Author notes: I've been editing this for 2 months. 5000 words. Thank you so much for favorite/following/review the story.
Chapter Summary: This chapter is the heart of the story. Sakura and Neji weaved through their past, clear up old misunderstandings, and in the process, they find their love for each other again.
Prompt: Major fluff and needless to say—shameless smut, you've been warned.
Chapter 12 A Resolved Misunderstanding 2
They made it back to the Hyuuga compound. Thanks to Akamaru's help, they got back without Neji needing to try that taxing space-time jutsu. Inside his quarters, everything had been neatly restored by his retainers, now stood immaculate. On the counter sat a bouquet he'd bought for Sakura, adding a splash of color to the room.
"Do you like the flowers?" Neji asked, his voice soft and a bit hopeful.
Sakura glanced at them but shook her head, concern lining her face. "Neji! Flowers are nice, but right now let's get you cleaned up first," she smiled a little at how calm he seemed despite being exhausted. She guided him toward the bathroom, supporting him with care. She turned on the shower and adjusted it until steam began rising, filling the porcelain tub.
Neji caught her hand and placed it on his waistband with a smirk. "Remember that time at the hot springs? Isn't this what you wanted then?"
And damn it, he was right!
Caught off guard by his cheeky reminder, Sakura blushed and laughed it off. He was spot on! "Yeah, okay, you got me," she admitted.
"Then don't be shy," he encouraged warmly.
Their playful banter made everything feel oddly comforting.
Despite her embarrassment, Sakura wasn't put off by his honesty. She helped Neji out of his clothes and into the tub with gentle hands that spoke of tenderness and care reserved just for him. He leaned back in the water, letting its warmth ease his muscles as he met her eyes with those intense white ones of his.
"You comfortable?" he asked softly as she poured warm water over his hair, letting the suds cascade down his back.
"Yes, thank you," Neji murmured appreciatively.
She smiled back at him while washing away all remnants of their adventures. "It's my pleasure."
The water glistened on his skin like crystals as she worked, highlighting every graceful line of his body—a sight she'd never tire of.
Though they'd been intimate a few times in the past week, bathing this beautiful man still stirred emotions in her that were both comforting and exciting—she could hardly keep herself from touching him!
Her hands moved with practiced ease over his toned body, tracing from his strong shoulders down to the ripple muscles of his abs. As she washed him, her hands drifted over the trail of dark hair leading lower.
As she continued to wash him there, Neji, usually so calm, seemed to change a bit. The moment heated up when he suddenly pulled her into the tub with him. Water sloshing out in a dramatic wave, drenching the ornate tiles below.
"N-Neji!" she yelped, holding onto his broad shoulders. "Look at this mess!"
He wrapped his arms around her waist and nuzzled against her neck affectionately and murmured softly. "Is it wrong that I want you close, Sakura?"
"Don't be naughty," she reprimanded, tapping his nose affectionately but kept an eye on him. "You need your rest, mister!"
"I know… But if you keep washing me there…" He guided her hand below the water to where he was getting harder by the moment. "I'm too tired to do anything now, but if you're up for it..."
Feeling his erection growing beneath her palm, pulsing even, made Sakura blush hard. Flustered, she quickly suggested, "Let's get you dried off and into bed before you catch a cold!"
"You worry too much! Now I want to give you a bath."
Sakura rolled her eyes, though a smile tugged at her lips as he proceeded to undress her. "Fine! But if you catch another cold—"
"You'll nurse me back to health again," he interjected smoothly.
Sakura sighed with affection in her voice. She splashed him playfully as bubbled up inside her.
Since their heartfelt love confessions by the lake, things between them were so different now. The once-reserved Hyuuga was now showed a witty and lively side she ever imagined he could be. His witty remarks had her laughing one minute and blushing the next. It was both thrilling and a little overwhelming! She wondered if her heart might burst from all he made her feel. She cupped his face in her hands and looked into his pale eyes before leaning in to kiss him softly on the lips.
Neji was pretty worn out, but he wasn't about to let that stop him. With a deliberate care, he began washing her pink tresses, then moved on to methodically tending to every curve and part of her body—picking up where they'd left off during their last bath together. He wanted to pamper her wholeheartedly.
"Neji, you're spoiling me, you know," Sakura said into the comfortable quiet.
They exchanged tender smiles as they finished up, cherishing these simple yet intimate moments together. It was times like this that reminded Sakura why she fell for Neji that he was always so attentive and caring.
Once they were done, Sakura stepped out of the tub and wrapped herself in a towel. She tidied up the bathroom while Neji lounged in the tub, watching her with affection. After drying off, they both put on some comfortable pajamas and settled into bed under the soft sheets.
"Thanks for taking care of me."
"Always." Their lips met naturally, his tongue brushing against hers in a gentle, languid kiss that felt sincere and unhurried.
"I'm just going to… rest a bit," Neji mumbled sleepily, pulling her closer like he never wanted to let go.
Sakura ran her fingers through his long hair gently. "Go ahead and rest. I'm not going anywhere. I'll be right here when you wake up."
There was a brief pause before Neji whispered, "Haruno Sakura, would you be my girlfriend?"
A huge smile spread across her face as she quipped between adoring pecks, "I thought you'd never ask. Of course!"
"Goodnight, my Sakura," he murmured softly, placing a kiss on her forehead.
"Goodnight, my Neji," she whispered back as she watched him drift off to sleep. His features softened into relaxation as his breathing slowed into a steady rhythm. Smiling softly, Sakura wrapped an arm around him protectively; he looked so at peace while sleeping.
A sudden knock on their door broke the quiet moment. Carefully slipping out of bed, Sakura answered it and found Hinata standing there. A blush rose to her cheeks as she realized Hinata noticed she was wearing one of her cousin's pajamas—an observation that brought an amused glint to her white eyes. Hinata nodded approvingly, feeling at ease knowing her cousin was in good hands with the pink-haired medic by his side.
Neji lay awake, watching Sakura sleep in the quiet of midnight. Her hair sprawled softly on the pillow, and he felt peaceful just being next to her. His gaze lingered on her, admiring her beauty. They'd gotten home late, and he had initially kept his distance. An undeniable urge surged through him; it wasn't just a physical craving but an inevitable pull toward the woman who meant everything to him.
Gently moving closer, Neji nestled between her legs and began to kiss her softly. His movements were tender, his tongue tracing paths of warmth that made her pulse quicken even in sleep, but grew with increasing intensity as he focused entirely on making her feel good.
Nearly half an hour, Sakura gradually awoke with a soft moan, finding Neji engrossed in his task. A sleepy smile appeared as she surrendered to delicious feelings he was giving. His tongue danced with deliberate care over every sensitive spot he knew by heart, again and again, as waves of ecstasy built steadily within her.
"N-Neji… W-What are you doing?" she asked, half-dreaming.
Neji glanced up briefly with a grin. "Just taking care of my girl," then continued without missing a beat.
"Y-You're… driving me crazy," she murmured, fingers tangling in his hair for support.
He paused playfully, "Want me to stop?"
Her response was breathless. "N-No! Please don't—"
"Mission accomplished then."
"D-Do you—ever think about anything else besides this…?" She teased through labored breaths.
"Not when I'm with you," he quipped smoothly. "Especially not after you barged into my quarters that night."
Sakura blushed at the memory. "W-When did you become such an… expert?"
"Since I realized making you laugh is almost as rewarding as this," he replied cheekily.
"A-Almost—?" She challenged amidst breaths.
He chuckled, pausing briefly. "Almost." His hands and tongue were working magic, and she felt her body respond eagerly.
Who knew Neji had this side—a mix of absurdity and devotion? Sakura just hoped she could keep up with the whirlwind he'd brought into her life. As she arched into his touch, clutching the sheets, she gasped, "Neji, if you keep this up—"
"Good," he coaxed with a teasing command, pumping his hand at a pace that drove her wild. "Let go for me."
She cried out his name as waves of pleasure washed over her. Catching her breath against the pillows, she muttered fondly, "What am I gonna do with you?"
He planted a kiss on her thigh, wiped his mouth clean, and settled beside her. "How about making love to me?"
Her heart skipped a beat at his boldness—they had undeniable chemistry. She could feel his excitement even through his pants that separated them. But despite wanting him just as much, Sakura knew they needed to slow down. "As tempting as that is," she said softly, pressing a hand to his chest to calm him down, "we gotta think about your health first."
"I feel fine."
"You nearly collapsed last night," she reminded firmly. "I think we need to set some boundaries."
"Boundaries?" He raised an eyebrow. "Like not waking you up like this?"
"Exactly!" She laughed but held her ground. "Too much of… this and you'll burn out!"
"I can't guarantee every night will be boundary-friendly!" He teased, kissing her nose affectionately.
"Neji, I'm serious," Sakura insisted. Her eyes met his with genuine concern. "You had a bad headache earlier..."
His expression softened at her worry, and he murmured deeply, touched by her care, "Every ache, every trembling muscle... it's a reminder of you—of us."
Emerald eyes traced his handsome face, her fingers gently running along his jaw. Gone was the tiredness she'd seen earlier; now, there was a spark. She glanced at his lips— soft, smooth, and incredibly kissable. So tempting. But she had more on her mind tonight.
Misunderstandings had kept them apart for too long. Tonight felt different, like they might finally clear the air. Sakura looked into Neji's deep lilac pool, searching for honesty.
Neji recognized it—a look calling for honesty and patience. He steeled himself to behave, and he delivered just that. "Ask me anything, and I'll tell you," he said, ready to be open.
"So, when did you first notice me... and love me?" Sakura asked with a mix of curiosity and insistence.
"Are you sure you're ready to hear this?"
"Absolutely. I want to hear it all!" Sakura replied eagerly, her eyes sparkling with anticipation, her curiosity bubbling over.
Neji studied her face for a moment, searching his mind for the perfect starting point. A grin spread across his face as a memory surfaced. "Alright then," he chuckled, "but don't say I didn't warn you."
"Yes, please!" She leaned in closer as he began.
"Remember at the bathhouse when you slipped and landed right on top of me? We got caught in those towels."
"Oh god, I thought you'd want to forget that forever!" Sakura laughed, turning red.
"I pushed you off so fast because you looked mortified!" Neji laughed too. "I thought you'd never talk to me again." Sakura wiped her tears away as their laughter faded, he continued, "And that night in the rain?"
Sakura's smile growing once again. "When I found you training alone like some lunatic?" she teased.
Neji's smile widened. "You joined in and sparred with me until we couldn't move anymore. You knocked me down more times than I'd like to admit and stood over me with that triumphant stance I couldn't forget."
"Remember that time I tried to help you up, and you ended up dragging me into the mud?"
Neji laughed. "You were a tough one that night," he continued. "That's when I started seeing you differently."
Sakura's eyes sparkled with nostalgia.
"And all those team gatherings—remember? We'd just talk for hours about everything and nothing. We chats about life goals, worst fears, and favorite restaurants. You name it. You said something simple but profound once—that's when I knew I could be myself around you."
"Guess I have a knack for making even the stoic Hyuuga open up!"
"It was after carrying you back to the tent during the third wave of battles. Something clicked for me then," he admitted.
"You did? Wait, I slept through all that?"
Neji nodded. "Right after, things went sideways—another attack hit hard. You disappeared in the chaos, and I was frantic trying to find you."
"Sasuke got to me first," she recalled with mixed feelings.
Neji nodded again, "He did."
"You were always there, weren't you? Always watching out for me. I didn't see it back then..." Sakura met his gaze, a new understanding dawning on her. "I was too caught up in everything else to see what was right in front of me." That moment had been pivotal—it was when she decided to start anew with Sasuke. It often felt like fate enjoyed meddling with her heart.
"Didn't need to," Neji shrugged. "I just wanted you safe and happy. That's when I realized how much more than a comrade you were to me."
Sakura listened closely as his words painted a picture of their past.
"And then there was that look on your face when I... well, when everything almost ended during the war," he trailed off.
Sakura turned stone at the memory. "Don't remind me! I was furious at how selfless you were—you didn't even hesitate!"
"Did I ever tell you how adorable you are when you're furious?" Neji teased gently.
Sakura playfully tapped his chest, then softened her touch, careful not to actually hurt him—her punches could be lethal. "It's not funny!" she said, still a bit annoyed. "I'm not over it yet," she paused, urging him on, "So when did it become love for you?"
"Remember those days during my rehab?"
"Of course I do. I was there the whole time," she replied.
"Those days, hearing your voice kept me going. Your visits meant everything. But every time you mentioned Uchiha... it stung a little. I thought it was just me being competitive. Well, a typical Hyuuga trait," he chuckled.
Sakura listened closely, her heart racing as she realized Neji had been feeling this way all along.
"At first, I thought I was just jealous—not of him but of what he had with you. By the end of rehab, I knew it wasn't just admiration—I'd fallen for you."
Sakura's heart fluttered at his words, each moment vividly recounted by Neji himself. His voice, a comfort melody, pouring out his heart in a tenderly bittersweet way. It was a series of small moments that grew over time, not one big revelation.
She leaned in and kissed him softly, a gesture that said more than words ever could. Pulling back slightly, she frowned in realization. "Is that why you went along with that arranged marriage?"
Neji nodded slowly, meeting her gaze. "Seeing you with him or just imagining it—felt like an invisible thread tying you to him. Letting go seemed easier than complicating things more with my feelings. I buried myself in mission and duty, telling myself those things mattered more than what my heart wanted."
Sakura nodded as everything fell into place. "Neji, I need to tell you something." Her eyes met his encouragingly. "Sasuke and I tried again but drifted apart after a year. At first, I thought he was all I wanted. But being around you changed my perspective... Being with you feels like home. Sasuke will always be part of my past... but he's not who I want in my future."
"You can't imagine how long I've waited to hear that," Neji said, his eyes bright with hope.
Sakura hesitated, shadows of doubt flickering across her face. "I was at that engagement party... I saw the kiss… you with the Otsutsuki heiress."
Neji saw the hurt in her eyes and wished he could undo it. "That night was just politics," he explained. "The kiss meant nothing," he tried a faint smile to lighten her mood. "But hey, at least it got your attention."
"Don't joke about this, Neji," Sakura said softly, still hurt.
"I'm sorry you saw it. The kiss wasn't real, but my feelings for you are," he reassured her. "Don't overthink it, I've always wanted you and only you. Is that why you left Konoha to Suna two years ago?"
Sakura nodded, their past hanging in the air between them. She reached out and took his hand. "All this time... why didn't we say anything?" Sakura asked, tears of happiness welling up.
Neji wiped them away with his thumb gently. "Sometimes words aren't enough, but they are now." They sat on the bed in a comfortable silence, grateful for a second chance. "You know," Neji began, glancing around at their shared bed, "I never thought I'd end up here with you. In bed like this."
"Thank you for sharing with me," Sakura said, her heart was full.
"Got all the answers you needed? Or should I share more secrets?"
"I might need a few more secrets," he teased.
He chuckled and playfully nibbled her ear. "Let's just say my right hand's been pulling some serious overtime since you walked back into my life," he confessed with a wink. "Consider it proof of how much I missed you."
Sakura giggled, feeling light and carefree for the first time in ages. "Oh, Kami-sama!" her cheeks turning pink. "Are you serious?"
"Dead serious," Neji responded smoothly. "Take it as a compliment."
Emboldened by his words, Sakura took a breath and confessed, "Well, you should know how badly I wanted to jump you that night healing you on your couch."
Neji's grin widened. "Oh, I knew," he said knowingly. "I was waiting for you to make your move."
They both laughed, their joy filling the room with warmth and ease.
"So, how about we make up for lost time?" Neji murmured as he inched closer, their breaths mingled. His eyes locked with hers, both charged with piercing intensity that electrified the space between them.
Sakura needed no more encouragement. She felt like they were the only two people in the world at that moment. She kissed him deeply, savoring every sensation. He had asked for her love, and she was ready to give.
The kiss began gentle but quickly intensified, their tongues dancing in a rhythm of mutual discovery. It wasn't about dominance; it was about enjoying every moment together. Neji let her lead the kiss before matching her pace with equal enthusiasm.
Her hands urgently wandered over his body, feeling every muscle beneath his shirt. Without breaking their kiss, her fingers slipped under his waistband, feeling his pubic hair before wrapping around him gently, sensing his firmness grow under her touch.
Neji groaned softly, each stroke bringing him to full arousal, desire building between them. He whispered playfully into her ear, "Need me naked now?"
Sakura nodded excitedly, their clothes discarded in a pile on the floor with newfound urgency. Neji pulled out boxes of family planning from his nightstand and chuckled, "I might've gone overboard at the pharmacy. The cashier gave me this look like I was desperate."
Sakura laughed, her eyes twinkling. "Well, it's about time you stocked up!"
"Didn't want any interruptions, you know?" Neji smirked, flipping his long hair back with a smooth flick as he tore open a foil packet and rolling it down his length. His confidence wavered for a moment. "If only you want kids with me, they might have the caged bird seal."
Seeing this side of him—the usually composed Neji letting his guard down—moved Sakura deeply. She saw the true man beneath: open, fearless, and free from doubt.
"Neji," Sakura said softly, lifting his chin so he looked at her. Her gaze was full of warmth and understanding. "I'm here because I love you—all of you. You're so much more than any seal or mark could ever define. If we have kids one day... they'll know how amazing their dad is."
Neji's eyes softened as he took in her words, love practically glowing through him. "You'd really want to have kids with me someday?"
Her eyes glistening with tears of joy, she giggled softly through her emotions and said, "Of course I do, you silly man."
"Let's make this a night to remember," he said, glided his tip towards her entrance.
"I'm all for it."
After sharing a tender smile, Neji nudged aside her pink locks with his nose before kissing her deeply and entering her slowly. Their bodies pressed together as their breaths mingled in the heat of their lovemaking. Sakura gasped softly at the contact, wrapping her arms around him, welcoming the intimacy as he continued to stretch her, filling her completely with love, joining their bodies.
Neji pulled out, then slid in again and again, giving her time to adjust to his size before gradually pumping harder and deeper with unyielding thrusts. He moved with such precision that she could feel every inch of him, savoring the sensation her man gave her. Hyuuga Neji, perfection embodied. His white eyes were intense and full of affection. His rhythm—an exquisite blend graceful and relentless, yet tender, as if pouring love into every movement. His burning lovemaking showed no signs of slowing down.
"Oh god—" Sakura moaned as she climaxed.
"Best sex ever?" he asked with an unguarded smile, leaning back on his pillows, looking all too pleased with himself.
The cherry blossom lay wonderfully crumpled beside him, breathless but blissfully content. It was undeniably the most incredible sex she'd ever had—no contest.
"D-Definitely the best," she said, completely satisfied. "You know… For someone who's usually so stoic, you're pretty expressive tonight."
"Is that a complaint?"
"Not at all," she replied with adoring eyes.
"So," Neji propped himself up on one elbow with a mischievous look, "ready for more?"
"You do realize it's four in the morning?" she asked, giving him a gentle shove. "Aren't you even a little tired?"
"Four in the morning is prime time, Sakura! I'm just getting started."
She shook her head amusedly; somehow the man got more energetic as the time went on. Maybe it was a common trait of Team 3. Sakura was delightfully exhausted and sore, yet she loved every second of it.
"Okay... I think you can do better this round!" She giggled, rolling over onto her stomach and draping herself across his naked body for a lingering kiss as he stroked himself, getting ready for second round.
"Better than my best? Let's not sleep at all," Neji easily flipped them over so she was beneath him again, nearly sending them tumbling off the bed in their playful wrestle. With that, their lovemaking started all over again as he captured her mouth in a passionate kiss.
Sakura giggled, pressing her lips to Neji's once more. "I could definitely get used to mornings like this," she said, her voice light and airy.
Their playful banter hid years of unspoken affection, now finally out in the open. The rhythmic sound of their love echoed softly through his sleeping quarters. The room was filled with the warmth of their closeness and the lingering scents of their night together. As dawn broke, they held each other tightly, basking in the afterglow, nuzzled into each other before sleep finally claimed them.
By morning, Neji woke with the sun streaming in. Sakura lay beside him, snuggled close with one arm draped over his bare chest, her leg resting over his. He gently stroked her hair as she stirred awake.
"Good morning, handsome," she murmured with a loving smile. He returned her greeting with that breathtaking smile that sent warmth to her toes. What a sight to wake up to! The most beautiful man on earth, her man. Bathed in the morning light, his undeniable handsomeness was accentuated. His usually white eyes seemed an ethereal shade of lilac today. His hair was adorably disheveled, and she was sure hers looked the same. She could spend all day just staring at him!
"Morning, beautiful," he replied softly, running his thumb gently over her lips.
They were tangled in the sheets—evidence of their torrid lovemaking. Being with the Hyuuga prodigy was enticing—they could be bantering, kissing, love making, or simply lying in silence. Sakura sat up, pulling the covers back to reveal more of Neji's sculpted body. The white sheet pooling just below his waist, highlighting his chiseled abs, narrow hips, and the marks she'd left behind. She couldn't help but grin.
"Checking out your handiwork?" Neji propped himself up on his elbows, giving her that signature charming smirk. The rosy bite marks and nail scratches across his torso, she was the one responsible for them!
"Totally," Sakura laughed. "I'm proud you're mine!" She felt his hand squeeze her waist playfully. "We should get moving," she announced with regret. "We've got that appointment today."
Neji frowned a little as she pressed her thumb on his forehead, smoothing the furrows in his brow.
"Alright…" Neji conceded, reluctantly untangling himself from her embrace. "Just so you know, I could spend all day in bed with you."
He tossed aside the sheets and stood up, scooping Sakura into his arms effortlessly. The pinkette wrapped her legs around him and dusted his lips with hers, smiling goofily at him as he walked them toward the bathroom to start the day. What started as a quick peck soon had them reconsidering their plans to leave bed at all.
End notes: There you go the misunderstanding resolved after 2 years of posting this story. Hope this chapter make you feel all warm and fuzzy! Don't forget to favorite, follow and review!