#redcameleon!writes

[redcameleon]

SSM 2020 Day 10

Prompt: Colors of You and Me

Summary: Sasuke finally lets love back into his life as colors begin to fill his once black and white world. Contains smut.  

Rating: M

A/N: This was inspired by OneRepublic’s song “Colors”. Italic text is the lyrics.

Redefining their relationship definitely took time. Unsure of what the future holds for the Uchiha, Sasuke suddenly questions the purpose of life. The purpose of his life. The shinobi world has corrupted him, damaged him, tainted him. Tainted all of them. They are no longer those naïve genins they used to be. Having experienced pain and suffering has brought forth new perspectives in life, and in their purpose as shinobi. Now the question for him lays, what’s next?

As he is once again lost in his way, not knowing where to go or what path to take, Sakura once again embraces him and pours him with her love. She lets her walls crumble again, never letting him go, she lets herself love him entirely.

If there’s one thing Sasuke has learned, it’s that he’s loved. Loved by his late parents, by his late brother, by his comrades, and by her.

Once again, Sasuke’s life is not so black and white. Once again, she is beginning to add colors.

She said, do you see me in black and white Do you need me every day and night I said, I don't wanna dance with another

Finally, he lets his walls crumble for her. Finally, he lets her in his heart. Emotions wash over him as he finally lets her see how vulnerable he is.

We could feel this darkness with each other 'Cause when I look at you I see colors

He cups her face, and lets his lips brush over hers before he closes the gap. She closes her eyes as she returns the kiss, lips moving in unison. She snakes her arms around his shoulder, drawing him closer. Her hands find his hair as she lets her fingers tangle in his strands. They break away, gasping for air before Sasuke trails wet kisses from her cheek, down to her neck.

Sakura lets out a grunt as she tugs the hem of his shirt. Getting her hint, he lifts her shirt over his head and lets her unbuckle his pants. He moves to lift her shirt over her head, skillfully unclasping her bra as she gets rid of her shorts.

He takes his time to admire her, admire the delicate skin. He notices the blush painted over her cheeks as they stare into each other’s gazes. He lies her down on the mattress, catching her mouth in another kiss. His hands grip her wrists, pinning her to the bed when he starts moving south. He peppers wet kisses on her chest, hearing her moans and whispers of his name.

When I look at you I see colors

He slides her panties off, and she hisses when she feels the cold air hit her. He lets his fingers run through her folds, eliciting a squeal from her. He plunges a digit inside, watching her reaction. Sakura shuts her eyes as she feels his finger in her. He slowly moves before adding another digit, eliciting another squeal.

“Sasuke-kun!” She grips his shoulder as he smirks. Soon enough he starts thrusting his fingers at a pace, watching her squirm underneath. He moves his other hand to steady her down to the mattress. When he sees her edging, his thumb finds the bundle of nerves and rubs it in circles, making her moan in pleasure, his name tumbling from her lips.  

Sakura feels herself clenching when the knot in her stomach starts to build. He thrusts a couple more times before she finally climaxes from his fingers. He rides her off her high before catching her lips in another kiss. She pulls him closer to him, feeling his hard member on her stomach.

She said do you see me in shades of grey Do you need me like I need you that way I said I don't wanna play with another

Sasuke can’t fight his urge when he starts to align himself at her entrance. He breaks their kiss and looks into her, fire filling his eyes. She grabs his face and nods before he slips himself in her. She throws her head back, hissing in pain.

He doesn’t dare to move as he examines her face. His heart aches when he sees her in pain.

“I’ll be slow.” He reassures her. She looks at him with the same passion and nods for him to move. His movement starts out slow as they take their time to feel each other. He captures her mouth in another kiss, lips moving slow. He pours out his love into the kiss, touching her in the gentlest way. He runs his hand along her sides as he lets her hands trail his chest and stomach.

He feels a knot starting to form as his climax is near. He starts to quicken his pace, his gaze never leaving hers. She feels pain now turning to pleasure. The room is filled with moans and labored breathing, them whispering each other’s names.

We could feel this cryin' with each other 'Cause when I look at you I see colors

She can feel her climax nearing as she wraps her arms around his torso, pulling him closer. He senses her desperation and starts to quicken his pace, hands gripping her waist. She lets him move, wrapping her legs around his waist, drawing him closer. He hisses when he feels her nails dig to his back. With a few more thrusts, they both reach their climaxes, as he empties himself inside her, riding them from their high.

Every time I look at you lately I see colors that are changing

“I love you.” Sasuke rests his forehead on hers. He looks at her with the gentlest stare, eyes filled with so much emotions that he can feel his throat tightening. He notices how her eyes glisten as she returns with a look just as soft and so full of love. He wonders how she can love him so much.

“I love you, too.”

Every time I look at you lately I see colors 

Now it’s time for him to return the love.

[southsidestory]

Hello!! First of all, I looovee your writings! I remember finding this account 5 years ago and absolutely lovee all of your work! I also remember I started reading Valley of the End 5 years ago but only managed to read it up to chapter 5. I'm planning on reading it again from the beginning :))) On that note, will you writing more chapters for TVOTE??

Thank you @redcameleon!! Yes, I will *definitely* be writing more chapters of TVOTE. Like... a lot more chapters apparently lmao. I did a bunch of outlining today and it’s gonna get quite a bit longer than I expected. But the planning is going well, I have a clear direction, and I’m very enthused about the story. My goal is to complete it by the end of the year, but considering that it’s only at 70k words right now and it’s probably gonna be 150k+ I might not accomplish that lol

Wish me luck! Thank you for this sweet message. <3

[hermadnessmac]

alsooooo, im reading you "chidorilator" fic and AAAARHHHH IM SO EXCITED TO SEE WHAT HAPPENS NEXT. im honestly debating whether i should read them up till the 4th chapter or wait until all of them are done. i also started reading it 2 years ago but then reread it again today. for the ending (i noticed u posted on tumblr that youre not sure about the ending) you shuld be free to choose. maybe a little make out session wud be nice tho, doesnt have to be having sex. but thats just a consideration :)

Ahahahaha Chidorilator. Until this review, I wasn’t really sure people even still remembered it.  Which was actually a nice kick in the ass. As of today, all the chapters have been edited! (and chapter 5 has been finished and should be up within the next couple of minutes) Glad you like it! I really like Sakura’s character in this one, not gonna lie. I kind of like writing a “broken” (read: angsty) Sakura.

And your comment on not needing a sex scene was really helpful. I agree, and I’ve lowered the overall rating of the story. It should have a nice fluffy ending, still :)

[redcameleon]

SSM 2020 Masterlist

Hey yall! Here is a masterlist of all my entries for Sasusaku Month 2020! Enjoy~

Stuck With You

Gravity

Sleeping Soundly

Drink Me Under

Arrivals

Constellations

Clear Skies

Let’s Play Pretend

Around the Table

Colours of You and Me

Feathers

Gimme Shelter

Miso Soup

Battle Scars

Recovery

Empty Sheets

Blessings

Curses

Running Wild

Missing Piece

Lonely Coast

Distance from Me to You

Something Beautiful

Once in a Blue Moon

Small Victories

Something Sweet

Symptoms

Antidote

Falling Petals

Only One

Free prompt

Completed: 31/31

Last updated: Sept 5, 2020.

[redcameleon]

SSM 2020 Day 14

Prompt: Battle Scars

Summary: Sasuke admires Sakura’s battle scars.

Rating: M? no sex, just touching and kissing.

The night is cool. The window is slightly ajar, letting the night breeze caress their skins after a love making session.

Sasuke had just been back from a long trip, and they have been apart for too long-eight months and fifteen days to be exact but who’s counting.

Feet tangled, bodies merely inches apart, they take each other’s forms in, the only light coming from the moon shining above.

“I missed you.” Sakura breathes. Sasuke brings her chin up in a kiss. Their lips fit perfectly with each other.

“I’m here.” He brings her closer and traces his hands on her petite form as she rubs circles on his chest.

His hand lands on a particularly large scar adorning her hip. He rubs it with his thumb, feeling the rough skin underneath.

“Where did you get this?” Curiously, Sasuke asks.

“Sasori. Grandma Chiyo and I were battling him when we were retrieving Gaara. He pierced a sword right through me.” Sasuke’s grip tightens on her. He knows at that time, he was still with Orochimaru. He hates, despises seeing his loved ones get hurt. He knows that a ninja’s life will always be on the brink of death. Nonetheless, he would do anything to protect her. For the woman in his arms is his home now, and he can’t afford losing it again.

Sasuke lets out a sigh before moving his hand up to her back, feeling another long strip of a different texture that spans from her lower back to her mid back.

“That one’s from a mission way back. I was retrieving a stolen scroll. The enemy managed to injure me with his sword.” Regret. The only thing that is going through his mind at that moment. If only he had been with them, he would’ve been able to protect her. He closes his eyes in deep thought.

“Sasuke-kun.” Sakura brings her hand to his cheek. Warmth spread through him and he opens his eyes to meet with a pair of shining emeralds.

“It’s okay.” As if she knows what’s on his mind, she always finds the right words to say to him.

“I’m sorry.” Sasuke looks to the side. He feels too ashamed to look at her in the eyes. Sakura hates seeing him like this. They’ve worked out all the bad in their relationship, and have taken out all the skeletons from their closet. Sakura’s thumb brushes his lower lip.

“Sasuke-kun, look at me.” Sasuke shifts his gaze towards her. “It’s okay. What’s done is done. But just know that I can protect myself too.” Sasuke snakes his arm around her. Sakura burries her face in his chest, wrapping her arm around his torso.

“I know.” Sasuke doesn’t deny the fact that Sakura is a strong kunoichi. She’s grown so much stronger since they were kids, and he can’t be prouder.

They stay that way, embraced by each other’s arms, in their safe zones, where no one can hurt them.

The night feels tranquil, and just like his mind, Sasuke can finally feel at peace. Feel at home.

They let the sound of the wind and the crickets lull them to sleep.

[redcameleon]

SSM 2020 Day 11

Prompt: Feathers

Summary: The day Sasuke finally confesses his feelings to Sakura, he’s never felt so free.

Rating: K+.

“What did you just say?” Sakura asks again, trying to make sure she didn’t hear wrong.

“You heard me.” Sakura’s smile spreads from ear to ear. Oh, she clearly heard him loud and clear. She just needs to hear it again. She nods a few times.

“Say it again.” Sasuke chuckles at her.

.

.

It’s been a lazy day. Sasuke has just finished running some errands when he decides he’d take it easy the rest of the day. He sits on the couch, eyes wide awake, staring at the ceiling.

It’s the most peaceful he’s ever felt in a long time. He looks over to the table on the side and lingers on a photo frame. It’s their first picture together as Team 7. Sakura gleefully smiled in the middle while Naruto and Sasuke were brooding beside her, and then there’s Kakashi standing behind them with his hands on their heads. He smiles at the fond memory.

It didn’t use to be this fond. He remembers darker times when all he ever wanted was to tear that photograph into pieces and burn it. His gaze lingers at the pinkette and he thinks at how she managed to grow up to be such a fine warrior, woman, friend, companion.

In all honesty, he’s never been so glad to be proven wrong. The life he chose, the life he thought was the only path, turned out to be his biggest mistake. And he has those people in that photograph to thank.

Now, he can’t imagine what life would be like without them. He hates to admit it, but he’s grown to enjoy their presence over time after the war. He’s began to build his life with them in the picture.

Now, there’s just one thing that’s still weighing him down. Guilt.

He’s always been on the receiving end. He believes he’s never done anything to make them happy. He’s heard Sakura say how much she cares about him, how much she loves him a million times. But has he ever said it back to her? He only assumes she knows how much he cares about her. He never thought it was necessary to make that explicit. After all actions speak louder than words. Right?

Heck it’s the only way he’s been raised. No words of affirmation. Even his brother, the only thing he ever did to show his love was through a poke on the forehead.

He feels worry starts to pool at the pit of his stomach.

Being a shinobi has only made him realize that life has an expiration date. You’ll never know when you get to spend time with the people you love. Your life can always end right there and then. There are countless people out there who are not as lucky as them. Who had their life snatched away at such a young age.

He’s not going to take this second chance for granted. Until he’s told her how much he loves her, he’ll always be filled with regret.

.

.

He doesn’t know why three simple words can be so heavy. It’s not supposed to be this hard.

They’ve just finished dinner and Sakura is off doing the dishes in the kitchen. Sasuke stands at the arc that leads to the living room, leaning against the wall. He admires every part of the woman standing in front of her. He takes in her figure, her beauty. All his to admire.

“Sakura.”

“Hm?” Sakura hums in response. Her attention still focused to the task in front of her, the sound of running water filling the room. He comes up behind her and puts his arm around her waist. He feels her lean back to him as he buries his face in the nook of her neck, taking in her scent.

He opens his mouth to speak but nothing comes out. It’s like something is lodged in his throat.

“Nothing.” Pathetic.

He’ll try again another time.

Getting ready for bed, Sakura sits on her side of the bed with a book in her hand. Sasuke steps out of the bathroom, turning off the lights behind him before he takes his place on the bed and shifts to lay his head on the pillow.

Sakura sets her book at the nightstand before turning off the lights. She shifts to a comfortable position, pulling the covers over her torso.

“Night Sasuke-kun.” She turns to her side, facing him. Sakura might be ready for bed, but Sasuke’s mind is still as alert as ever. He keeps staring at the ceiling, heart beating faster than a train.

Should I say it now? She deserves to hear it.

“I love you.” Heart doing somersaults, he half hopes she didn’t hear it, but half hopes she did.

Apparently, she did hear it, because now she’s propping herself up on the elbow and reaching to the lamp to turn it back on.

“What did you just say?” Sakura asks again, trying to make sure she didn’t hear wrong. With the dim light from the lamp, she can now take a good look of his face.

“You heard me.” Sakura’s smile spreads from ear to ear. Oh, she clearly heard him loud and clear. She just needs to hear it again. She nods a few times.

“Say it again.” Sasuke chuckles at her. He turns to his side and looks her straight in the eye.

“I love you.” He makes sure he articulates every syllable. Her smile still in place, she leans forward cupping his cheeks and taking his lips in hers.

He places his free hand on her waist, trailing up her side and landing on her cheek, pulling her closer. He relishes in the way their lips fit together. He’s always loved her and now he finally made sure she hears him say it.

Now that he finally says it. And he’s never felt so light. Light as a feather. Like all the burden has just been lifted off his shoulders. He’ll be sure to say it more often.

[redcameleon]

SSM 2020 Day 6

Prompt: Constellations

Summary: Sarada learns how to read the stars from Sasuke.

Rating: K.

A/N: Disclaimer: I can’t read stars lol. Also, I’ve always wanted to write more papa!sasuke.

“That’s called Orion’s belt.” Sasuke points at the three stars lined up together.

“Wow! What else what else? Show me more!” Giggling, Sarada can’t contain her awe when she looks up to the sky adorned with billions of stars.

“You see that one, that’s Ursa Minor.” Sasuke traces his finger in the air, seemingly drawing an imaginary line between the bright lights.

“Woah.. Papa’s amazing!” To little six-year-old Sarada, anything her father does is inspiring. Sasuke revels at her daughter’s reactions whenever Sasuke passes on a piece of knowledge from his experience. He wants to give her the world and all of its wisdom, to make sure she doesn’t travel the same path he did, to make sure she doesn’t stray into the darkness like he did. And thankfully just like her parents, she’s always the eager one to learn.

Sarada shifts to an upright position, crossing her legs and facing her father who is lying on the terrace, hand cushioning his head.

“Tell me more stories Papa!”

“Hm? What kind?” He shifts to the side, propping his head on his elbow to face her.

“Like when you were travelling! Or when you saved the world from that big genjutsu!” She lifts her hands up in the air, making grand gestures. She’s become old enough to know of the last war, and even though Sasuke and Sakura didn't tell her all the explicit details, sparing them for later, she already knows enough.

“But it’s your bedtime, Sarada.” Sasuke says, voice as soft as feather.                      

“Aww! But I wanna hear more of your awesome stories!” She gives him a pout, that pout that’s always managed to melt him. And suddenly Sasuke just can’t say no.

“Okay. Just one bedtime story.” Sasuke shifts to stand, holding out his hand for his daughter before they walk to her bedroom.

Tucking in the blanket around her, Sarada shifts to the edge, leaving just enough room for Sasuke to squeeze in beside her.

He wipes her bangs to the side, eyes so filled with love towards his little one.

“When I was about your age,…”

.

.

“Mama look!” Sarada points at the night sky.

“What is it?” They are both lying on the porch, gazing at the starlit sky. The cool night air brushes their skins, sending goosebumps.

“You see those three stars next to each other? The one that kinda looks like a line.”

“Mm hm.”

“That’s called Orion’s belt. It’s a part of like this big constellation called Orion.” Sakura giggles. Their daughter has always been smart and observant, picking up things in a flash.

“Aa you’re right, Sarada! I see it now!” Sarada can’t take her gaze off of it, mind travelling back to that time when her father had taught her about the stars. She remembers how much she loved spending time with him.

“Mama?”

“Hm?” The cool breeze is starting to lull Sakura to sleep.

“I miss Papa.” Sarada’s eyes glimmer under the night sky.

“Me too.” Her father’s absence has never been easy, especially for Sarada. But she’s older now, and she understands his decisions. She doesn’t hate him, no. It’s just some days are heavier than others. She just misses him. They both do.

“Well? Tell me more. What about that one?” Sakura points to a random one, just near Orion’s belt.

Sarada giggles.

“I don’t think that one means anything, Mom.”

“Aah.” Sarada will always be thankful to those moments she shared with him, and to the many more she will share with him. She lets out a content sigh, clasping her hands behind her head, like her father.

They are still under the same sky, hearts connected, bond as strong as ever. And just like the stars, they will find each other again. Because home is where the heart is.

[redcameleon]

SSM 2020 Day 13

Prompt: Miso Soup

Summary: Sarada thinks her parents are like miso soup

Rating: K+.

“And that’s how your dad and I got married.” Sakura ends her one-hour love story of how she and Sasuke ended up together. Of course, she had to leave out some details. She figures she’ll save it for when Sarada is older.

“Papa, you better apologize to Mama.” Sarada turns to the raven-haired ninja next to her. Sakura laughs at her precious daughter’s remark.

“Hn. I did.” Sarada is still deep in thought when she suddenly offers a unique response.

“Hmm now that I think about it, Mama and Papa are like miso soup.”

“Eh? How so?” Sakura is intrigued by the little girl’s analogy. There are dozens other things that can compare to their relationship, but miso soup?

“You know how when you just let miso soup sit without stirring it, the soybean paste sits on the bottom and the clear liquid is separated at the top?”

“Yes..“

“But then when you stir it, the two mix together.”

“Yeah but I don’t see how that applies to us.” Sakura’s confusion doesn’t dissipate.

“It’s like Mama and Papa! I think all that conflict between you helped you grow. Even though there were a lot of bad things that happened between, it only shows how strong your resolves are. In the end, you were able to learn from it and it brought you two together. Just like stirring the miso soup.” She ends her explanation by raising both arms in the air in a celebratory pose.

Sasuke and Sakura are both astounded, but impressed at how their ten-year-old daughter can form such connections. It’s not the most perfect analogy, but coming from a ten-year-old, that’s pretty thoughtful.

Sasuke thinks, as expected of an Uchiha.

Sakura laughs as she pats her daughter’s head.

“I guess you’re right, Sarada! Now how about you help me make some for dinner?”

“Yes!” Sarada excitedly stands up and scurries to the kitchen.

“Hn. She’s definitely yours.” Sasuke comments as he stands himself up.

“Ours.” Sakura takes his chin and gives him a little peck before joining her daughter in the kitchen.

.

.

A/N: I have no idea where this idea came from but I’m suddenly craving for some miso soup now.

[redcameleon]

SSM 2020 Day 7

Prompt: Clear Skies

Summary: Highschool AU. Sasuke is acting “weird” around Sakura, and her friend Ino tries to get her to think straight.

Rating: K.

A/N: This is kind of based from this multichaptered story I’m developing.

“I just don’t get it Ino!” Sakura exclaims in exasperation. “I mean, he’s just outright acting weird I’m telling you!”

“Uh huh.” Ino listens as she munches away on her teriyaki bowl. She can’t believe she has to spend her entire lunch break, listening to her friend’s troubles when the answer’s right in front of her.

“I was standing right next to Shikamaru, right? And then he just swoops in right between us. Like literally he had to squeeze himself right between. I mean what the heck is his deal?”

“Mm hm.”

“And then there’s this one time we were working on that project together, and I caught him staring at me.”

“Sakura.” Ino places her hand on hers, urging her to calm down.

“What?”

“Do you seriously need me to spell it out for you?”

“Spell out what?” She cranks an eyebrow at her friend’s statement. Ino grunts in frustration.

“Look, he likes you. It’s so obvious! Why can’t you see it?”

“What?” Sakura says in a tone higher than before. It’s obvious she’s being flustered. But what’s crazier is how Sakura can’t see the reason behind his actions. She’s one of the smartest people she knows! Give her a math Olympic problem and she’ll be able to solve it in a jiff. But give her a boy to crack, then that’s a different outcome.

To Ino, however, it’s as clear as day.

“Sakura. Obviously, he doesn’t want you to be around other boys, that’s why he did that. And, why do you think he was staring at you? Cause he finds you attractive!”

“Really though? The Uchiha Sasuke? Finds me attractive?” She gestures to herself and Ino has to let out another frustrated sigh.

“Yes really! I know I’m right about this.”

Sakura ponders at her friend’s conclusion. Does Sasuke really think that way about her? He’s been nothing but cold towards her! Just like how he is with the other girls in class. He doesn’t even spare a glance, and when he did, he had been staring at her.

Besides, everybody loves Sasuke. He can easily pick any other girls in school that are way more attractive than her. So to Sakura, it doesn’t make any sense for him to look at only her.

Her mind is going infinite number of directions.

But even if Ino was right, this is going to change so many things.

.

.

.

to be continued.

[redcameleon]

SSM 2020 Day 1

Prompt: Stuck with You

Summary: At the end of the war, Sakura was tasked to keep a close eye at Sasuke. Even though things started off awkward, they somehow managed.

Rating: K+. curse word.

A/N: This ended up longer than I expected hehe. Enjoy~

With the war over, there’s bound to be lots of things to clean up after. The Allied Shinobi Forces plans to continue on for as long as possible, which means new treaties need to be made. Damage control needs to occur, and there’s people needing to be healed.

One loose end that needs to be tied neatly into a bow is none other than Uchiha Sasuke. Deciding to come back to Konoha with the rest of them, they can’t just let him loose without supervision.

“What?” Sakura reiterates back after hearing the Hokage’s command.

“Didn’t you hear me? You’ll be keeping a close eye on Sasuke while he’s in the village. Don’t leave him out of your sight. Just make sure he’s not trying to kill anybody. And maybe try to make him feel more comfortable. Surely you can do that, right?”

“Umm but-”

“I mean you’re perfect for the job! No one knows him better than you do.” Do I? Sakura thinks.

“So basically, I’m stuck with him?” She raises a questioning brow.

“It’ll just be for a few weeks. We’ll see his progress and decide whether further supervision is necessary. You’ll report back to me every two days. You’re dismissed.” Having received a direct order from the Hokage, that means she most likely can’t defy it.

Tsunade leans back in her chair, watching her former apprentice walk out of the room. She has to admit another reason why she’s tasked Sakura for the job is for her sake. Tsunade hopes that by doing this, they can begin to repair their bond. She’s placing her bet on them, on things turning out for the better.

.

.

Sakura doesn’t even know how to start. Does she just show up at his apartment and pretend that they’re fine? What would she and him even talk about? She can’t imagine how awkward it will be. She knows she’ll have to see him more often now that he’s back in the village. She just didn’t imagine it would be this soon.

She knocks on his door a few times. She hears some footsteps before the door swings open.

“Hi, Sasuke-kun.” She tries to quirk a smile.

“Sakura.”

“Umm I was wondering if you’ve eaten yet. I brough some onigiri for lunch. You still like them, right?”

“Hn.” He steps back into the apartment with Sakura following suit behind him.

Silence.

Sakura is inwardly kicking herself to say something.

“So, what have you been up to?” Is the only thing she can come up with on the spot. She watches as Sasuke turns around to face her, raising his eyebrow. Her gaze is immediately fixed to the missing limb. That might not have been the best thing to say, seeing how he is probably having a hard time doing things with only one arm. He probably has a list of things he wants to do but can’t.

“Is the pain still bothering you?” She manages to stir the conversation.

“No.” She sighs in relief. Even if he feels pain in the smallest amount, she knows he won’t tell her. She decides that she should call it a day in her attempt to befriend (approach? monitor?) Sasuke.

“Well I think I’m gonna head out. I’ll leave this on the table. I’ll see you later, Sasuke-kun.” She lets herself out.

.

.

She knows Sasuke is good now. He helped them end the war, and he’s even agreed to come back home to Konoha with them. But even though last time, they were fighting side by side, it still doesn’t excuse the messy tangled thread that is their relationship. She doesn’t even know where to begin to untangle it. A part of her hopes she can undo them. Does he want to though? Or will it be another effortless attempt from her end to salvage what’s left of their relationship? Sakura can’t help but drown in these questions.

The next day, she asks him to come to the hospital for a checkup. She thinks she can make work an excuse to see with him. After all what other choices does she have at the moment?

She sits in her office, holding a clipboard and scribbling down some things when she hears a knock on the door.

“Come in.” The door slides open and Sasuke enters. “You’re here! Have a seat, Sasuke-kun.” He does as he’s told.

She begins to unravel the bandages around his left shoulder, and not long afterwards a familiar green glow begins to appear. She takes her time to examine the flesh and notes down her observation.

“It’s healing real nicely! And I’m glad you're not experiencing any pain.” She covers up the wound with new bandages. “I heard Naruto and Kakashi-sensei are researching on making prosthetic arms. Hopefully they can be done soon.”

“Hn.” She notices his expression seems indifferent. She grabs this opportunity to ask him a few questions she’s been curious to know the answer to.

“How are you doing?” Sasuke turns to look at her, curious at where she’s heading with this question. Sasuke ponders whether she’s referring to his missing arm or something bigger than that. Should he just lie and be done with it?

“Tired.” Sakura is not taken aback by his answer. She does notice the faint dark circles under his eyes. And he does seem more sluggish? She can’t possibly imagine the burden he’s currently carrying. But she’s trying to understand him little by little. She places a hand on his shoulder, trying to reassure him that she’s there.

“If you ever need anything, let me know.” He stays there for a while before getting up and heading for the door. Sakura gathers up her courage and asks him. “Do you wanna grab dinner together?” Sasuke pauses in his step and stays there for a moment, as if he’s considering whether or not he should take her offer.

“Sure.” He opens the door and closes it behind him. A part of Sakura seems to brighten up just a bit. She quickly files his paper in a folder and tucks it in her cabinet. She takes off her coat before exiting her office. Sasuke’s leaning on the wall across from her office. He waits for her until she approaches him.

“There’s this really great dumpling shop next to the hospital and I think we could try that.” Sasuke shrugs his shoulder and begins to walk to exit the building.

“Sure.” She catches up to him.

.

.

Dinner is quiet. Sakura doesn’t make tons of comments, deciding to let silence occupy them for now. Sakura notices even though he appears distant for now, he doesn’t seem to reject her or push her away. That part, she’s certain. She begins to hope that things will get better. Are getting better?

It basically sums up their whole relationship afterwards. She doesn’t try to do anything extravagant. All her efforts are just trying to show Sasuke that Konoha is still livable, that Konoha is still their home, that the people living here are not evil, that he can and will heal, that she’s there for him no matter what. Slowly, she feels like her message is getting across to him.

Some days she would bring food to his place and they would eat together. At first, they don’t say anything, but small talks are beginning to be made. Her second tactic is to try to take him around Konoha, letting him see the newer parts of town, even though after Pein’s destruction almost all of Konoha is new. She likes to think he is listening to her whenever she’s rambling on about the shops she likes in Konoha and the new buildings being built, and yes actually he has been.

Other days they spar with each other. Sakura thinks their relationship must’ve progressed a lot of Sasuke to agree to spar with her. Then again, Sasuke seems to be the kind of person to take on a fight with anyone. It might be the only way for him to vent out some pent-up frustration without being punished. They always end up well, though. No one is hurt badly and even if they were, Sakura can heal them in a jiff.

She believes things are finally looking up for them. There’s no more awkwardness between them and Sakura thinks Sasuke is finally getting more comfortable around her. He’s not putting up a guard around her anymore, she’s beginning to let loose a bit more too, occasionally teasing him.

“I think he’s doing really well.” Sakura smiles as she reports back to the Hokage. The older woman leans back in her chair in satisfaction.

“That’s what I like to hear. Now unfortunately I have another mission for you.” Sakura widens her eyes in curiosity. “A nearby village needs our help to heal their sick, and I’m sending you and a couple other medics and jounins.”

“How long will I be gone?”

“Hm.. probably a week. Why? Are you sad now that you can’t be beside Sasuke?” Sakura tries to fight the blush that’s slowly creeping up to the tips of her ears.

“Psh no.” Maybe. Tsunade chuckles in amusement and hands her a scroll filled with the mission’s details.

“You leave tomorrow.”

.

.

“I’ve been assigned a new mission tomorrow.” Sakura drops in the news in the middle of their dinner. Sasuke looks up from his plate to look at her. “It shouldn’t take more than a week. It’s nothing dangerous. I think..”

Sasuke hums in response before digging back in his food. This is probably the last meal they’ll spend together before she embarks on her one-week-long mission. Sasuke doesn’t know whether it’s his feeling or if the night is going by quicker than usual.

She leaves first thing in the morning.

Sasuke wakes up later than usual and lets out a heavy sigh. The day is going to be more dull now that he doesn’t have someone to spend it with. He’s gotten so used to seeing her everyday that not seeing her for a week might have an effect on him. Back then, he’s gotten so used to the loneliness. Now that he’s experienced company, he longs for it more than ever.

He hears a knock on the door followed by a familiar voice.

“Oi Sasuke!” Sasuke groans in frustration. “I know you’re in there! Open up!” Naruto hollars, banging the door a few times. Sasuke gets up and opens the door to be met with a grinning blonde. “Oi!” He closes the door back on his face and treads to the bathroom.

Naruto decides to let himself in now that he’s made his presence clear.

“Tsunade-baachan told me to keep an eye on you until Sakura-chan gets back.” Great. One whole week with Naruto. Sasuke curses under his breath. This is going to be a long week.

One week couldn’t have gone sooner enough. Sasuke hears the news that Sakura is back from his mission when Naruto barges in his apartment that very morning.

“Hey, let’s grab lunch with Sakura-chan! I just saw her head to the Hokage’s tower.”

“No.” He dismisses his friend and grabs his coat before heading out of his apartment.

“Wait where are you going?” Naruto reaches out to stop him but Sasuke disappears in a blink.

.

.

“Good work Sakura, you’re dismissed.” Sakura bows before making her way to exit the Hokage’s office. “Oh and, I think Sasuke still needs to be kept under close supervision. I assume you’re still up to the task?” Tsunade finishes in a sarcastic tone. They obviously know from her recent reports that they can be sure Sasuke is not going to attack anyone. Sakura smiles before turning back to look at her former Master.

“Yes! You can count on me!” She walks down the stairway, feeling lighter and giddier than ever. She wonders what Sasuke did throughout the week she’s gone. She heard that Naruto had been in charge keeping him company and she can’t wait to hear all about it. As she exits the gate, she notices a figure leaning on the wall. She takes a closer to see someone familiar and walks towards him.

“Hi Sasuke-kun!” She clasps her hands behind her back, leaning forward. “Did you miss me?” Sakura giggles as she teases him.

“Hn.” Sasuke scoffs. I did. He can’t seem to utter the words though. He hands her the plastic bag he’s been carrying. Sakura takes it and peers in to examine the contents. Her face lights up.

“Oh my gosh I’ve been craving for these!” He’s taken the time to bring something from her favorite restaurant. He remembers how much Sakura brags about them.

“Lunch at my place?” Sasuke offers.

“Mm! That sounds lovely.” She smiles as they walk together side by side, the back of their palms occasionally brushing against each other, sending jolts of electricity through their body. “Wait, then will Naruto be there as well?”

Shit. He’s forgotten about Naruto. He scoffs in annoyance which can’t help but make Sakura laugh.

“We can always go to my place.” He thinks, that might not be such a bad idea after all.

[redcameleon]

SSM 2020 Day 5

Prompt: Arrivals

Summary: Modern AU. Sasuke’s a businessman who was supposed to come back to Tokyo from a business trip. Needless to say, Sakura was kept waiting.

Rating: K+. curse words

A/N: I’m not trying to make Sasuke like the bad guy here. I mean when you’re so busy, there’s always a possibility that you might forget some things, right?

Work work work. It seemed to be the only thing in Sasuke’s mind. Sakura had to suffer most of the time because of it, and today was no exception. Except that today was their third wedding anniversary.

He was supposed to come back home from his five-day business trip in Hokkaido today. Sakura had planned a special evening for them, spending extra time to cook Sasuke’s favorite meal to welcome him from his long trip. She even cleaned the whole house. She knew how much of a neat freak Sasuke was.

7:30PM.

His flight was supposed to land at 6:30 and given the distance from the airport to their home, it would take him about an hour to arrive home.

She had timed everything perfectly. She just finished cooking a few minutes before half past seven, and by the time Sasuke arrived, they could both enjoy their meals right away. She put on a soft instrumental in the background, to liven up the mood. She couldn’t contain her excitement to see him again. Three days without seeing him had been hard enough. This time she had to wait for a whole week!

8:00PM.

Still no sign of Sasuke. She checked her phone to see if he had left any messages. Zero. She figured maybe traffic was especially bad. She didn’t want to be pestering him every second, so she decided to wait.

11:00PM.

Waiting seemed to be the only thing she could do. She’d practically finished half a bottle of wine by herself. The food had grown cold, along with her mood. Half of her was worried that he’d got into some trouble or accident that prevented him from coming home, but half of her was beginning to think that he had forgotten to come home, which would seem impossible. Right? She decided the only way to get answers was to ask the man himself.

Sasuke-kun. Where are you?

A few minutes later, he responded.

On my way to the hotel.

“The hotel? Don’t tell me he’s still in Hokkaido.” Her latter guess was in fact proven correct.

But I thought you were supposed to come home today? Remember? Today’s our anniversary.

“Shit.” As he read her text in the taxi, Sasuke inwardly cursed himself. How could he forget such an important day? He must had booked the plane ticket on a different date. In his mind, their anniversary fell on a Sunday. He was wrong, of course. It fell on a Saturday. He ran a hand along his exhausted face. How am I gonna make this up to her?

He was going to need a lot more than just an apology. But for now, it was the only thing he could produce. He wasn’t trying to make excuses, but somehow the truth itself felt like one.

I’m so sorry. I booked the ticket on the wrong date. I’m sorry, Sakura.

Sakura felt crushed. She felt like every ounce of energy left were being sucked right out of her. She couldn’t even write a response. She didn’t bother to clean up the table and headed straight for the shower.

Of course. Work would always come first. She thought to herself. She let the hot water drench her, trickling from her head to her toes. She tried to focus on the scalding heat instead of the scorching pain in her chest. She couldn’t tell whether her lack of disappointed outburst was due to the wine or to her solidifying heart. She loved Sasuke with all of her heart, which made it especially hard for her to be left alone to wait for him like this.

She stepped out after a shower and fell asleep. Alone.

.

.

His flight was scheduled for Sunday at 8:00AM. Sleep hadn’t come to him at all. Thinking about how much he had hurt Sakura seemed to have kept his mind alive. He knew he didn’t deserve her. He deserved to be punished, and he was not going to make himself any less guilty. He just hoped Sakura was going to forgive him.

Countless hours in the office, leaving his wife alone at home the whole day would definitely affect their relationship. All this time he thought he’d be able to make her happy if he worked harder. Being one of the providers for the family, he thought their life would be so much better if he’d earn more. After all, Sakura also had her shifts at the hospital, and he knew how much she valued her own career.

He realized, however, that he’d been wrong this whole time. The only thing she needed was him. How could he had forgotten? The first thing she said to him when they got married.

“I don’t need anything luxurious. I’m happy whenever I’m with you. Even if it means living in a dump.”

It felt like the longest plane ride he had ever taken.

Arriving at their home, Sasuke took off his shoes and neatly set it on the shoe rack. Hearing the water running and plates clinking, he assumed Sakura was washing the dishes. He took a deep breath and went to greet her in the kitchen.

With a sunken voice, he managed to say, “I’m home”, earning a mere glance from Sakura. The only expression painted on her face was that of disappointment and defeat; expressions that never looked good on her, or on anyone in fact.

“Well you look like shit,” was the first thing Sakura said, and he couldn’t help but agree with her. He looked and felt like shit.

“Sakura.”

“It’s fine Sasuke-kun. I’ll just try to get used to letting work come between us.” His heart ached at her comment. He bitterly admitted there was truth behind them. He had been letting work come between them for too long. However, he wasn’t going to let that happen any further. Something had to change, and Sasuke was ready to do anything for her.

“I’m sorry.” He was hesitant to approach her. She turned off the water and rested her hands on the edge of the sink.

“Look. I don’t have the energy to deal with you right now. I’m just tired. Can you give me time?” He was expecting her to fully lash out on him. However, this felt even worse. It felt more serious, more severe. He’d have to really earn his forgiveness.

He decided to step back and give her space. She continued her task while he settled to unpack his luggage and shower.

All freshened up but still not managing to wash off the guilt, he went into the kitchen only to find that it was empty. Sakura was nowhere to be found. She must had stepped outside. He saw a meal had been laid out on the dining table, with a set of chopsticks and a note on the side.

Lunch. Dinner’s in the fridge.

He heaved a long sigh. Even when she was mad at him, she still cared for him enough to make sure he didn’t skip his meals. His heart ached more. The only thing he could do at that moment was give Sakura space and wait for her to return.

.

.

Sakura didn’t return until 11PM. He waited for her in their bedroom, reading over some reports. When he heard the door open, he peeked through the bedroom. Her expression hadn’t changed. She wasn’t sparing a glance towards him. She went to the kitchen to grab a glass of water before heading to the bedroom and preparing to hit the hay.  

He quickly set aside his reading materials and turned off the lights.

She sat on her side of the bed and lied down, only displaying her back towards him. Little did he know, she had only been outside at a nearby park, trying to collect her thoughts and calm herself. Still trying to act strong, she had to put up this armor showing that she wasn’t going to let her anger control her. She knew she couldn’t look at Sasuke in the eye or her emotions would explode in an instant.

“Goodnight, Sakura.”

“Goodnight.” her voice faint as ever.

.

.

Monday wasn’t supposed to be a day off for him, but he made it one anyway. He was determined to set things right, and that’s exactly what he was going to do.

His biological clock had always been punctual. Getting to work early meant having to wake up early. He woke up half an hour earlier than usual and quietly headed to the kitchen.

Gathering ingredients from the fridge and pantry, he was making Sakura’s favorite dishes for breakfast. He thanked God he could find all the ingredients at home, making sure he didn’t leave anything out. Trying to be as silent as possible, he started his task.

.

A delicious scent started poking at her senses, awaking her. Sakura opened her eyes and blinked a few times. Sunlight was pouring in from the blinds. She reached to her side to see that Sasuke wasn’t there. She heaved a sigh before detecting that sweet aroma again. She slowly sat up, gathering herself before heading out to the kitchen.

“Sasuke-kun, what are you doing?” She tried to take in the sight before her. A few plates were laid out on the kitchen table. She eyed them one by one, recognizing that they’re all her favorite dishes. Surprise overcame her as her mind hadn’t been fully there yet.

Sasuke was finishing up the last egg roll and setting them on a plate.

“Have a seat.” She obliged and took a seat before he joined her. She joined her hands on the table, her thumb fiddling with each other.

“I’m sorry I forgot. I know I’ve been away too much and spending less time with you. And you have every right to be mad at me.” He paused. He noticed she was still avoiding his eyes. However, he recognized the look on her face. It was the look of someone who was just trying to act tough and undisturbed, hiding the real Sakura underneath who was ready to break.

He reached out to place his hands on top of hers, watching her flinch a little at the sudden contact.

“But I want to change that. I’ll no longer be working during weekends, and I won’t take business trips too often. I’ll try my best to come home on time.” He paused.

“I’m sorry, Sakura.” He let silence fill in between them.

She knew she could never stay mad at him forever. Her love for him would always be greater and dissipate her anger quicker than she probably would have hoped.

He watched as her armor finally broke and tears were spilling from her eyes. Her lips quivered as she began to speak.

“Idiot. You’re lucky I still love you.” Sasuke couldn’t help the feeling of guilt from being lifted off his shoulders. He gently squeezed her hands.

“I love you too.” Her eyes finally met his before she leaned over and put her lips on his. He leaned into the kiss, touching her wet cheek. They pulled away and brought their foreheads together, finally reconnecting with each other.

“I missed you.”

“Aa. Me too.” He made sure he would keep his promise.

[redcameleon]

Superstar Series

Chapter 06: A New Beginning

Summary: It’s new years, which means the start of a new year, but also the start of a blossoming relationship.

Rating: K.

Prompt: SSM 2020 Day 26: something sweet

A/N: I thought this chapter fits well to the prompt, so I’m dedicating this chapter for SSMonth day 26!

New Years Eve. A day full of festivities as families gather together and celebrate the arrival of a new year, new beginning. 

The office is empty since most of the staff has gone back to their hometowns to be with their families. 

8:00PM.

Sakura glances at the clock on the wall before letting out a heavy sigh. Of all places she could be, she decides to spend her whole New Years Eve at the office doing some pesky paper work. She did promise her parents she is going to go home on New Years Day. She just doesn’t want a pile of work to be waiting for her when she comes back from her short needed vacation. 

“It’s okay it’ll all be worth it.” She says to herself. Stacks of paper adorn the table in the conference room. Having the whole office for herself means having a larger workspace compared to the usual 8x8 cubicle space-even though that’s already considered spacious compared to other offices.

Without a time to waste, she begins scribbling down notes, stacking paper on top of paper, putting them into folders before setting them aside on the corner of the table. 

She’s too engrossed in her task that she doesn’t notice Sasuke walking pass the half opaque half transparent glass wall that covers the conference room. Sasuke stops in his tracks before knocking on the door and peaking inside.

“Sakura?” 

“Oh! Sasuke-kun! I didn’t see- wait why are you here? Shouldn’t you be at home?”

“Got bored.” 

“Ah...” There’s a moment of silence, only because Sakura’s contemplating on whether or not she should say this,

“Umm well... Do you wanna keep me company? I could use someone to keep me from being bored.” She gives him a smile. Sasuke doesn’t say a word but pushes the door open, allowing him to step inside and take a seat right next to her. She swears she can feel her cheeks getting redder, and prays Sasuke doesn’t see it. 

“What are these?” 

“Oh I’m just organizing some meeting notes from last week, and wrapping up some documents from last week’s photoshoot. I figured if I finish them earlier, then I won’t have to worry about them after I come back from my vacation.” Sakura answers as she flips pages of paper. 

“Hn.” She lets a few moments pass with just noises of paper rustling around filling up the room. 

“Well what about you? Aren’t you going to go see your family?” Am I being too nosy again? Sakura thinks to herself. But she dared herself to ask the question anyway.

“They’re busy.” 

“Oh I see. I guess the dorm can be a bit lonely when you’re there by yourself.” Sasuke doesn’t answer. Sakura ponders whether it was something okay for her to say. She quickly steers the conversation away.

“Hey can you help me pass that folder over there?” Sakura asks while pointing to a folder just in front of Sasuke, not too far from her but nonetheless she would have to scooch over in order to get it.

Sasuke grabs the folder and hands it to her, accidentally brushing over her hand in the process.

“Thanks.” A few moments pass more, and Sakura’s mind becomes more and more focused at finishing the task in front of her. Meanwhile, Sasuke stands up and walks out of the room. She watches his back as he exits and makes a turn towards the elevator. 

Her shoulders deflate, thinking, Did he feel uncomfortable being around me? 

A part of her feels relieved now that Sasuke is gone, she can actually focus on her task, but a part of her wishes he would still be here. After spending so much time with him at work, she’s gotten used to his presence and even though he doesn’t say much, it’s not half as bad. 

“Oh well..” She continues to put papers in separate folders and tucking them away in that corner she’s dedicated.

A few minutes later, Sasuke comes back to the room, this time with two bottles of coffee in his hand. He places one in front of her and holds the other one for himself. 

“Thank you.” Sakura can’t help but form a smile. She grabs the bottle. It’s so warm. She takes a few sips and relishes in the warmth spreading through her. Part of it is probably from the beverage, but she would agree that most of it is from his thoughtful gesture. 

Sasuke settles back into his previous spot and scrolls through his phone. 

She continues to do her work, while Sasuke just sits there, minding her own space but still close enough so that she can feel his presence. To her, it feels.. calming. Hours pass by and she doesn’t even know when she laid her head on her arms, thinking that she would only take a five minute break when she would actually pass out from the drowsiness. 

The next time she opens her eyes, the office is brightly lit by the morning sun.

“What time is it?” She glances at the clock. “WHAT?! IT’S 8AM?! How long was I out?” She straightens her back and feels a piece of cloth drop from her shoulders. Confused, she grabs onto it. I don’t remember ever having a blanket with me... 

Unbeknownst to her, Sasuke had draped a blanket on top of her. And boy he had to go to other rooms to find a blanket warm enough. 

She glances the room and finds that all the papers have been stacked together in front of her. One stack of paper filled with costume ideas, one stack of folders, and another stack of other documents to file. 

Did I do this? 

On the side, she sees a bottle of coffee, this time still full, with a sticky note on it that says,

Happy new year, Sakura.

She smiles as bright as the morning sun, what a good way to start the year.

.

.

.

to be continued.

<--Chapter 5      Chapter 7-->

[redcameleon]

Superstar Series

Chapter 15: Resolution

Summary: Sasuke and Sakura finally solidifies their relationship.

Rating: K+

Shikamaru hears a knock on the door and turns around.

“Come in.” The door swings open and an Uchiha Sasuke peers through the door.

“Hey, do you have a minute?”

“For sure. Have a seat.” Shikamaru gestures towards the couches in the middle of the room. They both take a seat right across from each other. “What's up?”

“First of all, I wanna thank you.” Shikamaru chuckles. There’s a lot of things he can thank him for, Sasuke would have to be a little more specific, Shikamaru thinks.

“For what?”

“For getting Sakura to work here again.” Sasuke unconsciously fiddles with his fingers out of nervousness.

“Ah.. Well she was way too valuable for our company to lose.”

“And also.. thank you.. For everything.” Shikamaru quirks an eyebrow at him. The way Sasuke speaks, his tone and overall demeanor are putting Shikamaru on edge. It is as if he is saying goodbye. He tries to shake the thought.

“Of course, Sasuke. Is everything okay? Why does this sound like a goodbye?”

“Hn, rest assured, it’s not. I just feel like I owe you a lot.” Shikamaru silently lets out a relieved sigh and sinks back in his couch.

“Hey, I’m always here for you guys.”

“Aa.” Being there with them since even before they debuted, Sasuke has lost track of the many times they owe each other. Having suffered together, they have developed a bond far stronger than mere business partners. Sasuke sincerely thinks Shikamaru as his own brother, someone he can rely on, someone he trusts. Time after time he always manages to prove his loyalty, even though they might have different agendas sometimes.

“Well then how are things going with you guys?”

“It’s been good.” Sasuke smiles and Shikamaru notes the relief and calmness surrounding him. He can clearly tell Sasuke is in a state of peace. Shikamaru genuinely smiles.

They let a few moments pass between them before Sasuke speaks again.

“Actually what I’m here for…“ Shikamaru can already guess what this is about. “I’m gonna continue dating Sakura.” Sasuke shifts his gaze to meet Shikamaru’s, fire burning behind those onyx. He sits up straight, showing his resolve.

Shikamaru merely chuckles and smiles.

“All right.” Sasuke’s eyes widen in surprise. He was expecting some sort of disapproval or dissatisfaction, but no matter how much he searches Shikamaru’s expression, he finds nothing of the sort.

“You’re okay with that?” Shikamaru nods. “What made you change your mind?” He just has to be sure.

“I know your life hasn’t been easy. And I realized that by her leaving, it actually hurt you more. All I want is for you to be happy, and if being with her means that much to you, then yeah, okay.” Sasuke can’t believe what he is hearing.

“I-..” No words seem to come out of Sasuke’s mouth. Now, he is truly in his debt forever.  

“Of course, the risks of it affecting your career is still out there. And not to mention what would happen if you guys get caught. I’m still serious about everything I said before.”

“Well I’m sure we can figure something out.” Sasuke says in a softer tone, half joking but each word carrying some weight.

“We’ll have to write up some rules first.” Shikamaru leans forward, lacing his hands together and resting his elbows on his knees in that serious way he always does whenever he is trying to brainstorm.

“Whatever you say.” Sasuke lifts his hands up in a surrendering manner as they both laugh. “I’ll let Sakura know.” They both get up from their seats and head towards the door. Sasuke gives him a bow and Shikamaru gives him a pat in the back as he exits his office.

Sasuke walks down the hallway, turning to the corner and meets an anticipating Sakura.

“So? How did it go?” Sakura leans forward, eager to hear about everything he talked about.

“Hn.” Without saying a word, he merely grabs her hand in his and intertwines their fingers together. Sasuke notices the faint blush that manages to creep to her cheeks. He still can’t believe the effect he has on her even after all this time.

They head to the elevator, hands bound together without any care in the world. To them, their office is their fortress. Or so they thought. As the elevator doors open, they step inside and press the button to the basement.

Sasuke rubs his thumb over her knuckles and looks at her. Sakura tries to read his feelings, his thoughts. She can only assume that the talk went well, judging by how much he is glowing. The way his mouth curves up in a gentle smile that she’s only seen him make for her. She wonders how she can be so lucky in this lifetime.

Unexpectedly, the elevator doors open on the fifth floor. People start to flood in, prompting them to let each other’s hands go in an instant. They try to make the most blank expression in an attempt to hide their flustered faces.

As soon as the elevator gets to the ground floor, the rest of the people step outside, leaving them both alone in there again. They let out a sigh of relief.

“We need to lay out some rules.” Sakura speaks after a moment or two. Amused, Sasuke merely chuckles.

“Hn. Shikamaru said the same thing.” When the elevator reaches the basement, the door opens to reveal the parking lot before they step outside.

“We still need to be careful about being seen together. I guess I still don’t feel comfortable for us to show any form of PDA in the office.” Sakura voices her concerns, and in their minds, they both know they have the same thoughts.

“Aa.” Sasuke nods in agreement. “Meet up later to talk more?”

“Okay.” Sakura smiles. Sasuke looks over and spots the car he and his driver usually drive. Before heading towards it, he leans forward, placing a peck on her cheek. Sakura is taken aback by the sudden gesture and seems to be thrown off guard, although she does not try to hide her blush.

Sasuke smiles at her adoringly. How did he get so lucky to be able to meet this girl?

When he first met her all those years ago, he never would have thought this is where he would be, standing in front of her with his heart in his hand, freely giving it for her safekeeping. Even though his entire life is exposed for the world to see, he has never felt this vulnerable emotionally. Sometimes Sasuke wonders whether she really knows how much of an effect she has on him. How much control she has over him. A mere touch from her would send electricity down his spine, leaving him wanting for more.

She has seen him grow up, from that naïve trainee that joined the company years back to the matured young man that is him now. Of all the women in the world, he seems to find comfort in her, and that bewilders her. He can literally have any woman, but he chose her. Her mind seems to always be at awe every time she thinks about it. Without her realizing, she seems to fall for him more each day.

The road is never going to be easy for them, and they both know that. They both have anticipated that. But it does not mean they are not going to try, because they both know that whatever they have is worth it.

Being an idol does not mean they are no longer humans. It does not mean they are gods and goddesses that separates them from everyone else. It does not mean they do not need love like any other person. At the end of the day, they are like any one of us; someone who is trying to live life to the fullest, with some company along the way, and isn’t that everyone’s right?

.

.

Epilogue

Sasuke steps outside the black car parked in the alleyway next to Sakura’s apartment building. Wearing a black hat, a mask, and a black hoodie, he realizes people might actually mistake him for a burglar.

Without trying to draw any attention, he enters the building and ascends the stairs to the second floor. He walks through the hallway and spots her apartment number. He knocks a few times before the door swings open a few seconds afterwards.

Sasuke does not look back as he enters the apartment, closing the door and locking it behind him with a click.

“Were you followed?” Sakura asks nervously.

“I don’t think so.” Sasuke takes off his shoes before taking off the mask, allowing him to breathe better.

“Good.” Sakura does not even wait before she lunges herself at him and swings her arms around his neck. She places a kiss on his lips. “I’ve been waiting to do that all day.”

Sasuke chuckles and holds her hips as he lifts her up. She easily swings her legs around his torso. He smiles before he places his lips back on hers, savoring in the way their lips fit each other so well. They clumsily walk towards her bedroom. Sasuke gently drops her on the mattress as they finally relish on this privacy they rarely get to have. Now all they have to do, is follow their hearts.

.

.

.

end.

<--Chapter 14            

A/N: To all the readers who have been reading and following along this series, thank you so much! It feels somewhat bittersweet that this series has finally come to an end. This is my first multichaptered work, so I know it still needs improvement. But I’m so thankful for those lovely comments and feedback. Thank you! Any feedback is always welcome! I hope to write more work after this, so until next time!

[redcameleon]

SSM 2020 Day 9

Prompt: Around the Table

Summary: Sasuke and Sakura play a party game.

Rating: K+. some cursing

“Okay so we can all agree that whatever happens here stays here, yes?” Everyone nodded in agreement. A part of Sakura hoped she would remember what happened that night. After five shots of sake, and two glasses of whatever-was-in-the-bowl, she was starting to feel it. They all sat down around a table, snacks were scattered all over the table, playing cards here and there, and an empty beer bottle laying on its side in the middle.

“You all know the rules, right? Whoever the bottle points, gets to play 7 minutes in heaven!” Everyone ooh-ed and cheered and Naruto started spinning the bottle. Sakura watched it keep spinning and spinning, praying that it would land on someone other than her.

But of course the universe just loves to mess with her, because it did point at her, and also to the man sitting right across from her. She followed the direction to see that it was pointing at Sasuke. Her face turned red but thanks to her already alcohol flushed face, no one seemed to have noticed.

Other than Ino, no one knew that Sakura had the longest crush on Sasuke. She had been trying to get closer to him but all her efforts yielded no results. Sasuke was still cold as ever towards her and she was ever so slightly starting to give up. Imagining herself being locked in a closet with him for 7 whole minutes was surely going to drive her crazy.

“Oooh Sakura-chan and Sasuke!” As if it was not clear enough, Naruto had to announce it to everyone else. The others started cheering and clapping.

“All right you two in the closet you go!” She couldn’t even argue as they were both pushed into a tiny closet.

“We’re setting the timer for 7 minutes starting.. now!” The rest of them laughed and headed back to their seats.

Sakura sighed in defeat. 7 minutes seemed long. She wouldn’t even know what to do. She could tell Sasuke was just as annoyed. He hadn’t even planned on coming to the party if it weren’t for Naruto’s incessant pleas. Then he had to spend 7 fucking minutes in a tight-ass closet.

“Um.. so.. what should we do?” Sakura tried to break the thick awkwardness between them. She figured she could use this opportunity to get to know him better.

“Hn. Nothing.” Sasuke claimed a spot at one corner and just sat there, crossing his arms in front of his chest. Sakura followed soon, claiming another corner on the opposite side. The closet was small enough for the tips of their feet to be touching. Sasuke’s face clearly looked annoyed as hell and Sakura was raking her brain, thinking of ways to perhaps make him feel less annoyed.

She knew how much Sasuke hated useless talk. Being a straightforward person, she figured doing small talks in here wouldn’t do her good. Instead, she thought of a brilliant idea.

“Hey, I have an idea for us to get out of this.” Sasuke raised an eyebrow at the pinkette’s statement.

.

.

4 minutes left.

“Naruto! Let us out!” Sasuke banged the door.

“Hey it hasn’t even been 5 minutes yet!”

“Sakura’s not feeling well, she might be sick.”

“This is all a trick, isn’t it?”

“Naruto! Let me out!” Sakura chimed in. She made gagging noises, as if she would throw up in his closet.

“Oh shit! Okay hold on!” Naruto hurriedly unlocked the closet to let them both out. One of Sakura’s arm was around Sasuke’s shoulder as he was “helping” her walk.

“What happened?” He genuinely sounded worried, Sakura almost bursted into a fit of laughter.

“Had too much to drink.” Sasuke was trying to be as convincing as possible. Thankfully, Sakura’s acting was selling their act. And they bought it.

“Sakura-chan are you okay?”

“I’ll be fine, but I think I’m gonna head home now.”

“Oh yeah yeah okay! Get lots of rest Sakura-chan!” She waved her goodbyes to the rest of them and exited the apartment. They maintained their act until they turned the corner.

They both let out a breath they didn’t know they were holding.

“Wow I can’t believe that actually worked!” Sakura exclaimed her joy. She was planning on going home soon anyway, so this was the perfect opportunity.

“Hn.” She could tell Sasuke was just as glad.

“So I guess you’re probably going home?”

“Where do you live?” Sasuke’s question caught her off guard. She had expected him to dismiss her right away and be on his way, but for him to ask her where she lives?

“Oh um not too far from here, just a few blocks away.”

“I’ll walk you home.” He’s going to walk me home? A part of her couldn’t believe what she was hearing. Had a glass or two made him lose a few screws? He wouldn’t be this nice to her if they’d crossed paths in campus.

“Oh it’s okay I think I can get back myself.” The last thing she wanted was to be a burden to him.

“You’re not sober, Sakura.” Hearing her name fall from his lips had this certain effect and Sakura couldn’t tell whether it was because of the alcohol.

“Well…” Sasuke walked past her with his hands inside his pockets. “Come on.” Sakura followed suit as they both exit the building.

From the outside, he didn’t seem to give any shits, but she could see the way he kept his guard up. He would eye any guy who was checking her out, made sure she wasn’t bumping into things.

Contrary to Sakura’s claim, her apartment was more like a mile away. He was somewhat relieved he didn’t let Sakura walk home by herself in this hour.

“Thanks for walking me home, Sasuke-kun.”

“Aa.” Is this it? Will the night just end here? Sakura thought. She contemplated for a while before she began to speak again.

“Do you want a glass of water before you leave?”

“It’s fine.”

“Okay. Well, good night.” He nodded and turned around to leave. However, something in him made him stop and Sakura watched as he turned back around and walked towards her.

“Actually, do you have some food?” Her eyes widened at his sudden request. She was delighted of course.

“Yeah of course! I’m kinda hungry too. I’ll whip up a quick meal for us!” She unlocked her apartment and invited him inside.

The night turned out way better than she had expected.

[redcameleon]

Superstar Series

Chapter 13: Reunion

Summary: The group finally kicks off their tour, and Sakura and Sasuke’s interactions have never been this awkward. 

Rating: K.

It is only a few weeks before they kick off their first tour date. Stress levels are building up higher than before. Despite his intention, Sasuke can’t stop thinking back to his little encounter with Sakura the other day. He can still vividly remember her face, the words she said to him.

Shikamaru has just finished a meeting with the creative board and the head stylists as they all exit the conference room. Sasuke just happens to pass by when he notices Ino, Hinata, and Karin murmuring among themselves as they exit.

“Do you think Sakura will agree?” Sasuke’s eyes perk up at the mention of her name.

“I don’t know but she has to.. At this point we could use all the help we can get!” What is this? What is Sakura supposed to agree to? Shikamaru notices how Sasuke stops in his footsteps and moves to greet him.

“Sasuke.” Shikamaru motions him to enter the room. Sasuke gives him a nod before entering and closing the door behind him.

“I want to let you know first. You know how swamped we are right now, right?” He nods. Sasuke notices the bags underneath his eyes that mirror his own. He can’t possibly miss the mess that has been going on around the office. Understaffed is just one word to describe it. To be fair, they never expected their company to skyrocket in the past year alone. Being from a small company, there is only so many you can hire. But now that their scale is getting bigger, that means their performance venues are getting bigger, and they will eventually need to hire more help.

“We’ve decided to rehire Sakura for this tour.” Sasuke’s eyes widen in surprise. Not because of how outrageous the idea sounds, but because of all people, he never would have thought Shikamaru to be the one to propose the idea. After all, based on their last interaction at the office, Shikamaru’s words had pretty much influenced Sakura’s decision to quit. But now here he is, trying to get her back to the company. Honestly, Sasuke is delighted at the news. If Sasuke alone could not convince her to come back, maybe a more formal invitation will.

.

.

Sakura sits on the chair across from Shikamaru. The background jazz music fills the space, tuning out the indistinct conversations around them. Sakura fiddles with her straw as she shifts her gaze between the beverage in front of her and the folder lying on the table.

“Please give it another thought. We really need the help. You’re one of the most senior staff members, and we simply don’t have enough time to recruit a lot of new people.” Sakura takes a sip of her drink.

“When do I have to decide?” Shikamaru leans back in his chair.

“I’ll give you two days. Should be more than enough.” Sakura gives it one last glance before sighing and grabbing the folder.

“I’ll contact you with my decision.”

Sakura tucks the folder in her tote bag, bows to Shikamaru and exits the café. She walks back to her apartment, mind heavy with thoughts. To some this might be a straightforward answer, but to her, this concerns too many things that she can’t carelessly decide on the spot. Heck this will only make her resignation look like a joke. The reason she resigned in the first place was to draw the line between her and Sasuke’s relationship. Coming back to work for them, to work for him, would mean that all of that effort to stay away from Sasuke will be in vain. It is a different story if they both no longer have feelings for each other. But just from their little encounter at the park the other day, they both know that is far from the reality that they both still care about each other. Perhaps too much to maintain a professional relationship. If she were to come back, there is no guarantee that they can keep their relationship under wraps. The risk of being exposed and ruining each other’s lives are still up on the table.

Sakura comes to a stop at the red light.

But then, she can’t be so selfish as to turn her back on them. Like what Shikamaru said, they need the help. And being one of the senior staff members for their group, it’ll take years for someone to be able to replace her, and they both know time is not a luxury they have right now. She cannot stop thinking about her coworkers, Ino, Hinata, and Karin, how they were the ones who must have stepped in her place to fill her void. She cannot imagine the amount of stress that must have given them. She secretly feels guilty for her decision that a tiny part of her is starting to regret it.

Meeting Sasuke the other day was not just a coincidence. It was destiny. She had to see him one last time to be sure. One thing she is sure of is that her feelings for Sasuke will not go away. Not then, not now. No matter how hard she tries to not think about him, her heart cannot lie. She will always love him. Now she has been given the perfect opportunity, or excuse?, to come back. They need her. How can she turn her back on them?

She takes out her phone and dials Shikamaru.

“Hello?”

“Shikamaru-san.”

“Hn. That was faster than I thought.” Sakura smiles.

“Yes. I’ve given it some thought, and-“

.

.

Ino sits in her cubicle, chin in her hand as she browses through some pictures and concept ideas. She scribbles down some notes, making a relatively long to do list for her and her make up team. Letting out a tired sigh, she runs her hand over her face, deciding to get up to the vending machine and fetch a nice cold brew. Nothing like a good ol’ cup of coffee to wake her up.

Just as she gets up from her chair, she notices a figure standing a few feet away. She focuses her gaze and immediate recognizes her old coworker, and friend.

“Sakura!”

“Hi there.” Sakura giggles, spreading her arms.

“You-“ Ino runs up towards her, embracing her in a tight hug. “I can’t believe you’re here forehead! It’s been so long!”

“Sorry it took me so long.” Ino pulls back to look at her.

“So, does that mean you’re working here again?” Sakura gives a reassuring nod, and Ino has a sudden urge to hug her again.

“Yes! Oh my god I have so many things to tell you!” Ino swings her arm around her friend’s shoulder.

“Me too. I guess I haven’t been entirely open about myself.” Ino is no idiot. Even though Sakura hasn’t told her about Sasuke, she was able to figure things out rather quickly. She just does not know all the details.

“How about you buy me some coffee and we can catch up?”

“Sounds good to me.”

.

.

Huffs and puffs of air fill the room as the music comes to an end. The four men immediate plop to the ground in exhaustion.

“Hey, we did great! Don’t you guys think so? We’ve never been more in sync.” Naruto comments, pride evident in his voice.

“Well yeah, we’ve been busting our butts for months, we better be good!” Kiba comments, making Naruto chuckle.

“Looks like I caught you all in the right time.” A female voice enters the room, prompting them all to sit and turn their heads to the source. Their eyes widen when they see a certain someone peeking through the door with a bag of snacks.

“Sakura-chan!” Naruto gets up, as if all his strength has been replenished and pulls her into an embrace. “You’re back!”

Kiba and Suigetsu join him, giving her side hugs.

“We’ve missed you lots!”

“You mean my snacks?” Sakura eyes Kiba.

“Nonsense! Of course we miss you.” Sasuke stands in the middle of the room, observing their interaction. His heart is beating at two hundred beats per minute, unsure if it is from their dance practice or from her.

Sakura hands the delicacies to the members, happy at how quick they dismantle the packaging and devour their contents. Sasuke slowly walks towards her, eyes never leaving her form as he takes in the sight in front of him. She is here. She is finally back. Is it for good? That is the only question that remains.

Sakura gives him a warm smile as he approaches her, keeping himself at an arm’s length.

“Hey.”

“Hey.”

“You’re back.”

“Hm yeah.. Shikamaru did a pretty good job convincing me.” He needs to remember to repay him somehow.

“So you’re staying right?”

“For now.” That’s a good enough answer for him. For once, he can finally be around her again.

“Hey Sasuke, if you’re not having any we’re gonna finish all of this.” Suigetsu chimes in. Sasuke gives her one last smile before heading towards the members.

“Leave some for me, will ya.” He ruffles Suigetsu’s hair before he sticks his hand in the bag, ruffling around a bit and taking out an onigiri.

Compared to their other practices, nothing can top off today’s.

.

.

The following days seem more vivid for Sasuke compared to other days. He does not know why but his mood has been greatly lifted, although his members seem to know what caused it, or who. The way his face would light up, the way he walks into the room with his shoulders broad, and his confidence apparent, only a blind man cannot see the effect Sakura’s return has caused him.

Trying to get back into her groove again, Ino informs Sakura on the latest changes. Reading meeting notes after notes, and going over sketches after sketches, Sakura is determined to get back to her professional self again. She is not going to let herself fall behind just because she was absent for a few months.

Occasionally bumping into Sasuke in the office, they only manage to spare a brief hello, how’s it  going, and see you later. Still seemingly flustered around each other, they try to avoid any unnecessary physical touch. Of course, it is nearly impossible when Sakura is in charge of dressing up Sasuke.

Both crave for more, yet a tiny voice keeps holding them back. The pent up frustration somehow lingers in the air. All he wants is to just grab her cheeks and pull her into a kiss. All she wants is to run her hands all over him, to finally let herself love him fully. All they want is to just be in each other’s arms, to fully let themselves love. Knowing better that that will not do them any good, especially in the media’s eyes, they bury their urges deep down.

Days quickly turn to weeks, and before they know it, they are leaving for their tour tomorrow. They have one last meeting before they end the day early, giving everyone a good night’s rest to prepare for their departure.

One by one, the rest of the staff leave the building. Sakura is cleaning up her desk when Naruto walks up to her cubicle, leaning over the partition.

“It’s nice to have you back.”

“It’s good to be back.”

“You know, Sasuke seems to be in a much better mood lately.”

“Oh yeah? That’s good to hear.” She does notice how much he’s been smiling lately. Just his overall aura seems more.. cheerful. And her eyes would linger at him for too long, admiring how much happiness suits on him.

“You know it’s probably because of you, right?”

“I’m sure he’s just excited because the tour is nearing.”

“You know that’s not all.”

“I know.” She pauses. “But I’m not here to get back together with him. At least.. Not now.” She can’t seem to stop speaking when it comes to Naruto. He has that effect on people; he just makes people so comfortable.

“But you do want to get back with him?” Naruto eyes her, looking for some sort of confirmation.

“Well.. someday I guess? I don’t know Naruto. You guys don’t get the luxury of dating like normal people once you become famous. And I don’t want to be a burden for Sasuke, or cause his fame to plummet.” All of Sakura’s words have truth in them. All except for one thing.

“Believe me, you’ve never been a burden to him.” Sakura looks up to him, and sees fire burning in his gaze. She seems to wonder how Naruto can be so sure about that.

“How do you know?”

“I just know.” Sakura cannot deny the butterflies that are beginning to fly in her stomach.

.

.

The beginning is always the hardest part. Being that this is their first tour, things are bound to go wrong, and they just have to roll past it.

Running frantically across the room, Sakura grabs some tissue to dab Sasuke’s sweat away. The members have just finished their first set and are off to change for the second set. With just a ten minute intervention in between, they are being chased by the clock. She quickly gets Sasuke off his navy blue shirt and into another shirt with beaded accents on the collar and cuffs. Sasuke buttons it up while she dabs some more powder on him, fixing his make up.

“Great, all set!” After muttering a quick “Thanks.”, Sasuke speed walks out of the room and into the stage elevator.

They are all running on autopilot as they let their bodies go through each song just like how they practiced. With a few bumping ins into people, and a few shoutings here in there backstage, they somehow manage to finish their first day cleanly.

The fans’ loud cheering can be heard from outside the venue, and nothing feels more refreshing than knowing how months of preparation, rehearsals, and meetings are starting to pay off.

Days go by as they move from one city to the other, and one country to the other, meeting fans from all over the world. Their energy never dwindles as they keep getting more strength from their fans.

But of course, just as they think the tour is going fine, a disaster happens. Suigetsu limps off the stage, arms swung around his bodyguard and leaning his body on him. During one of their final songs, he seems to have lost his footing and twisted his ankle. Withstanding through the pain and still managing to end the concert beautifully, all the adrenaline finally runs out as he feels a pulsating pain from his ankle.

They quickly summon the doctor to take a look at him. Suigetsu lies on the floor, panting as sweat streams down his face and neck. He winces when the doctor tries to lift his foot. The doctor wraps some ice packs around his ankle, and rests it on a pillow.

“I’m afraid you twisted your ankle. You need to take it easy for the remaining tour. And that means, no dancing. In fact, I don’t think you should perform at all.”

“What?!” Suigetsu abruptly props himself up by his elbows. There is no way he is going to miss out on a performance, not when they are at their final leg of the tour. “There’s no way I’m gonna miss out on a performance!”

“Suigetsu, don’t be ridiculous. You won’t be able to perform at all if you insist on dancing during the rest of the tour.” Shikamaru places his hand on his shoulder, trying to reason with him. Suigetsu looks over to the side, clearly frustrated with the whole situation.

Luckily, they are able to come up with a solution for him to still be on stage, as long as he does not dance. During their performance the following day, they let him sit on a stool in the middle of the stage while the rest of the members dance in front of him. His condition clearly bothers him. Nevertheless, he tries to put on a smile and sings through his parts. The members would sometimes dance around him, making him laugh. All the fans still give their all, cheering throughout the entire show, screaming his and their names.

.

.

The drive back to the hotel is quiet. The four members lean back on their car seat, looking over the window. Their minds keep replaying their performance, each taking mental notes of individual things for them to improve. They talk over some parts of their performance where Kiba’s tempo was slightly off beat, where Sasuke kept brushing over Suigetsu, where there was a part where Naruto sang off key.

Letting out a sigh, the members’ mood seems to be defeated as the car ride grows silent.

“But hey we did great too! I mean the fans loved us!” Naruto tries to cheer everyone up. Despite it being their first tour, they have to admit that they’ve been doing great so far, and Naruto is trying to make sure they all know that.

“Come on, we just have to practice harder and do a better job for the rest of the tour.”

“Easy for you to say, I can’t even dance with you guys!” Suigetsu flails his arms around in frustration. The members do not say a word as they all understand the pain of not being able to perform when it is their whole life! Suigetsu is just glad it is only temporary.

“Hey, you’ll still be with us on stage! You just have to focus on getting yourself healed. The faster you heal, the faster you can perform again.��� Kiba gives him a reassuring smile, and slowly, Suigetsu’s mood is beginning to be lifted.

“Yeah you’re right. Thanks guys.” If it were not for each other, who knows how quick they would give up.

As they arrive at their hotel, the only thing on their mind is a nice hot shower and a good night’s sleep. Sasuke shuts the door to Suigetsu’s hotel room and begins to head over to his own room when he notices Sakura walking towards him. He can only assume she is walking over to her room, which he believes to be the one next to Suigetsu’s.

“Hi!” Sakura stops to greet him.

“Hey.”

“Have you eaten yet?”

“Aa. We ordered room service earlier.”

“Ah great!” Sakura fiddles with her thumb. She cannot believe how awkward she is with Sasuke. She just wishes she can start being herself around him again, whenever that will be.

“You were really great today!” Sakura glances over to him, a tint of blush painted over her cheeks.

“Thank you.” Sasuke looks at her, and he has to fight off a blush. He curses himself for not being able to say more, but he can only manage to say, “Thanks for helping us today.”  

“Of course.” Sakura beams up. When did things go so awkward between them? He wants nothing more than to be around her comfortably. He thinks it must be from the stress. He supposes he can ask her to come over to his room. Some privacy might be better. That way, they can talk freely without being heard by anyone in the hallway. But is it the right thing to do? He still has not talked to her again about this, them. Would it confuse her even more? When he is lost in thought, Sakura speaks.

“I think I’m gonna hit the hay. Good night Sasuke-kun. I’ll see you tomorrow.”

“Aa. Good night.”  Sakura walks pass him and enters her room.

Tch. His heart aches for her, for her presence, for her love. Oh, how much he misses her.

She closes the door behind her and leans on the door, letting out a heavy sigh. Her heart aches every time she sees him. Oh, how much she misses him.

.

.

to be continued.

<--Chapter 12        Chapter 14-->

[redcameleon]

SSM 2020 Day 24

Prompt: Once in a Blue Moon

Summary: It’s Sakura’s birthday and Sasuke is going out of his way to do something special with her, even when he doesn’t necessarily like it. He’d rarely do it for anyone else, but anything for Sakura.

Rating: K.

A/N: sorry if this is bad lol i wanted to do something fun after writing gloomier themes these past few days.

“Please, Sasuke-kun” Sakura clasps her hand together, batting her eyelashes at him. Sasuke grunts in response.

“It’ll just be this time.” Sasuke has already lost the battle the moment she looks at him with those pleading wide jade eyes, which she completely knows will melt him away.

“Fine.” Sakura leaps and hooks her arms around his.

“Thank you, Sasuke-kun! I’m sure you’re gonna love it!” Today is Sakura’s birthday, and Sasuke told her he’d do anything she wants, just for today. Little did he know, it would include going to a new dessert place in Tokyo to try out their best-selling Anmitsu, and Kami knows how much Sakura loves Anmitsu and how much Sasuke dislikes sweets.

Sakura has been dying to go to this new joint since their soft opening. With work on her way, she had to postpone it until today. Today is the perfect day to try out the new treat. Sasuke and her have the day off, and since it’s her birthday today, she can get another free bowl of dessert. Sasuke figures, since it is her special day, he’ll put aside his preferences and do what pleases her. Her smile means the world to him. He will do anything to make her happy.

They walk together, hands clasped together as Sakura tells him about the new database they’re trying to design for the hospital and Sasuke nodding along amidst her explanation.

They arrive moments later and are seated by the waitress. Sakura tells their orders right away, as if she has memorized their entire menu in her mind. Sasuke can’t help but feel amused.

“What?” Sakura wonders. She catches him staring at her.

“Hn nothing.”

Not long afterwards, their food arrives. Two bowls of Anmitsu sitting right in front of them, glistening with beauty and deliciousness that Sakura had only seen in pictures.

She quickly digs in and her face express contentment and satisfaction that Sasuke had only seen her make in the bedroom.

“Hm! It’s just as good as I had imagined! Try a bite, Sasuke-kun!” Hesitantly, Sasuke eyes the bowl in front of him and looks at Sakura. Sakura gives him a nod and he skittishly scoops some with his spoon and puts it in his mouth.

He has to admit, it isn’t as bad as he thought it would be. A part of him wonders what made him hate it in the first place. Then he remembers why. Too sweet.

Sakura watches his expression turn from a disgusted look, to an okay one, before settling again to a what the fuck look. Sakura can’t help but burst out in laughter.

“Oh my gosh Sasuke-kun you should see the look on your face! I guess you still don’t like sweets after all.” Sasuke sets the spoon on the table in a defeated look.

“It’s okay you don’t have to finish it.” Sakura knows how much he hates sweets, and almost feels guilty for making him eat a whole bowl of it.

Despite all of that, she can’t believe what he does next. He continues to devour the dish, bite after bite. It’s a waste to leave food behind. He can hear his mother’s words in his mind.

Oh the things we do for love.