AN: Well here is the next chapter. I know it's been forever but I finally got another chapter done. Sorry for the wait! ENJOY!

Chapter 3

The only thing Sakura could hear was her own heart racing. She could feel it pounding beneath her hand and the body heat from the man was slowly closing in on her. Her breathing was unsteady and her mind was frantically trying to comprehend his words. This is wrong! A quick fading voice suddenly echoed in her mind as she felt his hot breath across her cheeks, his lips so close now she could almost taste them. Unconsciously she slightly parted her lips as if on instinct, as if she was ready and waiting for him. But he didn't claim her lips, he met her gaze and the fierce raw sexual hunger she saw in his eyes made her body heat and buzz with excitement.

Her mind went blank and her desire seemed to take control of her body as her hands reached out and gently slid from his naval to his chest. A low growl resonated from his throat and his hand landed on the wall next to her head as if to steady himself. The feel of his hot skin beneath her hands made her palms burn. His heart raced wildly against his ribcage, telling her with every beat just how much he wanted her. This sudden ache in her body was threatening to take control. It's been too long since she felt this much desire run through her veins. Her eyes fluttered shut as she closed that short distance between them.

The sweet taste of his lips was a minty poison to her senses and sent them running in all directions. Any wrong or right flew out the window. All she wanted now was to continue feeling this need, this hunger, this desire, this feeling of being wanted again. The embrace of a man snaking his arm around her waist to pull her close and claim her as his own, the sexual hunger he showed as he attacked her lips wanting more and more of her and only her.

Her eyes flew open and her fantasy shot back to reality when she heard the door open and a familiar voice echo off the suddenly enclosing walls. "Whoa! Sorry..." Without hesitation she pushed away Kotetsu, sending her once heated body into an instant ice age. Her breath caught in her throat as she stared wide-eyed at Izumo who was still lingering in the doorway a look of shock splashed across his face.

Panic suddenly filled her mind and her heart. She'd been caught doing the one thing she despised the most. She lowered herself to the one level she swore she never would. Her fists clenched at her sides and she swallowed the lump in her throat. This has to end here and now. She was acting on impulse and if it doesn't end here she will pay a bigger price than she already has to. She shuttered inwardly thinking of what Sasuke's reaction would be. "Please, both of you forget what happened here." She whispered bowing her head, the urge to burst into tears was threatening her.

"Sakura..." Kotetsu reached for her but she moved away and threw her hand in the air signally him to not come any closer.

"Just stop." She ordered, meeting his gaze. "It should have never happened." She brushed passed him and grabbed the file. "I'm sorry if I gave you the wrong idea Kotetsu. Forgive me. But I can't return your feelings." She scurried for the door and Izumo stumbled aside to let her pass. She stopped and without being able to meet his gaze she muttered in a shaky voice. "Izumo please wait in exam room 1. I'll be with you shortly." With that she hurried down the hallway.

"Sakura wait..." Kotetsu began after her. However he was stopped in his tracks when Izumo took hold of his arm.

"Let her go." He frowned.

Kotetsu growled and struggled to get loose. "Stay out of it! You..."

"Let her go" Izumo repeated he met the man's gaze with anger swirling in his eyes. "Do you think you can change anything by going after her? Sakura's a pro at closing herself off. And the only thing you will do if you chase her now is throw away anything you might have with her." The anger dissipated and was replaced by worry and concern. "She's been through so much already Kotetsu and I can understand how you feel. But don't force her, you'll both only end up hurting more."

Kotetsu's chest tightened. Izumo let him go and his arm fell limp at his side. Hurt her? He never ever wanted to hurt her. All he wants is to protect her and be there for her. Love her with everything he has to give. "Damn it!" He cursed and a crack sounded when he punched the wall. His friend was right, if he chased after her now, she would surely close herself off to him forever.

Wednesday, July 28

"You know you should really stop by one of these days Sakura." The blonde haired man began rambling. "You could come over for dinner or just stop and visit for a minute. I'm sure Hinata would be thrilled to see you. With the baby due soon I'm sure she could use some of that woman to woman stuff you guys do. She's been cooped up in the house so long I think..."

"Naruto" Sakura stated flatly. "Quit talking and just breathe." She moved the chest piece of her stethoscope from his back to his chest.

"Sorry" Naruto whispered and did as he was told.

Sakura herself had to take a deep breath. Though she was trying her hardest to listen to his breathing, the only thing she could concentrate on was the events from yesterday. She couldn't bear to look Izumo in the eyes as she proceeded with his physical, which she had almost called off altogether. But she couldn't, she was a professional and that's just not how she does things. She was grateful though that he didn't push the matter and instead tried to lighten the mood the way he always did. It lessened her tension at least and she was able to finish his physical quickly. But he stirred her heart before he had left. He told her she should forgive Kotetsu, because he really did care for her and has for almost 10 years and also the man just can't stomach having to watch her suffer.

Remembering his words pulled at her heart. Kotetsu has been struggling with his feelings for her for such a long time; the news was a little shocking to say the least. Why had she never noticed his feelings before? She couldn't have been so naive as not to notice. A frown crossed her face. She knew the reason why, it was because of Sasuke. Even before he returned she was blinded by her love for him. And now...another string pulled on her heart. Loving Sasuke and being with him is something she used to only dream about. And that had amazingly become a reality. But then, why if she loved him so much was Kotetsu able to affect her so? The question has been weighing on her mind since yesterday, slowly eating away at her from the inside out. It had to be because she felt the desire that every lonely woman does to be held by a man and Kotetsu fed that desire. The only other reason possible is that she has feelings for him. Her frown deepened but her heart thumped. She didn't approve of that theory, however the thought of it made her feel a little happier then it should.

"Sakura?" She jumped in surprise and met Naruto's worried gaze. "Is something wrong?"

Staring at him blankly she just now noticed that her hand hadn't moved in quite sometime. Silently she scolded herself for her lack of concentration, clearing her head she gave him a small smile. "I'm fine." She chimed as happy as she could and quickly turned to grab his file. "I'm just tired." She lied. "It's hard to sleep without Sasuke in the house." Another lie.

And Naruto called her on it. "Oh? Then why is it you look like your about to cry? Sasuke's gone all the time so I know that can't be it."

She froze and her heart pounded against her chest. It wasn't till this moment she could feel the burn in the back of her eyes. Taking a deep breath she pushed the urge aside, with all her might she swallowed the lump in her throat. "It's nothing...really." She tried for that happy chime again, only this time it came out shaky and sounding unsure. Her breath hitched when she felt a hand on her shoulder.

"Sakura, I know you better than that." Concern evident in his voice. "What's wrong?" She clenched her eyes shut as a tear rolled down her cheek. Years of emotion suddenly crept up on her and she could feel the weight of it, slowly starting to suffocate her. Why? Why did everything have to go so wrong? It was her fault, she always knew that, everything in her life going wrong was her fault. A small sob escaped her throat and she lowered her head covering her face with her hands. Kotetsu has been suffering because of her and Sasuke has been through so much because of her. If she hadn't been distracted that day, Haruko would still be here and Sasuke would have never lost his son. Everything would be different now. Sasuke wouldn't have started treating her the way he does now. She'd be happy and she wouldn't be questioning her feelings for the man she loved and married. And she would have never flung herself into another man's arms.

Naruto spun her around and wrapped his arms around her, gently cradling her head on his shoulder, the warm tears escaping through her hands and trickling down his chest. "I'm sorry" He whispered softly. Hearing his words another sob escaped and she leaned into him. It was as if he knew she was at her breaking point and that she could crumble to pieces at any moment. But why apologize? It was her who should be apologizing.

Another sob escaped. When had life become such a chore to live? Everyday she forced out all the pain and hid behind her happy facade. That was the only way she knew how. It was the only way she could avoid reality and the cold truth of everything bad that has happened. She still blames herself for the death of their son and the cold treatment from the man she loves the guilt and pain just piled up. Love him? She let out another sob. With everyday that passes truth is she hates him more and more. She hates him for what he's become and for how he treats her. She hates him for moving her into the guest bedroom. She hates him for bringing women into their home. She hates him for never just straight out telling her it was her fault for killing their son, giving her the cold silent treatment was brutal to her heart and her emotions. Silently she admitted for the first time that she stays with him and let's him treat her this way as retribution. Taking it as punishment for her horrible deeds. She owes it to Sasuke for taking the life of their son. She let out a heartbreaking sob and threw her arms around Naruto's neck. Crying harder than she has in a long time. Why did everything have to be so painful?

Naruto held her tight and let her cry, to let out all those emotions that she has been holding back for so long. He knew this day would come. He knew one day everything would catch up to her and she would break. He didn't have any words to ease her pain, he couldn't tell her everything will be alright, because he knows that now life's only going to become harder and more pain will show its ugly face. But he would be here for her no matter what. They stood there for what seemed like an eternity, the small echo of her sobs resonating to his very soul. He wanted so badly to take her pain away, though he knows he can't. The least he can do is be her shoulder to cry on. And with every tear that fell his anger boiled inside towards the man he used to call his friend. This should be Sasuke here comforting her and reassuring her. But he knows that will never happen. Sasuke's changed and Naruto could beat him for it. The sobs slowly began to lesson and she loosened her grip and then just sniffles could be heard. Then slowly she withdrew her hands and wiped at her wet cheeks.

Naruto lowered his head to her eye level and held her gaze. "Feel any better?" He asked with a crooked smile.

She couldn't help but give a small laugh at his effort, but she wiped at another escaping tear averting her eyes. "No" She muttered behind her small crying smile. "I'll be alright though."

Naruto frowned. "Don't force yourself Sakura."

"I won't" She whispered.

He pursed his lips knowing that she would but he wasn't going to argue about it now. "Just remember I'm here for you if you ever need anything."

She sniffled and wiped at another tear, her hand stopped midway down her cheek that was slowly turning a shade of pink. Her wide eyed gaze came up to meet his and he raised a questioning brow. She let her gaze drop quickly then met his again; her tears seemed to stop rather quickly. Because she had completely forgot about his lack of clothing.

He followed her gaze down and held back a chuckle. "Well you see it was an emergency situation and I didn't have time to dress." He smiled and she shook her head as she turned away. His smile grew when he heard a small giggle.

"Thanks Naruto" She flashed him a genuine small smile over her shoulder. "And tell Hinata I'll come visit her soon."

With great effort she had pulled her act together and finished up the work day without any more break downs. She closed her eyes and slumped further down the couch. It was mortifying to think how she had just broken down in front of Naruto like that. She was horrible for putting him through such an ordeal. And to top it off he was naked the whole time. She covered her eyes with her hand still in disbelief about that one. "He's and idiot" She muttered as a smile twitched at her lips. Hinata's a lucky woman though. The thought of their happy life together made her happy.

A frown crossed her face. Yet she still envied them, at times she even resented them for having what she herself desired. It wasn't just them either, it was every couple. Even those couples she passed on the street, she hated them. Letting out a sigh she rubbed her eyes. She wondered what people would think of her if they knew she was such a horrible person. If they knew that behind her smile were thoughts that wished for their unhappiness they would surely hate her.

She ran her hand down her face and let out a frustrated sigh. Honestly she didn't want any harm to come to them. She never wants anyone to suffer like she has. She just wants what they have. It's selfish of her to think it. Because she knows more than anyone that she doesn't deserve the happiness they have. She's a fool to think that she does.

A light tapping sounded from the front door breaking her thoughts. She lowered her hand and turned her head in the direction of the door. Who would be here at this hour? Kotetsu maybe? Her heart thumped at the idea but she knew he wouldn't go as far as to come to her home. Would he? She shook the idea from her head and pushed herself up. Maybe it was a messenger bringing her news of Sasuke? Maybe he finally got himself hurt? Her heart thumped and her steps halted. Her eyes went wide and she clutched her shirt over her heart. Why did that thought make her happy? She knew she has grown to hate him, but to hate him enough to wish for his demise.

She shut her eyes and clenched her teeth, holding back her anger. Damn that Kotetsu, it's his doing why her walls were crumbling and her true feelings were seeping out. Why couldn't he have left well enough alone? The tapping sounded again, louder this time. Sakura shook her thoughts clear and swallowed her emotions. She quickly reached the door and opened it only to wish she hadn't.

"Oh, it's you." The woman said as if surprised to see her in her own home.

Anger filled her every fiber and her knuckles turned white as they clenched the doorknob, trying to keep herself from striking the woman. Sakura remembers her clearly, her long dark hair and those evil blue eyes, Sasuke brought her here often. The thought made her blood boil. "Can I help you?" She tried to sound nice but failed. She really didn't need to ask, she knew of this tramp and what she was here for.

A knowing devious smile crept across the woman's face. "Actually I was hoping Sasuke was in."

Another wave of anger washed over her. Sakura couldn't believe the audacity of this woman. What gives her the right? "He's not here" Sakura hissed and moved to slam the door in her face. Only the woman threw her hand out stopping the door from closing.

"Well then you wouldn't mind passing on a message would you?" Sakura's piercing gaze shot to hers, that was it, she's had it. But before she could release her anger the woman spoke. "Tell him that I am indeed pregnant and he is no doubt the father."

Sakura's heart stopped and her anger turned to shock. "Wha….What did you say?"

The woman's smile grew. "Please tell him that he's going to be a father." She lowered her hand from the door and turned on her heel. "Thanks" She hollered over her shoulder as she disappeared.

Sakura's heart pounded in her ears and her knees gave out from under her. Unable to catch herself she sank to the floor. That woman was pregnant with Sasuke's child? It wasn't possible, there was no way. The words echoed in her mind 'Tell him that I am indeed pregnant…'. Does that mean that Sasuke knew this woman could be carrying his child? Had he planned it? Her breathing grew ragged, before her chest tightened and the ground beneath her began to spin. "It can't be true." She muttered before tears began to fall.

Thursday, July 29

Kotetsu's patience was quickly evaporating. Why did he have to be the Hokage's lap dog? Couldn't she get her own damn dumplings? His frown deepened as the group of women in line in front of him let out another burst of their obnoxious giggling. At this rate his pounding head was only gonna get worse. He rubbed his temples in hopes to subdue the throbbing even a little bit would be nice. He let out a sigh. Maybe if he could actually get some sleep his head wouldn't hurt so badly. But unfortunately for the last two nights every time he closed his eyes Sakura was there. And to his dismay she wasn't even happy to see him in his own imagination.

He let out another sigh and his arms fell to his sides. How badly he's wanted to seek her out these last couple of days. More so when Izumo wouldn't tell him if she said anything about him or not. He wanted to talk to her, have a chance to apologize and explain himself. That's all, but he couldn't bring himself to do it. He was still scared that it was too soon to confront her again. What if he really did push her too far she would be out of his reach forever? His heart ached at the thought. It would kill him.

"Are you gonna move up or what?" An annoying voice sounded from behind him.

He opened his eyes to see the line had moved up. Scowling he stepped forward. Why did that damn woman have to pick the most popular shop in the village? They all tasted the same to him.

"Should a shinobi really be daydreaming like that?" The voice sounded again. "What if I had been en enemy? You'd be dead right now."

Kotetsu bit his bottom lip to hold back lashing out. He wasn't a man to strike a civilian woman but this one was getting close to making him break that rule. Since when did people become so disrespectful?

"You didn't!" One of the women in front of him drew in a gasp, drawing his attention. "You said that to his wife? How could you?"

Kotetsu rolled his eyes and averted his gaze to a poster adorning the wall of the shop. These young women these days were amazing at gossip and they had no care whether they kept it private or not. Couldn't they do this where they wouldn't annoy others? His gaze shot back to the conversation that he couldn't avoid listening to; especially now that he heard the Uchiha's name mentioned.

"But won't Sasuke be angry?" One of them asked.

"How can he be angry at the woman caring his child?" The woman with long dark hair said crossing her arms over chest.

Kotetsu's blood ran cold. Pregnant? This woman was caring Sasuke's child? And she had the nerve to tell Sakura? Anger and worry filled his being. He was angry at this woman and Sasuke, yet he worried for Sakura more. He turned on his heel to leave, he had to find her. He didn't make it far when the woman's voice sounded again stopping him in his tracks.

"And besides that dumb wife of his deserves to suffer."

Before Kotetsu could stop himself he grabbed the woman by her arm and spun her around, ignoring the yelps from her and her friends. "Who the hell do you think you are?" He growled causing the whole shop to go silent and all eyes to fall on him. "You know nothing about her!"

She struggled in his grasp. "Let go!" She yelled clawing at his hand.

His grip tightened and he jerked her closer stopping her struggling. He brought his face close to hers and took delight in the frightened look she took on. "You're nothing but a whore, you're perfect for that piece of shit Uchiha." He scowled and pushed her away, not caring that she just about tumbled backwards if her friends hadn't been there to catch her. He turned to leave glad the crowd had moved aside for him to get through. He made it to the exit and stopped. He glanced over his shoulder to see the woman in tears, being comforted by her friends. "And just so you know, Sakura's completely out of your league." He averted his eyes to the street in front of him. "She's a thousands times the woman you will ever be." With that he took off to the rooftops.

AN: Soooooo...How was it? Good? Bad? I know sorry for the cliffhanger. Next chapter in the workings. :-) Please let me know what you think! Thank You! LUV YA!