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'Sakura Haruno, and I volunteer as tribute.'
Sakura. Volunteer. Tribute. Three words that should never be used in the same sentence together.
Sakura fucking Haruno volunteered as tribute. What. The. Actual. Fuck?
The world stopped turning. The color drained from his face. The future he envisioned with her— stolen. The plans they'd woven, reduced to ashes.
And most of all, the Gods above mocked him with a mirthless laugh.
Sasuke stood on the stage, his mind a whirlwind of rage, confusion, and despair. Sakura. Sakura. Sakura. District 12 female tribute, Sakura Haruno.
Sakura, his lover— his wife, was officially his opponent in the Games.
The reality of it hit him like a freight train. Gods, he was supposed to protect her, care for her, keep her safe from harm. Not this, never this.
But now, she was thrust into the deadly arena with him, about to fight to the death with other tributes—and, eventually, against him. And the most gut wrenching fact about this situation is that there could only be one winner, and there are two of them. The thought gnawed at his insides, twisting his stomach into knots. How could they survive this together? It was impossible.
He couldn't go against her. He wouldn't. He won't. Sakura was his lover, his wife, his heart. How could he go against his heart? How could he ever harm his own heart?
Because if it came down to it, if his heart was killed, he might as well be dead too.
The crowd's uproar was nothing but background noise to him now. His entire being was focused on the catastrophe that had just unfolded. His fists were clenched so tightly that his knuckles turned white, his nails digging into his palms drawing blood. He wanted to scream, to let out the torrent of emotions that threatened to consume him, but he kept it all bottled up inside, a seething storm behind his stoic facade.
He couldn't even look at Sakura anymore. Every glance at her was a reminder of the impossible situation they were in. She had taken away his choice, had thrown herself into the lion's den without considering the consequences. It was reckless, thoughtless, and it shattered him. How could she do this to him? To them?
The future was a dark, uncertain void. How could he protect her now? How could he keep her safe when they were pitted against each other? The thought of having to fight her, to kill her, was unbearable. She was his everything. If he had to kill her to win, then winning meant nothing.
He forced himself to breathe, to focus, to try and find a way through this nightmare. But the questions kept pounding in his head. What would he do? How would they survive this? How could he face the reality that they were now enemies in a game designed to destroy them both? The answers eluded him, and he felt the crushing weight of despair settle over him.
Sasuke stood there, on the brink of losing everything he held dear, knowing that the Games had already begun to tear them apart, even before the first blood was spilled.
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After the reaping ceremony, Sasuke and Sakura were quickly separated, each ushered away by the Peacekeepers to different rooms. He didn't get the chance to talk to her, to even look at her one last time. The Peacekeepers led him to a small, dimly lit room and informed him that he had ten minutes. For what, he didn't know. But as soon as he entered the room, he saw his brother Itachi and Naruto waiting for him. Ah, a last goodbye from families and friends.
Sasuke saw that their faces wore a mix of pity, sadness, and anger. Naruto's expression was predominantly anger, while Itachi's was a deep, somber sadness. Their pathetic display of emotions around him, irritated him to no end. He wanted to scream at them, wanted to punch them both for the pity in their eyes. He didn't want their pity because no matter what expressions they wore or words they will say, nothing would change the grim reality he was facing.
So despite his brother and Naruto talking endlessly, he didn't hear a thing. No, nothing at all. His mind was already blank, his heart full of betrayal, hurt, and rage. But mostly rage.
Itachi's voice was a low murmur, trying to offer wisdom or comfort, Sasuke couldn't tell. Naruto's voice was louder, more insistent, full of desperation and fury. Yet, Sasuke showed nothing but his blank, stoic, indifferent face. He stood there stiff as a wall, unmoved by their words.
Eventually, Itachi stepped forward and hugged him tightly, probably saying goodbye, urging him to survive no matter what. Sasuke didn't register the exact words. It didn't matter. The hug, a rare display of emotion from his usually composed brother, felt like a leaden weight around his shoulders.
Naruto, on the other hand, punched him in the chest while shouting something like, Survive this with Sakura-chan, bastard!. The absurdity of the statement made Sasuke's blood boil. Everyone knew only one person could leave the arena alive. The idea of surviving with Sakura was a cruel joke.
Before Sasuke could punch Naruto in the face for his naivety, Naruto rushed out the door, likely heading to see Sakura next. Sasuke was left standing there, feeling more alone and enraged than ever. The betrayal of Sakura's actions weighed heavily on him, and the despair of their situation loomed like a dark cloud over his heart.
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After being ushered by the Peacekeepers to another room, Sakura never saw Sasuke again. She saw him entering another room and she didn't know if he saw her because he didn't even spared her a glance. He was probably too angry to even look for her or acknowledge her, and Sakura understood. She could understand if Sasuke didn't want to be with her anymore, call off their engagement, or even leave her to die in the arena. She wouldn't blame him if he wanted to kill her himself for the idiotic, reckless decision she made.
But despite everything, Sakura will stand by her decision. And she knows— she knows that she wouldn't survive in the arena with all the other tributes, the vicious Careers, and of course, Sasuke.
The fear of never being with Sasuke again gnawed at her, but she steeled herself. She had fulfilled her goal: keeping Ino and her baby safe. Ino would live, have a chance to raise her child with Shikamaru, and build their family—a chance Sakura would never have now.
She accepted this. Accepted her cruel fate, accepted that she wouldn't be able to build a future now with her husband because Sakura wouldn't dare harm Sasuke, not in a million chances. She couldn't and won't hurt him or fight him in the arena. And even though she knew she wouldn't stand a chance against him, she would never harm a single hair on his head.
This brought her to her second, most important goal now: ensuring Sasuke's victory. She would do everything in her power to make Sasuke the sole winner, the survivor. She would kill if she had to and she will sacrifice her life without a second thought, so long as Sasuke emerged victorious. She would go against her morals and oaths for him. She knew Sasuke had the capability to win even without her help, but it is always better to be sure and eliminate all possible threats.
Sakura knew Sasuke would never forgive her for this, but it was a risk she was willing to take. Better to be hated than to see the one you love die.
As Sakura entered the room, she was immediately enveloped in a suffocating hug from a sobbing, trembling Ino. Ino clung to her so hard that Sakura could barely breathe. She wanted to cry with her friend, but she held back. She had steeled her resolve and couldn't afford to break down now. Instead, she hugged Ino back, gently soothing her with soft caresses on her back.
So focused on calming Ino, Sakura didn't initially notice Shikamaru standing in the corner. When she finally saw him, his eyes were filled with a complex mix of sorrow and gratitude—gratitude for saving Ino and their child. As Ino's sobs began to subside, she shook Sakura violently, her voice rising in anger and desperation. "Why would you do that for me? It was supposed to be me! I was meant to be picked, not you. I was the one who was supposed to die, Sakura, not you!"
Sakura gently detached herself from Ino and held her hands firmly. Looking straight into her eyes, she spoke with calm conviction. "It's okay, Ino. I chose this. Don't feel guilty because this was my decision. Remember when I told you at the bakery that I would do anything to keep you and the baby safe? I meant it."
Ino broke down even more, collapsing to her knees. Shikamaru quickly moved to support her, helping her to stand again. His gaze met Sakura's, and his voice was laden with regret. "I'm so sorry, Sakura. I couldn't do anything and I'm sorry for putting you in this position."
Sakura shook her head, placing a reassuring hand on Shikamaru's shoulder. "You don't have to apologize, Shikamaru. This was my choice, my decision."
Shikamaru helped Ino into a chair, then pulled Sakura into a hug. "I'm sorry, Sakura. I'm forever indebted to you. I know I can't repay you, but I promise we will do everything we can to help you survive the Games, " he whispered.
At his words, Sakura's resolve wavered for a moment, and tears finally spilled from her eyes. She clung to Shikamaru, drawing strength from his promise.
Just then, Naruto came barging into the room. Shikamaru and Sakura broke their hug as Naruto enveloped her in a far tighter embrace than Ino's. She felt his body shake with sobs, and he repeated over and over, "I'm sorry, I'm sorry I couldn't do anything."
Sakura hugged Naruto back, her voice firm but tender. "It's okay, Naruto. I will be okay. Sasuke will be okay. I will make sure of it."
Naruto pulled back slightly, his blue eyes burning with determination. "No, Sakura. I promise you, I will do everything to save both of you. If I have to, I will start a rebellion for your sake. We will not let them take you."
Sakura's eyes widened in shock. She grabbed Naruto by the shoulders and shook him violently. "Are you crazy? Starting something like that will only kill more people—old and young, families, everyone. You'll endanger everyone, Naruto."
Naruto's eyes were resolute. "The only family I have left is you and Sasuke. And I will do everything to save my family."
Before Sakura could respond to Naruto's passionate declaration, three Peacemakers entered the room and forcibly dragged her away. Her ten minutes were up. The last thing she saw and heard was Naruto's and Ino's protests and cries, Shikamaru's crestfallen expression, and Naruto's angry face framed by Ino's tear-streaked one.
As she was pulled away, the weight of the reality pressed down on her. The faces of her friends, their pain and their love, strengthened her resolve even more. She would face whatever came next, but she carried their hopes and fears with her, a burden and a motivation she would not let go.
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Sakura was ushered and escorted by the Peacemakers to her private chambers on the Capitol train. The door closed behind her with a soft click, sealing her in an opulence she had never known. She took a deep breath, trying to steady herself, and then began to take in her surroundings.
The chambers were lavish beyond anything she could have imagined. The walls were lined with rich, dark wood paneling and accented with intricate gold filigree. A chandelier made of what appeared to be real crystal hung from the ceiling, casting a soft, shimmering light throughout the room. Plush carpets with elaborate patterns covered the floor, and the furniture was upholstered in the finest fabrics she had ever touched.
Her eyes were drawn to the bed, which was covered in a mountain of luxurious clothes. There were elegant dresses in various styles and colors, undergarments that bordered on lingerie with their expensive lace trimmings, shirts and pants made from the finest materials, and an array of sleepwear that looked more comfortable than anything she had ever worn. The sight was overwhelming, a stark contrast to the simple and worn clothes she was used to back in District 12.
She walked over to the bed, running her fingers over the fabric. Everything felt surreal, as if she had stepped into another world. She couldn't believe the extravagance of the train, the sheer wealth that surrounded her. It was beautiful, but it also made her stomach churn. The Capitol's opulence was a stark reminder of the divide between the districts and the Capitol, of the lives lost and the suffering endured to maintain such luxury.
As she continued to take in the details of the room—the expensive vases, the intricate tapestries, the polished wood furniture—she felt a sense of disorientation. How could such beauty exist in the same world where people like her and her friends struggled to survive?
A few minutes into her observations, a knock came at her door. She opened it to find Anko standing there, her expression unreadable.
"The train will take off soon," Anko said. "You better get ready. In a few minutes, you'll be meeting your mentor and your fellow tribute."
Sakura nodded, feeling a wave of nerves wash over her. She closed the door and took one last look around the room, trying to ground herself. With a deep breath, Sakura headed to the bathroom, determined to clean herself up and dress for what lay ahead. The bathroom, like the rest of the train, was a display of extravagance. Marble countertops, gold fixtures, and plush towels greeted her as she stepped inside. She took her time, letting the warm water soothe her tense muscles and wash away the grime of the day.
Once she was dressed in one of the Capitol-provided outfits, a simple yet elegant dress, she made her way to the shared area of the train, the living area. Anko was nowhere to be found, leaving Sakura alone to navigate this new space. She chose a chair at the table, which was surrounded by four chairs in total. The table itself was laden with an assortment of food, mostly pastries she couldn't even name. They looked decadent, something only the citizens of the Capitol would have the luxury to consume. But despite the tempting array, her appetite was nonexistent. She pushed the food aside and let her eyes wander around the common area. It was as grand and extravagant as her own chamber, with plush seating, rich fabrics, and a large window offering a view of the passing landscape.
As she observed her surroundings, her mind inevitably drifted to Sasuke. She hadn't spoken to him since the reaping, and the thought of facing him filled her with dread. What would he do when he saw her? She could imagine the anger and hurt in his eyes, the accusations he might throw at her. The thought of an enraged Sasuke made her skin crawl. She had only seen him truly angry once, and it was a sight she never wanted to witness again.
Her heart ached at the thought, but she knew she had to face him eventually. She had to accept whatever words he would hurl at her, whatever pain he would express. Taking a deep breath, she steeled herself for the inevitable confrontation and continued to take in her surroundings, trying to prepare herself for whatever came next.
After a few minutes of waiting alone in the common area, Sakura heard one of the doors slide open. Her head immediately turned to see who it was, and there stood Sasuke, clad in a black long sleeve shirt and black pants. His expression was one she couldn't decipher. When their eyes met—onyx against emerald—Sasuke's face turned sinister. His brows furrowed in anger, his lips curled into a snarl, and his jaw was so tight it looked like he was gritting his teeth. His eyes were blazing with fury, a dark storm brewing within them.
At the sight of him, Sakura flinched and cowered. This was the Sasuke she saw years ago, the one who was completely enraged and fueled by anger. For a moment, they stared at each other. Then, in a swift motion, Sasuke yanked her arm so hard she felt like her shoulder might dislocate from the force, pulling her from the chair to stand and face him.
Sakura looked at him straight in the eyes and started to speak, her voice slightly trembling, "Sasuke, I—"
"Shut up," Sasuke seethed, his voice cold and laced with rage. His eyes narrowed, and the veins in his neck bulged as he fought to control his anger.
Sakura glanced away, terrified by the expression he wore. He had never shown her this side of him, and she felt overwhelmed by the intensity of his gaze. Sasuke used both hands to hold her in place, his grip so strong it was almost bruising her arms.
"Look at me, Sakura."
She didn't look and instead closed her eyes. Sasuke then shook her hard, forcing her to look at him. "I said look at me, Sakura!"
She slowly turned her head to face him, and saw the fury, hurt, and betrayal in his eyes. At the sight of him, she cried. Her tears flowed freely as she shook and said, "I'm sorry..."
Sasuke's face contorted in anger. "Sorry? That's all you can say, Sakura? Seriously?" His lips curled in disgust, and his eyes flashed with bitter rage.
"I—I don't know what to say, Sasuke..." she whispered, her voice breaking, her own eyes wide with fear and regret.
"You're a hypocrite, you know that? Making me promise not to volunteer for the Games, and here you go volunteering!" Sasuke's voice rose, and his eyes were wild with anger.
"No, you don't understand, Sasuke, I—" Sakura's voice was soft, pleading, her eyes desperate.
"No, you're the one who doesn't understand. Do you even have any idea what you've done? Huh? We're expected now to kill each other, and all you can say is 'sorry'?" His tone was biting, dripping with sarcasm and fury.
"But Sasuke, I had no choice. I—" she tried to explain, her voice trembling.
"No choice? No fucking choice?" Sasuke laughed maniacally, the sound harsh and hollow. "Fucking choice... You had a choice, Sakura, and you chose the wrong one. You chose this. You chose to volunteer and go into that arena. I didn't. I didn't choose to go here, and I certainly didn't choose to be pitted against you."
Sakura sobbed at Sasuke's words. Her legs felt like jelly, and she might have crumpled to the ground if Sasuke wasn't holding her so tightly. "I'm sorry..." she said again, her voice barely above a whisper, her eyes filled with tears.
"You wouldn't have been sorry if you hadn't done this." His voice was low and dangerous, his grip tightening on her arms.
"I know, but it's done now, and I'm sorry. But I will stand by it because I know Ino and her baby are safe now," she said, her voice soft but firm, her eyes meeting his with a mix of fear and determination.
Sasuke released his grip on her, and Sakura looked at him, seeing a single tear slide down his left cheek. Her heart broke at the sight. The sight of a hurt Sasuke pained her to the bone. Sasuke then spoke, his voice low and full of hurt, "I will never forgive you for this, Sakura. Never."
With that, Sasuke left the common room. Sakura finally collapsed to her knees at Sasuke's declaration. She rested her head on the plush carpet as she cried silently, clutching her heart.
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Sasuke left the room, hearing Sakura collapse to the ground. He wanted to comfort her, to hug her tightly, but his pride took over. He was hurt, felt betrayed, and defeated. He wants to destroy something. To burn this whole fucking train— to burn all of Ninshu to ashes. But most of all, he wanted to cry and to scream at her until his throat gives up. But no matter what he'd do, nothing will change. So instead, he went to his own chamber and went directly to the bed and flung himself onto it, propping his arms to cover his eyes. His mind raced with conflicting emotions—anger, pain, and an overwhelming sense of loss.
Three hours later, a knock echoed from his chamber door. He didn't want to get up, but the insistent knocking grated on his nerves. He reluctantly rose and pushed the buttons to unlock the door, expecting to see Sakura. Instead, he found himself face to face with Kakashi Hatake, his supposed mentor.
"Yo!" Kakashi greeted, raising a hand in a casual wave.
Sasuke stared at him for a moment before speaking, his voice cold and irritated. "What do you want?"
"Maa, maa, is that how you greet your mentor now, Sasuke?" Kakashi playfully mocked, his lone eye crinkling in amusement.
Sasuke rolled his eyes, his patience wearing thin. "Tell me what you need before I close this door on you."
Kakashi sighed dramatically, his tone still light. "Such hostility. I just wanted to check in on my male tribute. Can't a mentor show some concern?"
Sasuke scoffed, his eyes narrowing. "No. And I don't need your help. No one can help me in this situation."
Kakashi leaned against the doorframe, looking thoughtful. "Hmm, I guess. But don't you want to increase your chances?" He paused dramatically before continuing. "Or both your and your lover's chances?"
Sasuke's ears perked up at Kakashi's declaration, curiosity now piqued. "What do you mean? You of all people should know that only one of us is getting out of there alive, right?"
Kakashi's eye crinkled with amusement. "Of course I know that."
Sasuke's patience was wearing thin, irritation bubbling up. "Then how?"
Kakashi's tone was cryptic, his eyes glinting with hidden amusement. "Well, that's for me to know and for you to find out—" he paused dramatically, then continued, "...later."
Sasuke wanted to punch him for that. His tone laced with irritation, he demanded, "No. Tell me now."
"Maa, maa, Sasuke, don't be impatient. We need to get your lover first before I tell you. You wouldn't want her to be left out, do you?"
"Hn. Fine." Sasuke glared at Kakashi, fists clenched at his sides.
Kakashi gave a small smile behind his mask. Sasuke knew this because of the way his face and eye glimmered and contorted. "Good. I'll go to Sakura now. See you both at dinner." And with that, Kakashi left Sasuke's chamber.
Sasuke was then left to think about what Kakashi was planning. He went back to bed and closed his eyes, trying to calm his racing thoughts. What on earth could Kakashi be planning for them?
Hours passed by on the train, and before Sasuke knew it, darkness had settled outside. Dinner and the talk with Kakashi were nearing. He really didn't want to have dinner with his mentor, who irritated him to no end, but if he wanted to know what Kakashi's plan was for him and Sakura, he had no choice but to go along with it despite his irritation. He wasn't ready to face Sakura either; the sting of her actions still fresh, but he knew he had to do it if he wanted her to survive. Pushing his thoughts aside, he prepared himself for dinner.
Stepping out of his chamber, Sasuke headed to the dining area, expecting to see Sakura and Kakashi already there. To his surprise, the room was empty. Was he too early? Had the dinner been canceled? Where were Sakura and Kakashi? Questions swirled in his mind, but he decided to sit in one of the chairs. The dinner table was laden with various foods—meats of all kinds, dishes he couldn't even name. He wasn't hungry; his appetite had vanished since the morning and probably wouldn't return anytime soon, considering the peril he and Sakura now faced. Ignoring the food, he crossed his arms around his torso and closed his eyes, waiting.
An hour later, he heard footsteps approaching the dining room. By this time, his patience had worn thin, and he was royally pissed off. Turning his head, expecting to see Sakura, he was met with Kakashi, who was alone. Sasuke's brows furrowed in confusion, and he immediately asked, "Where's Sakura?"
Kakashi replied calmly, "In her room. Resting."
"What do you mean resting? Isn't she going to join us?"
"No. She said she's tired and not hungry, so she's staying in her room."
Sasuke's confusion turned to anger. "What? I thought we were going to discuss whatever the hell your plan is here?"
Kakashi's expression remained unbothered, his lone eye showing a glimmer of amusement. "Maa, Sasuke, don't be so hasty. We can still discuss the plan. Sakura needs her rest; she's been through a lot."
Sasuke's fists clenched, his irritation palpable. "You think I don't know that? But this involves her too. She needs to be here."
Kakashi took a seat across from Sasuke, his demeanor calm as always. "I already explained and discussed things with Sakura when I went to her chamber two hours ago."
Sasuke's anger flared immediately. "Why the hell would you discuss this with Sakura alone in her chamber?" His voice was laced with jealousy. He didn't want Kakashi to be alone with Sakura.
Kakashi raised a hand to placate him. "You need to calm down, Sasuke. I mean no harm."
"Calm down? How can I calm down when you've been alone with her, discussing things without me?" Sasuke's fists clenched, his rage barely contained.
Kakashi gestured to the chair across from him. "Sit down, and I'll explain everything."
"No," Sasuke seethed, refusing to move. "Tell me now."
"Sasuke," Kakashi insisted, his voice steady, "Sit down. This will be a long talk."
With great effort, Sasuke controlled his anger, glaring at Kakashi before reluctantly sitting down. "Talk," he demanded coldly.
Kakashi leaned back slightly, his eye crinkling with amusement. "I talked to Sakura in her room because she was reluctant to come out. She insisted on staying in her room, and I didn't want to force her, especially after the distress she seemed to be in from your fight earlier."
Sasuke gritted his teeth, his glare intensifying. "You heard that?"
"Of course," Kakashi replied nonchalantly. "You weren't exactly quiet, and my room is next to the common area where you confronted each other."
Sasuke's blood boiled at the thought of Kakashi eavesdropping on their conversation. "You eavesdropped?"
"Now, now, Sasuke," Kakashi said calmly, "I didn't mean to eavesdrop you know.. I just heard accidentally, that's all."
Sasuke slammed his fist on the table. "Say whatever it is you wanted to discuss so I can get the hell out of here."
"Ahh, so impatient." Kakashi said, unperturbed. Kakashi crossed his arms around his torso before speaking again. "First of all, I want to ask you what you know about the games. Like.. how do they operate? How does one win?"
Sasuke answered truthfully, albeit curtly. "All I know is that the games are brutal. A battlefield to test individual fighting skills and the winner gains honor and pride."
Kakashi crinkled his eye in amusement. "That's the superficial way of thinking about it, Sasuke. A facade. The games are so much more than a test of skills and gaining honor and pride."
Sasuke raised an eyebrow, prompting Kakashi to continue.
"First and foremost," Kakashi explained, "the games are an entertainment."
"Entertainment?" Sasuke scoffed, incredulous. "Watching someone fight to their death is considered entertainment?"
"Yes, entertainment," Kakashi affirmed. "Not for us though, but for the citizens of the Capitol and for President Orochimaru. But for the President, it's more than that. The games are a show of his power, a reminder that he has complete control over Ninshu—our way of life, our very lives or literally everything."
Sasuke's jaw tightened as he absorbed Kakashi's words. The reality of the situation was even more twisted than he had imagined. "So, how does one win then?"
"No one ever wins the games, Sasuke. Be sure to remember that." Kakashi deadpanned.
Sasuke's brows furrowed as he recalled his brother's words. 'No one eve wins the games, Sasuke. Period.'
Kakashi's eye twinkled with hidden amusement. "And to answer your question, in order survive, you need to understand the true nature of the games and play to your strengths. But more importantly, you need to play the game differently."
Sasuke's eyes narrowed. Play the game differently. Sasuke glared at Kakashi incredulously before asking, "How does one play the games differently?"
"Good question," Kakashi replied, amusement evident in his voice, which grated on Sasuke's nerves. "I was waiting for you to ask that."
"Cut the shit, Kakashi, and stop beating around the bush," Sasuke said, irritation showing.
Kakashi rolled his eyes and sighed heavily, "Well, the first thing you need to do is make people like you," Kakashi said.
Sasuke scoffed, clearly unamused. "Make people like me? Don't fucking joke with me." When Kakashi didn't reply, Sasuke glared at him.
"I'm serious, Sasuke." Kakashi replied.
"Why the hell would I want people to like me?" Sasuke demanded.
"To get sponsors, of course," Kakashi explained, his lone eye crinkling.
"Sponsors?" Sasuke echoed.
"Yes, sponsors. Having sponsors can make a big difference between life and death. So if you want to stay alive and survive, you better make people like you—to keep you alive."
Sasuke narrowed his eyes at him, choosing not to reply.
Kakashi added mockingly, "So if I were you, you'd better change your attitude now before we get to the Capitol because from the looks of it, your attitude sucks."
"Shut up," Sasuke spat venomously. "I don't need sponsors to win. My skills alone are enough to get me through it."
"You may be right," Kakashi conceded, "but does that apply to Sakura?" At the mention of Sakura's name, Sasuke fell silent.
Kakashi continued, "I know what you're capable of, Sasuke. I've seen you train. But I can't say the same for Sakura. So if you want to save Sakura and increase her chances of survival, you will listen to me."
"Then talk," Sasuke demanded.
Kakashi smiled and said, "Which brings me to my next advice for both of you." He paused, then continued, "I suggest that you two pretend that you're strangers and not... husband and wife? Lovers? You get what I mean, Sasuke."
Sasuke's brows furrowed in confusion. "You want us to pretend like we don't know each other?"
"Yes, precisely that," Kakashi said. What? Pretend like strangers? Pretend he doesn't know her? Pretend like they're nothing more than strangers hailing from the same district? How could he pretend Sakura was just another competitor, just another face in the crowd? The very idea of it grated against his instincts. Sakura meant more to him than anyone else in the world. Ignoring her, pretending she was nothing to him, felt like a betrayal of everything he held dear. He didn't understand Kakashi's plan.
"Why on earth would I want to do that?!" Sasuke asked.
"To gain more sponsors, of course," Kakashi said straightforwardly, adding, "Because by the looks of it, you two look... what's the word? Ahh, desirable."
Sasuke tried to contain his anger and jealousy at Kakashi's words. Declaring that he finds Sakura 'desirable' made him clench his fist so tight it almost became white. He glared at Kakashi. Sensing Sasuke's anger, Kakashi rolled his eyes. "As I've said before, Sasuke, I mean no harm. I only want to help you both."
Sasuke's anger only diminished slightly.
"If you're done being all jealous and all, you might want to continue our discussion now, eh?"
Sasuke didn't reply, but Kakashi took it as his cue to continue. "As I've mentioned before, you two look desirable, meaning a lot of sponsors would lay their eyes on you. And it will only increase if you two are considered not taken, or single to be exact. Because the people of the Capitol—or sponsors, if I may say—would think that they would have a chance with you both, thus increasing your popularity. A pretty bachelorette and a handsome bachelor can really be considered an asset."
But as much as he hated it, Kakashi had a point. If they were seen as more desirable, as Kakashi put it, they could have a higher chance of survival. Sakura would have a higher chance of survival. He knew she had the power to charm her way into people's hearts. She had always been kind, strong, and undeniably charismatic. Maybe she could gain more sponsors if she was seen as single, thus increasing her appeal.
But the thought of people ogling her, pining after her, made his blood boil, but he couldn't let his jealousy get in the way. This was about survival, not just his own but hers as well.
"So if I were you, I would take lessons with your wife on how to charm people because you really need it. And by the looks of it, Sakura is extremely good at it. Hell, she even charmed me, and I've only officially met her today."
Sasuke's jealousy flared up again. "Stay away from her," he said, his voice laced with venom.
Kakashi chuckled and mocked Sasuke. "Don't be such a brat, Sasuke. She's all yours." Kakashi then proceeded to stand up and decided to exit the room. But before he could finally exit the dining area, he added, "Think about this, Sasuke, and talk to her already." Then Kakashi finally left, leaving Sasuke with his thoughts.
Pretend to be a bachelor for sponsors. Sasuke would have laughed at the absurdity of it all because he didn't care about the sponsors to be perfectly honest. And he'd always hated it when people are ogling him, pining after him, pushing their luck on him. And of course— he knows that he could survive out there because of his skills, sponsors or no sponsors. He could hunt, fight, adapt— survive. He is proud to declare that he is damn good fighter and hunter.
But he couldn't make the same assumption about Sakura, not because he thought she was weak— it is far from it. He knows that Sakura is strong and could fight for herself. But the games are brutal, and he couldn't afford to take any chances when it comes to her safety. So he would try for her. Go along with Kakashi's advice even if hates everything about it because he would do anything, even sacrifice his own life, just for her to survive and emerge victorious. The thought of her dying, of losing her, was unbearable. So for Sakura's sake, he had to do it, even if he didn't want to. Because he would do anything to increase her chances of survival in the games.
He clenched his fists, feeling the tension in his muscles. This was about more than just winning now; it was about protecting the person he cared about most. And if that meant playing along with Kakashi's ridiculous plan, then so be it. He would endure it, he would pretend, he would do whatever it took, all for her sake. Because in the end, Sakura's survival was all that mattered.
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After their mentor Kakashi had come to discuss things with her hours ago, Sakura was left alone with her thoughts. She lay on her bed, staring at the ceiling, her mind racing with the details of Kakashi's plan. Pretend to be strangers, to be more desirable. The idea gnawed at her. Could that really be the best strategy? The thought of pretending that Sasuke didn't mean anything to her made her heart ache. Pretending to be single for popularity and sponsors was tearing her apart. She didn't want to deny her engagement to Sasuke, nor did she want anyone from the Capitol or other tributes getting comfortable or handsy with her. Especially now, with so little time left before the games. This might be their last week or month together, considering there could only be one winner in the games.
All these thoughts hurt her brain, making it hard to focus on anything else. Kakashi had even brought her dinner, but she had no appetite. She just lay in bed, letting the thoughts consume her, until they wore her out.
Just past midnight, a knock on her door broke her reverie. Curiosity piqued, she hastily got out of bed and opened the door. She came face to face with a distressed-looking Sasuke.
"Hi," she greeted him softly.
"Hn," Sasuke grunted. They stared at each other for a moment before Sasuke spoke again, "Can I come in?"
Embarrassed by her lapse in etiquette, she reddened and stuttered, "Uh… s-sure… come in." She led him to sit on her bed.
Sasuke followed her and sat down as well. They stayed like that for a couple of minutes, the silence suffocating and awkward. Neither seemed to know how to start the conversation, both still reeling from their earlier fight.
Sakura was about to break the silence when Sasuke beat her to it. "I—" he started, his voice low.
Sakura looked at him, seeing his head bowed and eyes cast down. She waited for him to finish, but after a few seconds, it seemed he wouldn't continue. She decided to speak. "I'm sorry," she said softly.
"Hn."
She reached out and grabbed his hand, intertwining their fingers. She felt Sasuke tense at the contact, a reminder of his lingering anger. But after a few seconds, he didn't pull away, allowing their hands to stay connected.
"I know I can't take back what I did," she began again, "and I know that you may never forgive me for this, but Sasuke, I will still stand by my decision wherever this leads me."
Sakura felt Sasuke's grip on her hand tighten. She knew he was struggling with his emotions, barely holding onto his patience. She raised their intertwined hands to her lips and pressed a gentle kiss on the back of his hand, muttering a soft, "Sorry."
After she kissed the back of his hand, Sasuke looked at her, their eyes meeting. For a moment, they locked gazes, and Sakura saw the resignation in his eyes and expression. A tear slid down her cheek, the weight of their situation pressing heavily on her heart.
"You're so annoying.."
Without a word, Sasuke bent down, his face moving closer to hers. He hesitated for a brief moment, searching her eyes for any sign of resistance. When he found none, he closed the distance between them, pressing his lips to hers in a soft, slow kiss. Sakura closed her eyes, letting herself melt into the kiss. She wrapped her arms around Sasuke's neck, pulling him closer. The warmth of his lips against hers brought a fleeting sense of comfort, a small respite from the turmoil that plagued their mind. The kiss deepened as she opened her mouth, his tongue mingling with hers as they fight for dominance. And it was pure bliss.
And in that brief moment, nothing else mattered but them.
The air grew hot as he gently pushed her down the bed, pressing her into the silk sheets. He positioned himself until he was on top of her, one hand brushing away her tears, the other reaching down her thigh. His touch was tender, insistent, hot— desperate. The way his fingers trailed up her leg sent shivers through her, eliciting a moan. Sakura's breath hitched as his knee nudge hers apart as he slipped between her thighs. The pressure grew as he pressed his body closer letting his weight rest slightly on hers as her further deepened the kiss. Sasuke began nipping at her lower lips, sucking it hungrily.
The kiss was searing, overpowering, suffocating.
Sakura wrapped her legs around his waist and his hands were under her ass, raising her up. And in one swift motion, he removed her underwear and he began undressing himself. She jerked in surprise when his hands trailed along her abdomen up along her breast. He began cupping and squeezing her breasts as his thumbs caresses her nipples. Then she gasped, hands fisting in his hair as he buried inside her in one swift motion.
She heard him moan, and she felt a strange fullness sending a shockwave through her system when he entered her. He kissed her hungrily as he retreated, then slammed back into her. She whimpers, simultaneously clinging and clawing at his shoulders, digging her heels into the small of his back, wanting him deeper, wanting more.
God, he fits her so well. He felt so, sooo good.
She forgot about the games. Forgot about their cruel fate. Nothing outside this room existed. There is only him and her. Sakura and Sasuke. Them against the world.
They didn't utter a single word, her chamber was silent except for her broken little ahh-ahh-ahh's and his moans punctuating his quick and rough thrusts and the sound of skin against skin. A particularly deep thrust undoes her and she cries out her release but still he continues, making love to her through the waves of pleasure until he came inside her.
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After their spontaneous lovemaking, they lay tangled in each other's arms, breaths mingling in the quiet aftermath. Sasuke held Sakura close, his fingers weaving gently through her long pink hair. His touch was tender, a stark contrast to the fervor of their previous passion.
Sakura nestled closer to Sasuke, her head resting on his chest, the steady rhythm of his heartbeat a soothing lullaby. His fingers continued their slow, rhythmic dance through her hair, each stroke a wordless reassurance of his presence. The warmth of his body enveloped her, a cocoon of safety and love amidst the uncertainty of their future.
She felt her eyelids grow heavy, the exhaustion of the day catching up with her. The world outside their embrace faded into insignificance, and the only reality was the comforting rise and fall of Sasuke's chest beneath her cheek. In the hazy moments before sleep claimed her, Sakura faintly heard Sasuke's whispered promise I'll make sure you survive, Sakura.
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One heart. One soul. Same drive. Two different goals.