Early confession
Okay. This was no time or place to panic. This was only a rehearsal dinner.
So what if Sakura forgot she should have brought formal clothes with her? So what if everyone else there was overdressed, compared to her? So what if neither Hokage showed up? They were only the most important people, excluding the bride and the groom, who weren't supposed to go through the ceremony twice anyway.
Sasuke was also late and Sakura knew he'd arrived this morning. Unlike him, his mother was busy the entire day; with the band in the morning and at the moment with foreign guests who needed accommodation and Sakura was stuck with seemingly easy task all alone.
She couldn't know the scariest member of Sasuke's family would be present the whole time! Until today, Sakura didn't have to impress Fugaku because he was always more interested in Hinata than in her.
The highlight of Sakura's day so far were bride's maids, who were ready to hear Sakura's final instructions and Sakura couldn't stop thinking how irrelevant everything was if neither Kakashi nor Tsunade came to her rescue soon enough. She knew better than anyone they could appear any minute now which was making it impossible for Sakura to get back to her place and dress for the occasion. She could boss around to bride's maids in casual outfit, but nobody else would take her seriously since she was looking like a passer-by who got lost and ended up here by accident.
It wouldn't be an overstatement to say Sakura was on the edge of a nervous breakdown.
However, she was participating in order to make the wedding perfect for Hinata and first step to that goal were cute, girlie and cheerful bride's maids!
They were all kunoichi and their pink dresses were fitting them flawlessly and, the most important, they were taking the wedding seriously by arriving on time! They were obeying Sakura's every word and she was feeling very proud until she found out they didn't care about the wedding itself.
''This is a great opportunity to meet cute guys!'' one of them said.
''There will be so many honoured guests, I bet couple of them are cute enough for us!''
''I heard Kazekage already arrived! And he is single!''
''And don't forget Naruto-kun!''
They all giggled.
If Temari had been in Sakura's shoes, she would have scolded them for thinking about men as their greatest achievement, while Ino would have probably given them tips to get men's attention the fastest way.
Sakura couldn't do any of it because she was listening in on their conversation while hiding from Fugaku. He was preoccupied with Hyuuga family, but he was keeping an eye on her too. His unreadable but piercing glare was making Sakura nervous like never before, so she was walking around while waiting for Hokage.
Tomorrow's ceremony was taking place in the biggest house of the clan. Because of all the people interested to see newly weds, it had to be the house in the district, also the one where clan's meeting were usually held. Many people would also congratulate and encourage the happy couple right after they commit themselves to one another, so any place more spacious but further from the village was out of the question.
Inside the mansion there were Fugaku and Hiashi, many other chosen representatives while outside were nosy people and all of them Uchihas!
Despite the size of the mansion, Sakura didn't have enough space for hiding.
Being in the same room with current clans' heads, she couldn't stop thinking about their children. Not only the older ones were getting married tomorrow, younger ones could also follow their steps. After all, the age difference between Hanabi and Sasuke was the same as one between Hinata and Itachi. Not to mention Sasuke was always trying to resemble Itachi. Nobody needed to point out to Sakura she wasn't as nearly as wanted like Hinata to become Uchiha. How many times Sasuke's father thought of her as inappropriate? Or not good enough? Not only she had the outfit of the intruder, she was feeling like one.
All the guests were chatting casually and Sakura was distracted with too important people missing and she didn't notice somebody was interested to talk to her.
''Sakura-chan.''
Sakura almost passed out hearing Fugaku's voice. Did she have answers to his questions, like where were Hokage, why was she wearing her casual outfit or maybe if Hinata was feeling nervous about tomorrow?
''Fugaku-san.''
He was silent for a long moment and Sakura was too terrified to breathe normally. Instead of expected serious face and harsh tone, Fugaku's voice was friendly and his gaze the least scary one.
''Even if something unplanned occurs, it doesn't need to be necessarily bad.''
''I guess,'' she shrugged, having no clue what Fugaku was talking about.
''I see you as the one who can adjust easily to unexpected turn of events.''
For a moment it sounded like Fugaku complimented her and her ability to adapt to different situations. Then again, it could be interpreted as a warning. What she should be afraid of? Or why? And why was he telling her that now, when nothing was going according to her plan?
''I will do my best,'' Sakura forced a smile, hoping she would succeed to meet Fugaku's expectations.
''There you are!''
Mikoto's greeting saved Sakura from talking further to Fugaku.
''What happened to your dress, Sakura-chan?'' Mikoto asked. ''You forgot?''
''It got dirty, so I changed!'' Sakura lied. She would rather be clumsy than unreliable.
''Hokage aren't here yet?'' Mikoto asked her husband.
He sighed instead of answering.
''Why don't you go and take another dress, Sakura-chan?'' Mikoto proposed. ''Even if Tsunade-sama decides to attend, Fugaku needs to speak with her before you.''
''Great idea,'' Sakura smiled gratefully, regretting she'd lied. Mikoto was doing her a great favour and she didn't tell her the truth.
''You could take Hinata-chan's sister with you,'' Mikoto added. ''She is looking like she is bored!''
''Very well,'' Sakura forced a smile, not looking forward to entertain anyone while searching for a fancy dress at her flat!
''Hanabi!'' Mikoto's cheerful voice wasn't so pleasant while she was yelling. ''Sakura-chan needs you!''
Obviously annoyed, Hanabi reluctantly joined Sakura on her way out of the mansion.
''What?'' young Hyuuga asked, now alone with Sakura.
''I need to go to my flat to change so-''
''Great, let's go!'' Hanabi grabbed Sakura's upper arm, dragging her away from rehearsal dinner.
Maybe guests were bugging Hanabi much more than they were interested in Sakura, since she could pretend to be busy while Hanabi had to fake she liked small talk. As far as Sakura knew, Hanabi didn't have a boyfriend and her sister's wedding and everyone talking about it didn't seem interesting.
''Tomorrow the main street will become a catwalk,'' Sakura said, pretending not be nervous while people on the street were obviously staring at two strangers.
''Because of Hinata,'' Hanabi said.
''Of course because of her.''
''So your wedding won't be so glamorous?''
''Thank goodness!'' Sakura sighed with a relief.
''And you are not jealous of my sister?''
Sakura remembered Hanabi had refused to be the maid of honour, probably more envious than Sakura has ever been.
Stressful job Sakura accepted to grow bigger in Sasuke's family's eyes meant much more to Hinata. With both of them as Uchiha brides, they had to stick together because they were more alike than Sakura was willing to admit. They were both intruders into a big and famous clan. The huge difference was Hinata got used to it while being heiress and Sakura was hiding her fear of disappointing Sasuke the best way she had known-lying.
''I am not,'' Sakura responded and for the first time in months, she meant it.
''So you are not here from the start because of the big brother?''
Sakura was too shocked to answer calmly.
''Of course not!'' she snapped and Hanabi looked glad she made Sakura lose her cool.
Who would have even looked at Itachi and considered him better only because he was the heir? Sasuke was strong and smart, tall and handsome! Also not here, but irrelevant! Was somebody else thinking the same? Sakura wanted to get closer to Itachi, cold and reserved Uchiha heir? Why would anyone do that? Except Hinata, of course. She was seeing Itachi as much more than he really was and no matter how much she tried, Sakura didn't get the better picture about him than she had before Hinata's explanation. He was a perfect shinobi on the outside and Sakura couldn't argue with that. If he was Hinata's choice, Sakura had no right to interfere, only express her opinion and show her own choice to Hinata and that was Itachi's brother.
Sasuke was her childhood sweetheart. And a best friend. Former team mate and strong shinobi. After all of that he was Uchiha and she wouldn't even bother to think about Uchiha heir if he hadn't been Sasuke's brother.
Shallow person like Hanabi would never understand, since she had turned down Hinata's plea, when Hinata needed her support and approval. If Hanabi wasn't able to pretend to be happy for her only sister, why would she be considerate about Sakura? And why was she so obsessed with Itachi? Maybe because she was also the younger one and envied every heir?
''Do you live alone?'' Hanabi asked, finally changing the subject.
''I do.''
''Did you hear already? Hinata will live in the biggest house in the village, starting tomorrow.''
Great. Did this girl have any other topic to discuss?
After Hinata's sister asked about the number of the rooms and the rent, Sakura had a feeling Hanabi was mocking to her way of life. What did she know? It was a perfect flat for a neat kunoichi, who spent most of her time doing something meaningful and useful, like working at the hospital or doing missions. Even now, while on vacation, she was dedicated to the wedding, so again she wasn't spending much time at her home. Sakura should have thought about that before letting Hanabi enter.
Because of the busiest two weeks of her life, Sakura didn't have the time to do the house work and her tiny flat seemed even smaller.
''Sorry for the mess,'' Sakura apologized, but that didn't make her bedroom cleaner.
''At least the kitchen is clean,'' Hanabi shrugged. ''Either you are a great cook or you don't know to turn on the stove.''
Sakura frowned immediately and Hanabi laughed. Didn't she know nobody liked smarty-pants?
''What kind of dress are you going to wear tomorrow?'' Hanabi yelled, being in the kitchen while Sakura was digging through her closet.
''Black one!'' Sakura answered shouting.
''Me too!''
Sakura was concentrated on this particular moment and she couldn't find a single clean and ironed fancy dress! Except the one she had bought for the wedding.
If she had known Hokage would be so late, she would have washed the entire wardrobe! She wasted the precious time on waiting and she came for nothing. She should have been prepared for the rehearsal dinner. She was so obsessed with others and their responsibilities she totally forgot about her own! This was her once in a lifetime opportunity to shine and she blew it.
''What's wrong?''
Hanabi must have heard Sakura's desperate sighs, so she felt brave enough to walk into the untidy bedroom.
''I have nothing to wear,'' Sakura admitted. ''I mean, nothing is freshly washed.''
''Well, the main thing is tomorrow,'' Hanabi shrugged. ''Wear the least dirty one and pretend you didn't notice the stain or its smell.''
She couldn't use lame excuse as that. It was humiliating enough Mikoto knew she couldn't cook, now she didn't care about her clean clothes as well?
''You actually don't have the right dress for the occasion,'' Hanabi concluded, checking Sakura's dresses closely. ''There isn't one which would leave an impression you are the person who everyone should obey.''
Sakura hated she had to agree with Hanabi.
''Nobody wants to eat a dish from a cook who doesn't wear an apron, so-''
''When dancing, you wear a dancing dress!'' Sakura exclaimed in excitement.
Hanabi was gazing at her strangely after that happy scream, but Sakura was overwhelmed with joy. She had one more dress!
''Why did you put away that beauty?'' Hanabi asked, staring at Ino's blue dress Sakura was trying to get out of its spot.
Sakura smirked while leaning a dress on her. The dancing lesson with the girls seemed like it happened ages ago. And the only thing about the dress she was recalling clearly was low cut on the front that invited Ino to kiss it and-
''I can't wear this,'' Sakura said, folding the dress.
''Why? It's the most beautiful dress you have!''
That hurt a bit. Sakura had pretty clothes. Ino was definitely shopaholic compared to her, but it couldn't be that bad.
''Just put it on or I will tell everyone how dirty your bedroom is!'' Hanabi laughed and left Sakura alone, surrounded with cute dresses on the floor and breathtaking one in her hands.
Sakura couldn't risk Hanabi's big mouth, so she undressed and put on the blue dress.
It was too short, when Sakura was trying to make the low cut not so low. It was long enough when her breasts seemed too exposed. No wonder Temari said the dresses were sluttish. Sakura couldn't be seen dressed this boldly for no special reason. Dancing in the forest with three other girls wearing the same kind of clothes was acceptable, but to spend a few hours with Sasuke's family wasn't Sakura's favourite idea.
''Are you done?'' Hanabi barged in.
Sakura turned to her and smiled faintly.
''It's fine,'' Hanabi said. ''You obviously lost some weight and it's a bit loose, but it's fine.''
Sakura looked down to see her non-existent breasts in her cleavage. After all, this was a dress designed for someone like Ino. Sakura didn't have time to stuff that part with tissues because Hanabi was dragging her out again.
''I don't want this evening to last forever,'' Hanabi said. ''Let's hope Hokage are on their way!''
For the first time today, Sakura was glad Hanabi was with her to remind her about the lack of time. If only she had been so supportive around Hinata. Then Sakura wouldn't have been the maid of honour, feeling naked while wearing Ino's seductive cocktail dress.
While walking through Uchiha district with Hanabi by her side, Sakura finally figured out why the bride and groom weren't part of a rehearsal dinner. Nosy people, and every one of them scary Uchiha, were staring at her and all she could do was smile nervously, trying to hide her discomfort. Knowing Hinata, she would run away the next day to avoid so much attention twice in so short period of time! Unfortunately, Sakura experienced it twice, within a single afternoon!
Then again, Hinata was in a great mood the entire day. Or she has been pretending to be, because it seemed to Sakura she has been a bit too relaxed. Maybe because Itachi was responsible and reliable and he, unlike Sasuke, would never make his fiancée wait for him all alone, with his parents as her strict supervisors!
Sakura tried to calm down, but she couldn't. In no time, everyone would see her wearing Ino's dress. Every single guest and Fugaku, Mikoto, Neji, Hiashi and grey-haired guy who looked a lot like Kakashi.
Kakashi!
He arrived! Hokage was here!
''Nice dress you have, Sakura,'' Kakashi complimented as she was approaching.
''Where the hell have you been?'' she hissed the second she was close enough. She had every right to be mad: he was late and pointed out to everyone she didn't have breasts big enough to make this dress look stunning!
Who knew when he would have turned up if Ino hadn't reminded Gaara about Kage's meeting. Sakura guessed Temari was also present there, meaning Hinata was spending the rest of the day on her own.
''Where is Tsunade-sama? I am stalling here current heirs of Uchiha and Hyuuga clan!''
''There, there,'' Sakura knew Kakashi grinned teasingly, despite his mask. ''You are engaged to Uchiha and Hyuuga's maid of honour!''
''That's what is making it even harder! Where is she?'' Sakura was staring at the distance, hoping to spot a blonde hair.
''Naruto came back today and she is feeling old again,'' Kakashi shrugged.
''That's not a valid excuse.''
No matter how much she was grateful for Tsunade's idea to give her a paid vacation, Sakura was counting on Tsunade's cooperation through this day also.
''Well, not every person can be as happy as you when Naruto arrives!''
Sakura wondered what Kakashi had meant with that, but she couldn't ask anything because Tsunade finally appeared! And, to deepen Sakura's despair, she seemed reluctant, lumbering towards them slowly and nonchalantly.
Instead of greeting everybody, she crushed on a chair in the corner and Sakura thought of the worst-Tsunade couldn't stand up due to liquor in her body.
Not having better idea, Sakura prepared chakra to make the old lady less drunk.
''Can you believe it?'' Tsunade asked absently when Sakura approached. ''Nobody had guts to ask me to be his date for the wedding!''
Sakura sighed, grateful it was only a lack of men's attention.
''If there hadn't been for Kakashi who is obligated to participate in the ceremony with me, I would have been alone the entire evening!''
Sakura was trying to think of a way to make Tsunade feel better and not by killing Jiraiya. Then again, knowing Tsunade, even if he had asked, she would have been nagging about him being the only one.
''Well, I think it's natural,'' Sakura shrugged.
''Natural?'' Tsunade repeated, having the scariest glare ever.
''Well, yeah. You are so strong and beautiful, no wonder men are intimidated! For example, Temari actually asked Shikamaru to be her date! She can be so scary sometimes!''
''So I am scary?'' Tsunade was still frowning.
Among three Sannin, Orochimaru was the scary one, Jiraiya perverted and Tsunade drunk. Too bad the scariest one was also the strongest and, since Ino revealed enough, Jiraiya seemed like a big talker only. Hokage was the most reliable and Sakura admired her not only because of her skills, but her patience to deal with her best friends. She was the one keeping them together all these years and she was refusing to give up on them. No wonder people had the wrong idea about their bond.
''You know what, Tsunade-sama? Why don't you admit you like being single for the wedding?''
''What?''
''That way every single man across the country can compliment you, flirt and dance with you, without fearing an overprotective date would smack them.''
Kakashi's quiet chuckle didn't discourage Sakura to deliver a final compliment.
''You actually enjoy being a heart breaker, rejecting interested guests and Sannin!''
That made Tsunade smirk and she got up to take over the position meant for her and Kakashi.
''All right, gentlemen!'' she was ordering around like the real Hokage, handing over the scrolls to Hiashi and Fugaku. ''We have some work to do!''
Sakura took a deep breath, trying to calm down. Not only Tsunade finally arrived, she acted like the one in charge and Sakura could enjoy a few moments without Fugaku staring at her. She knew well Hokage was the one who had specific rules that had to be emphasised during the ceremony and Sakura joined Kakashi. She assumed he was also feeling like an intruder, having sharingan and never acknowledged by Uchihas as one of the best shinobi of Konoha.
''I bet Ino taught you to compliment Sannin,'' Kakashi said, still chuckling quietly.
''It's simple. You praise their strength and say they look young.''
That tactics might work on every single kunoichi tomorrow, but Tsunade was definitely the most sensitive one. Luckily, Kakashi was here to help.
''If everyone else is too shy to ask Tsunade-sama for a dance, you will be the first one to encourage them.''
''I don't know how to dance.''
Sakura knew he would try to talk himself out if it.
''How did you know this was a dancing dress?'' she asked, grinning.
Kakashi sighed.
''I will dance with Tsunade-sama.''
''She will be flattered and it's not like you are taking her out on a date!'' Sakura explained.
''Do you think it would be wrong?'' Kakashi asked suddenly.
''You like Tsunade-sama? No way!''
''No, I am asking about your opinion on relationships that can't last.''
''Any relationship can last if you make an effort.''
Kakashi shrugged like Sakura expected. She concluded single men didn't see the weddings the same as single women.
''If you prefer dark-haired women, I heard Shizune-senpai talking about a grey-haired shinobi who got her attention.''
''Jiraiya-sama has grey hair.''
Sakura couldn't believe Kakashi was now as confident as Hinata ten years ago.
''Sure, she likes him and not you!''
''Now that's a bit hypocritical,'' Kakashi scolded her. ''Why wouldn't someone as young as Shizune like someone as old as Jiraiya-sama?''
Sakura rolled her eyes.
''I don't see how any woman could choose Jiraiya-sama over you, Kakashi-sama!''
''According to his books, many.''
Since Sakura hasn't read any of Kakashi's favourite titles, she couldn't share her opinion. She doubted Jiraiya was describing himself as what he really was-unsuccessful women-lover.
''He is not my type,'' she finally said.
''Then who is your type?''
''Sasuke!''
Ignoring Kakashi's question and the fact she screamed Sasuke's name in front of everybody, Sakura ran to greet her beloved fiancé.
''We are not alone,'' he whispered when she released him.
When she glanced around the room, all eyes were on her and her face went crimson.
They could show a bit more understanding! They haven't seen each other for days! And they had to be formal the rest of the day and tomorrow! And he was finally here and she didn't have to be alone with his parents any more!
''She is glad because Sasuke doesn't have to visit hospital,'' Sakura heard Tsunade's explanation to Fugaku and Hiashi.
''That's true,'' she whispered so only Sasuke could hear her.
He smirked.
''Maybe I let you to give me a check up.''
''I missed you too,'' she said quietly, then switched her attention to Tsunade. ''Do you have a lot left?''
''We are done actually,'' Tsunade said. ''We are ready for your directives.''
Finally Sakura was in the spotlight for the right reason.
''Would you be the one handing Hinata's hand over, Hyuuga-san?''
''There is nothing to hand over,'' Neji snorted before his uncle could reply. ''She agreed to this marriage long time ago.''
''Well, yeah,'' Sakura stuttered, surprised by that comment, ''but it's a tradition and-''
''By the way, wouldn't that look like she is being dragged to stand by Itachi-san?'' Hanabi added.
''Well, when you put it that way-''
''It will be fine if she walks on her own,'' Hiashi concluded before Sakura could say anything.
This would last forever and Sakura wouldn't have time she planned to spend with Sasuke! And he was home again and she was about to commend his behaviour in Suna. No wonder she couldn't hold back from hugging Naruto when he had told her Sasuke refused to fight, no matter how persistent Naruto had been.
With every single change about the ceremony, she was aware she wouldn't get enough sleep in order to explain everything to bride's maids and the bride herself.
''Hanabi, do you mind taking over your sister's role for a moment?''
''And the groom?'' Kakashi asked.
''I will think of something!'' Sakura smiled warily.
Neji didn't look interested to participate and there weren't many younger men who could replace Itachi for a moment. Except one.
''Sasuke.''
''Wh-what?'' he spluttered in surprise.
''Oh come on now!'' Sakura pleaded. ''It will be just for awhile, so we can get the whole picture for tomorrow. Who should be Itachi-san instead of you?''
Everybody agreed with Sakura except Sasuke, but he reluctantly stood next to Hanabi, unable to oppose to Sakura's suggestion.
''Perfect!'' Hiashi said.
Sakura didn't get why he was so thrilled about. Same like Fugaku, until Mikoto nudged him. Neji was suppressing laughter and Sasuke was evidently uncomfortable while everyone were staring at him.
Needless to say Hanabi and Sasuke really looked like younger versions of Hinata and Itachi.
''The hands,'' Sakura said to end the awkward silence and put her palms together to demonstrate what she expected from Sasuke and Hanabi.
''It's not necessary!'' Sasuke said to overly enthusiastic Hanabi, who shrugged after Sasuke's rejection.
''He is taken, Hanabi,'' Kakashi said.
''And she is my apprentice,'' Tsunade added.
''And they are engaged!'' Mikoto said.
This was strange. Was Sakura acting extremely jealous and possessive, so everybody had to warn Hanabi? How did Sakura look on the outside? Concerned, seeing Hanabi as a threat? She was Hyuuga, but she was so young. And she kind of resembled Hinata. She didn't make Sasuke to stand next to her so she could get ideas! Like their fathers!
''It's a rehearsal, you can both relax,'' Sakura forced a smile. ''We are doing this to be prepared for the real thing tomorrow!''
''Exactly!'' Sasuke said and Sakura was grateful he thought of Hanabi as an obligation, not option.
''What are you waiting for? Start, Kakashi-sama!'' Sakura ordered.
''You sure are a bossy type,'' Kakashi said.
Sasuke and his family didn't find Kakashi's comment funny. She was becoming a bit nervous. She had to order around so everything could be perfect for Hinata. She wasn't sure if they didn't like Kakashi's teasing because they agreed or she wasn't bossy enough.
''Of course she is!'' Tsunade commended. ''If she hadn't been, Hinata wouldn't have picked her to be the maid of honour!''
''That's right,'' Mikoto smiled.
Great. Now if something goes wrong tomorrow, it will be Sakura's fault. Just great.
''Well, about the speech.''
''You didn't prepare it, did you?'' Sakura hissed.
''It's not nice to hear you have such a low opinion about me. Of course I prepared it, I wouldn't like to spoil it now for everyone to hear it.''
''Fine. It makes sense. So after Kakashi-sama says what he prepared in advance,'' Sakura looked at him pointedly, ''who will be the first one to greet everyone? Maybe you, Fugaku-san?''
''Wait a minute! Won't we hear the vows?''
''We discussed the vows, Mikoto-san, and Hinata didn't change her mind.''
''Very well,'' Mikoto shrugged.
''This whole wedding is a big cliché,'' Hanabi snorted, ''we don't need to hear more.''
''Hanabi,'' her father gave her glare.
''What?'' she rolled her eyes. ''I only say what everyone thinks!''
''That doesn't mean you should make your sister's wedding less important than it is,'' Hiashi said strictly.
''Whatever.''
Maybe it wasn't bad for Hinata's family to be here instead of near her. If Neji or Hanabi made an insinuating comment about arranged marriage and if Hinata heard it, Sakura didn't think it would be completely harmless. Hinata respected her cousin and loved her sister, they were family and their opinion mattered.
It seemed to Sakura both Neji and Hanabi were trying to allude to Hinata's marriage as the convenient one, happening because of duty instead of love. If Hinata knew what her closest family was thinking, it wasn't surprising she was so anxious about the wedding. The only one showing disapproval of that kind of opinion was Sasuke's mother, of course. No mother wanted her son to get married to someone who considered him as convenient instead of perfect. Then again, Hinata was doubting Itachi's feelings too, but Hinata's father didn't seem to care what was the reason for tomorrow's wedding.
Sakura was slowly realising everything Hinata feared. Cancellation would disappoint her father and only confirmed what Neji and Hanabi was hoping for. On top of it, Hinata truly cared for Uchiha heir and he could easily think the same as others.
''So let's imagine Hokage gave a speech,'' Sakura took over her role again. ''In my opinion it's better to hear the clans' rules, then advice from former clans' heirs.''
''I think so too,'' Fugaku said and Hiashi nodded to agree.
''Great!'' Sakura smiled. ''So after the question, I find cute if Kakashi-sama asks Hinata and-''
''What question?'' Fugaku demanded.
''The one if they are accepting each other,'' Mikoto explained to her husband.
''Of course they are!'' Hiashi snapped. ''Can't we skip that formality?''
''I am afraid we can't,'' Sakura said sheepishly, because Fugaku also seemed to share Hiashi's opinion.
''And why is that?'' Hyuuga head asked.
''Because there is another question that needs to be popped,'' Sakura shrugged.
Fugaku gave a sign to Hokage, Hiashi and Sakura to gather around to form a small circle, so nobody else could hear them.
''I really don't see the point,'' Fugaku said quietly. ''Everything is settled already, we didn't come all this way to play games with everyone.''
''I also think that,'' Hiashi said.
Why were they so upset over traditional and simple questions? Did they want to make the ceremony shorter? Or were they afraid to hear the answers?
''Sure,'' Tsunade rolled her eyes, ''let's take away that romantic moment! Heirs or not, they are people and they would like to have that day for themselves. For the rest of their life they will be formal and diplomatic.''
The men sighed, including Kakashi, but Sakura was grateful Tsunade didn't take away maybe Hinata's only opportunity to hear Itachi wanted to become her husband.
''You mentioned one more question,'' Hiashi looked at Sakura. ''What else is so important?''
Who knew Hiashi was also looking terrifying, despite his bright eyes?
''The tradition,'' Sakura managed to stammer.
''We need to make sure there is nobody who opposes to the marriage,'' Kakashi helped out.
''It's simple,'' Fugaku said to Hiashi. ''We put under genjutsu anyone who breathes during that question.''
Sakura couldn't take that as a joke. Until now, everything was implying both Fugaku and Hiashi knew something wasn't right, but instead of finding out, they decided to ignore it. No matter how jealous Hanabi might be, at least she was honest.
Not as nearly enthusiastic as before, Hiashi and Fugaku got back to their places and Sakura could proceed.
''Anyway,'' she smiled to encourage herself, ''after too much talking followed with a small kiss, the couple leaves to give regards to the people, for the first time as the clans' heirs!''
Everyone nodded, finally content with what Sakura said and she was breathing normally again.
''And the rest of us can get drunk?'' Neji asked sarcastically.
''Sure,'' Sakura smiled nervously, not having idea what she should say.
''There will be music, food and of course, the wedding cake. Not to mention conceited people who love sucking up. There won't be time for drinking,'' Mikoto said to unnecessarily rude Neji.
''Exactly,'' Hiashi agreed. ''This is a perfect chance to represent yourself in the best light. You too, Hanabi.''
''Are we done with the act?'' Sasuke asked. ''I feel like a puppet.''
''You are all free to go,'' Mikoto said. ''Or maybe hang out some more in the back room. I know dinner is only an expression, but I prepared snacks for everyone, so feel free to serve yourself. There is plenty of different delicacies and everyone will find something for themselves.''
That meant Sakura's job for tonight was done. All she had to do was threat Tsunade in case she would arrive late tomorrow, wish Mikoto goodnight and try to get some sleep. Oh yeah, and spend some time with Sasuke, before the worry over the wedding would occupy her completely.
In a few hours she wouldn't have to think about doing anything. It would be done. For the last six weeks she has been dreaming of tomorrow's night when she would crush on her bed, relived everything's over and put her life back to normal.
''What did you plan to say before, about being cute?'' Tsunade asked when everyone already left.
''Oh that!'' Sakura smiled because at least someone appreciated her ideas. ''You should ask Itachi-san about Hinata, and Kakashi-sama should do the same only with Hinata.''
''Good thinking,'' Tsunade commended. ''We will do it.''
''Thank you, Tsunade-sama!''
That was all Sakura could say, exhausted and almost discouraged.
''Go greet Uchihas,'' Kakashi reminded her.
''See you tomorrow,'' Sakura said before leaving, ''on time!''
She heard them both laughing behind her.
Around the table with snacks nobody was in the mood for giggling. She was pretending to look for Mikoto, while she was actually hoping to spot Sasuke. And she didn't. But Mikoto caught her ear.
''Hiashi.''
''Mikoto.''
''Can we talk in private?''
''Sure.''
Sakura didn't care about their personal disagreements, so she went looking for Sasuke. He promised to meet her later and now he left her again! She assumed he must be waiting somewhere where they could be alone for a while, so Sakura went outside. Unfortunately, she overheard Sasuke's mother's voice, somewhere in the distance, while she was talking with Hiashi.
''Hanabi's obvious jealousy must be under control tomorrow. I want everything to be perfect,'' Mikoto sounded upset.
''I thought you got used to it,'' Hiashi said plainly. ''I bet younger Sasuke feels neglected because of-''
''How dare you compare my younger son to your younger daughter? Nobody knows what Sasuke has done for his brother! He gladly postponed his own wedding for Itachi's sake!''
No.
Sakura misheard.
Mikoto wouldn't say something like that. Not to Hiashi and not to defend Sasuke. Even if the spoken was true, and it couldn't be, how Sakura didn't know about it? And all she could conclude was that Sasuke willingly gave up on their wedding so Itachi's could take place tomorrow.
Sakura went back inside, still in search for Sasuke. If he really had done what his mother said, Sakura would never again need to check up on him because he would be dead!
She was patient enough through all these years and she thought she deserved some credit, from Sasuke and his family. What did she get? Nothing! Hinata was in the spotlight and she would remain there forever!
She was an up-and-coming medical kunoichi until engagement with Sasuke. She changed her life for him. Was that what she really wanted? Did she need him that much that her wishes were unimportant?
Hinata was getting married because she was obligated to. Sakura wasn't. Maybe she would be fine without men. Like Ino, involved with men, but detached emotionally. Or like Temari, independent and strong. Was Sakura jealous of any of them? She wasn't, she was angry with Sasuke!
She turned her life upside down for this wedding just to make a favour to Hinata, to get Sasuke's mother to like her, so once she didn't have to feel unworthy!
She used her vacation!
She wasn't on a mission for weeks and she was saving money for her own wedding dress, big house and unplanned wedding expenses! And not only Sasuke postponed their wedding, he lied to her about the reason!
What kind of person would lie about that? It had to be her decision too! Or she was unimportant to him like she was to his family? Maybe he was waiting for someone better to come along instead of her!
Was she overreacting? How could she? She didn't know, and Sasuke was her fiancé, her best friend, her everything! She thought he didn't have to hide anything from her, especially not something as important as this! Unless-
Sakura didn't dare to think of it, but the thought already crossed her mind. Sasuke didn't tell her or asked for her opinion because he didn't want to marry her!
Maybe she should rethink everything and ask him about it tomorrow. She had enough problems on her mind already to deal with her own too. Then again, all of her effort was in vain if Sasuke didn't wish to marry her! She couldn't care less about his family's expectations from her if he wasn't planning his life to be spent with her by his side.
''Where are you going?''
She was lost in thought and she didn't notice Sasuke was looking for her. And he found her. And she was halfway through the district already.
''I have done my part. I am going home.''
''I thought it was early enough for us to be together some more.''
Half an hour ago she would have been the happiest girl in the world, hearing his suggestion. Now she couldn't pretend she didn't hear what was supposed to be a secret.
''If you feel like it,'' she shrugged.
In any other situation, Sakura couldn't wait to leave Uchiha district, so she could do whatever she wanted, usually including kissing and hugging. Because of the recent information she got, she wanted to scream and shout, but she didn't dare, not here and not now. Maybe she would never become Uchiha, but she was definitely thinking and acting as one already.
''May I ask you something?''
Sasuke usually wasn't this formal. He was calculating, but he would never make a big deal out of a simple question. Unless it wasn't simple!
''It's about the wedding. Our wedding,'' he stressed.
Instead of angry, Sakura was feeling anxious! She just found out Sasuke was the one who delayed their wedding and now he wanted to talk about it! Months ago, when she thought everything was perfect between them, he was trying hard to avoid talking about their wedding, always changing the subject, saying it was too early. Maybe the right time would never come, according to him! Or the right time didn't exist.
''I know,'' she sighed. ''You don't want to marry me.''
''What?''
She realised it was all making her sad more than angry. Sasuke would never appreciate her efforts because she couldn't become somebody else.
''I know I will never be good enough and I am already the best I can be.''
''Sakura, what are you talking about?''
''I know, Sasuke,'' she said quietly, ''I know everything about this wedding.''
''And what is that?'' he asked impatiently.
''You could have just told me you didn't want to marry me,'' she shrugged, staring at the ground.
''Where did you get that idea?''
''It's obvious. You-''
''I don't know what you've been told, but at least hear me out before jumping to conclusions. Especially this drastic.''
''Okay then,'' she took a deep breath. ''Why isn't our wedding tomorrow?''
''We went through that topic million times,'' he sounded annoyed.
''I know. And you lied to me. Every single time.''
''Wh-what?''
Small, ironic laugh made Sasuke frown.
''All this time I despised clan's rules, hated your brother and envied Hinata, and I should have been mad at you.''
''What are you talking about?''
''Sasuke, who decided about this wedding?'' she asked seriously. ''Don't make it worse by lying. I know it was you.''
''Where did you get that from?''
''Your mother.''
''Why did she tell you, I-''
''So it is true.''
She wished she didn't interrupt him. He couldn't deny it, only staring at her.
''Sakura.''
She was angry, tired and disappointed and all of it in the middle of Uchiha district and she desperately needed to run away!
''Sakura, wait.''
Before she could make a single step to get away from the ugly truth that was awaiting her now when she brought it up, Sasuke hugged her.
At the moment she totally hated the fact he was bigger than her. And much stronger.
''Let go of me.''
She couldn't make it sound like an order because he was hugging her after quite some time. And she missed him so much.
''I can't.''
Of course he could. He only didn't want her to make a scene. Damn Uchiha and his pride!
''Not until you get your answers,'' he said simply.
She swallowed. Was she ready to hear the truth that might change their relationship?
''You said so many unreasonable things in so little time,'' she heard disapproval in his voice. ''What does need to be explained right now?''
Sakura knew well what it was. Without further delay, she would find out tonight.
''Why did you postpone our wedding?''
With a deep sigh, he relaxed his grip and she looked up at him. He was already looking down at her and if they were only an inch closer, his lips would easily made her forget about everything she'd heard. A small smile crossed his face before he wrapped his arms around her back more firmly and lean his head on hers.
Maybe he missed her too. Angry or not, she was feeling comfortable in his embrace, in the middle of the street and in the middle of their quarrel. She carefully put her arms around his waist and at the same moment felt his warm breath near her ear.
''Did you see for yourself today how Hinata's family is treating her?'' he asked quietly.
''Uh-huh,'' she nodded into his shirt.
He lowered his head to continue whispering.
''Now imagine that kind of torture for every single day for the last six months from the people who should support you and love you. I witnessed it and never hated the clan so much. As much as I wanted to be like Itachi, I never wanted to be him, an actual heir. I wouldn't last, not even for five minutes.''
This was a huge confession coming from Sasuke. Sakura was sure nobody except her would hear it again.
''Would you put him through more waiting and anxiety so we could become a married couple?''
Sakura almost replied something stupid, but Sasuke's words stopped her.
''Don't get this wrong, our own wedding is the most important to me, but I couldn't miss the opportunity to make Itachi's life a bit more bearable considering everything he's done for me. And not only for me, but for the clan, the village and I was feeling obligated to not take his kindness for granted.''
It made sense. It was always like that. Itachi was Sasuke's idol ever since childhood years. No wonder Sasuke owed him more than one favour. Now when Sakura thought of it, Mikoto sounded like she was grateful Sasuke had postponed their wedding.
''Do I need to point out nobody deserves that kind of treatment? Heirs or not, both Hinata and Itachi are people and have the right to live a happy life. Too many people don't think that way and I didn't know you were among them.''
''I am not!'' she hissed quietly. ''Of course everyone needs to be happy!''
''By being Hinata's maid of honour, you should understand my decision better.''
She was feeling like an idiot. Why couldn't she figure it out by herself? Sasuke was right. Hinata was counting days so she could be what she wanted to be-kunoichi, with her obligations just like every other girl. That was the reason to pick Sakura to be her help, because she would understand. Or at least try to be supportive. Sakura was pretending to care for her own good, while Sasuke forgot about nonsense rivalry with his brother to make his life a bit easier to bear.
''I thought you knew me well enough that you would never doubt my decision which was, I would dare to say, the most selfless one I have made in my life.''
Now she was feeling like a selfish and immature child and Sasuke wise and generous. She obviously wasn't thinking clearly with so much tension about heirs marriage.
Sakura looked at her beloved Uchiha, smiling sheepishly. His smile was much warmer, full of understanding.
''You are being silly sometimes, you know that?''
By saying that, he pecked her lightly on both cheeks.
''Sorry,'' she muttered.
''Anyway, I am glad you now know everything,'' he shrugged, ''and I only wanted to find out why you weren't talking about our wedding so much lately.''
''So you noticed?'' she asked, surprised.
''Of course I did! I thought I have done something and this was a new way of mental tormenting!''
''I didn't want to bore you,'' she said simply.
''I found it strange, not knowing for the first time what are you up to while away from me.''
''Hinata taught me to cook,'' Sakura admitted, chuckling.
''You cooked?'' he asked with a sneer.
''Yeah,'' she said dreamily, remembering well those happy moments, ''and not only that! Ino thaught us both to dance and our kissing-''
''What? Did you just say kissing?''
Great. Just great. She planned to accent her new bond with Ino and touch upon kissing, once, definitely not now! Since she wasn't thinking while blabbering, she needed different tactics. And fast!
''What?'' Sasuke repeated his question. ''Are you saying you kissed someone else?''
Denying now meant lying and she just learned it was better to confess everything to avoid misunderstandings. So Sakura took a deep breath and smiled warily.
''I did.''
By Sasuke's terrified expression, she concluded she must have said too cheerfully. She wasn't feeling regret until now, but she was feeling guilty because she made Sasuke worried.
Knowing the damage has been already done, she tried to explain her action.
''It didn't mean anything!''
Nothing. Those words didn't get through to him and his grip around her came loose.
''It was only Ino!''
Sakura's excuse wasn't good enough; Sasuke already slipped through her fingers.
She hated herself so much, but she couldn't take back what she'd said. Or what she had done, willingly and more than once.