Helloooo everyone! I'm super happy today to tell you that this is a SPECIAL CHAPTER!! I've let go of my usual 4k word limit on this one and wrote as much as I liked! So sit back with your snacks maybe as you begin because this one's going to be super lengthy and ENTIRELY SASUSAKU CENTRIC!! Happy reading y'all! (I hope this makes up for Sasuke being a jerk in the last chapter too :p)
Chapter 23- First Date
Even the sunny morning couldn't brighten Sasuke's day. He couldn't sleep all night, thinking what to do and after long hours he finally managed to come up with something, now only hoping that things will go right. However, he realised that the task was going to be far harder than he thought when he began panicking at the very first step of carrying out his plan- facing his wife. Nonetheless, he entered the room and his heart immediately softened. He watched the sleeping figure of his wife, looking more angelic than ever. She looked indescribably innocent and cute when she slept. But regardless of her angelic features, the redness and puffiness on her face didn't go unnoticed by Sasuke. Realisation hit him that even she didn't get sleep at night when he saw the damp pillows. She cried to sleep after staying up all night.. he decided to not wake her up and head to the closet to get ready instead, he'll talk to her once she's up, she needed to rest. However, as soon as he walked out of the closet after a couple of minutes, he saw his wife sitting at the edge of the bed. She looked up at him noticing his presence, but there wasn't any glow on her face any longer, she didn't have her usual cheerful expression, rather, she looked glum. She didn't speak, nor she reacted seeing his presence, she simply shifted her gaze away from him and got up, now heading towards the closet.
Sasuke never felt this anxious in his life. His heart started racing faster the moment he saw her awake, and when he didn't get to hear her 'Sasuke-kun' or see her radiant smile as usual, his feeling of guilt increased tenfold. As much anxious Sasuke was, he couldn't bear seeing her hurt. After seeing her pained expression, he didn't even want to be forgiven, he just wanted that smile back, even if she asked him to leave for that. He'd do anything to bring back her graceful self.
"Sakura." He called her after watching her walk past him, which made her stop instantly as well as managed to cause her heart to pound against her chest. Both of them turned to face each other, and Sasuke couldn't help but admire the pretty face of his wife, which now lost its usual radiance and subsequently hurt his heart. Sakura looked at him with no emotion whatsoever other than the sadness she was carrying for a while now, she wasn't really mad at him, but she was certainly hurt and barely had the energy to even express her emotions, at this point she was feeling numb.
"Yes?" She quietly asked looking up at him. Her voice lacked the excitement she normally had while responding to him. Sasuke sighed softly, he wondered if whatever he was planning were even enough to make up for his actions, he never saw her this sorrowful. Nonetheless, he had to give it a try, and he decided he'd do anything at all if she asked for it.
"We'll have to go out tonight. I have to.. run some errands now so I'll just pick you up at 6." He mentally slapped himself, he normally never goes out on Sundays unless there are scheduled meetings later in the day or evening. If he wasn't going to tell her now she'll spend the day thinking he was with.. I'm messing things up already. If this continued Sakura might not even want to go out with him.
Sakura was now perplexed besides being devastated. Where does he want to take her now?
"Why?" She softly asked her husband, her tone now more confused than sad. Sasuke sighed, he really wanted to tell her everything, perhaps start talking about everything right here right now, but he wanted things to go right this time, and make it special for her... hopefully.
"You'll see. Just do what I said. It's a.. request." He said in a composed manner despite being internally nervous and left the room quickly so that he wouldn't have to answer any more of her questions for the time being. She wouldn't say no to this, would she? Sasuke did think of a way to ensure Sakura would be there, but still, he couldn't help but feel nervous. I have a lot more to prepare for the day. Sasuke thought as he left the Uchiha Residence.
Sometimes later..
Sasuke wasn't very experienced when it came to shopping for women, but he reminded himself everytime that he'd do anything to fix things with his wife and he had to put extra attention on this one. That's why he chose a place from where he could get some help- Kushina's boutique.
"Oba-san?" Sasuke called out and her joyous self turned around to face him.
"Oh, welcome Sasuke! You're right on time. Follow me." Sasuke obliged as Kushina led the way. "I don't really want to interrogate about what happened.. but your arrival to buy a dress is that one thing I never expected." Kushina said mischievously as they walked, with a wide grin on her face. Sasuke felt blood rush to his cheeks.
"Oba-san, I.." Sasuke felt his blush deepen, what would he even say to her?
"Hey! It's alright! I was just teasing. I'm happy to see that marriage is changing you in all positive ways despite the sudden arrangement. She's so lucky to have you!" Kushina said excitedly. If only she knew how he's far more fortunate than Sakura is.. Sasuke thought. "Come on, I've gathered my best collection of Sakura's size the moment you called me, I'm sure she'll love whatever you pick from here." Kushina added showing the rack of dresses she gathered as per Sasuke's request. All of them were of different designs and colours, which caused Sasuke to become anxious at first about whether Sakura would like his choices or not, which was soon gone as Kushina encouraged him to go for what he likes and gave him the assurance that Sakura will be equally pleased with any of his choice. After few minutes of going through all of the dresses, Sasuke decided on a knee length, black sparkly one. It was entirely black with glitters adorning it, and the fabric seemed quite stiff to keep the dress from flowing or crumpling.
"Ah, this would be perfect! I made the straps to perfectly fit along the neck and thick fabric to maintain the elegance and stability. People always love my backless neck strapped dresses' collections and this one is even one of my favourite among them, amazing choice Sasuke!" Kushina beamed with delight as she spoke.
Sasuke gave a slight smile. "Thank you for the help, oba-san."
"Hey, you don't have to thank me for this, I'd help you anytime just the way I would when it comes to Naruto. Let me pack this dress in the prettiest wrapper we got, and that's on me!" She said happily as she proceeded to pack the item at the counter.
"Oba-san.. I'd request that you don't say this to someone, not even Naruto. I don't want anyone to interrupt or question me.. at least today." Sasuke hesitantly said. He knew his friends would question or even tease him to death if they got to know about what he was doing. Not like he'd mind them questioning him, but he didn't want any sort of interruption between sakura and him today, he could tell them everything the day after.
"I understand what you mean. Don't worry dear, your secret is safe with me, Goodluck." Kushina winked playfully. Sasuke only gave a small smile in return. They proceeded to choose an outfit for himself shortly after Kushina's numerous requests, and in the end she ended up gifting him a grey suit to wear with a black shirt to match Sakura's dress. Relief washed over him upon being done with the job, now he only needed to wait for evening to arrive and hope that she'll show up at least after receiving the dress..
Uchiha Residence
Sakura's day wasn't going very much better than the day before. She wasn't crying any longer but she felt numb and tired. Her friends occasionally called her to ask how she was doing, specially after what happened with Karin at the party yesterday, but she brushed it off, saying she needed time and rest. She had no will to talk to any of them now, specially when she had no energy to handle their possible reactions after knowing the truth. Besides, ever since Sasuke asked her to get ready in the evening, she couldn't stop thinking about it. Curiosity was getting the best of her, and multiple possibilities kept running through her mind. Did he want to.. talk about divorce? Did he decide to stay with Karin for good? She closed her eyes in defeat, with no idea whatsoever about why and where he exactly wants to take her. She was only thinking about all these when there was a knock on her door, bringing her out of the trance.
"Sakura-sama, someone left a package for you at the main gate." Sakura raised her head and opened her eyes at the statement. Package? She opened the door of her room to find Hotaru with a box in her hand. "Who sent this?"
"The person didn't say that, Sakura-sama. He just said this was to be delivered to you." Sakura's brows furrowed in confusion, who'd send her something without even informing?
"Alright.. thank you Hotaru." Sakura took the parcel, closing the door again and placed the box on the bed. It looked beautiful from the outside, elegantly decorated with a purple ribbon on a matte white box. Not being able to figure out who could've sent this, she opened the box to reveal another layer of paper covering the item.. and a note. She chose to open the note first, her eyes widening upon reading its contents.
'Wear this tonight, I insist. See you at 6. -Sasuke'
Out of every possible thing out there, this isn't what Sakura expected. What is he planning to do? She opened the wrapper to see what he wanted her to wear and she couldn't be more surprised. It was an unbelievably beautiful dress. He wanted her to wear this? As much awed Sakura was, this confused her even more. Yesterday.. he didn't even want to see her, he didn't even stay with her last night and went to.. Karin. Then where did he want to take her after all that.. and even sent her such a fancy dress for it? He even insisted her on the note to wear this, she couldn't understand him, it was frustrating. One day he was with another woman and avoiding his wife entirely and.. now he wanted her to wear the outfit he sent and take her out without even telling her where and why? Nonetheless, she chose to oblige as per his insistence, she could only guess he wanted to talk about their relationship and separation.. nicely.. and if he wanted to give her a divorce, she would go for it. It would be even unbearable for her to stay in this knowing he was with someone else after all this time and practically crushing on him. Despite all these assumptions, she couldn't connect the dots, if he wanted to talk about their separation, why'd he send her a dress to wear? And not even tell her the reason behind suddenly doing these? Sasuke-kun can't possibly take me out on a date right?.. no, of course not. She mentally slapped herself for even letting such unrealistic thoughts enter her mind and immediately brushed it off. Guess I'll have to wait till he arrives..
Later that day..
Initially Sakura chose to just go for something as simple as possible, but after Sasuke sent her the dress, she had to change her plans. With a dress as dazzling as this she had to put on some make up. However, she decided to go as minimal as possible, thus applying only clear gloss and eye liner with a loose updo of her pink tresses. As soon as the clock hit 6, she sighed and headed out. She went to the main gate to find Sasuke already present in the car in front of her. Sasuke was sitting in the driver's seat, so she walked to the other side to sit at the front as well.
Sasuke watched her as she took each step, observing every little detail from head to toe. She looks incredible. He was already thankful to see that she did not deny him and actually showed up that too wearing the dress that he sent, and his gratefulness doubled watching her mesmerising features. Being able to witness her beauty was a blessing itself. She walked towards the front seat at a slow pace, and gently opened the door to enter. She's so beautiful.. Sasuke couldn't help but think, even with the noticeable minimum effort she put to get ready, she looked adorable.
With each second Sakura was getting even more confused. She found Sasuke wearing a suit now but when he got out of the house he wore casual clothes. When did he change? Did he go to...? She was taken out of her thoughts when she felt the car move.
"Um.. where are we going? And why did you.. send this dress?" She finally asked out of her constantly growing curiosity. Her perplexity was very much visible to Sasuke, and when she asked him with that sweet voice of hers, though it still lacked its usual grace, he was on the verge of telling her everything in the car. However, he decided to control himself, he had to make it special this time.
"You'll see." He responded plainly, not showing his underlying eagerness just yet. Sakura too decided to go with the flow and not question him anymore, clearly knowing that he wouldn't tell. The rest of the car ride was spent in silence. Sakura's mind raced thinking of the possibilities and Sasuke was going more nervous with each second thinking about what would happen. However, he had to keep himself composed to run things smoothly so he decided to let the thoughts go and completely focus on the driving. Sakura stole occasional glances watching him drive with full concentration, she was very much aware of how good looking his husband already was, and the grey suit he wore today made him look even more gorgeous. Only is the situation wasn't like this.. Sakura thought sadly, looking back at the evening sky through the glass of the window.
After what seemed to be about thirty minutes of wait, Sakura finally felt her husband put a brake on the car. Sakura came out of her thoughts at the realisation and immediately noticed a lavish gate in front. 'Byakugou International Hotel' is what Sakura could see from the outside and judging from its sumptuous exterior, Sakura was certain it was a five star hotel. But why here? The couple got out of the car, Sakura quietly followed her husband while observing the surroundings as he proceeded towards the guard and handed him the car keys for parking. After being done with that, he turned towards her extending his hand, which made her gaze shift towards him. Her eyes first fell on his extended hand and immediately moved to his eyes. Emeralds finally met onyx and they were immediately locked. Sakura looked at his pleading eyes questioningly, and her shimmering greens widened at the realisation that he wanted to hold her hands. Sakura couldn't think straight. How could she? She lost herself into the pool of his dark orbs the moment her eyes fell on them. His gaze seemed almost hypnotising, because no matter what happened between them, she felt the urge to oblige, to do what he was asking for with his gesture. She looked back at his palm, extended for hers to make the contact. And then, slowly and hesitantly, she lifted her hand, moving it towards his as he patiently waited. Sakura finally placed her small, shaky hand on his relatively cold and large one and Sasuke could instantly feel the warmth that her body always radiated. Her soft and petite hand felt so good on his, he gripped it gently but firmly, causing her to feel butterflies in her stomach. He turned back again, leading the way into the hotel and towards the reception, all while ensuring he didn't let go of the tiny hand of his wife. Sakura was both confused and awestruck looking at the interior which was even more captivating.
"Good evening sir, good evening ma'am." The receptionist greeted them, Sasuke nodded and Sakura smiled curtly in response.
"Good evening, we had a reservation for this evening on the rooftop, by the name Mr. And Mrs.Uchiha." Sasuke said formally and the receptionist began checking as soon as he said it. "Ah yes, you'll have to take the elevator to the far right, 28th floor, then our waiter will be there to assist you." He instructed.
"Arigatou." Sasuke responded and began walking towards the lift, all while feeling the warmth of her hand. Sakura looked at Sasuke with surprise the whole time. Was her guess wrong? Did he not want to give her a divorce? Did she think right for a split second when the idea of him taking her on a date crossed her mind? But he has no reason to.. maybe he wanted to talk it out so that she accepts his extra martial affair..? No it can't be, Sasuke-kun can't do that.. can he? Despite her curiosity, she chose to wait a little longer to see where Sasuke was taking her. They got into the lift and the next few seconds were spent in silence until they finally reached the top floor.
"Good evening, you must be Mr. And Mrs.Uchiha?" Someone who Sakura assumed to be the waiter, asked them. Sasuke nodded. "Welcome Uchiha-sama, I'm Sora, I'll be assisting you for the evening, please follow me." He lead the way and the couple followed. It puzzled sakura, seeing how gentle he was being right now, he still held her hand firmly as they walked along the corridor, almost affectionately. Did he really care for her? But yesterday.. she was snapped back to reality upon realising that they reached the end of the corridor. Sora opened the gate in front of them and the view inside took Sakura's breath away. On top of the already elegant design, the whole place was decorated with exotic flowers, mostly cherry blossoms and dimly lit lamps surrounded the whole rooftop. Sakura took in the enthralling view in front of her, almost gasping at how breathtaking the place looked and the night sky and gentle breeze made it even better. They walked towards the center where Sakura noticed an exquisite table for two, with pillars surrounding that area which were decorated entirely with flowers and matte drapes. On the table stood a sophisticated glass candle holder, inside which was an already lit candle.
"Please have a seat Uchiha-sama, I'll get back with the menu shortly." Sora said as he headed towards the gate again, now leaving the couple to themselves. Sasuke looked at her obscure self, he gave her hand a light squeeze, leading her to one of the chairs and extended it for her to seat, finally letting go of the warmth of her hand which he immediately began missing.
"Sasuke-kun, what is-"
"Shh." Sasuke cut her off as he took his own seat opposite to her. "I want everything to go right this time. You'll know. But first, please order something." He insisted. Sora was back shortly with the menu and welcome amenity. The couple then ordered their meals. Sakura, as always being her humble self went for the least expensive one on the menu but that didn't go unnoticed by Sasuke, thus he insisted her to try his suggestions to which she finally agreed.
"Any else you'd like?" Sora asked after taking their orders. Sasuke looked at Sakura and she shook her head in response.
"No, thank you. How long will it take for it to arrive?" He asked.
"Around thirty to forty minutes, sir." The waiter responded.
"That will be fine, please serve our drinks and meal together, I request you to not cause any interruption in between." Sasuke said in a serious tone.
"Sure sir." With that, Sora was gone, leaving the couple alone once again.
Sakura looked back at Sasuke questioningly once again. Did he really bring her on a date? But why? Sasuke shifted his gaze to her curious eyes, he felt nervous, anticipating the consequences and wondering if Sakura will accept whatever he was going to do or not, but it was now or never.
"Sakura.." Sasuke finally began. Despite hours of mental preparation, he began feeling anxious once again. However, her inquisitive but yet adorable gaze on him encouraged him to continue. "I know you're having a hard time.. ever since yesterday. But Sakura, I can explain-"
"Sasu-"
"No, please hear me out first." He cut her off with his words. "I can explain everything, a lot happened which you have no idea about. Let me tell you the truth about the whole situation." He continued, now extending his hands towards his wife and placing them on hers, pulling her gripped hands closer at the center of the table. He ran his thumb along the back of her hand, feeling the smoothness. And when she kept quiet, looking at their held hands and then back at him ever so innocently with her gentle gaze, his heart melted and eyes turned smitten. She was so sweet, too good for him. Sakura wondered what he meant by the truth, was he going to disclose about his relationship with Karin? Then why was he being so sweet to her? Or there was something else she didn't know? Despite her thoughts, she chose to patiently wait for him to speak and he finally did so.
"It's true that everyone expected me and Karin to get married." Sasuke noticed Sakura's eyes widening a little and immediately shifting downwards, even looking slightly hurt at the statement. "But that was solely because of our similar social status." He quickly added to clear things up. However, there was a lot more to explain. "The thing is, after Itachi said he wanted to hand most of his share of the company to me, the pressure of me getting married increased greatly, specially after tou-san said he would step down from his position soon. And as it usually happens and is expected from families like ours, we all naturally thought the girl would be Karin if I were to get married simply because we shared the same status, I knew her for a very long time, and they were our business partners as well." Sasuke explained as Sakura heard each and every word patiently. "Sakura, I don't have any sort of romantic relationship with Karin, I never dated her to begin with." Sakura now looked at him shockingly, eyes widened and lips slightly parted. Sasuke-kun isn't lying.. right? "I didn't know my parents were preparing for my marriage, they fixed everything themselves and informed me a week before the first meeting. My first guess was Karin, but then I got to know she's not the person I'll be getting married to, and then I met you." The mere definition of springtime.. Sasuke thought. Sakura could only look at him surprisedly, he was in the same situation as me.. "Tou-san considered Karin as well at first given her and the Otsutsuki's prominent standing, despite none of us in the family being really fond of her. It was Itachi who was strictly against it, he was the one who asked tou-san to look for other suitors, better suitors." Sasuke said looking directly at Sakura, who gave a faint blush.
"As much stressful things became at that moment because of the sudden marriage, it was a relief knowing that the person isn't Karin. But she didn't take the matter well, and that's where things with Karin deteriorated. Visiting me in my office was the first thing she did after getting to know about our marriage. She couldn't accept that my marriage was fixed with someone other than her. All she cared about was position, she was irked that she wasn't picked despite her financial and social status." Sasuke revealed. As much surprised Sakura was, the revelation made her even more confused. If Sasuke-kun never liked Karin then what happened yesterday? Sakura was again pulled out of her thoughts as Sasuke continued.
"And she didn't stop there, after our engagement, one day before the wedding, Hagoromo Otsutsuki, Karin's father, called a meeting. He proposed the merging of our companies by getting me and Karin married, and suggested us to.. call off our wedding the day before the ceremony." Sakura looked at him incredulously. Each disclosure managed to bewilder Sakura more than the one before. She did hear about Otsutsukis wanting to get Sasuke and Karin married from the girls during her bachelorette party, but they asked him to call off their wedding for that?
"Of course none of us agreed to that, it was quite obvious that Karin put his father up for this by her constant whining, but Hagoromo being the professional man he is handled the situation and our negative response well, so our professionalism wasn't affected whatsoever, even though Karin still couldn't take it, but that didn't matter." So that's what the girls meant when they said the Uchihas denied the Otsutsukis for her.. Sakura realised.
"Even then, Karin wasn't buying it." Sasuke began once again in a serious tone. "Forgive me Sakura, but there are some things I never told you that I should have, which kept happening even after our marriage." Sakura's heart began beating faster as Sasuke spoke, wondering what could've possibly happened.
"The project I worked on with Karin, initially her father was to handle it. But after she got to know I'll be working on it, she took over instead. Do you remember that night, when I said I'll have to go to Bangkok after coming back from a meeting?" Sakura's brows furrowed at his question trying to remember, which she finally did. Seeing Sakura giving a small nod, Sasuke continued again. "It was at their house, Hagoromo wasn't around for a while. During that time, Karin.. she tried to come closer to me.. forcefully." Sakura gaped at him. "I was furious, but I thought she'd understand after I shoved her away. But she didn't, in the Bangkok tour, she tried to keep me around her despite knowing I was avoiding it. And one day, she even began spreading the rumour that I'll be giving you divorce to marry her." He added. Sakura only looked at him, shocked.
"After all that, I asked tou-san to not put me up with anything that involves the Otsutsukis, precisely Karin. But as expected, that did not help given that the Otsutsukis are pretty much on the same level as us. He only asked me to maintain professionalism like they are in front of the public eye, which I knew I had to. Yesterday, Karin herself came to my office. She wanted me to attend the party with her, but when I denied it, she was going insane. She began comparing her wealth and social position with yours, asking me to leave you, and then.. she threw herself at me, it happened so fast, believe me Sakura, I would've stopped anything of that sort from happening if I saw that coming. She was quick and I didn't expect that either. I was trying to get her off me, I almost did so but just then.. you entered and.. saw us in that position." Sakura looked at him with wide and teary eyes, getting glum remembering the scene she witnessed yesterday and now equally shocked at the revelation, if not more. She couldn't have possibly gotten it all wrong..
"I'm really sorry, I know I should've explained you everything then and there. But you left, and I didn't know how to face you after that. It was my mistake, I shouldn't have sent the driver to pick you up when I knew you were hurt, I was the one running away from the problem instead of solving it." He admitted, looking away from her. He couldn't just look her in the eye recalling what he has done to her.
"Sasuke-kun.. you-"
"About the party, I apologise for what happened." Sasuke cut her off realising what she'd bring up. "I realised I made a mistake by leaving you alone, I wanted to talk to you during the event but everything was way too hectic, specially with Karin around. Creating a scene at a party like this wasn't an option, specially in front of elders from prestigious companies. Karin knew that all too well, and took advantage of that. I'd never let her get away with what she did yesterday, Sakura. It was wrong of me to not speak up when she talked like that about you. Tou-san's words kept running in my mind, about company, professionalism, reputation. I kept dwelling with myself when it was happening, and I was glad when you spoke. It's not that I don't care for your dignity, it's my responsibility and pride too. I was too worried about not making a scene and went terribly wrong in the process. I even shouted at you last night when I was supposed to be comforting you, I couldn't think straight. I hurt you, made you cry all day, screamed at you. I regret all of that Sakura. I hope you can forgive me for everything, I'm sorry." Sasuke said with a fallen expression, facing downward and eyes shut, squeezing Sakura's hands as he spoke. Tears were rolling down her cheeks as she thought of each event from yesterday, and now hearing the truth from her husband. I got it all wrong..
"B-but last night.. y-you l-lef-"
"I didn't, I was too guilty to face you after everything, I couldn't pluck up the courage. I.. stayed in another room for the night. I understand where you're coming from, but you're my wife, I would.. never cheat on you." He admitted.
Realisation hit Sakura like tons of bricks as she recalled all the incidents of last night and connected the dots. Tears ran down her cheeks at an even faster rate upon understanding the whole situation.
"I-I don't know... what to say.. .. I got it all w-wrong.. Sasuke-kun I-I'm sorry.." she apologised looking at him with her teary eyes. Sasuke's gaze shifted to her immediately upon hearing the words.
"What for? You did nothing." He said with a hint of confusion.
"N-no, I wasn't s-supposed to doubt you. I l-left without ev-even knowing the t-truth, I m-misunderstood you. Assumed.. so many things. H-how could I.." She began sobbing at that point.
"Hey, why are you crying? Anyone would react like this if they were in your position, maybe even worse. It wasn't your fault." Sasuke tried to console her, however it didn't seem to help at that moment.
"I-it is.. of all people, I-I doubted you, questioned you. I s-should've been m-more patient, I-I should've s-su-supported you, I shouldn't ha-have l-left. I'm s-so sorry Sasuke-kun.. it was m-my fault, I-"
"Shh, Sakura." Sasuke finally managed to cut her off after trying to stop her for numerous times as she choked out the words. She was sobbing uncontrollably, now slightly panting, and it was unbearable for Sasuke to watch. "You're my wife, you have every right to question me anytime and anywhere, about anything at all. Please never hesitate to question me, I promise I will provide you with the answers if that's in my power." Sasuke promised, which only made Sakura more guilty and emotional.
"B-but still I-I shouldn't have done that.."
"Saku-"
"Believe me, I-I trust you, I trust you with my life Sasuke-kun! I p-promise.. I don't know w-what came over me b-back then.." Sakura whimpered, gripping his hands tight, trying to assure him desperately. Sasuke was quite taken aback by her statement. I have this much of her trust?
"Shh, shh. I know you trust me, you only reacted to what you saw, all of it wouldn't have happened if I explained everything then and there. I'm sorry about it, please forgive me?" He pleaded and Sakura was quick to nod, causing a wave of relief to wash over him.
"I'm s-sorry too.." her voice trailed off.
"I wasn't ever mad at you." Sasuke reassured. "And Sakura.. I had to tell you something." He continued. Sakura lifted her head to face him, her sobs became quieter, however tears still ran down her cheeks. She looked at him with watery, curious eyes. Sasuke sighed and finally began. "I know, we weren't in the best circumstances during our marriage, and neither of us were ready. There are numerous times I messed up and I could do anything that you ask for to make it up to you, that's how much you mean to me now."
Sakura liked this man, she was sure of it. So understanding, so gentle, and the fact that he expressed her importance in his eyes like that skyrocketed her emotions. "You've been an amazing friend and an even better wife. And nothing would make me more glad than getting to start everything over with you, and do it right this time. So Sakura, if that's all right with you, can we forget everything that has happened and.. start over?" Sasuke asked hopefully, he could feel his heart beginning to beat faster anticipating her response. Sakura sobbed harder. In any other situation, Sasuke might've understood her gesture, but perhaps it was his constant nervousness before actually asking Sakura this, which caused him to misinterpret her weeping state. Did she not want this?
"You are okay with it.. aren't you?" He asked again in a softer tone.
Unable to speak at that moment out of the overflow of emotions and contentment, Sakura nodded desperately and squeezed her husband's hands tightly. She burst into tears, but this time, they were happy tears that she was shedding. Yes, she totally liked this man. Sasuke involuntary smiled as relief washed over him, not that he minded it. He thanked her mentally, over and over again. His wife was ready to restart everything they had, and this time he wouldn't let things go wrong between them, he promised himself. He'd try his best to give her the happiness that she deserves, and communicate with her more from now on. He handed her a tissue, not liking to see her in such a state.
"Please don't cry anymore, I don't like it when you cry." Sasuke said as she wiped her tears away.
"So.. this is why you brought me here? I was really afraid when you weren't saying anything.." Sakura admitted. Internally she felt silly now, she came up with so many assumptions, how could she ever think of him like that?
"Aa. Sorry about that, there were too many things to tell you, I just wanted to make sure I'm doing it right this time." He responded. Sakura smiled at him, oh how much he waited to see that beautiful smile. He wouldn't hurt her, ever. Not when he knew he wouldn't get to see her smile like this if that happened. As for Sakura, she couldn't be more grateful. The man she liked appreciated her, respected her, wanted to fix things with her. Even if she wasn't sure if he liked her or not, he said she was important to him, it was enough to make her go from miserable to giddy at once.
Meal arrived shortly and the couple proceeded to have their candlelit dinner in silence, only enjoying each other's presence. They stole shy glances occasionally and the awkward tension between them was very much evident, however both were thankful to feel it lessen with time. "Here's the dessert menu, sir. Hope you enjoyed the meal." Sora said curtly as he picked up their empty plates from their dinner and left again.
Sakura was only going through the menu when she noticed her husband looking at her. Thinking something was wrong, she called him. "Sasuke-kun?"
"Hn?" He lazily responded, never shifting his eyes away from her, but now focusing on her eyes. She blushed.
"You're not taking anything?" Sakura asked in order to ease the tension.
"I'm not a very big fan of sweets you know, but if you say so, I will accompany you." He said with a content look on his face.
"Yes please, I can't eat when I know you're just.. sitting there." She said with a pout. Adorable girl.
"As you wish." He whispered out, however, Sakura's mind seemed to be somewhere else by that time, and suddenly, her face lit up.
"Hey, Sasuke-kun!" She called him excitedly which caught his attention. He looked at her with curious eyes, indicating her to carry on.
"If it's okay with you, can we go somewhere else for dessert? I'll take you!" She happily asked, her emerald orbs gleaming at the sudden idea that crossed her mind. Sasuke's brows furrowed slightly, not that he wasn't okay with it, but her sudden excitement made him quite curious.
"Somewhere?" He asked inquisitively.
"Pleaasseee? I promise you won't regret it!" She pleaded, placing her tiny hands on his relatively larger ones and giving them a gentle squeeze. Of course, there was no way Sasuke could say no to his wife, specially after this. And her enthusiasm made him all more pleased. He gave a small smile.
"As you wish." He could die hearing her squeal of happiness after his response.
"Arigatou!" She was definitely delighted to see Sasuke agree to her suggestion. It always amazed him how the smallest of things could make her so happy, this sweet creature certainly deserved the best things and he could only hope to be able to give her all of that. His smile was wider this time.
"I've never heard of this place earlier..." Sakura murmured as they passed the hotel they were in a few moments back, taking a last glance at its beauty. Sasuke realising what she was talking about, spoke as he drove along the highway now.
"It's lesser known among tourists, most foreigners usually stay here for business purposes and arrange meetings or such events, plus it's somewhat far from the busy areas too."
"I see. Um.. what made you choose this place?" She hesitantly asked him out of curiosity, not sure of how he'd respond but his expression said that he took it well.
"It's a nice place, the food is good as well, I assumed you'd like this." He explained.
"I did, that was a really pretty place up there." She said. It was true, she was completely awed at the beautiful place he took her to and the efforts he put into her.
"I'm glad you did." She heard Sasuke say beside her. Now another question was lingering in her mind that she wanted to ask but wasn't sure if she should. What if he doesn't take that well?
"Something wrong?" Sasuke asked seeing her sudden change in expression from a side glance. Sakura snapped out of her thoughts at his sudden call, her expression turned uncertain.
"No.. I was just wondering if.. there's a particular reason you sent me this dress to wear?.." Sasuke smirked, seeing a flustered Sakura would be fun.
"Aa. It would suit you well, that's why." As expected, a prominent blush appeared on her glowing cheeks and she looked away from him. He smirked again.
"Now where do I go? We just entered raikiri road." Sasuke asked suddenly, which turned out to be good for Sakura to divert her attention from what he just said.
"Oh.. um, take the u-turn ahead, then go straight. You can park the car just there along the road, I'll tell you where to stop." Sasuke obliged to her words, he wondered where she'd take him, the other side of the road had a river beside it with a wide walkway in between. Sasuke couldn't see any dessert shop there which somewhat confused him. Nonetheless, he was looking forward to what his wife was up to.
"Right there!" Sakura pointed at one empty parking space along the road and Sasuke was quick to follow what she said. Soon the car completely stopped and the couple stepped out, Sakura being the first and the faster one out of her excitement.
"Let's go Sasuke-kun!" She almost ran to Sasuke while he walked towards her, holding his hands gently and leading the way. Sasuke returned the gesture, shifting his hands a little to intertwine their fingers in a firm grip as they walked. He smiled to himself, getting to see her happy and radiant once again and receiving her forgiveness was the best thing that happened to him in a while.
Sakura was walking slightly in front of him as she led the way, so staying behind her gave Sasuke a generous view of her bare upper back that the backless dress provided. Her up do hairstyle seemed to make it even better for him, because quite frankly, he liked what he was seeing and was tempted to touch the smooth skin. Not like he would actually do so, unless he was sure that she's comfortable, even though controlling himself seemed harder in this situation. Initially when their marriage was fixed, he was in denial of the fact, but even he knew that his wife is indeed beautiful. And with time, he even admitted it to himself. She had a face and a body that could turn heads, the most exotic facial features and soft but decent curves. Sasuke would be lying to himself if he said he didn't check his wife out, after staying with her for quite a while, his eyes did occasionally and involuntarily fall on her curvaceous body, although it always lasted for only a few seconds until Sasuke snapped out to reality realising what he was doing. His eyes fell and his mind diverted to her without even his own control and he never found himself doing these in cases of other girls the way he did them when it came to Sakura. Her supple skin was unbearably inviting and given what transpired between then tonight and how enticing she looked, he even began feeling a hint of sexual attraction towards her, on top of already liking her appealing beauty and pure heart. Sasuke however felt his cheeks getting hot at the thought.
Sakura finally stopped and stood in line in front of a cart, turning back to face Sasuke with a warm smile on her face. It was already past midnight, so not many people were around, the wide walkway only seemed to attract a very few people at this hour because of the cart.
"Ice cream?" Sasuke asked her, noticing the writing on it.
"Yes! Uh.. I know it's not that fancy or anything.. but-"
"Tch, annoying. What makes you think I won't like it if it isn't fancy? You've brought me here, I know it will be nice." Sasuke said but cutting his wife off before she could speak any further. Who'll tell her he'd be glad to be anywhere as long as she's with him? Sakura blushed again. Sasuke really knew how to fluster her.
"Arigatou, you'll love it!" Sakura said with a smile.
"Oh, is that you Sakura? My, my, it's been a long time since I've seen you!" Sasuke suddenly heard an old woman speak who seemed to be the owner of the cart.
"Uruchi baa-san, it's good to see you again. How are you doing?" Sakura curtly responded to the woman.
"Just the usual, my days pass beside the river selling ice creams, but what about you? You completely stopped coming to my place." The old woman responded, somewhat in a complaining tone.
"Uh.. forgive me baa-san, a lot has happened lately. But you'll be happy to know, I got married, meet my husband!" Sakura delightedly said, shifting her eyes to Sasuke.
"You got married? Oh kami, congratulations dear! So you're her husband, let me see you young man." The lady stood up, taking a closer look at Sasuke.
"Konbanwa." He respectfully greeted with a bow.
"Konbanwa, Konbanwa.. what a decent and fine groom he is! You two make a lovely couple, I'm glad you found yourself a handsome young man perfectly matching your beauty and grace, Sakura dear." Uruchi complimented, making the couple blush a little.
"Arigatou gozaimasu." Both Sasuke and Sakura thanked the woman politely.
"Stay blessed you two. The days are yours, it makes me happy seeing young lovebirds bonding in this place, and today I'm even more glad to see you Sakura, happy and in a healthy marriage, your companion is quite romantic to spend time with you in such a place at such a peaceful hour. I assure you all the ice cream flavours here are delectable, pick your favourite ones children." If anything, the couple blushed harder at the old lady's words. Sure what Sasuke arranged for her tonight could be called romantic, but Sakura wasn't sure if calling their relationship romantic at this stage would be the right thing to do, specially when they only started everything over. Moreover, despite the moments they shared, nothing between them was evidently romantic, nor they expressed such feelings towards one another. Sasuke on the other hand felt the awkward tension reappearing at hearing the words, as much as a romantic relationship with Sakura sounded.. nice, but they were nowhere close to being intimate, he didn't even know if Sakura thought of him that way. The couple soon snapped out of their momentary thought process realising they had an order to place.
Sasuke wasn't a big fan of sweets, so he went for lemon and blueberry yogurt flavours for the tangy taste while Sakura chose strawberry and mint chocolate. They had their fingers intertwined the whole time since they got out of the car so when Uruchi extended the two double scoop cups to hand it to them, Sakura was about to let go of Sasuke's hand to free his occupied right hand to hold the cup. However, she was confounded to see her husband tighten the grip and use his left hand instead to hold the ice cream cup, not letting her hand go. A smile formed on her lips at the gesture, if it wasn't for her staying around him on a daily basis, she'd never know how soft Sasuke could get with merely his gestures.
They walked to an empty bench for two near the edge of the walkway upon taking their desserts and sat facing the river. Sakura was right, only few seconds of sitting and Sasuke already liked the place. It was peaceful watching the almost still river, illuminated by the lights at the edges of the walkway. The cool and gentle breeze made a soft sound as it blew gracefully, and the night sky made the view even more enchanting and the atmosphere even more pleasant. It was getting quite late so there were barely any people in the area, but that only seemed to make it better. They enjoyed their ice creams in silence, though Sasuke was slightly disappointed to have to let go of Sakura's hand in other to eat the dessert, but the angelic look on her face at the moment made up for it.
"Isn't the view soothing?" Sasuke suddenly heard his wife ask.
"Aa. You were not wrong when you said I'd like it."
"I used to come here often earlier with my friends, parents too, before our marriage that is. The place is really nice, I was never here this late at night though, but this is even better." Sakura explained.
That explains why the lady knew Sakura so well. "A calming place to be in." Sasuke stated.
"Would you mind if I asked you a question?" Sakura quietly asked, wondering if he'd be open enough to answer.
"Go ahead."
"How often do you go there, the place you showed me the day you were giving me the house tour?"
Sasuke understood what she meant, so she remembered the secret place he showed her earlier when they recently got married. "Once in a while. Why?" He asked at her suddenly raising this topic.
"No reason, just wondering. This place reminded me of the one you showed me in the garden back then, it was peaceful." The rosette replied.
"I've never seen you going there." She added.
"Hn, like I said earlier, no one knows about that, it's peaceful to stay alone when things get too stressful. But I do pay visits at times."
"Really? When was the last time?"
Sasuke sighed at her question. "Last night."
There was a pregnant silence after he uttered the words, the couple conversed while both their eyes were fixed on the view in front of them as they enjoyed their desserts, however, noticing the sudden silence, Sasuke looked at his wife with a side glance, noticing her fallen expression and lowered gaze.
"Oh.. I'm sorry.." Sakura said in almost a whisper, the wave of guilt washing all over her once again.
"Hey, don't be, please. I'm glad that whatever happened led us here, and helped us start our bond over." He assured, at the same time extending and placing his unoccupied hand on hers, giving it a gentle squeeze momentarily. She gave a small smile as they got back to watching the view once again as they ate and talked.
"On a second thought, weren't you scared?" Sakura asked.
"Of what?"
"The darkness."
Sasuke chuckled. "Is there something to be scared of about the dark?"
"Maybe. I mean, you never know what's around you."
"I never get such feeling that there's any unexpected thing that would show up and scare me. Don't tell me you're afraid of it?" Sasuke asked, slightly amused at the possible new information about her.
"Not really, but it gets scary when everything is dark, like you know, when there's no source of light at all? Not the darkness like this, where lights and people are around me and it's an open space, or when I'm at home, the moonlight illuminates the room and I go to sleep knowing you people are around, that never bothered me. But, the denser places like the one you showed, or confined rooms where I'm the only one, when it's all dark, that's.. scary." She explained. She was pretty into what she was explaining, Sasuke thought.
"I see what you mean. But you can try visiting that place once, it's peaceful at night." Sasuke said with a smirk, if she responded with what he was expecting her to, he'd get to see a blushing Sakura yet again.
"Bold of you to assume I'll ever go there at that unholy hour all alone." Such a predictable girl.
"Well, you do have a husband to accompany you, if that makes things a bit pleasant. You see, he isn't afraid of it." He responded playfully, well aware of the consequences of his words as he glanced at her. And there it was, a faint amount of redness forming on her cheeks. It made him smirk again.
"I.." Sakura didn't know what to say, it was already embarrassing enough that Sasuke saw her blushing self, and her being out of words didn't make things any better. Sasuke couldn't suppress his snicker, earning a pout from his wife.
"H-hey, that's not nice at all!" She complained, almost in a childlike manner.
"What's not?"
"You're laughing at me."
Because you're just that adorable. Sasuke thought, if he said that out loud she might just transform into a tomato out of the redness. "I was just stating the possibilities, but on a serious note, you won't have to feel scared at any part of Uchiha Residence. And as far as the back of the garden comes... you know what to do." He said with a tone of mischief at the end.
"Not go at unholy hours?" Sakura playfully asked.
Was she trying him? "The latter." He said with a slight frown and an obvious tone only to see a giggling Sakura. Realising that was her attempt to tease him back, he couldn't help but chuckle as well. Cutie. And soon, the couple burst into laughter at their mischievous interaction. Sasuke was certain he hasn't laughed like this in a very long time, nor felt this good.
After their little ice cream date was over, they proceeded to pay the bills. Despite Sakura constantly denying, which was probably out of manners, Sasuke got her another ice cream to have on their way home, judging from her gestures, he knew she really liked the ice creams here. Sakura chatted a little standing by the cart as Sasuke paid and then they both bid farewell. Sasuke and Sakura were about to leave when the old woman spoke once again. "I hope you're keeping Sakura happy young man, you wouldn't want to disappoint a pure soul like her!" Uruchi said, which seemed more like an order, causing Sakura's cheeks to redden a little. A small smile formed on Sasuke's lips.
"You have my word, baa-san."
Well, he meant it.
Uchiha Residence
"Could you check if my phone is in there just for a second? I think I left it." Sasuke asked his wife from the other side of the semi opened door of the closet. It was quite late by the time they came back home, so naturally the couple decided to quickly freshen up and head to sleep, and it was Sakura's turn now after Sasuke had finished doing so.
"The door's open Sasuke-kun, don't worry, you may enter." He heard his wife respond and did so upon her approval. He found her arranging something in the drawer on the other corner as he went to find his phone.
"You haven't changed yet." He stated nonchalantly as he looked for his phone.
"I will, I was just fixing some stuff in here. Hey, there's your phone." Sakura pointed as she moved to another section beside the drawer to find the device on a chair nearby.
"Ah, arigatou." Sasuke said as he approached his wife seeing the phone in her hand, however, he noticed something else first.
"Sakura, ice cream." He stated vaguely, making Sakura confused instead.
"Huh?" She asked, not sure what he meant.
"There's ice cream on your lips." He stated causing Sakura to rub the corner of her lips with her unoccupied hand immediately. It must've gotten on her when she had the ice cream on their way home.
"More to your left, not here." Sasuke informed as he saw her rubbing the wrong spot. It was around the middle of her bottom lip, but it seemed that she wasn't catching the right place with her fingers. And when she rubbed the wrong spot for the second time, Sasuke moved forward. He wasn't even thinking, it almost seemed like an involuntary action as he took a step towards her, closing the distance between them and subsequently taking her by surprise. Sakura looked up with slightly wide eyes at the man in front of her who was at least a healthy amount of inches taller than her, if not a foot. However, she didn't step back despite the lack of distance between them. She did not want to step back. They've never been this close earlier except when they hugged on his birthday, and right now they were close enough to feel each other's warmth. Sasuke looked at her intently, so beautiful. Not to mention the dress made her look so much more appealing and hotter. Sakura stayed completely still, her heart began pounding against her chest anticipating what he would do next. They both remained in that position for the next few seconds, until finally Sasuke raised one of his hands, all the way to her inviting lips. He lifted her chin slightly with his index finger, at the same time placing his thumb on her bottom lip.
It took him all his self control to not press his lips on hers right then and there for the softness he just experienced, his thumb seemed to practically melt on the smoothness of her baby pink plump lips and it only made his attraction towards his wife increase tenfold. When he realised she wasn't stopping him, he applied a slight bit more pressure with his thumb, dragging the finger downwards creating friction with the flesh, causing him to feel the silky texture even better. Initially he only had the innocent intention of wiping the ice cream off her lips, however, something just clicked between them at that moment to make the atmosphere unbearably hot and tempting instead.
Sakura did not move an inch, it almost felt like her heart will burst out of her chest. The moment Sasuke's calloused and cold finger touched her velvety and warm lips, she felt the most foreign sensations shoot through every part of her body, foreign but pleasant. It was a mere touch, but this is possibly the most intimate they've ever been, and judging from the feeling Sasuke's single finger was giving her, she could already tell how expert his hands are. The thought was completely involuntary, but given how Sakura was feeling right now, it only made her wonder how his hands would feel on other parts of her body. She could not think straight, it was almost like he captured her in a trance where she couldn't do anything but stare at him with semi wide eyes, allowing him to do whatever he was doing to her, and like every bit of it.
Sasuke's eyes went half lidded as he stared at her with awe, this wasn't the first time he observed every feature of her beautiful face, but yet he couldn't get enough, and could possibly never get enough. He knew he rubbed her flesh enough to wipe the ice cream off, but he just couldn't stop touching her. The simple moment was quick to turn hot and sensual, and Sasuke only felt the urge to touch her more, to feel the moist skin of her lips better. He continued tracing his thumb along the tender flesh, the slightly firm grip allowed the tip of his thumb to pull on her lower lip, causing her lips to part as he kept dragging the finger downwards at a painfully slow pace.
Sakura lowered her gaze at this point, it was impossible for her to keep looking at him, specially when he looked this seductive as he continued doing whatever he was doing to her. She'd have to thank whatever led them here, it felt too good, too hot. The way he looked at her so intensely, Sakura felt that his mere gaze on her was enough to hypnotise her completely, or even melt her into a puddle.
Sasuke continued pulling as long as the hold of his thumb on her lips allowed him to, and when the finger finally let go of the supple flesh, it was released to move back to its original position with a slight bounce. It only took him a couple of seconds to already miss the softness and warmth of her satiny skin. Sakura felt unbelievably hot compared to it was just a simple touch and she was certain that the activity left her blushing violently, and that her husband clearly knew and could see it. She looked back at him upon being finally released from his touch, not like she liked it, she wanted him to touch her, over and over again. But yet she couldn't look at him for long, not when he was staring at her like that. She lowered her eyes once again after they shared a few moments of intense stare at one another.
Sasuke observed her every move obsessively, she looked incredibly sweet blushing like that and the fact that it was him who was making her react like this made him feel even better. He was quite fond of how she always reacted around him, but the sensuality of the situation made this particular moment far more compelling for him, and made her appreciably more desirable. Sakura was a pretty much predictable girl, at least when it came to Sasuke, but nothing in the world prepared him for what she did next.
At an agonisingly slow rate, she sucked her bottom lip, the part where he just had his fingers on, pulling the plump muscle inwards. Sasuke's heartbeat fastened, she looked impossibly erotic, sucking on her own lower lip like that, her shy nature causing her to have her gaze down while a beautiful blush painted her cheeks. And the fact that she did it ever so innocently without realising the suggestive nature of her actions while also looking this unbearably arousing urged him to erase all the lines between them and test her innocence already. She continued doing it for a moment until finally releasing the flesh. What was revealed upon her letting go was her gleaming and moist lip, looking uncontrollably inviting to the eyes and even more tempting to touch. Sasuke could feel himself heat up at just the right places witnessing the sight. He never felt this attracted towards a girl, but when it came to Sakura, he pretty much lost his senses, wanting to explore more of her. He wasn't even thinking, he simply couldn't, when he felt the need to lean onto her to taste and feel the softness of her lips with his own mouth. However, he restrained himself with every ounce of his self control. He wanted it, he really did, but he wasn't sure about his wife, what if she didn't like his advances? Or what if it's too fast for her to process? They only decided to start things over today, and with her, Sasuke planned to take his time, he never felt any liking towards a girl until Sakura entered his life, and he planned to make things right with her this time, which is why, he decided to follow her pace in the relationship. She wasn't really stopping him, but something told him to let things be the way it is right now and not rush.
Sakura shyly looked back at him once again with her captivating emerald eyes, not sure what to do. She was already pretty much in a heated state, well aware of her completely reddened self and her husband's intense gaze, which only made her flush harder. However, she knew she had to do something, she was standing still right there for God knows how long.. and it was getting awkward for her as well, not uttering a word when all that just transpired between them. "Uh... S-Sasu-"
"You should change, I'll be outside." He softly cut her off, easing the extreme amount of tension now developing between them.
"A-alright.." Sakura mumbled embarrassedly, quickly handing him his phone which she suddenly realised that she had in her hands the whole time. It almost pained him to depart from her after sharing such a sensual moment, nonetheless, he was satisfied seeing Sakura's flustered self. A smirk appeared on his face as he turned away from her, walking out of the closet. Teasing his wife was already fun enough, and now he had a lot more ideas in his mind to leave her completely red and flushed before him. Things will be interesting, Sasuke thought.
It was only a while before Sakura was back in the room in her pyjamas, ready for sleeping. She found Sasuke working on something standing by the desk, and the sight made her blush again as she recalled their moment that happened a while ago. Noticing the sound of the closet door opening, his eyes shifted to her.
"You're back." He stated lazily, while also admiring the cute girl before him, she always looked good in pretty much everything.
"I am, what are you working on? You should be sleeping." She asked in a curious tone, somewhat confused because her husband literally acted like nothing happened between them after leaving her all flustered back in the closet, but rather chose to not show it and talked in the same manner that he did- pretending nothing happened. However, regardless of everything, there's one thing yet to be done and she was looking for a perfect time to do so, before they go to sleep that is.
"I was just waiting, let's go th-"
"Sasuke-kun!" She cut him off which caused him to look at her, somewhat concerned at the sudden interruption. Perfect timing.
"Hn?" He asked but she did not respond, rather, she walked towards him without saying a word. As soon as he was within her arms reach, the pinkette wrapped her hands around his torso, snuggling herself against him as she pulled herself closer.
"Thank you for today." She softly said while resting her head against his chest. Sasuke was pretty surprised at her sudden gesture. Nonetheless, he quickly brought himself together and returned the gesture, placing one hand gently on her head and wrapping the other around her body, his large hands engulfing her small figure. A smile formed on his face, she really was an angel, so humble and soft-hearted, Sasuke wasn't a person to believe in finding comfort in a person, but then she entered his life. And now, holding Sakura felt like home.
"Thank you for coming with me, I hope I could make it special for you." He muttered in a whisper, but loud enough for Sakura to hear him.
"It was special Sasuke-kun.. really special." She responded breathily. The couple bathed in absolute glory, holding each other in their arms like that. Sasuke took in her scent, the same scent he loved inhaling, he recalled their hug a few days ago on his birthday night, it was the same, except that now it felt a lot more comfortable, almost as if they erased one of the many lines they had between them to draw each other closer.
"Hn, if that is the case.. I was wondering if you'd want to call this our.. first date?" Sasuke finally asked her in a breathy whisper. He has been wanting to do so for quite a while now, but didn't know how, and now seemed the perfect opportunity. Sakura smiled against his chest.
"First date eh?" She held him tighter as she uttered the words. There's no one else she'd rather want to go on a date with.
"I'll be looking forward to more of these then." She playfully added, unaware of how Sasuke immediately took note, there's nothing else he'd be more gratified to do. He ran his hand through her hair as a confirmation of her words, ensuring her that he'd be equally pleased even though he verbally didn't say it at that moment. The couple held each other for a long while after that, silently enjoying each other's warmth and presence, almost like that time back on Sasuke's birthday night, until finally letting go.
"Goodnight, Sakura."
"Goodnight, Sasuke-kun."
There was no doubt that Sakura liked her husband, a lot. She never thought this would happen, but with time, he really grew on her. And after today, she fell for him all over again and possibly harder. This made her wonder if he'd ever feel the same towards her. Sure he was unbelievably nice to her today, but she wasn't sure if it was a liking towards her that made him behave this way. Little did she know, that her husband liked her far more than she could comprehend or imagine.
Author's note- THIS WAS THE CUTEST CHAPTER I HAVE WRITTEN SO FAR YEEEE!!! And the longest too, 12k words!! That's like three times longer than the usual chapters that I write and took the longest amount of time to write as well. There will be a lot more moments of Sasusaku from now onwards because so much development happened between them in this chapter and I can't wait to write all of that!! Do drop a review on how you felt about their moments!
Ps- this story has crossed 100k words now! I'm so glad it came so far, thankyou for the constant support!
