Surprise, another update!
The atmosphere in the hospital was always hectic, but that day it was oddly light-hearted for Sasuke. Maybe it was because the dance was approaching, and he was nervous for Sarada. Or maybe it was because he hoped to bump into a certain blonde pathologist.
As luck would have it, he did.
Naruto was in the middle of a conversation with Shizune when Sasuke approached. The two doctors shared a quick, secretive glance, their newfound camaraderie evident. Shizune nodded at Sasuke as she walked away.
"Dr. Sunshine," Sasuke greeted with a nod; his voice was laced with playful teasing.
"Dr. Bastard," she retorted, matching his tone.
"I wanted to ask you something. The dance is coming up, and Sarada is a bundle of nerves. I was hoping you might come over and help her get ready. Given your... experience with such things."
Naruto raised an eyebrow, her lips curving into a smirk. "You mean you don't know how to handle a curling iron?"
Sasuke chuckled, "Precisely. Plus, there are certain... feelings she might be going through. Perhaps she might be more comfortable discussing them with you. She's a little nervous, and I thought it'd be nice if you could come over and help her get ready. She seems to have a strong bond with you."
Naruto raised an eyebrow, "And why would that be, I wonder?"
Sasuke shrugged, a small smile playing on his lips. "Maybe because you're both plotting against me."
She laughed, "Fair enough. But it's a Friday, Shinki will be with me."
"Bring him along," Sasuke said without hesitation. "I could use some more testosterone around the home."
Naruto considered it. She could drop him off to Gaara's after she was finished with Sarada. Only she'd have to send Sasuke to pick him up from school.
"Are you sure? If I'm helping Sarada get dressed, you'll need to pick up my son. I'd ask Shika but β"
"Of course," Sasuke interrupted, trying to sound casual. "The more the merrier."
Before Naruto could respond, Sasuke added, a playful glint in his eyes, "Besides, I have quite the movie collection. I'm sure Shinki will find something to his liking. Unless he wants to join us in discussing makeup and boys?"
Naruto laughed. "I think he might pass on that. But thanks for the offer."
Sasuke stepped closer, his voice dropping an octave, "And maybe afterwards, we can...talk?"
Naruto raised an eyebrow, "Talk?"
He smirked, "You know, catch up, maybe over some wine?"
Naruto felt her cheeks warm. "Flirting in the hospital, Dr. Uchiha? How unprofessional."
He chuckled, "I've been told I have a rebellious streak."
Naruto shook her head, "I don't drink."
Sasuke looked at her in surprise, "At all?"
Naruto nodded, "My parents."
Sasuke's playful attitude disappeared instantly; feeling like a wave crashed over him. Right, Naruto's parents were killed by a drunk driver.
Just then, a group of nurses passed by, their voices reaching Naruto's ears, "Did you see Dr. Uchiha today? He looked so handsome."
"Oh my god, did you see Dr. Uchiha today? He looks even more handsome than usual!"
"Tell me about it! If only he'd notice someone like me."
Naruto stiffened, jealousy prickling at her. Naruto's gaze darkened just a tad, her smile becoming a bit more forced. Sasuke, noticing the change, leaned in slightly, lowering his voice.
"Jealous, Dr. Sunshine?"
Naruto scoffed, "Please, I just think they should be more professional."
Sasuke grinned, "So, you aren't the least bit jealous of them admiring me?"
She rolled her eyes, pushing him away playfully, "In your dreams."
He winked, "Maybe."
The tension was palpable, but neither would admit why. They shared a charged moment before the responsibilities of their day pulled them back to reality.
Sasuke couldn't help but feel excited as they parted ways, not just for Sarada's dance, but for the evening that would precede it.
The soft hum of the machines filled the pathology lab, creating a comforting ambiance for those working inside. When the door creaked open, Naruto was busy peering through a microscope, examining a particularly puzzling sample. She glanced up to see Sarada's familiar face peering in.
"Hey there," Naruto greeted, removing her gloves and giving Sarada a warm smile. "What brings you to my domain this evening? I thought you left already."
"Dr. Uzumaki?" Sarada said hesitantly.
Naruto looked up, her blue eyes kind. "Hey, Sarada! Everything okay?"
Sarada hesitated for a moment, then sighed. "I wanted to talk to you about tomorrow. I mean, about the dance."
Sarada stepped in, her eyes darting around the room briefly before settling on Naruto. "I just... I wanted to ask you something," she began hesitantly. Taking a deep breath, Sarada started, "I spoke to Mom earlier. She's... she's still overseas and won't be back in time for the dance. She can't help me get ready. I really wanted her to help me get ready. It's silly, I know."
Naruto's heart went out to Sarada, seeing the familiar pang of longing in the young girl's eyes. She could imagine the pain of wanting a maternal figure at such significant moments in one's life. "Sarada," she began gently, "Your dad already beat you to it. He asked me earlier today. I'll be there, and we'll make sure you look fabulous." Naruto brushed her hair behind her ear gently, It's not silly. It's completely natural to want your mom there for such occasions. But you know what? You've got a pretty cool dad who's trying his best, and a meddlesome but caring doctor who's willing to step in."
Sarada looked up, her eyes shimmering with tears. "Really? Thank you, Dr. Uzumaki."
Naruto chuckled. "Yes, he did. Seems like he's trying to earn some brownie points. Call me Naruto," she said, pulling Sarada into a gentle hug.
Sarada smiled, albeit weakly. "Thanks, Naruto. It's just... sometimes I wish mom was around more."
Naruto reached out, placing a comforting hand on Sarada's shoulder. "It's tough, I know. Your mom's job takes her places, but remember, she's doing it for patients who need her expertise. Just like your dad does here. And just like you might one day."
After a moment, Naruto pulled back. "Now, how about we distract ourselves with some work? I have some interesting samples that came in. Want to help me with the initial readings?"
Sarada nodded, grateful for the distraction. "I'd love to." Raking a moment to collect herself, she asked, "Speaking of which, do you think I can help more around here? I want to learn as much as I can."
Naruto beamed, impressed with Sarada's drive. "Absolutely. How about we start with some of the basic screenings for the new work we're working on? I'll show you the ropes."
The evening transitioned into an impromptu training session. Naruto walked Sarada through various procedures, explaining the intricacies of each. With her sharp intellect and keen interest, Sarada picked up quickly, making Naruto even more proud. Sarada and Naruto worked side by side. Under Naruto's guidance, Sarada took more responsibility than she had before, prepping samples, making notes, and even examining a few under the microscope herself.
Naruto was impressed. "You've got a keen eye, Sarada. Ever considered a career in pathology?"
Sarada blushed. "I'm still figuring things out. But working here with you makes it seem... exciting."
Naruto winked. "It's not all about cool outfits and dances, but it has its moments."
Sarada laughed, feeling lighter than she had in days. "Thank you, Naruto. For everything."
Hours flew by, and by the time they were wrapping up, the lab was bathed in the soft glow of evening lights. "Thanks, Naruto," Sarada said, stretching her arms. "This was really insightful."
Naruto smiled warmly, ruffling Sarada's hair. "Anytime, kiddo. Remember, you have a world of support around you. Whether it's in this lab, at home, or at a dance. You're never truly alone."
Sarada hugged Naruto, gratitude shining in her eyes. "I know. Thank you."
As Sarada left the lab, Naruto couldn't help but think about the intricate web of relationships and how they were all interconnected, supporting and uplifting one another. The dance would be another thread in that tapestry, and she was eager to see it unfold.
Sasuke's house, with its expansive structure, tall pillars, and sprawling lawns, was a testament to his success. Even as Naruto approached the doorway, she was impressed, feeling the weight of many memories the house must hold. Sarada, with her usual cheerfulness, swung the door open before she could knock. The vast entrance of Sasuke's house opened up to an even more magnificent interior. Marble floors, high ceilings, and expensive art filled every nook and cranny. The beauty of the place left Naruto in awe, but she tried not to gawk. Damn Uchiha's and their Uchiha money.
"Wow, Sasuke, this is quite the place," she commented, trying to keep her tone neutral.
Sasuke smirked, "It's alright, I suppose. Come, let me give you a tour."
Walking through the corridors, Naruto admired the blend of traditional and modern interiors. She could see framed pictures adorning the walls. Sasuke, who had been trailing behind them, stopped beside one that captured a much younger Sarada, giggling with her hair pulled into a messy bun.
"She had just had her first taste of ice cream here," Sasuke remarked, a hint of nostalgia evident in his voice.
Naruto chuckled, "She has the same mischievous look now. Some things never change."
Sasuke smirked, moving closer to Naruto he whispered, "Some do though," he said, his voice low, clearly hinting at the new dynamic forming between them.
Clearing her throat and feeling a slight blush creep on her cheeks, Naruto countered, "Are you going to continue with the tour, Dr. Bastard?"
Sasuke chuckles but pushed no more. His daughter was in ear sight, and he had yet to inform her about his past connections to her dear Dr. Uzumaki.
As they wandered through the various rooms, Sarada would point to childhood pictures scattered around. "Oh, look at this one!" she exclaimed, showing Naruto a picture of her, no older than five, with food smeared all over her face.
Naruto chuckled, "You were such a cute mess, Sarada."
Sasuke, leaning against the wall, interjected with a sly grin, "She still is, sometimes." As he watched Sarada walk into the next room, he walked next to Naruto, whispering, "Speaking of cute, I remember a certain someone in pigtails who used to be quite the handful."
Naruto rolled her eyes, a playful smile dancing on her lips, "Watch it, Sasuke. I'm here with scissors and hair products. Who knows what could happen?"
Sasuke stepped closer, lowering his voice so that they wouldn't be overheard. "I wouldn't mind if you got a little... hands-on."
She huffed, her cheeks reddening a bit. "Behave, Dr. Uchiha."
"Naruto, come here!" Sarada called.
Naruto stepped away from Sasuke, missing the heat of his body against hers. "Coming, dear. Sasuke, it's almost time for Shinki to finish school. I've already informed and informed the office about you going to pick him up today, so don't you be useful and go pick up Shinki from school? Sarada and I can handle things here."
Sasuke raised a brow but eventually nodded, "Sure. I'll be back soon. Evergreen Elementary right?"
Naruto nodded, "I'll text you his picture too, just in case."
Sasuke nodded, leaving, but not before giving Naruto thanks again for helping out.
As Sasuke left the house, Naruto and Sarada headed upstairs to her room. Naruto set up her tools and began working on Sarada. The atmosphere was filled with giggles, gossip, and the hum of the hairdryer. The two women were finished with Sarada's hair and started on her makeup when Sasuke returned.
Vroom!
Naruto placed her brush down, smiling. The sound of Sasuke's car engine filled the room. "That must be my son with your father. Give me a few minutes, let me get his set up and I'll come back and finish with you."
Sarada nodded as she looked at herself in the mirror.
The familiar hum of Sasuke's car engine filled the air before it came to a gentle halt outside the house. Naruto waited at the entrance, anticipating the duo's arrival. Her son, Shinki, bounded out excitedly as the front door opened.
"Mom!" he exclaimed, rushing to hug her. "Dr. Sasuke's car is so cool! And you wouldn't believe what happened at school!"
Naruto laughed, ruffling her son's hair. "Alright, calm down. One thing at a time."
Sasuke, gracefully emerging from the driver's side, smiled warmly at the pair. "Good afternoon, Naruto."
"Thanks for picking him up," she replied, glancing briefly at him. Her eyes lingered a moment longer than she intended, admiring his tousled hair and the way his shirt fit just right.
Shinki blurted out, barely containing his excitement, "Mom, you should have seen how Mrs. Aoki was around Dr. Sasuke! She kept stumbling over her words and her face was all red!"
Sasuke smirked, clearly amused, "Your teacher is quite... expressive."
Naruto rolled her eyes, a playful smirk playing on her lips. "Of course, leave it to you to make teachers weak in the knees."
Shinki giggled, "Not just teachers, mom! Almost everyone was staring!"
Sasuke, trying to sound nonchalant but clearly enjoying the attention, said, "What can I say? I have that effect on people."
Laughing, Naruto playfully nudged Sasuke's shoulder. "Alright, Mr. Charmer, let's head to the kitchen. I promised this one a snack."
As they made their way to the expansive kitchen, Naruto was in awe of how modern yet warm it felt. She swiftly took over, pulling out ingredients to whip up a quick sandwich for Shinki.
"Sasuke, why don't you go check on Sarada? She might need some fatherly advice on her look," she teased.
Sasuke raised an eyebrow, "On a scale of one to ten, how scared should I be?"
Naruto laughed, "Just go, be nice!"
As Sasuke left the room, Naruto and Shinki shared a quiet moment. "So your teacher was taken by Sasuke?"
Shinki laughed, "Yes, it was quite funny."
Naruto ruffled his hair. "Finish you food, than you can play on your Switch for a bit. But you're leaving it with me when you head to your fathers. You need to finish your homework and not leave it for last minute young man."
Shinki groaned. Laughing, Naruto headed upstairs. After all, she had a young woman to get ready.
Entering Sarada's bedroom, she found father and daughter glaring at the wall. "Everything okay?" Naruto asked.
Sasuke glared at her. "Naruto she has too much makeup on. Take it off!"
Naruto looked at Sarada, she looked just as she left her. "Sasuke," Naruto said, "Your daughter is hardly wearing any makeup right now. Exactly what is too much?"
Sasuke glared at her and walked out.
Naruto sighed as she sat back down. "Forget your father, lets finish up shall we?"
Sarada looked at Naruto and nodded, her frown still in place. An hour later, Naruto was finally finished. "Sarada," Naruto said gently, "Why don't you call your mom? I'm sure she'd love to see you, even if she can't be here in person."
Inside her lavish hotel room that overlooked the heart of Paris, Sakura sat, reviewing some medical documents for an international conference she was attending. Her phone vibrated next to her, displaying Sarada's name. Instantly setting aside her work, she answered, "Hey, sweetheart! How's the preparation going?"
"Mama," Sarada's voice, filled with emotion, responded, "I wish you could see me. I look... I don't know, different?"
Sakura could hear the mix of excitement and nervousness in her daughter's voice. "I'm sure you look breathtaking, darling."
Sarada sent a quick photo through. As Sakura opened it, her eyes widened in amazement. Her daughter, all grown up, looked regal in her dress, makeup done to perfection, highlighting her delicate features.
"Oh, Sarada," Sakura's voice choked up, "You've become such a beautiful woman."
The pride in her mother's voice made Sarada beam, "Thank you, Mama. Naruto helped me get ready. She has such a good sense of style and makeup."
Sakura's demeanour changed instantly. "Naruto? As in, Naruto Hatake?"
Sarada hesitated, sensing the shift in her mother's tone. "Uh, yes. Well, she goes by Dr. Hatake-Uzumaki now. She works in the same hospital as Papa. You know, the same Dr. Uzumaki I'm volunteering under now."
Sakura's heart raced, memories of her earlier years flooding back β memories filled with competition, misunderstandings, and emotions. While never meeting Naruto Hatake, she always kept tabs on the women who had a place in Sasuke's heart. Hearing her name after all these years, especially in connection with Sasuke and their daughter, brought forth old insecurities. She had no idea that Dr. Uzumaki was the same was Dr. Hatake-Uzumaki.
Trying to keep her voice steady, Sakura replied, "I see. Well, as long as she did a good job and you're happy, that's what matters."
There was an awkward pause before Sarada spoke up, "Mama, are you okay? You sound... off."
Sakura took a deep breath, choosing her words carefully, "I'm fine, sweetheart. Just surprised, that's all. It's been a long day. Look, I have another meeting coming up. Promise me you'll have fun tonight, okay?"
Although sensing that there was more to her mother's reaction, Sarada decided not to press further. "I promise, Mama. Love you."
"Love you too," Sakura responded before hanging up.
She sat in the dimming light of the evening, lost in thoughts of the past. It was clear that Naruto was back in their lives in some capacity, and Sakura couldn't help but wonder what that meant for all of them. After all, one of the biggest reasons for her divorce to Sasuke was because of this mysterious Naruto.
Naruto called in Sasuke, glaring at him to say anything negative.
Sarada looked radiant. But Sasuke's eyes widened in panic.
"That's...a lot, isn't it?" Sasuke's words were laced with concern.
Naruto defended her choices, "She looks beautiful and age-appropriate, Sasuke."
Upset and flustered by her father's response, Sarada muttered, "I thought it was perfect, Dad."
Naruto sighed, grabbing Sasuke's arm. "We need to talk." She dragged him into his office, closing the door behind her. In a swift move, surprising Sasuke with her strength, she pinned him to the wall.
"Listen, Sasuke, I get that she's your little girl. But right now, your overprotectiveness is affecting her self-esteem," Naruto's voice was stern. "She was really excited for today, but since you've returned this afternoon, she's been in a mood. Now take whatever is up your ass and either shove it up soo far that your pancreatic juice dissolves it or remove it. I don't care which you choose but choose one!"
Sasuke swallowed, "I know, it's just... seeing her like this makes me realize how fast she's growing. She'll be an adult in a few months. She'll be off to university soon."
Naruto's expression softened, "I understand your fear, Sasuke. But she needs your support."
With a deep sigh, Sasuke nodded. Naruto, feeling a rush of affection for the man in front of her, leaned in and pressed a quick kiss on his cheek. "It'll be okay," she whispered, wrapping her arms around him in a soft embrace. They both stood like that for a few moments before Naruto removed herself.
They exited the room to find Sarada waiting. Sasuke approached his daughter, cupping her face gently. "You look beautiful Sara. I'm sorry. I look at you and I keep seeing my little girl who refused to let go of my hand. Naruto did a wonderful job."
Sarada, with tears in her eyes, jumped into Sasuke's arms. "I love you so much, Dad." Sasuke smiled, kissing her head as he squeezed her tightly. Looking through Sasuke's arms, Sarada mouthed, "Thank you" to Naruto, who was quietly leaving the father and daughter to enjoy their moment.
The doorbell reverberated through Sasuke's lavish house, momentarily stealing away the peace. As the large doors opened, a tall, silver-haired young man with sharp, serpentine eyes walked in. The very sight of him made Sasuke's defences go up.
"Good evening, I'm Mitsuki. I'm here to take Sarada to the dance," he said with a polite nod.
Sasuke took a moment to size him up, his onyx eyes piercing through the boy. "You have a last name boy?"
Mitsuki nodded nervously, "Its Gilbert, sir."
"Listen closely, Mitsuki Gilbert. If anything, anything at all, happens to my daughter tonight, you'll have me to deal with." The threat in his voice was palpable. If you so much as think of hurting my daughter, remember this: I have resources and skills that can make anyone disappear."
Naruto stepped in, nudging Sasuke lightly, "Easy, tiger." She then turned to Mitsuki with an apologetic smile, "Ignore him. Sasuke's just being an overprotective dad. But the Uchiha do have resources to make people pop out of existence, so I'd be careful if I were you" she laughed.
Beside her, Sarada let out a small groan while Sasuke smirked.
Shinki, munching on some snacks in the corner, whispered to Naruto, "Why is Dr. Sasuke so scary? and is Dr. Sasuke always this intense?"
Naruto whispered back, "He's just being a typical dad, especially regarding his daughter's first big dance."
As Sasuke glared, Naruto busied herself with her camera, capturing the young couple. "Come closer, you two. Smile! Sarada, you look gorgeous! " she encouraged. The atmosphere was tense, but Sarada looked stunning, and Mitsuki, despite the hostility from Sasuke, looked dashing beside her. She made them pose, capturing candid moments, and then insisted Sasuke join for some father-daughter photos. Sasuke, though initially grumpy, melted as he wrapped his arm around Sarada, the pride evident in his eyes.
Finally, it was time for them to leave. A sleek black limousine awaited outside. Sarada hugged her dad tightly, whispering, "Relax, Papa. It's just a dance." With a wave to Naruto and Shinki, the couple stepped into the limo and were off.
Sasuke sighed, wrapping an arm around his daughter, "You're growing up too fast."
Naruto managed to capture the heartwarming father-daughter moment, but the atmosphere was still thick with tension.
Finally, the young couple entered the car, packed with many of their friends, the sleek limousine whisked the young couples away. As Sarada and Mitsuki drive off, Sasuke's gaze never left them, the overprotective father's instincts on full alert.
Once the limo had driven away, Naruto nudged Sasuke playfully, "You planning to ninja-run after that limo?"
As the car disappeared from sight, Sasuke muttered, "Maybe I should tail them, just to make sure."
Sasuke looked thoughtful, "You think I shouldn't?"
Naruto laughed, wrapping an arm around Sasuke's waist. "Oh, come on, Mr. Overprotective. Trust Sarada. Sarada's smart, and she can handle herself. Plus, she's got some of your genes. Anyone tries anything, and she'll have them regretting it."
Sasuke sighed, leaning into Naruto, "I know... but she's still my little girl."
Naruto smiled, "And she always will be. Now, come on, let's get some food and relax. Your daughter's going to be just fine. I need to leave soon as well, gotta drop my kid off at his fathers."
Sasuke frowned look down at Naruto. He didn't want her to leave. Not just yet, anyways.
With Sarada at her dance, the mansion suddenly felt too large and too empty to Sasuke. The looming hallways and echoing rooms starkly contrasted the earlier bustling energy. Sasuke found himself wanting to distract his mind, to push away the paternal worry nagging at him.
"Naruto," Sasuke began, running a hand through his hair. "I could drive you and Shinki to Gaara's if you'd like."
Naruto looked up from where she was packing up Shinki's school bag. "Are you sure? I mean, it's quite a drive andβ"
"It's fine," Sasuke interrupted, "I could use the distraction. Besides, I've never met Gaara, and I've been... curious."
Naruto's eyes held a hint of surprise, "Curious about my ex-husband?"
Sasuke hesitated for a moment, "Yeah, I guess you could say that."
There was a silent understanding between the two, the air thick with unspoken feelings. Naruto could relate, she was curious about Sakura too. Sasuke's earlier cheer and mischief seemed to be overshadowed by a tinge of jealousy. Naruto quickly changed the subject, not wanting to dwell on it, "Alright, let's get going."
The drive to Gaara's place was quieter than the trip to the dance. Shinki chattered away, telling Sasuke about a school project and some of his friends. Sasuke listened attentively, asking questions and engaging the boy in conversation, but Naruto could sense the underlying tension.
They pulled up to Gaara's place, a modern single-story house surrounded by a pristine garden. As they stepped out, the door swung open, revealing Gaara. He had the same stoic expression and piercing gaze but with a slightly more mature and softer edge to his features.
"Naruto," Gaara greeted. "I didn't expect Shinki so early."
Naruto smiled, "Well, I had a chauffeur who wanted to do the drive, and who was I to say no."
Gaara chucked softly, "Ahh, yes, you and your aversion to driving." His gaze then shifted to Sasuke, a flicker of recognition in his eyes. "And you must be Dr. Uchiha. I've heard a lot about you from Shikamaru."
Sasuke nodded, extending a hand, "It's a pleasure to meet you, Gaara. Can't say the same, unfortunately." The statement held a double meaning, and Naruto shot Sasuke a warning look.
Gaara nodded, "Likewise." His gaze then shifted to Shinki, who was watching the interaction like a hawk, "Come on in, Shinki. Your Switch with your mother?"
Shinki nodded, grumbling. Laughing Naruto told Gaara that she indeed had his Switch and his games on her.
Gaara nodded in appreciation. Making sure Shinki was inside, he told her, "He might as well had it this weekend; Tamari is dropping her lot in a little bit as well. It's going to be chaos."
Naruto laughed, shaking her head. She gave Gaara a gentle run on his arm, "Try to stay strict with him, and not have the kids walk all over you?" She missed the glare Sasuke sent when she touched Gaara's arms, but Gaara certainly didn't.
Smirking, Gaara nodded, bending down to kiss Naruto's forehead. "Have a safe drive home."
Naruto raised her brows as Gaara smirked. Turning around, she saw that Sasuke was already halfway to his car. Giving him a wave, Naruto followed Sasuke's path down to his car as well. There was a palpable tension in the car, something Naruto didn't feel like addressing, and it wasn't until they were halfway back that Sasuke finally spoke up.
"I know you mentioned that you and your ex were great at co-parenting and that you were still friends but I didn't like seeing him," Sasuke admitted, his grip on the steering wheel tight. "The way he looked at you and you two shared memories... it stirred something in me."
Naruto sighed; whatever this was between her and Sasuke, it needed to be addressed. And at the ripe age of 37, she felt too old. "Sasuke, Gaara and I share a past, but that's all it is β the past. Quite similar to you and me. If we can mostly let go of our childhood rivalry, you can stop whatever it is that you're feeling about Gaara."
Sasuke glanced at her, his onyx eyes reflecting vulnerability and hope. "I don't think I have Naruto."
So, leave me a review on what you think so far.
