I'm sorry this is a day late I had finals and vacation and I basically wrote this in two days and it's the longest chapter. I swear they just get longer and longer. Anyway thank-you to DarkKoii, Dina Sana, Jacqueline, mseclair, ayingChan, sleeplygirl, McKazekage, Toreh, angelbabygirl36, hyperblossomfan, Nitany, joys, Gaara's Plaything, Guest, 24kk, Slytherin4ever, xxxSoulmates4everxxx, Starberryblossom, Katherine S, The Last Deathly Guardian, river of the sand, ummIDK, PurpleLup, Mistress Persephone, Analelle, Guest, coeurcasse, and Guest for reviewing I really appreciate it. And a special thanks to my Beta for all of their hard work

Beta:x13utterflyx

Disclaimer: I don't own Naruto. Is Sakura with Itachi or Kakashi…no, then I obviously have nothing to do with Naruto besides writing fanfiction that will never become a reality.

"I now pronounce you husband and wife."

The crowd erupted into cheers and Itachi saw a single tear roll down the Hokage's face as her first apprentice kissed her new husband.

"They sure are beautiful together, aren't they?" a smiling Shisui said from beside him. The two had been selected as groomsmen and the copy-nin himself was the groom's best man. He had actually shown up early for the first time in nearly twenty years and if that didn't say anything about Genma and the copy-nin's friendship, Itachi didn't know what would.

Itachi looked across the aisle to see a beaming Kurenai in the maid of honor dress with a smirking Anko and a tearful Sakura next to her in matching bridesmaids dresses.

Itachi felt his chest ache as he looked at Sakura. She looked stunning and he felt something else ache when he noticed how her dress clung to her curves. The green material made her emerald eyes stand out and her hair was hanging down her shoulder in loose curls. Itachi felt his hand twitch with the urge to test if they were as silky as they looked.

"You guys ready for a wild night?" Kakashi asked.

"No bigger turn on than a wedding," Shisui said, rolling his eyes.

"Ah, but all the single people will start thinking about their nonexistent love lives which will make for a very…loose after party," Kakashi said, his masked lips turning up in a smile. Shisui opened his mouth to respond but then shut it as a wolfish smile took over his face.

"You two are terrible," Itachi said, shaking his head.

"Well how about we determine who's the most terrible by the amount of times we've been slapped in the past two weeks. Let's see, zero for me," Shisui said with a smirk.

"Zero," Kakashi agreed, his eyes mischievous as they eyed Itachi.

"I would advise you two to keep quiet," Itachi said through gritted teeth.

"Why keep quiet? It's not like there's anyone in the village who hasn't heard about it. Even the academy kids laugh at you," Shisui said, chuckling as Itachi was about to reach out and strangle him when a boisterous laugh sounded behind him.

"Guys," Genma called out, cheerfully bringing in the three men in for a hug. "I'm so glad you guys are here."

"Genma we haven't left your side in over four hours," Itachi said dryly and Genma looked almost teary eyed.

"No, you're wrong! You haven't left my side since I joined your team six years ago. I love you so much," he said, pulling Itachi and Shisui in for a tight hug. Itachi made a note to kick his ass in the next training session. After he was done with his annoying cousin.

"Genma, we need to get to the bar unless you want Mrs. Shiranui to be alone at her reception," Kakashi said whilst pushing Genma out the door. Genma grinned and ran up to his wife who was hugging a teary eyed Tsunade.

"They grow up so fast," Shisui said, wiping imaginary tears from his eyes. He then grinned and wrapped his arms around Kakashi and Itachi's shoulder's. "I hope you two are ready to party!"

"Can't wait," Itachi said, pushing Shisui away from him.

The three men made their way out of the small tent where the ceremony was held and walked out where a huge walkway was set up like a festival with a large dance floor in the middle.

Kakashi let out a low whistle. "Damn, they really went all out."

"That's pretty easy to do when you have the Hokage paying for your wedding," Itachi said, eyeing the scene. "I feel bad for the genin she forced to set this place up."

"Don't. Those brats deserve it," a disgruntled voice came from behind them.

"Asuma, where've you been?" Kakashi asked.

"I've been supervising the set up," Asuma told them. "My team was assigned with setting up the bar."

"That must have been fun," Itachi said, eyeing the dozen genin who were bickering at one of the tables next to the dance floor.

"I swear to Kami that I'm going to kill those brats one day," Asuma hissed, opening up a pack of cigarettes. "They're the spawn of Orochimaru, I'm telling you."

"That does sound bad," Kakashi admitted and Asuma glared at him.

"You've only had to teach one team. One. This is my third one and they only get worse."

"Wow, thanks, sensei."

Everyone turned around to see a smirking Ino in a dress that looked like it was designed to be a shirt.

For someone half her size.

"Ino," Asuma tiredly said.

"Don't worry, I'm not here to bug you, sensei," Ino said running her fingers up his chest. Asuma seemed to flinch, but Ino's true intentions became clear when she yanked his cigarette from out between his teeth.

"So why are you here?" he asked as he glared at his student.

"I'm here for Uchiha-san, Shisui-kun, and Kakashi-sensei," the blonde chirped, eyeing the three men. "It's time for the dances."

Kakashi looked like he was about to make a hand sign so Itachi grabbed his wrist.

"I don't think so," he said coldly and he then gave a smile to the blonde who he now recognized as the girl in Sakura's apartment. Must be her roommate, he mused to himself. "Where do we need to go, Yamanaka-san?"

"Just head over to where Genma-san is standing," she told him, pointing to where his teammate was doing a jittery dance that made it look like he was about to wet himself. "Calm him down a bit, if you can."

"Will do, Ino-chan," Shisui said, giving the girl a wink. Ino rolled her eyes and shooed the boy away.

"She's so hot," Shisui said looking back at the blonde.

"And taken," Kakashi supplied.

"Stupid Nara boy," Shisui growled as they walked up to Genma.

"What's wrong with Shikamaru?" Genma asked whilst eyeing his friends as he continued his 'I've gotta pee dance'.

"Nothing," Itachi said. "And would you stop that?" he asked, exasperated.

"Geez, who pissed in your cheerios?"

"It's more like who slapped them out of him..." Shisui said, smirking. Genma's eyes lit up in recognition before they gave Itachi a scathing glance.

"Oh yeah I heard about that. I can't believe you kissed her."

"Neither can I," Kakashi said, his eye looking slightly annoyed before it lit up in glee once more. "But at least we know Sakura can defend herself against perverts."

"Excuse me?" Itachi asked irritated. "I am not a pervert."

"So what, you kissed her against her will because you like her?" Kakashi asked before he cupped his chin with his hand. "I had no idea that that was Uchiha protocol. You learn new things every day."

Itachi felt his sharingan flare. "How dare y-"

"And now the groom and bride will dance their first dance." The four men all looked up at the DJ before looking back at Genma who looked like he was about to pass out.

"You're more scared of dancing than actually getting married," Itachi mumbled to himself. "Genma, go. Now."

Genma gave him a tight smile and then walked onto the middle of the dance floor where he grabbed hold of a beaming Shizune.

I'm not a perfect person

There's many things I wish I didn't do

But I continue learning

I never meant to do those things to you

And so I have to say before I go

That I just want you to know

Itachi felt his face soften as he watched his friend dance. For such a skilled shinobi he was a horrible dancer but judging from the grin on Shizune's face, she didn't mind.

"Isn't that sweet?" Shisui cooed.

"You're ruining the moment," Itachi told him and Shisui glared at him.

"At least I know how to smile," he retorted and Itachi didn't bother with a reply. For what was supposed to be a pleasant and happy day, Itachi found it to be a very annoying and a test of his patience.

"Now we would like the groomsmen and bridesmaids to make their way out, along with the best man and the maid of honor," the DJ announced and Itachi cursed himself for not noticing the song had ended. He walked up and he saw Sakura cast him a weary look.

Kakashi and Kurenai paired up seeing as they were the maid of honor and the best man. This left Anko and Sakura to him and Shisui. He was about to tell Shisui to take Sakura when his idiot cousin grabbed Anko who gave Itachi a wink. Sakura looked slightly horrified but she quickly cleared her expression.

"Uchiha-san," she greeted. He nearly winced. She had called him Itachi before the incident. Had he really been demoted to a stranger once again?

"Haruno-san," he replied, his tongue twitching to just say her name before taking a step forward. He felt rather annoyed with himself as he hesitated before holding his hand out. He had killed more S-class criminals than he could count but some girl had him weak in the knees. How pathetic.

Sakura took his hand and he nearly yanked his hand back when he felt the sparks go up his arm. This girl was making him act like some lovesick puppy.

Itachi for the second time in the past few weeks gave in to his urges and pulled Sakura closer. He placed his hands around her waist as the song started.

And I'd give up forever to touch you'

Cause I know that you feel me somehow

You're the closest to heaven that I'll ever be

And I don't want to go home right now

Itachi held Sakura close as they gently swayed to the music. Sakura had her hands on his shoulders and Itachi found himself annoyed that she wouldn't even look at him.

"Is something wrong, Haruno-san?"

She turned to him with a fire in her eyes. "Seriously?"

"Yes, seriously," Itachi said and a quick flash of amusement flitted through her eyes before she looked somber once more.

"I don't like playing games, Uchiha-san," she said gravely and Itachi was surprised by her answer.

"Games? I'm afraid I don't understand, Haruno-san," Itachi told her and she scoffed.

"Look you don't have to lie. If this is some bet with Genma or Shisui about my love life, tell them to back off. I have plenty of guys who are interested - I don't need their pity."

"Trust me, I've noticed," Itachi said remembering their mission.

"Well then if it's just a bet to mes-"

"There is no bet," Itachi said, exasperated. "Is it so hard to believe that I'm interested in you?"

The second the words were out of Itachi's mouth, he regretted them. What happened to his perfect self control? As he looked into a pair of surprised Emerald eyes he knew. It had left him when his heart had fallen into the grasp of a certain pinkette.

"Y-you like me?"

"Yes, if you had bothered to talk to me," he said, glaring at her as he remembered the sting of her slap,

"I would have informed you."

"Oh," Sakura said, looking rather embarrassed.

"Hey! The song's over," a familiar and obnoxious voice said. Itachi looked to see a rather put out Naruto standing next to him.

"We're in the midd-"

"Oh, I should be going," Sakura said, separating herself from Itachi. He felt like he'd been punched in the gut. Was she really going to just walk away? He hadn't thought that she had returned his feelings, the slap crushed that hope, but getting rejected so soundly was rather crushing.

"Come on, Sakura-chan," Naruto yelled as he pulled her to where the self proclaimed 'Konoha 12' were standing.

"So, you do like her."

Itachi turned to see his otouto standing there with a shocked expression on his face. Itachi stiffened as his brother looked at him with a scrutinizing expression.

"What are you up to?" Sasuke questioned, his eyes suspicious.

"I don't understand your question, otouto," Itachi said wearily. He was not in the mood for an interrogation - he just wanted to go home. Maybe get a little drunk.

"If you mess with her, I'll kill you," Sasuke threatened with an icy tone. Itachi felt a surge of irritation go through him.

"I am not 'messing with her', and even if I was," Itachi paused, making sure Sasuke could see his Sharingan. "You couldn't lay a finger on me."

"You wanna bet?" Sasuke asked whilst taking a step towards him. Itachi felt through his suit where a kunai lay. Before he could a flash of silver entered his vision and his view of his brother was blocked by a certain copy-nin.

"Look, I understand that you two can't go five seconds without wanting to kill each other but today is a special day for my friend and I'll kill you before you ruin it. OK?" Kakashi asked, his usually gleeful eye narrowed. Both Uchiha men gave a quick nod and Kakashi straightened out. Itachi watched as the copy-nin lifted a copy of Jiraiya's famous book and started making his way to where Anko and a few other jounin were sitting. Despite his departure, Itachi knew the copy-nin was still watching them and while he was one of the most skilled ninja in the five nations he knew that angering Hatake Kakashi wasn't a wise decision.

"I still want you to answer my question," Sasuke said, looking back at him. Itachi looked up at his brother and sighed.

"I have no intentions of messing with Sakura, Sasuke."

"So you actually like her..." Sasuke said in wonder. "I didn't even know you liked girls."

"When have I ever made any indication that I am attracted to men?" Itachi glared at his little brother. Sasuke shrugged before smirking.

"Well at Genma's party last ye-"

"I was drunk and from the back the Hyuuga boy doesn't look like a man," Itachi argued. "And besides I just asked him how he was doing. You're the one who kiss-"

"Don't talk about that," Sasuke hissed, looking around.

"It's not like anyone in the village hasn't heard about it," Itachi scoffed and Sasuke glared at him.

"Like anyone hasn't heard about Sakura's reaction to your kiss last week. Hell, the whole village could hear it."

"Don't talk about stuff you don't understand," Itachi growled and Sasuke stiffened before he gave a dry chuckle.

"How hard is it to understand that she doesn't want you?"

"And what, she wants you?" Itachi asked and Sasuke winced. "Don't tell me you like your ex-teammate, too? I wonder how the jinchuuriki would take that."

"Shut up!"

"Sorry, did I strike a nerve?"

"Neither of us likes her, aniki," Sasuke said, clenching his fist. "But that doesn't mean we want her to date someone like you."

"And what's wrong with me?"

"You wouldn't treat her right," he said and Itachi felt slightly offended.

"I wouldn't treat her right?"

"Work would always be first with you. She would always be second and the clan would pick her apart. They would want her to retire from active duty and stay home and play matriarch. Sakura would hate that and it would kill her when they started deciding the fate of your children. Imagine her face when she realizes her daughters aren't allowed to be ninja," Sasuke said scornfully.

"What makes you assume I would go through with that?" Itachi asked quietly and Sasuke scoffed.

"You've been the clan's bitch ever since I can remember. Sakura would just be another offering to the-"

"Shut up!"

Itachi could feel his brother's surprised gaze on him but he was too busy staring at the ground trying to keep himself from choking his otouto. He couldn't believe his own brother would think so low of him.

Should he ever get to the point of making Sakura his wife he would never treat her so awfully. He respected her as a ninja, it was why he had chosen her for his team in the first place. He also planned on replacing the Uchiha elders and possibly getting rid of them altogether when he became head. He knew the pressures they put on the main family and he knew his childhood was not normal or even enjoyable. He planned on something different for his kids and the clan as a whole.

"I would never treat Sakura like that or our children. I respect her far too much to ever make her give up what she loves," Itachi said and when he looked up Sasuke was giving him an almost pitying glance.

"You really like her, don't you?"

"I wouldn't go that far," Itachi said, standing up straight. "But she does interest me and I'd appreciate it if you didn't interfere."

"Alright," Sasuke conceded. "I'll leave you alone, on one condition."

"What?"

"If you ever do, marry her," Sasuke winced. "Don't treat her like Dad treats Mom. She deserves better."

"I promise," Itachi said solemnly and the two men stood there quietly before Sasuke cleared his throat.

"I should be heading back to my friends," Sasuke said and Itachi gave him a small wave before the man disappeared off to where most of the Konoha 12 were sitting. Although a very important person was missing from their table.

"Uchiha-san?"

And there she was.

"Haruno-san," he greeted. "Do you need something?"

"Did you mean it?" she asked and he raised a brow.

"You will have to be more specific, Haruno-san," he told her and he loved how her cheeks became tainted with a pink color that matched her hair.

"Did you mean it when you said you... when you said you like me," she asked, finally looking up to stare him right in the eyes.

"I do not joke about such things, Haruno-san," he told her, wondering where she was going with all these questions.

"Oh," she said, biting her lip. Those adorable, luscious li-

"I do too," she told him and Itachi was floored.

"You 'do too' what?" he asked as his heartbeat sped up.

"I like you too," she said, her voice strong. Itachi felt himself froze and he studied her eyes for any sign of falseness but he only saw determination and beneath that he was surprised to see a hint of anxiety. She appeared to be even more nervous than he was. Not that he was nervous.

"Oh," he said, mimicking her. She rolled her eyes at him before crossing her arms.

"So…."

"So," he copied and she glared at him.

"Aren't you going to say something?"

"I said "oh" and "so", I believe that is 'something'," he teased and she threw her hands up in frustration.

"Well I thought you would ask me out," she yelled. "Not be a complete pain in the as-"

"I'd watch what you say or I might make you pay the bill," Itachi said and Sakura looked up at him in shock.

"Bill?"

"Yes, it's something you get at restaurants after you have eaten," Itachi told her as if she was a small child.

"A restaurant...?" she asked shyly, ignoring his teasing.

"Yes, it's where I'll be taking you tomorrow."

"Tomorrow?"

"So many questions..." Itachi mused. "Yes, next friday, at six sharp. I'll pick you up. Same apartment as before, correct?"

"Right," she said, sounding dazed before she quickly shook herself and gave him a small smile. "I guess I'll see you tomorrow then, Uchiha-san," she told him as she turned to go. Itachi immediately grabbed her and pulled her to him. He felt her shiver as his breath touched her neck.

"I thought I told you to call me Itachi - you used to," he said, holding a piece of her hair. It wasn't as soft as it looked, he mused. It was even softer; it felt better than the silks that decorated the Uchiha manor.

"Sorry, Itachi," she said, sounding breathless which delighted Itachi.

"That's better, Sakura."

He held her for another few seconds before he let her go. She stepped away from him a little shaky before she gave him a little wave and ran over to her friends who appeared to not even notice the whole scene.

"So what was that about?"

If only his friends were so oblivious.

"That was me talking to Sakura, Shisui."

"It didn't look like a lot of talking was going on," Shisui commented dryly.

"Well it was."

"Uh-huh."

"It was."

"I believe you."

"You're such a liar."

"I wasn't the one grinding up on the team medic and then passing it off as talking." Shisui snorted.

"We were talking!"

Itachi arrived at Sakura's apartment at exactly six o'clock sharp. No sooner had he knocked the door was flown open. He was quite surprised to see a smirking blonde at the door rather than a blushing pinkette.

"Hello there," the Yamanaka purred and Itachi almost flinched.

"Hello, Yamanaka-san," he said politely. "Is Sakura here?"

"Huh, oh yeah forehead is just finishing up. OI! Forehead your boytoy is here," Ino yelled and Itachi was pretty sure everyone in the apartment complex heard the boisterous woman.

Wait, boytoy?

"I'm coming piggy, hold your bacon," Sakura called out before she stepped out into the living room. Itachi was pleasantly surprised to see her once again in a dress. It was a casual sundress but it looked beautiful on her. The light blue made both her eyes and hair pop without clashing. It was a rather miraculous feat if he said so himself. Not to mention the neckline. That was definitely pleasing to the eye.

"You look beautiful," Itachi told her and he held back a smirk as her face turned bright red. The blushing medic quickly cleared her throat and smiled up at him.

"You look nice as well, Itachi," she said walking up to him. "I'll see you later, piggy."

"Get some, forehead," Ino told her and Sakura slammed the door shut as she began to do some rather graphic pelvic thrusts.

"Don't mind her I think she was dropped when she was a baby. A lot," Sakura said looking rather embarrassed at her friend's antics.

"You have met Shisui right?" Itachi asked and Sakura winced.

"You're right you've got it much worse than I do," she said in mock pity.

"You have no idea," Itachi mumbled thinking back to his cousin and Genma's actions the past few months. It was like their goal in life was to embarrass him as much as possible.

"So where are we going?" Sakura asked as they made their way out of the apartment.

"You'll see," Itachi said and he smirked when Sakura huffed at his statement.

"Why can't you just tell me?" she asked pouting and Itachi shrugged.

"It's more fun this way," he said simply and she growled.

"For who?"

"For me, of course," he told her and Sakura rolled her eyes.

"You're awful," she told him and he just shook his head before stopping. Itachi let out a small chuckle when Sakura continued to walk even without him beside her. After a few seconds Sakura froze and turned back to face him, her cheeks a dark red.

"Hey! Warn me when you stop, would you," she yelled before walking back over to him.

"I just assumed a ninja of your caliber w-"

"Would have better senses, I know," Sakura finished for him.

"Well if you know that then why don't you try to fix it," Itachi said and she glared at him.

"I like to relax on my days off, not keep my guard up against my own captain," Sakura scoffed and Itachi chuckled. Sakura glared at him before her face morphed into confusion. "Why are we even standing here?"

"This is the restaurant," Itachi said and he held back a smile at Sakura's appalled face.

"This is where we're eating?" she asked looking the building up and down. It looked like little a rundown storage facility and Itachi eyed the dirty building up and down. It definitely wasn't much to look at but it was what lay inside that interested him.

"Don't you trust me?"

"With my life," Sakura answered immediately and Itachi couldn't help the warm feeling that entered his chest at her statement.

"Then let's go," he said softly and Sakura bit her lip before giving him a brief nod. Itachi opened the door for her and he felt a smile creep onto his face at the gasp she uttered at seeing the building's inside.

Itachi walked in and shut the door behind him and he had to admit the interior was quite impressive. He had never been to the place before but when deciding where he and Sakura would go he had recalled Genma talking about a 'freakin' amazing' hole in the wall he had taken Shizune to. Apparently the Hokage had given Genma the address.

The restaurant looked like a huge garden complete with several koi ponds. Every table was secluded from eyesight and it was only the occasional tinkle of laughter that alerted Itachi to the other occupants' presence.

"Hello, welcome to the Black Iris, how may I help you," a young waitress chirped, walking up to them.

"Table for two," Itachi said and the waitress nodded.

"Right this way."

Itachi placed his hand on the small of Sakura's back as the pair headed for their table. The waitress led them to a table that was in the back of the restaurant. Sakura was too busy gaping at the restaurant itself to notice where they were going.

The waitress ducked under a few trees and crossed a bridge that lay across a small pond before gesturing to where a small table sat.

"Is this alright?"

"It's perfect," Itachi said, sliding her a tip. The waitress gave him a small wink before leaving the two alone. Itachi pulled out a chair and Sakura sat down still gazing at her surroundings.

"This place is beautiful," Sakura whispered and Itachi was glad that she was impressed. Coming here had been a huge gamble considering he had never been himself but it had definitely payed off.

"I'm glad you like it," Itachi told her.

"Where are the menus?" Sakura asked, looking at their empty table.

"They serve everyone the same meal; it's a mystery until they serve it. Part of the mystique," Itachi said, remembering Genma's description of the place. Sakura nodded before her eyes lit up in recognition.

"I've heard of this place before! Genma took Shizune here for their first anniversary last year," Sakura said and then a mischievous gleam entered her eyes. "You're taking dating advice from Genma?"

"Actually he heard about it from the Hokage so I'd say I'm taking advice from one of the most gifted ninja to ever exist," he said coolly and Sakura smirked.

"Who's also still single"

"Really? I thought she was seeing Jiraiya-san," Itachi said puzzled. Sakura groaned.

"Don't even talk about that."

"So they're not seeing each other?" Itachi asked and Sakura pressed her fingers to her temples.

"I have no idea what's going on with those two. They're more confusing than Shikamaru and Ino sometimes..." she said, shaking her head.

"I'm sure your shishou appreciates the comparison," Itachi said dryly. Before Sakura could make any further comments, their waitress stepped out of the foliage with two steaming trays in her hands.

"Your food," she informed them. "Tonight we're serving grilled salmon with a side of miso-glazed eggplant," the waitress said, setting down the plates. "Would you like some sake to accompany your meal?"

"Do you have Junmai Daiginjo-shu?" Itachi asked and the waitress smiled.

"We sure do, I'll be right back with that."

"Damn, Shishou will be so jealous when she hears about this tomorrow," Sakura told him, letting out a little whistle. "That's her favorite."

"Do you have a preference?" Itachi asked as the waitress came back with their bottle.

"Not really, I'm not much of a drinker," Sakura said, lifting a piece of eggplant to her mouth.

"So you don't follow all of your Shishou's footsteps?"

"Not at all," Sakura said.

The two ate in silence for a few minutes before Sakura set her chopsticks down.

"So what do you like to do besides going on missions and terrorizing your team medic?" Sakura asked and Itachi chuckled.

"I enjoy reading, that's usually what I do on my days off. Either that or I go play a game of shogi at the Nara compound with Shikamaru."

"You know Shikamaru?" Sakura asked, surprised and Itachi nodded.

"He is my first choice as a teammate should anything happen to Shisui or Genma," Itachi told her and Sakura's eyes widened.

"He's in ANBU?"

"Yes, has been for about a year now," Itachi informed her and Sakura whistled.

"I had no idea. Does Ino know?" she asked and Itachi nodded.

"She's aware. From what he says she disapproves."

"It is rather frightening," Sakura admitted and Itachi raised his eyebrows.

"I'm sure she thinks the same about you. Your teammates didn't approve of your promotion either," he told her and Sakura nodded.

"I know, but it's different with Shikamaru," she told him.

"How so?"

"She's in love with him," Sakura said simply. "Shizune hates that Genma is in ANBU as well. It's not a very safe profession."

"I doubt he'll be in it for too much longer," Itachi told her.

"Did he tell you that?" Sakura asked and Itachi shook his head.

"No but Genma didn't have a father growing up and I know he wouldn't put his own child through that. It's not a happy life," he told her and Sakura looked down at her plate.

"I didn't know that," she said and Itachi sighed.

"He doesn't like to talk about it," Itachi told her and then he shook his head. "We should be talking about happier things; this conversation isn't a good way to spend an evening."

"You're right," Sakura said, giving him a small smile. "You save all the sad topics for the second date."

"I hope not," Itachi said and she laughed. "So tell me about the hospital. You still work there, don't you?"

"Yeah, I try to work there when we don't have missions. I really enjoy it," she said, smiling.

"What department do you work in?"

"It depends, sometimes I work in the ER; other times I spend the day delivering babies. I just go where they need help," Sakura told him.

"Do you have a preference?"

"I like working with children. It's always fun especially the academy kids," she said with a fond smile.

"Excuse me, I hate to interrupt, but are you finished with your meal?" the waitress said, gesturing to their empty plates.

"Yes, thank-you," Sakura said and the waitress grabbed their plates.

"Would you like dessert?"

Itachi looked over at Sakura and she shook her head. "I'm afraid not. Can I have the check?" he requested and the waitress nodded. She quickly returned and Itachi slipped some bills into the holder.

He turned to Sakura. "Would you like to go home?"

"I should," she said sighing. "I have an early shift at the hospital tomorrow."

Itachi held out his hand and he helped her up. The two made their way out of the restaurant and they started walking towards Sakura's apartment.

"So, do we have a mission soon?" Sakura asked as they made their way down the dark streets.

"Tsunade gave us the month off. She says we need a rest but I'm sure she didn't want to take away her apprentice's husband away right after the wedding."

"She's a lot softer than she wants people to believe," Sakura said.

"As is the case with most shinobi," he agreed.

"Is it the same with you Itachi? Are you really just a softie?" Sakura asked teasingly and Itachi smirked.

"Never," he told her. Sakura rolled her eyes and Itachi's gaze lowered to where her hand swung next to her side. Before he could convince himself otherwise he grabbed her hand and gently laced his fingers through her own. He heard Sakura gasp quietly before she strengthened her grip and held onto his hand.

Itachi was glad that the darkness would hide his grin. It would ruin his reputation.

"Maybe I am a softie," he mumbled quietly.

"Did you say something?" Sakura asked while looking over at him, the streetlight highlighting her curious expression.

"Nothing," he said as they stopped outside of Sakura's apartment building. Sakura released his hand and he had to resist grabbing it back.

"I had fun," Sakura said, leaning back on her heels.

"As did I." Itachi hesitated. He didn't really know date protocol and this end of the date thing was throwing him for a loop. He knew kissing on the first date was frowned upon and considering her response to his last kiss he didn't think it was such a gr-

His musings were interrupted by the presence of a pair of soft lips pressed against his cheek.

"Goodnight," Sakura whispered, her breath coating his cheek. She stepped back and shot him a shaky smile before heading up to her apartment. Itachi stood there in shock for a few seconds before lifting a hand to brush his cheek.

"Goodnight."

The next week went by without any sight of Sakura. According to his otouto she was working long shifts at the hospital and that was cutting into any time he could have had with her. He had yet to inform anyone of their date and since he hadn't gotten any winks or death threats in the past week he could safely assume she hadn't told anyone either.

For some reason that bothered him. He didn't want to kick up a fess after one date, especially because there were no plans for a second date much to his chagrin, but it felt wrong for people not to know. He didn't mind the lack of teasing from his teammates but he did mind that to the rest of the world Sakura was single. Although she was, wasn't she? He didn't know and that only increased his frustration.

"Is there something wrong, Aniki?"

Itachi looked up to see his brother standing there looking very concerned.

"No, why would there be?" Itachi asked calmly and Sasuke pointed at his hands.

"Because you've been polishing that kunai for twenty minutes and I think you just cracked it."

Itachi immediately placed the kunai, which actually was cracked, in his weapon case. "I just have a lot on my mind," he said.

"I can see that," Sasuke said, scoffing. Itachi ignored him and pulled another kunai from the case and started polishing it. "Does this have anything to do with Sakura?" A sharp whine penetrated the air as the kunai in Itachi's grasp broke in half. "I'll take that as yes," Sasuke said, sitting down next to him.

"So what happened?" Sasuke asked and Itachi sighed before placing the broken kunai on the floor.

"It's nothing," Itachi said, rubbing his temples.

"I may not be in ANBU, but even I can tell that's a lie," Sasuke said. "Just tell me."

"We went on a date," Itachi said.

"Seriously," Sasuke asked. "No wonder she's been so scatterbrained lately."

"Really?" Itachi asked hopefully. Maybe this was affecting her as much as it was him.

"Yeah, but I don't get what her problem is. She must be nervous for your next date," Sasuke said and Itachi felt his mood fall even lower.

"There is no second date," he said.

"What? Did she turn you down?"

"I never asked," Itachi admitted and he was shocked when a sharp slap hit the back of his head.

"You baka." Sasuke growled.

"What?!" Itachi hissed and Sasuke rolled his eyes.

"She must think you don't like her," he told him before rubbing his chin. "When was your date?"

"Friday," Itachi said and Sasuke groaned.

"That was a week ago, Aniki, and you still haven't asked her out again..."

"I haven't seen or spoken to her since then," Itachi told him and Sasuke narrowed his eyes.

"Are you serious? Wait, don't answer that," Sasuke said holding up his hand. "She gets off of work in twenty minutes."

"What?" Itachi asked confused.

"She gets off of work in twenty minutes," Sasuke sounded out and Itachi's eyes widened. "That means go to the hospital, Aniki."

Itachi got to his feet and walked to the door before looking back at his brother. "Thanks."

"Whatever," Sasuke scoffed. "If she's unlucky enough to like you she at least deserves for you to treat her right."

Itachi ignored his otouto's comment and quickly jumped up onto the roof and started running towards the hospital. When he got there he saw a flash of pink leaving the hospital and he jumped down in front of her.

"Kami, Itachi, you scared the shit out of me," Sakura gasped, pressing a hand to her chest.

"Sorry, Sakura," Itachi said and Sakura shook her head.

"It's fine, do you need something?" she asked and Itachi gave her a small smile.

"I just thought I'd walk you home, if that's alright," he asked and he was pleased to see her blush.

"That would be great," she said, smiling. Itachi turned so he was next to her as he took her bag from her."You don't ha-"

"It's fine. Think of it as repayment for being too clueless to come and see you this week," he said and she waved her hand.

"It's alright. I'm just as guilty as you are. I'm perfectly capable of walking to the Uchiha compound," she said and Itachi was going to argue that it was his job to come and see her but he had a feeling that Sakura would find that offensive. She was a strong willed woman just like her mentor after all.

"So how has your week been?" Itachi asked as they made their way to her apartment.

"It's been good. I got to work in the children's wing today and yesterday which makes up for ER duty Monday and Wednesday," she said laughing.

"I'm glad it's been enjoyable."

"How about you?" she asked and Itachi thought back to his week. It had mostly contained countless hours thinking about her and he decided that at this stage in their relationship, if it was a relationship, that would not be smiled upon.

"I spent most of it taking care of stuff around the house," he told her whilst thinking back to the broken kunai. It was the truth, kind of.

"Sounds fun," Sakura remarked sarcastically. Itachi was surprised when he felt her hand grasp onto his. He let a small smile slip on his face as he threaded his fingers through hers.

"It was," he said softly and she grinned up at him. Itachi's happiness was short lived though, as they arrived at her apartment.

"I'm afraid that it's time for me to call it a day," Sakura said, stepping in front of him. "Twelve hour shifts are pretty brutal."

"Alright," Itachi said and then he thought back to his brother's words. "Would you like to go out again? Perhaps this weekend?"

Sakura flushed before grinning. "Well I have to work tomorrow, but Sunday I'm free," she told him and Itachi nodded.

"Great, how about one o'clock?" he asked and Sakura nodded.

"Sounds great," she said and she leaned in and gave him a quick kiss on the cheek. "I'll see you then."

"Have a good evening Sakura," Itachi said and she gave him a wave before walking into the building. Itachi quickly made his way home and as soon as he stepped into his home he let out the slight victory yell he had been holding back.

"I guess it went well," an amused voice said from the stairwell. Itachi met his brother's mocking eyes but he felt no animosity towards the little brat.

"It went very well," he purred and he chuckled at the appalled expression on his otouto's face. "I'm just kidding Sasuke, although you know that if Sakura and I continue to date we'll eventually h-"

"Just shut up," Sasuke squeaked, standing up. "I don't even want to think about it."

Itachi couldn't hold in his laughter as Sasuke gagged. At the sound of his laughter Sasuke looked up in shock before he smiled.

"You really like her, don't you?" he asked and Itachi touched his cheek as he smiled at his little brother.

"Yeah, I really do."

In June Itachi went on his first date with Sakura, held her hand, and felt her lips against his cheek.

It was also the month that Sasuke realized his brother had a sex drive.

Thank-you for reading. Please check out my other Itasaku stories Interns and Tasers and Itachi Taichou which will be updated within the next week. Please review:)

-Sakura478