Disclaimer: I do not own Naruto!

Summary: Misunderstandings can be a real mess. What if, their relationship falters over just a small misunderstanding? Is there still hope for love? Join Neji and Sakura through a series of love encounters, leading them towards each other and clearing up any misunderstandings between them. NejixSaku.

Naruto, the 7th Hokage, was getting ready to marry his one and only true love, Hinata. Sakura, the maid of honor. Hyuuga Neji, the best man has been given the super important job of teaching her the waltz. In times of desperation, meddling is the only way to go.

Timeline: Three years after the Fourth Shinobi World War. Sakura is 20 years old, while Neji is 21. Neji lived.

What if, SasuSaku didn't end up together in the series. Things could have taken a different turn. Even after a year together, Sakura hasn't moved past the emotional scars of their past. Despite her understanding of his commitment to justice and the restoration of the Uchiha clan, she wasn't ready to be the clan's matriarch or a baby breeder. Neji's sacrifices in the wars had a profound effect on her. Her priorities, beliefs, and aspirations changed as she got older. She wasn't a teen pining for his love anymore. After reassessing their relationship, she decided to part ways.

Author's Note: Obviously canon divergence. Rated M for smut and lemons.

Chapter 1

Three months had flown by since Sakura received the Hokage wedding invitation. Naruto made sure the Suna son-in-law personally delivered the invitation to her, so it wouldn't get lost. She couldn't forget the moment she got the card. It had red wax seals and the crests of the Uzumaki and Hyuuga clans on a lustrous cream envelope. Her heart filled with joy as she opened the golden wedding invitation, featuring the war hero and the Hyuuga heiress.

The pinkette regretted not being there for the Hokage inauguration last year. But she made up for it by sending her wishes and a special gift. She couldn't miss their big day! It was her chance to make amends and let go of guilt. And she felt honored to be chosen as their maid of honor. She was convinced it would be Hanabi.

Sakura was so grateful for their friendship. They had been through so much after she saved her cousin and brought him back from the brink of death during the war. It was incredible how tough situations can bring people together and create lifelong bonds.

The relationship between Sunagakure and Konohagakure strengthened under Naruto's Hokageship. As a legendary medic from Konoha, she received a special invitation from the Sunagakure medical division. They wanted her to join them for three whole years of medical ninjutsu research and academic exchanges. It was an incredible opportunity that she simply couldn't pass up. Developing medical ninjutsu is crucial for peace, saving lives, and advancing science. The Fourth Great Shinobi War had taken so many lives, leaving a lasting impact on her. Countless elite shinobi and innocent civilians lost their lives, while new orphanages and medical facilities were constructed. Their sacrifice, inscribed with badges of honor, will live on forever.

By taking on this mission, she could escape the fate of being nothing more than a baby-making machine for the Uchiha clan to preserve their legacy. Two years ago, she had bravely turned down Sasuke's wedding proposal. She loved him, but she simply couldn't bring herself to accept the situation. Now, all she wanted was some time to focus on her profession.

Sakura had temporarily halted her groundbreaking medical jutsu project to make sure she didn't miss a single moment of the highly anticipated wedding. She journeyed back to her home base. After two years in Sunagakure, she still couldn't get used to the constant heat and bright sunlight. She paused in her tracks to appreciate the lovely weather in Konoha. The autumnal green foliage sheltered her body from the chilly wind of the falls.

Her cherry-pink hair fluttered in the gentle breeze as she neared the Hokage monuments. She began to relax. Seven Hokage statues stood proudly atop the hill. A note was sent to Hokage Tower after her arrival.

In just two years, Konoha was rebuilt. The aftermath of the Shinobi World War was barely felt. After the restoration, Konoha grew and extended its reach behind the Hokage monuments, and the Thunder Rail was installed throughout the village.

As she walked past the academy's training grounds, she saw her best friend with a group of genin practicing their chakra control. Her mind overflowed with memories from her time as a Genin.

Ino was the first person she called when she got back to Konoha. She had become a Jonin, confidently leading her Genin squad. Of all her friends, the blonde one meant the world to her. They stay connected through phone calls and texts, feeling like no time has passed in the past two years. The blonde always had the inside scoop on everything happening in Konoha. News that Sasuke-kun had finally found love in the arms of the fiery-haired beauty surprised the pinkette. But it meant he had moved on from their relationship.

Finally, the two friends were able to catch up. They made plans to meet tonight at 8 at the Mint Bar. They were ecstatic to meet fellow kunoichi, their peers, who would be joining them.

With a graceful leap, the pink-haired girl soared from rooftop to rooftop. She landed with grace in front of the Hokage building. As she ascended in the glass elevator to the topmost level, she couldn't help but marvel at the serene sight of Konoha.

"SAKURA-CHAN! I can't believe how much I miss you!" Naruto shouted loudly.

"Omedetō, Naruto!"

His eyes, so blue and full of joy, sparkled like the sky. And his face lit up with a wide, beaming smile. As she looked at him, the Hokage, she felt a surge of admiration. He was determined, unfazed by his newfound duties. She was glad to see that his lively spirit was still intact.

He ran towards her, his face lighting up with joy, "I get it, you're all fired up to break free and pursue the noble path of medical studies, but hey, don't you dare forget about us back in Konoha, dattebayo!" He pulled the pinkette into a warm hug.

"You've grown a lot! And wow, your hair looks so... amazing." She hugged him back tightly.

She looking up at her sworn brother with warmth in her eyes. He towered over her, a foot taller. His blonde hair, once spiky, was now neatly shaved. He looked incredibly cool in his Hokage outfit. "I miss you too, so much!" Sakura lovingly ruffled his head.

Sakura approached the beautiful woman next to the Hokage, her long indigo hair cascading down her back. She gave her a quick peck on the cheek and squealed, "Omedetō, Hinata-chan!" As they held each other in an embrace, she gushed, "Oh you two are just meant to be! I'm so excited to see you walking down the aisle!"

"Get those hands ready, because you're catching that bouquet, alright?" The heiress let out a soft giggle as her beloved stood beside her, beaming with joy.

"Of course! I'll be there with bells on and everything!"

They exchanged warm greetings, their smiles lighting up the room. The wedding is only a month away. It was amazing to see them again and plan for tonight. They chatted, catching up on everything that had happened. She had a surprise for them, a wedding present. She pulled out an envelope from her bag.

Hinata opened the envelope and pulled out a piece of paper. Her cheeks turned rosy as she read the words.

"Guess what? I have a surprise for you two—a romantic honeymoon getaway!" Sakura winked at the heiress and said, "Imagine on Kirigakure's private island, a royal suite with its very own private onsen, surrounded by the most breathtaking mountains and a beautiful beach." She whispered to Hinata, "nights filled with unforgettable moments in sexy nightgowns and a cozy king-sized bed!" Sakura nudged her friend playfully. She'd been there before, drawn by the amazing spring water and its healing properties. The mineral composition was perfect for medical research.

"Whoo-hoo!" Naruto exclaimed, his eyes sparkling with excitement.

Her heart raced as she grasped the pinkette's suggestion, "Na-Nani?! S-Sakura—" Her cheeks turned a shade redder as she stuttered.

"I didn't plan it very well! Dat was exactly what we needed, believe it! Oh geez, I hope I haven't screwed up big time as a hubby!" The groom scratching the back of his head and smiled at his soon-to-be wife. He grinned widely, his cheeks all rosy and glowing like the sun.

"You're welcome!"

Sakura couldn't help but notice Hinata's stunning engagement ring. It was so beautiful. Happiness. That elusive feeling was something she had longed for in the past. This was the ideal state of a happy marriage, then.

Naruto flopped down onto his Hokage chair, surrounded by stacks of paperwork, tackling his never-ending mission reports. The entrance of an unexpected visitor took their attention away from their conversation.

With unwavering confidence, the Rinnegan wielder strode towards the Hokage's desk, disregarding the need for formalities.

He donned a sleek black ensemble, complete with a cloak, a high-collared top, pants, and sandals. His hair, dark and spiky, highlighted his perfect face. His captivating gaze, as dark as obsidian, never wavered. His stunning appearance and outstanding fighting abilities made him the object of affection for every girl in her Genin class. Sasuke, her ex, stood before her.

The prodigy returned from their mission, impressing everyone with their smooth success. After the Fourth Shinobi World War, Uchiha Sasuke was imprisoned for his defection. The Uchiha bloodline was too valuable to Konoha to risk extinction. His decision to aid the Konoha alliance paid off, and he was released from prison three years ago. Consumed by his guilt, the man embarked on a quest to redeem himself, accepting critical missions from the Hokage.

"Hmph," he drawled, sauntering towards them with an inscrutable gaze, "I trust my presence isn't disrupting any proceedings," his voice monotone, accompanied by a subtle smirk.

The Uchiha felt her presence upon entering. He finally wanted to tie the knot and start a family to carry on his clan's name, and Karin was there to support him every step of the way. It was difficult to make that decision. Just as Sasuke decided, the pinkette returned unexpectedly.

Sasuke recognized the kunoichi, but she was no longer the Genin she had been; she had now joined the ranks of the legendary Sanin. During his mission in Suna, he caught glimpses of her occasionally. In every single attempt he made to talk to her, she flat-out rejected him. The realization that she no longer prioritized him made his heart sink. As he watched her become herself, he experienced a range of emotions.

"Hello, Sasuke. It's been a while. How are you doing?" She seemed confident, but she was actually tense.

"Good," He calmly approached the Hokage's desk and politely inquired, "Just got back from Suna?" Typically, he does not partake in casual chit-chat, preferring to communicate his intentions directly and then carry on undisturbed.

"Yeah, just in time for Naruto's wedding."

"Sakura, are you available tonight?" He gazed into her green eyes and inquired about the chance of discovering hope.

"I'm sorry, Sasuke, but I have plans for tonight. Maybe another day?"

"That was pretty straightforward." He felt disappointed when he heard her answer, even though he had a feeling it would turn out that way. It seemed like no matter what he did, she always found a way to keep her distance from him.

The Uchiha placed the mission report on the polished wooden desk. The Hokage's stamp hit the mission report, echoing through the room. They talked about his mission. Naruto waved dismissively, ending the conversation. With a stoic expression, he gave a curt nod. As he prepared to make his exit, his steps halted abruptly, and his eyes locked onto Sakura, freezing her in place.

Sakura held her ground, unfazed by the intimidating intensity of those obsidian stares. They both felt in their hearts that their relationship was over. Nothing could change their relationship in the past.

His fingers were tantalizingly close to her knuckles in anticipation. He let his hand fall to his side, resisting the urge to touch. In a moment of deep yearning, he softly uttered, "Sakura, we will meet again." He disappeared into thin air with a flick of his hand, leaving a swirling smoke cloud.

The Hokage couple's gazes met, their hearts filled with a mix of worry and anxiety. The heiress leaned in close to Naruto, her voice barely audible as she shared her thoughts. He listened intently and nodded in agreement.

"Oh my gosh, guys, I am seriously wiped out after a long trip," the pinkette groaned dramatically, flopping onto the couch like a tired little marshmallow. They kept a close eye on her. "Hey, what's got you both so worried?"

Naruto asked, "Are you okay?" with worry in his voice.

"I'm fine, no big deal. I'm just… tired," she said, cutting them off in the middle of their worry. Her best friends knew for sure that she had been avoiding the Uchiha for two years. It was, like, so obvious that something was up between them.

"Sure thing, honey. Just chillin' on my comfy couch, no rush at all," he smiled and looked up from his cluttered desk for a second.

Hinata, with a cheerful glint in her white eyes, casually changed the topic, "Sakura-chan, have you found a place to stay? Please let us know where you pick, okay?"

The war took away her home and everything she owned. Soon after there was peace again, her parents went on a fancy trip around the world.

"I'm not sure about it yet, but it could be at Ino's, but… she was staying with Sai, and that just made things a tad inconvenient."

"Have you ever thought about staying at the Hyuuga compound?" Hinata asked, her white eyes sparkling with hope, "If you haven't found a place to stay, you're welcome to stay with us."

"Hmm… Would it be convenient?"

Convenient? I think it could be more than that.

"Of course, sweetheart. I'll have a room ready just for you!" Her white eyes shimmered with mischief, "Oh, I've found the perfect match for you at my wedding! He was the best man for Naruto-kun!"

"Sure, who could it be?" Sakura thought. Sai stood next to Ino and made it clear that he wasn't the one. Was it Kakashi-sensei? No way she would've guessed that Sasuke would be the one. No matter who it was, she'll be totally fine.

"It's Neji-niisan!" Hinata's voice rang out, her voice brimming with excitement and admiration.

Her favorite cousin was the perfect match for her maid of honor. They were a perfect match in every way imaginable. She just knew deep down that her cousin was the one who would truly understand and appreciate her. If fate doesn't bring them together, she will give them another chance to cross paths. In times of desperation, meddling was the only way to go.

"Oh well, I'm not surprised."

The name of the Hyuuga prodigy intrigued Sakura. The Hokage had complete faith in him. After miraculously surviving the war, he brought immense relief to those who cared about him, including herself.

Sai, Shikamaru, Kiba, Chouji, and Shino were the groomsmen. Naruto wanted his former sensei to be his groomsman but was heartbroken when the sensei declined. The silver head declined the invitation, preferring to stay out of the limelight. Iruka sensei left the task to the young ones. Sasuke-kun was still undecided.

"Hinata-chan, I've been wondering... does the maid of honor have any special duties? Maybe they'll have to dance at the wedding reception? To be honest, I'm very nervous."

The maid of honor, or right-hand girl, was the bride's wingwoman. She was prepared for her new responsibilities on the big day. The task ahead of her weighed heavily on her mind. She couldn't bear the thought of disappointing her friends, who had placed their trust in her dancing abilities.

"We're not doing a bridal party dance, so you won't feel awkward. But, the Hyuuga wedding is all about dancing etiquette. You know, the mellow crowd needs a few sympathy dancers to grace the dance floor and get the party started. So, you better be dancing..." The heiress saw the pinkette's worried expression and hastily added, "That's precisely why I convinced Neji-niisan to give you waltz lessons. Nii-san has always been a prodigy in our clan. He's just so amazing at everything, including social etiquette!"

As a proud member of the prestigious clan, Hinata, like the rest of the main family, had to go through intense training to uphold their bloodline. The main family made an exception for Neji to join the group. They had been taught every detail about their clan's affairs since becoming a Genin. They had even picked up a few social graces along the way.

That explained to Sakura why the Hyuugas, including Neji, are so polite and refined.

"Wait, are you, like, seriously telling me that Neji is gonna dance with me?"

"Sakura-chan, yes! Don't worry, niisan will be in charge of the dance and keeping an eye out for you," she reassured. "Just make sure to treat him nicely," she said with a wink, "he needs a dance partner for the ceremony."

The man was once engaged to the Fire Daimyo's daughter two summers ago. She heard from Ino that the betrothal was canceled, but she didn't want to ask for more details yet, despite her curiosity.

"So, are you in?" She clasped her hands tightly together, full of hope.

Her thoughts wandered to dancing with the charming Hyuuga. Her heart fluttered with a mix of excitement and a hint of nervousness. Could this be just another fleeting moment in their friendship? The agreement would give her more time to get to know him.

"Can I ever say no?" She muttered before succumbing. "Fine, fine, I'll do it."

"Yes!" Hinata's face brightened with a smile. "Will you come with me, Sakura-chan?" I have something very exciting to show you!" The Hyuuga heiress said this as she dragged the pink-haired kunoichi from the Hokage's office.

"Sure, where are we going?!"

The Hokage waved off the ladies, sighing. He leaned back, his head resting on his hand. Being the Hokage was no laughing matter. The guy had a ton of stuff to deal with - endless meetings, mountains of paperwork, and missions galore. He just couldn't catch a break. Being at the top, that's what it's all about, isn't it? With a weary heart, he pushed himself to return to work, knowing that there was still much to be done.

They arrived at the most extravagant bridal boutique in town before they headed back to the Hyuuga compound. Serving powerful clans and nobles. The wedding of the Hokage was going to be a grand event, befitting his high status and the esteemed family he was marrying into. Posh venue; fancy dress required.

Elegant chandeliers shone brightly in the center of the posh store, with a soft melody playing in the background. A stylish white velvet sofa set and a grand table with a lovely vase of white and lavender flowers occupied the center of the room. They approached the counter and requested try on for Sakura's specially ordered gown. A skilled stylist and her two assistants were on hand to help. They were led to a private dressing room reserved solely for the Hyuugas.

Three exquisite wedding gowns were specially designed and displayed in glass cases in the main hall. The mirrors showed off the magical creations in all their glory. The soft-gold wedding gown in the center sparkled with thousands of tiny rhinestones and had a semi-transparent bodice and a row of color-matched buttons down the back. Sakura was amazed by them.

The consultant showed the way to the area for the bridesmaids and maid of honor. Lavender was the main color for the bridesmaids. Hinata had the shop make another dress for Sakura for the reception that followed the wedding. Her name was written on the hanger. One was lavender, the other deep burgundy. Sakura loved the dresses. They asked her to try on the dresses. Sakura chose a dress and went to try it on.

Sakura donned the beautiful dress and stepped out of the changing room. She asked how she looked. It was a full-length lavender pleated dress with a low neck and a layered halterneck that trailed in the back. The assistant gave her a pair of gold heels to complete her outfit. It went beautifully with her dress. The lavender gown trailed gracefully behind her, capturing everyone's attention.

Hinata praised her appearance. Sakura looked in the mirror and liked how the dress fit her. She looked good in them. Another gown was tried. She left the dressing room with the second dress. She nervously bit her lip as she looked at her friend.

"Is this outfit too sexy for me?" She played with her dress slit, showing a tempting glimpse of her thigh.

"You look gorgeous, girl!" Hinata winked at her.

"I like this dress."

The burgundy gown was gorgeous and well-fitting. The outfit featured a plunging V-neck, a removable sheer maxi skirt with a high-low hem, and a halterneck with a back clasp. Her cleavage was undeniably exposed. Dresses and gowns had never piqued her interest, despite the fact that they were out of her usual style, but it felt right. It was most likely her favorite color. Aside from the sexiness, Sakura was obsessed with the fabric and twirled to show it off.

"Ah, Sakura-chan, you look absolutely stunning in red."

"Hinata, thanks for saving me from the hassle of gown shopping," she said with a smile.

"I'll make sure you have an amazing time at my wedding!"

Sakura exited the dressing room after changing back into her clothes. She noticed two perfectly tailored men's suits hanging next to hers as she walked past the changing area. A crisp white three-piece suit and a sleek black tuxedo, both crafted from fine materials.

Hinata noticed Sakura's fascination with the suits.

"These suits are for Neji-niisan. We had chosen these last month to match Naruto's groom attire. Sadly, Nii-san had to go on a mission before he could have a second chance with them. He looked fantastic in them!"

Hinata thought back to the time when her cousin tried on the suits one after the other until they found the right one. His reluctance only added to her amusement. She brought him with her to the fitting where her Hokage husband was trying on his groom's suits since he was conveniently in town.

In the dressing room, he was surrounded by a multitude of suits, waiting for his arrival for a fitting. Each new creation outshined the previous one in terms of elegance and refinement! It didn't matter what style or color it was, as long as his heiress was happy.

Even though he wasn't the groom, the staff treated him like one after he called off his wedding engagement, left him newly single, and became the talk of the town.

They couldn't help but be in awe of his impeccable physique, eagerly awaiting his breathtaking presence every time he stepped out of the changing room. Hyuuga Neji, all suited up, was rarely seen. Their hands grazed his body, carefully mapping out the curves of his torso and occasionally straying towards his inner thigh as they meticulously took his measurements. It was too close for his comfort.

Sakura couldn't help but notice how the boutique staff blushed whenever they mentioned it. She was certain that the girls were either mesmerized by his commanding presence or perhaps his body. Her forehead furrowed with a hint of jealousy.

As they exited the bridal boutique, Sakura's eyes drooped with exhaustion. After an incredibly tiring journey from Suna, only to be dragged into trying on bridesmaid dresses. Completely drained, all she wanted was to collapse and rest.

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.

"Let's make sure you're well-rested before our exciting night together."

End Note: Neji is about to make his big entrance. I'm still planning out the story. I want it to be very detailed so that the relationship seems more real and logical. A test of getting back to writing after a long break. No bashing, might stop writing again.

There will be 12 chapters in total.

Favorite, follow & review! Will speed me up.