The train's rhythmic chugging echoed in the distance as Sakura approached the platform. Her heart was light with anticipation, each step bringing her closer to a familiar sanctuary she had longed for. She was on her way to visit her grandparents, a ritual she cherished but had been unable to indulge in for far too long.
City life had a way of consuming her—days blurred together under the constant hum of responsibilities, the relentless pace of work, and the never-ending noise that seemed to echo in her mind even during moments of supposed quiet. The prospect of escaping to her grandparents' countryside home filled her with a warmth that no amount of urban excitement could replicate.
The old house, nestled at the edge of a sprawling meadow, had always been her haven. Its walls were steeped in memories of childhood summers, where the scent of freshly baked bread mingled with the fragrance of wildflowers carried by the breeze. Her grandmother's soft, wrinkled hands would cradle her face in a gesture of affection, and her grandfather's deep, resonant laughter would fill the room as he recounted stories of the past. Sakura missed these simple moments of connection—the feeling of being surrounded by unconditional love and the serenity that came with it.
The air was crisp that morning, carrying the scent of rain-soaked earth, a sign of the heavy downpour that had washed over the city just hours before. She tugged her coat closer, the warmth of the carriage embracing her like a soft, comforting blanket. The gentle hum of the engine vibrated beneath her feet, a constant reminder that she was on her way to a place where time seemed to slow down, allowing her to catch her breath.
As she walked towards the platform, her phone buzzed in her hand. It was a call from her mother, checking in on her as usual. Sakura answered with a smile, the familiar sound of her mother's voice bringing her a sense of comfort.
"Hi, Mom. Yes, I'm just about to board the train," Sakura said, glancing at the time on her phone. Her mother's voice was warm and affectionate. "Oh, that's wonderful, dear. Your grandparents are so excited to see you. They've been preparing all your favorite dishes. Your grandmother even baked that apple pie you love so much."
Sakura's heart swelled with affection. "I can't wait, Mom. I've missed them so much. And you too," she added, her voice softening. "We miss you too, sweetheart," her mother replied. "But it's good you're taking some time off. You've been working so hard."
"I know," Sakura agreed. "This trip is exactly what I need. A little break from everything."
Just then, the distant sound of the approaching train reached her ears. "The train's almost here, Mom. I'll call you when I get there, okay?" "Alright, honey. Travel safe, and give our love to Grandma and Grandpa."
"I will. Love you," Sakura said, her voice tinged with emotion as she ended the call. She tucked her phone into her coat pocket, feeling a mix of excitement and nostalgia wash over her.As she moved closer to the edge of the platform, her phone buzzed again—this time with a text message from Ino.
Ino: Don't forget to bring me back some of that famous countryside honey! Safe travels!
Sakura smiled at the message, her fingers quickly typing a response.
Sakura: Of course! I'll get you the best jar they have. Thanks, Ino.
She hit send just as the train pulled into the station, its metallic sheen glistening under the soft morning light. The doors slid open with a gentle hiss, and Sakura stepped aboard, the warmth of the carriage embracing her like a soft, comforting blanket. The gentle hum of the engine vibrated beneath her feet, a constant reminder that she was on her way to a place where time seemed to slow down, allowing her to catch her breath.
Inside, the train was quaint, almost charming in its simplicity. The interior was designed to be cozy and inviting, with large windows that framed the rolling countryside as if it were a painting in motion. The seats, upholstered in deep burgundy, added a touch of old-world elegance, contrasting with the modern world outside.
As the train gently swayed on the tracks, the carriage felt like a world apart, a temporary escape where one could sit back and simply watch the world go by.
Sakura's eyes roamed the length of the carriage, searching for a place to settle. Rows of plush seats stretched before her, most of them unoccupied. A few travelers were scattered about—an elderly couple murmuring softly to one another, their heads close in a display of long-acquainted intimacy; a mother trying to pacify her restless child, her voice gentle and soothing; and a businessman already absorbed in his laptop, the blue light from the screen reflecting off his glasses. Each person seemed lost in their own world, yet none of these sights drew her attention for long.
It wasn't any of these empty seats that captured her focus. Instead, her gaze was inexplicably pulled toward the middle of the carriage, where a solitary figure sat, engrossed in a book. He was a young man, his presence both subtle and magnetic. His head was bowed, his face obscured behind a curtain of jet-black hair that fell over his eyes, lending him an air of mystery.
The soft lighting of the carriage cast shadows that accentuated his sharp features, though most of his face remained hidden. He was like a puzzle piece in an otherwise tranquil setting, drawing her attention without effort.
Without fully understanding why, Sakura felt an irresistible urge to sit near him. There were plenty of other seats—seats that were more isolated, seats that were closer to the window, seats that would afford her more space—but none of them seemed to matter.
It was as if some invisible force was guiding her, compelling her to occupy the seat directly in front of this stranger. Her feet moved almost on their own, her steps light and purposeful, and before she knew it, she was there, lowering herself into the seat across from him.
She placed her bag beside her, the slight rustle of her movements the only sound breaking the silence between them. The train lurched forward, the gentle acceleration barely noticeable, and she let herself sink into the seat, allowing the carriage's soft sway to relax her. A subtle sense of anticipation fluttered in her chest, though she wasn't sure why. She had no reason to feel nervous, yet something about this moment felt different, significant even.
For a moment, Sakura hesitated to look directly at him, but the curiosity gnawed at her, impossible to resist. Slowly, she lifted her gaze, studying him in small, stolen glances, hoping to remain unnoticed. His posture was casual yet composed, his broad shoulders slightly hunched as he read. The book in his hands was worn, the pages slightly yellowed, suggesting it had been read many times over. The title was obscured by his fingers, but the way he held it, with a kind of reverence, indicated it was something meaningful, something rich with detail and emotion.
Her eyes drifted lower, taking in his attire. He wore a simple dark blue hoodie that clung to his frame in a way that was effortlessly stylish, accentuating the lean lines of his body. Beneath it, a plain black t-shirt peeked out, the deep color contrasting with the soft light filtering through the windows. His jeans, a similar deep blue, were well-fitted, neither too loose nor too tight, just right for someone who moved through the world with quiet confidence.
There was a quiet elegance to his clothing, nothing ostentatious, but everything perfectly suited to him, as if it had been chosen with care. His hands, which she couldn't help but notice, were strong yet graceful, his fingers moving with a practiced ease as he turned the page of his book.
It was his face, though, that truly captivated her, or at least what she could see of it. His bangs fell over his forehead, obscuring much of his expression, but she could make out the strong line of his jaw, the delicate curve of his lips, and the shadow of his lashes as they rested against his cheek. There was an aura of calm around him, a quiet intensity that drew her in like a moth to a flame.
Sakura found herself wondering what kind of person he was, what stories might lie behind those unreadable eyes hidden by his bangs. He seemed both distant and familiar, like a character out of one of those novels she used to lose herself in as a teenager. The thought brought a soft smile to her lips—she had always been a romantic at heart, her imagination often spinning tales of chance encounters and fleeting moments that somehow became something more. And for reasons she couldn't quite fathom, she felt an inexplicable desire to know him, to hear his voice, to see those eyes focused on her.
This realization startled her, and she quickly averted her gaze, feeling her cheeks flush with heat. What was wrong with her? She'd never been one to ogle strangers on a train. And yet, here she was, practically spellbound by a man she hadn't even seen clearly. It was ridiculous, she scolded herself, to be so affected by someone she knew nothing about, but the pull she felt towards him was undeniable.
But her self-restraint only lasted a few moments. Her eyes were drawn back to him, as if they had a mind of their own. There was something about him that she couldn't ignore, something that made her chest tighten with a mix of nervousness and excitement. She watched as he continued to read, oblivious to her presence, his attention fully absorbed by the words on the page.
And then, as if sensing her gaze, he looked up.
It was as if time itself slowed. His face, now fully revealed, was nothing short of breathtaking. His eyes were the first thing she noticed—deep onyx pools that shimmered with hints of midnight blue, like the sky just before dawn.
They were intense, piercing, as if they could see right through her, into the very depths of her soul. His features were sharp, almost aristocratic, with high cheekbones and a perfectly sculpted nose. His lips were slightly parted, soft and inviting, with just a hint of a smirk tugging at the corners.
He raised an eyebrow, his expression shifting to one of mild amusement as he caught her staring. Those captivating eyes sparkled with a mix of curiosity and something else—something playful that made her heart skip a beat. It was a look that said he knew exactly what she was thinking, and it left her feeling exposed, vulnerable, but also strangely exhilarated.
Sakura's breath caught in her throat, her heart hammering wildly in her chest. She couldn't tear her eyes away from him, even though every part of her screamed that she should. The connection between them, brief as it was, felt electric, as if the air around them had suddenly become charged with a thousand unsaid words.
Realizing that she'd been caught, and not just caught but utterly captivated, she felt a surge of panic. Her face turned a brilliant shade of red, and she quickly broke eye contact, her hands fumbling in her lap. She had to get out of here before she embarrassed herself any further.
Without thinking, she stood up abruptly, nearly knocking over her bag in the process. The man's gaze followed her, still amused, as if he was enjoying this little show. Sakura mumbled an incoherent excuse—something about needing the bathroom—and hurried down the aisle, her footsteps echoing in the quiet carriage.
As she reached the door to the bathroom, she leaned against it for a moment, her heart still racing. What had just happened? She'd never reacted to anyone like that before, and it scared her. But it also intrigued her.
Taking a deep breath, Sakura tried to compose herself. She was going to talk to him, she decided. She couldn't just let this moment slip away. But first, she needed to calm down and gather her thoughts. The last thing she wanted was to make a fool of herself in front of him again. Sakura turned on the small faucet, splashing cool water on her face, the chill helping to steady her racing heart. She stared at her reflection in the tiny mirror, willing herself to regain some composure.
What was it about him that had left her so unsettled? She had encountered attractive men before, but never had she felt such a visceral reaction. Those eyes, though—there was something in them that went beyond mere looks. They were deep and searching, as if they could peer into the hidden corners of her soul. It was both terrifying and thrilling.She took a few more deep breaths, trying to shake off the nervous energy buzzing through her.
"You can do this," she whispered to herself, her reflection nodding back with a mix of determination and uncertainty. After all, it was just a conversation. Just a chance to get to know the person behind that enigmatic exterior.
But what if he wasn't interested in talking? What if he was one of those people who preferred to be left alone, content to immerse themselves in their books and thoughts? The idea gave her pause. She didn't want to intrude or make him uncomfortable.
Yet, the connection she had felt when their eyes met was too strong to ignore. There was a magnetism between them that she couldn't explain, and it felt like something that was meant to happen.
Sakura took one final breath before she exited the bathroom, determination steadying her steps. The hum of the train seemed louder now, a low vibration that matched the rhythm of her racing heart. As she walked back down the aisle, a sudden memory jolted her—her bag. She'd left it behind in her haste to escape. Panic flared in her chest, sharp and immediate, but she forced it down. Not everyone is out to steal unattended belongings. Still, the thought of her things in the hands of a stranger sent a rush of urgency through her, propelling her forward.
The aisle stretched before her, the narrow passage between seats seeming longer with every hurried step. The train swayed gently, a reminder of the uncertainty she felt, of how easily things could shift from familiar to unfamiliar. She dodged passengers, her eyes fixed on her destination, each step bringing her closer to her seat and the answers she sought.
When she finally reached her seat, relief washed over her. Her bag was exactly where she had left it, untouched. But her relief was fleeting, quickly replaced by a sinking feeling as she noticed something—or rather, someone—that hadn't been there before. A girl with long, raven-black hair now sat next to the man, her head resting on his shoulder as if she had always belonged there. The sight made Sakura's heart sink, her earlier confidence draining away like water through a sieve.
The girl was asleep, her face serene, while the man continued to read his book, seemingly unbothered by her presence. His expression was calm, his posture relaxed, and yet there was a stillness about him that made Sakura feel like he was aware of everything around him, even as he appeared engrossed in his reading. Sakura's mind raced with questions. Was this his girlfriend? A close friend?
The possibility of either gnawed at her, but she knew she couldn't jump to conclusions. There was still something about him that pulled her in, something she needed to explore, no matter how awkward the situation had suddenly become.
With a small, resolute nod to herself, Sakura slipped back into her seat across from him. The girl's presence was hard to ignore, but Sakura steeled herself, focusing on the man and the conversation she was determined to start. Gathering her courage, she glanced at the book in his hands, searching for an opening.
"Is the novel very good?" she asked, her voice steady despite the nervous flutter in her chest.
The man didn't look up immediately, as if her question took a moment to register. He turned the page with deliberate slowness, his fingers brushing the paper lightly before finally lifting his gaze to meet hers. The intensity in his stare made Sakura's breath catch, as if he was seeing past her words, past her outward composure, and straight into the heart of her uncertainty. His gaze was both unsettling and grounding, holding her in place with a silent, unspoken challenge.
He studied her for a moment, as if weighing the sincerity of her question, before nodding slightly. His expression remained neutral, but there was a subtle flicker of curiosity in his eyes, something that made Sakura feel as though she had caught his attention.
"Yes," he replied, his voice as deep and steady as she had imagined it would be. The sound was rich, resonant, with a slight roughness that suggested a life lived with quiet intensity. There was a deliberate calmness in the way he spoke, as if each word was chosen carefully, each syllable measured. It made Sakura feel as though she had asked something far more profound than she had intended. "It's one of my favorites."
Sakura's heart skipped a beat, the simple exchange already enough to make her feel the thrill of connection again. His voice, with its quiet power, seemed to wrap around her, drawing her in, making her feel as though they were the only two people in the world despite the presence of others. Determined to keep the conversation going, she pushed the presence of the sleeping girl to the back of her mind.
"What's it about?" she asked, genuinely curious now, her eyes briefly flickering to the book's cover, which was still partially obscured by his fingers.
He tilted the book slightly, revealing the title. Sakura recognized it—a classic, one she had read years ago but hadn't revisited in a long time. The familiarity brought a small smile to her face, a mix of nostalgia and the sudden realization that they shared something in common.
"It's a story about redemption," he explained, his voice thoughtful, as if he were choosing his words with care. His expression softened slightly, a faint light entering his eyes as he spoke, as though the subject matter was close to his heart. "About how people can change, even when it seems impossible. The characters are flawed, but that's what makes them real."
Sakura nodded, feeling a connection not just with the story he described, but with the way he spoke about it. There was a depth to his words, a sense that he understood the novel on a level beyond just the surface plot. It made her even more intrigued. The way his eyes seemed to darken when he spoke of the characters' flaws suggested that he, too, might have wrestled with his own demons. It was this subtle vulnerability, hidden beneath his calm exterior, that drew her in even more.
"I remember reading it a few years ago," she said, her voice softening. "I was struck by how the main character kept fighting for something better, even when the world seemed against him."
He looked at her then, really looked at her, and for a moment, she thought she saw something flicker in his eyes—an understanding, maybe even a shared experience. His gaze held hers longer this time, the corners of his mouth twitching ever so slightly, as if he was on the verge of smiling but wasn't quite ready to let it show. But just as quickly, his gaze returned to the book, his expression unreadable once more, the moment of connection slipping away.
"It's a good reminder," he said quietly, his voice carrying a hint of something deeper—regret, perhaps, or a longing for something lost. "That we all have the capacity to change if we're willing to try."
Sakura nodded again, letting his words sink in. She felt a connection growing between them, even if it was just through this brief conversation about a book. His words resonated with her, striking a chord she hadn't expected. It wasn't just the story they were discussing—it was the idea behind it, the shared understanding that life was a series of struggles and transformations. It was enough to make her glad she hadn't backed down, that she'd chosen to speak to him despite the uncertainties.
As the conversation continued, Sakura felt her nerves begin to ease, replaced by a growing curiosity about the man sitting across from her. His calm demeanor, the way he spoke with such depth, made her want to know more.
"Do you read a lot of novels like that?" she asked, hoping to keep the conversation going. "The ones that make you think about life and change?"
He paused, as if considering how much to reveal. His fingers lightly traced the edge of the book's cover before he closed it gently, resting it on his lap. There was something deliberate in the way he moved, a carefulness that suggested he was a man used to keeping his thoughts guarded, revealing only what he chose to share.
"Yes," he replied, meeting her eyes once more. His gaze was steady, unwavering, as if he was inviting her into a part of his world, but only a small part. "I think stories like these help us understand ourselves better. They show us what we can be or what we should try to avoid becoming."
There was a sincerity in his words that resonated with her. It wasn't just about the book anymore—there was something deeper at play, something that made her want to know more about him, about the way he saw the world. She could sense the layers beneath his calm exterior, the complexities that he kept hidden, and it made her even more determined to peel them back, one by one.
"I like that," Sakura said, her voice warm, a genuine smile touching her lips. "It's one of the reasons I love reading too. It's like… each book teaches you something new about yourself."
He gave a small nod, the corners of his mouth turning up slightly, almost imperceptibly. It wasn't quite a smile, but it was close enough to make her feel like she was getting through to him. The tension that had been simmering beneath her skin began to ease, replaced by a quiet excitement—a sense that she was on the verge of discovering something important, something that might change the course of this journey, and perhaps even more.
Feeling more at ease now, Sakura found herself growing bolder, her curiosity about him deepening. She studied his face, noting the sharp angles of his jaw, the way his dark hair fell just above his eyes. There was something timeless about him, something that made her wonder about his life beyond this train, beyond this moment.
"So… how old are you?" she asked, her tone light but genuinely curious.
He raised an eyebrow, amusement flickering in his dark eyes as he studied her face in return. "Is that your way of asking if I'm older than you?"
Sakura felt a blush creep up her cheeks but held his gaze, determined not to be intimidated. "Maybe. But you don't look that much older," she countered, a playful challenge in her voice.
The corners of his mouth twitched again, this time more noticeably. "I'll be eighteen in a few months," he said, his tone calm but laced with a hint of intrigue.
Sakura's blush deepened, a mix of embarrassment and relief flooding through her. She hadn't expected him to be so close in age—there was something about the way he carried himself that seemed older, more mature. Yet, hearing that he was only a few months shy of eighteen made him feel more approachable, more real. It also made her more curious about him, the layers of mystery that she wanted to uncover.
"Oh," she said, her voice softening with a touch of surprise. "I just turned eighteen a few weeks ago."
His expression shifted slightly, his eyes narrowing in what seemed like thoughtful contemplation. "So, I'm speaking to someone older and wiser?" he asked, his voice laced with a playful undertone that Sakura hadn't expected.
She laughed lightly, the sound soft and genuine. "I don't know about wiser, but definitely older," she teased back, feeling a newfound confidence in the easy banter that was developing between them.
He studied her for a moment longer, as if trying to gauge the depth of her words, before his gaze softened, a subtle warmth entering his eyes. "You seem like you've got it all figured out," he remarked, his tone half-serious, half-teasing. "Most people our age don't talk about redemption and change."
Sakura felt a pang of self-awareness, wondering if he could see through her more easily than she had thought. There was a truth to what he said—she often felt older than her years, weighed down by thoughts and questions that others around her didn't seem to share. But she didn't want to come across as overly serious, not when their conversation was finally becoming more relaxed.
"I guess books have that effect on me," she admitted, her tone light. "They make me think about things differently, about life in a way that sometimes feels… bigger than just what's happening right now."
He nodded, a knowing look passing over his face. "It's good to think that way. To look beyond the immediate. It's how we grow."
There was a sincerity in his words that struck Sakura deeply, and she found herself wanting to know more about him, about the experiences that had shaped his view of the world. She hesitated for a moment, then decided to take the plunge, emboldened by the connection they had begun to forge.
"So, do you spend a lot of time thinking about these things too?" she asked, her voice softer now, more intimate. "About life and growth, and… change?"
His gaze grew more intense, the playful spark dimming slightly as a deeper, more reflective look took its place. "Sometimes," he replied, his tone measured. "It's hard not to when you've seen how quickly things can change. How life can… take you by surprise."
There was something in his voice, a hint of vulnerability, that made Sakura feel like she was glimpsing a part of him that he didn't often show to others. She wanted to reach out, to ask him more, but before she could find the right words, he continued, his tone shifting to something lighter, almost teasing.
"You ask a lot of questions," he said, the corners of his mouth curling into the smallest hint of a smile. "Are you trying to interrogate me?"
Sakura blinked, caught off guard by the sudden change in his demeanor, but she quickly recovered, meeting his gaze with a playful defiance. "Maybe," she said, her voice carrying a challenging edge. "But only because you're so mysterious. It makes me want to know more."
His expression softened, his amusement evident in the way his eyes crinkled at the corners. "And what if I decided to turn the tables? Start asking you the same questions?"
Sakura tilted her head slightly, her smile widening. "I think I could handle that," she replied, her voice full of quiet confidence. "But you'd have to ask the right questions."
He was about to respond, a flicker of curiosity lighting up his dark eyes, when the girl next to him shifted in her sleep, cutting him off. Her movement was slight, but it drew his attention immediately.
Sakura's smile faded slightly as she watched him adjust the sleeping girl beside him. Her earlier confidence wavered, and an unbidden feeling of jealousy bubbled up, though she tried her best to suppress it. The way he was so gentle with the girl—someone she assumed was significant to him—only added to her unease. Sakura's gaze flickered from the girl's peaceful face back to his, her thoughts a swirling mix of curiosity, insecurity, and a nagging sense of defeat.
Sasuke must have noticed the shift in her expression because he suddenly spoke, his voice cutting through the tension. "She's not someone I know," he said, his tone calm and straightforward, as if sensing the need to clarify. His eyes, those deep oryx black irises with just a hint of dark blue, met Sakura's with a sincerity that made her breath catch. "She just took the seat next to me and fell asleep. She looked really tired, so I didn't want to wake her."
Sakura blinked, the revelation taking a moment to sink in. "Oh," she managed to say, relief flooding her chest, pushing out the lingering jealousy. She hadn't even realized how tense she'd been until now. Her shoulders relaxed as she processed his words, feeling a bit foolish for jumping to conclusions.
A faint smile tugged at the corner of Sasuke's lips, barely noticeable but there nonetheless, as if he found her reaction slightly amusing. "I don't usually let strangers fall asleep on me," he added, a hint of dry humor in his voice that caught her off guard.
Sakura let out a soft laugh, the tension between them easing even further. "Well, that's good to know," she replied, her tone light, playful. The earlier awkwardness that had clouded their conversation began to dissipate, replaced by a shared understanding, a connection that felt more genuine now that she knew the truth.
Just as they settled back into the moment, the train began to slow, the gentle hum beneath them shifting into a more pronounced vibration as it approached the next station. The girl beside Sasuke stirred, her head lifting slightly from his shoulder. For a brief moment, she seemed disoriented, her eyes fluttering open as she realized where she was and what she had been doing.
"Oh my gosh," the girl muttered, straightening up quickly as she processed the situation. Her eyes widened in embarrassment as she glanced between Sasuke and Sakura, her cheeks flushing a deep red. "I'm so sorry," she apologized hastily, her voice trembling with mortification. "I didn't mean to fall asleep on you."
Sasuke shook his head, his expression neutral, yet there was a gentleness in his voice as he responded. "It's alright. You looked like you needed the rest."
The girl offered a small, grateful smile, but it was clear she was eager to escape the awkwardness of the situation. As the train came to a complete stop, she quickly gathered her belongings, offering another rushed apology before she hurried off the train, disappearing into the throng of passengers on the platform.
Sakura watched the girl go, a mixture of relief and something else—an odd sort of satisfaction—settling in her chest. When she turned back to Sasuke, she found him watching her, a curious, almost inquisitive look in his eyes.
"I guess that solves that," Sakura remarked, her tone a little more upbeat now that the interruption was gone. "It's not every day you end up being someone's pillow."
Sasuke's lips twitched into the faintest hint of a smile, his gaze softening as he regarded her. "No, it's not," he agreed, his voice low, the quiet strength in it making Sakura's heart skip a beat once more. "But I suppose some things are hard to avoid."
There was something about the way he said it, the way his gaze seemed to linger on hers just a little longer, that made her feel like they were sharing a private joke—something only the two of them understood. It brought a warmth to her cheeks, and she felt a sense of intimacy creeping in, as though the world outside the train had faded, leaving only the two of them in this small, shared space.
"So," Sakura began, trying to keep the conversation going now that they were alone again, "about that interrogation… Should I be prepared for payback?"
Sasuke raised an eyebrow, a playful glint in his eyes. "Maybe," he said, his tone teasing but also layered with something more, something that made Sakura's pulse quicken. "But only if you're up for it."
Sakura felt a thrill at the challenge in his words. "I think I can handle it," she replied, her voice steady, determined. "But you'll have to ask the right questions."
Sasuke's expression turned thoughtful, and for a moment, Sakura could see the gears turning in his mind as he considered his next move. The train jolted slightly as it started moving again.
Sasuke settled back into his seat, the slight smile on his lips lingering as he turned his attention fully to Sakura. The subtle challenge in her words seemed to intrigue him, and she could tell he was now ready to engage in the conversation on a more personal level.
"So," Sasuke began, his voice low but clear, "where are you headed on this train ride?" His eyes, those deep oryx black irises with the faint hint of dark blue, held hers steadily, and Sakura could feel the intensity of his gaze even as his tone remained calm and almost casual.Sakura hesitated for a brief moment, not because she didn't want to answer, but because she found herself unexpectedly flustered under the weight of his attention.
It was as if he was looking past her words and into the intent behind them, trying to understand her on a level deeper than she was used to. She quickly pushed the feeling aside, determined not to let it throw her off.
Sakura's eyes softened as she thought about the reason for her trip. "I'm visiting my grandparents," she said, her voice tender. "It's been a long time since we spent time together, and I've missed them. They live in the countryside, where it's quiet and peaceful. I guess I just needed a break from everything."
Sasuke listened intently, his gaze steady on her, absorbing the warmth in her words. There was something almost nostalgic in her tone, and it resonated with him in a way he hadn't expected. "That sounds nice," he replied, his voice softer now, a hint of wistfulness creeping in. "Spending time with family… it's important."
Sakura nodded, feeling a pang of emotion as she thought about the upcoming visit. "Yeah, it is. My grandparents were always there for me when I was younger. They're the kind of people who make you feel at home no matter where you are. I think I've been so caught up in everything else lately that I forgot how much I needed that."
Sasuke's expression shifted, something unspoken passing between them. He understood what she meant, perhaps more than she realized. "It's easy to get caught up," he said quietly, almost as if he was speaking from experience. "But it's good that you're taking the time to go back. Not everyone gets that chance."
Sakura noticed the change in his tone, the subtle depth that suggested there was more to his words. She wondered what his story was, what memories he was keeping close to his heart. "Do you visit your family often?" she asked gently, hoping to learn more about him.
Sasuke hesitated, his gaze dropping to the floor for a moment before he looked back up at her. "Not as often as I should," he admitted, a trace of regret in his voice. "But I'm going now… I guess that's something."
Sakura felt a tug of sympathy, sensing that there was a lot left unsaid. "It is," she agreed softly. "It's never too late to reconnect."
Sasuke gave a small nod, his expression thoughtful. "Yeah," he murmured, almost to himself. "It's not."
Sakura's gaze softened as she noticed the fleeting emotions that passed over Sasuke's face. There was something in his eyes—an underlying sadness that made her heart ache just a little. She hesitated, not wanting to pry, but she couldn't help her curiosity or the growing need to understand him better.
"What's wrong?" she asked gently, her voice laced with concern. She leaned in slightly, her expression open and earnest, hoping to encourage him to share whatever was weighing on him.Sasuke's gaze dropped again, his eyes focused on some distant point on the floor. He seemed to be considering her question carefully, as if he was deciding how much to reveal.
After a moment, he finally spoke, his voice quiet, almost hesitant. "It's… complicated," he began, the words coming out slowly, as if he was testing the waters. Sakura nodded, giving him the space to continue at his own pace.
"You don't have to tell me everything," she said softly, trying to make it easier for him. "Just whatever you feel comfortable sharing."
He looked up at her then, his dark eyes meeting hers, and there was something in his gaze that made her chest tighten—something raw and vulnerable, but also guarded, like he was afraid to let it show.
"I've been away from home for a while now," he admitted, his voice low. "I moved out to live near the university 2 years ago."
Sakura's eyes widened slightly in surprise. She hadn't expected that. "University?" she echoed, her tone curious. "What year are you in?"
"Second year," Sasuke replied, his voice steadying as he spoke, a faint hint of pride in his tone. "I'm studying law."
Sakura blinked, taken aback. "You're already in your second year? But… how? I'm just about to start university after the summer break."
A small, amused smile tugged at the corners of Sasuke's lips, and he glanced at her with a mixture of warmth and teasing in his eyes.
"I skipped a few grades in middle school and high school," he explained, almost nonchalantly, as if it was no big deal. "I guess I was in a hurry to get through it all."
"Oh…" Sakura murmured, a touch of awe in her voice as she processed what he'd said.
"You must be really smart then."
Sasuke chuckled softly, the sound low and almost musical. "Thanks," he said, his tone light. "You seem smart yourself."
Sakura felt a flush of warmth spread across her cheeks at the compliment, and she quickly looked away, embarrassed by how easily he made her blush. "Well, I try," she mumbled, her voice playful but sincere.
The conversation took on a lighter tone for a moment, but Sakura couldn't shake the feeling that there was still something deeper beneath the surface, something Sasuke wasn't saying. She decided to gently steer the conversation back, hoping he would continue to open up.
"So… you've been away for a while," Sakura said, carefully choosing her words. "And you mentioned it's complicated… Is everything okay with your family?"
Sasuke's expression grew more serious, the earlier amusement fading as he considered her question. He took a deep breath, his gaze dropping once more, as if he was bracing himself for what he was about to say.
"I guess you could say my relationship with my family is… strained," he confessed, his voice tinged with a mixture of regret and resignation. "Especially with my dad. He was always busy with work, and… we didn't really see eye to eye on a lot of things."
Sakura listened intently. It was clear that this wasn't something he talked about often, if at all, and she felt honored that he was willing to share it with her. She was basically a stranger to him after all.
"That sounds really hard," she said softly, her empathy evident in her tone. "I can't imagine how that must have been for you."
Sasuke shrugged slightly, as if trying to downplay the significance of it, but the sadness in his eyes betrayed him. "It was… difficult," he admitted, his voice barely above a whisper. "My brother was different, though. He was… everything my dad wanted in a son. But even with him, things were complicated."
Sakura's heart tightened at the mention of his brother, sensing that there was a deeper story there as well. She wanted to ask more, but she didn't want to push him too far. Instead, she offered a small, understanding smile, hoping to ease the tension.
"Oh!" Sakura exclaimed, trying to lift the mood a little. "Then you're on your way to spend time with them, right?"The question hung in the air for a moment, and the atmosphere in the compartment seemed to shift.
Sasuke's expression darkened, and for a brief moment, Sakura wished she could take the words back. His eyes, usually so composed, now looked troubled, as if he was wrestling with something painful. He was silent for a long time, and Sakura's heart began to pound in her chest as she waited for his response.
Had she said something she shouldn't have?
He finally spoke, his voice was so quiet that she had to lean in to hear him. "No… I'm going to attend their funeral."
Sakura's breath caught in her throat, her eyes widening in shock. "Oh my God, Sasuke… I'm so sorry," she whispered, her voice trembling with emotion.
His gaze was distant, focused on something far beyond the confines of the train. "It happened suddenly," he continued, his voice flat, as if he was still processing the reality of it all. "I hadn't seen them personally for very long… and now…"He trailed off, his voice breaking slightly, and Sakura felt tears prick at the corners of her eyes.
She couldn't even begin to imagine the pain he was going through, the weight of the loss he was carrying.
"Sasuke…" she began, but she couldn't find the right words. What could she possibly say that would ease his pain?
For a long moment, they sat in silence, the hum of the train the only sound between them. Sakura could see the tension in Sasuke's body, the way he was holding himself together, and she wished there was more she could do to help.
After what felt like an eternity, Sasuke finally looked at her, his expression softened by the grief in his eyes. "Thank you," he murmured, his voice barely above a whisper.
"For listening… and for being here."
She nodded, offering him a small, sad smile. "of course. You're welcome" Sasuke held her gaze for a moment, something unspoken passing between them—an understanding, a connection that felt deeper than anything they had shared before.
.
For the first time since they had met, she saw a real, genuine smile on his face—small, but full of warmth. She only could return that smile.
He cleared his throat, shifting in his seat. The subtle movement drew her attention back to him, and she noticed the way his expression softened slightly, as if he was trying to push the sadness aside.
"So," Sasuke began, his voice a bit steadier now, though still subdued. "You mentioned that you're going to start at a university. What are you planning to study?"
Sakura was grateful for the change in topic, sensing that Sasuke needed a distraction from his grief. She offered him a small smile, trying to lighten the mood. "Yeah, I'm going to study medicine," she replied, her tone warming with excitement. "I've always wanted to be a doctor, to help people. It just feels like the right path for me."
Sasuke raised an eyebrow, a hint of intrigue flickering in his dark eyes. "Medicine, huh?" he mused, his voice thoughtful. "That's impressive. It takes a lot of dedication."
Sakura nodded, her enthusiasm growing as she spoke about her dreams. "It does, but I'm ready for it. I've always been fascinated by how the human body works, and I want to make a difference in people's lives. Plus, I'm a bit of a perfectionist," she admitted with a small laugh.
"So, I think the challenge will be good for me."
Sasuke's lips curled into a small smile, the first genuine one she'd seen since they'd started talking. "I can see that," he said, his tone warm. "You seem like the kind of person who would excel in a field like that."
Sakura felt a flush of pride at his words, and she couldn't help but return his smile. "Thanks, Sasuke," she said softly, feeling a connection between them that hadn't been there before. "It means a lot to hear you say that."
They sat in a comfortable silence for a moment, the tension from earlier gradually easing. Sakura could tell that Sasuke was still processing his grief, but she was glad that he was trying to focus on something more positive, even if just for a little while.
"So, what about you?" Sakura asked, turning the conversation back to him. "You're studying law, right? What made you choose that?"
Sasuke seemed to consider her question for a moment, his gaze turning introspective. "I guess I've always had a strong sense of justice," he said after a pause. "I've seen a lot of things in my life that felt… unfair. And I want to do something about it, to make a difference where I can."
Sakura listened intently, sensing the passion behind his words. "That's really admirable," she said sincerely. "It takes a lot of strength to want to fight for what's right, especially in a world that can be so complicated."
Sasuke nodded, his expression serious. "It does," he agreed quietly. "But I think it's worth it. If I can help even a few people, it'll be worth all the effort."
Sakura felt a deep respect for him in that moment, recognizing the weight of his words and the conviction behind them. "You will," she said confidently, her voice full of belief. "I have no doubt that you'll make a difference, Sasuke."
As the train began to slow, the familiar sights of her grandparents' town came into view. The moment Sakura had been looking forward to—seeing her grandparents again, enjoying the quiet comfort of the countryside—was finally here. Yet, as the station name was announced, a pang of regret tightened in her chest.
She turned to Sasuke, offering a smile that felt a little too tight, a little too forced. "Well, this is my stop," she said as she stood up.
Sasuke looked at her as if he wanted to say something before sakura suddenly tripped and her bag fell down. Fortunately Sasuke caught her. Looking up she gave him a slight smile.
He helped her to stand stright again and took the bag from the ground and handed it to her.
"Take care, Sasuke," she said as Sasuke only nodded back to her.
Sakura felt a strange emptiness as she stepped off the train, the door closing behind her with a final, definitive click. The station platform was quiet, a stark contrast to the noise in her head.
A realisation hit her. Why hadn't she asked for his number?! What if she never saw him again? The thought sent a shiver through her, a cold realization settling in her stomach like a stone.
She walked toward the bus stop in a daze, her thoughts spinning in circles. She replayed their conversation over and over, searching for some clue, some missed opportunity. How could she have been so stupid? Her heart raced with a sense of urgency, panic even, as the full weight of her mistake hit her. She didn't even know his last name. How could she ever find him now? She was so stupid!
Sakura dropped onto the bench at the bus stop, her mind whirling with frantic thoughts. There had been something there between them, something real, and now it was slipping through her fingers like sand. She felt the sting of tears threatening to spill over but blinked them back, scolding herself for being so dramatic. But wasn't this worth being dramatic about? Meeting someone like Sasuke didn't happen every day. And she had just let him slip away, like an idiot.
She sighed, reaching into her bag for her water bottle, hoping a drink might calm her down. But as her hand brushed against something unfamiliar, she paused. Frowning, she pulled out a small slip of paper, neatly folded and tucked away in her bag. Her breath caught in her throat as she unfolded it, her eyes widening at the sight of the neatly written words:
"Call me
- Sasuke"
For a moment, Sakura just stared at the note, her mind struggling to catch up. When had he slipped this into her bag? How had she not noticed? A dozen questions raced through her mind, but they all dissolved into a flood of relief and unexpected joy. He wanted to stay in touch. He had left her a way to find him, to continue what had begun between them.
Sakura's heart swelled with happiness, a giddy smile breaking across her face. She felt a little ridiculous, sitting there on the bench, grinning like a fool at a scrap of paper. But she didn't care. All the earlier drama, the panic, the sense of loss—it all melted away in an instant.
Sure, it was a little strange that he'd managed to slip it into her bag without her noticing, but she decided not to dwell on that. What mattered was that he wanted to hear from her again. And as she carefully tucked the note back into her bag, Sakura couldn't help but feel that this might just be the start of something special.
The future was still uncertain, and there were still so many things she didn't know about Sasuke. But now, she had a way to find out. And that thought filled her with a sense of excitement and hope that she hadn't felt in a long time.
As the bus pulled up to the stop, Sakura stood up, her heart light, her steps buoyed by the possibilities that lay ahead. The day was suddenly brighter, the world full of potential, and she couldn't wait to see where it would take her next.
"I am soooo telling ino about this."