(Author's note: The point of view (POV) always shifted between the author's POV and Sakura's POV only, so don't get confused since I wanted to make the story flow naturally).

When Sasuke and I rode the high-speed train home, the world outside rushed by in a blur. We were surrounded by a sea of people, yet our closeness transcended the confines of the crowded train. Sasuke's hand found its way around my waist, pulling me in until there was no space left between us. It wasn't the crush of commuters that caused this proximity, but a burning passion that had remained hidden for far too long.

When I arrived home, I found my father sitting at the kitchen table, looking disheveled and melancholic, a bottle of whisky in his grasp. The television droned on in the background, and I had only just walked in, still wearing my coat.

My father gestured to the television screen, his voice heavy with sadness. "Take a look at this."

He picked up the remote control and flicked through the channels until they landed on the Home Shopping Channel. There, to my astonishment, was my mother assisting the flamboyant Julian, the very man whose presence had caused turmoil in our family. Julian spoke with a velvety voice, showcasing a gaudy pair of earrings.

Julian presented confidently, "Just over a centimeter in size, these topaz and diamante earrings with genuine lapis lazuli in a mock gold finish are an exact replica of those worn at Wimbledon in 1993 by the Duchess of Kent."

My mother chimed in, "And though they're ornate, they're perfect for day wear..."

Julian nodded with meaning and said, "Absolutely, Mebuki-san."

I was left in shock, my heart sinking at the realization that my mother had seemingly moved on with Julian.

I stammered, "Wait a minute - has Mama actually moved out?"

My father nodded, his eyes welling up with tears. "Yes, and it appears she's now with that tangerine-tinted buffoon. They're an item, and half of our friends have hosted them for dinner."

I felt a pang of guilt. I hadn't shared my suspicions about my mother's involvement with Julian with my father.

My father sighed, "Why do people, when they abandon their partners, pretend there's no one else involved? Do they truly believe it's less hurtful to imagine they suddenly couldn't stand the sight of you anymore?"

I tried to offer some solace, "Maybe she's worried you might... well, you know, attack him or something."

My father nodded, considering the possibility. "Yes, perhaps. I could slaughter them both with my Black and Decker bandsaw in a suburban bloodbath. She's even taking Jaundiced Julian, the jewelry thief, to Kazuki Yuri's and Miyoko's party. It's not the Mebuki-chan I knew. That's cruel."

I attempted a silver lining, "On the bright side, it could be an opportunity. If you spend the entire party flirting with other women, it might drive Mom wild with jealousy."

My father questioned, "Do you think she'll see sense and dump the dirtbag?"

Just then, the phone rang twice and went to the answering machine. I urged my father not to answer it.

My mother's voice echoed from the answering machine, "Hello, Darling, it's me-eee! Just making sure you're coping! Don't forget - there's a lot of chicken fricassee in the freezer."

I hissed at my father, "DON'T PICK IT UP! ...Do you want her back?"

My father nodded in uncertainty.

I continued with a mischievous smile, "Rule No 1! NEVER call, and NEVER return calls. Aloof... unavailable. You are the Ice Queen."

My father wasn't entirely convinced, especially about the 'Queen' part.

I clarified, "Well, King. That's how I got my man."

My father's face lit up with curiosity. "You've got a boyfriend? A real one?"

I beamed proudly and nodded, "I have, Papa. I have. And he's perfect."

...

As the day turned into night, a wave of unease and loneliness washed over me. Thoughts of the possibility that my parents might get divorced someday had taken root in my mind, gnawing at my peace of mind. Seeking solace, I decided to call Ino, my best friend, hoping to find comfort in her voice. To my dismay, she didn't pick up, and all I got was her voicemail.

I began the message, trying my best to sound composed, "Ino, it's Sakura. I really need to talk to you. Something's happened, and I could use a friend right now. Call me back when you can."

The unanswered call left me hanging in uncertainty, but I couldn't dwell on it. I needed someone to confide in, and if Ino wasn't available, I had one more lifeline - Sasuke.

Summoning all the courage I had, I dialed Sasuke's number. He answered quickly, his voice as calm and collected as ever. "Hey, Sakura. What's up?"

However, as soon as I heard his voice, my composure crumbled. Tears welled up in my eyes, and I couldn't hold them back any longer. Choked sobs escaped me as I managed to blurt out, "Sasuke, it's my mother. She left home with Julian."

There was a brief pause on the other end of the line, and then Sasuke's voice softened, filled with concern. "Sakura, slow down. Take a deep breath. Tell me what happened."

I sniffled, trying to regain my composure. "I just got home, and I found my dad alone, and the TV was on. And then I saw... I saw my mom on the Home Shopping Channel with Julian, and they were... like they were together."

Sasuke's tone remained steady, reassuring. "I'm sorry you're going through this. Take your time and tell me everything."

So, I did. I poured out my heart to him, sharing the shock of seeing my mother on TV with Julian, the hurt and confusion it caused, and the guilt I felt for not telling my father about my suspicions earlier. Sasuke listened patiently, his presence providing a sense of comfort in the midst of my emotional storm.

After sharing the tumultuous mix of emotions that had consumed me, I finally voiced the question that had been haunting me since I stepped into that empty house. "Sasuke, what should I do? How do I help my dad? And... and how do I deal with this mess?"

Sasuke replied with a calm determination that was uniquely his. "First, be there for your father. He needs you right now. As for the mess, we'll figure it out together. You're not alone in this."

His words were like a lifeline, grounding me in the midst of chaos. In that moment, I knew that Sasuke was more than just a boyfriend. He was my partner in navigating the storms of life, and together, we would weather them, no matter how tumultuous they became.

...

The weekend had arrived, and as promised, Sasuke had prepared a romantic picnic for us in a picturesque meadow. The sun bathed everything in a warm, golden glow, creating the perfect atmosphere for our outing. As I laid out the checkered blanket, Sasuke unveiled a basket filled with meticulously crafted heart-shaped sandwiches, his expression barely changing despite the heartfelt effort he'd put in.

I couldn't help but grin, my heart fluttering with anticipation. "You remembered the heart-shaped sandwiches."

Sasuke managed a faint, nonchalant smirk as he handed me a bunny ear headband, the final piece of my master plan to make him my official boyfriend. "I suppose some promises are hard to forget."

I slipped on the bunny ears, and we shared a lighthearted moment of laughter, with Sasuke's indifference struggling to hide his blush. It was a sight to behold, seeing Sasuke, usually so serious, embracing the silliness of the moment.

Our picnic was filled with laughter, heartfelt conversations, and a sense of intimacy that felt like a warm embrace. Despite the troubles plaguing my family, Sasuke's presence offered solace and respite.

...

As the day unfolded, Sasuke dropped a surprising invitation on me. "Sakura, my family is hosting a horce race next weekend. I'd like you to come with me."

I blinked in disbelief, uncertain of how I'd fit into the world of equestrian competitions, and even more uncertain about what to wear. "Horce race? I don't have anything to wear for that kind of event."

Sasuke's reassuring smile barely wavered as he replied, "You don't need anything fancy, Sakura. Just be yourself and try not to make it too embarrassing."

The following weekend, we arrived at Sasuke's family estate, where an elegant equestrian competition was in full swing. The atmosphere felt like something straight out of a period drama, complete with beautifully dressed spectators and majestic horses.

In my casual attire, I couldn't have felt more out of place, but Sasuke's indifference offered a comforting anchor. His family, including his older brother Itachi, his sister-in-law Izumi, his father Fugaku, and his mother Mikoto, greeted me warmly, their composed demeanor in stark contrast to my nervous energy.

Itachi, with his enigmatic and calm aura, offered a polite smile. "Sasuke, you didn't mention you were bringing a guest."

Sasuke replied casually, "It was a last-minute decision."

Izumi, with her warm and welcoming nature, chimed in, "Sakura, it's lovely to meet you. Sasuke's never brought a friend to this kind of event before."

Mikoto exuded grace and elegance. "You look lovely, Sakura-chan."

Fugaku maintained an air of authority. "Pleasant to meet you."

I couldn't help but feel like a fish out of water in the midst of this refined family. Their poise and sophistication were undeniable, while I, in my casual attire, felt like a fish out of water.

"N-nice to meet you all," I stammered nervously, bowing to each of them. My discomfort was palpable as I couldn't shake the feeling that I was the clown in Sasuke's family event, a peasant among aristocrats.

As the competition began, I attempted to blend in, but my lack of familiarity with equestrian events quickly became evident. I gasped in awe at the graceful riders and their majestic horses.

Sasuke leaned in, whispering with a hint of amusement, "Enjoying the show, Sakura?"

I nodded, feeling like a fish out of water. But as the competition unfolded, a series of unexpected mishaps unfolded. I tripped over my own feet, sending my drink flying, and inadvertently startled a nearby horse, causing it to neigh loudly.

Sasuke's family watched in surprise, their composed masks momentarily shattered. Mikoto couldn't help but let a smile slip through, and Fugaku raised an amused eyebrow.

I turned to Sasuke, mortified, and whispered, "I'm so sorry, Sasuke-kun. I didn't mean to create a spectacle."

Sasuke's indifference crumbled, replaced by a gentle chuckle as he replied, "Sakura, you have an uncanny talent for making my family gatherings far from dull."

Despite the embarrassing moments, Sasuke's family welcomed me with open arms, finding humor in the unexpected turn of events. As the day came to a close, I couldn't help but feel grateful for Sasuke and his ability to make even the most awkward moments feel like cherished memories.

...

As the evening sun cast a warm, golden glow over the Uchiha estate, Sasuke and Sakura found themselves on a secluded balcony overlooking the picturesque landscape. The scene resembled something out of a Western period drama, with rolling hills, vibrant wildflowers, and the estate's grandeur in the background.

Sakura couldn't help but feel transported to a different era as she gazed at the breathtaking scenery. She turned to Sasuke, a playful sparkle in her eye.

"You know, Mr. Darcy," Sakura said with a mischievous grin, "this view is positively Austenesque. I half-expect Elizabeth Bennet to stroll by."

Sasuke raised an eyebrow, utterly confused by the reference. "Mr. Darcy?"

Before Sakura could explain her reference, Izumi's voice rang out from behind them, interrupting their private moment. "Sasuke, Sakura, we're about to start the family photo session. Come join us, won't you?"

Sakura hesitated, feeling like an intruder in this elite family gathering. "Izumi-san, I'm not really part of the Uchiha family. I shouldn't—"

But before she could finish her sentence, Sasuke had already grabbed her hand and was leading her toward the gathering. Sakura's heart raced as they approached the scene.

To her shock, she found Madara Uchiha, alias Mr. Mumbleton, standing there, sipping a fancy glass of wine with his typical deadpan expression. He glanced at Sakura and greeted her in his usual monotone voice, "Shizumi."

Itachi, standing nearby, couldn't help but hide a small chuckle behind his hand.

Sakura, utterly flustered, unintentionally retaliated, "Mr. Mumbleton."

Madara's eye twitched ever so slightly at the cheeky teenager who dared to insult him. He was about to retort when Sasuke swiftly pulled Sakura closer, wrapping his arm around her waist. He guided the bewildered girl to stand beside him in front of the camera.

The cameraman instructed the Uchiha family to smile for the photo. Sakura eagerly complied with a wide, beaming expression. However, she soon noticed she was the only one smiling. The Uchiha family, except for the women, maintained expressions of utmost elegance and seriousness.

Driven by curiosity, Sakura leaned in to sneak a peek at the photo on the camera screen. Embarrassment flooded her as she observed herself standing amidst the sea of poised and solemn Uchihas, her own grin contrasting with their composed demeanor.

The cameraman showed the result to Itachi, who glanced at it with mild interest. Sakura discreetly cringed, hoping to blend into the background.

Itachi's lips quirked into the tiniest of smiles, hardly noticeable to anyone but Sakura. He then nodded in approval. "Excellent. Let's proceed."

Sakura couldn't help but feel like an outsider in this world of elegance and composure, but Sasuke's unwavering support and the subtle approval his family made her realize that, in her own unique way, she was finding her place within the enigmatic Uchiha family.

...

Sasori, the new mentor for the photography club, had become a persistent presence in Sakura's school life, casting a shadow over her relationship with Sasuke. He always seemed to lurk in the background, camera in hand, like a mysterious figure in a film noir.

One afternoon, after a photography club practice, Sasori approached Sakura with a sly, enigmatic smile. "Sakura, there's a college party coming up, and it'd be cool if you could join me. It should be a good time."

Sakura paused, taken aback by Sasori's unexpected invitation. She replied cautiously, "I appreciate the offer, Sasori, but I'll need to check my schedule and discuss it with Sasuke."

Leaning in closer, Sasori spoke with an air of secrecy, his voice a conspiratorial whisper. "No, I have one condition. You must promise not to mention this invitation to Sasuke. Let's keep it our little secret."

Sakura's curiosity was piqued, her intrigue evident as she asked, "Why the secrecy, Sasori?"

Sasori's smile deepened, concealing his true intentions. "Let's just say it's a surprise, and I want it to remain special, exclusively for you."

Though reluctant, Sakura eventually agreed, her unease lingering. "Alright, Sasori, I promise not to tell Sasuke. But please, assure me it's nothing... inappropriate."

Sasori nodded, his eyes hiding more than they revealed. "I give you my word, Sakura. It's all in good fun."

As Sakura walked away from their encounter, a knot of unease tightened in her stomach. She couldn't shake the feeling that she had willingly entered into a web of secrecy and intrigue, leaving her with conflicting emotions and growing anxiety.

Days turned into weeks, and Sakura felt increasingly torn between her loyalty to Sasuke and her promise to Sasori. She knew she needed to discuss the college party invitation with Sasuke, but an invisible force seemed to hold her back, sowing seeds of guilt and uncertainty.

One evening, as Sakura and Sasuke sat together, her hesitation was palpable. She searched for the right moment to broach the subject, but the words remained trapped, as if bound by an unspoken commitment.

Sasuke, ever perceptive, noticed her unease and gently inquired, "Sakura, is something troubling you?"

Her heart raced as the internal conflict raged on, loyalty and promises clashing within her. She finally replied, her voice tinged with anxiety, "It's nothing. Just... some school-related matters."

Sasuke's expression softened, and he reached for her hand, his eyes conveying understanding and reassurance. "You know you can confide in me about anything."

The turmoil within Sakura deepened, loyalty warring with promises kept. The secret she held threatened not only her relationship but also her sense of trust and honesty, and it left her standing at a crossroads, uncertain of which path to choose.

- To Be Continued -