Sakura; Maid outfit Gallery 9; Library Worlds Links Ownership Sakura kord. Created 2 years, 3 months ago. Creator whitepaperrabbits. Favorites 51. Kemonomimi female closed species tentative Aria. Personality: Cheerful and loves to smile. Sakura-con 2017 Photos Kobayashi-san Chi no Maid Dragon. Top Series Sorters. MikoBura (639); anna-neko (23); Keitaro Akiyama (2); Toon Addict (2).

Summary: Sakura is a geisha bought by Sasuke's father to be a present for Sasuke. She hates him but he doesn't care. Can two people brought together by hatred and possessiveness learn to love each other?

Disclaimer: I don't own Naruto.

Chapter 1

The man sipped the tea the woman poured for him.

'My son's seventeenth birthday is in two days. I want to buy that pink haired geisha as a present for him.'

The woman looked at him, considering his offer.

'It is true that all geisha need a danna but this geisha is special to me. How can I be sure your son with take good care of her?'

'He's an Uchiha, we don't treat anything or anyone that is ours badly.'

The woman looked at him and knew he spoke the truth. All her years of being a geisha and then owning an okiya, taught her to read people well.

'How much?'

'One million dollars.'

The woman almost dropped her cup of tea from shock. She nodded her head and the man smiled. Starcolony mission 9.

'Saruki, bring Sakura here.'

A few minutes later, the screen door slid open and Sakura entered. She bowed down and waited for the woman to acknowledge her.

'Come here Sakura.'

Sakura got off of her knees and walked towards her.

'Sit.'

Sakura sat next to her.

'This is Fugaku Uchiha. His son's seventeenth birthday is in two days and he wants to buy you for his son. He has offered to pay one million dollars for you.'

Sakura's eyes widened in shock.

'Sasuri, that's a lot of money!'

'Yes, I know.'

Sakura stared at Sasuri, waiting for her to continue speaking.

'Pack your bags, you leave as soon as you are finished.'

Sakura gasped.

'But-'

'No buts, this is what a geisha strives for. Someone to take care of them. With a danna you will have no worries.'

Sakura nodded and left the room.

Tears fell from her eyes as she hugged Sasuri good-bye.

'Take care.' Sasuri said.

Sakura nodded and got into the carriage. She looked out the window until she could no longer see Sasuri. She looked at Fugaku and quickly looked away.

The air had an uncomfortable feel and Sakura prayed they would arrive at the village soon.

The trip had passed by slowly but they had finally arrived at Konoha the next day.

'Welcome to Konoha.'

Sakura looked at Fugaku, surprised. It was the first time he had spoken to her.

'Thank you Uchiha-sama.'

The door opened and a man helped her out. Sakura gasped when she saw the place. It was enormous and had pictures of red and white fans everywhere.

Fugaku stepped out of the carriage and began walking. Sakura quickly followed him. He arrived at a door and walked in.

A stunningly gorgeous woman with raven hair that flowed to the end of her back and onyx eyes appeared.

'Welcome home dear.'

Fugaku merely nodded.

The woman turned her gaze towards Sakura.

'You must be the geisha. I'm Mikoto, Fugaku's wife.'

'My name is Sakura Haruno. It's an honor to meet you Uchiha-sama.'

'No, no, you must call me Mikoto.'

Sakura looked shocked but nodded her head.

'You must be tired. I'll have a maid draw you a bath while you eat. Leave your bag there and someone will bring it to your room.'

Sakura nodded and followed Mikoto.

'Sasuke is on a mission and won't be back until tonight. You'll see him tomorrow.' Mikoto said.

'Uch- I mean Mikoto, what's Sasuke like?'

'Sasuke is a…. complex person.'

'Complex?'

'He seems cold and arrogant but once you get to know him he's a wonderful person. Don't let his cold attitude scare you off, it just takes Sasuke a while to trust a person.'

'I see. What ninja rank is Sasuke?'

'Jonin.'

Sakura could hear the pride in Mikoto's voice and smiled.

'Being a Jonin at such a young age, that's quite impressive.'

Yes, it is. I'm so proud of my boy.'

They arrived at the kitchen and a cook set food on the table for Sakura. She sat down and began quietly eating.

'When you're done, let the cook know and she'll fiind a servant to take you to your room.'

'Thank you, Mikoto, for everything.'

Mikoto smiled at her befors she left the kitchen.

'That mission was so easy!' A loud voice said.

'Keep it down dobe.'

Naruto looked at Sasuke and frowned.

'Shut up teme!'

'You first.'

Naruto was about to swing a fist at him but their food had arrived. He eagerly began eating his ramen.

Sasuke rolled his eyes at him and began eating his pasta.

'Tomorrow's your birthday, are you excited?' Naruto asked.

'Why would I be excited?'

'It's your birthday! How can you not be excited? The day is going to be all about you!'

'Whatever, I could care less.'

Naruto looked at him in disbelief and shook his head. He didn't bother saying anything, he just continued to eat his ramen.

Sasuke knew his mother would make a big deal out of his birthday and would put a lot of effort into it, she always did. He knew he had to pretend to be excited, he didn't want to hust his mother's feelings. She was one of the few people he actually really cared about.

'Birthdays can be so annoying.'

Sakura sighed as she relaxed in the tub.

'This is the life!'

She stretched her arms above her head and let out a small giggle. Sure she had had baths before but none like this. The tub was huge, the water was great and she had bubbles and other stuff to make her skin soft and guaranteeing she'd smell wonderful.

Half an hour later she got out of the tub and put on the clothes laid of for her. She jumped onto her bed and let out another giggle.

'This is great!'

That night, Sasuke arrived back home.

'Welcome home.'

Sasuke looked up and saw his mother. She was always there to greet him whenever he came back from a mission. A small smile crossed Sasuke's mouth.

'Thanks.'

'How was the mission?'

'Successful.'

Mikoto nodded her head. She was just grateful to see her son alive. She always worried whenever Fugaku, Itachi or Sasuke went out on a mission.

'You're father has a surprise for you but you won't see it until tomorrow night.'

A brief flash of interest crossed Sasuke's face but he said nothing, he just nodded. Flame over circle meaning.

'I'm going to take a shower and then go to bed.'

'Ok, good night and have a nice sleep.'

'Night.'

Sasuke walked passed his mother and up the stairs. After talking a quick shower, he collapsed into be, exhausted.

'I wonder what the present could be that dad wants to give me?'

The next morning Sasuke walked downstairs to see a big breakfast in the kitchen. A quick small smile passed through Sasuke's lips.

'Mom always makes sure we have a special breakfast for our birthday.'

Sasuke sat down and dug into the plate that was set before him.

'Happy Birthday honey.'

'Thanks mom.'

A few hours after breakfast, people began arriving for the party.

'Happy Birthday!' Natuto shouted.

'Do you have to be so loud?'

Before Naruto coud retort, a voice interrupted.

'Happy Birthday Sasuke!'

Sasuke looked over Naruto's shoulde and saw Ino, dragging her boyfriend Shikamaru along.

Ino looked at Shikanaru.

'Don't you have something to say to Sasuke?'

Shikamaru sighed.

'How troublesome. Happy Birthday Sasuke.'

Sasuke smirked at this. It seemed Shikamaru found everything troublesome. Well everything expect Go and cloud watching.

A couple of hours later, the party was in full swing. There were groups of people talking and laughing and plenty of people dancing.

Sasuke sat on the couch, watchig it all.

'Having fun?'

Sasuke looked over to see that Itachi had sat next to him.

'Sure.'

'Liar, I know you don't like crowds very much.'

'I can't just leave, no matter how much I want to. It would hurt mom's feelings. She always puts so much effort into our birthdays.'

'It's funny considering she's the only one in the family who actually likes big crowds and people.'

Sasuke smirked at this.

'We're quite the odd family.'

Itachi and Sasuke both let out a small laugh at this.

Sakura stood quietly as a maid dressed her in a silk kimono. It was white with cherry blossoms on it. Another maid put her long hair into a bun and secured it with chop sticks. The third maid put on her make up. After they were all done, a maid sprayed perfume on Sakura.

Sakura didn't want to admit if but she was scared. She was pretty sure she knew what was going to happen tonight.

'I gues I should just be happy that I'm losing my virginity to someone only a year older than me.'

'I'll be taking you to Sasuke-sama's room.'

Sakura nodded and followed the maid. She led her down a series of hallways and finally stopped in front of a door.

'He should already be inside.'

'Thank you.' Sakura said, quietly.

The maid nodded and knocked on the door.

'Sasuke-sama, you're gift has arrived.

Sasuke looked at the door.

'Arrived? No one said it was alive.'

'Come in.' He said.

The door opened and a maid nodded with a girl behind her. The girl quickly walked to Sasuke and bowed down. The maid left, quietly shutting the door behind her.

'Let me see your face.'

Sakura slowly looked up and had to make a big effort to not gasp at what she saw.

I once again need a beta reader so, does anyone want to be my beta reader? I know this chapter was short but it's only the beginning. The chapters will get longer. Please review and let me know what you think!

A/N: I'm very pleased to see that many of you are enjoying this story as much as I am. It really just started out with my desire to write a scene that's been playing in my head. So it's wonderful to see it being placed on favorite lists and whatnot. Very awesome, thank you.

*Disclaimer*: I do not own Naruto.

Sakura Haruno had never pictured herself in this type of situation. In all of her years as a ninja, she thought there was a higher chance of dying. But there she was, sitting on her bed, waiting for Ino's reaction to this shocking secret.

'You're…pregnant.' Ino repeated more to herself than to Sakura it seemed. The pink haired kunoichi's hands held tightly onto her sheets, nerves getting the better of the situation. Hearing those words from someone else made it all seem too real. There was something growing inside of her; and that something that would eventually become a living human being. It would walk and talk, smile and laugh, scream and cry. They would have a name, hopes, fears, and-

'Sakura, calm down, you're starting to hyperventilate.' She felt Ino's hand rub her back in slow soothing circles, relaxing her. Sakura began to laugh, though her tears were still fresh and running.

'Ino, I'm going to have a baby…' Sakura leaned her head onto her friend's shoulder, a feeling of complete helplessness sinking into her.

'I know…' Ino struggled with her next words, but she took a deep breath and looked to Sakura, '…Who's… the father?'

Sakura knew this was coming; the obvious question linked hand in hand with her secret. Naruto's face came into her mind. It was such a clear and vivid image; his golden hair shooting up in every direction, his golden skin, fox like whisker marks that seemed to be his trade mark-next to his toothy grin, of course. And those eyes; Sakura would never, in all the rest of her life, forget those eyes. They were the clearest blue, rivaling that of the afternoon sky.

'I'm not ready-'

'At least tell me one thing about him.' Ino was being persistent, but Sakura didn't know what to say. Any characteristic of Naruto would give him away, especially if she told the infamous Ino, the cataloguer of all men in Konoha. With just a few details, she could say if the man was single, who he slept (or had slept) with, and where he lived.

'What do you want me to say, Ino?'

The blonde paused for a moment and her hand slowed in its calming massage on Sakura's back. She smirked, 'Was the sex fantastic?'

Sakura was stunned only for a moment; her mind shocked blank. Then, ever so slowly, a small smile appeared on the kunoichi's face and Sakura laughed. Ino started to giggle along, and soon they were gasping for air, holding onto each other for support. Tears streamed down both of their faces; a mixture of sorrow and anxiety.

'So what are you going to do?' Ino sat at the kitchen table as Sakura began bustling around her cupboards. Sakura needed to keep her mind busy, so she opted for making tea for the two of them. Her mind raced through all of the options, and none of them seemed even slightly sympathetic to her. She would have to eventually tell everyone that she was pregnant- her growing body would be proof of that alone. But what was going to happen when people began to ask the same question that came from Ino- Who's the father?

What about Naruto? He didn't even remember that they had sex. Would he believe that she was pregnant? That the baby was his? What about work? What would she do when she was incapable of going on missions or even performing the simplest of surgeries because of her physical state? Tsunade was going to kill her. People in the town were going to spread rumors, wondering why she wasn't with the father…

'Sakura,' Ino's voice brought her back down to Earth, 'I know what you're thinking; and you need to calm down and take a deep breath. Just figure out what you're going to do first.'

'What am I suppose to do?'

Ino cocked an eyebrow, and snorted, 'Well, aren't you Konoha's number one medic-nin? Shouldn't you already know the answer to that question?'

Sakura sighed. Ino was completely right; if anything, Sakura could look at this like the medic-nin she was. She was pregnant; so like any patient of hers she would recommend pre-natal vitamins, exercise, a constant good night's sleep, and no alcohol or tobacco. Okay. There it was. Her first few steps-

'How am I supposed to get the pre-natal vitamins I need?'

'Well, not all pre-natal vitamins are prescription, billboard brow. We can go get some from the market, and I'll just say they're for me when Shika and I decide to have a baby.'

Sakura put her cup of tea down and took hold of Ino's hand, squeezing it gently, 'What would I do without you, Ino-pig?'

The 'pig' rolled her eyes, 'Of course you would suffer a horrible death. I am your savior, billboard brow. Do not forget that.' Ino smiled haughtily but squeezed Sakura's hand back. At least for the moment, Sakura felt like there was hope- even if it was miniscule…it was still there, thanks to Ino.

'Good, morning Miss Yamanaka, Miss Haruno.' The local market owner greeted the two as they walked through the entrance. Sakura looked to Ino, her hands slightly shaking. Ino smiled, reassuring her pink haired friend and then turned to the older man, 'Good morning Hokkaido-san. Where do you stock your pre-natal vitamins?'

'Hm? Oh, they're in the back.' Jiro Hokkaido, a man 20 years their senior, was the village market owner. To the benefit of the women, he never gave much attention to what items one bought- unlike so many of the gossiping shop owners in Konoha.

Ino and Sakura took their steps carefully back towards the vitamins, wanting to draw as little attention as possible. The shop keeper might have tight lips, but the same didn't go for the customers.

Sakura could feel her heart quicken as they stepped closer to the aisle.

'Here.' Ino gently led her to stand in front of a row of the vitamins, and Sakura's eyes scanned them all, her nerves calming. Her medic-nin state of mind was taking over. There were quite a few that would suit, but some had too high of an iron count or vitamin A, and that wouldn't be helpful. She would need the type that would give an extra boost of calcium along with her other needed vitamins.

Finally the kunoichi picked a brand and handed it to Ino, 'Here you go. This should fit with your needs.' Ino and Sakura had rehearsed their lines to perfection; because kami knew that there would be eavesdroppers.

'Good.' Ino and Sakura made their way up to the register and paid for the item. It was going flawlessly-no one had stopped them or from the looks of it, had paid too much attention to them. Sakura took the vitamins from the cashier, wrapped the purchase and handed it to Ino. The blonde promptly put the item into her purse, 'Let's go, billboard brow. I want to get something to eat.' The two girls then stepped out of the market and it was like someone lifted two tons of weight off of Sakura's shoulders; she felt relieved. Kami, there wasn't a word strong enough to describe the relief that stilled Sakura's heart and mind.

'So,' Ino looked to Sakura, the feeling of success evident in her eyes as well, 'where did you want to eat billboard-OW!' Someone pushed past Ino, knocking her into Sakura. Thankfully, they caught themselves before anymore attention could be brought upon them.

'YOU STUPID SON OF A-Shika?' Ino's cheeks turned a bright tomato red as her fiancé stood a few feet from her, an apologetic look on his face. The blood in Sakura's face drained as she painfully stood behind, the invisible weight dropping right back down onto her shoulders.

'Ino,' Shikamaru sounded surprised; not a good sign, 'What are you doing here? I thought you would still be in bed with a hangover.' Sakura could tell the genius was breaking down every possible detail around him, figuring out just what was going on. He would most likely give a correct assumption if Ino didn't distract him-

'I couldn't drink,' The blonde lied smoothly, 'I was thinking about your bachelor party, wondering what woman was sticking their disgusting hands all over you.' Sakura almost snorted with laughter; Ino was confident that Shika would never think about another woman the rest of his life with her beside him.

…Mostly due to threats towards all the females that inhabited Konoha. The poor shinobi would never be approached by another woman the rest of his life.

'Ah, well,' The lazy genius rubbed the back of his head, 'other women are just too troublesome.' And Sakura could see the slightest hint of a blush appear on the man's face. He was truly sweet, in his own unconventional way.

'Shikamaru…' Ino took hold of Shika's hand and a smile crept onto the kunoichi's face.

Oh no…Sakura was going to have to step in, otherwise this would lead to a sex romp. It had happened before, and it would happen again. No one could forget that night one month ago when they were going at it in the middle of the local pub. It still brought chills to all who were there.

'Um, Ino, we should get going…'

'Hm? Oh! Yes! We should.'

And then Shikamaru's attention shifted to Sakura. The kunoichi smiled, nodding in polite salutation, but her conscience screamed obscenities for placing the unwanted spotlight onto her.

'Sakura, I haven't seen you in a while. You look different.' The genius' keen eyes sharpened suddenly, 'Hey, Sakura-'

SHIT.

'Well, Shika, we have to get going! See you later, bye!' Ino took Sakura's hand and yanked her away, in a not so subtle exit.

'Did you see his face back there?' Sakura sat at a table inside of a restaurant, ignoring the menu laid out in front of her, 'Oh, kami.'

Ino growled, 'He was doing his genius figure out every damn thing so that I know what the fuck's going magic- oh, thank you' The waitress brought them their cups of water, and paused.

'Are you ready to-'

'No.' The women replied in unison. The waitress rolled her eyes and walked away. Who cared what she thought? Sakura had more important things to think about at the moment.

'I just might be screwed, Ino.'

'You just might be right, billboard brow.' Ino put her menu down, 'Damn it! We were so close! So close!'

'He'll know, without a doubt.' Sakura covered her face with her hands. She was screwed; the somewhat formulated plan of telling people herself about being pregnant just collapsed before her like a house of cards. Now that Shikamaru knew…oh the people he could tell.

'Wait. This might be good.' Ino gripped one of Sakura's arms tightly, 'This just might work in our favor, billboard brow!'

'What are you talking about, pig?' Sakura slowly sipped the cool water from the cup placed in front of her.

'Shikamaru might know that you're pregnant, but he doesn't know who the father is.' Ino's face slightly twisted in annoyance, 'Just like me.'

Sakura sighed, 'Ino, I…'

'SAKURA-CHAN!'

Sakura choked on her water and began to cough loudly, her face turning a bright red. Ino looked at her for merely a moment, a dazed look on her face. Then suddenly-

'NO FUCKING-' Ino clamped her mouth shut, though her eyes were still as wide as saucers. Ino tossed Sakura a napkin and moved to sit right beside the coughing kunoichi.

Ino gripped a handful of Sakura's shirt, yanking on it,'You have some explaining to do, Haruno.' she whispered right into the kunoichi's ear but Sakura was more preoccupied with someone else at the moment and chose to ignore the pale blonde's words. For now…

The Uzumaki came in and paused at the entrance, Sakura noted that the shinobi had the dagger Tama had given him during their mission strapped to his belt. It reminded her of the amulet she received and the coin their other teammate had gotten.

And almost immediately- like a cruel joke- Sasuke walked in; followed by Chouji, Kiba, Hinata, and Shikamaru. If it were humanly possible, Sakura's face turned a paler shade of white. This was not going to be her day.

'Sakura-chan!' Naruto sat down across from her at their table while the rest followed suit, sitting in their own spots; Shikamaru took a spot next to Ino, his eyes locking onto his fiancé's. The pink haired woman could only imagine what was wordlessly passing between the two at that moment.

'Man, I'm hungry! I haven't eaten in two whole hours!' Chouji sat down at the table, grabbing one of the menus, his eyes scanning its contents, 'Waitress!'

'Here Hinata, let me get that chair for you.' Kiba pulled back one of the chairs for his very pregnant wife and Hinata blushed nodding in thanks as she sat down.

'Ne, Sakura-chan, what's wrong? You look like you ate a bad bowl of ramen.'

'Oh, I've had those pains before…' Chouji chuckled.

'Oh, N-nothing, Naruto.' The pink haired woman mumbled, 'I'm perfectly fine.'

'Really?' Sasuke smirked, taking a seat next to his orange clad teammate. He seemed to be enjoying her small panic attack, 'You do seem a bit odd.' Sakura's eye twitched in annoyance-her infamous anger was triggered.

'It's none of your business, Sasuke.' She grabbed her cup of water and downed the rest of its contents. Stupid Sasuke's damned intuitiveness was not helping the situation. Sakura would need to keep her wits about her. Never mind that Naruto sat two feet from her, oblivious to damn near anything. Or that Shikamaru might have told all of these people of his suspicions. There was no way in hell she was going to let anyone find out.

'Hn.' The Uchiha cocked an eyebrow, clearly not convinced.

'I need to go freshen up.' Ino stood up and looked to her side, 'Sakura?' Her eyes glinted with her hidden words-you are coming with me right now whether you like it or not.

The kunoichi stood up and followed her friend, wondering what she was going to do, or how she was going to explain anything.

'I CAN'T BELIEVE IT!' Ino laughed so loud, Sakura was sure that they could be heard.

'Ino, keep your voice down!'

'I CAN'T-' Ino chuckled, but lowered her voice as asked, 'I can't believe you did it with that idiot. You really-' She gasped for air between her muffled laughs, 'He's father. HE'S THE FATH-' Sakura clamped her hand over Ino's mouth.

'Keep your voice down, pig! I don't…want anyone…to…' Damn it, Sakura could feel her eyes stinging and her voice going hoarse; she was about to cry…

'Mphrhphm.' Ino moved the kunoichi's hand away and clarified herself, 'Sakura, I have two things to tell you. One of them you might not like- well you might not want to hear either-but that's beside the point. You need to tell him. And second- what made you change your mind on guarding your precious flower?'

Sakura was distraught. Ino was already knee deep, so she might as well dive the rest of the way into this ocean of madness. So the kunoichi began to tell the blonde what happened that night; starting with the gypsy and ending with Naruto's mental-lapse of their time together, she told her story. And through it all, Ino said not one word- though her facial expressions compensated well enough.

Her anger was evident by the end.

'I'm gonna kill him, simple as that. I'll rip his dick off and toss it to Akamaru to chew on.' Ino glared through the bathroom door, towards the unsuspecting shinobi. Sakura wouldn't put it past her to follow through with that threat.

'Ino, please, it's already hard enough for me to tell you this…' And it was. It took Sakura all of her strength to tell Ino about Naruto, but in a strange way, she felt better. Now that the pig knew about Naruto, she could help Sakura avoid-

Avoid? Was that what she wanted; to completely ignore the Uzumaki? Sakura ran shaking fingers through her pink tresses. This was all too much, too fast.

'We need to get out of here, billboard brow. But I'll only tell you this one more time: you need to sit that idiot down and tell him what's going on before he hears it from someone else.'

'You won't-!'

'No,' Ino shook her head, 'I would never do that to you, as much as you piss me off sometimes, you are still my best friend. But think this through, billboard brow. You're going to be growing, and people will question you, and if you don't answer, rumors will spread. They'll look to the men closest to you: Sasuke, Kakashi…Naruto. It's going to be messy either way, but…'

Sakura never thought about it that way, and her heart dropped, 'I… have to tell him, don't I?' Ino didn't reply, because she didn't need to. There was no other way around it. Sakura was going to have to tell Naruto that they were going to have a baby. But first she needed to convince him that they had sex.

'Sakura?'

'What is it, Ino?'

'Do you love him?' There was that question again; one that not only her friends asked her, but it was the very same question that raging conscience within the pink kunoichi screamed almost everyday.

DAMN IT! ANSWER ME!

Sakura didn't know how to answer herself. Did she? The gypsy Tama said that the fruit she consumed revealed her true feelings. Did that mean she loved Naruto, or was only sexually attracted to him? She couldn't deny the physical attraction that she had towards the blonde shinobi anymore- that much was obvious. But did her affection run deeper than mere physicality? The only thing she had to compare this confusing feeling towards Naruto was her long time crush on Sasuke.

But there was just an infinite amount of differences between those situations. When Sakura was crazy over the Uchiha, she swore to anyone who would listen that it was love. But in retrospect, all it seemed to be was an obsession; like he was some toy she could never get her hands on. The pink haired woman felt ashamed after all her wasted years, pining over a man who would never love anyone. He was cold, distant, and spiteful towards her.

Then there was Naruto. Sakura had never been treated so well by a boy before; she never knew what to make of him. As a young ninja, he would constantly talk to her, interrupting the kunoichi's Sasuke themed fantasies- so she dubbed him as loud and annoying. Despite her show of anger towards the blonde boy, he never snapped at her. Naruto always had a smile just for her and an offer for ramen at Ichiraku. He's saved her life so many times that Sakura had lost count by now. Whenever they were together, it seemed natural and just right. Where Sasuke had burned a hole into her heart, Naruto filled her aching need to be loved. There should be no question about her feelings toward the man, but…

'Maybe the real question you should be asking is if I'm ready to fall in love?' Sakura's voice was hoarse as she looked to Ino, her tears drying up.

The blonde kunoichi laughed, 'Billboard brow, I can tell you from personal experience that love doesn't give a flying fuck if you're ready or not.'

There was a knock on the bathroom door, 'S-Sakura-kun? I-Ino-kun? Are you guys alright in there?'

Whoops, they took too long.

'Yeah, we'll be right out, Hinata.' Ino fixed up her hair and makeup, and looked to Sakura, 'You'd better wash that face of yours. You look like shit.' Sakura growled back at her, but laughed anxiously. Sakura would have to tell him; as simple as that. She might not understand her feelings completely, but she owed it to Naruto to tell him what was going on.

'Sakura! Open up, it's Ino.'

Okay, she chickened out. It's been four weeks since she told her friend Ino about her pregnancy, and she avoided Naruto like the plague. Every time he would come by the hospital she would grab some paper work and run off, saying she was too busy to talk. Lies, lies, lies…

And on several occasions, he came to her house demanding to know what he did to make her mad at him. But she never answered her door, too terrified to tell him what was really wrong with her. Now it was the day before Ino's wedding and here she was, sitting on her couch, feasting on mint chocolate chip ice cream with jelly. The kunoichi got up and opened the door, a sheepish look on her face, 'Hi, Ino. How's it-'

'Don't give me that bull crap of a greeting, billboard. What the hell is going through your mind? Do you know I'm getting married tomorrow?' The blonde carried in a big box into the apartment and dropped it onto the floor, 'And a certain pink haired friend of mine didn't even show up for the fitting! You are so lucky I know your size, billboard brow!' Ino growled, kneeling down beside the box and promptly opened it. She reached inside and pulled out a deep crimson dress, 'Since you, Sakura, owe me, Ino, big time; you shall abide by my rules. I am, after all the bride, and you are my maid of honor.' Sakura nodded, 'God your cravings are disgusting. Throw that ice cream away.' The pink haired kunoichi complied. Ino was serious, and there was no way Sakura was going to piss her off a day before the ceremony.

'Rule number one: you are to wear this tomorrow.' Ino handed Sakura the dress, 'Two: I will be doing your make-up, no questions asked. Rule number three: you will dance, you will laugh, and you will have fun. I will not have my maid of honor acting gloomy on the most important day of my life. Do you understand?'

'Yes Ino.' Sakura rubbed her stomach and looked at the dress, 'I'm going to look so ugly…'

'Well, next to me, of course.' Ino laughed, but stopped once she saw the kunoichi sadden, 'Sakura, you will be perfectly fine. I am doing your make-up. Therefore when I am done with you, you'll look like a total goddess. I would have nothing less at my own wedding.' Sakura didn't reply.

'Have you been taking your vitamins?' Ino took the red dress from Sakura and wrapped it in its plastic cover.

'Yes.'

'Eating right?' The blonde noted the strange food concoction she had her toss and a blush came over the pink haired woman.

'Well, for the most part- yes.'

'Have you been getting enough sleep?'

Sakura coughed, 'Yes.'

Real answer: not at all.

Her nightmares have gotten worse over the past month; each one more gruesome and bloody. She would wake up drenched in sweat, wondering why the hell those stupid sprigs of Thyme and rock of amethyst weren't working. She even wore the green amulet Tama gave her. It was small and subtle, but the gypsy said it was for protection; Sakura had hoped it would protect her from the dreams, but they came every night like clockwork. It seemed as if nothing was going to rid her of those horrible images.

'Hm. Well maybe you should go to sleep now, just in case. Oh, and use these-' Ino tossed her a bag of skin creams, 'They'll get rid of those bags under your eyes.'

'Thanks..' The kunoichi retorted.

'Whatever, billboard. There will be pictures, and I will not have you looking like a zombie. Now go to bed and get some sleep. You're going to need it.'

'Alright, Ino-pig, I'll go to sleep. Now you go. Shouldn't you get some sleep too?'

Ino paused at the door and looked back to Sakura, 'Have you told him yet?'

Sakura picked up the ridiculously big bag of cosmetic creams, '…No.'

Ino sighed, 'Alright, billboard. I'll see you tomorrow morning. DO NOT BE LATE!'

'I'm not like my sensei, pig. I'll be early.' As soon as she closed the door, Sakura felt exhaustion consume her. Going to sleep really sounded like a good idea, despite how early in the evening it was. As soon as the kunoichi's head hit the pillow she was out like a light.

'Sakura, there's no need to play this game. All you need to do is give us what we want.'

The medic-nin was crouched low in a cold, dark room. The voice came from all around her, so she wasn't able to pinpoint their position to attack. Nevertheless, her grip tightened around her kunai, her muscles coiled to spring at any given moment. She would not let them win. She would never give them what they wanted. It was her reason for living now, the motivation to keep moving, keep breathing; even with the numerous wounds on her body. She would not give up.

Then she sensed it-behind her. Sakura whipped around, reaching to her most precious object before they got to it. Too late!

'Mama?!' That voice called out, stirring her. Her blood boiled and she thrashed at the empty air, and a low chuckle rumbled through her very bones.

'You should've given us what we wanted while you still had the chance. Now we'll kill the both of you.'

Sakura's heart clenched, 'NO!!!!!!!'

Sakura shot up in her bed, gasping for air. Her dreams have taken a new turn. They not only surrounded her death; but her unborn child's as well.

'Ino, you put too much make-up on me.'

'No, I didn't billboard, you look fine. Now shut up and help me get through this damn door-'

That next morning, after a rather unpleasant episode of Sakura getting painted with kami knows what on her face; Ino, Sakura, TenTen, Hinata, and Temari got dressed in their outfits for the ceremony. They were supposed to leave that minute, but it seemed Ino was having some trouble with her princess cut dress. The gown had a very puffy skirt, no straps, long train…

And it was perfect for Ino. Now only if Sakura could help her get through the damned door.

'TenTen, push down the right side, and I'll get the left. Temari, pick up her train so that it doesn't get dirty or trampled on. Hinata, you go get her veil and bouquet.'

'Yes sir!' TenTen joked and the other girls laughed. They all did what they were asked and somehow, they got Ino out of the apartment and to the chapel where they were holding the ceremony. Everything was going smoothly until-

'OH KAMI!!!!!' Ino screamed at the top of her lungs, making the three bridesmaids and the maid of honor jump.

'What? What's wrong, Ino?!' TenTen scanned the bride, looking for injuries.

'I forgot my garter! I need my garter! Otherwise what is Shika going to do when he has to take it from my leg?!'

'Isn't that the lacy thing he pulls off with his teeth?' Temari smirked.

'H-his teeth?' Hinata blushed furiously. Her wedding was more of an Eastern style wedding, whilst Ino wanted hers to be Western. Sakura could only imagine the embarrassment Hinata would've had to endure if Kiba had to pull a garter off of her leg using only his teeth.

'YES! And I had it with me! I think I left it back in the dressing room- Sakura could you go and get it?'

'Okay.' Sakura brushed a strand of her pink hair back into place and made her way back to the dressing rooms. Thankfully she knew where Ino had left the garter-right on top of the vanity next to her enormous box of make-up. The kunoichi snatched the garment and made her way back to the entrance of the chapel. She almost reached the room when-

Suddenly she felt a pair of hands wrap around her and pull her into a dark room. The mysterious figure pushed her up against a wall, pressing onto her arms as they leaned over her. Sakura began to build chakra in her hands, ready to knock this person into the next room. This was no- The kunoichi gasped.

That smoky masculine scent-she could never forget that smell.

'Naruto?' Sakura's heart raced. She could feel a deep blush coming over her cheeks, 'What are you doing, baka?!'

'Sakura-chan, I'm sorry for doing this, but you've been avoiding me for over a month! This was the only way to get you to talk to me!' His breath was warm on the nape of Sakura's neck. He was so close- he must be able to tell how hard her pulse was pounding. Sakura pushed against his hold, but he held strong-the kunoichi couldn't find the will in her to use her chakra against him, so she remained in his clutches.

'Naruto…' This was insane. She couldn't talk to him here. Not now.

'Sakura-chan, just please tell me what I did to you. I can't stand having you mad at me.' His head lowered to rest on the kunoichi's shoulders and his hands dropped down her arms, gently caressing her, 'Just…please…tell me what I did…' His gesture was completely innocent, something he most likely thought of as nothing yet for Sakura…it almost drove her over the edge. She felt a cool shiver run down her spine at his slight touch. The tortured woman bit her lip-preventing a moan escaping from her mouth.

'N-Naruto,' She couldn't believe herself; she was actually through with it. The things this man could make her do… 'Do you remember that mission we had not too long ago?'

The Uzumaki's head lifted slightly, 'When we escorted Tama-chan to the port? Hai, I remember.'

Sakura took a deep breath, wondering how she could explain this to him, 'That first night, after Sasuke-'

'I really don't want to remember that, Sakura-chan…'

'After that, baka. When-' The kunoichi took a deep breath, 'When we slept in the same tent.' Sakura's body felt so warm with his body radiating heat onto her. Every inch of her skin was itching to touch him once more; to feel his taut body below her fingers. What had Naruto done to her?

Naruto shifted slightly and stepped away from her, and through the dark Sakura could see him rub the back of his head, 'Y-yeah. I remember that.'

'Um…' Her heart felt like a hammer, it was pounding so strongly, 'And…that night. After we went to sleep; do you-'

'Sakura?' TenTen's voice was not far off as she called to the kunoichi, 'Sakura? Where are you? Ino's starting to worry.'

TenTen was most likely under exaggerating. The blonde bride was probably strangling a near by guest out of impatience and anger. Sakura sighed and looked to Naruto. This was obviously not going to be the day she told him.

'I'll leave first. You go later.' She mumbled and began to walk out until she felt a gentle but firm grip on her wrist.

'Sakura, are you still mad at me?' His voice was low, so that the approaching woman couldn't hear them through the door.

Sakura shook her head, 'No. As much as I want to be- I could never stay mad at you for long…' It was all too true. The kunoichi then slipped out of Naruto's grip and walked out of the dark room.

'Tenten, I'm here. I found the garter.'

'Sakura! Get your ass over here!' Ino whispered harshly, and the kunoichi immediately walked over.

'What is it, pig?'

'You told him, didn't you?' The blonde had taken off her massive veil and had it tossed aside for the massive reception they were holding at Konoha's Public Park. The ceremony had gone without a hitch, although Ino's vows were a bit unconventional-

'Shika, from the moment I first met you, I thought you were the laziest ninja in this kami forsaken village. But throughout the years whenever in battle, you gave it your all, just to protect your team. And when you finally stopped thinking of me as troublesome-'

'Stopped?-OW!' Shika shook out his bruised fingers and tentatively took hold of Ino's hand once again, 'Sorry…'

'When you STOPPED thinking of me as troublesome and asked me out- that first night together was absolutely… AMAZING! Oh, kami! The things a genius could-'

Sakura didn't want to remember past that point. It only got worse.

'Answer me, billboard brow. You told him, right?'

'No. I almost did…but no.'

'Are you sure?' Ino looked to where Naruto was standing; munching on the food at the buffet table with Chouji, 'He's been looking at you the entire day; like he's been…thinking. Naruto never looks like he's concentrating.'

'Ino.' Sakura growled; contrary to that stupid pig's assumption, Naruto was actually quite intelligent…but sometimes he acted like a 10 year old.

'Look, maybe he actually does remember that night. Maybe he just thinks that you don't remember it.'

'That's stupid.'

'Oh come on, billboard brow! Just tell him, for kami's sake! Make it my wedding gift!'

'I already bought you a wedding gift, pig.'

Ino's eyes sparkled with interest, 'Really? What did you get me?'

'You damn well know what I got you. You gave a list to each of us, demanding that we buy you the item written on there, or we were not allowed to show our faces at the wedding.' Sakura rolled her eyes in annoyance. She remembered having to go purchase that dinnerware set from the most expensive chinaware store in the village. It cost the medic-nin nearly more than half her paycheck!

Ino giggled lightly and wrapped Sakura in a tight embrace, 'I know about that Sakura, but I really just want you to be happy. And I want you to tell that baka that you are preg-shit.'

What?

'Pregnant?'

Sakura's heart dropped; this was impossible. If only Ino kept her mouth shut-! The kunoichi turned around, a smile failing to reach her eyes, 'Ohaiyo gozaimasu, Tsunade-shissou.'

'Sakura, I am only going to ask you this once.' Tsunade's eyes sharpened intensely, her voice lowering so that no one around them could hear, 'Are you pregnant?'

Sakura nodded the slightest bit, so that it wasn't as noticeable to people around them. She kept eye contact with the Hokage, but could feel her stomach twisting in knots; Tsunade just might kill her. Right here, during the reception, in front of all these people.

'Come here-' Shissou took Sakura by her hand and led her away from the party, and Ino followed.

'Stay there Yamanaka.'

'What?! But Godaime -sama!'

'I said stay there or I'll annul your wedding vows.' Ino froze and shissou pulled Sakura away, passing numerous amounts of trees; until they were far enough from the celebration so that the noise was just a soft buzz.

'Do you know what you've done?'

'Tsunade-Shissou-'

'Sakura if I heard correctly, and since I'm on the damned sober train, I'm pretty sure I did- you're pregnant with Uzumaki Naruto's child?' Tsunade was livid, her face paling in anger. Whether it was from being sober for the ceremony or from Sakura's actions, the kunoichi couldn't tell.

'Y-yes, Shissou, but-'

'Sakura, do you understand that Naruto is a jinchuuriki?'

'Of course I do, but what does that have to do-'

'No one understands the bijou completely, Sakura.' Tsunade led the kunoichi to sit down on the massive staircase that made the park so well known, 'We still do not know what would happen if a bijou vessel were to have children- or if their chakra is passed on through you to the unborn.'

She was insane, that was the only explanation Sakura could think of. Shissou was saying that because Naruto had the Kyuubi in him- so would her child. It sounded ridiculous; absolutely stupid.

'Shissou, please forgive me for saying this, but you're wrong. Don't you think I would feel someone else's power in my chakra? Especially power from the Kyuubi no Yoko?' Sakura stood up and looked down to her very faintly protruding abdomen (thankfully it was only the 7th week of her pregnancy and the fetus was barely larger than the size of a grape) and placed her palm against it, 'I know this sounds silly, but deep down I know that this boy or girl who's growing inside of me…' she couldn't finish her words.

'Sakura,' The Godaime stood, 'I'm sorry I was rude, but you have to understand my position here. If you were to give birth to a child of a jinchuuriki- one that didn't have the proper seals on them, it might be the loophole that kitsune needs to be released from his prison.' Tsunade shissou paused and sighed, her frustration clearly fading, 'But you're right. It was wrong of me to jump the gun in thinking you could not sense the demon power in your own body. Are you sure you can't sense anything?'

Sakura nodded, her chakra was normal; there was no possibility that the Kyuubi's chakra was in her.

'But hear me on this, and you know that I'm right. If word gets out about Naruto having a child- it is just the bait someone needs to bring him to his knees. They can threaten him with slaughtering his family now.' Tsunade shook her head and tried to smile lightly, 'But…I suppose I should congratulate you two at the very least. Where was that boy the last time I saw him? Probably competing with Chouji at the buffet-'

NO! 'Um, Shissou!'

'What is it, Sakura?'

'Uh…Naruto…doesn't exactly…'

Tsunade's eyes widened briefly, 'He doesn't know does he?' Sakura shook her head and the Godaime groaned, 'I need a drink.'