Update: No Beta. Currently doing regularly updated before I uploaded chapter#7. Fixed details and plots up to chapter 6.
Disclaimer: I do not own Naruto! It belongs to Masashi Kishimoto.
Summary: Misunderstandings can really mess up things sometimes. What if, for no good reason, their relationship falters just over a minor misunderstanding? Is there still hope for love? Join NejiSaku through a series of love encounters that will eventually bring them together and ultimately put an end to their conflict. NejixSaku.
Naruto, the 7th Hokage, was about to marry his longtime love Hinata. Sakura, who had been stationed in Sunagakure for the past two years, was returning to be their maid of honor. Hyuuga Neji, the best man has been tasked with teaching her the waltz. In desperate times, meddling is the only choice left.
Setting: Three years after the Fourth Shinobi World War. Sakura is 20 years old, while Neji is 21. Neji lived.
Author's Note: Obviously canon divergence. Rated M for smut and lemons.
Chapter 1 | Home
Sakura received a visitor in her office, she turned to see the Suna's son-in-law standing in the doorway. As soon as he stepped foot in her office, she caught a whiff of his cigarette smoke.
"Hey," the Suna son-in-law said as he walked towards her. As a Konoha advisor, he was frequently tasked with official duties that took him from his home to the distant land of Sungakure. Everyone was surprised by his relationship with Temari. He was the first of the twelve rookies to get married.
The Nara pulled up a chair and sat down across from her, his face relaxed. It's always great to catch up with old friends over a cup of coffee. It seems like she'd been putting in a lot of effort into her medical research. He deduced this from the serious dark circles around her eyes.
"What brought you here today? You're not here for a coffee, are you?" She said it with a tired smile, she ducked her head to better see what he was holding.
The Nara dropped off an envelope on her desk and said, "Guess what? Naruto wanted me to deliver this to you!"
Sakura looked at the red wax seals, which bore the crests of the Uzumaki and Hyuuga clans on the lustrous crème envelope. Feeling excited. She ripped open the envelope with trembling fingers. A warm glow of happiness spread over her as she tore open the golden wedding invitation card depicting the war hero and the Hyuuga heiress.
"He wanted to ensure that the invitation didn't get lost in the shuffle!"
"Thank you for your timely delivery!"
The position of Hokage was formally passed from Kakashi-sensei to the Naruto. She smiled as she remembered her regret at missing the Hokage's inauguration festivities last year. That had to be a bummer.
"Are you going to the wedding?"
"Hmm, let me just double-check the time and date again."
The pinkette's phone rang right at that moment. She picked up her phone and saw his name calling. It was not surprising to see his name pop up on her phone.
"Mushi-mushi? Naruto?"
"SAKURA-CHAN!" He sat back in his Hokage chair, taking in the serene sight of a rebuilt Konoha.
Then the loud, boisterous voice of her old teammate shattered her concentration, coming out of the phone. It was great to see that being a Hokage hasn't brought down his spirit.
"Did you have to leave?" Sakura talked to the Nara when he stood up.
"It might be better if you talk to him directly. I'll catch you later!" He waved goodbye and then disappeared down the hallway. The kunoichi nodded in thanks before he left.
"Omedetō, Naruto!" She said warmly, she couldn't be more happy for them.
"Oh, did Shikamaru send you the invitation? I bet he did. It would be awesome if you could attend the wedding," Naruto begged over the phone.
"Wait a minute..."
"Come on, you missed my Hokage inauguration last year, and I missed seeing you there. Aw, that was a total drag! And you simply can't miss my wedding, you hear?" His forehead wrinkled, which showed that he wasn't happy.
She expressed her regret at not being able to attend the Hokage's inauguration ceremony. Despite the fact that she couldn't attend, she did send her wishes and gifts.
Under Naruto's leadership as Hokage, the bond between Sunagakure and Konohagakure was at an all-time high. As a brass member of the Konoha medical department, she accepted an invitation from the Sunagakure medical division to participate in three years of medical ninjutsu research and academic exchanges. Developing medical ninjutsu is important for maintaining peace in the shinobi world, reducing battlefield casualties, and advancing medical science. Too many people had died during the Fourth Great Shinobi War, and it had left an indelible mark on her.
Shizune-nee-chan, Konoha's Medical Division chief, sent the pinkette on this long diplomatic mission. Sakura rejected Sasuke's wedding proposal two years earlier. Accepting would mean becoming the clan's baby breeder to continue the clan's legacy. Even though she cared about him, she couldn't accept this. Now, nothing would make her happier than to have some time to work on her profession.
"I totally get that you're dying to break free and explore the world, but hey, don't forget about us back in Konoha! Mushi-mushi, Sakura-chan? Don't you dare leave me hanging like this-" he pouted.
His fiancée, like, totally grabbed his phone out of his hand in a flash.
"Hi, Sakura-chan!" Hinata's voice was all bubbly and full of excitement as Naruto handed her the phone.
"Omedetō on your upcoming wedding, Hinata-chan! Aw, you guys deserve all the happiness in the world!"
"Thank you so much, Sakura-chan. Aw, we really missed you at Naruto-kun's Hokage Inauguration! You were such an important part of our special day. Please make it to our wedding! And please be my maid of honor!"
"That's lovely. I'm honored that you've chosen me to be your maid of honor!"
Sakura was grateful for their friendship. So much they'd been through after she saved her favorite cousin and brought him back from the brink of death during the war. It was amazing how sometimes the toughest of situations can bring people together and form lifelong bonds.
"Is there anything keeping you from returning here?"
"Truthfully, I didn't."
"It's okay, you don't have to explain anything if you don't want to. Hey, I just wanted to let you know that Ino might give you a call soon. You two can catch up on some gossip together."
Gossips? They catch up on the latest news that's going on in the village over the phone. The brooding Uchiha has finally found love in the arms of the fiery-haired beauty. Sakura's face was filled with surprise. The blonde always had the inside scoop on everything happening in Konoha. It was implied that he had given up on their relationship and moved on.
"You know, it was about time you moved on too. Find a person who will truly appreciate all your amazing qualities, Sakura-chan."
"Hey, any lucky souls available to bask in my awesomeness?" The pinkette asked with a playful tone, trying to inject some fun into the conversation.
"Naturally! So, brace yourself, because I've got a little surprise up my sleeve!" she giggled, "I can't wait to see you at my wedding, you better be ready to catch that bouquet, alright? No excuses!"
She regretted missing Naruto's Hokage inauguration the year before and after two years away from Konoha. She saw this as a chance to make amends and rid herself of any lingering guilt.
"Absolutely! I'll be there with bells on! And, I would like to be your maid of honor." Her question was answered, and a smile graced her lips. It was time to face the man with obsidian eyes.
Hinata couldn't be happier and is looking forward to it. Naruto beamed next to his beloved.
[Three months later]
Three months had passed since then, and Sakura had put her new medical jutsu development on hold to attend the Hokage's wedding.
After two years in Sunagakure, she was still unaccustomed to its year-round heat and bright sunlight. She made her way back to Konoha. She took a break midway to take in the gorgeous Konoha weather. The autumnal green foliage sheltered her body from the chilly wind of the falls. She started to feel more at ease.
A light breeze ruffled her short, cherry-pink hair as she approached the Hokage monuments. There were now seven Hokage statues atop the hill. A note was sent to Hokage Tower after her arrival.
In the two years since Sakura's departure, the city of Konoha has been completely rebuilt. The destruction from the Shinobi World War was barely perceptible. Following the restoration, Konoha expanded to the land behind the Hokage Rock, and the Thunder Rail was installed throughout the village. Many elite shinobi and innocent civilians were killed, and new orphanages and medical facilities were built. Their sacrifice will never be forgotten, and those who survived were permanently marked with badges of honor.
As she strolled by the academy's training grounds, she caught sight of her best friend hanging out with a bunch of young genin who were honing their chakra control skills. Her mind was flooded with memories.
Yamanaka Ino, now a Jonin, was leading her Genin squad with confidence. Out of all her friends, the blonde one was the most important to her. Even after all those years, their phone and text conversations felt like no time had passed at all. Ino was the first person she called when she returned to Konoha.
The two friends were finally able to catch up and made plans to meet tonight at 8 at the Mint Bar. They were thrilled to meet other kunoichi their peers, who would be joining them.
With grace and agility, the pink-haired girl leaped from one rooftop to another. She landed gracefully in front of the towering Hokage building. Riding the elevator to the topmost level.
"SAKURA-CHAN! I can't believe how much I miss you!" The Hokage's face lit up as he rushed towards her, enveloping her in a tight embrace. His eyes, the color of the clearest blue sky, sparkled with happiness, and a big smile stretched across his face.
"Omedetō!" She returned his hug tightly and looked up at her sworn brother. "Oh my gosh, you've grown so much! And wow, your hair looks... different." He stood tall above her, a whole foot taller. His once spiky blonde hair was now a close shave, and he looked so cool in his Hokage outfit. "I totally miss you too!" Sakura gently rubbed his head.
Sakura walked up to the stunning woman standing beside the Hokage, her hair flowing down to her waist in a beautiful shade of indigo. She planted a smooch on her cheek and exclaimed, "Omedetō, Hinata-chan!" As they embraced tightly, she said, "I'm so excited to watch you walk down the aisle in the dress of your dreams."
They greeted each other warmly, their smiles lighting up the room. As unbelievable as it may seem, the wedding is just a month away!
"It was great to catch up with you. We should totally hang out soon!"
"Totally, let's make plans tonight."
They chatted and caught up on what's been happening in their lives. She had a surprise for both of them as a wedding present, pulling out an envelope from her bag.
Hinata gently opened the envelope and took out a sheet of paper. Her cheeks turned a rosy shade as she read the words, a surge of happiness flooding through her. It was a honeymoon package to Kirigakure, the Land of Water. Like, seriously, it was the ultimate dream come true for any ninja couple. Naruto couldn't contain his excitement and let out a loud whoop.
"Guess what? I've got a special surprise for you lovebirds on your honeymoon!" Sakura gave the Hyuuga heiress a flirty wink and said, "It was a perfect romantic getaway on the secluded private island in Kirigakure. A royal suite with its very own private onsen, surrounded by the most breathtaking mountains and a beautiful beach down below," she leaned in closer, her voice dropping to a conspiratorial whisper at Hinata, "with sexy nightgowns, a plush king-sized bed, and unforgettable long nights!" Sakura said, nudging her friend playfully. She had been there before because the spring water, its therapeutic benefits, and mineral composition were just so good for medical research.
"N-Nani?!" Hinata's face turned even redder as she caught on to what Sakura was suggesting. "S-Sakura—" she stuttered.
"Oh my gosh, it was exactly what we needed! Oh man, I totally didn't think this through. Oh man, I really hope I haven't messed up as a husband! The groom grinned at his soon-to-be wife, and her blush deepened. The Hokage beamed, his sun-kissed cheeks blushing with a healthy glow.
"No problem!"
Sakura couldn't help but notice the huge, shiny diamond ring on Hinata's finger. It was beautiful. Happiness. So, this is what marriage will be like.
Naruto slouched at his Hokage desk, diving back into the stacks of paperwork and folders that littered his workspace, returning to his never-ending mission reports. While they were talking, someone entered the doorway, prompting Sakura to look around. When she saw it was Sasuke, her heart skipped a beat. The Rinnegan user confidently approached the Hokage's desk without knocking.
"Hey guys," he said as he strolled on over to join them, his expression totally impossible to decipher. "I hope I'm not interrupting anything," he said, a mischievous grin on his face.
He was dressed in his trademark grey zippered high-collared short-sleeve shirt, blue wrist warmers, and dark blue pants. His spiked, ebony hair framed his face perfectly. His gaze never wavered from the captivating depths of her obsidian eyes. With his mesmerizing good looks and unparalleled combat skills, it was no surprise that every girl in her Genin class had fallen head over heels for him. There he stood, Sasuke, her ex-boyfriend.
After the Fourth Shinobi World War, Uchiha Sasuke was imprisoned for his defection. His choice to aid the Konoha alliance paid off, and he was freed from prison three years ago. Konoha deemed the Uchiha bloodline too valuable to risk extinction. The man participated in important missions under Hokage's direction as atonement for his sin.
The prodigy returned from his mission, surprising everyone with its smooth success. He felt her presence as he walked into the room. He was in a bad mood. Just as he made up his mind to marry Karin, fate got in the way. When the Uchiha considered the marriage proposal, he couldn't resist the desire to have his own children to carry on his clan's legacy, and she was ready to help him reach his goal. The decision was not made easily. However, the timing was absolutely terrible.
The pinkette had blossomed into a beautiful and powerful woman, unrecognizable from the fangirl he once knew. During his extended mission in Suna, he saw her a few times. She always turned him down every time he approached her. Sasuke's heart sank as he realized he wasn't her priority anymore. He felt a mix of loss and pride as she blossomed into her new self.
"Hi, Sasuke-kun. It has been a long time. How's it going?" She appeared to be confident, but she was actually tense.
"Good He briskly approached the Hokage's imposing desk and asked, "Just got back from Suna?"
"Yeah, right in time for Naruto's nuptials."
"Sakura, are you available tonight?" In search of hope, he asked.
Emerald eyes met the gaze of the person who had addressed her. "I'm sorry, Sasuke, but I already have plans for tonight. Maybe another day?"
His heart sank as he heard her direct response. "That was pretty blunt. I was hoping for a different answer, but deep down I knew it was coming." It seemed like no matter how hard he tried, she always found a way to push him away.
The Uchiha snorted and dropped the mission report on the desk. The Hokage stamp met the mission report with a resounding thud. After thanking him for his invaluable assistance to Konoha, Naruto dismissed him. He nodded curtly. As he turned to leave, he stopped in his tracks and regarded the kunoichi with pink hair.
Sakura stood her ground, refusing to let those piercing obsidian eyes intimidate her. They were both aware that their romance was over. There was no turning back the hands of time.
His fingers hovered just above her knuckles with anticipation, their touch tantalizingly close. But alas, he resisted the urge to make contact, letting his hand fall back to his side. With a voice filled with longing, he whispered, "I'll speak with you again, Sakura."
With a flick of his hand, Sasuke disappeared in a cloud of smoke. As the smoke cleared, the Hokage couple exchanged glances with the pinkette. Hinata whispered to her husband, who nodded in agreement.
"Finally back from Suna," the pinkette sighed, collapsing on the couch in exhaustion. They watched her anxiously. Everyone knew she had been avoiding him for the past two years. "Why do you both look so worried? I'm okay. I'm just tired," she interrupted, cutting off their concern.
Hinata changed the subject, "Sakura-chan, do you need a place to stay?" The heiress asked, locking eyes with the emerald-eyed beauty.
"I'm not sure, but I'll give it some thought." The war had taken everything from her, including her home. As soon as peace was restored, her parents were off gallivanting around the world on some fancy vacation.
"Sure, take your time. Just let me know what you decide. Have you thought about staying with Ino?"
"I've thought about it, but it turns out she was staying with Sai. So, yeah, not exactly convenient."
"Have you ever considered staying at the Hyuuga compound?" She asked with hope, "If you haven't found another place to stay, you're welcome to stay with us."
"Would it be convenient?"
Convenient? I think it could be more than that.
"Of course, it would be very convenient. I'll have it ready for you by today!" Her white eyes twinkled mischievously. "And, by the way, I found the perfect person for you to be with at my wedding. And get this, he was none other than the best man of Naruto himself!"
"Sure, who could it be?" Sky pondered. Sai was with Ino, so he couldn't be the person. If it was Kakashi-sensei, she was very unlikely to have thought Sasuke would be the person. She'll be fine, whoever it is.
"It is Neji-niisan!" Hinata's voice rang out, filled with excitement and adoration.
The perfect match for her maid of honor was none other than her beloved cousin. They complemented each other in every possible way. Her adrenaline was pumping at the prospect of a second chance for the two of them to meet again.
"Oh well, that comes as no surprise to me."
The Hokage trusted Hyuuga completely. They were protected from his altruistic love during the war. In the heat of the battle, he demonstrated his unwavering loyalty and fearless bravery. His miraculous survival during the war relieved those who cared about him, including Sakura herself.
"Sai, Shikamaru, Kiba, and Chouji are my groomsmen!" Naruto wanted their former sensei as his groomsman, but the silver head declined the offer, sinking his heart.
"Sasuke-kun, on the other hand, is still undecided."
"Hey, Hinata-chan, I've been wondering... if the maid of honor has any special duties to take care of. Like, maybe dancing at the wedding or something? I'm kinda worried about it, to be honest. The weight of the impending task loomed over her. She couldn't bear the thought of stumbling through the dance floor and disappointing those who believed in her.
"Don't worry, my dear. That's exactly why I got Neji-niisan to teach you the waltz. Niisan had always been a prodigy in the Hyuuga clan, excelling in both combat and social etiquette."
As a member of the prestigious clan, he had to go through rigorous training in order to uphold their bloodline. From the moment the Hyuuga prodigy became a Chunin, he was taught everything about his clan's affairs and even learned the art of social graces, just like the rest of the Hyuuga main family.
That's why everyone in the Hyuuga clan, including Neji, has such impeccable manners and grace.
"Wait, are you seriously telling me that he's, like, actually going to dance with me?" She gasped, her voice filled with a mix of disbelief and excitement.
"Yes, Sakura-chan! So don't you worry. He'll take the lead and have your back," she reassured. Her face lit up with a bright smile as she nodded confidently. "Make sure to treat him kindly," she winked, "he needs someone to dance with at the ceremony."
"What about his betrothed?" The man had been engaged to the Fire Daimyo's daughter two summers ago. The pink-haired kunoichi couldn't help but feel a surge of curiosity bubbling up inside her.
"It has been a full half year since they haven't been together." Hinata answered with concern. "So are you with me on this?" With all her might, she clenched her hands together in hope.
"Erm..." Sakura thought about her plea as her mind wandered to the prospect of twirling in the arms of the handsome Hyuuga. A flutter stirred within her chest, intertwining excitement and a little bit of trepidation. Would this just be another passing moment in their friendship? But the deal would mean that she would be able to spend more time with him. "All right, I'm fine." Sakura said, coming to a decision. That sounds like an agreeable plan. Little did she know, the arrangement would lead to countless stolen moments with Neji.
"Yes!" Hinata's face lit up with a bright smile as she replied. "Will you join me, Sakura-chan? I have something to show you!"
"Sure, where are we going?"
"You'll see." Said the Hyuuga heiress as she dragged the kunoichi out of the Hokage office.
The Hokage dismissed the ladies with a wave and sighed, resting his head on his hand out of sheer boredom. The War Hero's ultimate dream came true when he became the Seventh Hokage, following in the footsteps of his mentor, Kakashi-sensei. As the Hokage, he had a lot on his plate - meetings, paperwork, and missions that needed his attention. He was determined to fulfill his duties with the utmost dedication. He let out a tired sigh before returning to work.
The wedding of the Hokage was nothing short of spectacular, befitting of his status and the family he was about to marry into. At a posh venue, formal attire is expected.
Hinata excitedly brought her best friend to the bridal boutique before they returned to the Hyuuga compound. The pinkette hadn't even seen or tried on her maid of honor dress. She held Sakura's hand as they walked to the most luxurious bridal boutique in town.
The posh store had large chandeliers that shone brightly in the center, speakers playing a soft melody, and a smooth ivory wall. Serving notable clans and nobles. In the center of the room was a three-piece white postmodern velvet sofa set, and behind it was a grand table adorned with a beautiful vase filled with delicate white and lavender flowers. They walked towards the beautiful counter and asked if they could try on a gown that had been specially ordered for Sakura. A skilled stylist and her two assistants eagerly awaited the arrival of their guest. They led them to a dressing room reserved exclusively for the Hyuuga family.
Three gorgeous wedding gowns for the bride were displayed in tall glass cases in the main hall. The gold-framed wall mirrors reflected these magical creations. The soft gold long-sleeved wedding gown glistened with thousands of tiny rhinestones. The Hyuuga princess had it specially designed. It had a semi-transparent bodice, an elegant neckline, and a row of color-matched buttons at the back. Sakura marveled at the exquisite wedding dresses.
The bridesmaids' color scheme was decidedly lavender. They were getting excited about the upcoming nuptials. Hinata asked the boutique to make one more gown for Sakura for the wedding reception that followed.
The bridal consultant showed the way to the maid of honor sections, which were displayed in white glass racks. They had the dresses ready and asked Sakura to give them a fit. Her name was written on the hanger of each one. The first one was a lavender color, and the second one was a deep burgundy. Sakura loved the dresses. The Hyuuga heiress pushed her into the dressing room to try on clothes.
Sakura took the first dress and went into the fitting room. She pressed it against the curves of her body. It was a full-length lavender pleated dress with a low neck and a layered halterneck that trailed in the back.
She delicately slipped into the exquisite dress and emerged from the changing room. "How do I look, my dear?" she inquired.
The assistant handed her a pair of 4-inch leather heels in mellow gold to complete the outfit. It went beautifully with her dress. Her stunning gown trailed gracefully behind her, captivating the gaze of all who laid eyes on her.
"Oh my goodness, Sakura-chan, that gown looks absolutely amazing on you!"
"Thank you! You think so?" She glanced at her reflection in the mirror, admiring how the dress hugged her curves. She looked at her friend, nervously nibbling on her lower lip. "Do you think this outfit might be a little too sexy for me?" She fidgeted with the slit of her dress, revealing a teasing peek of her thigh.
"You are looking absolutely fire, girl!" Hinata gave her a charming wink. "Perhaps it was a little too long."
"Excuse me, miss, I was wondering if it would be possible to have this hem adjusted slightly?" Hinata asked the boutique assistant.
"Oh, absolutely," she responded softly. "We would be more than happy to hem it to your preferred length."
"Thank you," Hinata said politely, in a tone of politeness and gratitude befitting a Hyuuga princess.
Sakura exited the dressing room after returning there to try on the second dress.
"Alright, I'm totally obsessed with this," Sakura said, twirling around to flaunt the gorgeous fabric. It was quite different from her usual style, but there was just something about it that felt so right. Probably seeing herself in her favorite crimson outfit.
The gown was a gorgeous burgundy convertible bodycon minidress. It had a deep V-neck, a detachable sheer maxi skirt with a high-low hem, and a halterneck with a back clasp. Her ample cleavage was undeniably on display.
"Ah, Sakura-chan, I must say, red truly complements your beauty."
"I must admit, dresses have never quite captured my interest before, but there's something about this particular one that has caught my eye!"
"You're absolutely slaying it, Sakura-chan."
Sakura smiled warmly at Hinata and expressed her gratitude, "Oh, Hinata, I really appreciate you sparing me the trouble of having to go gown shopping."
"It was my pleasure, I'll make sure you enjoy a wonderful time on my wedding day!"
Sakura returned to her usual attire and exited the changing area. As she strolled by the rack where she had carefully placed her garments, she noticed two sets of impeccably tailored men's suits hanging right next to hers. It was a crisp white three-piece suit and a sleek black tuxedo, both made of fine materials.
Hinata couldn't help but notice Sakura's eyes being drawn towards the suits.
"This is for Neji-niisan. We picked these out last month to go with Naruto-kun's groomswear. Unfortunately, Nii-san had to leave on a mission before he could have another chance to engage with them. He looked absolutely stunning in them!" Hinata gushed with adoration as she spoke about her beloved older cousin.
Hinata thought back to last month, when her cousin tried on different suits before settling on the perfect one. His reluctance only made it more amusing. She dragged him along with her to the fitting where her Hokage husband was trying on his groom's suits. Hinata was always testing his limits, pushing the boundaries of his patience.
As he stood in the dressing room, he felt overwhelmed by the number of suits that were waiting for him to try on. He casually shrugged and grabbed the stuff they handed him. Each one was like, totally more stylish and sophisticated than the one before! Seriously, he didn't mind the style or color as long as they looked good and made his heiress happy.
The staff couldn't help but swoon over his perfect physique every time they dressed him up, excited to see him looking amazing. It was quite a sight to see Hyuuga Neji all suited up. Their hands grazed his torso, tracing the contours of his body and venturing towards his inner thigh. It was a little too close for his comfort as they took his measurements.
Sakura swore she saw the boutique staff's blushing faces. She was sure they were all in awe of his commanding presence.
As they left the bridal shop, Sakura's eyes grew heavy with tiredness. After a super long day of traveling all the way from Suna, and then going through the whole ordeal of trying on bridesmaid dresses, she was totally exhausted and just wanted to crash.
As they left the shop, Hinata grinned sheepishly at Sakura. "Let's get you some rest before our evening out tonight."
End Note: Neji will soon make his appearance. I'm still planning the story for a few upcoming chapters, which I want to be reasonable and detail-oriented so the relationship will appear more solid and rational. An attempt to resume writing after a long hiatus. Don't bash, might quit writing again.
Ultimately, there should be a total of 12 chapters.
Favorite, follow & review! Will speed me up.