Archive of Our Own

“ Bonds”

Sakura eyes stared up at the gates of Konoha, her hands fidgeting at her sides as nervousness overwhelmed her. She was chosen by her uncle Rasa, the Kazekage, who had chosen her to be the Suna delegate for Konoha to improve relations and establish trade between the two nations. The agreement was that she would be swapped with another Konoha ninja so that it was fair. Her uncle had expressed shock when the Hokage nominated a Nara clan member to go to Suna, but quickly agreed. 

She took a shaky breath and smoothed out her clothes and her long pink hair, her steps slow as she crossed the threshold into the village. Her green eyes widened in awe, Konoha was bigger than her own. More vibrant, full of life, and beautiful. The children freely run around with no worries of the dangers that her homeland possessed such as sand wyrms, scorpions, and the like. The massive mountain of three heads was an impressive backdrop for the powerful nation. She checked in and the gatekeepers asked her to wait for her assigned tour guide.

She took a seat on a bench and watched the city, a bout of nervousness creeping into her. She looked at the different attire the shinobi wore and briefly felt out of place and overdressed. She should probably buy some new attire since she is now a Konoha shinobi. Her uncle made sure she could live very comfortably for her sacrifice of leaving. She pulled out a clear small box containing a sand art of a cherry blossom tree her cousin Gaara gave her when she left.

He had promised her with a small timid smile that he would continue to try and make friends all the while keeping himself safe. Temari also gave her word to shield him. Her older cousin’s promise made her feel even more at ease to leave. 

“Hiya! Sorry I am late! I got lost on the path of…,” the voice froze when her gaze lifted to raven black eyes, hidden by orange lensed goggles, his black hair spiked about in an unruly manner, his face unblemished and almost angelic with a boyish charm. 

He was the first to recover from their staring contest.

“H-Hi. I am Obito. Obito Uchiha. Old man Hokage asked me to be your guide for a special mission.”

“I am Sakura. Sakura Haruno.”

“Sakura huh? Your name suits you. You are as pretty as one,” he crossed his head behind his head with a grin, none the wiser to her flushed cheeks. His actions were not something she was used to. When she was growing up she was looked down on for her looks, only finding comfort in the friendship with her cousin Gaara who was treated poorly as well. She had never received such a warm, welcoming, and truthful compliment before outside of family. She felt her heart pound against her ribcage. 

He grabbed her hand pulling her up.

“You will love it here Sakura! Come on! Let me show you around,” he grinned, pulling her along. Sakura looked down at their hands and her cheeks reddened more. He kept her hand in his own as he pointed out every building and gave a story behind each landmark. They came to a stop at a sweetshop and he looked at her.

“Have you ever had Dango?”

“No, I can’t say I have.”

“Oh then you are in for a treat! My little brother Shisui loves dango and so does his friend Itachi! Hopefully they haven’t wiped them out yet,” he laughed and walked inside. He returned shortly after handing her one. 

Sakura timidly took a bite of the sweet and her green eyes sparkled at the taste causing Obito to chuckle.

“My little brother’s eyes shined just like yours the first time he tried one.”

“Really?”

“Sorry I don’t mean to compare you to a boy or whatever. I am just saying the happiness in your eyes is contagious like his.”

“Oh…”

“Are you a genin? A chunin?”

“A chunin… In Suna we are taught when we are able to walk. Especially if you are part of the Kazekage’s family.”

She turned her gaze away, and Obito felt a sinking in his gut. Something about what she said made him feel as if there was a dark cloud over them and raining on only her.

“Well maybe you will be on a team with me or someone my team is close with! You will make so many friends that whatever you went through will become nothing more than a memory,” he placed a hand on her shoulder. Her eyes met his again.

“I hope so too Obito.”

He gave her a small smile, one that she awkwardly returned. 

“You know what. I’ll talk to Minato-sensei! I am sure he’ll take you in as a student and I am sure Rin would love the company of a girl!”

“You… You like this Rin huh?”

“W-What gave you that idea?!”

“Your stutter for one thing. Two, your cheeks are so red that my shirt looks dull in comparison,” she giggled at the healthy blush that appeared on his cheeks darkening.

“I-I’m not blushing.”

“De…”

“Don’t say it!”

“Say what?”

“I know what you were about to say! So don’t say it!”

“Say what?”

“That denial is not just a river in Suna.”

“I didn’t have to. You just did,” Sakura grinned while Obito wished the ground would swallow him whole. 

They finished their snack and continued walking through the village. 

“So… What’s Suna like? Do you guys have anything like what Konoha has?”

“Suna… Suna is a harsh place. There really isn’t an irrigation system. So, growing our own food is very hard. We have limited trade, so we do not get many sweets. We don’t have a creepy mountain with a bunch of heads on it. There’s um… A lot of sand.”

“Sounds like it’s rough to live there.”

“It is. The days are hot, the nights cold. Danger lurks everywhere.”

“I see…”

OBITO!!!!

They turned their attention to the approaching brunette. She was cute, with her doe-like brown eyes, big bright smile, and the purple markings on her face. She was waving happily as she ran up to them. 

“H-Hi Rin.”

“Is this the one who swapped with Shikaku?”

“It is. Rin, this is Sakura. Sakura, this is Rin.”

“Hello Sakura. Nice to meet you,” Rin smiled, holding out her hand. 

Sakura looked at her hand and then toward Obito who gave her a smile before she slowly took it.

“Hello Rin. It’s nice to meet you too.”

“Hopefully you will be on our team or someone we are close with.” 

“Sakura is a chunin already Rin. Like Kakashi.”

“Oohh…,” the way the young girl before drawled that out she could sense that Rin did not reciprocate the feelings that Obito had for her. The young man that had been her guide through Konoha had been so sweet and kind. She could not fathom why Rin did not notice that he was a treasure to be cherished.

Rin eyed Sakura, she was beautiful with her pink hair, bright green eyes, her skin flawless and pale like a porcelain doll. She was the definition of beauty and a delicateness that would no doubt attract boys to her. Rin felt a pang of jealousy creep into her that Sakura would be able to gain Kakashi’s attention like she seemed to grab Obito’s. The young girl’s timid smile was completely disarming and screamed innocence even though there was darkness hidden deep within…

Sakura looked around the apartment that Konoha provided her with a sigh. Obito and Rin were nice enough and wanted to stay to help her settle in, but she politely declined. Telling them that while she appreciated it, she wanted to be alone for a bit. This new home of hers was more spacious than the one she had back in Suna. She casually put away all of her stuff and set the sand rose on her windowsill.  She flopped onto her bed, placing her arms behind her head, and stared at the ceiling. She hoped she would like it in Konoha, she felt her mind drift to her meeting of Obito…

He was so kind to her and was so full of positive energy that it was contagious. His smile was as bright as the sun, enveloping her with a warmth she had never felt in her home village. Rin was even nice to an extent, the jealousy that rolled off of the brunette had left much to desire in the way of friendship, but figured once she realized Sakura was not a threat that they would be on better terms…

Obito was right, the Third Hokage had placed her with him, Rin, another young boy , and his sensei Minato. The Bell Test was hilarious, the three’s teamwork was way off until Sakura suggested a plan of action that made getting the bells an easy feat. Sure, using Rin as bait would seem harsh but given her obvious obsession with Kakashi as she had learned his name before the task to get the bell,  then that could be used to their advantage. 

They had passed and Kakashi congratulated her on her plan. The frown on Rin’s face appeared and Sakura felt herself wanting to face palm. Obito, however, cleared any animosity by proclaiming that it was easy because Sakura taught them how to rely on each other instead of their individual abilities. They all had equal parts to play, Kakashi looked unimpressed and dare she say a bit arrogant. 

This air of superiority led Obito to become angered and a fight between them ensued. It took her and Rin to keep them separated, both girls sharing a nervous laugh. Maybe her and Rin would get along just fine. She found she was hanging out with Obito everyday and they even trained together. Soon Obito and Rin had caught up to her in rank, but Kakashi refused to wait becoming a Jonin. Obito had growled at Kakashi seeing Rin gush over him and proclaimed that no matter how far ahead he got that he would one day be equal to Kakashi. Running off without looking back…

Sakura gave a quick congratulations to her teammate who gave her a nod and pointed his thumb behind him. 

“Check on him will you? I am…”

“Say no more Kakashi. I’ve got it,” she interrupted and went after the young Uchiha. Kakashi watching her go…

She slid onto the bench next to Obito.

“I might as well be invisible to Rin… How can I be seen when he keeps getting ahead?”

“Maybe stop trying to one up Kakashi and just be you. If she can’t see you when you are just being you then you should move on and find someone who does.”

“I am an orphan Sakura. Even my own clan hates me.”

“Okay. I have a cousin who fights for his life everyday. My home is frightened of him and sends assassins after him all the time. Even his own family is scared of him and have tried to kill him too. I was his only friend and his dad sent me off. I worry about him every single day. I get stronger not only to protect him but because I have to be strong for me too. My parents died when I was still small. My uncle was my guardian. You are not alone Obito. There are others walking the same path as you. Different reasons sure, but it’s still the same road. Don’t forget you have your little brother too.”

“Sakura… Thank you,” he whispered, looking down at his hands.

Sakura’s words echoed in his head and for the first time in a long time he didn’t feel alone.

“You are right. There are many people walking the same path of loneliness as me and my little brother. I have to stop wanting to catch up and I have to start wanting to get stronger for my little brother.”

“You are on the right track! You will get stronger in no time and your little brother will have the best protector for him. Besides, I can help you get Rin to notice you. If my schemes don’t work then she’s just blind.”

“You would help me with Rin?”

“Sure. What are friends for?”

“Thank you,” Obito yelled and hugged her tightly, missing Sakura’s squeak of surprise and her reddened cheeks…

Obito’s little brother was a riot and was the very definition of mischief. He had tortured his brother more than her cousins had ever teased her. Shisui was definitely a handful, but his laughter was contagious and his sparkling ink black eyes gave him a cuteness that she was absolutely sure got the boy anything he ever wanted.

“I want to sit next to Sakura,” Shisui pouted with a frown and glared at his older brother.

“Shisui… Next time. Sakura and I have a mission to talk about.”

“Is she your girlfriend?”

“What?! N-No!”

“Then I can sit in between you two,” Shisui countered and before Obito could protest, his brother had wiggled his way between him. Sakura laughed at the cuteness of the two, Obito’s grumble of frustration and Shisui’s wide triumphant grin as he clung to her.

“Don’t worry Sakura. If my big brother won’t marry you I will,” the confession of Obito’s little brother left him sputtering and Sakura with pink cheeks and she released a light laugh…

Sakura slapped a hand on her forehead when Obito choked on his words and never gave Rin the bouquet. He found out from some of the men girls hanging around the brunette that she didn’t like roses and dragged her off. 

“Yeah well! You don’t deserve my brother, you bunch of harpies,” Shisui yelled at them and when the mean girls looked back, the young boy stuck his tongue out at them before running to hug his brother who smiled and ruffled his hair…

The next plan was he was going to share his lunch with her and just to make sure they would, Sakura stole Rin’s lunch feeding it to Kakashi’s hounds. That ended up with Rin in the hospital over an allergic reaction to pepper.
“She is allergic to pepper? Glad she won’t have to cook for me.”

“Kakashi! That’s not nice!”

“Sakura… Pepper is essential in flavoring food.”

“There are alternatives.”

“She better learn them quickly. Another failed attempt at your Operation: ObiRin.”

“Don’t remind me,” she groaned, putting her head in her hands. 

Somehow, she had gotten Kakashi in on her operation to help Obito win the girl of his dreams. Or so she thought… Kakashi had somehow bumped into her making her fall instead of Rin. Obito panicked, running to her side in an instant, and checked her over. The minute he saw her bloody hand he picked her up bridal style and took her to the doctor. He ignored all of her protests to go back to Rin. 

“Your health is more important. Hush now,” he commanded as he kept walking. She looked back at Kakashi who gave her a shrug and walked off with his hands behind his head ignoring Rin. If Sakura hadn’t known any better then she would assume that he did it on purpose…

Kakashi rounded the corner.

“Pay up Shisui. I sabotaged the plan like you asked me to do. You should be more careful that pepper stunt of yours almost killed Rin,” he suggested to the youngster as he counted the ryo handed to him.

“It wasn’t intentional, the top came off.”

“Why do you want to ruin your brother’s chances with Rin?”

“Because Sakura is better for him!”

“Okay… How so?”

“Obito never brought Rin to our house… He brought Sakura though! So, that must mean he likes her more.”

“Obviously not, if he is still chasing after Rin.”

“He is just blind right now! I will make him see,” Shisui frowned, his eyes shining with determination. 

“All right… Call me crazy, but I believe you kiddo. I will help as much as I can.”

“Thanks Kashi!”

“It’s Kakashi.”

“Kashi for short.”

“No just Kakashi.”

“Kashi,” Shisui yelled at him defiantly, Kakashi sighed in defeat while the little boy cheered in victory…

Any other plans Sakura had to help Obito would have to wait… The Third War had begun and Team Minato had been thrown into it for a mission. Sakura was nervous packing up to head out to war in the morning. She laid down on her bed and prayed with tears brimming her eyes that everything would be okay. They would complete their mission successfully and return to Konoha in one piece. She curled up into a ball, hugging herself. She tried to steel herself for what was to be expected for them to see and that she would remain strong. She felt her eyes closed as her vision blurred as she fell into a restless slumber.

She had to force herself up the next morning, washing her face and changing into her shinobi clothing. She slipped on her shoes and put her pack on her hip. She looked around once more around her apartment before closing and locking the door behind her. Once she was out on the village streets, she ran to meet her team at the gates…

Rin and Obito were in critical condition… She sat with Shisui next to Obito’s bed, and the little boy crawled onto Sakura’s lap. His eyes filled with worry and tears, she wrapped her arms around him and gently rocked the boy.

“He’ll be fine, Shisui. You’ll see. He will be training, arguing with Kakashi, and taking care of you in no time.”

“I hope so Sakura,” Shisui sniffled, his eyes not once leaving his brother’s form.

The sound of clicking heels and the door opening, drew her green eyes to a busty blonde woman. She was a beautiful woman who held an air of confidence. 

“You two outside. I need to examine him.”

“Come on Shisui. Let’s get you something to eat,” Sakura whispered, standing up when the little boy climbed down and grabbed his hand. She gave the woman a glance as they walked out. The power radiating off of her enthralled Sakura…

She and Shisui sat in the cafeteria moving their food around with a fork, both not really speaking and barely eating. 

“He will be alright.”

“He will.”

“You promise?”

“I promise Shisui.”

“He gave his eye to Kakashi…”

“He did.”

“The clan is mad about it.”

“Why?”

“They said he should have given it to me… What do they mean by that? I don’t think anyone should have it! It’s his,” the frustration in the young boy was a surprise and it hurt her heart.

Her green eyes looked down at her plate, her lips tilting downward into a frown. 

“You are right… It’s his and he chose Kakashi to have one of his eyes… I know it’s not ideal that Kakashi was the one to receive it, but we have to respect Obito’s decision on it. No matter what others say about it. Kakashi lost an eye protecting us… When Obito thought he was dying… He gave it to him.”

Shisui looked at Sakura, his eyes soaking in the young lady in front of him. She looked so lost, almost broken. Like broken pieces had been taped together in an attempt for her to keep her sanity. The darkness seeping through like tentacles trying to bury themselves inside her. She was pushing it all to the side to have some semblance of who she once was. Her eyes while they still shined so brightly were duller than they used to be. The war was much more than what he and his best friend Itachi had been exposed to. Only she knew the hell in which she was enduring for the sake of those she cared for… 

Tsunade was able to restore Obito’s missing eye. Mainly to stop the bickering that had erupted when the Uchiha clan found out that Kakashi had his eye and that Obito refused to take it back. His rehabilitation was slow going and at times he was quick to anger, Sakura could feel his soul becoming darker and darker. Obito and Shisui were also keeping their distance from her and Kakashi. She wanted to believe it was some kind of family bonding thing, but one look into their dull black eyes had sent her spiraling into an unknown abyss…

Kakashi had promised her and Rin that he would get to the bottom of it, but Sakura found herself doubting he would find out anything, much less the truth. If it had to do with the clan like Minato had said then a storm was brewing and she feared the village would not be prepared for it. There was a shadow that was looming over the once peaceful village that was almost stifling. The tension was so thick that the strongest weapons would break from it. Sakura could feel the glances the civilians gave Shisui and Obito. Glances of fear. Glances of pity. Glances of hatred…

She waited for Obito outside of the Uchiha clan’s gates. She ignored the glares she received from the guards and gave them a soft smile despite their obvious disdain for her. Shisui was the first to acknowledge her, running to her, and throwing her arms around her middle. Her laughter filled the air, green eyes softening with fondness for the young boy, and returned the embrace. Obito watched them for a moment, a smile tugging at the corners of his lips. His breath freezing in his lungs when her attention came upon him. 

He was no fool, he knew how beautiful Sakura was. Yet as she grew, that beauty became more ethereal. He found himself wanting to protect her. Even deeper in himself… He wanted her to only look at him like she was now. Just him and Shisui… It was selfish… He knew, but he couldn’t help it and he couldn’t stop the feeling that he deserved to have the kindness that she so freely gave… He wanted the love she had from that golden heart of hers… At that thought, he felt his cheeks grow hot and he turned his head away ignoring her cute look of confusion…

Obito dodged Kakashi’s strike phasing through him and laughed. 

“I felt all tingly from the electricity off of that.”

“You sure are getting cocky since you learned that new ability of yours.”

“Not cocky, just happy.”

“Happy?”

“Yes. Now I can protect those I love.”

“Is Minato-sensei right?”

“Right about what?”

“That your clan is…”

“Don’t worry about it.”

“Obito…”

“Drop it Bakashi!”

“I would if you hadn’t made Sakura and Rin so worried about you! I am worried too, you know?”

“Don’t worry about it… They… They won’t.”

“They won’t? What do you mean by that?”

“Kakashi leave it. Are we still sparring or not?”

“Fine… But promise me… If it gets too much… You will come find me.”

“Why?”

“Because I don’t want to lose anyone for no reason…”

“Kakashi… Fine I promise,” Obito gave a grin after his words and the two continued their spar…

Kakashi and himself watched the girls spar sitting under a cherry blossom tree. Shisui had joined them after his spar with Itachi and laid his head on his brother’s leg taking a nap. Once Sakura had achieved victory she walked to the two with a smile. 

“Poor guy is so sleepy here lately.”

“Y-Yeah… He’s barely slept a couple of times.”

“Anything I can help with? Tsunade taught me a lot about herbs.”

“You being here for him is enough, but thank you Sakura.”

“Sure… What about you Obito? How are you fairing?”

“I… I am okay Sakura. No need to worry about me.”

“Maybe to you I shouldn’t… But I will always worry about you, Obito. You were my first ever friend when I came to Konoha.”

Obito’s eyes softened greatly from her words. They were something he never really heard from his peers. Most like the civilians feared his family and he was guilty by association and the blood that ran through his veins. 

“I am glad I can be a friend to you.”

“I feel the same. I am glad I can be a friend to you.”

“I appreciate that beyond words.”

“Sakura. You should come for dinner,” their attention was brought to Shisui who was rubbing his eyes.

“Shi… The clan will not let her in… You know that.”

“Use your ability and sneak her in, duh. I thought older brothers were supposed to be smarter than their siblings?”

“Brat…”

“I think I am adorable…”

“You are.”

“See! Sakura agrees!”

“Sakura… We can’t have him acting this way.”

“But he is adorable…”

“You two act like you are his mom and dad,” Kakashi choked out, causing Sakura and Obito to blush. 

Shisui turned to Kakashi with a wide grin.

“True, but they are good at it!”

“They are very good at it,” Rin chimed in with a smile.

“Glad we are all on the same page.”

“S-Shi, we are all not on the same page.”

“Oh come on Obito!”

“Don’t come on me.”

“Don’t you like Sakura?”

“What? How did this conversation change to that?”

“Answer my question!”

“I would if it made sense!”

“It does make sense! I asked you, don’t you like Sakura? Now answer me!”

“I know what you asked! It doesn’t make sense!”

“Does!”

“Does not!”

“It does!”

“It doesn’t!”

“Does!”

The three with the two arguing brothers watched the spectacle with amusement, their heads moving between the two. Obito had bent down to where he was face to face with his little brother as they yelled at each other. 

“Why does this matter to you so much?!”

“Because it does,” Shisui sniffled and Obito’s eyes widened in horror.

“Wait! Nononono! Don’t cry!”

“Then answer my question.”

“Yes I like Sakura. Not sure why you wanted me to admit to something so obvious. She’s my friend,” Obito grumbled out. 

Shisui’s eyes instantly dried up as his lips pulled into a feral grin.

“Then you will sneak her into the compound for dinner with us right?”

“You little…”

“How about you two come to my home? That way your clan can’t get mad and you two do not get in trouble.”

“Can we Obito?! Please…”

“Sure half pint. That would be more ideal. Thank you Sakura.”

“Anytime Obito.”

It was that smile of hers that had been a steady rock through his long months of recovery. 

“That sounds like a real treat.”

“You are welcome to join us Rin, Kakashi,” once the words left her mouth Shisui sent a glare at the scarecrow. A clear warning of don’t you dare.

“Thank you for the invitation Sakura, but I have things to do. Minato has me on a special assignment.”

“I wish I could as well, but my clan has a meeting.”

“Understandable. Maybe you two can join us next time.”

“Will do Sakura,” Kakashi gave a closed eyed grin…

 Sakura was moving around her apartment like a chicken with its head cut off. She was tidying up while she cooked. Obito and Shisui would be at her home any minute and she had yet to have the food ready. She stumbled as she scrambled to clean and set the table for their dinner. She was not sure why she was a bundle of nerves… Obito had been to her home multiple times to walk with her to the training fields or to the village gates when they had a mission. It’s not like he had not seen her home in disarray before. 

Shisui had even seen her place in a mess a time or two when he visited her to ask her a question or wanted to just see her. The young boy was attached to her, she knew that, but it was not something that caused her alarm since his clan was so mistreated that it made sense to her that he sunk his claws into any ounce of kindness and friendship given to him. Lately though the young Uchiha had been absent, favoring hanging out with Itachi over hanging out with her, Obito, and their teammates. She had spotted him talking with Kakashi several times but always assumed it was due to Shisui wanting to improve his skills more than a bond the two may have. 

A knock on the door made her jump in alarm, her fingers frantically swept through her hair to make herself look presentable before opening the door and letting the Uchiha brothers inside.

“Dinner isn’t ready just yet.”

“That’s okay Sakura. Obito made his famous onigiri!”

“He did, did he?”

“Yeah! It’s the best! Don’t tell Mikoto though, she gets moody when someone else cooks better than her.”

“Understandable. I don’t know a woman alive that likes to hear someone cooks better than her.”

“True. So… What is for dinner?”

“Shrimp Tempura.”

“Your shrimp tempura or…”

“Mine Obito.”

“Thank Kami. You are in for a treat Shi. Sakura makes the best tempura.”

“I do not.”

“You do and no arguing.” 

Shisui laughed when Sakura stuck her tongue out at Obito when he turned his back. 

“Shrimp tempura sounds great, Sakura,” Shisui’s cheeks reddened when Sakura ruffled his hair. 

“You blush when she ruffles your hair but when I do it I get glared at and mean mugged…”

“That’s because she’s pretty and you aren’t.”

“Why you…”

“I better check on dinner,” Sakura interrupted, walking between the brothers and to the kitchen.

Obito gave an awkward smile to Sakura before glaring at his brother.

“You turned your asshole dial to the max today haven’t you.”

“You call it being an ass, but I am nine Obi. It’s adorable to girls and it keeps your foot in the door.”

“My foot in the door for what?”

“Seriously bro?! You are not that dense and I know it.”

“Shi… Are you trying to set us up?”

“Duh. Now you get it.”

“She’s my friend and Rin…”

“Rin rejected you, remember? Why should you wait for a fairytale? Fairytales aren’t real bro.”

“I… I know. It’s just you can’t just throw me into this when I haven’t gotten over Rin and that’s not fair to Sakura.”

“Dinner’s ready,” Sakura came in, setting the food down on the table and Obito eyed his brother putting his finger to his lips.

“It smells great Sakura!”

“Thank you Shisui.”

“For the record, Rin is okay but I don’t like her with you and I never will,” Shisui whispered to his brother before walking over to sit beside Sakura... 

They ate in silence and Sakura almost fidgeted in her seat. She was not used to this type of meal.

“I heard you made Jonin Shisui.”

“I did! Obito promised that we could go to the Founders Festival to celebrate this weekend! They have a waterpark this time like Kiri does.”

“That sounds like fun.”

“You should join us, Sakura.” 

“I don’t want to intrude…”

“Tell her Obito that she can come.”

“I-If she wants to join us then I don’t mind,” Obito didn’t look up and just scooted his food with his chopsticks…

Shisui was watching a movie while Obito and Sakura cleaned the kitchen.

“I am sorry about Shi.”

“Why?”

“He’s been acting out a lot lately…”

“Obito… Shisui is a young boy… Is there something that is bothering him?”

“The clan is being a pain in the ass, but nothing too unusual Sakura. But maybe you are right and he is just dealing with it the best way he knows how.”

“Obito… Don’t try to handle it on your own… If you feel like you are about to break, reach out to me and your friends, We will come running.”

“Sakura… Thank you. I definitely will.”

“That reminds me, I think I came up with something to help with Ri…”

“No, it’s okay Sakura. She rejected me… You know that. I think I am just going to move on and not wait around for something that wasn’t meant to be.”

“Are you sure?”

“Yes. I am sure.”

“Thanks for helping me clean up,” Sakura changed the subject grabbing onto the plate Obito just washed. The tips of her fingers brushing his, he pulled away quickly and cleared his throat.

“No problem. It’s getting late and Shi has a mission tomorrow.” 

“Let me wrap up the dessert for you two to take home.”

“You don’t have to.”

“Nonsense Obito. I made it for you two.”

Obito walked into the living room and felt his lips twitch. Shisui was curled up and wrapped in Sakura’s couch throw, fast asleep. 

“Oh… He fell asleep. So cute. Go ahead and take the blanket with you. You can always give it back later.”

“Thanks,” Obito responded, gently lifting his brother into his arms, adjusting him so he had a free hand to grab the dessert from Sakura. Shisui rubbed his face into his brother’s shoulder before relaxing. Sakura’s heart melted at the sight, that small gesture spoke volumes of the bond the two brother’s held with each other. Of the safety the young boy felt within his older brother’s embrace. Sakura whispered a good bye to them before closing her door. Her back pushed against the door and the back of her head rubbed against the wood of it as her face tilted upward. Her heart was filled with so much warmth, her thoughts a whirlwind of the feelings that filled her entire being. When she first came to Konoha, Obito was such a great friend. He went out of his way to make her feel like she belonged and Shisui had been such a sweet addition to that friendship…

Now though… Her thoughts had taken a slightly different turn… She could feel Obito everywhere sometimes. Smell his scent of amber, pine, and a spring like breeze. His smile and eyes overpowered her in more ways than his Sharingan ever could. She should be terrified by this new plethora of emotions… They were foreign to her to an extent. Sure she had crushes before, but this… This felt like more. Like fate had turned the tide and set in motion the desire to love him and dream of him loving her like he loved… No loves Rin. At the thought of his love for Rin, she choked up. Was she cursed? What did she do to fall in love with someone who loved someone else? Would he get over Rin? More importantly… Would he ever look at her like that? As more than a friend? The negative part of herself had quickly shut down her hopes, while her positive side tried to scream over it. She pushed off the door with a sigh… 

It had been days since she had seen the two brothers… She knew Shisui had a mission, but Obito had been avoiding them. Well maybe that was an exaggeration, his clan after all had been keeping him busy. That’s what she told herself anyway, that way she didn’t think he was avoiding her. 

“Earth to Saku…” Her green eyes rose to see Kakashi hovering over her, his grin slightly obscured by his masked face.

“Seriously Kashi? A mask in the summertime? How have you not suffered a heat stroke?”

“You know… I don’t know. Guess I just don’t have the ability to have a heat stroke.”

“Hahaha… You do have good genetics though. Can’t lie about that. Have you seen Obito?”

“I thought I saw him getting Shisui some dango at the food stalls not long ago, but I couldn’t say for sure.”

“I feel like he’s avoiding me…”

“Nonsense. He couldn’t even if he tried. Especially with you in that swimsuit.”

“Hentai…”

“How am I a hentai when you are wearing a swimsuit in public?”

“Good point.”

“I know.”

“Ass.”

“Worrywort.”

“I am not…”

“If you want to find them. I will help you look.”

“Wouldn’t that interfere with your reading time?”

“It does, but I can make an exception for my friends.”

“Did you…”

“Yeah and what of it?”

“Nothing bad… I am just happy you see us as your friends is all.”

“Don’t let it go to your head,” Kakashi gave her another grin and started walking, searching the crowds of people for Obito and Shisui. Sakura hot on his heels.

Obito watched his brother splash around in the water with Itachi, how he managed to sneak the young heir away from his uptight parents will be a mystery to him, but he knew no one can resist that sweet and innocent grin of his little brother’s. It would disarm you in seconds and you could not see the holy terror behind that toothy grin and sparkling mischievous innocent filled eyes. Itachi had been a welcomed distraction from the questions Shisui hounded him about Sakura. His brother adored her so much, an attachment that should be terrifying, but seeing how Sakura treats his brother made him smile more than alarmed him. 

That made him panic slightly because he could now see Sakura differently than he did before. She was much more than a friend with a pretty kind smile and intoxicating green eyes that bore through you and saw straight through to your soul. He would be a liar if he said he had not been captivated by her and ready to spill his guts with one look of concern on her face. She had this uncanny ability to just look at you and know what you were thinking or feeling. Yet, she was so graceful in her responses to what she saw. Always giving space for you to avoid it for comfort’s sake. She was poise and polite, he assumed it was because she was cousins to the Sabaku clan in Suna, but it wasn’t just that. 

She was more than her lineage, she was one of a kind, even if he had no words to articulate who and what she was, he could only treasure what they have more and more. 

“You boys want to go play some games? We can always come back later to swim.”

“Can we swim just a little longer?”

“Sure we can Itachi.”

“Come swim with us big brother.”

“All right… All right,”  Obito stood, removing his shirt. He dropped his shirt onto the grass and looked up at the sky, his hand shielding his eyes from the sun… A grin plastered on his face. That was how Kakashi and Sakura found him… 

Sakura was proud of herself, she had conned Kakashi into getting her an ice cream while they searched for Obito. She hated to admit it, but her team spoiled her. Kakashi treated her like a sister while Obito treated her like a treasured friend. Rin always confided in her and treated her like a friend instead of a rival like the other females. She couldn’t help that she looked like a walking cherry blossom petal, it’s not like she could pick her genetics. She was meant to look like she did and that was all there was to it. 

“There’s Obito,” Kakashi’s voice had her looking for Obito. Once her eyes landed on him she froze on the spot.

Her ice cream was momentarily forgotten the moment she saw Obito’s abs. He was so casually and yet oh so sinfully removed his shirt. Revealing inch by glorious inch of muscle. Her mouth felt dry, but also wet with the desire to drool. She had never been more grateful of her failure to get him and Rin together and that he was no longer wanting to pursue the brunette. Because she doubts she would ever have the power or will to keep helping him get with the other girl on their team. His gaze going up towards the sky, his hand hovering over his face… Oh that grin made her stomach flip and her heart raced. This was cruel, but deep down she was thanking Kami that she got to witness it.

“Sakura,” Kakashi called with amusement.

“Y-Yeah?” 

“Is your hand cold?”

“No. Why?” 

“Because your ice cream is all over it.”

“W-What? Oh so it is,” Sakura’s face turned red and she gave Kakashi a sheepish look who laughed at her misfortune…

Shisui and Itachi were splashing at each other and laughing when Obito would toss them high into the air, loving the way the water swirled around them when they broke through its surface. They were free at this moment, free from clan obligation… Free to be children. The two boys swam a little ways away before Shisui turned to Itachi.

“I need your help.”

“With what? I am not helping you get free dango again.”

“This is better than dango.”

“Nothing is better than dango.”

“Trust me Tachi this is,” Shisui grabbed his cousin’s face and turned it so Itachi could see Sakura.

“A girl? Seriously? Isn’t she a bit old for you?”

“Not for me! For my brother, silly!”

“Obito? I don’t know she looks like a good match for Hatake…”

“Trust me she likes my brother.”

“How can you tell?”

“A little brother can always see these things. You’ll get it when Sasuke is old enough to talk.”

“I think you are full of it.”

“No faith. No faith at all, for shame on you Tachi. I am wounded.” 

“Sure you are… What do you have in mind?”

“We have to get them to kiss or something. That always worked for those princess movies.”

“Those are not realistic, but maybe…”

“We can run around them and when I give the signal you ‘bump’ into her and my brother catches her. They look into each other’s eyes and bam! They realize they are in love and I get a sister.”

“I don’t think it will happen that fast, but count me in,” Itachi said with a small smile…

Shisui swam over to his brother with a grin.

“Obi! Look! It’s Sakura and Kakashi,” the young boy pointed, his brother’s eyes following. Obito felt his heart quicken and his cheeks grow hot and it had nothing to do with the heat. The light blue color of that bikini Sakura wore really complemented the tone of her skin and the vibrant greens of her eyes. He felt himself swallow the lump that had formed in his throat all the while his brother and little cousin grinned at each other. 

“Obi can we go say hi?! Please!”

“I want to say hi too.”

“You will love her, Itachi! She is so nice and beautiful. Isn’t she big brother?”

“Y-Yeah sure.”

“You admitted she’s beautiful.”

“W-What? N-No Shi.”

“So she’s not beautiful?”

“She is, but…”

“You’re blushing Obi.”

“If your face turns any redder Obito, your face will resemble the tomatoes my little brother loves to eat.”

“Not you too Itachi,” Obito groaned, rubbing a hand over his face while the two boys snickered at the elder Uchiha’s plight. 

Despite the two children teasing him, he stole another glance at Sakura. Seeing her laugh and smile while talking with Kakashi did something to his insides. He was happy they were able to get along and be friends… But he was also jealous. He was envious of how good they looked together. He knew they were not a couple or the villagers would have already gushed about it. And yet here he was having thoughts of ripping his best friend to pieces for simply being able to talk with her so freely. He was always shy, but when it came to women he found attractive? That was a whole different ball game entirely for Obito.

Obito! Come on!

Shisui’s voice broke through the mental torture his mind was putting him through, he blinked a time or two seeing his brother and Itachi waving at him from the river bank. He shook his head and swam to shore. The two boys laughed and took off to his two teammates. Itachi was always a bit slower than his brother, but he knew that with the proper training in breathing during running and so on that the young heir would catch up to his best friend in no time. He walked to his shirt and put it back on before approaching his friends.

“About time you noticed us, Obito.”

“Can it Bakashi.”

“Make me.”

“You are such a pain in the ass.”

“Yeah well you still call me your best friend.”

“So?”

“So, what does that say you are?”

“The charming asshole.”

“In your fantasies maybe.”

“You two enough,” Sakura cut in with a laugh when they blamed each other at the same time.

It may have been the plan for Itachi to bump into her, but Shisui didn’t plan on it happening as fast as it did. He was chasing his best friend who looked back without paying attention and collided right into her at full speed. Both Obito and Kakashi shot an arm out catching her and asking if she was all right. Her cheeks reddened as she straightened herself mumbling out a “I’m fine.” Sakura turned and looked down at Itachi, who was rubbing his sore rear. His innocent filled eyes looked up at her sheepishly.

“S-Sorry. I usually pay more attention…”

“It’s fine. Are you all right,” her green eyes softened and she held her hand out. Itachi’s cheeks flared a brilliant red, his small hand disappearing into Sakura’s when her fingers curled around it.

“I am fine. Just wounded my pride is all.”

“Well it’s a good thing that pride can easily be fixed right,” Sakura smiled and winked at the young boy. 

Obito felt his lips twitch, he was stuck feeling a myriad of things. He was sure Sakura was not aware that Itachi was the Uchiha heir and if the boy’s parents had seen this they would probably have a cow that an ‘outsider’ touched their son. Fugaku more than Mikoto but he knew the woman well enough to know she wouldn’t like it. 

“R-Right.” The boy nodded his shyness, returning fullforce. 

“You sure you are okay?”

“Y-Yes.”

“Itachi that looked embarrassing.”

“Shi! That’s so mean!”

“How is that mean when I only said what it looked like?”

“Because you are teasing me and you know you are.”

“Trust me Itachi, if he was teasing it would be way worse.”

“Obi! Why do you have to call me out like that?”

“At least he didn’t deny it.”

“Kakashi!”

“Sorry kiddo, but I call it like I see it.”

Sakura ruffled Shisui’s hair causing the boy to grin at her.

“You two adorable boys play where Obito can see you okay?”

“We will Sakura,” Shisui answered, pulling his friend off with him.

“You do know Itachi is the Uchiha heir.”

“Yes I do. He is also sick.”

“Sick? The Uchiha doctors said he was fine.”

“Yeah well… They are either lying or not properly trained in the medical field.” 

“Don’t say that to their faces.”

“I will if I ever meet them.”

“S-Sakura?”

“They are shamelessly letting that boy suffer for no reason other than their pride. He needs to be examined by Tsunade or myself. I won’t over step your clan, but that boy can not be having an easy time breathing especially when playing. See how he slows down or stops for a minute or two? Shisui is but a child. He doesn’t understand that Itachi is sick. He just thinks he is weaker by age or something to that extent.”

“You are sure?”

“Yes Obito. I am absolutely sure.”

“The clan will not let you near him to heal him…”

“So, we figure out another way she can without them knowing.”

“And how do you suppose we do that Bakashi?”

“Didn’t I just say we will figure it out you dolt?”

“Enough you two.”

“He started it,” they yelled and turned from each other, Sakura shook her head…

The fireworks lit up the sky to end the event after a long day and night of fun. Shisui was curled into her side sleeping, his hand holding onto Itachi’s who was asleep beside him, his head resting on her knee.

“Poor little guys are tuckered out,” Sakura whispered to Obito.

“Looks like it.” 

“How are you going to get them both home?”

“I will manage.”

“Nonsense. I will carry Itachi and we can find his mother. Maybe I can appeal to her to let me take a look at him.”

“I don’t know if that’s such a good idea…”

“Itachi is sick and something has to be done.”

“All right all right. Don’t look at me like that.”

“Like what?”

“N-Nothing.”

“It wasn’t nothing. How was I looking at you?”

“I… I was just…”

“Out with it Obito.”

“Like he hurt your feelings.”

“Y-Yeah! Exactly what Kakashi said!”

“Okay…,” she responded, giving them a strange look watching Obito pick Shisui up. She gently scooped Itachi up into her arms and rose to her feet. 

She started walking ahead of Obito and Kakashi.

“Smooth Obito… Real Smooth.”

“Shut up.”

“Make a move already.”

“W-What?”

“Make… A… Move… Watching you go in circles around her is not as entertaining anymore.”

“We are friends.”

“But you want more. So go for it. You and Shisui are not part of the main branch like Itachi is so go get your girl and be happy.”

“It’s not that simple.”

“And why not?” 

“Because things are just… It’s just not that simple.”

“It is. You just let your family have more control than it should. Tell her Obito… Or I will,” with those last words Kakashi vanished leaving leaves dancing in the wind…

When Obito finally caught up to Sakura, she was talking with Mikoto who was smiling and laughing with her. LAUGHING! Obito almost tripped over himself. How in the hell had Sakura managed to do what many outside the clan had been unable to do. Hell even clansmen found it hard to do that. 

“Oh. Obito, your teammate here, was telling me that you did a good job watching Itachi. She even gave him a check up and some herbs that would clear up his lung condition. Isn’t that great?”

“Sakura is amazing. She’s going to surpass Tsunade one day.”

“I don’t know about that Obito.”

“Don’t be modest dear. Obito rarely praises people unless it's Shisui. If he does that it means a lot.”

“T-Thank you.”

“Now, how about Fugaku and I take the boys and you can walk Sakura home Obito?”

“But…But..”

“No buts. Walk this lovely lady home.”

“Yes ma’am,” Obito scratched the back of his head nervously…

They walked the city streets that were quickly emptying, drunk shinobi stumbling down the street shouting into the night sky about how great Konoha was or the tragedies they had seen. Obito grabbed Sakura and pulled her closer to him, his eyes narrowed watching the crowd for any sign that they were a threat. Her cheeks heated up and she involuntarily shivered feeling his fingertips brush her sides. 

“They are not a threat Obito.”

“I am not taking any chances. Alcohol makes the stupid stupider, and the violent more volatile.” 

“I know it can do that but they just seem…”

“Nothing is ever as it seems.”

“What do you mean by that?” 

“Be careful around Mikoto. She is not sweet as she presents herself.”

“W-What?”

“Just be careful okay?”

“I… I will.”

“Good. Let’s get you home.”

Obito should have known that the walk to Sakura’s home was not going to be without issues.

“Shouldn’t you be in your cage Uchiha?”

“It’s a compound hardly a prison.”

“Close enough isn’t it? We tolerate you lot enough. Leave the girl with us and go home.”

“No.”

“No? Hahaha… You think you have a choice?”

“I do have a choice, unlike you who blindly follows Danzo like a puppet on a string. Get lost.”

“Did you hear what we said Uchiha? Go home.”

“I heard you but I said no. I am going to make sure my teammate gets home SAFELY.”

“What are you implying?”

“I am implying that you are up to no good.”

“O-Obito…”

“It’s okay Sakura. They have no power nor are they capable of stopping me. His knees are already shaking. Tell Danzo he has to do better than this.”

They moved to walk by the ROOT member, but when he grabbed Sakura’s wrist that was all it took. Obito grabbed the man by the throat holding him high in the air, his eyes glowing red, his mangekyo sharingan spinning wildly.

“Touch her again I will gut you,” he growled, a craziness in those red depths. Sakura’s eyes widened in fear for Obito’s safety more than the cold murderous stare he gave Danzo’s lackey. A flash of yellow pulled the two apart… The Fourth had arrived.

“Minato-sensei.”

“Don’t worry Sakura, I’ve got this.”

It was that kind smile of her former teacher that made her visibly relax.

“Now, Obito. Let it go and get Sakura home. I will handle him.”

“The Uchiha are in charge of enforcing the law.”

“That’s true Obito, but this time I think it’s best if I handle this matter personally. I promise you everything will be okay.” The two’s eyes locked red versus blue and for a brief moment the tension was thick until Obito’s eyes faded back to black.

“I promise you, Obito. Everything is alright now. You will see.” The Uchiha gave a skeptical look before taking Sakura’s hand leaving, his face still holding his anger…

Sakura opened the door to her apartment, walked inside, and held it open for Obito to enter. His eyes scan the apartment for any sign of a threat.

“Obito…”

“Danzo is disgusting…”

“I know.”

“He deliberately sent them after you. How are you so calm?”

“Because it’s all right now.” 

“It wasn’t all right. What if you were alone?”

“But I wasn’t… You were there.”

“That isn’t enough,” he yelled, making Sakura recoil in shock.

He ran a hand through his hair in frustration.

“You are so naive sometimes. What if I didn’t walk you home? There are threats everywhere, even here.” 

“I am aware of that, I am not as naive as you seem to think. Nor am I some damsel that you have to coddle like a child!”

“That’s not what I meant and you know it.”

“No I don’t know. Sometimes you and Kakashi treat me like I am made of glass and I’m not!”

“That’s not why…”

“Then why?!”

“Because you are all I have outside of my family! You, Kakashi, Rin, Minato, and Shisui! You are all I have and I refuse to lose it!”

“Obito…”

“You don’t understand how alone I was…”

“We… We are not going anywhere Obito. No matter if the world falls down around us… We won’t leave you,” Sakura’s voice lowered to a whisper. Obito looked down at her, his eyes swimming with so much emotion his eyes looked like an endless night sky. His hand cupped her cheek, his thumb gently brushing along the expanse of her cheek. He leaned forward, and Sakura’s breath caught in her throat when she felt the heat of his lips pressing against her own. 

The kiss was electrifying as much as it warmed her entire body, there were so many words he was conveying in that moment and she was overwhelmed by them causing her eyes to draw closed. Some were even hard to comprehend, the next moment her lips felt cold. Her green eyes fluttered open and found herself alone. 

“Obito…,” she whispered quietly, her fingers coming up to touch her lips, her mind filled with so many questions. Why did he kiss her only to run away? What was going through Obito’s mind? What did he mean when he said Danzo went after her? Just what was going on in Konoha and why did it feel like the village’s shadows were about to be exposed? But most of all, why was her heart racing with the hope that Obito kisses her again…

That was the last time she spent any time alone with Obito. Tensions had been rising, especially with the announcement of Kushina's impending childbirth. Minato was doing the best he could with being Hokage, Fugaku’s friend, and being a supporting husband… But even his nerves were becoming frayed. Danzo had been working overtime to get the village to turn on the Uchiha while the Uchiha Clan tried to save as much face as much as they could with the village. Fugaku had aired his grievances many times, so much that Minato’s former students had caught wind of it. When Kakashi and Obito got sent on a mission, Sakura was watching over Shisui like a hawk. She would walk them home everyday leaving them with the Uchiha at the compound gate. Waving to Mikoto before making her own way home. That was when she had learned that Shisui had his mangekyo sharingan and that worried her further. Danzo was unnaturally obsessed with the Uchiha almost as much as Orochimaru was and all that revelation did to Sakura was fill her with more worry than her heart could properly handle…

Sakura was walking the boys home after training with them and getting them some dango when it happened. She was quick to pull out a kunai and deflect the shuriken launched at the children. 

“We are under orders Haruno to retrieve Shisui Uchiha. We are to dispose of you and his friend if you interfere.”

“You didn’t receive these orders from the Hokage so I won’t be doing that. They are children!” 

“No, they are monsters. We have to get them before they get us.”

Her green eyes narrowed and pulled the children behind her.

“You two… When I start fighting you run to the compound. Do not stop until you get there and do not look back. Got it?”

“But.”

“Now buts Shisui. Do what I tell you. Your brother would be absolutely devastated if anything happens to you.”

“He would feel just the same if something happened to you! Sakura we can fight too. Please, you are like a sister to me.”

“I know and that’s why I want to protect you. You and Obito are part of my family and I will do all I can to protect that. Stop begging to stay. Go back to the compound and protect Itachi and your clansmen. That’s what you can do.”

“Lady Sakura… We’ll return with help.”

“No Itachi, that's what they want. You all stay there until the Hokage calls for you.”

“I… I understand Lady Sakura. Shisui, come on. We have to tell the clan.”

“But..”

“Go,” Sakura yelled at the two boys and they took off as soon as she threw a smoke bomb to cover them, placing a mask over her face…

Sakura raised her fists, her feet sliding into a stance, her green eyes focused and determined. The smoke provided her enemy with some cover. She moved quickly, engaging one, and defending against the others. She flipped back launching kunai at them, the sound of steel rang into the air while they deflected them, she held out two fingers. Her kunai changed to paper bombs exploding. A gust of wind pulled her, her green eyes locking on to Danzo. 

“Give up. The Uchiha had this coming and I will not have you interfere more than you already have. Leave and you live, side with them then you will die.”

“Why are you doing this?”

“None of your business. An Uchiha sympathizer like you will never understand.”

“I will not let you go after those children.” 

“Then you die.” 

She placed her hand on the chest of the Root Member who leaped at her. The diamond appearing on her forehead glowing lines cascaded down her flesh and with a roar slammed her fist into his gut. He flew past Danzo, who became more irritated. Her smile only grew wider.

“I have inherited my Master’s Will of Fire and I will use it to protect those I cherish most,” she declared and ran at Danzo in a blur of speed. Both of them dodged and traded blows. The sheer force of Sakura’s chakra blowing through the area like a fierce wind. Sakura, realizing they were damaging the village, took off  to get them away from the people and buildings. Creating clones to take out any of them who tried to go after the Uchiha and Shisui. 

“Come on you son of a bitch! Bring it,” she taunted leading them to the training grounds. 

As soon as they were a safe distance away, she turned and punched the ground to knock Danzo off balance before he could attack her with his wind again. She ran at him, her fist going straight for his face. He grabbed her hand, holding onto it tightly and his eyes boring into hers. 

“Your obsession with the Uchiha has caused you to neglect others. I am immune to genjutsu,” she glared and headbutted him as hard as she could. Danzo stumbled back slightly.

Danzo retaliated and sent another wind attack only for Sakura to vanish.

“So that’s why you sent me and Kakashi away. You were going to make your move while two of the strongest shinobi were out of town.”

“Obito Uchiha…”

“The one and only. I am guessing your lackey didn’t tell you…” Obito appeared with Sakura, his eyes narrowed.

Sakura looked up at Obito and then back to their opponents

“I would kill anyone who tries to touch her.”

“The same goes for me,” Kakashi said from behind Danzo.

“Yo,” his mask hiding his grin from the look of surprise on Danzo’s pawn’s faces.

“Obito, they went after Shisui.”

“I know. He told me you were in danger. Minato sent us on a false mission to draw this rat out.”

“How about we show him our teamwork?”

“As long as you don’t screw this up Kakashi.”

“Yeah yeah. More like you would.”

“Boys! Focus! Save that for later!”

“Right,” they both yelled and the three appeared around them creating a triangle. Each one performing their own hand signs. 

“Earth, Lightning, Fire style. Dance of the Dragon’s Breath,” they called together merging their elements to create a larger scaled one. 

“Now,” Obito called to them and they followed behind the attack. The attack disappeared, and they noticed the genjutsu too late to block the three incoming assaults. Kakashi cut through his enemies with deadly precision and grace, Sakura punched and kicked her enemy, her leg slamming into the side of his neck snapping his neck as he was sent flying. Leaving Obito and Danzo. 

Obito walked toward Danzo who’s attacks went straight through him.

“What are you?”

“An Uchiha, but unlike my family what fuels my abilities is not pain but love and gratitude. Minato wanted us to spare you… I have no idea why but…” Obito appeared behind Danzo.

“Obito…” He couldn’t hear his comrades calling for him.

“I choose not to listen to him… I will make you suffer until you die,” Obito spun Danzo around, grabbing his face. The two disappeared leaving a worried Sakura and a frowning Kakashi behind.

“What is he going to do?”

“Knowing him… Take him to a dimension where he can watch him suffer.”

“Obito…”

“We don’t have time to wait on it. We need to help the Uchiha.”

“Right. Go get Rin. I am going to need help healing the wounded.” 

“Meet you there.”

“Be careful.”

“You too,” and both went their separate ways…

Obito was having too much fun… Deep down he knew what he was doing was not something he should be doing but damn it felt so good. He had taken Danzo to three different dimensions. The acid water dimension where the water droplets singed the old man’s skin and Obito wrapping himself in a chakra shield prevented harming him. Then it was to the lava dimension… 

“This doesn’t even cover the costs for what you have done. Not just to my clan but the village as a whole.”

“You…”

“What about me? Do you secretly curse me to hell? Do you pray that you will be avenged?”

“...”

“Consider this the payment for dancing with the devil and thinking you were safe from the consequences.”

“You think you are so self righteous and innocent…”

“That’s where you are wrong, old man. I am not a saint nor am I sinner. I am clearly not a devil because I can still feel, but I am also no angel because peaceful resolutions annoy me. The true difference between you and I and so many others is I am more than willing to take the punishment for my decisions…”

 He dipped Danzo’s legs into the magma, eyes sparkling with dark satisfaction over the scream of pain. Then to the ice dimension, the frigid cold doing little to ease Danzo’s suffering. He alternated between each one prolonging the old man’s suffering for as long as he could before he grew bored and dropped Danzo into the lava pit watching the man practically melt into nothing before he went home…

The village was in chaos, shinobi clashing with shinobi… Civilians running in panic. Fires erupted from homes and buildings. Clear signs of civil war… Uchiha, Konoha shinobi, and Danzo’s ROOT littered the streets. The ground shook, his eyes rose to the sky to see Katsuyu, the legendary summon of Tsunade, but the Senju woman was not standing on top of it… It was Sakura. The slug erupted into thousands upon thousands of smaller versions of herself and rushed through the village. Healing all of the wounded, his lips lifted into a smile watching it unfold. Sakura may have been a Suna shinobi once upon a time but right at this moment she was a Konoha kunoichi fighting to protect her home and people. A slug appeared in front of him. 

“Lady Sakura told me to find you. Shisui and Itachi are safe behind the falls.”

“Naka River…”

“Yes, they took the children with them. Sakura and Kakashi have been holding the enemy back from the compound but I have no idea how much longer they can stand. Minato has also joined the fight. Fugaku Uchiha was wounded in the battle.”

“Thank you Katsuyu. I am going to them. You go to the Uchiha clan head and do all you can to keep him alive.” 

Katsuyu hesitated for a moment.

“At least let me become smaller so you have me with you Obito… If something happens to you then… Lady Sakura would be upset.”

“Worry about the villagers. I will be fine. I am going to Sakura now.”

“Thank Kami. Be careful Obito. Konoha is in absolute chaos and disarray.”

“I will Katsuyu and thank you,” Obito spun on his heel, leaping to the rooftops and jumping each one to get to Sakura and Kakashi… 

Kakashi grabbed Sakura by the waist and leaped back to avoid an attack.

“They are endless…”

“Something about them is unnatural.”

“You are right… Like they have been altered in some way.”

“Orochimaru… So Danzo had dealings with that snake as well.”

“Lady Tsunade and Jiraiya’s teammate? That is not good… There is no telling what he’s done to them.” 

“Am I late to the party,” Obito asked, landing next to them absorbing a water dragon into his kamui. 

“Obito!”

“Danzo?”

“He’s dead, Kakashi. Let’s not dwell on it right now our village is being overrun.” 

“I never expected that this many shinobi would agree with Danzo’s logic…”

“They are all lambs to the slaughter.”

“Obito…”

“I am only being straightforward and honest. My clan is also to blame for this. They were too prideful. Their holier than thou attitude caused Danzo and pawns to see us as the instigators and like fools they fed into Danzo’s schemes. The villagers began to resent and even fear all of us.”

Mikoto and several other Uchiha landed next to them.

“Thank you Kakashi, Sakura. Your arrival earlier was timely and much needed.”

“Don’t thank us yet… We still have these left to deal with.”

“Obito… I know you and I don’t see eye to eye from time to time…”

“What do you want me to do?”

“Do you think you can Kamui them all?”

“It is possible I suppose but not by normal means… My chakra would run out and you forget there are people fighting alongside us that will get caught in it.”

“We can’t just keep fighting them all… They will eventually…”

“Obito, Aunt Mikoto. I can use my Sharingan.”

They turned to see Shisui, the little boy’s face holding an expression of determination.

“Shi… Your Magenkyo is still new.”

“Obi, I can do it.”

“There’s too many. How will you get them all?”

“I will use that,” he grinned pointing at the full moon. 

“The moon? How will that…”

“Sakura, the Uchiha clan and the moon go hand in hand. If Shisui uses his genjutsu on the moon then it’s possible it would act like a mirror.”

“Yeah and anyone in the moon’s range of light gets affected by it. You are talking about mind controlling most of the shinobi world.”

“I do not see an alternative. We either mind control them or die here.”

“Kakashi…”

“Obito, I know you are against it and even fearful of Shisui getting hurt… But I trust the kid. If he’s anything like you then he will succeed.”

Obito walked to his brother, kneeling down to eye level.

“You sure you can and want to do this?”

“Yeah. I will make sure to try and keep the genjutsu limited to here in Konoha.” the elder of the brothers looked toward the Uchiha matriarch.

“Where is the best spot for Shisui to do this?”

“Probably Hokage Mountain.”

“Sakura, Kakashi help Mikoto keep the enemy pushed back.”

“Obito, Shisui, you two be careful.”

The worry in Sakura’s eyes made Obito give her a soft smile, his hand cupping her cheek.

“We’ll be back before you know it.”

“Yeah Sakura! You will see! Obito and I will save everyone,” Shisui gave a salut and both him and Obito vanished. 

“I hope you are right, Shi.”

“That little boy adores you.”

“I…”

“No sense in denying it. You and Obito have gotten closer since the war.”

“That’s true.”

“It is a welcomed sight. Those two need someone to see past them being part of the side branch or as orphans not worth the trouble. They don’t know that I tried to take them in…”

“What happened?”

“The Uchiha Elders said no. I always wondered if it had to do with their grandfather Kagami, but like most of my clansmen… They are as elusive as ever.”

“Heads up. Here they come. The banter will have to wait,” Kakashi declared, his eyes narrowing and the two women got into a defensive stance… 

Obito and Shisui appeared at the top of Hokage Mountain.

“With the moon’s trajectory… Tobirama’s head is the best spot.” 

“Shi…”

“Don’t start Obito! I can do this! I may be small but I am not one of the Uchiha prodigies for nothing!”

“I know I know…”

“I get it, Obi. I will be careful. I promise,” Shisui leapt to the statue of Tobirama’s head and looked up at the moon. His eyes bleeding to red, the black tomoe merging to create a pinwheel. It began to spin as he cast his genjutsu upon the moon. Focusing on what he wanted his ability to do. Shisui could feel the burning in his eyes, the blood pooling, and then falling like tears.

“Shisui!”

“I am okay. I am not about to give up now. I refuse to throw in the towel.” That was the last thing Shisui remembered before everything went black…

Obito sat beside his brother in his hospital room, the bandages over his eyes the reminder to him that he was supposed to protect his brother… That he should be the one laying there instead. He held his brother’s hand and prayed to anyone who would listen that he would wake up soon. 

“Yo! How’s the little hero?”

“Still asleep like sleeping beauty.”

“I see. Did they say if his eyes were permanently damaged?”

“Thank Kami, they are not permanently damaged… However, they are injured.”

“Will his sight be impaired?”

“I don’t know. Sakura, Tsunade, and Rin worked tirelessly to get him to even be stable.”

“What happened after he cast that genjutsu?”

“He started convulsing and just fainted, he fell off the mountain. I was lucky to catch him, but…”

“None of this is your fault Obito.”

“I know… It’s Danzo and his useless pawns, but I am his brother…”

“And you did what a good big brother always does. You let him shine and you shielded him when he was vulnerable. You two are what brothers really should be.”

“How is Itachi?”

“Oh, he’s fine. His lung issue is all healed up and he defended those kids like the future clan head he is. No doubt Fugaku would have been proud.”

“What do you mean would have?”

“Fugaku… He died from complications from all of the surgeries he had to keep him alive and a poison that was not traceable by the medics until it had eaten almost all of his insides.” 

“Is Mikoto okay?”

“I wish I could say… The compound has been shut down to anyone… The whole clan is mourning him.”

“How is Minato?”

“He is good and Kushina is safe. The Third was also killed. Many speculate Fugaku went to confront him and their fight was intercepted by Danzo’s ROOT.”

“Figures… Did Hiruzen suffer?”

“No. Fugaku knowing he was dying made sure Hiruzen died before he did.”

Obito leaned back in his chair and looked at the ceiling. 

“The Uchiha elders would fight before they let Mikoto lead the Uchiha until Itachi is of age.”

“They may fight it for a time, but she has a lot of support.”

“That’s true. She… Her and I always butted heads… I was a child and Shisui was an infant when our parents died. They left me to fend and take care of him alone.”

“Obito… She tried to take you in. The elders wouldn’t let her.”

“What? Why?”

“She suspects it was because of your grandfather Kagami.”

“What did he do that his line was treated as less than dirt at the bottom of someone’s shoe?”

“I wish I knew. I don’t think even Mikoto knows.” 

“Kushina chose her to take care of her baby if something happens to her. If something did… I hope she fights harder for them than she did my brother and I.”

“I bet she would. She looks like she’s learned to find her voice. Have you seen Sakura?”

“Not today. I just want to be here with my brother… He’s all that matters right now.”

“I understand.” Kakashi replied, putting his hand on his friend’s shoulder. His grip became more firm when he felt Obito’s shoulders tremble as he cried… 

Obito was asleep in the chair when he heard the door open. He sat up groggily and rubbed his eyes.

“Good morning Sakura…”

“Good morning Obito.”

“Checking his vitals and stuff again,” he asked, watching her work on Shisui.

“Yeah, he looks much better today. He should wake up soon, Obito, don't worry.”

“What about his eyes?”

“They are fine. He did overdo it but not to the point of blindness.”

“He had a seizure…”

“I know. It was because he was exhausted and kept pushing. He is so much like you.”

“You think so?”

“I know so… Always going above and beyond for those he cares about,” her eyes met his, a small smile on her lips. Obito felt his cheeks grow hot and he scratched the back of his head.

“I don’t think that is such a good thing.”

“How come?”

“Because two wreckless brothers would make too many people worry… Especially each other.”

“I suppose that is true, but we need more kind men like you two in this world.” 

“I don’t know about kind if you knew what I did to Danzo…”

“Then tell me.”

“No…”

“Why not?”

Obito put his head in hands.

“Because I don’t think you will look at me the same.”

“Did he suffer?”

“Not near enough… But yes he did.”

“Good.”

“W-What?”

“I said good. You are right. He deserved so much more but I am glad that the Uchiha and the people he hurt got justice regardless.”

“Sakura…”

“Too many died because of the games Danzo played… It’s about time someone beat him at his own game.”

“Yeah…”

“You are not a monster Obito. You did what you had to do in order to save your family, your friends, and your home.”

“You didn’t feel what I felt… I wanted so much more than what was given… Not just justice… Not just vengeance… I started to hate the world…”

“What made you not follow that feeling?”

“Shisui… I can’t imagine being in a world where he was not there.”

“Obito… About that kiss…”

“Oh! That! Um, let's pretend it didn’t happen! Heheheheh…”

He missed the look of pain that flashed through Sakura’s eyes.

“Oh… Okay. Shisui is doing great and will wake up hopefully in the next few hours.”

“Sakura… Wait…,” his words fell on the quietness that entered the room when she quickly left. 

No one heard them but him and his sleeping brother. He growled in frustration and slumped back into his chair.

“Obito… You damned moron… Why are you so damn stupid?”

“You know I have been asking that question since we were kids.”

“Anyone but you right now Kakashi…”

“Too bad you got me.”

“Kami… Why?”

“Well someone has to give it to you straight so he sent me. If you wanted her to be your girlfriend or whatever that was your shot and… You blew it. Congratulations.”

“I fucking hate you sometimes.” 

“No you don’t and that makes you madder doesn’t it?”

“No it doesn’t but it does make my life more complicated…”

Kakashi gave a grin, slipping the rest of the way in from the window.

“Be glad she still likes you.”

“After that I doubt it…” 

“She didn’t punch you to the next year so I think you are fine.”

“Kami, why couldn’t I just say that the way she looked at me made it hard not to kiss her?!”

“I have no idea because you just said it.”

“I know I did you ass! I just can’t tell her that!”

“Here’s to hoping Shisui has more balls than you do when he likes a girl.”

“Ugh! I hate you!”

“You said that already too repeat,” Kakashi almost broke out into laughter from his best friend’s glare.

“Obito,” the weak voice of Shisui called and all was forgotten as Obito shot up from his chair, grabbing Shisui’s hand, and whispering over and over “I’m here”...

Obito was miserable, Sakura was avoiding him and he knew it. It was his fault, that was not something he would ever deny. Yet, how could he make things right if she kept avoiding him? The clan was giving him the silent treatment which was nothing unusual, but Shisui joining them did something to his insides. The way his younger brother would only talk to him if it was a question about food or something he had to answer Obito was borderline driving him nuts. Add Sakura’s avoidance, the man was on the verge of snapping.

“Shi… You can’t keep ignoring me.”

“I can and you know I can.”

“I don’t even know what you are mad about.”

“Why is Sakura avoiding you?”

“...”

“Whatever you did fix it.”

“It’s not that simple, Shi.”

“Sure it is. Go apologize! I don’t know what you did but it has to be bad if Sakura avoids you like you have the plague.”

“Shisui… Have you talked to her?”

“Yeah when you aren’t around she talks to me.” That confession from his brother cut deep into his heart.

“Oh…”

“Obi… Just talk to her okay? Sakura is a good person. Just apologize for what you did.”

Obito groaned in frustration, rubbing the back of his neck.

“Would she even believe me?”

“I have no idea. I alter people’s memories with my Sharingan, not read minds. If I could, I would have gotten you with Sakura by now.”

“...”

“Why are you turning red?”

“N-No reason.”

“Bullshit. You did something, didn't you?” 

“Language and I uh…”

“Who cares that I cursed? I literally saved the village. I get a free pass. Out with it bro.”

“I may… Have kissed her and then told her to pretend it didn’t happen…”

“You… You’re an idiot.”

“I know.”

“No you aren’t an idiot. You are a complete dumbass.”

“H-Hey!”

“Well you are. How can you ask her to do something like that?!”

“I don’t know, okay? She wanted to talk about it and all of a sudden this fear washed over me! I panicked and it just came out!”

“Obi. You have to say you are sorry!”

“I know I do… It’s just she keeps avoiding me and even has Tsunade blocking me.”

“Oh man… Well eventually she will have to slip up and talk to you.”

“I wish…” Shisui’s sympathetic look did little to make Obito feel better…

Kakashi peered over his book from his perch on his favorite tree and almost sighed seeing the grins on Itachi’s and Shisui’s faces.

“What do you guys want?”

“We need your help to get Sakura to talk to Obito.”

“No thank you. I choose life.”

“Oh come on Kashi! Obito is depressed and he needs his best friend’s help.”

“He’s got you.”

“I am not enough when it comes to this type of depression and you know it.”

“I still fail to see why I should help.”

“You promised to help me get Sakura and Obito together.”

“I did do that. He kissed her and then he blew it.”

“Kakashi… Obito really needs you. Shisui and I have tried everything. We are not asking you to do much. Just help us get them together so they can talk.”

“Yeah and even if he kissed her it wasn’t because you helped! You gave your word Kakashi. I thought your ninja way was to keep your word?”

“You see… Itachi almost had me and then you said that.”

“Nononono! I am sorry!”

Kakashi grinned behind his book before closing it.

“Relax half pint. I will help. What do you need me to do?”

“We haven’t figured that part out…” Kakashi almost fell out of the tree at that.

“You have no plan at all? You little troublemakers do not have plan seriously?”

“Kashi, you are in Anbu. So… We kinda hoped you could help us think of something.”

“Oh… I get it. You want me to do it all and you two just take credit huh?”

“Not exactly… It’s just we haven’t thought of anything more than locking them in a room together.”

“Now there’s an idea…”

“You serious?”

“I am Itachi. We can also turn the heat up on them too…”

“Like what”

“There’s a special training room in Anbu… Nothing like forcing them to work together to get out… That would require them to have to speak to one another.”

“That’s a bit overboard…”

“It’s perfect! How quick can we do it?!”

“Shisui… This is a bad idea. You could make things worse or make them angry at you.”

“Worth it if Obi quits moping and looking like he might cry.” Kakashi jumped down from the tree and the three continued formulating their plan…

Sakura stared out the window of the hospital, her green eyes not holding their normal shine. She was being unfair to Obito, but as soon as the thought came to her mind she frowned. He deserved it after what he did. Obito had no idea what that kiss of his had done and he ran away from it like a coward. Shattering her heart without even knowing that he did. He had tried to talk to her, but she just couldn’t pretend that nothing happened and act like nothing had changed… The chair across from her slid back, the sound of the legs scraping the floor made her aware of the new presence to her space. She wiped her eyes and looked at the newcomer.

“Rin…”

“Hey, are you okay?”

“I am fine.”

“You know men may believe that excuse but us women… We know better.”

“I know… But if I keep saying that then maybe one day it will be true.”

“Sadly it won’t until you decide to fix what isn’t fine.”

“I wish it were that easy.”

“Obito… He’s really beating himself up… I don’t know what happened between you two, but you two are hurting more than just yourselves.”

“What?”

“Shisui… That kid loves you both so much and he had several years having the two of you being around each other. It was you three all the time and now that’s been ripped from him. Sure you are talking to Shisui but it’s not the same. He is still a kid and you can tell it's affecting him just as much as it does the two of you.”

“I…”

“Shisui knows you are not doing it to hurt him, but it does still hurt.” 

Sakura’s lips pursed in thought.

“I am not ready to face Obito.”

“What happened?”

“He… He kissed me and then told me to basically forget it happened.”

“That idiot. Knowing Obito, he did it out of his own fear Sakura. Not because he regretted it. He probably feared you were going to reject him and said the first thing that came to his head.”

“You think he didn’t mean it?”

“I know he didn’t. Sure he had a crush on me, but the way he looks at you… That’s love. He finally felt it for real and it scared the hell out of him.” 

“I… I still need time.”

“I understand. Handle it when you are ready.” Sakura could only nod and give the brunette a small smile…

She worked in a haze all day, her mind always going back to Obito whether she wanted to think about him or not. Rin was right, she knew, but the pain still lingered. As if her beating heart kept reopening the wound. Then there is what Rin had said about Shisui. If she had hurt the young boy, it would absolutely break her completely. He was innocent in all of this and she never wanted him hurt. The more she thought about it the more she felt worse. When her shift was over she walked out the doors and saw Kakashi leaning against the stone wall.

“About time you came out.”

“How long were you waiting?”

“Ten minutes.”

“Be still my heart Kakashi had to wait on someone instead of us waiting on him.”

“Cute. Real cute.”

“I thought so too.”

“Come with me.”

“Why?”

“Because the silent treatment you gave Obito has caused some issues.”

“What kind of issues? Is Obito okay? Shisui?”

“Calm down. They are fine… Kind of.”

“What do you mean kinda?!”

“Obito may have ended up in one of the Anbu training rooms… The one I use to be precise.”

“And how did he manage that Captain .”

“I may have told him he could try out for Anbu and in my defense he went into the wrong one.”

“Kami. You were supposed to be there, Kakashi! No one is to be tested for Anbu without you being present.”

“Kami forbid I use the bathroom. Despite having hounds… It doesn’t mean I am comfortable with pissing on the floor. Blame my dad for potty training me when I was three.”

“I am sorry… It’s just the one you use killed three Anbu last week!”

“I am aware and that’s why we are heading there now.” Sakura bit her lip as she began to walk faster…

Obito was going to beat his brother and his friend to an inch of their lives. They had tricked him into being completely foolish and he ran into the Anbu HQ and made a beeline for Kakashi’s training room. Granted they had told him that Sakura was trying out for Anbu and because she was Tsunade’s former apprentice and his and Kakashi’s teammate, she had to take the test in the training room that belonged to the latter of the two. He looked around and could find no sign of her and when he turned to question Shisui and Itachi, they grinned and locked him inside! Now, here he was becoming intangible and dodging like his life depended on it. The room gave little to no time for him to Kamui out of there…

He had miscalculated and the clone of Kakashi was coming right at him. Next thing he knew the clone flew to the side and slammed into the wall. He looked to his left to see an angry Sakura. She turned to him and crossed her arms.

“What the hell were you thinking?!”

“Me?! What were you thinking?! Trying out for Anbu!”

“What? I’m not trying out, you are!”

“What are you talking about?!”

“You mean…”

“We were tricked… Watch out,” Obito yelled, his arm wrapping around her and making them both intangible to dodge another Kakashi clone using chidori. 

“We will talk when we get out of here.”

“Good idea, but these Kakashi clones are not giving me a chance to use Kamui.”

“That’s because Kakashi updates them every time he spars…”

“Say what now?”

“Kakashi is constantly adding what he learns on missions etc to ensure he finds every possible defense.”

“That is honestly more terrifying than it should be. 

“In a way it is… But it does make Kakashi an impossible foe to beat.”

“He’s like Tobirama… Always learning and evolving,” Obito frowned as they dodged and attack again…

Just then the Kakashi clone split into three.

“Oh come on! One was bad enough!”

“Obito! Focus! It is just a few clones. We need to figure out how to take them out all out at once!”

“You know… I am glad you are talking to me again… Despite being tricked and all…”

“Save it for when we are not in danger of receiving a chidori to the chest or gut!”

“You’re right,” Obito responded and the two stood together. Back to back…

He was actually breaking a sweat… Leave it to Kakashi to actually make Obito worry about losing. They were able to take out the other two, but the last one was being a pain in the ass. With grace that only his best friend could ever have… He was dancing around them as if he was better than them. Part of Obito agreed that Kakashi was better than a lot of shinobi. He was always growing better and stronger with every spar, every mission, and every fight. Sakura was proving to be the only one close enough to be equal to Kakashi and himself but he could tell the battle was starting to get to her. His eyes widened when Sakura was dodging the chidori of the clone grazed her arm sending electricity through her body. He appeared next to her, his hand on her shoulder. She looked at him with tired eyes and a groan of pain. Obito couldn’t remember much after that, but he did remember the pain in his eyes. The building shook, a light blue forming around Obito. The rage being felt as the energy lashed out destroying all in its path…

Shisui, Itachi, and Kakashi were quick to escape the Anbu HQ as it crashed down all around them.

“Shit! He’s mad.”

“Mad is an understatement… I told you that this plan may backfire.”

“Not now, Itachi!”

“The good news is not much is around here. No civilians are in immediate danger.”

“Kakashi… Uchiha feel love deeply. Sakura was hurt and in this kind of rampage… Obito is not thinking clearly.”

“Itachi’s right. The Susano’o only shows up if an Uchiha is on death’s door, their will to protect, or when someone close to them is hurt or dead.”

“Where’s the clone?”

“It was destroyed from the shockwave of energy when the Susano’o formed.” 

“That’s a relief he should calm down yeah?” The three looked up at the giant humanoid type shield…

Obito’s eyes hurt, but the energy around him and Sakura was something else entirely to him. Even through stinging vision he could make out Sakura’s form. Those green eyes shining with worry and a hint of curiosity. She stood up holding her arm and stepped closer to him.

“What is this?”

“Susano’o… It’s a defense for the Uchiha.”

“I see… The danger is gone. You don’t need it anymore.”

“But I do… You are hurt and…”

“I am fine, Obito. Nothing that I can’t heal.”

“We were tricked… You were hurt because of them… Because of me.”

“Because of them? You? No one is to blame…”

“Yes they are! Shisui, Itachi, and Kakashi…”

“Listen to yourself! You are talking about hurting your own brother!”

“They have to learn…”

“Obito! Wake up,” Sakura yelled at him, but that wild look in his eyes… It terrified her, he wasn’t her Obito at that moment. He was a man hell bent on making someone pay. Ignoring the pain in her arm, she threw herself into him, and wrapped her arms around him…

Obito stiffened and looked down at her, Sakura buried her face into his chest.

“Please don’t. Think about it, Obito… They were only trying to help. Please don’t hurt them or yourself.”

“Sakura… I,” he whispered and when he felt her tears through his shirt, he took a breath, and wrapped his arms tightly embracing her. His face was nuzzling into her hair. His hand stroked the strands of her pink hair. 

“Stay as my Obito… Please don’t change.”

“I won’t. I-I’m not going anywhere Sakura,” he choked out feeling the susano’o faded away. He held her tighter as their feet touched the ground.

“Thank you Sakura.”

“Obito,” she finally looked up at him, the red trails of her tears only adding to the expression in her eyes…

He gave her a big grin, and Sakura choked out a sob. Her Obito was back.

“I’m sorry Sakura.”

“Don’t be… I am just glad you are you again.”

“I’m not sorry about that… Well I am, but I am sorry about… You know.”

“What? I don’t understand.”

“I am sorry about lying to you. Truth is… I don’t want you to pretend that I didn’t kiss you. I want you to remember it and the many more I will give to you. I want you to know that the kiss we shared scared the hell out of me. All the emotions I felt from it… It was so much stronger than what I felt for Rin and I.. I didn’t know what to do. I knew it was because I love you, but it was so strong that it overpowered my senses… Kami I am so bad at this… What I am trying to say… Mmph,” Obito was silenced by Sakura gripping his shirt and pulling him down, her lips crashing against his. Sending wave after wave of emotion from their connected lips down to his toes. He closed his eyes pulling her closer, his hand cupping her cheek…

~Many years later~

Obito and Sakura had gotten married, it was not a big wedding ceremony like most clans did. It was a small, private one. They only wanted those close to them there. Tsunade had given them a small piece of land that belonged to the Senju clan and with the help of Kakashi’s friend Tenzo, they built their own home. Rin had married a Hyuga that she had been crushing on and Kakashi finally settled down with a cousin of Tsunade’s that had been living in Ame and had no idea that she was part of the Senju line. Apparently Tobirama had a secret family that fled the village upon his death. Ariya was her name and she instantly adopted Sakura as a sister when they met. It was funny seeing Kakashi so smitten and acting like Obito had done most of his childhood… 

“What are you thinking about?”

“Oh nothing… Just how much our lives have changed.”

“Oh?”

“Yeah. I am glad it didn’t work out with Rin. Because I can’t imagine my life without you… And now we have a home and a baby on the way.”

“An active baby at that. I swear the baby is as emotional as his dad and temperamental as me. I don’t know how much more my bladder can take from him using it as a punching bag.”

“Kizuna will greet the world soon and your bladder will get a break.”

“I know. I guess I am starting to get impatient and…” Shisui walking in with a red face made Sakura pause. He avoided looking at them and went straight to his room.

“I know that blush from anywhere…”

“Shisui likes someone.”

“I am not ready for that! No! I refuse!”

“Obito…”

“No, I refuse to live through the shenanigans again.”

“Too bad because your little brother is in love. At least it's not you this time and you can get him back for his matchmaking schemes…”

“Good point. Oh Shisui,” Obito grinned while walking after his brother, causing Sakura to laugh and shake her head… She loved her boys and she felt lucky to be loved by them…

THE END