Inspiration from various sources, mainly from the story/anime Kamisama Kiss, I loved the characters and storyline of it. The elegance of the characters and the cute plot had me thinking it'd be fun to insert my favorite Naruto characters into it, so why not? This story will be set in AU and will be a fun inspired rewrite with different twists. Characters and their personalities may vary just depending how they fit in.
Side Notes: Regular Italic texts are character thoughts. (Texts in parenthesis if they appear are short side notes/info). Underlined texts if they appear will indicate an important keyword(s) and/or phrases.
Summary: After witnessing her father being attacked, Sakura escapes to seek refuge. Now alone and nowhere to go, all hope seems lost until she meets a beautiful stranger who offers a solution to her worries. With the parting gift of a heavenly kiss upon her forehead, she begins her new life and adventure. Sasu/Saku AU
Disclaimer:I do not own Naruto/Kamisama kiss.
Prologue
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Distant voices echoed off the poster infested walls of her small bedroom, from what she could tell, the strained voices that spoke seemed to be discussing a stressful topic. Sakura rose from her bed to quietly make her way to the door and press an ear against it to listen in.
Sitting across from one another at the family dining table sat Mebuki and Kizashi, bill statements and payment records were scattered across the hard surface between them. The dimmed kitchen lights heightened the tense atmosphere around them as they spoke of matters that were only discussed in private.
"Mebuki I just don't know what else we can do at this point. I've added up our expenses this month, and I just don't see how we are going to be able to pay out this month's rent." His wife's eyes studied the bill statement in her hand and slowly shook her head. "You're right honey. Maybe I could ask some of our neighbors if they want their apartments cleaned." His head shook as he looked up at her with tired eyes. "With the loan debt, the rent due this month, groceries and the tea cafe expenses. You'd have to clean every room in this building. Just yesterday, the landlord came by again to tell me his leniency is wearing thin."
Both were silent for a moment. "Honey." she started. "Maybe it's time to reconsider the idea of selling our cafe. The earnings from that could at least pay off the loan company and get them off our backs." Kizashi remained silent at the thought of selling their family cafe. She knew it was a touchy subject, the business was their life long dream and accomplishment they both took pride in. Selling it would be the same as losing a part of themselves.
He shook his head and let a deep breath escape. "The cafe." he paused to reminisce. "It's been in our family for generations. Passed down from my grandparents to my parents, to us, and then eventually to Sakura and her future husband and family." He moved to perch his elbows upon the cluttered table, and let his head sink into his hands. "Never in a million years, would I have thought, I would let my family fall this hard." The look on Kizashi's face made Mebuki's heart ache. He had always been a free and uplifting spirit, she couldn't stand seeing him shoulder all the blame. She rose from her seat to cross over and embrace her husband. Her warm arms wrapped around his form and hugged him gently. "I'll work overseas." she whispered."I'll work overseas and take up that job your sister had offered before, remember dear?" She felt his breath still beneath her embrace.
"Mebuki…you don't have to. We could think of another way." His hand gently grasped onto her wrist as he turned to face her completely in his seat. "It's the only way Kiza. The job she can secure me, would pay twice as much and it'll help us get back on our feet in a few months time." She let out a silent sigh and looked down into his weary eyes. "Kiza, right now this seems to be the most appropriate action to take. The cafe earnings and my part-time cleaning jobs are not enough. Oh honey, times are just harder than they used to be."
The Haruno family was in debt, Sakura knew this to be true, but she hadn't realize how bad it had gotten to be at this point. Overhearing her parents talk about their financial struggles made her heart crumple every time she would hear them speak of the matter. Having just turned eighteen only a few months prior, she began actively searching for employment to help her family out. However, her mother eventually found this out and advised she focus on her studies. University was the priority, her mother had preached, graduating and landing a good job was the hope her parents held onto for their precious daughter.
Sakura went to sit back down upon her bed, she reached under her pillow to withdraw a small pink diary journal. Within it, held her most precious memories, tragic sorrows and exciting drama-filled adventures she had experienced throughout her high school years. Having graduated last year, she no longer added entries, but for the first time since her senior year, she began writing.
The next morning, she was awoken by a gentle nudge to her shoulder. "Sakura, sweetie, it's time to get up. Breakfast is almost ready. " Mebuki watched as Viridescent eyes slowly opened to gaze back at her. "Okay mama, I'll be out in a few minutes." Her mother silently nodded and moved to leave and shut the door behind her. Alone again, Sakura sat up and rubbed the sleep away from her eyes. I wonder when they are going to tell me. A hand came up to push back the long curtain of pink rose-colored hair as she swung her legs over the edge of the bed and rose to her feet. Today was another new day, but it felt far from normal.
Down the hall, the sweet aroma of a freshly cooked meal wafted through the air, filling the entire kitchen and living room. She could hear her mother and father talking among each other as they finished cooking the last side dish. Her father acknowledged her presence first. "Good morning kiddo, do you mind setting the plates down? We're almost done here." he gestured to the simmering pot of miso soup. "Sure Dad." She did as she was asked, and set the table for breakfast.
Once all the food had been placed neatly across the table, they all settled into their seats and began eating in silence. Though this silence was not unusual, the unpleasant heaviness of the air around them made the anxiety within her rise significantly. Peeking up at her parents through long lashes, she saw they gave no indication of discussing the stressful topic she was anticipating to hear.
Soon, they finished their meals and began cleaning up. Sakura wiped the table clean and again, glanced up at her parents who now had their backs turned to her as they washed the dishes together. Her expectancy was growing each minute they had said nothing, she wondered when they were going to come out and tell her. Sakura promised herself she would let them tell her when they were ready, but her restraint had gotten the best of her. Before she could stop herself, her mouth began moving on it's own. "So." she began. "When are you leaving?" Mebuki's shoulders tensed, then relaxed regaining her composure as she turned to face Sakura with a gentle smile, she knew delaying the topic any further from her daughter would do no good to anyone. "I called your Auntie earlier this morning. She says she can get me on a flight tomorrow morning and set me up to start working overseas. I should be able to start at my new job just the day after I arrive."
"You're leaving tomorrow." Sakura repeated quietly. Kizashi exchanged glances with his wife before speaking, his voice was quieter than usual. "Mom will be going to work for a while, just to help us get caught up." He watched as Sakura slowly nodded her head and lifted her eyes to meet his own in mutual understanding. He knew she would understand, she always did. Even as a child, she was a very understanding, kind-hearted individual who was clever beyond her years. This was the reason he put forth so much effort to lighten the mood and bring positive energy to their small home as best he could. Times were tough, but that didn't mean they couldn't be happy together.
His face brightened with a smile as he motioned a finger pointing to himself, and then to Sakura. "Hey, it'll be me and you kiddo. We'll manage the fort while mom is away." He let out a short chuckle as he walked over and gently nudged an elbow into her side. "Now I finally might get to treat myself to some late night snacks after dinnertime. You know she never lets me have too much sugar late into the evening."
"You know I can hear you, right dear?" Mebuki sighed, amused. Kizashi waved his hands dismissively as he smiled back at his wife. "Ah, honey. You know I was just kidding, heh."
Sakura just stood and watched as they continued to bicker back and forth, she was going to miss this. But like her father had said, this arrangement was only for a little while, right? She could only hope so.
The following morning felt like any other, except it wasn't. She woke up earlier than usual to get ready and send her mother off. Knowing the cab was scheduled to arrive later that morning, she wanted to spend as much time around her mother as she could . In the meantime, she helped her father make breakfast and set the table while Mebuki double checked her luggage. Everyone knew this essentially would be the last time they would all sit and eat together as a family, and so they would relish these last few memories.
This time around the table, they all spoke and joked freely, enjoying each other's company until it was nearing the time for departure. Kizashi pulled the two women in for the longest hug until the sound of a car horn alerted them of the cab's arrival, they separated and went on to help Mebuki place her luggage and things inside the trunk of the car. Before she climbed into the back seat, they all said their last good-byes, then she turned to place a kiss upon Sakura's cheek, and a bittersweet peck to her husband's lips. "Sakura dear, please make sure your father doesn't cause too much trouble while I'm away." Sakura giggled and nodded while looking back at her father who also couldn't help but laugh along. "Mebuki please, you make me sound like some sort of troublemaker. I'll be good, don't you worry now." Ending with that, the door finally shut and the car slowly took off. Sakura and Kizashi stood waving on the curb as they watched the cab drive away, she could still see her mother waving at them through the back window. I'll miss you mama. Be safe.
Once the cab disappeared around the corner, Kizashi turned to face his daughter and placed a hand upon her shoulder. "Ah. One more thing, we probably won't be hearing from her for a while, it will take some time for her to get the phone set up when she gets there. But hey, time flies by and before you know it we'll be texting and calling her everyday." She nodded with bitter acceptance and turned to walk back inside with him, life had felt so unfair at this moment. Why can't I win the lottery or something? If only mom would've approved of small-game gambling, I wouldn't have had to hide my tickets from her. I'm so glad Dad didn't tell her about it.
Flash back~
It was nearing midnight when Sakura sat upon her bed scratching off lottery tickets, with the first two tickets being losses, she prayed the last would be a lucky one. Each number she scratched made her heart flip, and so far the numbers she had revealed were matching the winning set. With one more number to reveal she placed her coin and began scratching the paper.
Suddenly, her door swung open and in walked her father. Her eyes grew as her head quickly snapped to look at him. Without speaking a word, they stared at each other for the longest minute until he broke the awkward silence. It was when he spoke, did she realize she was still holding the lottery ticket out in the open for all to see. She sat and watched in horror as he quietly closed the door behind him. "Now Sakura, is that a lotto ticket I see?" he questioned with raised brows. He made his way to her, confirming what he saw.
Shit.
"Uh…yeah it is Dad." Her gaze lowered almost immediately. "I was trying to score some money so I could attend this field trip at school, it's not a mandatory thing, but I thought it'd be fun to go. Ino had offered to help pay for me, but I refused." She watched as Kizashi lowered himself to sit next to her on the bed. "You don't have to do this kiddo. I would've given you some money, you know that. How did you even get these tickets? You're only seventeen, I thought the age restriction was eighteen and up?"
Her fists balled the sheets as she began her explanation. "It's just that I know we're tight on money right now. I didn't want to bring it up, or else you and mom would've forced me to take the money. Oh, and Ino got it for me. She said she would've cashed the tickets for me if I got lucky." Ino had turned eighteen earlier in the high school year, so buying the tickets was no issue for her.
She felt the bed shift as her father turned to face her completely. All she could do now was wait until he began reprimanding her for hiding such a hobby, but instead, she heard nothing of the sort. Instead, he suddenly stood to his feet and began dancing as if he were a graceful geisha. Confused, she stared at him until he turned to raise her off the bed and spin her around while laughing. Sakura halted their motions to question why on earth he was dancing around like a crazy person, he simply took the lotto ticket from her and pointed at the last number she had scratched off. Her eyes widened and so then the happy dancing resumed.
They cheered until they heard the door open behind them, revealing a confused, yet amused Mebuki. "What on earth are you two celebrating?" she asked from the doorway. She watched as her husband waltzed over to her and grabbed her hands. "Well dear, it appears we have a winning ticket with the prize money of Six-hundred and seventy thousand yen!" (This is roughly the equivalent to five thousand US dollars.) Without giving her a chance to question why they had a lottery ticket in the first place, he pulled her to him and began waltzing around the room whilst happily humming a random tune.
Flashback End~
The remainder of the day flew by as they continued on like normal. They made dinner together, cleaned up and were now enjoying a cup of tea while finishing up a movie in the living room. With the evening approaching, everything grew quieter as the sun began its journey to nightfall. Sakura stretched her arms overhead and let out a yawn before standing up and checking the digital clock hanging upon the wall. 'Eleven thirty p.m.' it displayed in red digits. "I think I'm ready for bed now, I'm getting pretty tired. Oh, and don't worry about the leftover tea, I'll clean it up after I get done showering."
"Okay, I'll hold you to that kiddo." Kizashi yawned out. After she left the room to prepare for her shower, he began flipping through the channels to find his favorite pro-wrestling station. "Alright!" he excitedly exclaimed. He immediately sat up and leaned forward as the wrestlers began their special moves around the ring."Get him!" he cheered and fist pumped the air. He then rose to his feet as the wrestlers prepared for their final bone crushing move, unbeknownst to him, his excitement would be short-lived.
Five hard knocks on the front door echoed through the living room. At this hour of the night, he already knew who would be waiting on the other side. Knowing to not make them wait any longer, he quickly turned the tv off and made his way to the door. As soon as he twisted the door knob, the door flew open and knocked him back onto his bum. The two visitors casually walked in, and scanned the room before their gaze fell back down onto a stunned Kizashi.
"Ah, well look who the fuck it is. So how are you doing on this fine evening in little ol' Konoha, Hm, Haruno?" the silver haired man sarcastically questioned. The second man walked up from the doorway to look over the living room once more. "Hidan, enough." Kakuzu stated coldly. Hidan imitated a hurt expression before letting a wicked grin spread across his face. "Oh come on Kakuzu, stop being a party-pooper. Can't I simply greet the bastard? I'm only being polite and showing my manners and shit. I mean, we are in his home and everything so what's the big deal? Oh and speaking of manners and such, aren't you going to show us around Haruno? Looks like you redecorated since last time we were here."
Kakuzu let an audible sigh escape, as his head shook in annoyance. "Pardon my partner's foolishness Mr. Haruno." Hidan turned to argue, but was abruptly cut off. "So, as you've probably already guessed…we've come to collect." Kakuzu simply stated.
Kizashi rose from his position on the floor and stood to face the two dangerous men. He thought he had a bit more time before seeing these two again, but obviously they had other plans for him. Usually they would visit him during the daytime when Mebuki took her turn in managing the cafe and Sakura would be away with her friends, so this late night visit did indeed surprise him. Little beads of sweat began forming upon his face as he looked at them, their aura was definitely something that felt evil and menacing, it made his skin crawl. His thoughts then returned to Sakura. Oh no, this isn't good...Sakura. His fingers began tingling as cold numbness crept its way throughout his body. His attempts at staying clam began to waver as a fresh wave of panic grew within his chest, all he could do at this point was pray Sakura would not come out until after the men had left.
"Ah, yes. Of course, the payment." His hands grew slick with sweat. "I just wasn't expecting your presence so soon." A nervous smile appeared as he watched Hidan loiter around the room to check out the tv and the various pictures that were displayed on the shelves. Kakuzu intently watched the nervous man jump as his partner began commenting on the items he observed.
"Oho! Well then." smirking, Hidan picked up a frame that contained Sakura's picture. "Damn, you didn't tell me you had such a pretty daughter, Haruno. I'd like to meet her." his tone tinted with growing interest as he eyed the picture, studying the rosette's pretty features. Kizashi's blood ran cold as another surge of dread pumped its way through his limbs. Dumbfounded, his mouth began moving to form words that just wouldn't come out, he couldn't let them find out Sakura was just down the hall.
Composing himself once more, his attention shifted back to Kakuzu who was now glaring at him. "My daughter is no longer living here, she moved out once she graduated." he explained, hoping this excuse would suffice. This only earned him a disapproving look from the man before him. "That is of no importance to me, what I want to know Mr. Haruno, is if you have the payment that you owe us." Kakuzu questioned with a raised brow.
Kizashi swallowed thickly and took in a deep breath, he knew they weren't going to like his explanation but it was the truth."Ah, well the situation has changed a bit. My wife left to work overseas, so I don't have the due portion just yet. But I could-"
A large hand suddenly closed around his neck before he could add any more to his explanation. The air stilled in his throat and a feeling of immense pressure began to quickly build up in his face and eyes. Desperately, he tried to breathe but Hidan's grip was too strong. "Sounds like someone is a little short of breath today. Now I might've heard wrong, but it sounded like you said you don't have our fucking money. Did I hear you right?" Hidan questioned. His fingers pressed further into Kizashi's throat as he watched the struggling man's various expressions that crossed his features.
When Kizashi felt his feet lift off of the ground, he heard a small gasp come from the direction of the bedrooms. His bloodshot eyes darted to Sakura who was now standing at the entrance of the hallway. "Saku-" he croaked out before being released and dropped to the ground.
"Oi Kakuzu, look who showed up to join the party, seems Jashin has answered my prayers!" By now Hidan's attention was solely focused on her, his hungry eyes looked up and down her stiff form while she stood frozen staring at the three men before her. "Oh pardon my rudeness. My name is Hidan, and this is my partner, Kakuzu. We were just paying a visit to your father, but it seems he's not enjoying our company. " The smug expression he brazenly wore, did nothing to comfort her. She witnessed how he had looked when he was strangling her father only moments ago, he seemed to enjoy it.
"Dad, what the hell is going on?" she cautiously questioned. Her green eyes studied the intimidating men that stood in the middle of her living room, she first looked over Kakuzu whose entire head was covered with a balaclava type material, only his eyes were visible; the green irises and red sclerae left her to wonder how someone could posses such strange eye coloring, his dark tank top and black pants seemed normal enough. Next she noticed Hidan, who was devouring her with his eyes. He stood taller than his partner and donned a simple black shirt paired with dark jeans that had several small chains hanging loosely off the belt loops. His silver hair was slicked back as neat as a business mogul would've worn it. They definitely looked the part of a gangster.
With no response from a rattled Kizashi, Hidan took the opportunity to speak, his voice laced with mockery. "Oh he's not speaking up to tell you what's happening? Well I'll fill you in sweetheart, see your father owes us quite a bit of fucking money, but he's not ready to pay up yet. So we came over to try and solve this issue, it's nothing personal really, it's just business."
Oh God...they're loan sharks. her thoughts scattered as she tried registering everything until he continued.
"You know, I think I have an idea. Hey you old fuck, I have a proposal." he tilted his head towards Kizashi, but his lecherous violet eyes remained on Sakura. "You give us your pretty little daughter and we'll close your account. Your debt, fulfilled." he watched with delight as she shuddered at his suggestion, it only made his lopsided grin grow.
Kakuzu crossed his arms and stared at the girl. "Hm. She would do nicely if we were to take her." He looked down at the trembling man, who was now shaking his head in a trance-like state. "Since Mr. Haruno cannot pay up, I believe it would be a fair trade indeed." Kizashi's eyes locked onto Sakura's as he continued to shake his head. "No..no." he whispered to himself. "Not my daughter...anything but my daughter." His eyes then watched as Hidan made his way towards Sakura.
"Get out of here now Sakura, I'll be fine!" Kizashi hysterically yelled. The hoarseness of his voice frightened her. She wanted to run over and help him, but ceased further movement as she watched Hidan slowly approach. What in the world could she do against two full grown men whose auras screamed 'death and destruction'? She began backing up into the hallway towards her room then swiftly turned to run. "Run and don't look back!" she heard her father yell as she slammed the door shut.
A loud chuckle erupted from Hidan as he brought a hand up to run through his slicked back hair. "Okay, so she wants to play hide and seek. I'm down." his voice then amplified to ensure she would hear what he had to say next. "I'm feeling generous tonight, so I'll give you a fifteen second head start to hide Sakura. Then you know, I'll come and seek. I'd pick a good hiding spot if I were you." His gaze lowered onto Kizashi who was now eyeing him with hatred.
The dresser furniture and table stand were shoved and knocked over to block her door in hopes of delaying Hidan entering the room. Though with his strong stature she knew it would be easy enough for him to force his way in, but still she had to make her efforts. Frantic hands raked through her silky pink hair in a motion of panic. This isn't happening. This is so not happening. She began mindlessly stuffing random articles of clothing in her backpack, her pink diary journal and a family portrait she kept at bedside.
Just as the bag was zipped, she heard melodic whistling and heavy footsteps approaching the door. BOOM. The door bent and broke like a graham cracker when the force of Hidan's boot connected to it. He kicked it down so easily as well as shattering the furniture into bits and pieces. Once he entered, he quickly scanned the small space but to no avail, she was nowhere in sight. It was then, a sudden gust of cool wind brushed against his face from the curtained windows. "Damn it, sly girl." He looked out and down the open window, looking for any trace of her, but found nothing. The drop from the third floor must've been a hard one, it left him wondering how she managed to leave so quickly. After all, he did only give her a head start of fifteen seconds, he figured she would have stayed and hidden somewhere in the room. A lost cause, it truly was, for he so badly wanted to see the sheer fear and panic in those pretty jade eyes.
Kizashi's continuous pleas to let his daughter go, regained his attention so he made his way back to see an unamused Kakuzu standing next to the begging man. "The bitch is gone. Jumped out the window." he said, his tone apparent of annoyance. His arms crossed in front of his chest as he leaned against the wall like a child who had gotten his toy taken away. Kakuzu looked over to his partner and shook his head. "Stop your pouting Hidan. We'll just have to think of another way to handle this matter, isn't that right Mr. Haruno?"
"Yeah I have a pretty good fucking idea of what we can do to this rat." Hidan grimly said as he revealed a large triple bladed scythe. "Let me sacrifice him." He moved towards Kizashi but halted as Kakuzu held a hand up. "No, I have other plans for him. I'll need him alive and well." With a displeased look upon his face, Hidan nodded as he muttered obscenities under his breath.
Anything the men had discussed went unheard by Kizashi, all he was focused on was his own thoughts of his wife and Sakura. Right then, he vowed to never let Sakura fall into the arms of danger. No matter the cost, he would oblige for her sake. He had just hoped he would live long enough to see her face again.
As long as Sakura is safe, I will be okay.
Sakura had managed to jump out of the window just in time before Hidan kicked down her door, she was barely hanging off the window sill when he forced his way in. The fall was a long one, but luckily the neighbors on the two lower levels below had a petite roof-like awning over their windows as well as a balcony she could use to climb down. She placed her feet onto the roof structure and maneuvered her way down until she reached the ground. All her mind repeatedly thought was to run away run away run away, her feet felt as if they weren't even touching the ground and her lungs felt like they were on fire as she pushed to run as fast as her legs would carry her.
It was well past midnight at this point and so the village and town had significantly quieted down. As tempting as it was to run down the middle of the roadway and yell for help, she didn't want to risk the chance of letting herself be seen in public after such a horrendous encounter. For all she knew those criminals had back-up scattered around, and she was in no state to face any of them, especially now that she knew she had a target on her back. Swiftly, she sped down the next alleyway she came across and made her way out towards Konoha central park.
The park was decently sized and offered a variety of activities for the general population to enjoy, from sports to small eatery vendors, it seemed to offer it all. She had spent many days here with her high school friends sipping on iced lattes and ogling over a variety of cute boys that were featured in their teen magazines. But today was different. Today would make a negative impact in her mind, the memory of running to seek sanctuary now inextricably tied to this place.
She ran until she reached the entrance of the park, she knew it was well lit during the night thus offering her a small sense of comfort. She clumsily came to a stop and bent over to let her burning lungs stabilize. After a few minutes passed, the sick feeling in the pit of her stomach threatened to come up as she forced herself to stand back up straight. Images of her father with bloodshot eyes and the look on his face kept haunting her mind, it settled in as the last memory she would have so far of him. Feelings of guilt, anger and frustration washed over her again and again as she recalled everything that happened.
What am I going to do now...I could go to Ino's house, I'm sure she'd let me stay over. She considered this option viable but dismissed it. God...no, she doesn't need to be involved in this, if they somehow track me there she'll be in danger too. Shaking the thought away she continued down the pathway, soon she found a bench to rest and contemplate what she was to do now at this point. To clear her mind, she considered walking all the way around the oval-shaped sidewalk that encircled the sports field, but her tired body rejected the idea. Taking a seat, she shrugged her bag off and let it hit the ground with a thud. Oh mom, she doesn't even know. All the things that had happened tonight felt like a bad nightmare, only she was living it out.
Her eyes shut closed as she tried regulating her shaky breathing pattern. Breathe her thoughts chanted. Just Brea-
"Hey man." A loud voice boomed through the silent air. "That's a nice jacket you got on. I bet it cost you a pretty penny, didn't it?" Her exhausted green eyes shot wide open and began frantically looking around until she found the source of the sound.
Sakura watched across the field as three young men emerged from behind some trees and bushes. She focused her eyes and found them to be familiar-looking. They made their way to approach a tall man that had been walking alone down the sidewalk. With grins splayed across their faces, they began provoking the man.
"With a nice coat like that, I'm sure those pockets are pretty fat and well fed." one of the men announced. She observed as another man stepped closer to the stranger with a small pocket knife held up in a threatening manner. "Hand over all you've got." The innocent man's hands raised and calmly waved in front of him. "Gentleman, is it not past your curfews? I'm simply walking along, I mean you no harm."
This made the knife wielding man chuckle. "Oh boy, we got a funny guy here! By the way, we graduated this year already so we don't have curfews! And what the hell do you mean by 'you mean us no harm?' Tch, a rich-looking guy like you surely can't win against the three of us. Let's get em' guys." The trio began closing in on the man, until a feminine voice rang through the air. "Hey you punks leave that man alone!" Sakura demanded. The offending men all turned to look where the voice resonated and witnessed a small figure approach, she stopped just before them with balled fists and narrowed eyes. "Is that Sakura Haruno I spy?" one of them croaked out.
"Kaito, I see you, Hatsu and Tora are still up to your childish bullying tactics." Sakura didn't know if it was confidence that bubbled within her, or left over adrenaline. Regardless, it did help that she knew the men from her graduating school year, she recalled they were notorious bullies that would often steal other students lunch money and torment them just for fun.
She looked over the trio as they stood there gaping at her, it was as if they hadn't changed a bit since school. They all fashioned a diverse collection of baggy pants and hoodies, apart from their hairstyles, one would think they were trying to coordinate their outfit choices. Her eyes then wandered to Tora, who she was more acquainted with. Tora, the knife wielding man, was tutored by her for a whole semester, and towards the end of the year he confessed his feelings to her. Ultimately, she kindly rejected him and he would go on to continue crushing on her even after the fact. Now she witnessed him holding a knife in hand, threatening someone innocent. It sickened her.
The weight of her stare made him uncomfortably ashamed. The girl he still held feelings for was now standing before him, giving him a nasty glare. He quickly lowered his weapon and put it away into his jean pocket. "Ah, Sakura-chan, uh. What are you doing here out this late? It's cold out." She could tell he tried to make himself seem less of a threat with the way his demeanor had changed.
Ignoring his question, she went on to address the leader of their posse. "Kaito, take your friends and leave before I call the authorities." Kaito and Hatsu looked at each other and began laughing. "Oh no Hatsu, she's going to call the authorities, we better leave." Hatsu wiped a small tear off his face and pointed at her, his nasally voice made her ears twinge. "What are you going to do, call our parents as well? Hahahahaha! You should really learn to stop being such a nosy bitch and be on your way, before you end up in trouble." She scoffed at his attempt to be intimidating and crossed her arms. "You know after all those years of following Kaito and Tora around, I thought you would have learned to pull the whole 'bully vibe' together." She could tell this struck a nerve in him as his face gave way to his emotions. Riled up, he moved to walk up to her but was grabbed and pulled back, he began to protest but was silenced with a gesture of Kaito's hand.
Kaito then took a step forward to challenge her, he wasn't going to let some girl show him up or any of his boys. Now standing close enough that she could feel his unpleasant breath on her face, he began his attempt at terrorizing her. "So tell me, do you honestly think a small fragile girl like you could beat all three of us if we were to jump you right now? Just go home bitch, before I change my mind."
Something in her clicked, maybe her self-restraint or her sanity, nevertheless, what her body was about to do was totally unpredicted. With nothing but a single goal in mind, she took a step back, reeled her arm back and pushed it forward and into his face, her fist felt every crunch of his facial bones under the weight of her punch. Stunned, he stumbled back and fell onto the ground, holding his face. "You…You bitch!" he muttered looking up at her.
"Tsk Tsk, and I thought we were past the name-calling." she jeered. Hatsu and Tora both stared in awe, they were almost too shocked to even say or do anything. Hatsu was the first to react, he looked down at Kaito then back to Sakura whose expression was nothing less than formidable. "H-hey you can't do that!" was all he could think to say. He took a step towards her, but felt Tora's hand pull him back almost immediately. "Leave her be, Hatsu."
"Dude are you serious, you're still trying to defend her? She just punched the shit out of Kaito! Don't let your little crush on her blind you, she's the one who picked a fight with us remember?!" The two continued on to argue, until they saw Kaito fly up onto his feet and dash away as fast as he possibly could. "What the hell?" the two men said in unison. Without questioning their leaders actions, they both ran after him trying to catch up.
Tora and Hatsu ran until they spotted Kaito bent over hyperventilating in a nearby alleyway, as they came closer they saw he had lowered himself onto his hands and knees. "Dude are you okay?" Hatsu asked, concerned. "That guy.. He's a demon…h-he's-" Kaito shrieked. Tora squatted down to listen more closely. "What did you say? Who's a demon?" he watched as his trembling posse leader snapped his head up to look at him with terror-stricken eyes. "That guy was a demon! His eyes…his eyes were red. All I remember is that he told me he'd excuse my disrespectful actions against the girl just this once and then to get out of his sight...my body felt so heavy after that... but I-I just ran." He let his head sink down into his hands and dropped to lay on the ground, still muttering his recollections of what had happened.
Satisfied with the outcome of the situation, Sakura watched as the fleeing men disappeared into the night. Man, what a night...first the loan sharks, then this. What else is going to happen to me? Her ongoing thoughts were then interrupted by a smooth voice. "Excuse me, Miss?"
She turned to address the voice that called to her attention but found herself speechless as her eyes viewed the stranger behind her. It's the man those idiots were ganging up on. she noticed. Impulsively she took in his features. His fair untarnished skin seemed too perfect, his ebony eyes were shielded with long dark lashes that made her jealous, raven black hair framed his aristocratic features; the smooth-looking hair cascaded into a loose ponytail down his neck and stopped at the top of his shoulders. He was beautiful she concluded. She then noticed his clothing style that just pulled his look altogether. He adorned a dark shirt covered with a formal fashioned trench coat, black slacks and slick black Oxford shoes. He made looking that good seem effortless. The small insecure voice in her head secretly wished it was as easy for her.
Noticing she hadn't said a word to respond, he kindly smiled, making him appear even more regal and striking. "Thank you, young Miss." The gentleness of his deep voice filled her ears leaving her to feel comforted. In fact, just his presence and aura had calmed her but she didn't dwell too much on that thought.
"O-oh it's nothing, I know those guys. They used to do that type of thug bullying around school all of the time. Are you alright?" She looked over his form once more, this time checking for any injuries. He motioned his head, affirming his unharmed state. "I am fine." he simply stated. "That was quite brave of you, I wasn't expecting such company this late into the evening. I must say, I sincerely appreciate your efforts." Her hands came up to wave dismissively. "Oh no, it was nothing, really. I just hate seeing others bully innocent people, it's not right." He nodded, appreciating this answer. "Very noble, indeed." he added.
They stood in silence for a moment until she blurted out the question she had been thinking. "So what brings you out here tonight?" She bit into her lower lip in fear of anything else slipping out. What is wrong with me, now he'll think I'm a stalker creep. If gawking at the man wasn't embarrassing enough...
As if he didn't notice her inner turmoil, he casually responded. "Every now and then, I take strolls around this park after my day's work is complete. The air in Konoha is significantly more pure than other parts of the country." She nodded her head in agreement and continued. "Oh I agree, the citizens keep the village tidy here so it really helps keep the air clear and toxic free." Though not the reason he had in mind, he simply went along with it and chuckled softly. "Yes, it's true. The people's assistance with cleanliness also helps."
As they continued their conversation, she led them back across the field to her belongings. Once they reached the bench they both took a seat; with a hopeful thought she picked her bag up and began rummaging through it to find her cellphone. I know I left it in here yesterday. Come on come on...
As soon as she felt the object, she pulled it out and frowned at the device, the screen was shattered with deep cracks that spread over the entire front. "I guess I wouldn't have been able to call anyone if it came down to that back there. I guess I was lucky." Out of nowhere, she began laughing, she suddenly didn't care that he was there to witness as she unfolded. Without looking at him, she immediately apologized. "I'm so sorry to burst out like this, it's just... you don't know how ironic the word 'lucky' is to me right now." She continued laughing on a minute longer, until she collected herself once more and looked away, embarrassed yet again. She dare not to look at him after such a spectacle.
Yep, now he's definitely going to think I'm batshit crazy.
Hearing not a word from him, she peeked over at the man and saw his gaze was focused on the ground ahead. Without knowing what else to do, she spoke up first. "I'm sorry about that, please excuse me." Her hands joined together atop her lap and fidgeted ever so slightly as she awaited his response. What would he say? Would he ridicule her or give her a strange glance? She had hoped not.
I made him so uncomfortable he's not even looking at me anymore...I just want to crawl under a rock.
"It's impolite to stare when a Lady is having a moment to herself." he said as he brought those ebony eyes back up, meeting her soft gaze. It's as if he had heard her thoughts and unspoken worries. "Thank you." she whispered. Clearly seeing the misery that held her prisoner, he placed a warm hand upon her shoulder, his touch appeared to have some effect resulting in her tensed shoulders dropping. Whether it was the significance of a stranger asking about her well being, or the mountain of emotions that she held in, it was in this moment she had decided to let it all unleash.
"It's just…"
With those two words, it all came out like an unstoppable force. She explained everything that transpired that night. From her family's situation to her father being beaten by loan sharks and then finally to running away with nowhere else to go but the park. He nodded ever so often and listened intently until she was finished. "I know it's crazy of me to just spill heavy stuff to a stranger, and I'm sorry to lay it all on you like this but it's just so much to process and accept." Instinctively, her arms wrapped around herself seeking solace.
"I am Itachi." he coolly introduced. Viridescent eyes lifted to look at him once more. "Huh?" Her head shook to dismiss the foolish response, she clearly heard him state his name. "I'm Sakura." He dipped his head in acknowledgment and stuck a single hand out to her, she first looked at the extended palm before grasping and shaking it. "We are no longer strangers, so please, do not apologize for expressing your feelings, Sakura."
"Sakura, I am truly sorry to hear all that has happened to you, so I'd like to bring forth an idea if you don't mind?" He waited until she signaled for him to continue. "I am going to be leaving the village for a work opportunity, and I have a home on the eastern side of the village, if you would like, you may take up residence there as I won't be needing this home any longer. The place is fully paid for so you won't have to worry about any sort of payments or bills."
Astounded, she couldn't find the words to even reply to the generous offer he had laid out. "Seriously? I mean…wow." She was caught off guard, she couldn't believe her ears. He would let a person he had just met stay in his home, that was already fully accommodated, and with no rent or payments to take care of? This was too good to be true. But what other options did she have to choose from than to accept this one? Staying at Ino's place was out of the question, public shelters were a no-go due the threat of being seen by the loan sharks and the public park was too open and left room for trouble.
"It is yours if you wish it to be." he reassured, as a gentle smile reappeared once more. "I just didn't want the place to go to waste under someone who would not care for it as they should. But with you, I see the purity of your kind-hearted spirit, so I have faith you would be the perfect person to inhabit it. Also, the paperwork to find someone else is quite troublesome." For some reason, this pushed down any doubts that consumed her and a small smile formed upon her lips. "You know what, I think I'll take you up on that offer." This is probably the craziest thing I've ever done, but at least it's better than sleeping in the park. She felt a piece of paper being pressed into her palm and looked down to view it, neatly written on it was the address of Itachi's home.
Before she could thank him, he leaned over and pressed a kiss upon her forehead. It was an unexpected action, but she didn't flinch or move away from it. Warmth that felt ethereal, spread throughout her body, it wasn't the butterflies she'd imagined they would be, but something more divine. It felt so pure in a celestial sense. Though it felt like an eternity, it only lasted a few seconds before he released her and sat back against the bench.
Without realizing it sooner, her eyes had closed on their own while appreciating the feeling of the comforting warmth his kiss had provided. "Thank you Sakura, you'll do well in your journey." His soothing voice roused her back to reality, her eyes fluttered open to look at him but he was nowhere to be seen. "Itachi?" she called out, but no response came. She looked all around the vicinity from where she sat, but found no sign of any other person present. The thought of someone disappearing so suddenly made her question whether or not he was real or some sort of angelic being or spirit. The only evidence she had proving it all was real, was the small piece of paper sitting in her hand. Pushing the final thoughts and worries away, she grabbed her backpack and began her way to the given address, to her new home.
So this just gives an insight where Sakura is coming from and her predicament. I hope you liked it! There are more chapters to come, so leave a review/comment if you'd like. Thank you for reading!