Terribly, terribly sorry for the delay in update!
I don't think I can apologize enough but please do forgive me for the long wait for being busy. (and it's getting busier these days)
Aside from that, I've gotta thank the REVIEWERS! Much appreciated for the support in giving this story some reviews! Love them and love you more!
REPLY TO REVIEW:
NuDo: Hello darling! Thanks so much for the reviews and I am so thankful for your each and every review you've given me. And it showed so much encouragement for me as a writer and it means A LOT! Honest!
It has been too long for me to take the time to reply to reviews and this time I cannot afford to NOT make a few comments and chat a little because it's not nice. Anyway, love you so much and you've been an amazing darling, dear!
Wish you all the best and good luck in the things you do ( in your studies, making friends, projects and etcetera! )
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Just to chat a little; I didn't know what's up with my account but hopefully nothing bad is happening to the system or else it's EEEEEPPPPSSS! for me! Your review didn't auto pop into me mail and I took the initiative one day to be a little nosy at my own stuff and WHOA a new review and it's from you!
Love it! Love the excitement of surprise and love the way you make it happen!
Thanks so much again and hope we can still get in touch with you writing in and me writing back like this!
Feels great!
Hope you have a great day as well! :D
SUNNY DAYS!
(Sweet Seventy)
Six…
This…Is What We Were Fighting For
.
She stared into those dark eyes.
There was nothing she feared not even the slightest ounce of it no matter how threatening those eyes despite the overwhelming air coming from them. Like Haruno Sakura; she puts up a brave front. It's an unavoidable struggle since their minds that clashed and resisted to accept one another's.
But somehow…one has to give in, Sakura thought.
Because the woman she confronted was none other than a family;
His mother;
Her mother.
That was enough reason for her to withdraw taking a stand. However, this decision wasn't something she could simply agree to. Quickly, she took another glance onto the document set before her.
Divorce
She could not bear to pronounce that string of letters even if it was by heart alone; the idea never crossed her neither did she thought it could be as quickly. As she stared at them, her heart would quiver along with a sickening sensation that spread from the point of her chest.
It was most difficult.
Nevertheless, she cannot allow such emotions to engulf her perfect composure and defeat her into submission. The pressure was no less eating her from within due to a disharmonious conflict of decisions that were battling in her mind.
And one of them was to pick up a pen and by the flick of her wrist, sign the paper.
That…would be the end of her happiness.
So why consider?
Why?
No doubt she had an answer; thinking that this would be an opportunity for Sasuke; thinking that this was for the better because she loved him too much, so much she had to give up on him.
Though happiness was short but it was fulfilling. Should that be enough for someone as her?
What if she had grown to be greedy?
"I am Uchiha Mikoto."
The woman of black and elegance initiated surprisingly as she put up a brief introduction with her name only and nothing more of the unnecessary. Sakura remained silent bearing the same thought; her introduction wasn't needed anyhow when whom she is was obvious. And without further delay, Mikoto spoke,
"I would like you to give up on my son, Uchiha Sasuke."
Her persistence was clearly lined in speech and determined to have her wish provided for. It was demand.
Above everything else, her onyx eyes; the ones that Sasuke had the same but not the ones that were strict and cold like hers. Both of parent and child could have differences as great, Sakura thought at the same time she was glad.
The rosette fixated her gaze at the woman, politely,
"May I ask the reason?"
And Mikoto didn't hesitate to state,
"Sasuke is the only one I have now. I want him to take over the Uchiha business, have a proper family and carry on the name," she paused while looking deeply into her listener's greens. "I am sure someone as smart as you are…should understand what I mean."
Isn't that obvious…?
Of course it is; right from the beginning.
Sakura didn't know where to look except the woman at present with pressuring gazes. This conversation would grow unavoidable and suffocating, she predicts and it started to take effect as well. And then, it sparked her mind to one thing that she needed answers for,
"Why Laila?"
There was a small lump in her throat as soon as she raised the question. It was important that she knew and Mikoto not once she was surprised by it, on the contrary, expecting.
"Laila's family and ours had agreed to marry our children from birth. Due to unforeseen circumstances and turnabout events that happened tragically in the past, the Uchiha family has been separated into the state of being at lost!"
Her speech was confident without a second of hesitation to every sentence; as if it was narrated from memory. A fact! Continuously,
"It was by miracle that I could still meet with my children despite it was sad on Itachi's case. I cannot lose Sasuke as well!"
Like how Mikoto portrays herself to be a distinguished woman; her voice, her deepening frown and her absoluteness could put someone into speechless state. She was firm and could make it all happen when she wanted to like what is happening now. She…is a fearful woman.
More to it when she could abruptly lower her tone into whisper demandingly,
"So please, Miss Haruno!"
Sakura sighed tiredly.
She was tired both body and mind from the crushing pressure where her muscles grew tense and especially at that formal tone she was addressed of.
Distinguish her identity strictly as a Haruno; she wasn't acknowledged, not as a daughter. She wasn't favoured at all which made it harder for her to imagine becoming a family.
The rosette swallowed a painful lump that could not be removed any easier now. It hurts…no matter how much she swallowed and she felt her chest that grew heavier from the stiffening atmosphere. Moreover, she is becoming indecisive. Why is that?
If it wasn't for her useless body, she needn't choose! She never wanted to…
She wanted to disappear, quit all this talk and leave for home! She wouldn't want to listen to anything else except for Sasuke's voice. She just wanted to be peaceful in the arms of that man.
To have him all for herself, was that greed? Is it a difficult wish so hard that fate could not bind her to it well?
What sin had she committed to deserve a second punishment?!
How are they going to be separated again? For how longer now?
The pinkette was dissatisfied, definitely; she felt the anger and a handful of hatred rushed in her mind before everything sank into sadness. Her eyes were soaked; wanting to cry when she could barely force them back into hiding. She is doing her best but it was too late.
Staring down at that piece of document she softly cried; she bothered about nothing else but shed tears. Never was she this honest with her feelings before, never. She never showed tears no matter what pitiable state she was in…but not this.
Not this!
"Please don't cry," Mikoto said monotonously. "If it wasn't for my family's sake, I wouldn't do this."
Merciless!
What great pain has come to torment her that Sakura had to clutch her heart and clenched her teeth as she weep. She silently done it; she was too grief stricken in her chair she could barely able to read her surroundings. How shameful to be crying in public!
But what does that matter now?
And,
What was it that kept her from refusing Mikoto when it was as simple to say 'no'? Say it! Refuse Mikoto! There were no obstacles to speak up her mind unless it was for,
Hesitance.
For deep down in the bottom of her heart, there was consideration to give in. For Sasuke's future!
"Please don't fight it, Miss Haruno. I believe someone such as your status there are many other suitors who are more suitable."
Stop it.
"The Uchiha family is nothing but small compared to the Harunos and other outstanding families. Surely, they have more to benefit from."
Stop it!
It's not about status and benefits! Can't this woman understand?
Does she know no love?
"I really like him."
The Haruno pinkette lifted her head at Laila who abruptly voiced her thoughts; a surprising confession that Sakura had forgotten of her presence. The pinkette knitted her brows lightly from the dislike that started to grow towards Laila. And Laila acted shamelessly, confessing more,
"I truly like Sasuke-kun. I do not hide the fact that I have since the day I begin at Brown's. I don't dislike you but…I disliked how Sasuke-kun was left to suffer because of you, Sakura-chan."
Laila paused a while,
"Therefore…forgive me."
Sakura roughly smudged her tears away and she stared at Laila;
Forgive?
What was there to forgive when the girl had no sincerity to ask for it! Sakura lowered her eyes, aware of the sensation that hatred had clouded her and she knew anger. She terribly is!
Laila dared speak with a straight face; there wasn't an ounce of guilt written anywhere. So don't say sorry! It's disgusting!
"Please divorce Sasuke-kun."
Never!
Sakura instantly turned towards the deep voice that spoke. She didn't gasp or manage a word at the sight of the scarlet haired male that made his presence with a heroic air. Indeed he IS her hero no matter when or how far, Sasori never failed to show up at the appropriate time of need.
She was suffering from the endless pressure that had driven her surrendering to her knees. She didn't want all this; not when she was forced upon. She is fragile after all…
Both Mikoto and Laila directed to the scarlet male as well as Sasori approached at generous paces. Just as composed every time with that up straight back, he was donned with superiority that both ladies had their lips sealed but stare.
"Never."
Sasori pronounced with a rich tone; repeating and ending the word crisply. He glared at Laila the next moment excluding his politeness and etched a frown,
"I object this one sided decision. Above everything else, a divorce will never happen. I will see to my Lady's happiness to the end!"
"Sa-chan…"
He is truly her hero; when words failed her, he spoke them, lift her high when she fell low, did all her dirty work, take all the shame and defend her from haters. He is her most reliable person and it may seem unfair. Sakura honestly felt selfish about it but if it wasn't for him…so please forgive her for using him.
"Now would you excuse us kind ladies, Sakura-sama is a busy person. Good day."
Sasori made bowed shortly then swiftly took his Miss into his arms without bothering to ask any permission. There was no need and no time when he has leave as soon as he could. Stealthily he paced away until he was stopped.
It was Mikoto; she stood to her feet. A tall person she is and never ceased to be elegant despite her unsatisfied behavior. Her dark brows furrowed narrowly at the leaving butler she sees as rude.
"You're running away, Haruno!"
And reactively, Sasori turned around with a straightforward attitude from dislike he said,
"Please reconsider your actions, madam. Telling someone to give up on her husband is terrible shame!"
He didn't bother manners. He didn't bother etiquette. He dared speak his mind in defense of his Miss. He will see to it…everything that his Miss loves. For he loves her more than anyone else. This was a happy moment for him; it was when he could shine the best during Sakura's darkest moment. He would protect her…out of the heart of a lover.
Sadly an unrequited one. She knows. He knows. It's a relationship far beyond impossible and it has left as they are now. Whatever they are; they are just together. That's enough for him.
However right now, he had to hold her tightly; protectively in his arms as he hastily left and take her to a place that no harm could bring towards her.
.
"Sa-chan," she delicately called but her butler didn't bother to answer.
He moved in silence; very quickly as well as though he was in a hurry.
"Sa-chan," again and again he didn't reply.
"Sa-chan!"
She isn't a patient person and she would not tolerate being ignored consecutively as such especially when it was by intention. Sasori did and for her to not understand his cold responses irritated her. She grew grumpy and tried wriggling free out of his aid. Not when he persistently refused to let her go.
"Put me down, Sa-chan! Put me down, I say!" the rosette struggled effortlessly and she continued on her attempts until he decided to listen.
"Alright!" in his unsatisfied tone, he set the stubborn female onto the ground.
"What's the matter with you?! Did you follow me again?!" the little Haruno yelled furiously. "I told you to quit that didn't I?!"
Sasori was silent; watched her frown constantly and listened to irritated words of his Miss out of sheer frustration. Not at him but herself. She was mad at herself, dissatisfied at herself and confused.
Above all, she wanted to give up.
Silently at heart, he was greatly saddened. For his Miss once again had to suffer another chapter of unhappiness. He approached the female currently with a rejecting attitude and he purposefully did not spare pity words at her,
"Come!"
Strictly, the scarlet male ordered after he was a step ahead of her and as expected, the female would be against it.
Usually, Sasori would gently plead her in order to gain her obedience but not today. He cared not if he forcefully grabbed her small wrist, be it fragile, he took her roughly and never like a caretaker would. Surely she screamed and struggled more. He dragged her with him only for a short distance before releasing his grip.
Sakura fell onto the ground cushioned by fallen autumn leaves on her bottom. They were at a park she soon realized; she minded about nothing else that was around her except fixate daggering glares at the male.
Sasori was seriously cruel, she thought angrily and more when he gave her no aid to lift her. He even dare look inferiorly at her,
"What were you thinking, Haruno Sakura?" and mentioned her full name!
"Mind your tongue Sasori!" she growled lowly.
"I will speak because I am dissatisfied. Disappointed!" he paused momentarily. "You were about to sign that didn't you, Sakura-sama…?" his voice saddened at the end.
Obviously.
The pinkette's abrupt response-less reaction tells. It was apparent at her facial emotion despite it was an almost expressionless one. He knew her too well to be able to study her flawless gestures and she could put all effort to conceal it better.
However,
She did not do so.
"Yes."
She shot her glossy green eyes from the tears that she withheld.
"Yes, I was."
Again, she confirmed her deed to him. She had no intention to hide from him but she was about to cry. She honestly told him but did her best not to cry, so much that her eyes were taking a shade of red so does her nose.
If that was the case then,
Please cry.
It was harder to see her being difficult.
Sasori lowered himself to meet his Miss' eyes. She never changed. Stubborn as always and selfishly decide on things. He removed his leather glove before he reached out to wipe away tears that overflowed from her eyes. Sakura held those large gentle hands then softly she cried; pouring all her feelings that had grown too much to keep. She let him see her ugliest side; the scene when she is at her lowest.
"Sakura-sama…" the kind butler called whisperingly and the little female turned to him in response.
He smiled at first and dried more of her tears that he hated to see.
"Look, Sakura-sama…"
Sasori pointed, directing her gaze into a distance; not too far from where they were, she saw and finally noticed her surroundings. It's the old race track Sasuke usually comes for laps and she would stay to watch him run. There weren't many people who would pay this place a visit but on certain occasions like this when it was as beautiful, they would come to watch the autumn leaves rain.
The place became a copper wonderland; surrounded by thickened trees and in the middle an opening of a vast sky. It had a different feeling to it as if being here…it's a different world.
And there,
Sasuke. Phil. Kiba. Uncle Brown. Surprisingly, Naruto with Bolt and Himawari. And a whole lot of fun, Akamaru.
All of them were having their time under the sky, running on a bed of leaves they played Frisbee in an autumn day like this. They didn't care about the weather, they didn't care about being noisy they just…didn't.
It has been so long…
"Can you see it, Sakura-sama?" Sasori uttered softly in the midst of her observation.
Not too far from them yet far enough to stay hidden behind trees, they stood to watch. Sasori intended to. He will make her see it; holding her hand, he accompanied her in silence as she continued to admire the happening joy of her family out there.
Yes.
Her family.
Ah…so this was Sa-chan's intention.
Sakura closed her eyes, let her last tear to fall, sighed then she opened them again. Indeed, this was no dream. The happiness before her is real. She had forgotten…no…she almost…gave it up.
All of it.
"Look, Sakura-sama…Isn't this what you wanted?" Sasori said pausing,
This…is what you've been fighting for?
"Do you want this to be a moment's happiness?"
Of course not…
"Don't you want to be happy for as long as you live?"
Definitely.
"Have you forgotten the struggle when you tried your best to recover just so you could spend the rest of your life with him? Haven't you made your life for him?"
Yes.
Yes it is.
Ten years it was. It was…long enough.
Sa-chan.
He was right.
He always was and he never stopped to pull her to her feet; remind her when she turned forgetful. He never failed to beat good sense into her when she turned stupid. He was always…always so faithful that it's guilty to keep him.
And he would look at her in the eyes, with his, strongly staring into hers he would deliver his thoughts; speak his mind and say words that would hurt her twice as badly.
It's natural.
Truths always hurt.
So listen to this;
"There are no guidelines to happiness as long as you can think what is best that could make you happy. THAT is happiness. Don't be blinded by details because when you do, you might miss the important things. Sometimes the smallest and trivial things could be big things that could make happiness come as great."
For someone as stubborn, Sakura listened. On occasions she would and without her being sharp tongued, she could be as beautiful and innocent with keen emeralds and youthful features. She is…truly a beauty like her mother and Sasori would be mesmerized into captivity for the moment. But her shook it off and faced her properly,
"Tell him."
Sakura looked at her butler with surprised eyes and an expression of uncertainty. What this butler is thinking, she could not read his ideas. He doesn't make her guess often, it was her who was careless and she admitted it.
Sorry but not today, Sa-chan. She's just too tired to think.
"Tell him about everything; about Uncle Brown, your worries, your inabilities, the divorce. Be honest with yourself. Trust Sasuke, have more faith in this marriage. It's something not bind by a single piece of paper, it's more than that. You should know better."
He watched her doubt surface in her mind again and he will not allow it,
"You won't regret it. It will prove to you how much you're worth. How you're irreplaceable to play your part in this story."
He held,
"Don't let suddenness cloud your judgment. Think carefully. What do you want?"
His words captured her attention before a confused expression began to surface. He knows she'll do her best. After all, he believed in her more than she does to herself. She knows the answer to that; he smiled when her eyes began to brim with returning confidence and he felt her grip around his hand tightened.
It's a sign that she'll do it.
And it will be his duty to assist her.
Alongside her, he held her hand as she took the lead in this walk where they decided to approach the people out there from their hiding. Everyone were delighted at the sight of their presence especially young Phil who ran to receive an embrace from his sister. Sakura equally returned his sincerity; she was no less surprised to see him present to think he should be at the mansion during this hour.
"I finished lessons quickly so I can come over to play!" Phil clarified cheerfully. She smiled at his innocent adorableness then stroked his soft dark hair.
If everyone could stay as naïve and innocent, wouldn't that be wonderful?
Last but not least, she brought herself to set her gaze at the male who finally approached. Despite his towering height Sasuke never failed to emit gentleness and so does his smile that was always so kind.
"You are late."
The Uchiha said in the littlest monotone.
"I thought it would be quicker if Sasori-san were to pick you up from wherever you've gone off on your own," and added jokingly.
Sakura felt her chest thump slightly out of nervousness; the second their eyes meet, she was nervous and the tension came up to her when her husband behaved in his unusual way. As if he knew matters hidden in her head and out of conscience she grew even more tensed.
Would he not question to what she had been up to earlier?
He wouldn't, she knew confidently because he is this sort of man and not the man to leave it alone. Sasuke is…considerate. Too much that he could just end up waiting without gaining answers. Worried? He definitely was despite he tried not to show and he was getting skillful at it these days.
Because of that, it became her duty to tell him.
"Sasuke-kun…"
"Come Sakura-chan. We're all on a Frisbee picnic!" the raven male abruptly expressed in excitement.
She didn't expect it; that jolly behavior of a façade only clenched her heart.
It was guilt.
The guilt that eats from the inside and that it repeats in the back of the mind. A replay of her deeds whenever the chance and it'll make her all queasy inside that it felt nauseating. It's a silly thing when it was from the past. But it not something that simple to forget and she kept blaming herself for her silly actions. It hurts badly when it could really sting and it digs deep down inside the heart where she couldn't heal it and the more she kept quiet hesitating to tell him.
She had to tell him. But before she could confess,
Sasuke already took her by the hand and they went out into the vast open.
The children: Phil, Bolt and Himawari joined the fun as well and it was exciting to watch the trio getting ahead with their friendship. It was Sakura's first time with Frisbees; it wasn't hard though but she was still clumsy at her throws. She was pretty much overwhelmed at watching Akamaru succeed catching at most of the throws.
It was all new to her.
And of course despite this unsuited chilly weather, the rest of them; Uncle Brown, Naruto and Kiba made themselves comfortable while savoring warm sake and snacks they prepared. They are serious about the picnic under the falling leaves and shared an amount of laughter.
Sounds ridiculous?
Well, guess they are just…happy people and it could not stop a smile that graced the pinkette's lips unconsciously.
Everything around her…is real.
It is a peaceful day. Every day.
"Sakura-chan."
She heard him and didn't turn to him right away after waiting shortly. She smiled at his presence where kindness was part of his being and his returned smile before he would lower himself to meet her eyes.
It was a good moment of silence where the wind blew between them as they listened to the sound of rustling leaves before they came showering all over; it was all about the sensation of love.
She would gladly indulge in this timeless moment a little longer if she didn't need to speak with him as soon. She hesitated a bit whether or not to interrupt this soothing present and did,
"Sasuke-kun…"
Audibly at just the right tone she began but before she could speak, she was gently held in the arms of her lover and he carried her with him. He walked a distance so that they could be alone from the animation that went on without them as if he understood what she needed most.
Like he knew…He knew that she had something to tell him and she almost forgotten about overlapped by amounts of happiness.
He walked and further he walked, the rosette gently rest her head against his shoulder and wholly intake whatever gentle sensation there was. She is getting too used to this; pampered with too much affection from this man that she had grown too greedy.
Close her eyes she whispered his name another time,
"Sasuke-kun…"
"Hmm?" his gentle reply, almost inaudible.
They arrived in the world of their own; with no one, nothing unnecessary and it was all them. Sasuke cradled her like a child delicate in his arms and Sakura didn't mind being honest yearning for him and the two drifted off deeper into a space of their own.
They stopped to listen to the howling wind that picked up abruptly before it tamed because of the current, they came to see the shifting clouds that moved quickly from its motionless pace. It was an invaluable experience; together they watch the same thing, tap into the same feeling and wonder the same thought.
It was silence that made this chance.
It was…precious.
And it is time to speak.
The petite Haruno straightened her back to meet her husband's waiting onyxes and onyxes that reminded her of that identical pair she met earlier.
"I am surprised that everyone is here," then gazed afar.
"It wasn't planned at all. We bumped into Naruto and the kids on our way back from Uncle's medical check-up and suggested the picnic. It was just in time when Kiba brought Akamaru along and Phil dropped in too. That's how we ended up all together," chuckle the Uchiha.
Sakura giggled as well,
"Everything sounded so well planned. Coincidence is scary, huh?"
"Yeah, it sure does…" he chuckled lightly.
"Oh, it's been a while since Akamaru dropped by," the pinkette expressed her joy to see the active canine endlessly moving about and playing with the children afar.
"Yeah…" he smiled.
Then once again, silence drew by shortly as they stood to watch the rest where they didn't participate. It was long silence; where the both of them just watched whatever there was…whatever. Because this moment of togetherness; it was when the two could see things on equal grounds, the things they see are…the same. Until Sasuke decided that it was interrupt.
"Let's adopt one."
In his gentlest voice that faded into the background moments after but his words remained in memory. He paused to turn towards the female with eyes that waits for an agreement. Sakura didn't mind the idea of it then said,
"But I thought Uncle Brown objects keeping pets in the shop,"
She said giggling a little and watched her husband grew a blush as his eyes darted away for a moment.
She watched him hesitate while his shyness badly grew before he brought up the courage to clear her misunderstanding.
"A baby I mean…"
Sakura was instantly speechless.
Her mouth was agape from the astonishment and her jaw that hung loosely into a period of time; long enough and finally she got an answer. Cupped her mouth out of that overflowing happiness and her face that glowed in merry colour; she was happy and this was one of the joyous moments. His consent was the least she expected at a time like this it was a surprise indeed and a good one too.
To think he wouldn't have considered.
Smiling at each other, they were both glad at their decision. It was…a decision that they needed and Sakura could not thank him enough for this. Still she needed to tell him,
"Sasuke-kun, I have a confessio—"
"I know."
Without bothering to allow her sentence to properly end, the raven male said with a smirk. What does he know? The pinkette could not completely trusts what he nodded confidently at.
"You knew?" she expressed confusingly.
He nodded affirmatively again and smiled with his soften onyxes fixate at her and,
"I know."
Again, he said.
"No you don't."
She said disbelievingly. He could not possibly guess moreover read her mind!
"I do. I know what you wanted to say." He made an interval of a pause then said, "So it's okay…really…"
His tenderly tone and that kind smile he wore only piled her guilt inside of her. No. No. Of course he couldn't have guessed what she was trying to say…does he? But he does sound as if he had a clue.
Her short pink eyebrows arched painfully at her positive husband,
"Please don't be so kind Sasuke-kun. Sometimes you'll get nothing for being too kind…" her voice began to crack.
She became heartbroken at the sight of this wonderful man; if she weren't so incapable, he wouldn't have to lose as much. What does he know? Please don't smile and nodded as if everything could be as easy, Sasuke-kun!
Belittle him she did; he did had a clue.
At his gentlest and kindest touch, the Uchiha lowered his head to place a kiss on her belly. To her utmost surprise, Sakura jerked gaspingly. She hardly expects her husband to do so and it pained her even more. Although she knew he did it out of kindness yet she could not suppress the hurt that swells in her chest.
Her body is inferior yet he still loves her.
"It's okay. I know. We know. It's okay so…you don't have to work so hard for what you can't, Sakura-chan. Because I don't mind. I don't mind if we couldn't have children and I don't expect it from you. Never."
"I am not looking down on you," Sasuke quickly added. "I am just reminding you that…we were prepared for this. We agreed to this. You. Me. Just the two of us. Life goes on."
"Isn't that more important? Happiness that is. What's most important is staying alive and healthy!" he expressed his thoughts louder to ensure that the female in tears is listening. "Didn't Orochimaru-sensei tell you that? And you were pretty cruel to leave me out on your latest examination, huh…"
Another surprise!
"How did—" the unexpectedness made her tongue tied and it pleases the raven to see her astonished expression.
Sasuke smiled.
"I am your husband. I have the right to know. Everything that is going on about you. Whatever even if you're unwell or unable to bear children I have the duty to understand you. So please don't be upset."
He didn't clarify his methods but surely someone must have told him behind her back. He may not be as smart but he could be as sharp when he needed to be. Someone must have told him; she felt betrayed but…this could be an exception.
"Of course I would. All women would want to bear the child of the man she loves. It's natural!" she frowned unhappily, turning away to avoid her husband's gaze.
"And it's natural for me to say no. I am okay. We are. So it's okay, okay?" he made her look at him in the eye by force,
"If you think an adoption is the essence to happiness. Do so. I am not going to stop you because I love you. Telling you that I agree is the act of my love for you. There is no other way I know how to prove it to you."
But,
"Above everything else…I am glad that you were fighting for me. I am deeply touched that you're willing to give me a family. So it's my turn to give you assurance, tell you: don't worry and I love You."
Sakura wanted to cry, for this man she wanted to express how grateful she is and felt sorry for him that he was unlucky to have her as his wife. It was agreed that they will be partners for the rest of their lives despite the good times and the bad ones and all the good they have and the limits they are born with.
Although it wasn't the end of what she had to say but she had to leave other topics out and embrace this treasurable moment right here. She hugged him. Pulled him as close so that the gap between them could disappear; it was a deep as they two held each other to the point they lost themselves in time.
Everything was like a fabricated fairy tale. Beautiful and perfect.
But.
This is only the beginning of things…
.
.
.
"I plan to help out the folks there with their field work. It'll be a good opportunity to learn something new and soak into their daily lifestyle."
"Did I forget to mention that they are quite traditional? Oh yes, they do utilize the well and water coming from streams. The catch from the waters there are delicious when steamed."
"And—"
He went on and on.
Uncle Brown sounded excited as he continued to describe the country life he got into touch with shortly and starting today, he finally is going to fully immerse himself into that sort of life that he thinks is best for his retirement.
Sakura by his side listened to the elderly that ranted. It's still early despite how sleepy she was she could not bear to fall asleep now especially in this bumpy ride of a bus they took. She promised to accompany Uncle Brown's moving and set off early at dawn. The old man ensured that he sneaked off quietly without Sasuke's notice;
It's for the best, he said.
The rosette smiled lightly at the talking elderly as he didn't bother to rest since he began right after they got onto the bus. And he endlessly continued. She didn't mind and smiled to herself at every happy remark Uncle Brown made.
Because.
Whatever he tried so hard to tell her…sounded fake.
She wasn't trying to be rude but she couldn't be as insensitive to not hear his lies. His every word he made spoke loud lies.
Uncle Brown isn't the least bit happy about leaving the bakery.
The man had grown too old to stay away from the home he built too many memories from. There is no other place except for that shabby old room on the first floor of the shop. Moreover, leaving would make him lonelier. He's got no family other than that raven boy and,
To hell with field work!
He's got no other interest than bread and cakes and making dinner for the youngsters that would drop by some time. He would definitely love to enjoy tea and sit on that old couch in front of the television. He's this sort of man.
To cut ties from the world he used to live in, he might not take it all in. He's trying to be heroic and selfish at the same time, saying stupid words like he'll back out! It's just plain stupid!
So what if he's getting forgetful? And so what if he's really going to forget it all?
The fact that he lived in the lives of many others; it isn't that simple to take those memories away. There's no logic in that sense. Uncle Brown got it all wrong…
"Perhaps if I succeed to plant corn myself, I'll send them to the shop," then the elderly whispered. "He may not look like it but that boy Sasuke loves a bit of corn in his dishes. You might want to pop a handful in any of them, that'll make him really happy. He won't show it but I know he does."
Sakura nodded to portray that she was paying attention.
"Oh, and another thing. I am not sure if you'd notice, Sakura-chan that boy can be quite picky on food sometimes. He dislikes celeries and beetroot. Oh, please remember he's allergic to fungi foods and avocado. His skin will get itchy if he eats too much. Oh and—"
"Uncle Brown."
"Oh sorry, Sakura-chan. I must be going on and about like an old man but please do remember a bit especially during winter Sasuke's got to be extra careful or he'll easily catch colds. It can be pretty difficult. Once, he caught one and it lasted so badly that I couldn't open up the shop for days just to take care of him."
"Uncle Brown…" Sakura called him softly and the elderly man apologized,
"I am so sorry…I just couldn't help myself. That boy, other than being hard to take care of he's hardworking and soft. He'd never pick up a fight, ever! He's a good…sniff…oh…what am I doing…"
"Uncle Brown!" Sakura raised her voice and the teary elderly turned to her. "The way you describe Sasuke-kun, he does sound troublesome to take care of. I may be his wife but I am still inexperienced. So why not you stay and give me more time instead of telling me everything now?"
Uncle Brown darted his eyes away from a twin of piercing emeralds that could see through him. Nothing could slip pass this child's mind, he agreed confidently and he grew assured at the fact that Sasuke would be in good hands. However,
"You don't want to leave, don't you? So why throw everything away and leave?"
He cannot avoid sharp words that could slice through his impregnable silence. Haruno Sakura thinks like a woman of her age despite her youthful appearance; honestly, it does scare him sometimes and always do.
She set a pause; long enough to let the atmosphere settle down before she picked up another statement at the right timing,
"Sasuke-kun and I are planning to have a baby."
Indeed Haruno Sakura is filled with surprises that could catch one off guard easily. In his state of utmost surprise and smallest hint of joy, Uncle Brown reactively directed his gaze at her belly,
"Sakura-chan you're—"
And she shook her head in denial that she is to another of his surprise.
"We decided to adopt one," Sakura clarified with definite green gazes. Then continued,
"I am not telling you this so you could help us raise it. We're a family and this is the sort of family Sasuke-kun wished to have. You're an irreplaceable figure in this; a grandfather."
Oh…
Did he ever think of that?
He had forgotten when was too occupied with the thought of his illness and silliness that the possibility of it slipped his mind. More to it when he never thought this day would come to make him happy. But could this happiness come too late now?
He had become incapable to take up the duty as someone's grandparent.
"Father…" she shook his hand, calling him and he turned to look into those calling eyes.
It's something that severed his ironclad determination. His will grew thin at the sound of it. Sakura was too clever at a time like this.
He cannot reply to her. He cannot bring himself to answer her calling; if he could stay a silent a little longer everything would be over. Things will go along to his plan. He ignored the persistent young female hoping that she would give in knowing that would be something impossible.
The familiar bus stand came into sight soon enough telling how much time had passed since they travelled from the city and how his journey away from home is coming to an end. There is no turning back and he will convince himself of a better life that is waiting ahead for him.
Sakura didn't speak another word but followed him off the vehicle and quietly helped carried his light belongings. They both walked as expected, silently that is on the path that he and she recognized. It wasn't too long until the small, tranquil village entered their vision.
Finally, this is the real end of his journey.
And he would like to thank the little female; his daughter for her accompaniment. He appreciated her time and all the times he was able to share with her at the shop. Now, he is ready to bid her farewell and he would see her leave.
"UNCLE!"
The first thing he did was freeze at the call of that voice.
Uncle Brown need not guess; his senses tensed as he listened to a set of stomping footsteps that approaches from behind. It was loud and fearful but not as fearful when he came face to face with the person he wished to see the least.
"Why are you here…?" he uttered in astonishing whisper.
Again, he need not guess whose deed it was for Sasuke to be here. Betrayal? He wouldn't call that to the rosette who must have spoken the truth to the raven boy despite she promised. It was obvious when Sakura looked deep into his eyes; she intentionally told the boy, everything…
It was all for the best too.
"Why?"
Sasuke's dark brows were almost joined and he didn't mind his attitude towards the elderly. He was annoyed, angry and saddened. Those mixed emotions gathered and expressed on his face. He wouldn't hide it because now's not an important time to.
"What are you doing? No! What were you thinking, Uncle?!" He didn't mean to be rude but he couldn't suppress his emotions and raised his voice unintentionally at the response-less man.
"We're going home." Sasuke demanded in a deepened voice. "This instant. Now!"
Uncle Brown turned away to avoid contacting gazes,
"Leave me alone, boy! I know what I am doing!" he responded loudly as well and began walking away.
.
He said he knows what he is doing.
But I say that he is lying.
Behind those eyes I knew very well was a man who wasn't as strong as he could be by a single glimpse and he wasn't a good actor either. Not in my eyes that is.
The moment I saw his eyes dart away to avoid colliding gazes with mine was a written answer that I could understand without words to describe his inner thoughts.
I know worried, how uncertain and how afraid he can be…
Of the road ahead that his feet brought him to walk an unpaved earth of a fragile path.
And behind him from this distance I stood to watch his furthering figure then I thought with a hidden smirk towards the man who acted strongly to face whatever he thought he could.
He said to leave him be.
But I say he was trying to be cool.
I didn't plan to expose him of his thoughts. I don't want to because it'll hurt his pride he cherished during this moment.
However,
Did he ever think that he more he hides it hurts him as much as it hurts me?
Which is why I said he was a horrible liar but it was with good intention; hoping that he had done the best for someone else to have things better for them. What about himself?
I feel my jaw tightened with inner frustration as I watched the old man walk away by himself, without me that I was usually by his side; cast me aside with cruel words that only made me want to stay.
Watch him fight for his right and make fate go his way.
Does it have to be this way?
I cannot be patient to keep standing still another second more and I cannot be satisfied…I am NOT satisfied with all this! I felt my ears burned with blazing anger out of the dissatisfaction that swells in mind.
"This sucks! This sucks Uncle!"
I stomped my feet in the most immature manner. I did it out of consideration and I don't think that I bothered how I behaved when I was too concerned about the heat that surrounds my head and the anger I breathed.
I am unhappy…distressed at the fact that the old man who didn't make an effort to turn around to look at me when I anticipated he might. I thought I was still the kid he loved. I thought I could have things my way any time I tried whining.
I forgot that it was no more.
It wasn't too long ago before he learned how to ignore me. It was that second when he stepped ahead of me without bothering to say a proper farewell to me. He even had planned to retire away without my notice if it wasn't for Sakura-chan.
I am saddened.
Uncle.
Do you not want me anymore?
After all the kindness you given me, wasted your patience putting up with my foolishness and all your time sowed in me.
Don't you want anything in return?
At least,
Take something from me.
So, please don't leave me hanging with a debt I cannot repay in a lifetime. It's just too much to undo it.
Because,
The memory of that warmth that rushes into me the time you opened the door of your shop for us Uchiha brothers lives clearly in my mind to this day and that every time I remembered breathing, I remember being alive;
To see every Christmas with you until the Heavens decides your time.
Aside from that,
I cannot allow you to leave.
"Stupid old man! You can't just go leaving as if it was the right thing to do!"
I didn't bother to choose my words at the elderly; I've got no time to. If I don't stop him, who would? If my voice could bring him to turn around one more time,
"You're selfish, old man!"
Just once,
"Why don't you think about me for a change? Give yourself some selfishness and rely on me! I am your son aren't I? That I what I am of use for!"
Because if he didn't,
I would be sinned. As a man, as a son
I know what that old man was thinking, I clearly here his hesitating footsteps as he went farther yet he stubbornly denied his heart. He heard me, I know. Pray that he would just look at me one more time.
"FATHER!"
He stopped.
To my disbelief and relief, I see him halt. He should have done that earlier, he should hesitate earlier so…
What's up with leaving me behind with all this guilt piling up inside me, rushed up to my throat clinching in the most hurtfully and my neck was feeling thick. It was a suffocating moment before I no longer can hold back the urge to spill tears.
And it was at the moment that everything spilled honesty when my eyes finally met Uncle's reddened ones. I didn't realize when I was standing before him since when my feet carried me as quickly? As if I flew and I also knew that I was stopping the man; spreading my arms widely, preventing.
"Father…"
I called him in my humblest; I sincerely called the man with no intention to inflict him. He is after all the man despite our differences in blood stringed by intangibility called fate.
We don't deny it. It's just that,
We were too stubborn to admit that we could not escape written fate; every second that happens were all pre-destined in the hands of Heaven and we've got no say. The choices we make, the things we are about to say and the people we need to meet…are already there.
What happens next…determines the future.
"Don't call me that."
I didn't flinch at that strict integrated tone of disappointment and disgust spewed from Uncle's lips nor did I accept it. Standing before him I traced the emotion he set on his face; the frown that hardly visits and his lightly shivering jaw from hesitation of choosing his words.
"Don't ever again call me that!"
What was he angry about? I was confident that I was rightfully addressing him and I had the right to address him so.
He made things hard for me. Frowning, I insisted,
"Yes, I will!"
"NO YOU DON'T!"
He raised his voice to another level. It was beyond being just angry, no, he is angry not at me…but at himself.
"Yes I will! Forever I will!"
"You don't know what you're saying, boy!"
I watched him shook his head denying vehemently.
"Go home!"
"Not until you come with me! You are going home with me!"
We're going to fight. I am not giving up as easily even if it means I would hurt him with words. I need him. He doesn't belong here…
"This IS home!"
"No it isn't! Your home is in that stinking old bakery you'd spent decades of your life cherishing the place!"
"Enough, Sasuke! What I am trying to do is none of your concern!"
"What is that is not?! I don't like this Uncle…I don't like it when you wouldn't trust me. Am I incapable in your eyes…?"
I thought I had won the argument when Uncle went into silence the next but I had never anticipated that he would be determined to his decision;
Tightened his grip around the handle of his luggage, I couldn't believe he'd walk past me without another word to spare. I was astonished.
Fear instantly drew over me the time my eyes once again set at the scene of his back, the leaving figure that strongly insisted to go; slipping me by like the passing wind that I tried to hold in my hand.
But,
I didn't manage to dwell in that fear because of Sakura-chan. Her light push against my back forced out all my doubts of what I needed to do next. As ever, whenever her small hand that touches my skin I would snap wide awake. I could think. And I could run.
I ran.
Forward.
My mind was blank and the sound of Uncle's shoes that crunch the earthen ground as he moved further echoed in my ears. We weren't too far apart yet it felt as if the distance between us was hollow and distant. There wasn't a single thing I could come up with at mind except but to make haste. Meanwhile I was desperate in search for words to make up my speech in order to convince the man. But what?
Then I recalled a hint.
If words cannot reach the man then all I had to do is reach out to him. Wholly express myself,
I held him.
I could not recall the width of his shoulders or the warmth of his body. It was the first that I was ever brave to embrace this elderly man. I held him with my all; my arms stretched as wide and my feelings as much.
Uncle stopped.
He didn't move an inch from the spot that I surprised him with, I am sure he did despite I could not listen to his heart beat but mine did. I was especially nervous yet I overcame it as soon when it grew warmer. I…
Love this man.
Close my eyes and take that deep breath, I was sure that I love him dearly not from the sense that I usually tell him; out of gratitude simply because of time. We had spent too much time together, too many days and too many experiences. Most of all, he taught me…feelings.
From that, I am able to convey,
"I miss you…Uncle…"
.
Alright, that's chapter six everyone!
Hope you enjoyed it and hopefully I get to slip out of the busy schedule to update the next chapter!
No discontinuations and that's a promise!
Thanks in advance and REVIEWS please!