Sasuke couldn't have had a better best friend than her. The young woman beside him was simply a rare find that Itachi couldn't help but feel proud that his brother found her.
He could see the love and loyalty the young woman had. Sasuke was lucky to have had her during his short stay on earth. For the first time in years, Itachi actually felt his brother nearby. He felt close to Sasuke again. It stirred his long forgotten emotions. He briefly wondered if he would ever be as lucky as Sasuke.
"You might think that I am overstepping my boundaries, Itachi, but I believe you should hear this." Sakura said that made Itachi look at her again, "He would want you to find your happiness too. In a way, you haven't fully grieved. I know you loved your brother very much, and he loved you just as much." She offered him a playful smile, "He might kill me if he hears me saying this but he worshipped the ground you walk on. He always had stories about you, always the amazing aniki. I might not fully understand how the accident devastated you but I'm sure Sasuke-kun would want you to live life beyond the coolness that you project with your work. Maybe it's time to start opening up to color, Itachi-san. Living in the darkness is very frightening and cold."
Itachi pondered on her words. He knew that Sakura wasn't expecting a reply from him. It made him wonder how she could say some frightfully accurate things. He allowed himself to push it aside and let the silence envelop them in comfort.
It took a moment for the silence to be chased away by Itachi. "What do you wish for, Sakura? If you could see again, what do you wish for?"
Sakura tilted her head to the side as she considered his question. It was an almost endearing action. A smile slowly escaped her lips. "I wish for a lot of things, Itachi, a lot and it might even start to sound selfish."
"After everything you've been through and what you have given those around you now, you are more than entitled to be selfish, Sakura." He watched her reaction carefully.
She gave him a nod and closed her eyes. "I would like to run without a care in the world, not worrying if I am about to hit something or even trip. I want to feel like I am flying. I would like to learn how to ride a bike since I never learned. I would like to be able to swim. I was never allowed to since the accident. I want to experience what it is like to drive a car. I want to travel the world and see things I've never seen before, experience another culture through their eyes and not through how others have explained it to me."
"I wish for a lot of things, I tell you. But perhaps my greatest wish if I had my eyes again, I would love to see the sun rise again." A tear started to trail from her eyes. She immediately tried to wipe it away but more followed. "I miss seeing and actually feeling the colors of life. I have always loved them that I couldn't help but crave them. I even miss stargazing. I know it is selfish of me to want more than what I have since I am already so blessed in my life, but I truly can't help the longing for those simple things that a lot of people take for granted. I used to take it for granted but at least my consolation is that I have a memory of them than nothing at all."
Itachi's eyes softened. Without him realizing, he had reached over and gently took Sakura's hands in his own. "You see a lot of things so clearly, Sakura. Even without your eyes, you have seen a lot. I am sure one day you will have what you wish for. Have the doctors told you that you have a chance to see again?"
Sakura let out a sigh and nodded. "The last time I visited my mother. Tsunade-sama mentioned that it is a possibility but of course, there is no absolute certainty. Also, I don't think I could afford such an operation with everything that is happening right now."
"I am certain that you will see again." Itachi unconsciously tightened his grip on her hands. What compelled him to say that to her, he wasn't entirely sure. All he knew was that it was the right thing to say to her. He truly believed in it so he saw no reason for her not to believe in it too.
He felt it to be weird that Sakura made him feel things, stirred his intentionally forgotten feelings from long ago, without even trying. She simply was a genuine person, a rare type he had never encountered before. Her purity and integrity drew him to her character. It made, in a sense, him want to protect her. He couldn't help but wonder if it were the same things that drew his brother all those years ago.
XxXxXx
"I'll be on my way then," Hinata said as she pushed her arm through her jacket. Chouji was already waiting for her by the front door of their soon-to-open bakery.
Neji and Kakashi both gave a nod as they shifted their attention back to the finalized menu. They would be going through the expected expenditure for the opening, while Hinata and Chouji were going to personally visit all the people who were going to start supplying them with ingredients. All details had to be ironed out with only a week left.
It was a quiet atmosphere for a while, with only the sound of flipping papers and the occasion friction of a moving pen. It was so until Kakashi decided to have a long overdue man-to-man talk with Neji.
"You are in love with Sakura, aren't you?"
Neji was more than taken aback with the older man's sudden, blunt statement. He dropped the pen he was holding and if he weren't too good at controlling his reactions, Kakashi would have seen his dropped jaw. Neji quickly recovered from the shock as his eyes returned to normal.
"W-what-"
Even before Neji was able to finish what he was saying, Kakashi held up a hand. "Don't even try to deny it, Hyuuga." There was a smirk on his face but Neji could see the sharpness in the man's eyes. "Honestly? I don't mind it since it is you. But be warned, if you do anything to hurt her, I won't care that you are my boss."
Neji was speechless. He went through shock, disbelief, anxiety and acceptance all in the span of a few seconds. "I have no intention of hurting her. You, of all people, would agree with me when I say that she is a very special woman."
Kakashi didn't speak immediately. He carefully scrutinized the young man in front of him, trying to find any dishonesty. When he found none, he gave him an eye-crinkling smile and replied, "Yes, she is. Now that that is cleared up, I suggest that you make your intentions known to her. Sakura can be really keen and intelligent but pretty dense. Besides, it wouldn't do well if there is another man vying for her affections."
Neji fought the urge to twitch in annoyance. He wasn't exactly sure what bothered him more, the fact that there might be another man who could take Sakura away from him, or, having a conversation with Kakashi, who was conveniently Sakura's cousin and 'big brother' figure.
XxXxXx
"Welcome to-Oh!" Ino said as she looked up when she heard the front door open. "Hey, Naruto. What's up?"
"Hey, Ino. I was hoping to get the file for the project, you know all the reports and financial stuff before the meeting later." Naruto replied as walked over to where the other blond was. He glanced to Sakura's workplace and immediately asked, "Sakura's not here?"
"If you would just let me answer instead of going on and on, you'll probably learn that no, Sakura isn't here. Mikoto-san dropped by earlier. They headed to get Itachi at your office. She brought the file with her."
"Oh! That's great then!" Naruto answered with a huge smile. "Hey, congrats!" He then proceeded to hug Ino. "Shikamaru made me one of his groomsmen."
Ino sat. "Yeah, I know. Shika told me. Chouji made best man and as I told him, no strippers for the bachelor party, or I'll skin all of you alive. If I even feel a little bit sadistic, I'll cut off your manhood and feed them at the zoo." She had said it with a sickly sweet smile.
Naruto cringed a bit, and discretely adjusted his family jewels. "Right. No strippers. Check."
"Oh, hey," The immediate change in Naruto's demeanor was always such an amusing thing to watch. "Hinata-chan invited me to be her date at the opening. You think if I gave her a bouquet in front of Neji, it might stop him from killing me?"
Ino couldn't help the giggles that erupted from her. She laid a hand on Naruto's shoulder. He was looking at her like a child waiting for news about candy. "Either way, Naruto, I think Neji is still going to kill you." She saw Naruto's spirits dampen a bit. "Why is he screaming for your blood anyway? The only thing I could think of is if you were hurting her. Are you hurting her? I swear Uzumaki if you even-"
Naruto held his hands up in surrender and immediately halted Ino's tirade. "Hinata-chan is the best, sweetest girl I've ever met, next to you and Sakura-chan of course," Naruto swung an arm around Ino's shoulder. "I would never dream of hurting her."
Ino took Naruto's hand and took off his arm. "As much as I like that, flattery isn't going to get you anywhere. Anyway, Neji hasn't killed you yet so just be," she then pinched his both cheeks. "The lovable guy courting Hinata" Naruto smiled in response.
XxXxXx
"Yes," Sayaka answered the man on the phone. "Yes. So will you be able to do the changes? I'm sorry that it came last minute. It was only decided now."
"That is alright, ma'am. We have computed the expenses and we were able to amount it the same, although we will supply a little differently. The number of fabrics will be shortened by half."
"That is fine. We are looking for not over-doing it so that is fine. Thank you."
"The fabrics are currently being prepared and will be delivered tomorrow morning."
"Thank you." Sayaka ended the call and scanned the pages on the document she had on her computer. A smirk graced her lips before hitting the print button.
She had gone through the entire file that had the plans and breakdown of expenses for the winter ball. Everything was there, including Sakura's signature at the last page.
Sayaka took out the necessary pages that, to her, meant nothing at all and attached the last page with the signature to the ones she had finished printing. After securing the file, her smile brightened and headed off to Itachi's office. For the first time in a long time, she felt light because she was going to finally get the pink-haired bitch out of the picture. Sayaka placed the file exactly where she found it. All she had to do now was wait and watch. She knew that it was going to be a very entertaining event. She could hardly wait.
XxXxXx
After having escorted Sakura to Naruto's office, Itachi headed towards his office to catch up with the files that were certainly left at his desk. As he passed his secretary, he left word not to disturb him unless it was really important.
He sat back on his chair, unconsciously closing his eyes. It had been an interesting afternoon. It was different from what he usually had. In a way, it was a novel experience.
To finally understand the one who had touched his brother's life all those years ago, the girl that his brother gave his life to protect, Itachi could honestly say that he understood the sacrifice. Learning about his brother through her eyes brought the little boy he used to carry on his shoulders, the boy who would always run to the door to welcome him when he arrives, the boy who would knock on his door whenever he had a nightmare. Itachi had his baby brother back.
Itachi felt this piercing pain. It made the loss he so long denied overwhelm him. Sakura was right. Itachi hadn't allowed himself to grieve. Although he knew that he couldn't push it off like before, Itachi knew that he shouldn't let it interfere with work.
Taking a deep breath, Itachi sat up straight and took out the first folder that was left on his table. His cool, emotionless façade was back. Opening the file, he noticed it was for the ball, meaning it was the one that Sakura had given him earlier. As he read through the contents, he couldn't help but narrow his eyes.
"Umai-san, please get Uzumaki-san, Tanaka-san, Haruno-san and Masahara-san in here now."
Something was wrong. Reading through the file, there was no denying it. There was something really wrong.
Sayaka and Masahara arrived first. Not long after, Naruto entered with Sakura on his arm. Naruto guided her towards a seat as silence filled the room.
Itachi said nothing as he handed the file over to Masahara. The older man got the silent message to read it. It wasn't long before his eyebrows shot up in surprise. He couldn't help the frown that crossed his features.
"These are the figures agreed upon. But based on these papers, it will not be enough to cover the costs for the design of the entire ball." Masahara commented.
Sakura tilted her head to the side in confusion. The frown on her brow was obvious. From what she knew and what she and Ino had re-checked that morning, everything was fine and everything was accounted for. Everything was verified and set. No more expense was needed since it was enough.
Naruto took the file and ran through it. Sayaka was looking over his shoulder a bit to read the contents. She kept her face carefully blank. Naruto said nothing as the ramifications of the document settled in. He felt Sakura tug on his arm at his side.
"Sakura, this isn't what we talked about." Naruto finally said.
Sakura's brows furrowed some more. "What are you talking about? Ino and I checked them several times, the latest was this morning before it was printed and brought here."
"But Sakura," Naruto insisted. "This isn't really what we talked about. The list of fabrics, the colors, the costs aren't the same. The final figures are but it is not even enough to cover the entire expense of the ball. Everything that is listed here, all the plans and details aren't what we have worked on before."
"I still do not understand. I ran it through my computer. I checked every detail. Ino re-read everything. It is what we agreed on. We were even able to get a discount so we added some decorations, free of charge."
"Listen here you blind, ignorant, pink-haired freak," Sayaka said as she crossed her arms and glared at Sakura. "We do not have time for this. It is clear that you really are incapable of doing the job. We are not playing games here and you have the guts to sabotage one of the main events of this company."
"I did no such-"
"Enough." Itachi cut Sakura off. "Uzamaki-san, Tanaka-san, cancel the event. Tell the press and the guests that it is my order and that I extend my utmost apologies. Masahara-san, please call all the establishments involved to cancel all our orders. Go. I want to talk to Haruno-san alone."
Itachi waited for the door to close before he faced Sakura. He took a deep breath and stood from his chair and walked to the seat in front of Sakura.
"Why?"
That one word, it was only one word but Sakura understood Itachi's unspoken question, How could you do this?
Honestly, it hurt Sakura that Itachi had so little fate in her. For him to think of her capable of fraud, of tricking them, it hurt Sakura like the words she would hear when she had first become blind. It made her feel inadequate. It made her feel like the scared little girl she was. It made her feel like the pitiful girl before Sasuke.
She took a shaky breath. She closed her eyes. She could feel Itachi's gaze on her. It took all her strength to keep from tearing up or from having her voice shake. "If you are asking for something to which you already have an answer for, no matter what I tell you it would not matter."
Itachi's eyes narrowed. "You personally handed me the file before we left for lunch. It was here the entire time. How can you explain that? It changed by itself?"
Sakura bit her lip in frustration. She wanted to scream for him to believe her but she knew that he wasn't going to. "I will not waste my time convincing the convinced. Since you cancelled the business deal already, there is no need for us to talk further. I will be the one to notify Ino of the change. Sorry to have caused trouble and have wasted your time."
Without another word, Sakura stood and bowed deep towards Itachi and slowly made her way towards the door.
Itachi watched her go. He didn't even try to stop her. He had seen the hurt and betrayal cross her features for a moment before it turned blank. He didn't like that expression on her. It had to happen though. He wasn't one to tolerate such things, even if it involved Sakura. He didn't like being played. It was unfortunate the dices fell that way. It had to be done. He kept telling himself that to numb this unfamiliar feeling brewing inside of him.
XxXxXx
Naruto had volunteered to bring her back to the store but Sakura put her foot down and refused. She loved Naruto like a brother but she didn't want to be with him at the moment. She felt as if she had failed him in a way. Also, with how things turned out, she wanted to be alone to think things over.
It all felt like a giant rollercoaster. Everything was alright up until lunch. She was even learning more about that man that Sasuke had spent his life idolizing. He was starting to understand the man behind the suit, the cool and professional façade. Suddenly, it was as it everything went wrong all at the same time.
The blatant distrust that was shown in that office felt suffocating. To think that Itachi had thought that, enough for him to call off, it made her feel that the delicate friendship that they were forging was nothing. It meant nothing.
Sakura could feel the hurt sting inside her chest. It was one of those times when she desperately wanted Sasuke by her side. She wanted to feel like it was going to be alright.
As she walked down the sidewalk with her walking cane, Sakura wasn't honestly concentrating on what was happening around her. She was too much distracted by what happened at Itachi's office. And since Aki wasn't with her, she had to brave the busy sidewalk on her own, getting pushed and shoved by random people.
One thing led to the other, the next thing Sakura felt happening was she was falling towards her left, towards the street. She had lost her balance.
She then thought she heard Neji call out to her, "Sakura!"
XxXxXx
"Sakura!"
Neji had been walking with Kakashi. They just came from the shop and were headed to lunch. They were talking about the upcoming opening of the store.
Suddenly, Neji stopped as he saw Sakura fall towards the street. His heart stopped when he noticed that there was a car heading her way. He didn't even notice what Kakashi was saying or doing, nor was he aware that his feet were taking him towards her without any second thought.
Before Sakura even hit the road, Neji found himself running towards her. With Aki not anywhere with her, Neji knew that Sakura was in danger. His heart was racing. Nothing else mattered or even registered in his brain. All knew was that he had to get to Sakura before she got into more danger. His legs were moving without much thought, frantic to get to her side.
On impulse, Neji pulled Sakura up and pushed her back to the side walk. The next thing he knew, he crashed at his side and darkness started to cloud his vision.
(to be continued...)
