Chapter 4
The next day came slower than he wished it would be. Sakura came home last night while he was asleep. If he was going to be honest with himself he was trying to sleep off his nerves. It did mostly help when he woke up this morning. He started his usual routine. He also decided on one of his more fancier casual outfits, which was black pants and a black button up. Ino already scolded him on what he should wear when they were running back to the village. She suggested tighter clothing that was still comfortable for him to wear. The black button up he chose didn’t give him a lot of arm room to move, but he already knew Ino would approve due to the back that the shirt practically kept flexing his muscles with every movement he made. Sasuke didn’t even know how he was going to be comfortable with this at all. He threw his black cloak over it anyways. He sat down at the table with Sakura as they usually did and began to eat. Sakura always took this time to analyze him with her bright curious eyes. They did the dishes together, picking up a good routine. She dried and put them away while he washed them.
Once they finished that up Sakura went to the couch. She grabbed a book from one of the baskets along with a pencil. He did notice that it was a crossword puzzle. Sasuke approached her in a slow manner. She looked up from the book and was met with his face. She shortly felt two fingers poke her on her forehead where her seal was.
“I’ll be back. Wear something nice.”
“Huh! What! Wait don’t le-“
The door shut right behind him leaving a very flustered Sakura on the couch. She wasn’t going to be able to focus. Oh god she has to get ready! Ready for what? Sakura jumped up from the couch. She had no idea how long she had. Why did he have to be so blunt with things like this? In typical Sasuke fashion he left with a smirk on his face.
He arrived at Ino’s place after a brisk walk. He knocked on the door and was greeted by Sai once it was open. Sai had his typical smile on, which he always found creepy.
“Finally you’re here. I bought all the ingredients for Sakura’s favorite foods and from my knowledge from Sakura I got some of your favorite foods too. Don’t worry she has no idea this is from a while back. Also I got some wine for the two of you. This is going to be so perfect. Now show me your outfit. I need to see if you actually know how to present yourself to my best friend.”
Sasuke took off his cloak, folding it and setting it on the chair next to him. If he didn’t know she was in a relationship already he would think she was checking him out.
“Okay, this will definitely work. Your muscles look good and I know she won’t stop staring at you. You might get too hot, but oh well you can just take off your shirt. Anyways, we don’t have time to slack off, we have to start cooking! Most of her favorite foods are all basically dessert so to make it simple we’ll make extra onigiri since it’s your favorite and some Yakitori. I know it’s a lot of food, but Sai is here if we need any help. Plus we have a lot of time. I also have a cute setup for the picnic basket. We’ll leave all the stuff at the location. I’ll keep watching it just in case and like I said yesterday when I see you guys I’ll leave.”
Ino had the bamboo skewers soaking in water. She was cooking the boneless and skinless chicken thighs while Sasuke was handling the scallions for it. The seasoning was already cooking on the chicken. Sasuke added the scallions into the pan once he cut them accordingly. When they were almost done cooking Ino added soy sauce, mixing it around for about a minute before putting it onto a plate. Sasuke was in charge of preparing them. He grabbed the bamboo stick. Alternating between chicken and scallion he filled up the bamboo stick as much as possible. Sasuke had enough to make 6 sticks in total.
Onigiri was the next thing on the list to create. Ino was simply going to lightly season it with salt and not fill it with anything. She began to steam the rice. Typically when Ino made onigiri she made them in a bigger portion so if it was like that she would also make enough to create 6 of them. It was also ideal that they had enough food to cover the whole day since she imagined that they would be there until late that night. As Ino molded the onigiri Sasuke was cutting up fruits for Sakura’s anmitsu. He resorted to peaches and pineapple. Ino had the jelly made already since she always brought Sakura anmitsu when she worked. This jelly match was about a day old, but it’ll work.
Ino finished up the onigiri and she went to automatically to help Sasuke with what he was doing. She added the red bean paste and the mochi. Sasuke already added the green tea ice cream into it. It was in a bowl and presented nicely, due to Ino’s ability to make everything look good. She drizzled the jelly onto the top of it. She sent Sasuke to put it in the fridge so it can cool for now.
Ino already had dango in the fridge so they didn’t need to worry about that. She ordered it yesterday night from Sakura’s favorite place. She made sure to have a cup of syrup she could dip it into. They didn’t have to prepare umeboshi since it was just a fruit. He ended up trying on himself and he hated the taste of it. It was too sour for him. Ino had cut up tomatoes for him and also ones that weren’t cut up.
Everything was set into containers and stacked nicely into the picnic basket. Ino set the wine bottle into the picnic basket along with two wine glasses. She was opting not to include glasses so they could just share the wine bottle, but she decided against it. She just knew they were going to be awkward. The picnic basket rested in the fridge after Ino was able to make room for it.
“So, how did you ask her out on this date?”
“I’ll see you later. Wear something nice.”
“Really? I know either way she started freaking out and that’s what probably is still happening right now. I’m not going to even question it. Plus I know I won’t be able to see that other side that Sakura sees. You’re a very closed off person, but it’s different with Sakura. Am I right?”
“Hn.”
“Why do I even bother? Just don’t force yourself to do anything uncomfortable because Sakura will notice and she’ll get sad that you’re forcing yourself.”
“Wasn’t planning on it.”
“Alright. I think it might be time for you to go get her. It’s been a few hours. I probably should have been there to help her, but you need my help more. She should be able to get herself ready.”
————
“Alright so he said to dress nice. He didn’t say anything fancy so I don’t have to wear a dress. It would be impractical to run in if they needed to run. Maybe something comfortable and cute. If I was Sasuke I would want to do something nice, but I wouldn’t want to go to a restaurant. He would want it to be private so then we can have our moment. I always look good in red so maybe a red top or should I go out of that zone? I’m sure whatever I wear, Sasuke-kun will like, but I don’t want to be under -dressed! So what I’m thinking is either this red mini-dress or this it’s white pants with this off the shoulder top v neck shirt. Would he not be comfortable with me showing my chest so much? I don’t want to make him uncomfortable.”
Daku sat on Sakura’s bed with his head tilted in confusion. Sakura had the two outfits laying on her bed. There were clothes on her floor that she was going to have to pick up eventually. She was panicking over this.
“What am I even doing? Talking to a cat? You won’t even understand me and how are you supposed to help me pick an outfit?”
Sakura hung her head in her hands and sighed. She was already a disaster and she didn't know when the date started. It was a date right? It had to be. Her inner monologue was cut off when she heard a meow from Daku. She lifted her head from her hands. Daku had moved from his position and sat in front of the white pants and v-neck shirt combination.
“Maybe I was wrong. Good kitty. I hope you’re right on this.”
Sakura typically didn’t wear makeup because she didn’t like to. Why would she wear any now? She only wore makeup on special occasions plus it would be too much. In her opinion at least. She ended up taking another shower. Sakura also made sure to blow dry her hair and style it how she usually did.
‘It’s just Sasuke you don’t need to freak out, Sakura.’
Sakura got herself ready. She could already hear Ino in her head to wear the new bra and underwear she got her, but she shot it down since nothing was going to happen like that. Shame on her for thinking like that in the first place. It was hard not to.
She was going to wear her heels either way. She has grown accustomed to wearing them with everything since it did match. Instead of her forehead protector she opted for a red headband to keep her hair in place. She wiped off the dust and cat hair that rested on her outfit. Sakura took a deep breath. She felt like she was ready. When she heard the door open her heart began pounding.
“I’m home.”
Sasuke stated, the noise echoing through the walls. He didn’t receive anything back for a moment, but he heard her voice that it seemed to be coming from her room.
“I’m coming! Shit I didn’t have enough time to clean up. Shannaro I’m such a mess!”
A chuckle escaped Sasuke’s mouth. He stood by the door still. He felt like he couldn’t move once he saw her. Sakura froze too.
“What!? Is there something on my face? Do I need to change? I’m sorry! You said to dress up nice and I th-“
“You look nice.”
“Really?”
“Yes. Let’s go.”
Sakura smiled, skipping to his side. There would be enough time for Ino to get everything together. He’ll make sure of it.
“Daku helped pick out my outfit.”
“How does a cat help?”
“He sat in front of it after I was panicking over it since I wanted to look good for you.”
“You never change.”
—————-
Ino flatten out the plaid blanket onto the grass. She had stuck small wooden stakes, that aren’t visible, to keep the blanket from flying off. She set the picnic basket in the middle of the blanket closer to the front. She set up a vase of flowers in the middle. She mixed up colored roses and orchids to create the perfect arrangement for this outing.
Off in the distance she could spot Sasuke and Sakura. Sasuke was leading her the whole way, also holding her hand. Sakura had a huge smile on her face and she swore she could hear her laughing. This put a huge smile on Ino’s face. It made her very happy for her best friend. She couldn’t wait to hear about the date when the time came. Ino took off once she was done admiring the young couple. She felt like a mom seeing their daughter succeed in something important to her. Ino traveled in the opposite direction until she was able to turn around so they wouldn’t see her. At least she knew that the next time everyone would hang out Sakura wouldn’t feel lonely.
“I’m glad that I wore what I wore since it is kinda chilly. Where are you taking me, Sasuke-kun?”
“You’ll see.”
The both of them walked up the hill. A few seconds later the picnic came into view. A gasp escaped from Sakura’s mouth and her face when she looked up at Sasuke.
“Am I dreaming?”
“No.”
Sasuke led Sakura to the blanket. He helped her sit down before he took a seat next to Sakura. The both of them took off their sandals, leaving them next to the blanket. He glanced over at Sakura and he noticed there were a few tears rolling down her face.
“What’s wrong?”
“Nothing, I’m just so happy right now. I just didn’t expect this.”
“I’m glad you like it. I had Ino help me. I wanted it to be as perfect as it could.”
“Thank you.”
Sasuke replied with a smile. He undid his cloak, folding it next to his sandals. His eyes went to Sakura who was just blushing at the sight of the outfit.
“Let me guess you also listened to Ino about what to wear. If so, you definitely got me looking. You look very handsome, Sasuke-kun.”
Sasuke’s face dusted a light blush in this compliment. She chuckled, opening the picnic basket. She was greeted with a lot of food, mostly it being her favorite. Her eyes lit up as she unpacked the basket. Everything was nicely packed. She took out the plates and set one in front of her then Sasuke. She got out the bottle of wine, leaving it next to the basket. Sakura got out the bottle of water for them and placed them next to their plates. She took out a piece of umeboshi and tossed it into her mouth. A groan in satisfaction escaped her throat.
“I don’t know how you eat those.”
“What, umeboshi? Have you even tried one?”
“Yes, too sour for my tasting.”
“Not surprised. Do you want anything to eat right now? I could just give you a few tomatoes to munch on for now. We have a lot of food to hold us out until tonight.”
“Ah, that is fine. I plan on watching the stars with you tonight.”
“I’m looking forward to it!”
Sakura placed her hand on top of his. She sent him a reassuring smile while she placed a few tomatoes on his plate. She pulled her hand away to give him the opportunity to eat. She took a bite of the dango she got out of the basket.
“Even though we are dating I feel like I don’t know you as well as I used to. I would like to get to know you again.”
“Oh okay! Same goes for you! So I’ll start with this, when I’m drunk I’m a very angry and loud drunk. People have also told me I’m really flirty.”
“I’ve never drank so much so I don’t know about myself.”
“That’s okay! Some people just don’t like to drink! You probably already know this, but I like to do brain games and puzzles in my spare time just so I can exercise my brain.”
“With my time traveling I would enter villages to help civilians as much as I could. I learned how to do woodwork with one arm that way.”
“Is that why you asked if you could make me a coffee table? That’s so sweet of you!”
“Hn.”
“I’m really good with kids. When I have time I enjoy visiting the clinic I created for them just so I can play with them and not have to worry about working.”
“I’m an animal person, but I like cats the most.”
“I could tell because of Daku.”
Sakura placed an onigiri on her plate. She looked over at Sasuke asking if he wanted one with her eyes. He responded with a nod. Using her chopsticks she placed them on his plate.
“When I’m bored I like to challenge random men to arm wrestling just to see their faces when a small female with pink hair beats them. It’s also nice when I win money.”
“That must fuel your ego.”
“It certainly does.”
“When I get the chance I enjoy reading science and biology books.”
“Ooo, I have some that you can read! I’ll show you when we get back or even tomorrow.”
“Okay.”
“This might surprise you, but I’m really good at torturing people.”
“I would not expect something like that from you.”
“My shishou has shown me a lot. It’s rather scary if you think about it. A medical ninja knows every part of your body so they know how it would react to certain torture. I haven’t needed to torture anyone, but I’m prepared if I’m needed to.”
Sasuke nodded to it. They sat in comfortable silence for a while as they ate. She did notice that all of her favorite foods were included and that made her heart skip a beat. He must really like her a lot to put this much effort into a date. She was just really happy. Sakura enjoyed the view that was in front of her. It gave a perfect view of the village and of the mountains.
“When did you find this spot?”
“When I left for my redemption.”
“I’m assuming you have other spots.”
“Yes, I plan on showing you one day.”
“You always know how to make my heart race.”
“Heh.”
She rested her head on his shoulder.
“One day I want you to teach me medical ninjutsu.”
“Really?”
“Yes, it would be helpful in missions.”
“I would love to. I’ve been teaching Hanabi since she asked me. Also that reminds me I’ve been trying to get the academy to teach medical ninjutsu or at least teach more about medicine. I want the future academy students to have a safe ninja life and not experience what we had.”
“I agree.”
“I wish we had everything we have now, medical wise. You and Naruto didn’t deserve to suffer like you did. If both of you had the help you needed. You two could have been very different people with a happier life.”
Sakura squeezed his hand to give comfort.
“If only.”
Silence filled their world once again. Sakura pulled a piece of onigiri apart with her chopsticks. She brought the chopsticks in front of Sasuke’s face to feed him. He accepted the onigiri seconds later.
“My mother would have liked you.”
“Where did this come from?”
“Just a thought.”
“Knowing her she would find every way to make you stay at the compound.”
“Speaking of the compound, do you want to restore it? I know it’s just you now, but in the future when it comes they need a place to stay.”
“I’ll think about it.”
“You know if you think about it we’re technically the most powerful couple in the village. With your last fight with Naruto it showed you were equals and I’ve been declared the strongest kunoichi.”
“Heh.”
The tone came out more cocky than expected. A smirk did form on his lips. Sakura responded with another smile. Today she couldn’t stop smiling.
“You want to know something that not a lot of people know?”
“Sure.”
“I actually have a very muscular body. With all the strength training I endured it’s very expected. Ino was caught off guard when she saw my abs for the first time.”
“Hn. One day we’ll train.”
“Sounds like a plan.”
They continued to eat the food in front of them. Sakura ended up pouring them a glass of wine each. Ino must have chosen the wine because it matched well with the food.
“I am more of a wine drinker. You seem more like a beer or sake drinker, Sasuke-kun.”
“Those are the only ones I’ve drank.”
“Maybe one day we can taste test alcohol together!”
“Okay.”
Sakura set her plate aside next to her glass of wine. Adjusting herself, she laid down on the blanket. This felt really good on her back. Sasuke didn’t join her, but he invited her to lay on his lap. She agreed, adjusting herself a second time to lay on him. Her legs dangled off of the blanket near her sandals. His fingers massaged her scalp. That gained a low hum from Sakura. Closing her eyes, she continued to enjoy the massage she was receiving.
“Open your mouth.”
Sakura did and a piece of umeboshi landed in her mouth. The sourness filled her mouth as she swallowed it.
“Thank you for this amazing date, Sasuke-kun. I know we’re barely a few hours into it, but I’ve never had anyone do this for me. Also thank you for going to Ino for advice so you could make this date as perfect as possible for me. I will have to thank her.”
“Naruto gave terrible advice.”
“You went to him for advice?”
“No, I told him about us and he made fun of us not having a date yet.”
“Well, not all of us were in his situation plus he’s known for rushing into things.”
“Heh.”
“You wanna know what’s kinda funny?”
“Hm?”
“Both you and I have had our first kiss with Naruto.”
“When did you kiss Naruto?”
“During the war.”
Sakura opened her eyes and she saw a very jealous look on Sasuke’s face. She then started laughing.
“It was actually a couple of times. I had to physically pump his heart while giving him cpr. No need to be jealous.”
“Hn.”
“Don’t be butthurt.”
“I’m not.”
Sakura sat up to take a sip of her wine.
“You know if the wine is too much for you, you can put ice in it to dilute it.”
“It’s fine.”
“If you say so.”
Time went by quicker than they expected. They slowly learned more stuff about each other along with some more family things Sasuke wanted to share with Sakura. She felt very happy he was able to open up like that to him.
“Also, sorry to mention this now, but in my office I have two therapists you can pick from that’ll help you.”
“Thank you.”
“Anything for you, Sasuke-kun.”
The sun began to set. A pink and orange hue plagued the sky. Sasuke and Sakura had mostly finished all the food and the wine. Sakura drank a little bit more than Sasuke, but both of them could feel it. They put everything away and moved the basket to the side.
“Did you know there are estimated to be up to 400 billion stars in the galaxy, and over 500 million galaxies in the Universe. That’s what astronomers say at least. Anyways, do you have a favorite constellation? Mine is orion.”
“When I was younger, when Itachi and I would look at the stars I was always fond of the Big Dipper.”
“Makes sense.”
Sakura rested her head on Sasuke’s chest. His arm wrapped around her waist.
“Thank you for this day, Sakura.”
“You were the one that planned it, give yourself more credit.”
“You made it better.”
“Sasuke-kun?”
Sasuke sat up. His eyes catching Sakura’s. She adjusted herself to look at him better. His eyes went to her lips before they went back to her eyes. She noticed, but didn’t say a thing.
“Can I kiss you?”
Sakura nodded, leaning into Sasuke. Their lips met shortly after. Sakura pulled away to make sure everything was okay. Her face was dusted with red and it was the same for Sasuke. A few seconds of just looking at each other they leaned in again. This kiss being more passionate than the other. She pulled her body closer to his. Her arms wrapped around his neck while he had his arm on her waist. They pulled away. Sakura had a big smile on her face while Sasuke had a smirk on his.
“Do you want to stay here for a little bit? I don’t feel like leaving yet.”
“That’s fine with me.”
They found each other back into the same cuddle position before. Sakura did want to leave the feeling she had right now.