Disclaimer: I do not own Naruto!
Summary: What if, their relationship falters over a misunderstanding? Is there still a chance for love? Follow Neji and Sakura through a series of romantic encounters, drawing them closer and resolving their misunderstandings. NejixSaku. Slow burn.
Naruto was preparing to marry his one true love, Hinata. Neji, the best man, is tasked with teaching Sakura, the maid of honor, how to waltz. When fate failed to intervene, Hinata decided to meddle in their lives a little. After all, desperate times call for desperate measures.
Author's Note: Obviously canon divergence. Rated M for smut and lemons.
Timeline: Three years after the Fourth Shinobi World War. Sakura is 20 years old, while Neji is 21. Neji lived.
Chapter 1 Prologue
Sakura had spent two years enduring the unrelenting heat and bright sunlight of Sunagakure. During Naruto's tenure as Hokage, the relationship between Sunagakure and Konohagakure strengthened.
Two years ago, Sakura, a renowned Konoha medic, was invited by Sunagakure's medical division for a three-year medical ninjutsu research and exchange program. This crucial opportunity to develop life-saving techniques was too good to pass up. Accepting this mission could be her ticket out of becoming a baby-making machine for the Uchiha clan. She had declined Sasuke's marriage proposal. Despite her affection for him, she couldn't bear the thought of being trapped in that role.
Three months had passed since Sakura received the Hokage's wedding invitation. She had missed Naruto's Hokage inauguration last year, determined not to miss his big day this time. Moreover, Hinata had chosen her as maid of honor, which was an honor. They had been through so much during the war, and their bond had strengthened after Sakura saved her cousin, Neji, from the brink of death.
Sakura momentarily paused her revolutionary medical project in Suna to attend their wedding, setting off towards her home base. She stepped off the train, her heart fluttering with excitement as she breathed in the familiar air of Konoha after two long years away. The towering faces of the seven Hokage greeted her, savoring the moment of homecoming.
As she wandered through the village, she strolled by the academy. She paused, watching as her dearest friend, Ino, who was a Jonin now, guided a group of eager Genin through the intricacies of chakra control. Memories of her own days as a genin came rushing back, filling her heart with a mix of longing and pride, carrying forward the Will of Fire.
Ino was the first she called before returning to Konoha. The blonde shared the latest gossip, including surprising news about Sasuke and the fiery-haired beauty's marriage engagement. Sakura felt a twinge of nostalgia but was genuinely happy for her former crush. She had moved on too, focusing on her own growth and achievements during her time away.
Finally getting to catch up with each other felt amazing! As they chatted, catching up on lost time, the kunoichi marveled at how easily they fell back into their old rhythm. Despite the distance, their friendship had remained as strong as ever. Before long, they were making plans to meet up.
"Mint Bar at 8?" Ino suggested. "The girls are dying to see you too!"
Sakura agreed eagerly, already looking forward to reuniting with her kunoichi friends.
Sakura stepped into the Hokage office, a smile spreading across her face as she saw her old friend. Naruto, wearing his Hokage hat slightly askew, with his spiky blonde hair now neatly shaved. Two years in Suna had flown by, but the moment felt like no time had passed at all.
"Honey, I'm home!" she sang out, grinning from ear to ear.
Naruto's face lit up. He leaped from his chair, bounding over and wrapping her in a bear hug that lifted her off her feet. She was glad to see that his lively spirit was still intact, his enthusiasm as infectious as ever. He towered over her, easily lifting her up. The weight of leadership suited him well.
"SAKURA-CHAN!" he bellowed. "I missed you more than Ichiraku during a noodle shortage!"
"Naruto... can't... breathe..."
Hinata, standing nearby, giggled softly at her future husband's antics. "Welcome back, Sakura-chan," she said, her cheeks tinting pink. "We're so glad you made it for the wedding."
"Omedetō, Hinata. You're glowing! I can't wait to see you walk down that aisle!"
"Get ready, because that bouquet is yours to catch!"
"Oh, about that," Sakura said, pried herself free from her brother's death grip. She reached into her bag and produced an envelope with a flourish. "I come bearing gifts! A honeymoon getaway package for you lovebirds. Seven days of sun, sand, and all that... alone time!" She waggled her eyebrows suggestively.
The pinkette had visited the island previously, enticed by the incredible spring water and its therapeutic benefits.
Naruto's face morphed into understanding. "Ooh, alone time!" he exclaimed, oblivious to his future wife's embarrassment. "Hinata-chan, maybe we can practice that jutsu I've been working on-"
"Naruto-kun!" Hinata squealed, looking ready to faint.
The Hyuuga heiress's face turned a shade of red like a tomato. She opened the envelope to find a note that read, 'Cheers to more adventures together as Mr. and Mrs.' It warmed her heart.
With the wedding just a month away, the three friends fell into easy conversation. After the catch-up session, the Hokage reluctantly returned to his duties, eyeing the tower of paperwork.
Just then, the door swung open. Uchiha Sasuke strode in, his dark cloak billowing behind him, exuding an air of enigma and authority. Sakura looked at her ex, his once unruly dark locks now tamed into a loose ponytail. His face was impassive with a hint of surprise at seeing her, looking as handsome as ever. But she wouldn't crush on his looks anymore.
"Mission complete," he stated flatly. He looked travel-worn but composed. His unexpected appearance brought a sudden hush to the room. Onyx eyes locking with emerald, a flicker of... something passing between them. The air grew thick with unspoken words and their complicated shared history.
It had been a year since they had broken up. After the war, Sasuke had made amends and sought forgiveness for his past wrongdoings. Despite his attempts to repent for his misdeeds, there was one bond he couldn't mend.
He had always imagined Sakura as his matriarch, upholding his clan's legacy with him, with her understanding of his clan's history. Regardless of how much he desired reconciliation, the gap between them appeared insurmountable. But somewhere along the way, all he could do was watch as she walked out of his life.
The weight of the Uchiha legacy bore down on him, compelling him to choose a path forward. Karin had been his steadfast companion, offering unwavering support when he needed. He resolved to rebuild his clan with the redhead, seeing it as the most pragmatic way. Just as he began to settle into this new reality, Sakura's unexpected return from Suna threw his carefully constructed world into disarray.
"Sasuke," she managed, her voice barely above a whisper.
"Sakura," he replied, his voice low and measured. "I didn't expect to see you. How's Suna treating you?"
"Hot and sandy," she answered politely, keeping her tone neutral.
There was a moment of silence between them before Sasuke spoke up again, this time more assertively. "Can we talk?"
She met his gaze steadily, her voice calm and assured. "I'd love to catch up, but I have plans with my girls tonight. Maybe another time."
"Of course," he nodded, his face a mask of composure betraying a hint of disappointment. Their relationship had been complexed from the start. They'd been through so much together - as teammates, as friends, and eventually as lovers. Sakura had always been there, supporting him even when he didn't deserve it. But now, it was over. She had made her choice, and he couldn't fault her for it.
Naruto, sensing the awkwardness, quickly interjected. "Right, Sasuke, just leave your report. I'll... look it over later."
Sasuke placed a scroll on the desk. With a final glance at Sakura, he left, the door closing softly behind him.
When the news of their breakup reached him, Naruto couldn't help but feel a twinge of sadness, but honestly? He wasn't all that surprised. He'd always been there for the cherry blossom. If this was what she needed to be happy, then he was all for it. The same went for Sasuke.
Sakura had been through hell and back, waiting for Sasuke, dealing with his betrayal, and then trying to make things work when he finally returned. And Sasuke? Well, the guy had his own demons to fight. The Uchiha massacre had messed him up pretty badly. It had been one hell of a journey for Team 7. Nah, he would sit this one out, Naruto decided. They were adults now. All he could do was hope that somehow, someway, they'd both find the little peace they deserved.
Sakura let out a sigh of relief, having successfully avoided any encounters with Sasuke for over a year now. Hinata and Naruto exchanged glances, noticing her expression.
"Hey, you okay?" Naruto asked, concern evident in his voice.
"Yeah, I'm fine, guys. Just exhausted from the long trip back from Suna," she replied, waving off their worry with a smile.
Hinata, ever perceptive, changed the subject. "So, Sakura, where are you planning to stay?" The war took away the kunoichi's home and everything she owned. Soon after peace was restored, her parents went on a fancy trip around the world.
"Oh, I was thinking of crashing at Ino's place, but..."
"But you don't want to be the third wheel," Hinata finished with a knowing smile. "Why don't you stay with us at my place?" Hinata offered casually.
Sakura hesitated. "Are you sure it wouldn't be an inconvenience?"
"Come on, stay with us! They have plenty of space at the Hyuuga compound, and it will be so much fun having you around, Sakura-chan!" Naruto chimed in.
"Absolutely! It's no trouble at all."
"How can I say no?" she conceded.
"Then it's settled! You're staying with us," Hinata clapped her hands together. "Besides, I've been meaning to tell you – we've found you a partner for the wedding."
"Oh?" Sakura raised an eyebrow, intrigued.
"Yep, it's Neji-niisan! He's the best man, and well… You're maid of honor, so…"
Neji as Naruto's best man didn't surprise Sakura. He was a key figure in the newlyweds' relationship, having proven himself worthy of their trust. His resuscitation brought a sense of hope and relief to them, and to Sakura as well.
"Well," she said with a small smile, "I guess I can't argue with that logic. Speaking of which, I'm freaking out about this whole maid of honor thing. What if I mess up the speech? Or trip during the ceremony?"
"You'll be perfect, Sakura. But there is one thing... The wedding party dance," Hinata said with a knowing smile. "It's a Hyuuga tradition, but I didn't want you to stress. So, I've asked Neji-niisan to teach you how to waltz."
"Oh, thank goodness! I'm not exactly known for my grace on the dance floor," the pink-haired kunoichi thought that explained why the Hyuugas were so polite and refined. It seemed they took etiquette seriously. "But wait, you mean- Neji?"
Hinata giggled. "Yes. He's quite the dancer in our clan, you know. Very... well-rounded than people think…" She trailed off with a mischievous glint in her eye.
"But, shouldn't he be practicing with his fiancée? You know, that Otsutsuki heiress he got engaged to two summers ago?"
"Oh, about that..." Hinata's voice lowered conspiratorially. "The engagement, it's off. They called it quits half year ago. But hey, their loss is your gain. Now you get a top-notch dance instructor! Well, that's partly why I invited you to stay over. It'll be easier for you to catch up with him for lessons too…"
Sakura bolted upright from the couch in the Hokage office, eyes wide. "Hinata, is that why you're playing matchmaker?" But surprisingly, she didn't mind.
"Is it that obvious?" She chuckled.
Hinata believed they were meant for each other, though neither seemed to realize it. Their contrasting personalities – the pinkette's vibrant energy and her cousin's calm strength - seemed to complement each other beautifully. She recalled the times she'd seen them together - the way her cousin's stoic demeanor softened around the pinkette, how her emerald eyes lit up when discussing medical jutsu with him. Their connection seemed so natural, yet somehow, it had begun to fade. Perhaps a misunderstanding left unresolved? It wasn't like her to meddle, but seeing two people she cared for miss out on happiness felt wrong. If fate wouldn't bring them together, perhaps a little nudge from her would.
"You've been not-so-subtly bringing up your cousin every chance you get today."
Hinata smiled sheepishly. "I just thought... well, you two would make a good match since last time. Neji-niisan's been so focused on his work. Maybe you could bring that spark back to his eyes. You two were such good friends before, and I always sensed there might be something more there. I just couldn't understand why you drifted apart."
"I don't know either," she admitted, a hint of sadness in her voice. "But Hinata, are you sure this is a good idea? I mean, with everything that's happened..."
In fact, a small flutter of excitement stirred in her chest at the prospect. Sakura's mind wandered to thoughts of the charming Hyuuga, a small smile played on her lips as she thought about him.
"Sometimes, the best way to heal is to open your heart to new possibilities. And who knows? Maybe this is a chance for you two to reconnect, whether as friends or something more."
Sakura smiled, feeling a mix of excitement and anticipation, still processing the information. "You're right. Thanks for looking out for me, even if your matchmaking skills could use a little work," she teased, nudging her friend playfully. "Now, about that dance... if the Neji is going to be my dance teacher, I guess I have no excuse to mess up at the wedding, huh?"
"Exactly," Hinata grinned. "Now, will you come with me?"
"Sure, where are we going?!" Sakura asked while being dragged away from the Hokage office.
Naruto were left alone in his office after ladies left, he let out a tired sigh. Being the Hokage was no joke. His office was buzzing with noise and chaos, and he had a never-ending list of tasks - meetings, paperwork, missions galore.
Upon hearing Hinata's plan to set up his two close friends, the idea intrigued him. He recalled the pinkette's rejection of Sasuke's advances, it surprised him but felt somehow right. She had grown, and perhaps her heart had too.
And Neji? Well, the guy had grown on him. The Hyuuga prodigy had saved his life during the war, displaying a level of selflessness that still humbled him. As he mulled it over, he realized that Neji's steady presence and wisdom might be exactly what Sakura needed. Naruto was surprised at his own conclusion.
They entered town's most luxurious bridal boutique. Serving powerful clans and nobles. The Hokage's wedding was set to be lavish, befitting his status and the esteemed family he was marrying into.
The chic store was lit by lavish chandeliers and a soft melody. A sleek white velvet couch and an impressive table were at the center of the room, adorned with a beautiful vase of white and lavender blooms. They approached the checkout counter to try on Sakura's custom gown.
A senior stylist and her two assistants welcomed them in an exclusive dressing room reserved solely for the Hyuugas. Three exquisite wedding gowns were specially designed and displayed in the main hall. The soft-gold wedding gown in the center sparkled with thousands of tiny rhinestones. It had a semi-transparent bodice and a row of color-matched buttons down the back. Sakura was amazed by them.
The bridal consultant presented Hinata and Sakura with bridesmaids' dresses in lovely lavender. Hinata surprised Sakura with a custom-made reception dress in deep burgundy, with her name on the hanger. Excited, they encouraged Sakura to try on both gorgeous dresses.
Sakura slipped into the first lavender dress as she strutted out of the fitting room. She looked absolutely radiant, the halterneck design accentuated her shoulder gracefully. The assistant added a pair of gold heels that perfectly complemented her outfit.
"Sakura-chan, you look stunning! The dress enhances your natural beauty!"
"Really? I'm glad you think so. It does feel nice and comfortable."
"Haruno-sensei, the dress looks amazing on you!"
Sakura went back to the dressing room and returned in a burgundy dress, nervously biting her lip.
"Um, guys, what do you think of this one?" She gestured to the slit in the dress, which exposed a large portion of her thigh.
Hinata noticed Sakura's unease and promptly reassured her, "You look fantastic, girl! Don't worry about showing a little skin!"
The pinkette loved how the body-con dress accentuated her curves. The neckline dipped provocatively, revealing a subtle hint of her cleavage. The color, a rich shade of crimson, seemed to be her go-to choice. Sakura couldn't help feeling both glamorous and a little exposed at the same time.
"I agree with Hinata-sama. This dress does indeed carry a hint of allure. It's perfectly fine to venture beyond your comfort zone and wear something with confidence. I must say, Haruno-sensei, this dress is fierce on you!"
"Yes, and you look absolutely beautiful in red, Sakura-chan. It brings out the color of your hair!"
"It complements your complexion perfectly, Haruno-sensei."
As Sakura hesitated, Hinata and the bridal store assistant chimed in with supportive comments. Sakura looked back at herself in the mirror and twirled around in the dress, feeling more confident. She smiled at the reflection looking back at her, ready to turn heads wherever she went.
Sakura expresses her gratitude to both of them for their help and kind words. She particularly thanks Hinata for rescuing her from the hassle of gown shopping.
Sakura stepped out of the dressing room, fresh in her own clothes, and noticed the two sharp men's suits hanging beside her, both perfectly tailored.
Hinata caught Sakura gazing at the suits and casually mentioned, "Oh, those are for Neji-niisan. We picked these last month to match Naruto-kun's groom's suits. He looked great in them!"
Sakura couldn't shake off the image of how dashing Neji would look in those outfits. The thought of him in the white suit, elegant and sophisticated, or in the black tuxedo, seductive and alluring, made her heart flutter.
Hinata remembered when her cousin tried on suit after suit until they found the right one. She took him along to the fitting where her Hokage husband was trying on his groom's suits since he was conveniently in town. In the dressing room, there were so many suits waiting for him to try on. Every design was more refined than the last!
Even though he wasn't the one tying the knot, the staff swarmed around him like bees to a honey pot. After breaking off his engagement and rejoining the bachelor club, he was the hot topic around town.
Seeing Hyuuga Neji in a suit was a rare treat.
His well-toned body always excited them whenever he tried on new suits. They patiently awaited his exit from the changing room, glowing with charisma. As they took his measurements, their hands would wander over his body, tracing every muscle contour and sometimes venturing closely towards uncharted territory. It was more up-close and personal than his comfort zone typically allowed!
Sakura couldn't help but notice the boutique girls getting all flustered every time they mentioned him. She was pretty sure they were either hypnotized by his authoritative aura, or maybe just his abs. A twinge of jealousy crept up on her.
As they left the bridal shop, Sakura felt wiped out. The trip from Suna had been long and tiring, and then she'd been roped into trying on a bunch of bridesmaid dresses. She was completely drained. All she wanted was to collapse and rest.
"Let's make sure you're recharged before our girls night out."
End Note: Neji is about to make his appearance, testing the waters of writing after a long break. No bashing, or he might stop writing again!
There will be about 15 chapters in total.
Favorite, follow & review! Will speed me up.