Update: Chapter8 re-edit.
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 Notes: 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," Hinata reassured her. "There's just one thing... The wedding party dance. 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!" Sakura sighed in relief. "I'm not exactly known for my grace on the dance floor." Then it hit her. "Wait, you mean… Neji?"
Sakura shot up from the couch in the Hokage's office, her eyes widened, both curious and slightly nervous about what she'd gotten herself into.
Hinata giggled. "Yes. He's quite the dancer in our clan, you know. Very well-rounded than you think!"
This explained why the Hyuugas were so polite and refined. It seemed they took etiquette seriously. But dance lessons with Neji? That was going to be interesting.
"Hold on, shouldn't he be practicing with his fiancée? You know, that Otsutsuki heiress he got engaged to two summers ago?"
"Oh, about that... The engagement's off. They split up about six months ago." She paused, a mischievous glint in her eye. "But hey, their loss is your gain, right? Now you've got yourself a top-notch dance instructor!" She winked. "That's actually part of why I invited you to stay over. Makes it easier for you to catch up with him for lessons and all..."
"Hinata! Are you playing matchmaker?" To her own surprise, Sakura found herself not minding the idea.
"Is it that obvious?" Hinata chuckled.
Hinata couldn't help but think Sakura and Neji were perfect for each other, even if they didn't see it themselves. Sakura's vibrant energy seemed to balance out her cousin's serious nature in the best way. Hinata had noticed how her usually quiet cousin would soften around Sakura, and how her emerald eyes would light up when they'd geek out about medical jutsu together.
Their once-close friendship seemed so natural, yet somehow, it had begun to cool off, and Hinata couldn't figure out why. Perhaps a misunderstanding left unresolved? Whatever the reason, it didn't sit right with her to see two people she cared about missing out on what could be something great. If destiny wasn't going to step up, maybe she could give it a little push.
"You've been not-so-subtly mentioning your cousin all day," the pinkette said with a knowing look.
Hinata blushed. "I just thought... well, you two seemed so good together before. He's been so wrapped up in missions lately. Maybe you could bring some life back into him? You two used to be so close. I always wondered if there might be something more. I never understood why you two drifted apart."
Sakura sighed, a hint of sadness in her voice. "I'm not sure either. But Hinata, are you sure this is a good idea? Especially considering he just ended his engagement…"
Despite her words, a small flutter of excitement stirred in her chest. Her mind wandered to thoughts of the charming Hyuuga, and a small smile played on her lips.
"Sometimes, the best way to heal is to open your heart to new possibilities. Who knows? Maybe this is a chance for you two to reconnect, whether as friends or something more."
"Maybe you're right. Thanks for looking out for us, 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 g-going?!" Sakura asked as Hinata began dragging her away from the Hokage office.
Naruto slumped in his chair after the women left, letting out a tired sigh. Being Hokage was no walk in the park. His Hokage office was a constant whirlwind of activity, with an endless to-do list of meetings and paperwork.
Hinata's matchmaking plan for his two close friends had caught his interest. He thought back to the pinkette turning down Sasuke - a shocker, but somehow it felt right. His pink-haired teammate had grown up, and maybe her feelings had too.
Then there was Neji. The Hyuuga prodigy had really grown on him over the years. Naruto still felt humbled by Neji's selfless act of saving his life during the war. As he pondered the idea, he realized the man's calm demeanor and wisdom might be just what Sakura needed.
Naruto chuckled to himself, surprised at his own conclusion. Who knew he'd become such a fan of this unexpected pairing?
Sakura and Hinata entered the town's most prestigious bridal boutique, a place that catered to powerful clans and nobles. Crystal chandeliers cast a soft, warm glow across the showroom, while soft, enchanting melodies creating an atmosphere of refined luxury. The upcoming Hokage's wedding demanded grandeur, befitting Naruto's status and the esteemed clan he was joining.
As they approached the staff to try on Sakura's custom gown, a senior stylist and her two assistants guided them to an exclusive dressing room reserved for the Hyuuga family.
In the main hall, three exquisite wedding gowns were on display. The center piece, was Hinata's wedding gown, a soft-gold gown, sparkled with thousands of tiny rhinestones. Its semi-transparent bodice and row of color-matched buttons trailing down the back left Sakura in awe.
The bridal consultant presented Sakura with a lovely lavender bridesmaids' dress. To her surprise, Hinata revealed another custom-made dress in deep burgundy, with Sakura's name on the hanger. Excited, they urged the pink-haired kunoichi to try on both stunning dresses.
Emerging from the fitting room in the first lavender dress, Sakura looked radiant. The halterneck design elegantly accentuated her shoulders, while a pair of gold heels added by an assistant perfectly complemented her outfit.
"Sakura-chan, you look stunning!" Hinata exclaimed. "The dress enhances your natural beauty!"
"I'm glad you think so. It feels nice and comfortable too," Sakura smiled, pleased.
"Haruno-sensei, the dress looks amazing on you!" an assistant chimed in.
Returning to the dressing room, Sakura soon reappeared in the burgundy dress, nervously biting her lip. "Um, what do you think of this one?" She asked the Hyuuga heiress, gesturing to the daring slit that revealed a generous portion of her thigh.
Sensing her apprehension, Hinata offered immediate reassurance, "You look fantastic, Sakura! Don't worry about showing a little skin – you're absolutely glowing!"
The pinkette loved how the body-con dress hugged her curves. The neckline dipped low, hinting at her cleavage. The rich crimson color was her favorite. She felt glamorous yet a bit exposed.
The bridal stylist chimed in, "I wholeheartedly agree with Hinata-sama. This dress exudes a subtle allure. It's perfectly acceptable to step outside your comfort zone and wear something with confidence. I must say, Haruno-sensei, you look quite striking in this ensemble."
Hinata added, "Indeed, red suits you exceptionally well, Sakura-chan. It's truly beautiful on you!"
Encouraged by their supportive comments, Sakura twirled in front of the mirror, her confidence growing. She smiled at her reflection, feeling ready to turn heads.
Expressing her gratitude, Sakura thanked them both for their kind words, particularly acknowledging Hinata for alleviating the stress of gown shopping.
As Sakura changed back into her own clothes, her attention was drawn to two impeccably tailored men's suits hanging nearby.
Hinata followed her gaze. "Oh, those are for Neji-niisan," she explained. "We picked them last month to match Naruto-kun's groom's suits. He looked dashing in them!"
Sakura found herself unable to dispel the mental image of Neji in those suits. The thought of him in the white suit, exuding elegance and sophistication, or in the black tuxedo, emanating charm and allure, made her heart flutter.
Hinata couldn't help but smile as she remembered the day her cousin accompanied her and her future husband to the bridal shop. It was perfect timing – he just happened to be in town. While Naruto was busy trying on groom's suits, Neji, ever the dutiful cousin and best man, found himself roped into modeling groomsman options.
The boutique was brimming with stylish choices, each more dapper than the last. Despite not being the groom, Hyuuga Neji became an unexpected showstopper. Fresh off a breakup and newly single, he'd suddenly become Konoha's most eligible bachelor. Seeing him all dressed up in a tuxedo was rare and strangely mesmerizing.
As he tried on different suits, the boutique assistants swarmed him like bees to honey. Their hands seemed to have a mind of their own during measurements, lingering a tad too long on his toned physique and occasionally venturing dangerously close to off-limits areas. It was too up-close and personal for his comfort zone typically allowed! His white eyes darted to her, screaming for a rescue as the boutique staff cooed over his 'perfect proportions.'
Sakura noticed the shop girls practically swooning at the mention of his name. She figured they were either impressed by his commanding presence or his chiseled abs that had them so worked up. Either way, she felt a twinge of jealousy bubbled up inside her.
Leaving the bridal shop, Sakura felt exhausted. The journey from Suna had been long, and trying on bridesmaid dresses had drained her last bit of energy. All she wanted was to crash and relax.
"Let's get you recharged before our girls' night out," Hinata said with a knowing smile.
End Note: 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.