Hello all! Sorry about the delay in updating. This chapter just wasn't willing to be written. Hope you enjoy!
Once again, I must say 'thank you' to my amazing betas, ScaryRei and Shy Tan'ith. The time they take to comb through these chapters is truly appreciated.
Disclaimer: See chapter 1.
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You Gotta Go There To Come Back
Chapter 13: Crush
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I like to feel the crush it makes me feel alive
To have you in my life, than not it just feels right
And when the sun goes down the moonlight paints the night
That's when the sleeping dog awakes and comes alive
-Crush by Stereophonics
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Sakura woke up slowly, blinking against the harsh sun beaming into her eyes. As her vision focused, she smiled softly at the man next to her. Her hand was still entwined with Kakashi's and during the night they had shifted even closer together.
She hated to do it, but nature was urgently calling, so she gently disentangled her hand from Kakashi's, unwilling to wake the sleeping ninja. As soon as his hand was free, he gave a sleepy sigh and curled his hand under his chest. Sakura desperately wanted to squeal at how freakin' adorable he was like that, but bit her tongue to keep silent.
She scrambled up to take care of her morning business, cleaning her face and brushing her teeth before quietly starting to make some tea. It wasn't long after that her other friends woke up, in a sort of chain reaction. One would get up and as they took care of their morning routines, the next would be waking up and so on.
Sakura started rummaging around to get breakfast ready, but Ino steered her back to her seat at the kitchen table. "I've got it, Forehead. You made an amazing dinner last night, so this one's on me." The pink-headed woman gratefully took her seat and sipped at the tea in front of her.
Naruto peered at the light amber liquid in her cup and jutted his chin towards her. "You don't like coffee anymore? I remember you saying you 'had' to have a cup in the morning."
"Coffee can deepen a person's voice, so I'm not supposed to have too much of it. I indulge in it only once in a while now." Sakura explained as she warmed her cool hands on the ceramic mug.
Breakfast was a lively affair. Ino babbled on about all the latest gossip as Yamato and Sakura listened eagerly. Kakashi snickered at his kohai. Yamato was so girly about things like gossip. The other three men listened, but just because it was the only sound in the room.
The silver-haired jounin watched Sakura discreetly. He wasn't quite sure why he held her hand the previous night, but he enjoyed it and would do it all again if given the chance. He was beginning to wonder if Sakura was going to admit to being in love with him. Sure she had only been home for five days, but she was never shy about her feelings. If she loved you, you were going to know about it. Then again, maybe she had matured in that respect as well. Kakashi was hoping she had. While he wanted to pursue a relationship with her, he didn't want her judgment to be clouded with dreams and fantasies. If the relationship was a success, he wanted it to be because she enjoyed his company and cared about him. It had to be real; not a product of fanciful daydreams or a vision of a man that didn't really exist.
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Sakura could only sit there, completely embarrassed, as her guests eagerly watched one of her movies. Yes, she could admit that she was a decent actress, but it still made her uncomfortable to watch herself. It didn't bother her if they watched; she just didn't want to be present when they did.
She chanced a glance at Kakashi, who seemed enthralled as he watched her perform the debut dance in the geisha movie. A slight smile spread across her lips, pleased that he was interested in a film without "Icha Icha" in the title. As her movie-self bent backwards at the end of the dance Ino whistled. "Kunoichi training came in handy there, didn't it?"
A light pink spread over the young woman's cheeks. "A little bit, yes."
Sakura was never so happy to hear her doorbell ring as she was in that moment. She bolted from the living room, leaving her friends to watch the movie without her. Koji's grinning face met her as she opened the door. "Koji? What's up? I thought you were going to be on conference calls all day today."
The manager merely clamped his hands on her shoulders. "The people from the magazine are arriving today. Let's go greet them, beautiful."
Naruto's voice came from behind her. "You're working?!"
There was a slight screech as he startled the pink-haired woman. "Geez, Naruto! Don't sneak up on me like that," she scolded as she held a hand to her pounding heart. She took in the boyish pout on his face and softened. "It's only one photo shoot. It'll take a day at most."
Koji smirked at the confused faces that had gathered behind Sakura. "You didn't tell them, did you?"
She chewed her bottom lip for a second before answering. "Well, it's not exactly something that you would just blurt out in normal conversation."
"You're a celebrity, love. You don't have normal conversations." Koji adjusted his glasses before diverting his attention to the other people in the house. "Sakura was named "Most Beautiful" by the magazine that publishes that issue every year. Her photo shoot is in three days."
There was a small commotion behind the blushing woman, who merely turned to cast a shy and guilty glance at her companions. Yamato, ever the logical one, tilted his head. "If you have three days, why are they here now?"
Sakura opened her mouth to speak, however Sai jumped in. "They probably need to find the location for the session. They may also need to see how the lighting is in various areas. For instance, would it be better to photograph her during dusk, dawn or daylight?"
There was a brief nod from Sakura, who then opened her mouth to speak, only to be interrupted.
"Do you guys want to come along?" To Sakura's surprise, Koji was the one to invite them.
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Sakura knocked on her shishou's door, knowing the group from the magazine would have checked in with her first. "Enter!"
Koji entered first, shaking hands with the photographer standing in the middle of the room. "Kawamura-san, always a pleasure to see you."
"Ah, Tanaka-san, likewise. Now, where is..." he trailed off as he noticed Sakura standing behind Koji. "Oh my dear. You are even lovelier in person! It will be an absolute joy to work with you."
Sakura smiled gently as they shook hands. "Thank you. I've heard great things about your work, so I'm looking forward to it as well."
Koji took note of the office, devoid of any assistants or stylists. "Where is the rest of your team?"
"I sent them ahead to the inn. Poor things were dead on their feet after our trip here." Kawamura surveyed the ninja standing around Sakura curiously.
Sakura blinked for a second before realizing what was wrong. "Oh! I apologize. Kawamura-san, these are some of my friends. Hatake Kakashi, Yamato, Sai, Uzumaki Naruto and Yamanaka Ino," she gestured to each one as she introduced them.
"Pleasure to meet you all." He nodded at the ninja who returned the greeting. "I would like to take a moment to outline our time frame here. Today, we will obviously be resting. Tomorrow and the day after, a few assistants and I will be scouting the village for a location. Sakura, you will see the stylists a few times for fittings and things of that nature. They will contact you about the times. On day three, we will meet at the appointed place, do your photo shoot, and that will be that! The issue featuring you will be on stands the following week." He yawned slightly. "I'm sorry to be so abrupt, but I'm exhausted. It was nice to meet you and I'll see you in a few days!"
Tsunade grinned at her apprentice once the photographer was gone. "Well, seems you'll be busy the next few days."
Sakura shook her head with a tiny smile. "It's not so bad."
"Sakura, I was thinking about your medic skills earlier today. I would like you to assist in the hospital for a few days while you're here. I know you're leaving at the end of the month to finish your tour, but I would like to make sure your skills haven't suffered during your absence. After all, famous or not, you are still one of my soldiers."
"Yes, shishou."
There was a little whine behind the young woman, who turned to see Naruto and Ino pouting. "You're leaving, again?!"
"I need to finish out my tour. I fully intend to return once that's over, though," Sakura reassured her friends. Her eyes suddenly lit up and she spun to face Tsunade.
"Tsunade-shishou, would it be alright if they accompany me for the rest of the tour?"
The Hokage peered at the five shinobi behind her apprentice, their eager expressions letting her know the answer they were hoping for. "It has been rather peaceful lately." She laced her fingers together as she thought. "I guess they're entitled to a vacation. Hatake took a vacation a while back, but he was a few years overdue." There were a few moments of tense silence and then Tsunade sighed in resignation. "That's fine." There were a few cheers before she raised a hand. "However, they must agree to rush back if they're needed."
Kakashi nodded. "Understood, Hokage-sama."
"Then you all may leave with Sakura when her stay here is up."
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Hiro, Temari, Gaara and Kankuro stood at the village gates, preparing to head back to Snow and Suna, respectively.
Sakura pouted cutely at her friends. "I can't believe you guys are leaving already!"
Gaara shrugged, but a smirk tilted his lips. "I have to get back to running the village. And these two need to help keep the council and the ninja in order."
Temari grinned widely. "I love scaring the crap out of shinobi who think they're hot shit."
Sakura laughed loudly. "I'm sure you do!"
Hiro embraced her before explaining why he was leaving. "I have to take care of some other business back home. But I'll be here to get you when the tour starts back up again."
Temari pulled her in for a hug. "Go get your Copy Ninja. I'm pretty certain he's interested, so all you need to do is turn on the charm and flirt like your life depended on it."
"Thank you, Temari. I'll do my best."
After hugging Gaara and getting a final spin from Kankuro, she headed back to her Konoha friends who were waiting a few yards away.
Temari yelled over at her. "Good luck with your photo session!"
Kankuro added, "Knock 'em dead, gorgeous!"
Sakura merely blew a few kisses and yelled back, "Love you!"
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Sakura, Naruto, Ino and Kakashi ambled along Konoha's dusty streets towards the sakura grove on the other side of town. Sakura's mood had soured slightly since leaving the Sand siblings and the Konoha group just figured she missed them already. "I can't believe they chose that location! Of all the places they could pick...yes, it's pretty. But isn't it a little cheesy considering my name and features?!" There was a collective sudden understanding of her irritated mood. Sakura ranted as her friends simply listened, knowing not to interrupt as she vented.
There were a few more peeved huffs from the young woman before they neared the picturesque grouping of trees. It was a gorgeous place. Packed dirt pathways wound through the trees, which were situated amongst rich green carpets of grass. The cherry blossoms were in full bloom; the pink and white flowers adorned the trees while the escaped petals floated leisurely through the air before dusting the ground.
The ninjas accompanying Sakura watched with interest as her face switched from one of frustration to a pleasant smile when a young woman from the photographer's group scurried up to greet them. "Sakura-san! My name is Miyami. It's a pleasure to meet you. I will be your assistant during the photo session today. If there is anything I can do for you, please let me know. Would you like something to drink? Perhaps something to eat?" she rattled off the information quickly.
After a moment of processing what was said, Sakura waved a hand. "No, I'm fine. Thank you, Miyami." The small woman turned to leave before Sakura addressed the squad of ninja behind her. "What about you guys?"
There was a chorus of 'no's but Miyami blushed slightly, realizing the ninja were to be treated just as well as the celebrity.
Naruto arched his brow at Sakura. "Do they always fawn over you like that?"
There was a roll of green eyes before she nodded. "The first few times I was flattered, but now it just feels like I'm being smothered."
"Sakura! There you are. The tent on the right is wardrobe, the tent on the left is hair and make-up. They'll have a robe for you to put on for hair and make-up in that tent. Go ahead and put it on. The stylists should be here soon." Koji gave her a gentle push in the direction of the tent.
"I'll be right back. Don't go anywhere!" she called to her Konoha friends.
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She returned a moment later with a white satin robe on, tied at the waist. Her hair was down, the shimmering pink strands contrasted beautifully with the robe. Her make-up hadn't been done yet, but Kakashi thought she was stunning.
The Copy Nin watched, a bit smitten, as the wind blew. Sakura put up a hand to stop a wayward lock of hair from blowing into her face as her head tilted down slightly. She closed her eyes and smiled softly as she breathed in the scent of the petals and blossoms flowing around her.
Kakashi wasn't the only one affected. The photographer quickly began snapping photos while Sakura was unaware. In that moment, her natural beauty was mesmerizing. Sakura didn't need fancy clothes and products to make her irresistible.
With the wind rustling the trees, Sakura didn't hear the soft clicking of the camera until the fifth shot. At once, her eyes snapped open and the spell was broken. "I'm sorry, Sakura-san. It was just one of those magical moments that I had to capture." Kawamura apologized for catching the young star off guard.
"Oh, it's fine. I was just surprised is all."
A small army of people swarmed onto Sakura from out of nowhere, each one babbling about styles and outfits as she was pushed into one of the tents.
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After seeing how breathtaking Sakura could be sans make-up, Kawamura decided they should go for a natural look. Sakura's hair was styled into the messy waves that people loved so much on her. She was given a pair of boot cut lightly colored blue jeans and a dark green fitted shirt with three-quarter length sleeves. The dark green of the fabric was a perfect match for her eyes, making them stand out more than they already did.
She sat to talk quietly to Kakashi for a moment and Kawamura started to click again while she wasn't paying attention. The images appeared on the enlarging screen next to Kawamura and Koji sighed. Her eyes were shining with love and happiness; the tilt to her lips just right. The manager came to a decision as he looked at her. Sakura had never looked at him like that, had never even come close. The warmth that appeared in her eyes was reserved solely for the jounin sitting next to her on the other side of the clearing.
She was whisked away to be changed again and when she returned, Koji made his way over to Kakashi while Sakura was distracted. With the stylists and Kawamura fussing over her, she wouldn't see him speaking to the silver-haired ninja.
Koji sidled up next to Kakashi, the ninja's silver brow arching in question. It was no secret that the two weren't exactly friends, so why did Koji approach him? "I just wanted to tell you, that I'm not going to argue with you about Sakura anymore. I love her deeply, but if you make her happy, then she should be with you. I won't be selfish anymore."
Kakashi looked wide-eyed at the shorter man. "Thank you, Tanaka-san."
"Please, just Koji is fine." He adjusted his glasses and continued to speak. "I knew from the beginning that I was setting myself up for heartbreak. Before our first date, she told me she was in love with you. But Temari told her she needed to date to see if you were what she really wanted. That was easier said than done, considering her new profession. Too many people would gravitate toward her just because she's so famous, not because of who she truly is. That's why I'm the only one she ever dated." Koji exhaled loudly to ease his nerves and fidgeted with his glasses again. "Sorry, I'm rambling. I knew it was a bad idea to date her when she had already given her heart. But I was just so drawn to her. I was hoping she would open her heart to me, fall in love with me and forget all about you." He gave a little chuckle. "Obviously, that didn't happen. That's okay, though. If she's happy, then I'm happy. Treat her right, Kakashi-san." Koji clapped him on the back in a friendly manner, then stepped away to converse with the photographer.
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Sakura grumbled as the group made their way back into town. "I'm so tired! Being poked and prodded and ambushed by stylists is not a fun way to spend your day."
Ino gushed at her. "But Sakura, you looked so pretty! I wish I had people to fuss over me." She pouted, with her bottom lip protruding.
"Trust me. It's not that great once you realize what's involved. Plus, it's a little disheartening to know those people wouldn't give a rat's ass about you if you weren't famous. Not only that, but do you realize I'll have to wash my hair three times to get all this goop out?"
Kakashi chuckled at her. "Ah, the price of stardom."
Sakura shook her head in amusement before turning down her street. "I'll see you guys later. I'm going to try to clean all this junk out of my hair and then sleep."
She was almost at her door when a cloud of smoke appeared in front of her. "Kakashi! Are you trying to cause me to have heart failure?"
The crease in his eye melted her anger immediately and Sakura silently cursed him for having that power over her. He reached forward to gently twirl a lock of wavy hair around his finger as his gaze locked with hers. Suddenly breathless, Sakura could only watch stunned as he leaned closer so his lips were next to her ear. "You did look beautiful today, Sakura." His masked lips brushed her cheek lightly as he spoke and when coupled with the deep rumble of his voice, Sakura's mind shut down. Before she could utter even a squeak, Kakashi had disappeared again.
Wide-eyed, she fanned herself to reduce the blush as she ventured into her house. Kakashi smirked from his position a few roofs over. "I hope you're sure about me, Sakura. Because I have no intention of losing this battle."
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Just because Sakura was home didn't mean Kakashi was going to give up his tea time with her feisty grandma. It was earlier than usual, but once their friendship was established, he was free to show up whenever he had time. He rapped a familiar rhythm on the large door of Aiko's house and grinned widely as the sprightly old woman greeted him. "Ah, Kakashi! Come on in, sweetie! We're just in the kitchen making a pie."
The man briefly wondered who 'we' entailed before he stepped into the kitchen. Her back was to him, but that pink hair was a dead giveaway. A teasing smirk tilted his lips as he purposely deepened his voice. "Hello, Sakura."
There was a loud crash as she pushed the rolling pin too hard, causing it to knock over several metal bowls. The following squeal was rewarding as well. After their encounter a couple days prior, she was hesitant to look at him. Her fantasies and dreams had been exceptionally risqué after his flirtations and she was certain the elite shinobi would be all too able to read her expressions. "Shouldn't you be a little more on guard, Miss Kunoichi?"
Trying to cover her desire, she directed a pretty glare his way. The look was enough to make him sigh dreamily, if he was prone to doing such a thing. "I didn't think I'd be attacked in my grandmother's kitchen!"
He tsk'd at her. "Sakura-chan, you should know that an attack could happen anywhere."
Green eyes narrowed more as she turned slowly to face the jounin fully, hands coming up to rest on her hips. Kakashi's eye was crinkled in its customary fashion, but a challenging glint was unmistakably present.
Aiko wasn't sure if she should leave and give them some privacy or step in to preserve her granddaughter's virtue. It sounded like an argument, but there was a strong vibe passing between the two and the old woman felt a bit like a third wheel. A determined look crossed her features and she marched over to the island in her kitchen, pretending to be oblivious to the blatant flirting. "Okay, kiddos. Let's get this pie made!"
One hour later, they poked at the blackened lump. Sakura sighed before glancing at the Copy Ninja from the corner of her eye. "I told you the heat was too high."
"Well, excuse me for following directions. I did just what the cookbook said," Kakashi retorted as he tapped at the exposed page.
Aiko dumped the 'pie' in the trash. "If you did, then the cookbook was wrong." She wiped her hands off and removed her apron. "You kids take another shot at it if you want. This old lady needs a rest."
Sakura swiftly began to mix ingredients into a large bowl. "I don't know about you, but my stomach is ready for pie."
Kakashi chuckled and started to prepare the filling. "I agree. Round two it is."
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They stood side by side, rolling the dough for their third attempt at pie making. They were now convinced the cookbook was a load of garbage since it wasn't working out at all. So, the two agreed to just 'wing' it.
Sakura started to giggle at seemingly nothing and Kakashi eyed her strangely. "What?"
"This is just humorous to me. The great and feared Hatake Kakashi, legendary Copy Ninja, making a pie in an old lady's kitchen." She smiled at him. "Sounds a little silly, don't you think?"
A ponderous look entered the jounin's eye. "I could use this as one of my late excuses. Failed pies are a serious problem, you know."
Sakura's mouth gaped open. "I KNEW it was all rubbish! All of those excuses are just lame stories you made up."
"Now, now, Sakura. Each one of those stories has actually happened, maybe just not when I used them."
Sakura grew silent and Kakashi could practically see the wheels turning in her head as she thought back to his previous excuses. "So...did you really save all those children from a burning orphanage?"
There was a slight bob of his silver hair as he nodded. "When I was seventeen. I was on my way back from border duty when I smelled smoke. I followed the smell to the orphanage. The smoke was too thick for ordinary shinobi to see anything so they were waiting for some of the Hyuuga and Uchiha to show up and locate the children. However, since those family compounds were on the opposite side of the village, it would have been too late by the time they got there. So, I used my sharingan and rushed in. All the children were saved, end of story."
Sakura felt a sting in her eyes as she regarded the brave man in front of her. Kakashi shook his head at the look in her eyes. "Don't go getting all sappy on me. It was a long time ago and anyone in my position would have done the same thing."
Unable to stop herself, she flung her arms around Kakashi's torso and squeezed him in a tight hug. "Downplay it all you want, but what you did was amazing." She pulled back and quickly turned to her dough, suddenly embarrassed at her actions.
Kakashi ran a soothing hand over her hair and back and Sakura looked over to see the easy crease in his eye. If he wasn't bothered by her spontaneous burst of affection, then she shouldn't be bothered by it either.
A wicked glint entered Sakura's eyes as she casually glanced at the older man next to her. There were two white handprints on his back where she had hugged him and an idea occurred to her. She grabbed a tiny handful of flour and flung it at Kakashi, dusting his dark blue uniform. Kakashi paused, but didn't look over at the giggling woman. Deciding that retribution was in order, he picked up the bowl of flour next to him and rapidly fired a few small scoops of it at Sakura. She gasped loudly, surprised at his action but then smirked devilishly. Kakashi's own lopsided smile widened as Sakura raised the bag of flour. As she moved to dump it over his hair, she found her own vision obscured by white as the lightning fast shinobi stole the bag and dumped it over her head.
"Kakashi!"
She lunged to grab him but her feet slipped on the powder covering the floor. Trying to be chivalrous the silver-headed man tried to catch her, but just ended up going down with her in a tangle of limbs.
Sakura managed to straddle Kakashi and started to rub handfuls of flour into his messy silver bush. After a moment of looking at him curiously, she burst into laughter and Kakashi quirked a brow at the odd behavior. "They're the same color!" she chortled.
Kakashi flipped them so he was above her and began to tickle mercilessly. "What was that again, Sakura? Something about my hair? Are you trying to say it's white?"
She began to flail, gasping that she couldn't breathe in between her bouts of laughter. "I can't breathe. I can't breathe. I can't breathe." Although she was still giggling, Kakashi could hear her intakes of air.
"Nice try, Sakura."
"Okay, okay! It's silver! It's silver!" she cried, hoping her admission would stop him. She would have tried to catch his hands, but there was no way she was as fast as the man above her.
He sat there straddling her, hands on his hips as he grinned triumphantly down at her. His smug attitude didn't last long as Sakura flipped them again. "You jerk!" She slapped him playfully a few times and managed to reign in her giggles.
As the pair's chuckles died down, everything froze. Time slowed to a stop and there was no sound except for their slightly labored breathing. They were both a mess with flour coating their clothes, hair and faces. But none of that mattered. Their gazes locked and one of Kakashi's hands reached up to wipe a smear off Sakura's cheek while the other began to creep around Sakura's back, intending to pull her down for a kiss. Just then, Aiko's pitter-pattering steps sounded in the hallway and the two quickly broke apart, the moment over.
Sakura blushed as she glanced at Kakashi, who was slightly pink in the cheeks also. An embarrassed smile escaped Sakura's lips and Kakashi's eye crinkled as he rubbed the back of his head.
"What the hell happened to my kitchen?!" The old woman's eyes frantically darted around her kitchen before landing on the two ninja. "And what happened to you two?!" Aiko's look of shock was priceless.
Sakura's burning cheeks deepened as she smiled at her grandmother. "The pies weren't coming along so well."
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Ino squealed in delight as she walked home from the hospital with Sakura. "Ooooh, Forehead! You should have kissed him! Don't hesitate, just do it!"
There was a loud sigh from the pink-haired medic. Ino had been hounding her all day with 'advice' after Sakura told her about the incident in Aiko's kitchen. "I told you, Ino-pig. I don't want to rush things with Kakashi. He's a private person and I'm worried if pushed, he'll clam up. Plus, I just think it'll be so much sweeter if we slowly build our relationship."
Ino huffed. "Have it your way. With you two tip-toeing around each other, you'll be lucky to get a kiss before you're fifty. And don't even get me started on when you'll get him to f-" Ino's speech was halted by Sakura's hand.
"Just shut up, Pig."
Ino pried Sakura's hand away with a triumphant smirk. "Fine, fine."
Of course, Kakashi chose that moment to stroll around the corner and almost bump into the two medics. Sakura was fighting the urge to bolt. After what Ino had said, Sakura was picturing Kakashi doing all sorts of wonderfully naughty things to her. She was sure by this point her skin matched her hair and her eyes were in danger of bugging completely out of her head.
"Hello, Kakashi." Sakura cringed as her voice squeaked pathetically, while Ino snickered and Kakashi raised an eyebrow.
"Hello, Sakura. Ino." He nodded slightly. "How was your first day back at the hospital?"
Comfortable with the familiar and safe topic, the heat receded from Sakura's cheeks and her vocal chords began to function properly. "Great! It's just like I never left."
Ino butted in. "Except that she's better now. I really don't get it. How do you leave for five years, not do active duty, and come back a better medic than when you left?"
"Well, it's not like I sat around and did nothing, you know. I trained my chakra and studied all my medical texts. I trained in combat techniques on Koyuki-hime's property. I did what I needed to do."
Ino waved a hand, eager to get out of there and give the two some alone time. "Whatever. I need to get to the flower shop. Later, guys."
Sakura watched her leave, feeling the butterflies start in again. Alone with the man she had almost kissed, she wasn't sure how to act. "Um...I hate to run, but after dealing with the sick and injured all day I need a shower."
Kakashi nodded, equally unsure himself. He had certainly kissed women before, but a woman he was intent on having a true relationship with was a different matter. "Sure, sure. See you later, Sakura."
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Sakura finished boiling her rice and set the small pot on her table, surveying the food with a frown. It was the first time she had been alone in weeks. It was the first time she had cooked for just herself in months. It certainly showed, since she had made way too much food for just one person.
As she took her first bite, her mind wandered to that incident with Kakashi two days ago. He was going to kiss her, she was sure of that. But it was too soon. She wanted them to get to know each other again, to reconnect on a friendly level before taking it that extra step.
There was a knock at Sakura's door and she frowned slightly. Someone was disrupting her long overdue solitude. The frown disappeared and a bright smile replaced it when she saw Kakashi standing on the other side of the door. He rubbed the back of his neck sheepishly. "Um, could we talk for a minute?"
"Sure. Come on in. Would you like some food? I just finished making dinner."
Kakashi's demeanor brightened at the mention of Sakura's home-cooked meal. "I would love some."
Sakura moved to grab an extra place setting and served Kakashi his dinner. "I haven't cooked for just myself in ages and ended up with more than I could eat."
Kakashi took a bite and his eye glazed over slightly. "This is so good."
Sakura giggled and the two fell into a comfortable silence as they ate.
Once full, the two sat on Sakura's couch. "What was it you wanted to talk about, Kakashi?"
"Well, about that day in Aiko's kitchen...I wanted to apologize for any forward actions." Kakashi had wanted to kiss her; he very much wanted to kiss her. Only after they had been interrupted did he realize it would have been too soon. He knew he was very attracted to her, he knew she was still highly intelligent and generous. But they needed to rekindle a true friendship before they went down that road.
Sakura nodded with a small smile. "It's quite alright. We both got a little carried away."
Kakashi knew he was the older man she had been in love with, but he wanted to hear it from her. Sitting here on her couch, talking about an almost kiss, seemed as good a time as any to bring it up. "Sakura, about that older man you were in love with, would you tell me who it was? I've been given a lot of hints and want to see if I'm correct."
The blush was bright, covering her entire face and traveling down her neck. Maybe she could just beat around the bush and evade the question. "The operative word there is 'was'. I was in love with an older man, but it's been five years since the two of us had any contact. I want to get to know him again before pursuing anything. If something is going to happen, I want it to be real. I can't do casual or a fling with this person."
Kakashi smirked slightly, relieved she wanted the same thing he did but she hadn't answered him. "You're avoiding the question." His expression turned serious as he gazed intently at Sakura. It seemed the direct approach would work best with her. "Sakura, was it me?"
She couldn't lie to him. Besides that, a small part of her wanted him to know, wanted to get that weight off her chest. If he knew, he could either reject her now or let her know if he was interested. Knowing was certainly better than not knowing. "Yes." Her voice was strong and confident, a definite contrast to how she felt.
Kakashi's charcoal eye crinkled as he smiled lightly. "That's what I thought." He leaned over and embraced the startled young woman. "Let's see where things go."
Sakura's head tilted curiously as Kakashi strode to the door. He turned back and winked at her, something only someone who had known him so long would be able to decipher, before opening the door. "Goodnight, Sakura."
A silly smile that made her cheeks ache spread across her lips. "I didn't get rejected." Normally, this would not be the most optimistic thought. However, with Kakashi, things were never that normal.
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Two weeks sped by peacefully. Between her shifts at the hospital, team training and spending time with her friends, Sakura was beginning to settle back into the familiar pace of her old life. She and Kakashi had engaged in subtle flirting, which was all Sakura wanted at the moment. More often than not, lunchtime was spent at Ichiraku with Naruto. Her shifts at the hospital were filled with 'welcome home' gifts and cards; some from patients she had treated years ago and some from people who only knew of her because she was the Hokage's apprentice. Life back in Konoha had been wonderful. The kunoichi regretted the fact that she had to leave again so soon.
The arrival of her entourage from Snow was a bittersweet moment. She was excited to see her friends and the people she had met on her journey, however she wasn't ready to leave home. It had been refreshing and grounding to be in Konoha, to just be Haruno Sakura, to just be the Hokage's apprentice, to just be a kunoichi again. In one short week, she would be on the road once more to finish her tour.
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Sakura laughed and danced and chatted with the friends she would be leaving behind. She had rented out the little pub from Yamada-san again, hoping a farewell party would make her departure easier. A hesitant tap on her shoulder caused her to spin rapidly. "Oh, Hinata! I'm glad you could make it." Her bright smile slipped a little as a thought occurred to her. "I'm sorry I'll be stealing Naruto for a few months."
Hinata smiled brightly. "No worries. I'm actually headed out of town for a few months myself. There are Hyuuga branch families in other countries that I need to visit and inform them that Neji-kun is succeeding father as clan head. It's lucky that it coincides with the time Naruto will be gone."
Sakura sighed in relief. "I don't feel so bad now. You have no idea how guilty I was starting to feel! The idiot finally starts to date you, and now I'm taking him with me."
Hinata giggled at her. "Don't feel guilty. He views you as a sister, so it's natural that he would want to spend some time with you after being apart so long. Trust me, I understand team dynamics and how close team mates become." She glanced meaningfully at her male team members who seemed to be interrogating the kyuubi vessel.
The celebrity tried to muffle her giggles. "Poor Naruto."
"I suppose I should help him out. Good luck on the rest of your tour, Sakura!"
"Thank you, Hinata."
As she was watching the small heiress try to talk Kiba and Shino into leaving Naruto alone, she felt someone behind her and spun around again. Strong arms grabbed her in a hug and all she could see was green. It had to be either Gai-sensei or Lee. Sakura was praying it was the younger of the two. "Sakura-san! It is a shame our village is losing such a beautiful example of youth and vitality again! May your springtime shine brightly on those you encounter!"
Confusion melted into recognition, causing a slightly relieved smile. She pushed back from the suffocating embrace. "Lee-san! It's good to see you."
Tenten spoke from behind the young man. "We wouldn't have missed it, Sakura."
Curiosity caused an arch in Sakura's brow and Lee stepped back, lacing his hand with Tenten's. "I KNEW IT! Can I call 'em or what?!"
Tenten giggled. "I want to thank you. Lee has been terribly oblivious for years."
The taijutsu master blushed. "I always thought you had a thing for Neji."
Her brown eyes rolled. "Yeah, when we were thirteen! That was nine years ago. I developed a crush on you six years ago. And you," she poked him in the chest, "have been absolutely blind to it."
Sakura smiled at the playfully arguing couple. "I'm off to find Shikamaru and Chouji. I haven't seen them yet. See you guys, later!"
Shikamaru embraced the young woman. "Sakura, it's going to be sad to see you leave again."
"I won't be gone for too long. My tour has six months left and I'm coming home for good after that."
Shikamaru sighed as he leaned back in his chair. "Troublesome." Then he smirked teasingly at Sakura as he cracked open one eye lazily. He had gotten to know the kunoichi well when she worked in the Hokage's office. He was called in frequently to discuss strategies and Sakura had been very insightful and helpful during the discussions.
Chouji glanced at the instruments set up on the stage. "You're going to sing for us, right?"
His voice carried and started a chant in the pub. "Song! Song! Song! Song!"
Sakura giggled in slight embarrassment and sighed. "Fine. I'll sing for you."
Everyone cheered as she took the stage, her band following suit. Kakashi watched from his spot in one dark corner as Sakura picked up her guitar. He hadn't had the pleasure of hearing her play yet and he was excited that he was finally getting the opportunity.
The sounds of the keyboard filled the suddenly silent pub for a few seconds before Sakura began to sing.
You try so hard to be cold
You try so hard to not show
I give you nothing to doubt and you doubt me
I give you all that I have but you don't see
Now I know that my eyes must close here
Every word seems to feel like you don't care
But I know that you're so confused and afraid
I just want to be one true thing that don't fade
I don't wanna give up tomorrow
I just can't understand why we're going on
Kakashi watched in rapt fascination. It was a different sound from the pop songs she had performed during her return party and he actually preferred the music she was playing now. The words were an eye opener also. Was she singing about him? Had he really been that insensitive to her in the past? It was entirely possible and unintentional. He wouldn't make the same mistakes again. Now that he knew Sakura wanted to have something with him, he wasn't about to lose his chance.
You try so hard to be heard
You try so hard to not hurt
I give you nothing to doubt and you doubt me
I give you all that I have but you don't see
Kakashi stopped listening to the words as he watched the young woman perform. Her eyes were closed as she sang and strummed her guitar, lost in her music. She was always beautiful, but Kakashi was struck speechless each time he saw another facet of her as an adult. It only pushed him closer to the idea of falling in love with the kunoichi. It would be entirely too easy to lose his heart, what was left of it anyway, to the woman on stage.
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Sakura was sitting on her balcony, looking at the brightly lit streets and the families and young couples finishing some late evening shopping. Their group would be leaving in the morning and the young woman knew she would miss the village terribly. An affectionate smile graced her lips as she watched a little girl crush a newly purchased stuffed animal to her cheek. That is why she became a kunoichi, to protect those who were innocent, to fight and defend so they wouldn't have to stain their hands with blood. She would just have to remember that when it came time to say goodbye to Snow and fame forever.
The door behind her opened and she turned slightly to see Kakashi moving to occupy the empty chair next to her. "Hey, Kakashi."
"Getting in one last good look?" He handed her the extra cup of tea he was carrying before turning to tug down his mask and take a sip of his own.
"I know I'll be back in a few months, but it's still hard to say 'goodbye' to this place. There's a lot of charm in Snow Country, but it just isn't Konoha."
Kakashi nodded before turning again to take a sip of his tea.
Sakura shook her head at the familiar action. "I've seen you without your mask on before, you know." Almost immediately she regretted saying it. The memories it dredged up were not pleasant ones. "It was a terrifying experience and I hope you never have to go through that again."
Kakashi's eye widened as the experience she was referring to finally registered. He set his mug down and fidgeted with the gloves on his hands. "I never did thank you for that. If it wasn't for you, I surely would have died in that compound."
"Please don't say that. I know you were in bad shape, but you would have made it. The ANBU squad was only one day behind me." She didn't quite believe it herself, but it made it easier to bear. Her mouth just wouldn't stop, the emotions from that day propelling her forward. She confessed her fears, which contradicted her previous statements. "I was so afraid I wouldn't be strong enough to get to you, or have enough chakra left to heal you. I was worried I wouldn't be able to save you. I've never been so scared as I was then."
Kakashi moved to kneel in front of her, grasping her hands in his. He felt the need to comfort her, to let her know how magnificent she was. "Sakura, you are an amazing medic and a brilliant kunoichi. If you had any doubts about your abilities, that's purely my own fault. I didn't train you as well as I should have. I overlooked your own potential since I wasn't sure how to hone your skills. Instead of searching for an appropriate sensei I just kept protecting you, hindering your own growth."
Sakura tightened her hold on his hands as she shook her head in the negative. "No, no. You taught me plenty of great lessons. Never think I didn't learn anything while under your guidance. I didn't realize how important teamwork was until I was part of Team 7. 'The whole is greater than the sum of its parts' was just some old saying until you helped me learn what it truly means. Not to mention 'underneath the underneath'. That one has come in handy in non-combat situations."
She hesitantly reached a hand up to touch his mask covered chin. When he didn't pull away or even flinch, she bit her lip while she gathered her courage. "For instance, beneath all your walls and barriers, I think there's a lonely man who wants to be loved and cherished just as much as anyone else." She pulled down the mask and smiled softly at the stunned face before her. He was still absolutely beautiful, more so since he was alert and healthy this time around. She pulled up the forehead protector and removed it from his head, letting his hair fall in the messy arrangement she loved so much.
Kakashi didn't know what to think. He had been so careful to keep his distance from others for so long, but somehow Sakura had pushed her way through all his posturing and saw who he was underneath his aloof exterior. This woman could read him better than anybody else had ever been able to, and the thought simultaneously scared and excited him. Maybe he and Sakura were meant to be together. He hesitated for only a second before moving in closer to the pink-headed woman in front of him.
Sakura couldn't move as she watched his bare face coming closer. The thought that things may be moving too quickly entered her mind, only to be pushed out immediately. She and Kakashi had been spending a lot of time together, re-igniting a friendship that was stronger than ever. Their light flirtations had been fun; drawing her even closer to the man she was certain she still loved. She couldn't imagine being with anyone else but Kakashi for the rest of her life. Snapping to a decision, she leaned forward slightly to meet his lips halfway.
The kiss was sweet, chaste and innocent but still was enough to make Sakura melt. Kakashi moved to deepen the kiss, increasing the pressure of his mouth against hers and letting his tongue creep out to taste her. Sakura had the same intentions, her own tongue meeting his in the middle. As their kiss intensified, Sakura laced her fingers into Kakashi's hair and he wrapped his strong arms around her.
Sakura began to lead, slowing the kiss down and moving her hands from his hair to rest lightly on his shoulders. She was not about to let things spiral out of control. With one last small peck, she pulled back and then placed her lips gently to his forehead as she stood. "Goodnight, Kakashi." She winked and smiled at him before heading inside.
Kakashi sat there trying to catch his breath and slow his pounding pulse. He had wanted to kiss her for so long, and it had been well worth the wait. No one had ever evoked so many emotions within him with just a kiss. He pulled his mask back up with a silly smile. The next few months were going to be interesting to say the least.
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Sakura giggled at Kakashi, Naruto, Sai and Yamato as they tugged uncomfortably at the civilian attire they were sporting. Despite having to wear the civilian clothes for the past few days, they were still having trouble adjusting. "Why can't we just wear our ninja gear, Sakura-chan?"
There was a sigh as she shook her head. She had already answered this question multiple times. "I'm supposed to be a civilian. This will keep all of us safer if no one knows any of us are ninja. Besides, we're in Mist right now, which isn't exactly friendly territory," Sakura answered as her blond teammate continued to whine.
Ino flipped a lock of hair over her shoulder. "I don't know what you guys are complaining about. These are just as comfortable as ninja clothes."
Koji poked his head into the carriage carrying the Konoha shinobi. "We're here. Time to get ready, Sakura."
"Did you get the tickets for these five?" Sakura hooked a thumb towards the people behind her as she descended from the wagon.
"Yes. They'll be in the first row tonight." Koji smiled brightly at the excited look that crossed Sakura's visage.
"Good."
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Ino, Naruto, Kakashi, Sai and Yamato watched Sakura as she prepared for the concert. The stylists buzzed around all the dancers and performers as hair, make-up and costumes were donned. Sakura sat in a corner chair quietly as Hajime fixed her hair. Her eyes slipped closed and Ino giggled. "Sakura always loved having her hair played with. I think she's asleep."
Koji bustled by on his way to talk to the sound engineers. "Nope. She's meditating."
Naruto quirked an eyebrow at the revelation. Sakura had never been the meditating type. Sitting still and quietly concentrating on finding inner peace wasn't really her cup of tea.
A few moments later, Aya pulled her into a dressing room and she emerged in black skinny jeans and a black t-shirt. "I'll just set the jacket on this hook here, sweetie."
"Thank you, Aya." The black leather jacket that was meant to complete the outfit was going to look stunning on the fair-skinned and pink-haired woman.
Another woman swooped in to do Sakura's make-up and then the back-up singers gathered around Sakura. The warm-ups were performed; Sakura did a few more stretches and then hopped up and down while looking in the mirror. "Show time. Show time. Show time."
Koji stepped up behind her. "Get out there and show them what you can do!"
With a nod she approached her Konoha friends. "I'll have Makoto take you to your seats and I'll see you in a few minutes!" With a bright smile, she followed the other performers down a hallway.
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Makoto escorted the five ninja to their seats just before show time. "Enjoy the show!"
They had seen her perform before, but nothing this large. The tiny pub in Konoha would fit entirely onto the gigantic stage in front of them. Yamato's large eyes widened as he turned to look behind them. "There's got to be at least several thousand people here."
The rest turned and Naruto whistled. "Sakura-chan is popular."
The crowd started to go wild and they turned to see Sakura's band and dancers moving in the darkness to take their places. Ino grinned. "I'm sure what she did in Konoha is nothing like what we're about to see here. Let's see how our little Forehead Girl became so famous."
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A/N: Hopefully, the next chapter will be easier to write. But don't hold your breath! Even if I have tons of inspiration, I still need time to sit and write the darn thing. The song Sakura sings is 'Howl' by Black Rebel Motorcycle Club. It's one of the songs that gave birth to this whole fic. Listen to it! It's brilliant. I recommend a live version since you get an extra verse with it. Reviews appreciated! Smooches!