Hello my lovely readers! I can't even put into words how sorry I am for not updating in the longest of times (9 months to be exact D: ) I guess I mainly just didn't know how to continue the plot at the moment. I pretty much know how the story will end, but it's just these last few chapters that I'm really struggling with. Life's been pretty fast-paced at the moment haha. I just started college and midterms just passed so now that I have some down time with Thanksgiving coming up, I was finally able to really build up enough courage and excitement to write out this chapter! Thank you so sosososoooo much to all of you out there who still keep up with this story. I read through most of your guys' past reviews and that really was the true reason that I finally decided to update. You guys keep me motivated and so happy all the time so I'm eternally grateful to all of you out there! So thank you again for sticking through this one heck of a journey with me and I hope you guys enjoy this chapter, read, and review! :DD Lots of love 3

Previous Chapter:

Just settling into her third day in Kiri, though, Sakura had been wiping away the last dish before depositing it in her kitchen sink. The living room window was Sakura's favorite part of the entire apartment. It expanded through the entire wall of the living room almost resembling a wall sized window, but only the top half of the wall was all window. But it gave her a beautiful panoramic view of the city which took on a lovely glow during sunset. Her favorite feature about the window was the left side of the window-wall, which was pushed out into a semicircle so that if she looked down from it, she could see the bottom of the streets. The semi circle window's bottom half was all cushion seating though, almost like a small bed so Sakura could curl up on.

Which was what she was doing right now.

Leaning against one side of the semi-circle window, Sakura nursed a cup of jasmine tea in her cold hands before looking idly out at the window. The weather at Kiri was much chillier than other countries, mainly since it was surrounded by the ocean and contained small waterfalls throughout its country which drifted its occasional sprays of water through the village.

As Sakura's thoughts drifted towards the thoughts of her friends and family back in Konoha, the medic's inner ramblings were cut off short when she heard the distinct distant sound of heavy footfalls in a rhythmic manner. Brows furrowing in slight confusion, she slightly perched onto her knees, looking around until she had her cheek pressed against the outer most part of the semi circle window. And there she saw it, the unmistakable figures dressed in dark forest green in impeccably straight lines jogging around a large courtyard.

It was the training grounds.

Where Itachi must be.

All of a sudden, countless of questions rushed through her head, bombarding her until she couldn't think straight. Was he out in the courtyard? Would she be able to see him from the window? Do they allow visitors? Did he want to see her?

Tea now left cold on the ground beside the cushion seats of the window, Sakura had haphazardly shoved her feet into her shoes before running outside in the cold afternoon, not caring that she was dressed in her pj pants and large knit sweater.

Breath coming out in white puffs of air, Sakura kept a brisk jog until the gates she had seen from her window appeared. Coming to a stop in from of the gates, she looked up at the guard, a nice looking man regardless of his large frame and muscular torso.

"Can I be of assistance to you Miss?" The man's deep voice reverberated through the stillness of the air as Sakura managed to catch her breath.

"..um..y..yea. Are these men training for the Konoha military?" The man gave a short nod.

"Do they…" Sakura hesitated, fearing she would sound idiotic, "do they accept visitors?" Sakura's voice contained a slightly pained edge of hope. And the guard must have noticed, for he had given her an apologetic smile before shaking his head.

"No, I'm sorry Miss. Since they are in training, they aren't allowed visitors. But you are free to write letters."

Smiling ruefully at the man, Sakura nodded her head.

"Yea…I know." Sakura stated softly before turning around to head back, but not before catching a man within the gates looking at her almost familiarly.

Who was he?

Did she know him?

Dressed in the standard dark green mesh shirt and baggy cargo pants, he was in the line of men doing something that Sakura assumed to be exercise drills, push-ups, jumping jacks and the like. But he had slowed in his movements as he stared into her eyes before stopping altogether.

Turning back around to face him fully, Sakura tilted her head to the side, almost as if in question to him. Quite startlingly, the man suddenly let out one of the most brilliantly bright smiles she's seen before, almost as bright as Naruto's. His hand rose halfway to wave and just as he opened his mouth, the head of the squad spotted him and had barked at him to get back into formation. Seeing him flinch, he had belted back in compliance, falling back into the drills all the while keeping his eyes locked with her as if afraid that she would disappear once he blinked. His gaze upon her looked pleading almost but excited and this only served to confuse the pinkette even further.

She was sure she would have remembered him if she had ever met him before. But…he looked so familiar. Yet, not really.

Her thoughts were broken when the guard had called to her questioningly. And that's when Sakura painfully ripped her emerald orbs away from the mysterious man's and turned around before heading back to her apartment.

Soon after, the man's strange gaze was almost stored away deep into her mind as Sakura's medical duties called to her day after day. She didn't really know why he had been looking at her for so long or why he had smiled and almost called out to her. But the doctor knew she couldn't focus on that. Her entire being was to be thrown into the diagnosis and healing of Juro-san.

And so that's what she focused on for the following weeks. Every day it was the same routine of wake-up, heal him, come back home, and eat dinner. Afterwards would be spent curled up on the window seat with a mug of tea, coffee, or hot chocolate on certain days as she stared down into the courtyard of the training facility-each day with muted hope that it would be the day that she could catch even just a glimpse of the man she was falling in love with.

"Baby cousin."

Said-cousin merely raised an eyebrow up at the man standing before him, eyes not once leaving the paper in front of him.

After so many years of his older cousin addressing him in that way, Itachi had finally gotten used to the name and answered to it.

Feeling his bed dip slightly, Itachi paid no mind to it as he continued to look over the letter, a small smile gently adorning his face.

"I think I saw Sakura today."

What?

Head snapping up fast, Itachi looked intensely at his cousin, waiting for an explanation.

"It was in the courtyard right before dinner. She was at the gates and I swear I saw her Itachi. Pink hair…the greenest eyes I've ever seen, nose all pink and huffing. And I tried to call out to her, but my captain caught me before that. But she saw me. She definitely saw me. Does she know of me?"

Itachi merely nodded his head numbly, swallowing the dry lump that was forming in his throat.

"Yes," he finally croaked, "I've told her about you, but she doesn't know of your appearance." He finished softly.

But as he quickly scanned over her letter, his heart hitched when he found that she was indeed, in Kiri.

"She's here." Itachi finally said, "on a medical assignment. Her letter just came in today."

Shisui smiled before chuckling lightly.

"Well then. I believe it's time for you to meet the love of your life 'Tachi-Kun"

The day had been not as great as normal. The pink-haired doctor just couldn't seem to find the right balance between medications in order to treat Juro-san. It seemed that each time she fed him a ratio of medicines, another problem soon appeared. And today was extremely cold and Sakura had been asked to take on a shift at the Kiri Medical Center to overlook patients and do the occasional healing so she had arrived back to her apartment at nearly ten p.m. And really, Sakura knew she shouldn't be complaining since back at home her regular shifts ended her normally at around ten p.m., if not even later on most days. She had just been so used to the shorter days when she could arrive back at home before dinner time. But as soon as she spotted the familiar elegant scrawl of handwriting on a certain envelope, Sakura had squealed in delight before leaping into her bed to read the recently written letter.

6/18/11

Dear Sakura,

I am most definitely glad to hear that you are well and even more pleased to know that you are currently located within Kiri, though I do extend my condolences for the continuous cold weather just when the weather in Konoha was warming considerably. But I have come to enjoy the ongoing light breeze the occasionally rolls throughout this city. I am always contained within these training grounds but I can see the stunning view from the gates of the courtyard. This reminds me of another thought though. My cousin today had informed me that he had spotted you near the gates of the training grounds. I believe that I have never described my cousin's appearance before in any of my letters. But I am sure that the man you saw was my overly-excited cousin, Shisui Uchiha.

And though I quite hate in admitting it, I am very envious of my older cousin, for he has been able to rest his eyes on you. I have waited countless days until my release date so I can finally arrive home in hopes of being able to see you. He said you had the softest shade of pink tresses and the most brilliant emerald eyes. I do deeply regret not being in the courtyard today for I have missed my opportunity of greeting you. I am not quite sure of when I will be able to see you, but I greatly hope that it will be soon. I wish to confirm Shisui's description of you that I am sure does not give you the justice you deserve. But we have three months within the same city together so I am sure we will be able to figure out a way of seeing each other. I am very well and healthy at the moment and I owe a great deal of that to your concern and kind letters. It gives me a hope that there are better things in life than just war and blood. You have been my savior within these long months confined in these walls. I wait for the day when we will be able to see each other every day-greet each other every day –spend time with each other every day. My sentiments in this letter, to me, feel like movie-worthy lines. But I do not know any other ways to express my current feelings towards you Sakura. I find myself drawn to your spirit and I can only hope that you return my sentiments. But until next time, please take care of yourself and I wish you the greatest of wishes for your assignment.

Love,

Itachi

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21 Letters

Chapter Nine

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July had rolled by quickly and along with it, the humid heat of the season. The streets were crowded with villagers bustling about with twice the usual amount of people walking through the dirt streets. Street vendors of all kinds could be found waving customers in while attempting to charmingly sell them their products.

For one pink-haired medic though, was misery brought in the form of sweat and exhaustion. With the merciless hot rays of the sun beating down onto Sakura, she grumbled under her breath continuously while trudging through the throng of people.

"Ohh, it's Kiri! The weather's gonna be so nice during the summer! You won't feel a thing!" Sakura mimicked Ino's high-pitched breath, tossing her hands side to side.

"Won't feel a thing my ass…" The medic muttered while angrily wiping sweat off her brow.

Though the village was located on an island, the cold sea winds did no help with the summer heat. That along with the densely packed amount of people in the streets quickly escalated the temperature to unbearable in Sakura's books. With a bundle of medicinal herbs tucked under her arm and reading texts in the other, Sakura made her way swiftly past various streets, glancing along different shops.

The mid-summer festival was approaching soon, causing the villagers of Kiri to begin preparing for that one spectacular night. Sakura had heard of the festival countless times before by many of her friends back in Konoha who had been lucky enough to travel to Kiri just at the time that the festival would happen. There were rumors of fireworks, food, dancing, shopping, festivities, and something about a fish that Naruto had mentioned once...

Sakura quickly shook the thought out of her head. She remembered vividly of the time Ino came back from her two week long stay in Kiri with a long heavy garment bag thrown over her shoulder. After much fussing, the two had unzipped the bag to find, in Sakura's eyes, the most beautiful kimono to have graced her emerald green eyes. And it had been a gift from Ino to Sakura.

Smiling, the pink-haired doctor laughed softly at the memory of her practically pouncing on Ino the moment she had seen it. Simultaneously, a wave of homesickness washed over her, making her slow in her tracks. It had been just over one month in Sakura's stay at Kirigakure with just two letters passing between her and Itachi.

Itachi.

Flushing at even the thought of the Uchiha, Sakura ducked her head. As mean as it sounded, Sakura wished it was Itachi instead of Shisui that she had seen at the gates of the training facility. Though it was nice to see someone of relation to Itachi, Sakura knew she was being greedy and picky and had hoped to see the man that she loved.

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Closing the door behind her in a rush to escape the heat, Sakura quickly flipped on the air conditioner before changing into her pjs and flopping down onto the bed. Tucking a hand behind her head of pink tresses, Sakura stared up at the ceiling with Itachi's last letter clutched loosely between her nimble fingers.

'He was perfect in every way.'

That was the first thought that popped into Sakura's head once her racing mind had settled down a bit and her thoughts began to process more clearly. Her mind automatically began to run words through her head that described Uchiha Itachi.

He was kind. Caring. Thoughtful. Witty. Gentle. Humorous. Patient. Intelligent. Deep. And strong. More so that in just one way.

And she was absolutely, completely, utterly, wholeheartedly

In love with him.

In love with Uchiha Itachi.

"I'm…in love with Uchiha Itachi…hah…" Sakura whispered out before letting out a small huff of laughter at the end, ensuring to herself that she had gone mad. Allowing the full effect of her words to finally sink in, the pink-haired doctor finally fell back onto her bed before smushing her face into the pillows and letting out a girlish squeal-flailing limbs and all.

To finally acknowledge these feelings out loud were novel to Sakura. And she wasn't sure how to go about it anymore. Part of her wanted to run as fast as she could towards Itachi and fling her arms around his neck. Part of her didn't know what to do out of nervousness and butterflies. It was like high school all over again. And then another part of her mind began to raise doubts.

What if he didn't love her back?

What if he thought of her only as a good friend or companion?

Sure Sasuke had confirmed Itachi's feelings towards her but still…

Turning her head throughout the room, her bright green eyes landed on the vase of colorful orange and pink freesias sitting by her windowsill, reminding Sakura of the young boy in Ino's flower shop who had been so reluctant to share his feelings with the one he loved. Upon telling Sakura his doubts, she thought back to what she had advised to the uncertain boy.

"How will you ever know if you don't try? You've got one shot at life kid. Take a leap, it won't hurt you. It can only make you stronger."

Maybe it was time that she listened to her own advice.

"Doctor Haruno, there's a general meeting with the Directors in five!" Megumi, the nurse-in-training popped her head around the corner to inform the medic.

Wiping her mouth while swallowing a large bite of her lunch, Sakura smiled and thanked Megumi-chan. Such a sweet girl, but such nervous hands. Chuckling slightly, the pink-haired doctor quickly wolfed down the last remnants of her soba and salmon (Itachi's favorite, which Sakura had come to realize was a delicious combo) before collecting her notes and heading out.

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Heels clicking on the linoleum floors, the medic rounded the corner towards the heavy set double doors that encased all staff personnel inside. Having been to many of these kinds of meetings back in Konoha, Sakura had gotten accustomed to the ones in Kiri quite quickly. The only difference, Sakura noticed, would be the branching of the doctors. Sakura had caught on quickly to the Kirigakure General Hospital's work strategies in locating various medics across the village. In many cases, the Directors and Heads would evaluate the various doctors and their skills sets. Different doctors specializing in different fields would get sent to private calls of illnesses or health issues that targeted those specific skills. Being a doctor that had taken more of an interest in cardiovascular illnesses mainly concerning the lungs and vital organs, Sakura had been already assigned to cases within her month study which required her to commute distances as far as one hour through Kiri.

After several meetings which always had her exiting with at least two patients to see outside of the hospital, Sakura had learned quickly to expect a commute soon after whenever a general meeting was called.

Using all of her weight, the pink-haired doctor grasped the cold metal handle of the meeting room and hefted it open.

A rush of cold air burst through the room as Sakura inwardly sighed at the cool wind that greeted her-along with the twelve board members of the Hospital. Giving a slight bow towards the already seated members, the pink-haired doctor quietly took a seat closest to the entrance, not wanting to have to squish past everyone else already seated. Settling down into her seat, the medic inwardly groaned before rubbing her temples, knowing that this would be a long and tedious meeting.

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With a low and content sigh, the medic half-slinked, half-collapsed through her apartment doors after a graveyard shift. The meeting hadn't just been an assignment of cases, but also had covered areas such as stocks, general administration, and budgeting-three things that bored the petite doctor the most. That, on top of a graveyard shift and Sakura was thoroughly exhausted when she finally made it home.

Not bothering to shower at the moment, she grabbed a handful of power bars from the kitchen counter and made her way towards the bedroom, several cases tucked under one arm. She remembered her Kiri mentor had mentioned something about a military chief that needed attention or something like that. Sakura had been too distracted by the cat purring in her mentor's arms which she seems to always carry around…

Shaking her head to clear her thoughts, Sakura quickly scanned each document-blinking hard once in a while to keep herself awake.

'7 year old boy located near out-town with scar tissue in his lungs…'

"Poor boy…" Sakura tsked softly, understanding the pain he must be in.

'22 year old man with liver problems-occupation:student'

'58 year old man with lung disesase-occupation: Director of KMB'

'46 year old woman with heart pacemake-occupation-'

Frowning slightly before completing her precursory glance at her documents, Sakura flipped back to the previous folder and took another glance at it.

'58 year old…KMB…KMB…where had I heard that from?'

Squinting hard in thought the doctor tapped her ballpoint pen to her chin continuously. This was going to bother her incessantly until she figured out what it meant. Flipping through the following pages, the pink-haired doctor's frown deepened when realizing that the name of the patient had been withheld.

'At least now I know his rank' Sakura thought with a shrug.

Generally, all hospitals held the names of high-ranking people confidential even to the doctors until certain that they'd be treating that particular patient for fear of word spreading.

Humming a bit in anticipation, Sakura shrugged. She'd find out eventually what KMB stood for as soon as she arrived at the given address-which was tomorrow actually. The upside was that in-home patient appointments always meant a day off for the pink-haired doctor. Though the appointment time wasn't that spectacular: 6:30 AM.

'Jeez…what 58 year old man would get up at 6:30 AM?' Sakura thought grudgingly. But whatever, all Sakura had to do was diagnose the guy, give him some meds and send him on his merry way. Stretching over to shut off the bedside lamp,, the petite medic settled against her pillows before drifting off to sleep in less than a minute.

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"Otou-san"

Gracefully folding himself to the knees and bowing, Uchiha Itachi straightened and edged towards his father seated across the room from him. The elder Uchiha shifted slightly before nodding at his son in return.

"Itachi. How has training been?" His deep voice held a dominant tone of authority used on habit now though Itachi could pick up the slight undertone of affection in his father's voice. Lifting his shoulders subtly in answer, the younger Uchiha gathered his thoughts first.

His father already knew of his son's slight reluctance to be in training for the Navy Seals. Therefore, Itachi would always express even a hint of displeasure in training whenever given the opportunity from his father. But these were his father's expectations of him. And he had to fulfill them. With Sasuke already free from serving, Itachi had to ensure that his otouto would not be forced to end up in the same predicament that he was in at the moment. So just shrug and bear through it.

"It was fine."

Knowing that that was as much of a response that he would get from his son, Fugaku Uchiha nodded solemnly. Though his son was unhappy currently, the eldest Uchiha was certain that this was the best future for him. Itachi would be able to take over his position when the time was right. Fugaku just wanted the best for his son. And if Itachi followed this path, he would be guaranteed it.

"Good. This training is to build your rudimentary skills. So learn well and stay focused." Fugaku gruffed out, arms crossed over his puffed out chest.

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"Yes, Otou-san."

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Huffing in frustration, Sakura wandered down the same street for the fifth time.

"Ugh!" Finally voiced her displeasure, the pink-haired doctor stomped her foot childishly while hoisting her medical bag higher on her shoulder before taking another glance at the now-crumpled strip of paper that had the old man's address hastily scribbled on it.

"There is no 215!"

Unless she was blind, which she was sure she wasn't, 215 Tokei Street just wasn't here.

Checking her watch, Skura let out an anxious puff of breath.

6:26 A.M.

She had even given herself fifteen extra minutes to find this place!

Looking up and down the street, the frustrated medic located 210 Tokei Street. But it just stopped after that. Eyes scanning the early morning abandoned street, the doctor's emerald green eyes spotted a bright red mailbox.

'I've seen that mailbox before' Sakura recalled, having memorized it because of its stand-out color. Having an epiphany moment, the bright pink-haired doctor quickly approached the mailbox and merged left slightly towards one tall building. Craning her neck, Sakura spotted the jutting edge of a grayish stone building behind 210 Tokei.

Smiling in triumph, the petite medic briskly walked towards the building, realizing that the building was so large that it took up the address 211-14 Tokei Street.

"Greedy McFatass…" Sakura mumbled under her breath.

Rounding the corner, Sakura froze dead in her tracks.

It was this building.

The military base.

KMB

Konoha Military Base

Mentally slapping herself, Sakura berated herself for not noticing it sooner.

Of course.

She'd seen the KMB letters largely displayed at the front of the double metal gates when she'd seen Shisui.

Itachi.

Heart skipping a beat, Sakura immediately attempted to push down the rapidly increasing sense of hope that was starting to bubble into her chest.

'I could see him'

At the moment, the flustered doctor didn't bother tinkering with the details. But just the possibility of seeing him…

The man she loved.

Maybe.

Just maybe…

Lady Luck would grant her wish today.

"Are you here on official business?"

An authoritative and hard-steeled voice rudely snapped her away from her imaginative thoughts.

'Show some respect. I'm probably here to save you commander's ass' Feeling smug for mentally berating the man at the gates, Sakura gave herself an inner pat on the back before realizing that the man was still giving her a hard stare.

It was probably the pink hair.

Bitch.

"Yes, medical business" Handing him her official statement, Sakura smirked a bit, proud (though slightly surprised) that she didn't stammer-not even once!

Giving a superficial glance through the document's contents, the guard waved over another man before handing her back the statement.

"This is Sakura Haruno-san, the chief should be expecting her. Miss Haruno-san, Kataoka-san will show you in."

With a curt bow, the guard disappeared back into the small office outside and with a loud click, the heavy metal gate began to slowly open.

'Like it's about to swallow me up.' Sakura thought humorously.

Following the broad-shouldered man, the doctor unconsciously gripped her medical supplies bag harder upon noticing the numerous frequent stared shot in her direction.

"Just ignore them. It's been a while since these sad men have laid eyes on a woman."

The low muttering voice almost made her jump before she looked up at Kataoka-san and laughed once his words had fully processed through her brain.

At least he had a humor bone in him.

Unlike that other guard.

"Not even the medics stationed here?" Sakura asked curiously. Usually medics in military compounds were female, thought there were male counterparts doing the job too.

"Well, I believe our youngest nurse here is about forty years old with one mean uppercut if any men try any funny business…thought I'm sure they wouldn't with the glare she all gives them…" There was a hint of wistfulness in his tone.

Laughing again at his description, Sakura nodded.

"As it should be, these poor nurses shouldn't have to worry about getting their ass grabbed every time they treat someone!"

The pink-haired nurse felt sympathy, having experienced this more than a few times back in the hospitals filled with old deranged men with nothing to lose…and the occasional bachelor.

Having entered the main building, it seemed almost like a giant hideout. The interior walls and floors were all made of deep mahogany wood with numerous closed doors on either side. Much so like a maze. Sakura couldn't even remember the number of turns they had already taken. All she could catch were glimpses of windows as they briskly strode through the halls.

Finally after what seemed like an eternity, the fast-paced man came to an abrupt stop just before the rounded a corner. Turning towards Sakura, he inclined his head slightly.

"Please wait here while I inform the chief that you have arrived."

Smiling, Sakura nodded, watching Kataoka-san round the corner before turning to her right where a large window was located.

'At least it lets some light into this dreary place'

Peering out the window, Sakura was mildly surprised to find a fairly large garden instead of the expected training grounds. The garden was lush and green-it was everything Sakura loved actually. Bamboo shoots covering the perimeter, tall green grass draping the ground and tall thin trees here and there. There were even koi fish in the center of a pond.

'Itachi had mentioned once that he liked koi…'

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Having finally finished his short talk with his father, Itachi bowed a final time before exiting from the dimly lit room.

Though the young Uchiha didn't want to admit it, he knew he was starting to become distraught. Each day passing meant one more day close to completion of training. Then afterwards, he was sure that his father would enlist him. Though the idea had been nagging in the back of his mind, Itachi had always thought of dealing with it later. But later was now and he understood that he had to make a final decision.

It was true that his father had secured him a respectable position already which entailed a good pay. In his father's eyes, money and status was happiness. But Itachi had always known better-that these two don't always go hand in hand.

Suddenly his mind wandered to Sakura. Throughout all the letters they've sent, she always showed her support. And he just knew that whatever his decision, Sakura would be proud of him. With her in mind, Itachi finally-in the minute of contemplating outside his father's door-knew.

He chose his happiness.

Smiling slightly, Itachi let out a quiet huff of laughter. It was like he was free. He wasn't going to go down this path of violence and war anymore. And no matter what, he would protect Sasuke from this path with his entire being. Sakura was right. He only had one life to live and he was going to live it his way. Not his father's way or anybody else's.

Squaring away his shoulders, Itachi walked out of the short hallway, intending to locate Shisui to inform him on his newly made decision.

Just outside the short hall, Itachi nearly bumped into someone if it were not for his sharp reflexes.

"Ah, my apologies Uchiha-san."

"It's quite alright Kataoka-san"

Giving each other a short bow, Itachi departed in the opposite direction that Kataoka-san had come from.

'Some sort of official military business that never holds interest' And with that passing thought, the graceful Uchiha made his way to his cousin.

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Rounding the corner at the cue of the man's beckoning hands, the medic quietly thanked her escort before entering the room.

Seated in the far right corner nearest to an open window was an aging man with mid-length jet black hair though the occasional gray wisp was made apparent. Though having the signs of many years upon his face, the man was very broad-shouldered with a sturdy and muscular build, no doubt from all the constant activity his position entailed. His eyes were firmly set upon her, hands resting on either of his folded knees. Dressed down in a casual yukata, the man seemed to be in a day of relaxation.

Bowing low to the man in front of her, Sakura gave a professional nod.

"Haruno Sakura at your service sir."

Finally having seemed to deem her worthwhile and trustworthy, the man nodded and gestured from her to take a seat.

"Uchiha Fugaku. Chief Commander."

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Now usually, the words "chief" and "commander" would have normally struck the pink-haired doctor into intimidation. But right now there was only one thing on her mind

Uchiha.

He was Uchiha Fugaku.

A.k.a. Itachi and Sasuke's father.

'Oh boy…what a small…small world.' Sakura thought humorously.

In her few seconds of being frazzled, the petite doctor decided to not make her familiarity with Itachi and Sasuke known. She wanted the eldest Uchiha to respect her medical skills first and foremost before anything else. But somewhere in the back of her mind, she knew she was afraid this Uchiha would be quick to form negative judgments of her if he knew she was involved with one of his sons.

Setting down her supplies and rummaging through her bag, the pink-haired medic remained calm as they passed through some basic questions before starting the diagnosis.

About halfway through the appointment as Sakura was checking Uchiha Fugaku's back, she happened to glance out the open window.

"The garden outside is beautiful by the way Uchiha-san" Sakura hushed out, not wanting to disturb the calming aura set upon the room.

Clearing his throat as if almost having fallen asleep, the old Uchiha nodded with a huff of amusement.

I had it planted after incessant requests by my eldest son."

Mouth gaping open like a stunned fish, Sakura was glad that the man's back was facing her.

Quickly recovering and snapping her mouth shut with a 'click', Sakura cleared her throat.

"Oh, really? Did he plan the layout of the garden?"

Giving a curt nod, the Uchiha shifted slightly when a cold ointment was applied to his shoulders.

"I just gave him the funds to construct it-I'm horrible at these design things." The old Uchiha grumbled with a wave of his hand.

Laughing lightly, Sakura finished up the treatment before scribbling down a few prescriptions.

"Well it's a beautiful garden, truly."

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7/2/2011

Dear Itachi,

How are you? Haha, I know I ask you this every letter, but I hope you're still doing good. Summer here has been so hot and humid! I can't believe that you're almost done with training. I can't even begin to express how excited I am to see you. I feel like I'm a high school girl going out on her first date or something. I hope once your training ends that we'll be able to spend time together. I keep hoping that we'll be able to read together in the library or go on walks through the parks or just have lunch together. Oh which reminds me, Sasuke once told me that your favorite food was salmon and cold soba. I admit that I've been eating this combination for the past few weeks and it is such a delicious combination!

I hope your training is going well also and that you're healthy and injury-free. One time my friend got an ankle injury from soccer and it pulled him out of scouting season for his senior year because it took the injury a while to heal. But no worries, he works in these strategic puzzle solving type of company now which suits him much better in my opinion, haha.

The hospital in Kiri has been doing well as well. They run things a lot differently here than they do back at home. It's been nice though being able to get a new perspective on things and everyone's been very welcoming. As exciting and new these experiences are, I think I still love Konoha the most though. Being so far away from home and friends-the hospital even- has made me a bit homesick. But I know it'll all be worth it in the end! Seeing how I've only been gone for a month, I can't even begin to imagine how a year in training would've been like for you. But I know you're really strong and patient. Thanks for always being there for me Itachi. It's funny though now that I think about it. Starting this entire chain of letters in the beginning was to help comfort you instead of me-but I think it has gone the other way around now, haha. I find myself constantly thinking back to the time of the first couple months we started writing to each and thinking how it was such a long time until we would be able to meet. But now everything seems so close within reach that it's really starting to hit me. It's almost like seeing an old friend. I feel like I know you so much but don't in the sense of never having seen you. So with just a couple of months left, I hope you really take care of yourself and Shisui of course haha. Remember to always keep your dreams in mind and aspirations close. I know that whatever you choose to do in the future, that you'll be amazing and wonderful in-how could you not? You're Uchiha Itachi! So until next time my dear friend.

Love always,

Sakura Haruno

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"Well it's about damn time."

A wide goofy-toothed grin spread upon Shisui's face as he slapped his cousin's back several times, chuckling at Itachi's dead-pan stare.

"You expected this of me Shisui?" Raising a finely arched brow at his elder cousin, the graceful Uchiha pushed off from his leaning position against the best post to take a seat across from Shisui.

Shrugging a bit, Shisui just continued to smile.

"I knew you were always the 'obedient' one", the cousin air-quoted while ignoring the glare sent his way, "but something as big as your future was always in your hands. I knew you were never going to continue this. Fighting just isn't your style….flowers. and rainbows. And fluffy things….those are your style."

Laughing as he ducked from an outstretched hand attempting to swat him in the head, Shisui fell back onto his own bed and stared up at the ceiling.

"Just make sure to be at my initiation baby cousin." The elder Uchiha murmured softly after a while, eyes still glued to the ceiling with both hands tucked under his head.

Understandingly, the younger Uchiha nodded silently before mimicking his cousin's form.

In this sense, Itachi knew he should be grateful. His own father was the more forgiving and acceptable one out of the two young Uchiha's fathers. Though Itachi was expecting a lot of arguing, sighing, and lectures, he had a feeling deep inside that his father would accept whatever Itachi chose to do. But having Shisui's dad as an uncle meant many family meetings and gatherings to pin-point the man's disposition. And though he was a respectable and proper man, Itachi knew that his uncle had a no tolerance rule in his household. Disobeying Shisui's father was practically asking to be disowned by him. So until Itachi could find a way to help the cousin who had helped him so much in the past, all he could do was stand beside him and offer as much support he could.

"Of course I will Shisui."

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"Itachi!" A hushed voice hissed out, "get your ass back here this instant!" Voice dying out into a squeak of protest, Shisui hurriedly scrambled after his cousin that was already swiftly making his way through the darkened halls.

Smirking slightly in amusement, the younger Uchiha held back a chuckle as they continued to turn throughout the halls, intent on exiting the giant complex.

"Do you even have a plan?" Shisui whispered in a panicked manner behind Itachi. Upon receiving no response, Shisui became more rushed in his persuasion.

"We could get caught! Do you know how many security cameras are bugging this place? No? Well me neither! You know why? 'Cause they're so well hidden! That's why!" Shisui's voice was going borderline hysterical even as they advanced through the halls.

"Shisui."

"What!?" The older man cried out.

"…Hn."

"UGH!"

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The night remained quiet, calm and surprisingly quite cool. Having thrown a window open, Sakura relaxed and savored in the cool breeze that shifted through her damp hair, cooling her down from the hot shower she had just finished. Summer nights were the best to look out at Kiri. The lights of night markets could be seen from her high view as villagers bustled about-old couples taking a stroll, young teenage girls shopping for clothes, adults out for a drink. It was Friday and people were just beginning to relax for the weekend and buy up last minute items for the festival that was occurring the next night.

Sighing, Sakura took a sip from her cold sweet tea before crawling up onto the ledge to hang a leg out of the open window. Ears perking up at a small jingle, Sakura turned her head slightly to look at her door. There were sounds of small shuffles and a grunt before silence. Breath held within her lungs, Sakura waited for a few moments before finally a couple stern knocks broke the silence. Clambering down from her seated position by the open window, the pink-haired woman tiptoed to the door. She really wasn't expecting anyone, seeing as she didn't really have any friends from the hospital in Kiri... or in this town in general. Deigning it safe after a few haphazardly thought seconds, Sakura unlatched the locks and heaved open the door.

.

There

Standing in all his tall lean formed glory

Onyx eyes lit with bright joy and subdued happiness –

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"Sasuke!"

Grin spreading across his perfect features, said-man let out a bark of laughter before scooping up the medic into his arms and taking her for a spin around. Grasping the lapels of his dark cargo jacket, Sakura pulled away and smiled up at him, patting around as if to really believe that he was there standing in front of her. Unable to form coherent words in her mouth, Sakura just laughed while pulling her friend into her apartment.

"It'd be a good start to breath Sak. Or better yet, faint so I can perform some CPR lip-to-lip action on you." The flirtatious young Uchiha said thoughtfully after contemplating, wiggling his eyebrows.

Snapping out of her daze, Sakura scowled and took this opportunity to whack his head for good measure.

"Yea right you perv!" Muttering under her breath, Sakura grudgingly but happily at the same time, pulled Sasuke down towards the couch to sit.

"Why are you here?" Still full of wonderment and disbelief, the medic could only formulate that question to start off.

"Well my work gave me a week off and I thought I'd come down and visit."

"Four days travel just to see me? Awww…Sasuke-poo, you shouldn't have." Sakura said coyly with batting eyelashes.

Rolling his eyes, Sasuke leaned back into the cushions.

"Please Sak, I meant my brother and dad. You were an afterthought." Sasuke waved his hand around airily, laughing while ducking from Sakura's floundering arms.

"Kidding! Kidding!" Throwing up his arms in defeat, Sasuke propped his feet up onto the medic's lap.

"Of course I came here for you Sak." Smirking, he propped both hands behind his neck.

"Well look at you…getting all comfortable on my couch already." Sakura scoffed, shoving his heavy legs back onto the floor, though thoroughly pleased and amused at his presence.

"Yea…well, I figured I didn't want to spend my week off in Konoha. The place is too boring right now. All people ever want to do is eat and drink during this month of the year."

Laughing, Sakura just shrugged.

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After endless hours of catching up with one another, the two finally decided to call it a night. Seeing as how the apartment wasn't originally built for two, the pair of friends just deciding to sleep in the same bed-like the old times.

Climbing onto the bed, Sakura kicked the covers off down to their legs as Sasuke shifted around his pillow before clicking off the lamp. The two moved around slightly for a few minutes before settling into a peaceful quietness in the darkness, the only sound was the occasional sound of the bustling streets below them.

"So the Mid Summer Festival's tomorrow."

Though she couldn't see, she could feel Sasuke turn his head towards her with a finely arched eyebrow directed towards her.

"And?" His voice expectant of her to continue.

"Well, I wasn't actually going to go and all. But since you happened to stop in, I was wondering if you wanted to go?"

Groaning, Sakura could already feel the playful smirk working its way across his lips.

"Like a date?"

"No."

Having been shot down so bluntly, Sasuke just pouted for a few seconds. But upon realizing that it would provoke no answer from his friend, the young Uchiha just huffed out a breath of laughter.

"Fine, sure. We'll go-it should be fun. We can do those silly little games and I'll win one of those fish for you even." Sasuke teased.

Keeping her eyes closed, Sakura extended her arm and smacked him in the ribs, grinning when hearing his grunt of discomfort.

"Serves you right."

Laughing, Sakura turned onto her side and settled down into a peaceful sleep.

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The sound of a soft knocking on the door roused the sleepy medic as she furrowed her eyebrows, wondering if the sound was just in her head. But after a moment of silence, the knocking continued at the same volume level. Groaning slightly, the pink-haired doctor rolled out of bed before grabbing a sweater. Walking down the halls quickly, Sakura didn't even think of who it would be at this time of early morning.

Not bothering to ask who it was, the doctor heaved open the door, enjoying the nice rush of air that whistled past her face as she peered up.

"Itachi?"

Her voice, after seconds of staring, sounded dazed and airy-as if she had been given laughing gas or sleeping medicine.

But she was sure it was him. From the pictures that she's seen and the trademark onyx eyes and raven hair, it was definitely Uchiha Itachi. And he was standing on her doorstep casually.

"Hello Sakura." With a small smirk of amusement, the tall Uchiha leaned down and in one smooth movement, captured the pink-haired woman in a gentle kiss.

Standing frozen for a good ten seconds, Sakura began to slowly respond after gentle coaxing on Itachi's part. She couldn't believe this. She was kissing Uchiha Itachi. The love of her life. Muttering a small sound of relief, Sakura wrapped her arms around his neck before pulling him down closer to her, moving their lips together caressingly yet passionately at the same time. The need to be closer to him suddenly came upon her in a rush as she breathed a sharp gulp of air before pressing their forms closer together-so tight it felt almost constricting.

And apparently Itachi thought so too, for he let out a low chuckle before trying to speak in between kisses.

"Sakura…"

Ignoring him, Sakura continued to press their lips together, enjoying the feeling of his soft warm lips moving against hers.

"Sakura." He repeated once again.

"Sak!"

Eyes snapping open, Sakura looked up blearily with confused eyes. Why was she so cold all of a sudden? Looking up, she found herself wrapped around Uchiha Sasuke's still form as he tried prying her tightly wound arms from his upper arms. Absentmindedly, she could hear him laughing slightly while gently soothing her hands until they loosened enough.

Clearing her throat, Sakura looked around in still sort of a daze, heart having dropped to her toes when realizing it was all just a dream.

"Did you try to rape me?" Sakura croaked the first joke that popped into her brain.

Wincing at the barking laugh that the young Uchiha gave, Sakura groaned and shifted to bury her face into her pillow.

"Quite the opposite actually. You kissed me. In your sleep…kinky." Sasuke added.

"What!?" Sitting upright from her position, Sakura looked down at her friend's relaxed form still lying down on the bed beside her.

"Chill Sak, it was just on the cheek anyways but man, did you have to kiss so hard? It was like you were trying to give me a bruise or something I swear…" Rubbing his cheek thoughtfully, the raven-haired man rose from the bed before making his way to the bathroom located across the room.

"You should really practice your kissing skills though…"

Laughing, the witty man cowered into the bathroom, shutting the door just as a pillow was flung and hit the door with a dull 'thump'.

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Stumbling into the kitchen scratching her pink mess-of-a hair, Sakura sniffed before quickly starting up her morning cups of coffee. Popping a couple slices of bread into the toaster, she massaged her neck a few time, craning her neck around until catching sight of a stack of papers.

'Oh right, the mail.' Having forgotten to sift through her mail last night due to her unexpected house guest, she snatched up the small bundle before leaning against the counter and doing a quick run through.

'Yes.' Heart raising a bit in spirit when spotting a letter from a certain Uchiha, Sakura let out a wide toothy grin. It definitely helped her mood this morning with the disappointing wake-up call she was greeted with.

Not having wanted to tell Sasuke of her dream, she kept it to herself and tried to sound nonchalant when she had woken up by shooting out a joke. But inside, Sakura felt like a weight had been dropped onto her heart instead of lifted. He was just so real in her dreams-every touch so blissful. It was like those dreams she had of saving patients in the hospital only to wake up and remember that they had passed on the operating table.

Letting out a shaky breath to calm her nerves, the woman took a seat on one of the high stools surrounding the kitchen island before taking a look at the letter.

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7/16/12

Dear Sakura,

Your words of encouragement have always been the perfect guidance throughout my months in training. If not for your help, I do not think this year of training would have been possible. And now I must inform you of my recently-made decision. Though you had always encouraged me to do whatever I wished, be whomever I wanted, I had never thought it possible. It was right after a meeting with my father that realization dawned upon me and I made my decision right there. I will no longer stay in this occupation Sakura. I have realized through your help that life is, indeed, much too short to live the life of someone else. I do not know how my father will react or what the repercussions will entail, but I am willing to accept all of the consequences if it means I can live out my dreams. And all of this wouldn't have happened if it were not for you. You don't just save lives bordering on life or death, you saved mine from running down a path I never should have started in the beginning. So thank you Sakura. I have decided to pursue another occupation when my training has complete and I return to Konoha.

But until then, I am quite aware that the Mid-Summer Festival is rapidly approaching. Though my calculations might be off, I hope that this letter arrives to you before the festival. It was my hope that I would be able to meet you at the festival. And if I know you at all, you must be worrying that it is going out of my way to meet you. But not at all-you have made me quite daring now these days and I am thoroughly pleased by the new adventures I have taken because of it. If, however, this letter is received after the festival, then my sincerest apologies for not writing back sooner. The thought of meeting at the festival had been a last minute idea. But if the festival is approaching, I hope to meet you on Ikinawa Street near the flower vendor. I shall be wearing a black yukata with white leaves printed on top. I will be waiting regardless the situation and will try not to hold any expectations. But I know that I am holding onto a big part of hope that has risen inside my chest. So until then, take care Sakura.

With Love,

Itachi Uchiha

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"Oh..." With a muffled gasp, Sakura covered her mouth with her small hand as she reread the letter over and over, making sure that she had read correctly.

"Sak?" Appearing by the kitchen entrance, Sasuke continued running a towel through his messy raven locks before giving a weird stare at his pink-haired friend.

"If you keep doing that, you'll look like one of those large slabs of fish that Yamawa-san hangs up in his fish shop every morning."

Frowning when that didn't even hint out a response from her, the tall man scooted over to her and read the letter that she wordlessly raised so he could read. After a minute of quick scanning over the letter, the Uchiha man snorted

"Wow, he's gotten so cheesy and Romeo about his letters now-ow!" Wincing when a sharp pinch was given to his cheek, Sasuke scowled before ruffling Sakura's hair.

"Well, I guess you'll get to finally meet my brother…though I don't see what's so special about him." Sasuke grumbled under his breath before pouring himself a cup of coffee.

"I don't have anything to wear…" Sakura mumbled out dazedly, only snapping out of her reverie when Sasuke groaned in agitation.

"Oh kami Sak, we are not going through this whole 'outfit-choosing, shoe-matching, makeup-perfected ordeal. No." Sasuke quite stubbornly declared.

Narrowing her eyes at him, Sakura looked away with a huff.

"Fine, be that way. Then you can stay here all day while I go out looking for my outfit. Sounds good?"

Mouth opening to give a smart-ass retort, Sasuke was stopped as Sakura quickly raised her palm towards him, effectively killing the words that were about to make their way out of his mouth.

"Don't care." Smirking at Sasuke's even more bewildered face, Sakura 'hmphed' before hopping off her stool and heading towards the bedroom, humming down the halls.

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"For the hundredth time Sakura, you look fine." Sasuke groaned before flopping back down onto the couch. Thirty minutes had already passed, and that was just with Sakura trying to choose which sandal would fit her outfit better.

"Nobody can even see your shoes!"

It was true!

"Well this is really important Sasuke", a muffled voice came through the bedroom door, "it's not like I'm gonna, you know, meet the man of my dreams or anything!" The last of the sentence enunciated very clearly for emphasis.

"Sak, he'll love you no matter what." Sasuke said softer this time, having decided to lie back down onto the couch as he stared up at the ceiling.

And he really did believe it was true. His aniki would love her no matter what appearance she was. I mean, he'd seen he with bed hair, morning breath, and swollen eyes but he thought the pink-haired woman was still beautiful.

"You really think so?" A soft voice sounded above his head.

Shooting up, Sasuke gave a long stare up and down, smirking when a light red flush appeared on her cheeks.

"Yea." He whispered back.

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"Sasuke, are you sure he's coming?" Sakura tried to keep her worry at bay.

They had arrived within the first hour of the festival, making their way towards the flower vendor on the street Itachi had said it would be located on. But upon not finding a long raven-haired man there yet, the two decided to take a stroll up and down the street first-with Sasuke basically having to drag the petite doctor away from the flower vendor.

But it had already been four hours now with the pair having passed time by playing kid games, eating dinner and dessert, and taking a walk. And Sakura was sure she hadn't missed him since she had forced Sasuke to stay well within sight of the flower stand.

"He'll be here." And even that sounded like a lie to his own ears.

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But with the festival almost coming to a close, Sakura was almost convinced now that he wasn't going to come. Wrapping an arm around her shoulders, Sasuke tried to comfort the woman.

"He probably just got caught up back at the base you know?"

Sakura nodded.

"No, no. I completely understand. I mean, he would've had to sneak out of the base in order to get here so it's really okay if he couldn't make. Two more months. I'll keep waiting for that." Looking up at Sasuke, she gave him a brilliant smile before letting Sasuke start to steer her away.

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He was extremely late much to his irritation. It had taken a while to get past the guards this time since they were on heavy guard now to watch out from any drunken villagers from the festival who decide to wander towards the complex.

Keeping his strides long and paced, the Uchiha let out a small smile and quickened his pace when turning onto the street. Though the festival was supposed to start coming to an end, the long street was still heavily packed with villagers in colorful kimonos, couples strolling down together as kids ran around their feet holding bags of popcorn, fish, and dango.

Heart beating just a bit faster, Itachi made his way down the street swiftly, eyes lighting upon the colorful flowers surrounding the vendor. Arriving at the cart, Itachi looked around, trying to spot a head of pink-hair. Buying a stem of dandelions, Itachi calmed himself before scanning the crowd, not wanting to admit that his hopes were sinking lower and lower.

Maybe the letter hadn't gotten to her yet. Maybe it was stuck at the post office right now and Sakura wouldn't get his letter until tomorrow.

So many maybes.

Only able to blame himself for raised hopes and late ideas, Itachi let out a small sigh before heading back down the street.

Halfway through his slow journey down the street, Itachi caught a flash of bright color in the corner of his eye.

Looking towards the left, he could make out a small spot of pink towards the end of the street bobbing up a down.

Sakura

The thought echoed through his mind.

Trying to make his way through the crowd, Itachi was hindered in his progress by the many kids and adults bunching around him.

With patience, the elder Uchiha shuffled through until within twenty feet of her.

"Sakura!" He called out to her.

With bated breath, Itachi saw her ears perk up before slowly turning as if not quite believing what she heard.

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A/N: Hii! haha, sooo sorry to leave it on a cliffhanger...I swear it wasn't going to be like that at first but then i thought it would fit the story better! I'm in such a rush to get this chapter out so i haven't really looked it over yet. So i'm so sorry for any grammatical errors and I promise i'll come back and spell-check through once I get back! Thank you again to everybody who keeps up with my story and for all the support you guys have given me! So please leave a comment on what you guys think! Thank you again!

Love,

chicken 3