Rosuto Sachi- Chapter Six

Disclaimer : I do not own any of the Naruto characters, though my story is mine and my ideas are also mine.

Thoughts, dreams, and flashbacks are in italics.

The man's hands splayed possessively on her stomach, his fingers branding her. The warmth of his arms and back mixed with the scent of spicy cologne seeped into her, making her sink into his sturdy arms.

Feeling his hot breath on her ear Sakura inhaled sharply as the man purred . "Missed me fire blossom?"

Her eyes widening at his deep voice washed over her, she felt his chest rumble with his words the vibrations travelling into her body sending shivers into her system.

Turning slowly she was met with burning saffron eyes, and immediately she was swept away.

Gazing shockingly at the man holding her, she let her lips stretch into an inviting smile. Looking up she gazed into the man's intense eyes as they returned her welcoming gaze.

"You made it" she said softly.

The corner of the man's lips lifted slightly, and only Sakura in her close proximity could see the way his eyes softened the tiniest bit.

Lifting her hands she snaked them around his neck pressing herself more firmly against his solid frame. Leaning forward she whispered in his ear, her sweet breath fanning along his neck. "I missed you, Pein."

Feeling his arms tighten around her Sakura inwardly smirked aware that most people were watching them each discretely hoping to find out what their relationship was.

Releasing her arms from around his neck she let her hands run down his strong shoulders as she smoothed away invisible creases.

Being an influential member of society Sakura was not weak, but in the arms of the most dangerous man in the country she felt most empowered.

In the higher circles it was well known that Haruno Sakura was a woman not to be trifled with. She was known not only for her keen intelligence and looks, but for her connections with societies elite. Her quick rise to position of head of the hospital and top surgeon in the country caught the eyes of many. With her power and influence on a continuous rise her popularity with men was increasing at a high rate.

Many influential men had tried to get with famous surgeon and failed, and it that led to speculation that the pink haired woman had a secret lover. Whenever she was asked about the matter she would smile mysteriously and say "Who knows, maybe I do, maybe I don't."

The whispers in the banquet hall were steadily growing louder and more pronounced.

"Looks like the rumours might be true after all." Said one man.

The woman beside him nodded her head "They look very familiar with one another, and I haven't seen Sakura-san this relaxed with anyone before."

Tilting her head back Sakura let her tinkling laugh be heard . "Always the affectionate one aren't you." She teased as she slowly stepped out of the circle of his arms.

Shaking his head slowly, he gazed at her silently, his eyes filled with dark amusement.

Wrapping his arm around her waist he stood confidently as they were approached by hopeful people wanting to get into their good graces.

Standing amongst a group of tittering women with the rest of his friends, Sasuke felt his jaw drop slightly. He stared speechlessly at the woman in front of him.

Sakura,who was known as Konoha's sweetheart back during their university days, was gone.

The woman in her place was a young woman confident in her power and looks. Her eyes were no longer soft and showing of innocence. Instead they were now intense and filled with sharp awareness holding a shadow that comes with bitter experience. Gone were the simple and youthful clothes she used to wear. Now she dressed in designer brands and walking with grace not unlike that of royalty.

Moving his gaze to the man holding her he fought off a chill that was creeping down his spine. Sakura, this new intimidating woman who left most men in the room breathless, was wrapped in the arms of the most terrifying man in Konoha and the fire country.

Beside him he faintly heard Shikamaru mumble "Troublesome, more troublesome then Ino on her period" under his breath.

Breathing sharply through his nose Sasuke silently agreed with his dark haired friend. Troublesome would not cut it, and Yamanaka on her off days in all her bitchiness was nothing combined to the trouble they would find themselves in.

They're very first meeting in six years and already everyone was at Sakura's throat. But with the addition of Akatsuki's Pein things were taken to a whole new level.

Everyone knew that the man was notorious for being ruthless and heartless. A man that was feared in all the underground for his man power and influence, and in high society for his wealth and ambition.

Looking discretely around him he could see that friends had similar reactions to him. Neji was looking emotionless like always but the miniscule tightness around his eyes showed that he was not as unaffected as he seemed.

Naruto was staring intently at his first love. His eyes were wide and his hands were clenched into tight fists.

Sighing inwardly the younger Uchiha cursed the heavens for making this meeting happen.

His brother was surrounded by women as usual most throwing their assets in his face. The look on his face though was completely blank. Not a single emotion or gesture was coming from him pertaining to what he was feeling.

Watching as a few men approached Itachi and shook hands with him, he saw his brother shift his attention from Sakura.

'What was I expecting?' Smirking to himself he turned and clapped Naruto on the shoulder. "Come on there is no point in us standing here staring like fools."

Excusing himself from the women surrounding him with a wink and nod of his head he went to stand beside Shikamaru who was engaged in a conversation with one of the guests.

Deciding to stop paying attention to Sakura, Sasuke thanked Shikamaru silently as he engaged him in conversation.

Even with that said the younger Uchiha was left feeling lost. The woman he could see from the corner of his eye was a total stranger. Someone who looked like Sakura but was not her at all.

Smiling Sakura walked between her guests speaking to whomever approached her and nodding with twinkle in her eyes to those who made eye contact with her.

Making her way to the stage Sakura turned to one of the ushers and asked for a mic. Thanking the man with a smile the young hostess made her way to the center of the stage and stood behind the podium.

Looking at the gathered masses she made note of the happy aura circling the room and the clusters of people.

In front of the stage and around the grand room were circular tables that served as places for dining and talks of business. Many of the tables were full of guests laughing and talking with one another.

In the middle of the hall was a dance floor filled with dancing couples, the classic music seeping through speakers making the atmosphere calming and lighthearted.

The waiters were going around giving drinks and replacing empty glasses. The caterers making sure the no food was running low at the refreshment tables.

Letting her eyes drift toward the crowd she sought out one particular individual. Finding him standing next to another man with a glass in his hand she smile to herself.

Gesturing toward the hall manager she waited until the music started to fade and watched as the guests turned to give her their attention one by one.

When she saw that everyone was looking at her she addressed them. "I know you guys are enjoying this evening so much but...As you know all good things must come to an end. However due to the fact our guests of honour were late to their own party we will hand out the awards now."

Smiling at the crowd Sakura took a deep breath and continued to speak. "I would like to ask now all of our esteemed top donors to please make their way up to the stage so they can receive their awards." Watching as the men made their way to the stage she turned her attention away.

Taking the list from the podium in front of her she looked at it and smiled grimly to herself. ' Can't believe I'm doing this'

"Uzumaki Naruto." Watching in slow motion, the blonde haired man separated from the gathered men on stage and walked towards her. His eyes were holding hers, a deep blue staring intensely into her icy emerald ones.

Shaking his hand she plastered a fake smile on her face and handed him the award. "Thank you for your contributions."

Nodding his head Naruto took the award and smiled as he stood beside her, watching as camera's flashed and pictures were taken of them.

Looking at Sakura he gave a wide smile and winked at her, causing the crowd to laugh lightly at his actions. Turning his back to the audience he let the smile slip off his face as he clenched his jaw tightly and left the stage to join the crowd.

Watching as people congratulated him with handshakes and smiles, Sakura waited until she had everyone's attention.

"Nara Shikamaru." She said turning to her side to face the upcoming man.

The pineapple haired man walked slowly to the pink haired woman, his gait portraying the usual boredom. Taking the pinkette's hand he let a sigh out of his mouth as she thanked him in a cheery voice.

Standing beside her he waited as the camera's stopped flashing and walked off the stage to join Naruto.

"Hyuga Neji."

Smiling at him as he came forward, she handed him his award and thanked him watching as he responded stiffly. Smirking inwardly to herself Sakura stepped closer to him as he camera's flashed watching discretely as he stiffened.

Laughing lightly she said in a teasing voice. "Oh relax Neji-san, I'm not going to bite."

The man beside her looked at her sharply before letting a small smirk come across his mouth. "A man can never be too sure Sakura-san, women these days can not be underestimated."

Smiling at him she replied "I could not agree more, its about time men stopped underestimating us." Turning to the crowd who was watching the exchange with interest she winked "Right ladies? After all it is said that behind every great man is a great woman. " The women in the audience started to cheer and clap, and the men watched in amusement their dates started to call out to Sakura.

Shaking his head the dark haired Hyuga walked off the stage and joined the rest of his friends. Waiting until he left the stage Sakura waited until everyone settled down before continuing. "Alright next up is Uchiha Sasuke."

The dark haired Uchiha walked confidently up to Sakura, shaking her hand and receiving his award. Standing beside her he watched as the flashes went off blinding his eyes. As soon as they ended he smiled at Sakura and gave a small bow and turned to join his friends.

Taking a deep breath Sakura picked up the mic. Last one, I can do this. "Alright now, last but not least Uchiha Itachi." It seemed as though time slowed down as the raven haired Uchiha made his way toward her. His steps were quiet and confidant, His fathomless eyes holding hers prisoner.

Steeling herself inwardly she let routine take and over and easily slipped into role of hostess. Smiling widely at the man in front of her she extended her hand to him and watched as he reached forward grasping her delicate hand in his rough callused one.

Pulling back from him she ignored the fact that her fingers lightly trailed the length of his hand as she removed her hand. Lowering her head slightly in a tilt she handed him his award and said "Thank you, Uchiha-san for your generous contributions."

She watched as he tilted his head at her and replied in a low timber that sent shivers through the listeners spines. "You are most welcome Sakura-san."

Turning to face the front of the stage the young pair stood as many flashes went off, their pictures being taken by those present.

Watching as the Uchiha heir walked off the stage Sakura turned back to the mic."This evening was an amazing one and I know that I will not forget it for days to come. Thank you to all who attended today and made this night one that everyone will talk about. A great big thank you to all our workers and attendees for helping make this event happen so smoothly...really you guys deserve the best of praise."

Everyone watching the pink haired women clapped and smiled. "Now, it is my honour to make the call for the last dance. So enough talk and lets make a great ending to this memorable night."

The lights dimmed as Sakura made her way off the stage and into the crowd. Walking at a steady pace she looked around until she spotted the person she was looking for.

Turning around Pein watched silently as Sakura walked toward him. Her steps confidant and her gaze steady as she locked eyes with him.

When she was in arms length he reached forward and wrapped a strong arm around her waist, bringing her flush against his chest.

The pink haired woman sighed and wrapped her arms around her lovers neck letting the tension in her body seep out as they swayed to the music.

"You did well." He murmured into her ear his lips brushing lightly against her lobe. Letting out a soft sigh Sakura leaned back and smiled at him softly.

"It had to be done. Showing weakness was not an option." Slowly her hands brushed the hair at the nape of his neck massaging his neck lightly.

Placing his hands firmly on her hips, he pulled her back to him. "I'm proud of you blossom, and I cant wait to get you out of this dress." He purred in a voice that sent shivers through Sakura's delicate frame.

Slowly the couple swayed to the music seemingly unaware or choosing to ignore all the eyes set upon them.

Her lips curling in contented smile Sakura said. "You do realize that now were going to be the center of the medias attention for the next month or so right? With you're reputation and all I wont be getting any privacy for a while."

Raising his eyebrow slightly he looked at Sakura with suppressed amusement. "People talking is nothing new, Eventually the news would have spread."

Rolling her eyes at the man holding her Sakura opened her mouth to argue but was stopped by a warm finger on her mouth.

No longer looking amused, the orange haired man looked at her with intense eyes. "I wont let anyone hurt you."

Hearing those six words, Sakura felt her heart flutter. Her arms tightened around Pein and she said in a voice so soft that it was barley legible. "I know." And she did. She knew that regardless of what happened between them Pein would always be there. He was the constant in her life that she could not do without.

Slowly in the back of her mind she heard the band finishing up and people started to leave. Sighing as their moment had ended she pulled back slowly, her hands trailing from Pein's neck to his solid chest.

Taking a step back she turned on her heel and went near the entrance of the hall. People were leaving and she had a role to play.

First off I owe everyone a huge apology. I am deeply sorry that I have not updated in forever. I personally understand as a fellow reader how frustrating it is to not see an update in a long time. I honest to god was not expecting to be which such an obstacle.

Writing this chapter was like pulling teeth for me. I have a severe writers block and cant seem to put together two sentences. I have rewritten this chapter multiple times until I was satisfied with it and to be honest I'm not fully satisfied but I'm not redoing it for the nth time. You will find that this chapter is shorter than all my other ones but I did not want to extend the waiting anymore.

Other than my unfortunate writers block there are many things going on in my life. However life has a way screwing us over and there is nothing we can do about it. I understand that many of my readers are probably upset with my lack of updates and once again I apologize for that.

It was all your reviews and messages that kept me going and smiling. Please keep them coming, I love to hear from everyone and hope that wont give up on this story.

With that all said I am looking for a beta for my story. I read and re-read looking for mistakes but lots of times I miss them. Having a beta would be very helpful as they would be able to help me edit my work and correct the many mistakes, and also to push me to update faster. If any of you are interested please contact me through a review or pm.

Note: As I have not updated in a long time many have thought that I abandoned this story. Please be aware that I am NOT going to stop writing this story until it finished or there's some life threatening crisis going on. It may take me a while to get out each chapter but they will come out.

Special thanks goes out to: Renee-chan11, frenchesca , angel897,Akatsuki Sakura Uchiha ,AngelFox23 ,Namine17 ,Storyguy567, StarlitBaby ,Evee9109 ,Zakuro120 ,minniemousemom, GreekLia ,Lolita NinjaX3 ,cherryvampiress ,cherryjubilee ,Lorem tenebrae, won't be the Victim ,Geanymaus ,TearfullPixie ,krazykoreangurl ,Kathy Hye Mi Lee ,violentblossom, snorkabuziaczek ,Sakura00017, Cheyenne Uchiha ,KuRaI-BlOsSoM ,catlover123456789 ,NejiSakuKiba ,messy-hair-day ,Nekothelostbutterfly ,ChuluSempai18, HalfBloodPhoenix ,NorthernLights25 ,,CBL ,maxsunnyAK 47 ,Poptart-Freak ,AngelFox ,yuchi1994 ,brokenmaelstrom,kaori and yoshi ,misao91 ,The-Hatter44 ,misfitgirl92 ,xoxoJinxxehxoxo ,qawashere ,naive-toots ,LadyDV011 1 ,hellsmile89 ,Kurenai no Chinoumi ,akiremichan ,abigial ,SlanderousDoll,Bor Vampire ,Rayen Trenton ,ArtIsAnEternity ,natalie ,Sapphire ,lovexwatermelonx, thelandofmakebelieve ,DarkItachi22 ,Black Wolf Lady ,ZephyrPhoenix ,Kira The Dead Ninja ,florababy101 ,lydia ,Stupidityislimitless, AUTHORESSOFDOOM XD ,alphaladywolf ,takara410 ,Sakura4eva ,Lil-BabYAnG3L ,SweetCh3rry ,sakura1459wanda ,teshinea, NorthernLights1239 mura Melyss ,Weaselandcherry .

Signed,

DarkAngelLida