Sadly: I don't own Naruto v-v-enjoy!

Chapter 27: The One Who Felt Selfish

Sakura was busy in the kitchen finishing up the few dishes she had left to fix for lunch. It has been a week since Sakura's birthday. It's also been a week she's seen Sasuke around the house. She hasn't seen him home since he walked out the door that day. Sakura knew he was locked up in his room considering the fact that his car was parked outside, unless Naruto picked him up sometime when she wasn't around. The second Sakura pulled out her chair to sit down for lunch she heard Sasuke's footsteps approach the kitchen.

She sat down and picked up her chopsticks, and moved her rice around to let some steam out. She blew on her food when she felt him come closer. Minding her own business, Sakura didn't bother looking up to greet him assuming he came in to do his own thing. She took a sip of water and continued to blow on her food when she noticed he wasn't moving. Shrugging her shoulders she brought some rice to her lips and nibbled on the bits of food when Sasuke suddenly cleared his throat.

"Ahem.." he coughed but Sakura wasn't paying much attention to him. Angry, Sasuke clicked his tongue and glared at her.

"Hey." he mumbled, he slid his hands in his pockets waiting for her to look up. It's true this has been the first time he's seen her since he got back from the birthday party. He waited for her to look up from her food when she didn't.

"Hey."

"What?" she asked not looking up at him, "What do you want?"

"Here" he suddenly said and Sakura looked up to see him offering a card to her.

"What's that?" She asked raising an eyebrow at him. Sakura didn't feel like saying much to him anymore these days.

"What's it look like?"

"It looks like something I don't want" she said back simply and went back to eating when she heard Sasuke scoff at her.

"Why are you trying giving me that anyway?"

"Hn," he smirked, "what else do you use a credit card for? Here, take it." He offered but Sakura went back to looking at her food, her appetite suddenly fading from her system.

Why the Hell is he giving me his card for?... tsk, I know what he wants. She sneered at him at continued to pick at her food.

"You don't have to give me your card, I already bought groceries for the house."

Sasuke growled at her and pushed the card towards her more, "Take. the. card."

"Why?! I said I already bought groceries with my money!"

"It's not for groceries damn it!" he shouted back, slamming his hands on the table. Sakura took a good look at him to see he was quite flustered and really annoyed.

"If it's not for groceries then what's it for?"

"Present" he said back.

"Huh?..." Sakura was losing her patience with his odd behaviour... Sasuke doesn't normally act this way.

"What about presents?"

He sighed and growled louder, "I meant.. buy yourself a present."

"uhh..."

"Your birthday passed right?"

Sakura crossed her arms, "Yeah so.."

"So get yourself something" Sasuke placed the credit card and slid it front of her and walked over to the fridge to grab some milk when he heard her scoff loudly.

For some reason Sakura felt offended, by his gesture. She felt immense anger pile inside of her.

"Thanks but no thanks, I would never use your money for anything unless I was completely desperate for food."

"What?" Sasuke glared at her as he walked back and poured himself a glass of milk, "Hn, what's the big deal? Just buy yourself a present and think of it as something from me, Karin does it all the time"

Sakura choked on her water when she heard this. She got up and yanked the card off the table, and stomped over to him, "News flash Sasuke, I'm not Karin."

Sakura smacked the card hard against his chest and walked away, her appetite was completely gone after that last comment.

"Well fine then, it's not like I was offering it as a gesture of kindness I was just pitying you" he cursed back at her and Sakura paused mid-step.

"The last thing I need from you is pity Sasuke Uchiha."

"Don't come crying to me when my parents ask you what I got you for your birthday!" he yelled.

"I won't!"

"Fine!"

"FINE! ugh!" Sakura stomped upstairs and slammed her door as loud as she possibly can and sat on her bed.

"Asshole, UGHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!" She screamed into her pillow and fell back onto the mattress, "What gave him the idea that I wanted his pity, or attention, or money, or anything! I don't need him! I don't need anyone, the only thing I need is..." Sakura's eyes landed on the scholarship letter, "What I need is a ticket out of this place..." She grabbed the letter and kissed it, "You're the only thing I need.." Sakura sighed loudly and let the letter fall onto her face.

A few weeks later summer vacation came to an end. School has started up again and Sakura was ready to go back to school for 2 reasons: one being Naruto and two being Kakashi sensei. Sakura admired Kakashi sensei and took his advice to heart so she knew that he would be great help once she explains her dilemma to him. She didn't want to tell him the embarrassing details but she still felt the need to make sure he completely understood her problem in order to make the right decision though Sakura knew at the pit of her gut what the right decision was. Sakura ran into class to see it empty except for said teacher reading his book.

"Kaka-sensei!"

"Welcome back Sakura" Kakashi's eyes smiled back at her and Sakura naturally smiled back at him.

"Thanks sensei...um..listen, could I...possibly trouble you sometime after school today?"

Sakura bit down on her lip as she waited for his reply.

"Hm? what for Sakura? Did something happen?" kakashi watched Sakura shift from foot to foot. She grabbed an envelope out of her bag and handed it over to him. "um... remember the present Tsunade gave me? Well...this is it...mm read it"

"Oooookay." Kakashi grabbed the letter and slipped out the paper and skimmed through it.

"mhm...wow...this is..."

"amazing?...yeah..I know..." Sakura's voice grew quiet.

"It's very impressive...so what's the problem?"

"hm? Ah, well-"

Rrrrrrrring!

"The bell..."

"Ahh they'll start running in any minute, hm well...I have a meeting with the other teacher's today but I can fit you in sometime this week, is that alright Sakura?"

"Ah sure, yes, ummm thank you Kakashi sensei" Sakura bowed and Kakashi chuckled at her gesture.

"Anything for my favorite student" he chirped quickly before realizing what he had just said.

Sakura sharply looked up at him and noticed his eyes smile, "Favorite?"

"Shhhhhhhhhh" Kakashi brought his finger up to his masked lips and winked at her, "let's keep that out little secret okay?"

Sakura giggled and nodded her head, "Alright sensei thank you!" She bit down on her lip to prevent herself from smiling so much. Kakashi sensei was so sweet to her, and she had no idea why. Sakura did a quick sharp turn and called out to him, "Oh and Kakashi sensei?"

"Yes?" he answered back not looking up from his book.

"You're my favorite too."

Kakashi smiled a full smile for the first time in ages, a smile showing off his teethy pearls at that and was fortunate his mask was covering it. He brought his book closer to his face when he heard her song-like giggle, "Your eyes are smiling sensei" she cooed causing him to smile wider.

Kakashi chuckled at put his book down and looked up to see her sticking her tongue playfully at him.

"Go sit, student."

"Sure thing, teacher!" Sakura laughed again as she walked over to her desk and pulled out her medic book.

Sakura sunk her face deeper into the book as the groups of kids started walking in. Sakura was anxiously waiting for Naruto to walk in, hmm...if anything Naruto would be getting a snack before class starts...

bzzzzzzz...bzzzzzzzzzz.

Ah! My phone...

Sakura took out her phone and looked down to see it was a text from Naruto.

Ba-thump

Sakura read the text to herself...

Naruto: Sakura-chan are you in class yet?

Sakura: mhm... are you coming? Class started...

Naruto: nope.

Sakura began to sulk... it was the first day back..Sakura hasn't seen Naruto at all during the summer...

Sakura: :c aww...what's wrong?

Naruto: :( just not up for it... um is it alright if I see you right now?

Sakura: now?

Naruto: Yeah..

She bit down on her lip and pondered, it wasn't like her to leave class...or skip...

Naruto: If you can't then it's fine

Sakura: NO! It's fine...where are you?

One day won't hurt...it'll be for a little while...Sakura looked up at the class to see Kakashi sensei still reading, the students were talking amongst themselves anyway.

Naruto: our spot.

Sakura's heart clenched at his words, she felt herself smile. She was happy she shares something exclusive between the two of them.

Sakura: mmk I'm coming! ^_^

Sakura grabbed her things and ran over to Kakashi's desk, "um sensei...I need to go to the nurse's office..."

"Are you feeling alright?"

"uh..no my stomach hurts"

"really?" Kakashi smirked, it was obvious she was lying, "I have something in my desk right here if-"

"NO! I just need to go to the nurse's office it's hurting badly.."

"That's alright" he smiled, "look see I have meds the nurse gave-"

"It's cramps Sensei!" Sakura blushed immediately as did Kakashi who suddenly got quiet.

"It's um you see I-"

"Go"

"huh?"

Kakashi brought his book back to his face to hide his embarrassment, perhaps she wasn't lying...

"You're free to go."

"ah thank you!" Sakura mentally punched herself over and over and kept her head down as she ran out the room, cramps really?! REALLY?! STUPID!

Sakura whacked herself on her head as she quickly ran out the building and over to the trees.

Her lungs were burning, and her heart was racing faster by the minute. She obviously needed to stop and catch her breath but she just couldn't. The anticipation was eating her alive, and she couldn't wait another minute to see him. There he is! Sakura ran faster as she star'ed at Naruto's back. She watched the early autumn breeze push his hair towards the wind direction as he stood still in front of the giant cherry blossom tree.

"Naruto!" She screamed out, as she finally paused to catch her breath. Naruto turned around and gave her the warmest smile she has ever gotten.

Her heart was now racing in full speed as she ran towards him, "Narutooooo!"

"Sakura" he smiled wider as he spread his arms out. Sakura noticed he was a bit sad but quickly set it aside as he walked towards her and caught her in his arms.

"Naruto! I-"

"I missed you" he whispered into her ear, cutting her off. Sakura gasped as she felt his arms wrap around her tightly, "I...really...missed..." Sakura felt his hot tears fall onto her shoulder. Her eyes widened when she felt his whole body shake and heard him sniffle.

"Naru..to..?"

"Don't move...please just." Naruto continued to cry on her shoulder as Sakura stood still and let him cry it all out.

She hugged him tightly as she slowly rubbe'd his back, What happened?.. hearing him cry this way was starting to get her teary...

"Naruto why are you crying...?" her voice was shaky she knew she was going to start crying if she continued to talk.

"She...she broke my heart Sakura, she just broke it...and I.."

"Who...broke your heart?.."

Naruto sighed as he held on to her tightly, "Hinata.." he whispered, "We..we broke up"

Sakura gasped loudly and parted from him to look up at him, "Why?.what..What happened I thought-"

"She picked Kiba over me...again." He sighed and took her hand, "Come..I'll tell you everything"

Sakura nodded as he let her to their tree and sat on the ground. She sat in front of him and paid close attention to everything he's told her. She hung onto every word and only spoke when she felt it was okay to.

Naruto sniffed and ruffled his hair, "So yeah...that's what happened.."

"Oh Naruto..." Sakura hesitantly hugged him again and gently caressed the back of his head "I'm so sorry...I wish I could do something.."

"No..it's fine..." he sighed and wrapped his arms around her waist and buried his face in her, "I'm over it, I beat myself up over it all summer, but I'm okay now..."

"Well if you need anything, tell me okay?"

He nodded his head and cuddled against her, "mmm okay then...can you bake me cookies and make that special raman of yours?" He looked up at her and smiled causing Sakura to blush. She giggled as she ruffled his soft, luscious hair.

"of course, in fact, I'll bake you giant cookies aaaand I'll make the biggest, bestest bowl of raman you'll ever eat!"

"Haha alright!" He cheered as he pulled her in and hugged her again. Sakura's body jolted against his touch. Her body was foreign to this soft of touch and she tried her best not to twitch or squirm from the ticklish feeling she was getting all over.

"I'm glad summer's over, I didn't do anything but-oh DAMN IT!" Naruto suddenly screamed "Ahhhhhhhh I messed upppppppppppp!" he groaned.

"Hm? what's wrong?"

Naruto sat her down and groaned louder, his head was slumped in shame as he refused to look up at her, "my promise...I...I forgot to meet up with you to make up for your birthday..Sakura-chan I'm so sorry" He pouted at her and began to cry again causing Sakura to laugh.

"Naruto, it's fine! Really, I'm not too worried."

"No no it's not I promised you and...damn...you must hate me..."

Sakura gasped out loud and grabbed his ear, "Naruto Uzumaki you take back those words right now!"

"Ahh! owowowowowooww! What?!"

"How could you even consider the possibility of me hating you?! hmmmm?!"

"Ahh Sakura let go!" He groaned and pulled her hand off before pouting again, Naruto crossed his arms as he watched Sakura's cheeks puff up out of anger and tried not to laugh.

"pbbbbbt, your cheeks, hahaha" he poked them and saw she wasn't going to laugh any time soon.

He poked her cheeks again and laughed louder, "alright, I'm sorry it's just.."

"I know...just because you didn't see me over the summer doesn't mean we still can't go..right?"

"You're right!" Naruto snapped his fingers, "Ah-ha! let's go this weekend alright? Just you and me, we'll spend the whole day together! From morning to night! Okay?"

Sakura laughed, "the whoooooole day? Do you think you can handle me the entire day Uzumaki?"

"Of course!" Naruto puffed out his chest, "I'm a man! Plus, it's you, I can spend all day, everyday with you Sakura.."

Sakura's eyes widened, she felt her cheeks flushed pink, "haha really?.."

"Yeah, you're so much fun to be around." Naruto smiled as he slowly moved bits of her hair out of her blushing face. He brushed her cheek with the back of his hand, "I'm so happy when I'm around you...I..just..." he sighed again and bit down on his lip, "I feel so stupid for saying all this but, just being around you is good enough for me...and-ahh"

Sakura jumped into his arms and hugged him tightly, "ohhhhhh Naruto! mmmmmmm!" she squeezed him tightly as he chuckled, "So are you up to it? Hm, do you think you can handle me for one entire day Miss Sakura."

Sakura looked into his big blue eyes and smiled wide, "Of course...I'd like nothing more."

"Haha alright then!"

Sakura laughed as Naruto told her all the various things they'll be doing together, when suddenly something crossed his mind.

"SHE'S IN LOVE WITH YOU!"

BA-THUMP.

Gulp...Could...could she really be in...love with me...and not Sasuke?...

Naruto continued to let Sakura hug him as Sasuke's words started to settle in side of him. He felt his entire body shake, and his heart start to race, No..no it couldn't be...Sakura's always loved Sasuke, ALWAYS. Even when were kids, I had the biggest crush on her for so long growing up but she always had eyes on Sasuke like the other girls and-..

"Naruto are you okay?" Her voice cut Naruto's thoughts off and he slowly moved his hands away from her side.

"Yeah, yeah I'm fine.."

"Are you sure?..you suddenly got quiet..."

"yeah, it's nothing"

Sakura cupped his face and smiled at him, "Try not to think about what happened okay?..It's not good to worry..."

"No..it's fine, this isn't the first time Hinata and Kiba did this to me...if anything it's the last..I'm not bothered by it at all. Just tired I guess.."

"mmm I see" Sakura sat down and fiddled with her fingers, "I can only imagine what you feel right now..."

"heh, love sucks." Naruto joked as he leaned against the tree he watched her pale pink lips lift into a sad smile.

"Indeed it does...if only things were different." She sighed as she began pulling out bits of grass off the ground.

"Yeah...if only things were.." Naruto looked up at the tree branches, If only she didn't leave 6 years ago...if only I told her about my feelings earlier on...if only...if only...

...if only Sasuke hadn't married her then I...

Naruto looked at the girl before him, she sat behind her shield of glasses and smiled at him when she was clearly troubled herself.

"What?.. Do I have something on my face?" She asked as she unconsciously touched her face. Naruto chuckled as he shook his head 'no' and took her hand, "come here" he gently pulled her to his side and put his arm over her, "Neh Sakura-chan..can I ask you something?.."

"hmmm, sure! what's up?"

Naruto bit down on his lip, he wasn't sure if he would regret this or not...I can't ask her directly, or quickly...but I need to know..

"When...did you stop...?"

"Stop what?.."

Naruto closed his eyes and turned towards her, he took a deep breath and took out her glasses.

"Stop..ah hey.."

"look at me Sakura..."

"okay?..um" she looked at him confused, she blushed at the way Naruto was looking at her. He had this serious look to him and it was making her nervous.

"S-stop what?.."

"When did you.." he leaned closer and whispered into her ear, "stop loving Sasuke?..."

Sakura's eyes widened and she gasped out loud.

"uhhhhh..."

"WELL ALRIGHT, I'M JUST GOING TO DO A QUICK LOOK TO SEE IF ANY STUDENTS RAN OFF NOW,, THANKS FOR THE HEADS UP ASUMA!" Kakashi's voice was loud enough for both Naruto and Sakura to hear.

Kakashi!

They both gasped as they watched Kakashi walk closer towards them.

"Shit..if he catches us then.."

"oh man..."

"Sakura...go." "huh?" Sakura suddenly looked at Naruto who was keeping his eyes on Kakashi's movements.

"If he catches you, you're going to get detention"

"Yeah but...what about you?"

"Hehe well.." he scratched the back of his head, "I'm booked this whole month so he couldn't possibly give me more than this hehe"

Sakura held back her laugh, "Naruto.."

"So go," Hinata used to slip off through the back so.. "just go through the back and-"

"No." she said firmly, "If you get caught then...I'll..I'll get caught with you!"

Naruto's eyes slightly widened at her words as she smiled at him and then laughed.

"If you're gonna make me leave then come with me"

"Ah but-"

Sakura giggled as she put her glasses back on, "come on" she took his hand and they began to run off as fast as they can as they watched Kakashi slowly make his way to their tree.

He pretended not to look at them as he slowed his movements, I'll let them believe I didn't see them...hm ..I wonder what Sakura would've said if I hadn't purposely interrupted them...that Naruto...He doesn't know anything at all does he?

Kakashi sighed, "Ah..teenagers...they'll only want to learn when the lesson's far too late to learn...well..this is a good time to catch up on some reading!"

Naruto and Sakura safely ran back inside the school. They were both panting and laughing, "I...think we lost him"

"Oh damn that sensei!"

Sakura giggled, "but that was really fun hehe!"

"Wasn't it?! Hahahahaha!"

"Ahh..well we better head to class-"

"I'm not going."

Sakura pouted at his words, she was sure he was feeling better, "Why not.."

"I'm gonna skip today and chill on the rooftop.. maybe take a nap."

"But...aren't you..feeling better?" her voice has gotten low, did I not help at all?

"Hey...look at me.." Naruto lifted up her chin and backed her up to a wall, "Don't think it's your fault, alright?"

"But.." She lowered her head again as Naruto lifted her chin up once more and smiled.

"I just feel lazy today, trust me...I feel a lot better Sakura..."

"Really?"

Naruto leaned in and pressed his forehead against hers, "Really...thanks." he whispered, his warm breath tickled her nose and instantly made her lick her lips. She watched Naruto's eyes glance down at her lips before quickly looking at her eyes again making her blush a deep ruby red.

She covered her face from embarrassment, "Ah..you're welcome..." Her heart began to race at the sound of his low, soft chuckle, "Why are you hiding that adorable face of yours from me?"

She gasped again, adorable? Did he just say I'm adorable?! "Gahhhhhhh! stop Narutooooo!"

Naruto laughed as he suddenly wrapped his arms around her, "go to class, and text me once you get the chance.."

Sakura nodded her head as she cuddled against him, she was so happy right now. She was on top of the world, and her heart was over the moon, she just couldn't handle all the butterflies she was feeling from the little time they spent together. She loved the way he treats her. He was always so gentle and kind to her... Sakura suddenly squeezed Naruto tightly and buried her face in his chest.

"Naruto..."

Naruto chuckled again and squeezed her tightly, without trying to suck the breath out of her, "Now go before I make you stay with me.."

"Oh alright..."

Sakura let go of Naruto as he slowly let go of her, he slowly grazed his fingers down her arm as she slowly backed away from him. His fingers held onto the tips of her own as he smiled down at her, " Don't forget to text me okay?"

"Okay...try not to get caught Naruto"

He chuckled again, "Haha, I won't...promise, oh and Sakura?"

"Yeah?"

"...I hope you can answer my question next time.."

Sakura's heart skipped a beat, she was wondering why he suddenly asked such a question.

"O-okay..mm bye Naruto"

He smiled at her as she walked off...and soon ran back to the classroom and straight to her seat just before Kakashi sensei walked back in and resumed class.

After school: Konoha Hospital

Sakura walked into town and took the bus to the hospital to visit Tsunade. She wanted to thank her for the amazing, present and thought she could also get some advice from her as well. Sakura considered this woman her mother so her words were important. They counted and weighed a heavily on Sakura's decision. Sakura walked towards Tsunade's office once she got the 'okay' from the front desk.

Sakura took in a deep breath and knocked on the door.

"M-mommy?.."

Knock-knock.

"Come in!" Tsunade greeted back, and Sakura walked into the office and ran over to the blonde.

"Sakura." Tsunade smiled at Sakura as she hugged the girl tightly in her arms. She was expecting her visit, and she was pretty sure she knew exactly why Sakura was here.

They greeted each other and sat down at her desk, "So what can I help you with today Sakura?"

Tsunade pushed numbers down on her phone and spoke into the speaker, "I need cookies and apple juice in here stat. No questions."

"Yes, madam." a voice answered back.

Sakura smiled as Tsunade sat back on her chair and waited for her to talk.

"Ah, well I just came over to thank you for the present and-"

"Oh Sakura, don't be silly, I did nothing but have Kakashi deliver it to you, they want you because they know you're a fine young woman."

"uh heh...well I'm not so sure about that..." Sakura blushed and bit on her lip, it's rare for her to get compliments and she still wasn't used to it, "Well I also came for something else.."

Tsunade raised an eyebrow and waited for her to continue speaking.

Sakura cleared her throat and sat up straight, "I know this opportunity is amazing and it's a once in a lifetime chance but I'm not sure if-"

"Take this chance Sakura" Tsunade said simply.

"Yeah but-"

"Take it." She repeated, she knew this was Sakura's way of getting out of this town safely and securely. The school will be taking care of her all throughout graduation and even college if her grades remain the same, which it will because she knew how serious Sakura was about school.

"Gah, I want to believe me but..."

"But what? I don't see why you would be held back Sakura, if anything you'd be making a foolish mistake if you don't take this chance."

Sakura shook her head, "I know, know! It's just that.." she sighed and fiddled with her fingers, "I want to get away from here but...I just can't leave when my dad's job is on the line..."

Tsunade sat up and waited until the nurse dropped off the cookies and left the room to continue questioning her decision. Sakura grabbed a cookie and took a small bite.

"What do you mean? explain." Tsunade took a sip of her juice and waited.

"This whole...marriage thing with Sasuke...if I leave for school, I'm going to want a divorce because being married to him would do no good for me, it's bad as it is, and I don't want to have to hold him down with marriage knowing he could be with someone else. Not that it matters now..he's doing whatever he wants as it is, but still..." she sighed again, "I don't know..I'm afraid of cutting ties with him first, like..what if his parents decide to stop supporting dad because they're angry with me for breaking it off with Sasuke."

Tsunade sighed, "Sakura...that's not something you should worry about..."

"But I can't help it, you know.."

Tsunade felt for the girl, she cares about her useless dad regardless of the fact that her dad was a coward when it came to his family issues.

"You're father is a grown man with 2 daughters who will be considered adults in a few years, I'm sure he can handle himself...his life's already done Sakura, his young age and time has ended and right now, it's you who should be worried about the choices you're making in life."

Sakura nodded in agreement, it made sense, and she knew that but something just couldn't sit right with her.

"I'd feel bad if there's bad blood between the Uchihas and my dad, they're great people and I know that but I'm still afraid.."

"Afraid of them breaking ties with your dad or...afraid of what your mom might say?..."

Sakura winced at her question, Tsunade finally hit the nail on the spot. Sakura couldn't shake off the fact that her mother threatened her the minute after Sasuke's mother announced her proposal to Sasuke.

"What...exactly did she say?"

"Well.." Sakura took a big bite out of her cookie to avoid talking when she felt Tsunade's honey dagger eyes stare back at her.

"Ahh" She took a sip from her juice box and cleared her throat, "She sort of told me...that she won't allow me to break things off with Sasuke first because dad's company is depending on Uchiha funds..."

Tsunade scoffed in disgust, that woman made her sick to her stomach, "Remind me to never go near your mother...honestly...I'll rip her into pieces if I ever see her within 10 feet of me."

Sakura laughed as she pictured angry Tsunade beating her mother up, "Please do it, and let me watch hahaha"

Tsunade smiled at her and took her hand, "Listen sweetie, even if your mother says she won't allow it, in the end it's your life and your decision. I'm telling you right now, if you take this opportunity your mother will never be able to reach you. She won't know where you are and even if she does it won't matter because you'll be safe and sound at this school. Not everyone gets a chance like this."

Sakura smiled widely at her and squeezed her hand tightly, "You're right..."

"Ah-ha! See that's my girl! So you'll take it!"

"mmmmmmmmmmm..."

Tsunade growled and lowered her head, "Sakura..."

"Sorry, sorry! Just give me some time, I mean to let this all settle in, I want this for me, I really do...I just need to float in my own thoughts for a bit but...I'm willing to take this...there's only one more person I need approval from so.."

Tsunade's smile widened and crossed her arms, "I'm sure your father will be more than happy Sakura."

Sakura got up and pushed her chair in, "I hope so! Well..I should go now I already took up a lot of your time."

Tsunade got up and hugged her tightly, "Nonsense, you come see me anytime you want alright? I love you Sakura, don't forget that."

Sakura hugged her back just as tight, "I love you too! I'll come visit again soon!"

Tsunade let the girl go and sat back in her chair, she took a deep breath in and out and let herself drown in her thoughts when she heard a knock on her door.

Knock-knock

"Who is it?" Tsunade called out as she took out a few files to sign.

" It's the Scholarship Committee" a voice called out making Tsunade smile.

"Come in."

Tsunade laughed as she looked up to look at the person behind the voice. "Surprise visit I see? You seen quite busy these days."

"Of course, after all, I am head of the scholarship funding, but since I had time to spare I figured it'd be nice to know what the talented student's thoughts about my special offer."

Tsunade let out a big laugh, "HA! You know you're one funny woman Mikoto" she joked as she handed Sasuke's mother an apple juice box.

Mikoto grinned as she took the box and tapped the box against Tsunade's "Hm, you think so?...Well I guess having a little fun won't kill anyone...plus it's my fault as it is..."

"Cheers, to student funding!" they cheered in unison as they laughed and took a sip from their boxes.

Uchiha Compound: 5pm

Sasuke decided he would visit his parents today to get his mind off of things. He's been frustrated lately with many things...including a certain pink haired mouse. Sasuke hasn't been able to sleep well ever since he's had that disturbing dream about Sakura. He's also felt guilt weigh down on him suddenly but he doesn't understand why. He left her out in the cold many, many, times so how was leaving her alone for her birthday any different?

Sasuke honestly had no answer to that and the only thing he did know was that time passed by and little things have changed but he felt it wasn't enough to make him change his mind about her.

The mere thought of her caused Sasuke to breathe because deep, deep down inside Sasuke knew exactly why he was feeling so anxious and frustrated. He was stronger than his emotions, and he had a lot of willpower to push back even the slightest bit of that side of him. He didn't want to even think about the ideas that are locked up in his conscious and buried deep within his cold, black, heart. Sasuke takes in a deep breath as he steps inside the house. He's been walking around "randomly" at the mall but failed to buy anything that suit his taste...at least he was trying to convince himself that, that was the case.

"Mom? I'm home" he called out and stepped into the living room to see his mother on the sofa with her knitting tools out.

"Welcome back Sasuke!" Sasuke grinned at his mother as he walked over to her and softly kissed her forehead.

"I didn't know you were coming to visit us!"

"Hn, I thought I'd stop by...I missed your cooking Mom" he half joked as his mother squeezed his cheeks.

"awwwww my babyyyyy! I'm so glad you're here I actually made a few of your favorite dishes today! So we'll eat together okay?"

"Hn, alright" Sasuke watched his mother knit carefully and waited for her to ask about Sakura but she hasn't even asked about her whereabouts.

Sasuke sat quietly as he and his mother had small talk when the topic of school came up...somewhere along the line Mikoto slyly asked about Karin.

"So, I assume the whole gang is back together at school"

"Yeah...since everyone has class together except for Naruto" Sasuke smirked at the thought of Naruto always having the short end of the stick.

Mikoto laughed, "Mebuki was telling me how Karin was gushing over her birthday presents...you really went all out for the girl."

"Hn, she wouldn't have accepted any less. I don't wanna bother with troublesome stuff so I just got her what she wanted knowing she'd like it."

"I see well that's good"

Sasuke waited for Mikoto ask about what he got Sakura and again, she asked nothing...

Sasuke lays down on the longer sofa and closes his eyes when flashes of that nightmare come back. He sits up quickly and starts breathing heavily.

"Sasuke-kun?! Are you alright?" Sasuke took in a deep breath and clenched his fists...this nightmare was starting to haunt him to the point of no return. He looked at his mother and suddenly felt the need to open up to her about it. Sasuke gave it some thought and decided he'd take a different approach about it.

"Kaa-san.."

"Yes?"

"Can I ask you something?"

"Sure thing Sasuke, I'm all ears." Mikoto set her knitting needles down and turned towards her son, knowing she was finally going to get a look into her oblivious son's heart.

Kizashi's Office: 5pm

"You may go in now Sakura-san"

Sakura thanked the front desk and walked over to her father's office. She knocked twice before opening the door, "Dad? I'm coming in"

"Sakura, come in, come in" her father welcomed her in happily as he got up and walked over to give her a tight hug.

"Dad..." Sakura whispered as she hugged her father tightly, Damn it this is going to be harder than I thought..

"So what's with the surprise visit for?"

"Ah..well I just thought I'd visit you..and you know catch up and stuff."

Kizashi smiled wide enough to show all his premature wrinkles. Sakura took a good look at her father. Though he looks tired with dark circles, and wrinkles under his eye he looks happy.

She bit down on her lip..her heart was clenching.

Goodness...how am I going to do this?...Okay Sakura deep breaths.

Sakura took in a deep breath as her father lead them to the comfy chairs near his desk.

"Come let's sit and talk my dear" Her dad patted a chair in front of him as he sat down and smiled again at her.

Sakura instantly smiled back, she had no idea her father can smile this much around her. The thought didn't sit so well inside of her. In fact, it made Sakura all that more queasy. She wanted to back out and forget about the whole deal when she suddenly remembered Tsunade's words..

Right, Sakura this is for you girl, just do what's best for you...come on you can do this! Show some backbone!

"So what exactly did you want to talk about Sakura?"

"Um..."

"Is it money? Daddy actually saved up some money for you...if you want I can give that to you-"

"Ah no, no thanks dad I still have the money you gave me from before."

"Hm, well how about I get you a snack while we talk huh?" Sakura held her dad's arm to sit him back down.

"No dad it's fine, I'm not hungry" she laughed, if I eat now I'll just throw up all over the place. Sakura shivered before shaking her head. She couldn't waste anymore time.

"Um well..dad theres actually something I wanted to tell you" She paused and bit her lip, "A few weeks ago...something came in the mail for me."

Technically, Kakashi delivered it but Sakura didn't mention that part, it's best to leave details like that out right now.

"Mhm...so what of it?"

"Well..it was a scholarship...to...this...private...school."

Sakura watched her father's expression as it changed ever so slightly.

"Ah well..why don't you take a look." Sakura handed the letter to her father.

BA-THUMP BA-THUMP BA-THUMP

Sakura's heart was beating loudly, as fast. She felt herself shaking from speaking just a few words to him. Her mouth went dry the second her father looked up to smile at her. Sakura's eyes widened when she saw the sadness suddenly flash in his green pools.

"So..so what do y-you think dad?..." She clenched her hands tightly on her uniform skirt.

"It's an amazing offer Sakura.." Sakura watched her dad's complexion slightly pale, he had a sad tone to his voice and it was breaking her heart.

"This is a lifetime chance to go to school like this. With the economy being the way it is nowadays...you're very lucky to get such an offer.

SIGHHHHHHHHHHHH Sakura let out a breath she didn't realize she was holding.

"Y-yeah.."

It was quiet...she wasn't sure what to say next.

"Take it."

BA-THUMP

"What..?"

"Accept the offer Sakura." her father said simply as he looked down at the paper, "it's too great to give up."

"REALLY?!" Sakura screamed in disbelief. She jumped from her seat and stared wide-eyed at her dad.

"Can I..Can I really go?!"

Kizashi got up and walked over to her he smiled sadly as he squeezed her shoulders firmly, "Yes, I think you should take this and go to school happily"

"Oh..my..." Her legs went weak, she felt tears coming, "THANK YOU SO MUCH DADDY!" Sakura jumped as she hugged her dad tightly letting her happy tears stream down.

"Thank you so so so so so so much!"

Kizashi chuckled as he held her tightly and put her down again, "You silly girl."

Sakura was giggling out of joy as she jumped in place when she remembered something else...

Sasuke...

Sakura gulped, "Um..Dad there's something else I need to tell you."

Kizashi took a step back and looked at her.

"What is it Sakura?"

"Dad I..." She squeezed her eyes and clenched down on her uniform skirt. "Dad I'm going to take this offer from the school and.." She took a deep breath and looked straight into his eyes, "I want a divorce from Sasuke..."

Sakura watched as her father's eyes grew big and wide, he gasped out loud as his complexion completely paled.

Sakura began to cry but she suddenly braver though she was still shaken up, "I want a divorce from Sasuke Dad, and I'm going to get one! I can't live with him anymore!" Sakura was screaming, "He's so horrible to me Dad, I'm tired of this life, I'm leaving Sasuke!"

"Sakura...what are you saying.." Kizashi squeezed the spot over his chest as his breathing became shallow.

"Dad I'm not asking for your permission right now, I'm telling you what I'm going to do and-!"

" Haruno-sama, I've got terrible news! S-someone has taken all of our money, and investments out of the company's shareholder's bank!"

"What..?" Kizashi began to sweat...he was losing his balance.

The young man gulped, "They're telling us to either find a way to solve this or file for bankruptcy..."

"AHHHHH!" Kizashi screamed out loud as he

held down on his chest.

"Dad?!"

"Haruno-sama?!"

Kizashi fell to the floor with his hand over his heart.

"DAD!?" Sakura screamed as she knelt down in front of her dad and began to shake him.

"Dad...wake up dad!...come on please... DADDY WAKE UP!" She was screaming to the top of her lungs, "SOMEONE CALL THE AMBULANCE QUICKLY! DAD!"

Uchiha Compound

"Mom..did something happen to me as a child?.."

Sasuke watched his mother's eyes slightly widen before recorving back to normal. She sat closer to him and stroked his hair, she suddenly had a serious look to her face.

"Why do you ask...did something happen honey?"

Sasuke looked down at his hands and then looked back at her, "I'm not sure...but I can't remember certain things... it's like my memory's blocked out...and everytime I try to remember I start getting headaches..."

Mikoto suddenly looked concerned, "Do...you remember anything in particular?.."

"No.." he got quiet and moved his hands near his mouth, "I don't but...a few weeks ago I've had extremely vivid dreams...I'm starting to wonder if those are memories but..."

"But what Sasuke? Tell mommy..."

"There's this one dream...no nightmare..I had a nightmare and I so I'm confused about what it means...something like that...couldn't have been a memory right?"

"What did you have a dream about?.."

Sasuke looked at his mother with great fear in his eyes, he gulped, "I uh...had a dream that..Karin ..."

"Karin what?.."

"Karin hurt...Sakura.."

"She did?...How Sasuke? Tell mommy.."

Sasuke's head was slightly aching, "Mom..answer my question first.."

"Sasuke honey I can't until you tell me what you saw in your dream-"

"Perhaps it wasn't a dream at all...little brother."

Sasuke looked up to see Itachi walk into the living room.

"Itachi don't say things like that, it'll scare him."

"Well reality is scary mother and-"

ring ring ring

"I'll get that" Mikoto walked into the kitchen where she last had the phone as Itachi sat next to Sasuke.

"What...what do you know Itachi..."

Itachi smirked, "Something...nothing...anything...everything."

Sasuke glared at him and grabbed his shirt and pulled him closer, "I asked you what you know."

Itachi flicked his brother's forehead causing Sasuke to let go, "Do you really wanna know?.."

"Yes...I do."

"Hn, it's too bad I won't tell you."

Sasuke got up and glared angrily at his brother, "Why?!"

Before Itachi had the chance to even reply back, the boys heard their mother gasp out loud.

"Mom?!" they called out in unison as Mikoto came running back to the living room in sheer panic.

"Sakura's father..Ki-Kizashi had a heart attack!"

NINJA: R #I$! #NRI# #$I! #$ ~ DRAAAAAAAAAAMAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA! Hey guys! :D Sorry for the late chapter, v-v thank you all for the kind words and being patient with me! :) I hope to upload the next chapter asap since I'm on a roll at the moment! ^_^ let's talk soon guys! xx