Chapter 2.
"Sakura-chan!" A familiar, warming voice shouted behind me.
"Hey Naruto!" I waved back as he ran to my side.
"So I gotta ask you. What do you want for your birthday? It's gonna be a sweet 18!" he announced with a huge grin across his face.
"You know what I want is impossible.." I automatically thought of Sasuke, "but I don't really need a present Naruto. It's fine but thanks for the offer."
"Oh come on Sakura, you only turn 18 once! We gotta celebrate somehow!"
"We only turn every age once Naruto."
"You're missing the point." He pointed out. "I'm gonna throw you a party that's so awesome, you're gonna have the best night of your life!"
I laughed at his enthusiasm. "Thanks Naruto. You never fail to make me smile."
And with that, I left to go visit Ino.
*To Sakura and Ino*
"Hey Pig!", I shouted at the blonde standing in the flower shop.
"Oh hey, Forehead! Whatcha up to? Any birthday plans yet?"
"Nothing much. Naruto thinks he's throwing me a party, but I don't want to make a huge fuss over myself. Age is just a number."
"Oh come on Sakura! You've been working in the hospital nonstop for the past couple of months. Don't you think you should relax and party for awhile?"
It's true, I have been working as the top medic in the fire country as Lady Tsunade's apprentice. Working has kind of kept my mind occupied so I don't think about a certain person.. Ever since we were on our first real mission to escort the bridge builder, and I couldn't help Sasuke or Naruto when they were hurt, I vowed to never let anyone die on my watch. They are the reason I am so strong today, along with my extreme chakra control.
"I guess you're right, Ino. It should be healthy to rest my mind for a bit!"
"Besides, we could meet some very FINE guys while we're there" she added with a wink.
I immediately froze. I'm not good with relationships. I can't actually give them my everything, no matter how hard I've tried.
"Err..uhh..I mean.." Ino knew what was going on in my head. She couldn't stop stuttering now that she put the topic out in the blue.
"Don't worry Ino. I know you didn't mean to bring it up. But you're right! It's been years, and I need to get over him! He's not going to come back so I might as well try again with someone new!" I faked through with a smile.
"Alright.. Well then that means we need to go shopping later on me. It'll be your birthday present, so you can pick out anything you want!" she added suddenly beaming.
"Okay, it's a plan. See you later Pig!"
"You too Forehead!"
