A/N: As promised, here's the final chapter! Enjoy!

Aftermath: Special

Chapter 4: Their Finale

It was dark.

Green eyes opened, vision slowly adjusting in the darkness. Sakura stared at the clock in her nightstand.

5:30 AM

Still groggy from shortened sleep, the pinkette forced herself up then grabbed her clothes inside the closet. After taking a quick, cold shower and slipping into her uniform, she ambled to the kitchen while mentally ticking today's routine.

Wake up early – check.

Drink coffee and read the latest medical journal – check.

Cover both morning and afternoon shifts – check.

Go home early, eat dinner and, drink sake for a good night's sleep – check.

Check, check, check and, check.

Absorbed by her mental checklist, Sakura unceremoniously tripped and fell face flat on the floor. Rubbing her hurt nose, she angrily glared at the cause –

Only to gawk at two long legs dangling precariously on the armrest. 'Please tell me this is not a dream,' she mouthed inwardly, eyes glued at Sasuke's lean frame curled awkwardly on the small loveseat. His creased forehead and bent posture showed discomfort from his sleeping arrangements. Last night, Sakura offered to share the bed with him and partly due to his strict upbringing, he refused.

'I didn't expect him to be the more traditional type,' she mused, tiptoeing to the kitchen. While waiting for the coffee to brew, she returned to check on Sasuke.

Her clinical eyes scanned the latter's slumbering form, reminding her of the events last night. Upon finding out he got injured, Sakura urged him to get treated at the hospital. Sasuke vehemently refused though he consented after she suggested healing him in a more secluded location.

Thus, they spent the rest of the night in her kitchen tending to his wounds.

They didn't talk much either since Sasuke stayed silent and she was busy stitching the wounds on his back. Sooner or later, Sakura initiated the conversation by updating him of recent events. The Uchiha would occasionally nod his head and reply when he deemed it necessary.

'I never found out why he got injured,' she mused, using her chakra to heal the bruise above his brow.

The slight intrusion jolted Sasuke awake.

His lone hand grabbed her hand, grip tightening with intent to kill. Undeterred by his menacing aura, Sakura waited patiently until he gathered his bearings. When his gaze landed on her face, she smiled softly. "Good morning, Sasuke-kun."

He only groaned, rolling to his side. Vigilance was Sasuke's usual defensive mechanism and if she were another person, he would've easily broke her wrist. With her other hand being held by him, she used the other to comb her fingers into his raven hair soothingly. Not soon after, Sasuke's shoulders visibly relaxed and he loosened his death grip.

Sakura's brows furrowed at his defensive nature. Sasuke's former status as an international criminal and his possession of the clan's bloodline limit made him a constant target by rogues – hence his reasons of keeping off-radar. Anyhow, plotting vengeance against Sasuke's unknown enemies will not bring relief for his sore back. "You'll strain your injuries from sleeping here. Move to the bedroom."

He didn't budge. She tugged his hand, fully aware of his hesitation. "I don't mind."

Sasuke finally faced her, noting her dressed state. "Work?"

"The hospital's understaffed today so I'm covering both morning and afternoon shifts." The pinkette explained, tugging his hand again. "Time to get up."

The sound of the coffeemaker finishing its brew sidetracked Sasuke from replying. He released her hand. "Coffee's done."

Sighing, Sakura cursed the alleged object from ruining their moment. Noting his weary expression, she insisted, "Go get some rest."

After yanking his hand for the umpteenth time, Sasuke rose from the couch. After listening to his footsteps and the door being closed shut, Sakura began her morning routine. She was perusing her medical journal when he unexpectedly returned, clad in a simple black long-sleeved shirt and gray pants. "Not sleepy anymore?"

He shrugged, poured himself a cup of coffee then sat next to her.

Sakura resumed her reading while Sasuke quietly sipped his coffee. The rosette-haired medic just finished skimming the last few passages on Child Psychology when he spoke. "Today's your off, isn't it?"

Her brows knitted together, recalling that particular tidbit. "Naruto told me yesterday that Kakashi-sensei gave me the day-off. But –"

"You'll still go to make sure things are running smoothly."

She blinked, surprised at his intuitiveness. Two can play that game. "And I suppose you're not planning on sleeping anytime soon?"

The raven head merely shrugged, finishing his coffee. After Sakura downed hers, he brought their empty mugs to the sink. The sounds of running water and ceramic clinking together provided the pinkette a welcoming distraction from the attractive male before her.

"You got the morning shift at the hospital?"

She nodded absentmindedly, engrossed in her journal.

He turned the faucet off. "I'll walk you there."

"No need!" She exclaimed, didn't want to aggravate his injuries. "It's just a fifteen-minute walk from here. On the other hand, you need to rest so –"

He beckoned her closer with a wave of his hand.

Curious, Sakura approached him – only to get tapped on the forehead. The corners of Sasuke's mouth were tilted upwards as he replied, "I don't mind."

Amazing how his smirk convinced her without hesitation.

Sakura didn't resist as he tugged her hand and led her out the door.

Konoha Hospital

10:00 AM

"Come on."

"What?"

Ino flattened her palms on the wooden desk, blocking Sakura from writing a report. "The nurses are gushing about it and I want to know straight from the source."

Sakura swatted her friend's hands away. "I don't know what you're talking about."

"Sure you do. So, who's the hot stuff that accompanied you to the hospital this morning?"

The pinkette's cheeks immediately colored, realizing whom her best friend alluded to. 'No wonder those nurses were giggling when I passed by their station to get my patients' charts.'

Apart from her and Naruto, Ino and the others were unaware of Sasuke's return. Though his popularity remained at large, the entire village was oblivious to his current appearance. Eyeing the nurses whose gazes fixed at her direction, it brought the annoyed medic back to the time she fended off several threats to gain her teammate's attention.

Noticing Ino's inquisitive stare, she sighed. "He walked me to the hospital in return for healing his wounds yesterday."

"Ohhh…juicy! What's his name?"

"Gee, Ino. Patient confidentiality, remember?"

Cerulean eyes narrowed to slits. "It must be 'that' guy, huh? The one with the head wound at Naruto's wedding?" When Sakura opened her mouth to protest, she interjected, "I knew it! You finally snagged a man!"

"Ino, you're sadly mistaken. He's –"

Ino placed a finger to her lips, shushing her. "Don't say a word! I fully understand that you're feeling weepy right now because Sasuke-kun didn't return for your birthday. Since we're already broaching on the subject, why don't we invite 'this' guy to Yakiniku-Q later?"

Sakura palmed her face. Sadly, her friend had a one-track mind when it came to boys.

They heard a knock and the door opened halfway, revealing a giggly nurse. "Sakura-sensei, someone who knows you is requesting for a consultation. Shall I let him in?"

"Name the patient and his condition."

"Morino Idate, 23 year old male with minor abrasions on the head. He said you administered treatment for his injury yesterday so, he's here for the follow-up checkup."

"Very well, take his vitals then send him here."

Ino watching the nurse leave, cackling evilly. "Well, well. Aren't you lucky he's making the first move?"

"For the last time Ino, the one they saw this morning was – ah, Idate-san!"

Said person entered the room, a grin on his face. "Hi, Sakura-san. I didn't interrupt anything, did I?"

Ino took his arrival as her cue to leave. "No worries! I'm heading out anyways. By any chance, are you free tonight?"

"Um…I'm in the middle of packing since we're heading back to Tea Country tomorrow morning."

"Perfect!" Ino quickly pointed to Sakura glaring daggers at her direction. "It's HER birthday today so we're having a small celebration at Yakiniku-Q later at 7pm. Want to join us?"

"Ino! Stop bothering Idate-san from doing his –"

"It's okay! I can go," Idate exclaimed, oblivious to Sakura's frustration at her friend's antics. "As soon as I finish packing I'll join you."

The blonde woman guffawed at her plan's success. She gave Sakura a sultry wink. "Well, then! I'm leaving now so you two better behave."

"Ino!"

Ignoring the pinkette's protests, she left the room.

Konoha Training Grounds

4:30 PM

"You owe me."

"Owe you what?"

"An important detail."

"What detail?" Naruto scratched his chin, trying to remember. "If you're asking me to write about Sakura-chan's trips to the toilet or the public bathhouse, I can't do those because I'm married now and…"

"Usuratonkachi."

"Ehehehe…well," Naruto scratched his head, unfazed by his friend's intimidating glares. "Cut me some slack since we all know you're the only one in her heart."

"Hn."

'Ah, well,' the blond sighed, taking a swig from his water bottle. They were resting after a sparring match that Sasuke unsurprisingly won. During the course of his wandering, he developed a new skillset and it nearly took the life out of Naruto upon experiencing it first-hand. Fortunately, Kurama still cared for his well-being and provided him with chakra.

Nevertheless, his friend was lethal in kenjutsu and if Naruto weren't careful in dodging his attacks earlier, he'd end up with missing fingers and toes. He wondered what got the teme so riled up. "Anyways, what were you referring to earlier?"

Sasuke gulped his water down, tossing the empty bottle in the trash bin. "Sakura's Tea Country mission."

"Tea Country? Oh…" Naruto snickered. Fed up from his friend's stubbornness for not writing back, he purposely left that information out. "I can't tell you about that! Missions are supposed to be confidential, 'ttebayo!"

"Funny how you didn't skip information on her espionage mission at Iwa and that escort detail at Sunagakure."

"Ehehehe…well, those were A-rank missions."

"So posing as someone else's girlfriend to jilt a wedding is classified as S-rank?"

Naruto poked Sasuke in the arm. "It's definitely an S-rank since the mission required someone single and Sakura-chan's the perfect one for the job!"

"It's perfect because she's the only female, idiot. Or better yet, why didn't you use your female clone?"

"I vowed that I won't do any more humiliating stunts or else Hinata will have my head on a platter."

Sasuke smirked. "Tch, didn't expect you to be the obedient one."

Naruto stuck his tongue out at him. "Anyways, are you staying here for good?"

The Uchiha gazed at the burnt trees he damaged with his Katon technique. "I'll leave tomorrow morning."

"Too fast!" his best friend exclaimed. "Try staying for a week at least! You can bunk with me in the apartment."

"You want me to inconvenience you on your first week of marriage?"

"Nah, Hinata won't mind! She's very nice once you get to know her."

"Hardly convincing," Sasuke remarked, absentmindedly stabbing the ground with his katana. "You married a fine girl so don't misuse her kindness."

"Can't argue with that," the blond chuckled, surprised by the latter's advice. "Sooo…how about you? Got any plans for tonight?"

"Plans?"

"Sakura-chan's birthday."

His silence meant no.

"We made reservations at Yakiniku-Q tonight for 7pm," Naruto said, blue eyes sparkling mischievously. "Make sure she attends this time."

Sasuke raised a brow. "Why wouldn't she?"

"Her schedule in the hospital and the children's clinic often coincide so we barely see her," Naruto explained, tucking a hand under his chin. His wedding band glinted in the afternoon sun. "Lately she's that she's been working nonstop so we're hoping she'd take a break every once in a while. She had nothing to worry about since the hospital and the clinic are doing well!"

"Hn."

"If this workaholic attitude of hers keeps up, she'll eventually turn into a hermit!"

Sasuke shrugged. "It's fine."

"I can't believe you're taking the situation lightly! It's bad for the health, 'ttebayo!" Naruto retorted.

"Is it bad to do something you're good at?"

That got the blond's attention.

The Uchiha stood up, dusting dirt off his pants. "There's nothing wrong with Sakura showing dedication to her duties. When you do something you're good at, it's understandable that you'll forget everything else. Instead of forcing her to stop, why don't you try supporting her?"

Naruto rubbed his neck in embarrassment, eyes reflecting guilt. "You're right. I'm sorry, I always let my overprotective nature get the best of me."

"Hn."

"Ehehehe…well, I'm 100% sure you agree with me that she's one heck of a woman." The blond crossed his arms then grinned. "While you were away, Kakashi-sensei and I often worry that she's the only one in our group who's not taken and –"

"Does it matter?"

"Of course it does, teme! I often heard from Ino that Sakura-chan's constantly surrounded by hormonal-driven perverts in the hospital."

"Patients."

Naruto slapped a hand across his forehead. "Argh! Patience my ass! What's with this lenient attitude? Show some concern for our precious teammate and my sister from another mother!"

Sasuke only smirked.

"Your nonchalance is seriously getting on my nerves, 'ttebayo! If Sakura-chan finds someone else better than you –"

"Regardless of hormonal-driven perverts and overwhelming responsibilities, Sakura's not weak as you thought her to be," Sasuke interrupted, sheathing his katana back in its scabbard. "Seeing her doing something she's good at without losing a shred of confidence is fine with me."

Naruto's mouth gaped open. Though he and Kakashi shared similar sentiments concerning Sakura's blooming attractiveness, his apathetic friend kept ignoring the possibility that she'll fall out of love and find someone else.

Time to press the teme's buttons. "Ya know, Sakura-chan needs more love than that. Can't you beat her love confession with your own version?"

Sasuke sighed. "This is where I'm drawing the line, usuratonkachi."

"Oh, come on! Not even for her birthday? A simple "I love you" is enough!"

To the blond's amazement, his former rival's lips curled upwards. "Our bond goes way beyond words, and an usuratonkachi will never understand that."

"Teme!"

Giving a brief wave to his idiotic friend, Sasuke left the area. Unbeknownst to Naruto, his incessant babbling actually caused some of the stoic Uchiha's inner turmoil to emerge.

'Time for me to rectify that.'

Konoha Hospital

6:00 PM

Sakura gawked at the overwhelming pile of papers Shizune left on her desk. Plucking a document from the pile, she squinted at the minuscule-typed words in irritation.

"Just when I thought I could go home early to celebrate my birthday," she grumbled, reading the first five sentences. In spite of dealing with huge amounts of paperwork, she was pleased with the progressive results of her children's clinic. Seeing the younger generation's faces and their successful rehabilitation inspired Sakura to work harder in lessening the trauma in their fragile minds. With each successive treatment, more patients were introduced to the clinic thus increasing her workload. Sakura didn't mind – she loved her job and enjoyed doing it.

"I'm glad things are running smoothly," she said to herself, signing the report then placing it on the approved pile. "By the time I finish these it'll be past midnight."

She was reading her 10th document when a nurse suddenly burst in her office, cheeks flushed and an extremely wide grin on her freckled face. "Sakura-sensei! There's a patient here that wants a consultation!"

She almost snapped her pen at the disturbance. "Consultation hours are over so please tell the patient to set an appointment for tomorrow –"

"Hn."

That unmistakable intake of breath made Sakura pause from her writing. Her eyes quickly darted to whom the nurse was gushing at. She instantly rose from her seat, papers scattering all over the floor. "W-what are you doing here?"

"Am I too late for a consultation?"

"Well, I –"

The nurse sidled up to the newcomer. "No worries, Sakura-sensei! It's your birthday today so let us take over your duties. We'll take charge of the initial assessment then set his appointment for tomorrow morning."

Sakura smiled sympathetically, seeing her raven counterpart's perfectly arched brow twitching in annoyance. "Unfortunately, I'm his assigned physician so he's an exception." Turning to her pouting nurse, she ordered, "Inform the remaining patients to return tomorrow. I'm busy with paperwork so make sure no one disturbs me."

The nurse nodded meekly then left the room.

Noticing the other nurses' looks of admiration for her visitor, Sakura quickly shut the door. "Are you seriously here for a consultation?"

Sasuke shrugged.

Sighing, she bent down to retrieve the scattered documents on the floor. "I hope you don't mind but I'm busy at the moment so –"

"Naruto wasn't kidding when he said they rarely see you."

She briefly paused from her task.

Sasuke crouched as well, taking the stapled pages off her hands. The pinkette eyed him suspiciously as he tossed the document on the unfinished pile.

"Give me your time."

"Eh? But, I –"

He pulled her up and laced her fingers with his. "Fifteen minutes."

Heat crept up her cheeks as she looked down their joined hands.

"Hold on tight."

Knees still buckling from the pulling sensation, Sakura found themselves in front of the all-too-familiar bench overlooking the Ninja Academy.

"H-How did we end up…?"

"I transported us here," Sasuke answered nonchalantly, pulling a kunai embedded on the stone bench.

"But, we're miles away from the hospital, Sasuke-kun!" she exclaimed. "I can't be away for more than fifteen minutes."

"We'll be quick so don't worry about your paperwork," he replied, sitting on the bench then casually patted the space next to him.

Dumbfounded, Sakura plopped down beside him. He placed an elaborately-wrapped package on her lap and she regarded it with newfound curiosity. "What is this?"

He only shrugged.

The pinkette carefully unwrapped the package, revealing two take-out containers. Lifting the lid off the first container, her eyes widened at the five sticks of syrup-coated dumplings topped with red-bean paste. Quickly opening the next one, she stared wide-eyed at the hefty portion of anmitsu. "How did you…"

"I got it from the tea shop we frequented during our genin days," he explained, off-handedly. "Start eating if you want to go back on time."

The pinkette pouted. "I can't finish all these by myself!"

Sasuke smirked. "Back then, you used to finish five bowls of anmitsu. What difference will two make?"

"Mou, you're not taking my figure into consideration," Sakura sighed, spooning some anmitsu in her mouth. Her expression immediately lightened up as the sweet combination of fruits and syrupy jelly tickled her taste buds. "Mmm, delicious!"

It didn't take long and she devoured everything in five minutes flat.

Patting her mouth dry with a tissue, she set the empty containers aside. "That was good! The last time I had those was two months ago as a reward for helping Hinata decide the date for their wedding."

"Aa."

She smiled at his unexpectedly sweet gesture and entwined their hands together. "Thanks, Sasuke-kun. Today was very stressful so your timing was actually perfect. Sorry about that."

"For what?"

"For choosing to work on my birthday instead of celebrating it with you and our friends," Sakura mumbled, exasperated.

Sasuke rubbed circles on the inside of her wrist. "I don't mind. Even if I'm not here all the time, I know how committed you are to your duties. However, Naruto mentioned that you're being too hard on yourself lately."

"I'm fine."

"Don't make us idiots, Sakura."

Sakura sighed, finding her teammates ganging up on her work ethics appalling. "So I'm guessing you guys want me to take things slow from now on?"

"Aa."

Brief as always.

To others, his response was downright rude.

To her, it meant differently.

Sasuke rarely disclosed his sentiments so the sudden admonition caught her off-guard. It unexpectedly brought her a sense of comfort, instantly warming her heart. And to think she often doubted him for his lack of concern for her well-being. Naruto's explanation for Sasuke's subconscious way of protecting others finally made sense.

However, the fact he'll be leaving tomorrow morning brought the cloud of dread back within her.

"You're thinking of it again."

"I'm not."

"You're horrible at lying, Sakura."

"I wish you'd stay longer," she finally admitted. "I understand your journey hasn't ended, but, how long should I wait?"

Sasuke didn't respond, hand tightening around hers. He knew his self-imposed exile must come to an end and he had to decide whether to move onwards or return to Konoha. "I'm sorry for making you wait."

"Even so, you won't change your mind."

"Aa."

"Why don't we make a bet then?"

"On what?"

"On how long you'll keep me waiting."

His brow rose up in incredulity.

"Well," she explained, sheepish. "Prediction-wise, I'll be last to get married since I'll continue pining for a certain someone to come back. So, we'll bet to see how long that'll last."

"Hn."

"It'll be mortifying if Sai and Ino get married before us."

"Day One and you're already contemplating marriage."

Sakura grinned cheekily. "It'll eventually lead to that, right?"

Sasuke felt his cheeks heat up from her suggestion. As always, her straightforward nature never ceased. Somehow, it gave him…hope. "Instead of waiting, how about we bet on something else?"

"Like?"

"On how hopeful you are for that future."

Sakura's smooth forehead crinkled at his suggestion. "If it were me, I'd say immediately. Yet knowing you," she added as an afterthought, "it'll take a long time."

"That's why we're betting on it. Hoping for a future with several possibilities and different outcomes seems challenging, don't you think?"

She smiled at his suggestion. "A little foreboding but I like the way you said it."

"We'll try it now."

"Huh?"

"Let's see if you'll finish work in time for Naruto's party."

"You mean the 7 o'clock gathering at Yakiniku-Q?"

"Aa."

Sakura groaned, remembering the paperwork strewn haphazardly on her office floor. "That's definitely uncertain. Reviewing and signing those forms will take until midnight."

He gave her a teasing smile. "I'd say an hour."

She huffed at his odd display of confidence. "Arrogant prick. All right, let's do it."

"Heh."

Yakiniku-Q

8:00 PM

"Sakura-chaaaannnn, I'm so glad you made it!" Naruto hugged the birthday celebrant tightly. Although she arrived an hour late for their dinner celebration, the energetic blond was still happy that she squeezed a little of her time for them.

"Happy birthday, Sakura-san," Hinata greeted, handing her a pink paper bag tied with an elaborate ribbon. Sakura smiled and gave Naruto's wife a grateful hug.

Next were Ino and Sai who quickly engulfed the pinkette in a smothering hug. As usual, her motormouth friend spilled the beans regarding Idate's visit to her office, resulting with Sai asking his usual round of inane questions and switching Naruto's protective mode on.

Hinata pulled her irate husband aside, softly reprimanding him. While smiling at their antics, Sakura felt a towering presence behind her.

"Am I late for the party?"

"You're just in time, Kakashi-sensei," Sakura smiled, giving him a brief hug. Not one to demonstrate physical affection, he simply patted her on the head. He raised a brow at Naruto's thundercloud expression. "Mm? Is something wrong?"

"Idate is making moves on Sakura-chan!"

Eager for gossip, Kakashi looked back at Sakura who rolled her eyes. "Idate-san went to my office for a follow-up consultation. Don't believe whatever Ino says."

Ino feigned getting hurt from her accusations. "How can you say that to your best friend?"

"Because you're spreading unnecessary rumors."

Sai waved his hands placatingly. "Now, now, let's not ruin the celebration. Why don't we eat first then talk later?"

Kakashi readily agreed, sitting down. "Well, I have a very exhausting day so if you don't mind, let's get the party started."

Hinata lightly tugged her husband's arm. "Let's get ourselves seated, Naruto-kun."

Naruto grinned as they sat beside Kakashi. Ino sat next to Hinata while Sai took his seat opposite his girlfriend. It left Sakura no other choice but to occupy one of the empty seats beside Sai who noticed the unoccupied chair. "Are we expecting somebody?"

Ino drawled dreamily. "Yes, Sai-dear. We're expecting Sakura's potential suitor tonight."

"Since when did you have a suitor?" Naruto fumed, glaring at his female teammate who shook her head then at Kakashi who only shrugged while reading his favorite novel. "This 'suitor thing' is getting ridiculous! Does teme know about this?"

"Naruto-kun, you're killing the mood."

"My, my. My only female student in a love tryst while the significant other is away? This is juicy."

"Not helping, Kakashi-sensei!"

"That's Hokage-sama to you, Naruto."

"Naruto, for the sake of my birthday, please don't babble like a madman," Sakura warned in a low tone before signaling the waitress to approach their table. A petite girl with pigtails and cheerful smile on her lips approached them. "Welcome to Yakiniku-Q! Are you ready to order?"

The pinkette smiled back. "We'll avail the unlimited meat special and two pitchers of iced green tea, please. Oh, and another meat special to go."

The waitress wrote their orders then excused herself to get to the kitchen.

"Wow, someone's planning to pack on a few pounds," Naruto teased, wrapping an arm around his wife. "Your shift's not yet done?"

Sakura shook her head, fingers tapping lightly on the table. "Actually, I'm just here to pay tonight's dinner, grab my takeout then head home."

"What? So you're not gonna stay here and eat with us?" Ino asked, surprised. "After finally crawling out of your rabbit hole, you'll just ditch us?"

The pinkette laughed sheepishly. "Well…my original plan was to finish work early and relax at home. It's my first day-off after several months so I'm hoping you guys will understand if I leave first."

"We can move the party back to your apartment if you like," Sai offered, concerned for her health.

"Thanks, Sai. Maybe next time."

Naruto crossed his arms, grumbling. "I can't believe this. Just when you finally joined us." Bright blue eyes widened in realization. "Wait, a minute. Are you ditching us because of – ow!"

Kakashi eyed his student coolly, not regretting that he kicked him under the table. "Naruto, if Sakura wants to leave early then let her. I granted her the day-off so she'll relax and have time for...other things."

Before Naruto sputtered a retort, Ino gave Sakura an elaborately wrapped gift. "Here! I know you're always stressed so this will come in handy."

"Thanks, Ino."

Sai passed her a plain white box with a neatly tied pink bow at the center. "This is from me. It's my first work so I hope you'll like it."

"Thank you, Sai. Don't worry, I'll let you know what I think."

Nursing his sore foot, Naruto glared at their mentor who was occupied by his reading. "Your turn, Kakashi-sensei!"

"My turn for what?"

"Sakura-chan's gift!"

The older man tapped his chin, pretending to be in deep thought. "Oh, that? Mmm…I gave it to her already."

Everyone in the table stared at him with suspicious looks.

"What did you give her exactly?" Naruto inquired, doubt in his voice. His sensei rarely gave presents and if he did, it was probably a meal coupon for Ichiraku or that earlier pat on the head.

"Isn't it obvious? Her day-off was his present," Ino groaned, finding it unbelievable that their respectable leader was a cheapskate.

"How rude. I gave much thought on my gift and even had a hard time acquiring it."

"You're lying," Sai mused, sipping his water. "You're cooped up in the office for an entire day so there's no way you'll find the time to buy her a present."

Kakashi sighed, didn't like the way they underestimate his skills. Nevertheless, a knowing smile crossed his face as he stared at the rosette-haired medic. "All I can say is, mine is the most profound." He winked at her for emphasis. "Hope you liked it."

Sakura's face flushed from embarrassment, realizing his hint.

"You okay, Sakura-chan? You're red all over."

"I'm fine."

Hinata instantly went to Sakura's side. "Feverish is a sign of an upcoming flu. Want us to accompany you to the hospital?"

"No."

"I don't think she's sick," Ino concluded, pressing a hand on Sakura's forehead. Her fair visage scrunched up with concern. "However, you're most likely exhausted from all the paperwork Shizune-san gave you. Why don't we bring you home so you can rest?"

"I'll take her."

"We don't need help from you! Leave the rest to us. We'll bring her…" the blonde girl trailed off, eyes wide and mouth wide open at the person towering behind the pinkette. "…home."

Raven hair with haphazard spikes and pale smooth complexion.

Mismatched orbs and aloof expression replaced with genuine concern.

There was no mistaking it.

"No way…you, are you…"

Hinata's pale eyes widened in surprise as well. "Sa…Sasuke-kun?"

Said person responded with a short, "Hn."

Sai's usual blank expression was changed to genuine shock. "No way. You said you weren't coming for Naruto's wedding. If so, why are you here?"

Sasuke only shrugged, turning to Sakura. "Ready?"

The pinkette nodded, rising from her seat. Pulling a wad of bills from her coat pocket, she gave it to Naruto. "Here's the payment for tonight's dinner. Make sure you guys eat everything since its unlimited meat."

Still baffled, Naruto took the money. "What about the takeout?"

"Got it," Sasuke responded tersely, holding out a white plastic bag with the Styrofoam container inside for them to see.

Sakura took her place at his side. "We'll take our leave now. Enjoy the rest of the evening!" After waving their friends goodbye, the two subsequently left.

The entire restaurant fell into a brief calm.

Ino and Sai exchanged flabbergasted looks while Hinata smiled knowingly. On the other hand, Naruto grinned like a Cheshire cat when the waitress finally arrived with their orders.

Although Kakashi's expression was concealed by his mask, he knew everyone finally realized what his present was.

'After all, a sensei knows what's best for his little girl.'

"Unbelievable."

"What is?"

Sakura made a face as they walked back to her apartment. "You used the sharingan to speed read and forge my signature for those heinous documents."

"Hn."

The pinkette rolled her eyes. "I didn't know you can use your bloodline limit in such tasks. I always thought that you're the type to treat it as a special ability."

Sasuke shrugged, eyes focused on the path ahead of them. "Our bloodline limit isn't reserved for fighting. Sometimes you find other uses for it."

"Such as?"

He shrugged again.

She poked him lightly.

"Jerk."

"Annoying."

Both grinned.

Sakura smiled as she wrapped her arms around his bad arm, giving it an affectionate squeeze. Staring at the stoic man beside her, she couldn't help but admire the changes he underwent for the past two years. He'll keep growing and sooner than later, she'll be staring at his chin.

Their earlier conversation popped up in her head.

Leaning against his arm, she spoke. "I'm changing our bet."

Sasuke inclined his head slightly towards her direction. This considerate nod boosted her confidence. "Instead of hoping for that future, how about looking forward to it?"

When he didn't answer, she continued. "Hoping for an uncertain future is too ominous," she elaborated, hoping he'd catch her drift. "By anticipating it beforehand then…"

"Looking forward is awfully similar to waiting."

"And hoping isn't?" She countered, glancing at his blank expression. "I'd rather anticipate things and do something about it than hope for nothing."

"Hn."

Knowing she got his full attention, Sakura strongly declared, "No matter how uncertain things get, we'll deal with it together. Whether you like it or not, I'm looking forward to facing the future with you, Uchiha Sasuke."

If Sasuke weren't carrying their takeout, he would've palmed his face. Though his usual poker face was on, the tips of his ears were pink. The pinkette was amazed that he could use his aloof façade to conceal embarrassment.

Unsurprisingly, he chuckled.

It wasn't the loud, obnoxious kind yet the slight rumbling tone sounded…manly.

However, the fact he found her explanation humorous didn't sit well with her. "Why are you laughing?"

"Hn."

"Sasuke-kun."

"Sakura."

She dug her heels on the ground. "We're not moving until you tell me."

He smirked. "Your rules."

"You find it funny?"

"No," he whispered, leaning slightly so his lips were inches away from her ear. "It's just the way you said it sounds more like a proposal."

Their close proximity to each other prevented his words to register properly in her mind.

"And since you called my name out loud..." Sasuke trailed off, eyes locked behind Sakura's back.

Baffled, she quickly turned around.

Only to wish she hadn't.

Her sudden announcement caused everyone to stop what they're doing and were staring at them. Girls of varying ages who were obviously attracted to Sasuke's dark looks giggled uncontrollably while most of the men who were also her patients gawked hopelessly from the sidelines.

Adding to the fact that she was a renowned medical specialist and Sasuke's enigmatic identity finally revealed, it certainly caused an uproar.

Realizing what her little tirade caused, her hands flung out to cover her heated face. 'I didn't mean to make it sound…like…like that!'

Noting her heightening apprehension, Sasuke glared at the crowd who quickly dispersed. He then took the embarrassed pinkette's hand and pulled her along.

The rest of the walk was relatively quiet. Not soon after, they eventually found themselves on the same spot.

The bench.

The two plopped down in relief. Trying to shake the embarrassing moment off her mind, Sakura focused on the academy instead. It was already nighttime and there were no people lurking within the vicinity.

It was just the two of them.

She heard him sigh.

He listened to her giggle.

Black met green.

"Earlier was really…"

"…annoying."

Sakura laughed, watching the moon rise above the darkened building. "I didn't expect that we'd attract a huge crowd." She gave him a teasing smile. "Just like before, your popularity didn't wane. You should've seen how they looked at you earlier."

"Like they're about to kill me."

"Why would you confuse lustful looks with murder?"

"I meant those men earlier."

"Oh."

Sasuke shrugged, leaning against the bench. "It doesn't matter."

"Most men get protective if they caught others looking at their women."

"Hn."

Sakura feigned hurt, mouth poised in a graceful pout. "I've seen Naruto and Sai get angry whenever guys ogle at Ino and Hinata. They never hesitate in beating them up."

"So, you want those men to end up with holes in their chests."

"And then I'll be summoned in the hospital for an emergency procedure because you got all nasty on them?"

"Hn."

Knowing Sasuke wasn't the type to lie or make jokes, Sakura remembered how Idate got pecked into a bloody mess by his falcon during Naruto's wedding. "Sasuke-kun."

"Aa."

"Did you train your falcon to attack any man who tries to hit on me?" Sakura asked, out-of-the-blue. She glanced up to see his expression –

Only to find his usual aloof one. "You think I have the time to do such a thing?"

"Well, no but –" she faltered, observing him. Though he wore a stony expression, his ears were seriously red. Sakura's eyes slightly widened at her discovery. 'Back then, he was really…'

She barely finished that thought out of pure happiness.

'This isn't a dream. We really are…'

Together.

Happiness bubbled inside her as she rested her head on his shoulder. "This isn't how I thought my birthday should go."

Sasuke's hand curled around her nape, massaging the tense muscles. Sakura felt the knots loosening from the firm and heavy pressure of his fingers. "Mm. That feels nice."

Once he finished, she took his hand. The pinkette copied his earlier ministrations on his upturned palm. "If it were an ordinary guy who said those things, I would find it as a joke. Since it's you…somehow, I knew you meant every word."

Her statement piqued Sasuke's interest. If he wasn't trained in the shinobi ways and didn't have Indra's blood flowing in his veins then he would be –

Ordinary.

"Sakura," he began, causing her to look at him. "If things were ordinary, wouldn't it be better?" When she didn't respond, he continued, "Frankly, I don't see myself doing these things – sitting on the bench next to you and talking about…"

"Ordinary stuff?"

"Aa."

Humming a soft tune, Sakura dug her fingers even more and relished the feel of his rough calluses on her fingertips. "Like you, I don't see myself doing those romantic stuff like going on dates…"

"Funny how you asked me out several times before."

"Can you blame me if I was a naïve love struck girl back then?"

"Hn."

Without a word, Sakura leaned toward him and brushed her petal soft lips across his.

Sasuke blinked at the sudden act.

When the rosette pulled back, her hand rested on his cheek. "I'm afraid we can't be ordinary people, Sasuke-kun. We're shinobi who overcame all the crazy hardships in life and defeated a goddess who wanted to turn our bodies into bleached mindless beings. Not to mention, you and Naruto turned out to be actual reincarnations of the Sage of Six Paths' sons which only existed in old tales."

"You made it sound like the dobe and I are extremists."

"Oh, don't get me started on that time you fought and decimated the Valley of the End into smithereens. Seriously, ordinary people can't do those crazy feats."

"Hn."

She grinned. "Regardless, I look forward to that future with you. In spite of uncertainties that lie ahead of us, we'll deal with it together. Life wouldn't be any less ordinary as long as I'm with you. And that's what makes it worthwhile don't you think?"

Kami-sama, it made him think.

They weren't ordinary people.

They were two-thirds of the famed Team Seven and inherited the title of Sannin from their respective mentors.

They defeated the progenitor of chakra known as Kaguya and dispelled the Infinite Tsukoyomi.

Until his idiotic best friend becomes Hokage, they will continue to safeguard the entire shinobi world for future generations.

Sakura was right. Those weren't ordinary feats.

Even so, Sasuke was impressed at her ability to reverse the insecurities and negative views inside his head into positive outlooks. Her warm acceptance of his dark nature brought back feelings of belongingness – something that was already lost. The roots he once thought uprooted by his defection actually remained, clinging onto dry earth.

Despite of denying himself countless times, he will always have a place in Konoha.

A home.

Mismatched orbs smoldered as he grasped her nape. Sakura tilted her face to the side and he bent forward to capture her lips.

It wasn't a heated lip lock like yesterday.

Sasuke wasn't good with words so the only way he could express himself was through his actions. When they pulled back for air and his eyes met hers –

Everything made sense.

What connected him back to the village was her unwavering faith. Even though he'll leave tomorrow to continue his journey, as long as she kept believing in him – he will return.

The past he didn't choose.

The present he didn't want.

The future he didn't decide.

No matter what unforeseeable circumstances thrown in their way, they will not waver. No words could better describe the connection they shared with each other.

Theirs was a deep bond which is beyond words.

Even though it was her special day, he was the one who received a more thoughtful present.

Like her, he was looking forward to that uncertain future.

A/N: And that's the end of "A Simple Message!" To everyone who alerted and favorited this story, thank you very much! For those who took the time in giving their insight, you get an imaginary chocolate chip cookie! Now that I finally finished with this story, I can finally concentrate on "Aftermath." Feel free to check the story out and give me a holler once you do. Thanks again!

Oh, and for those who are wondering what happened to Idate...

A Simple Message: OMAKE

He was depressed.

Today was his departure for Tea Country and even though he was happy that Naruto accompanied him to the gates, he couldn't help but wonder why Sakura didn't show up at the party last night. When he asked Naruto, he reacted shiftily, eyes darting back and forth on their surroundings. "Well, she had other things to do! You know her, she's a very busy medic ehehehe..."

Idate took his response into account, understanding her busy schedule. After bidding Naruto farewell, he went on his way. He was just a few feet away from the village when he heard voices coming through the forest. Straining his ears, his countenance perked up as he recognized one of voices belonged to the pretty pinkette. Eager to hear more, he stealthily approached her – only to find she was talking to someone.

A rather tall, intimidating person fully clad in black.

"You sure you got everything?"

"Hn."

'That is Sakura-san, but who's that guy?' Idate thought angrily. Judging from the man's towering physique and wary attitude he must be a rogue nin. 'Why do I get the feeling that I'm intruding into something private?'

Although he was flabbergasted that Sakura wasn't daunted by the raven-haired man's frightening presence as she continued talking.

"Please extend my regards to Yamato-taicho also. The medicines he requested are in your pack so be sure to hand it to him."

"Aa."

His response sounded more like a grunt yet it made Sakura smile.

It took Idate's breath away and he knew right then and there that he lost. Slowly stepping away from the tree he was hiding at, he failed to notice something swooped past him and before he knew it –

His loud cry echoed throughout the woods.

…

"What was that?"

"I think Wagashi caught a nosy rat."