In Another Life

Summary: "So, I'd risk tetanus just to see you. Apparently, it's not just reflexes I'd be lacking in, but common sense." In which Sakura imagines a different life, and Sasuke somehow manages to be sweet and an ass at the same time. [SasuSaku Festival 2017 – Day 6 – Prompt: "Civilian & Shinobi Love"]

Disclaimer: This story utilises characters, situations and premises that are copyright Masashi Kishimoto, Shueisha, Shonen Jump and Viz media. No infringement on their respective copyrights pertaining to episodes, novelisations, comics or short stories is intended by KuriQuinn in any way, shape or form. This fan-oriented story is written solely for the author's own amusement and the entertainment of the readers. It is not for profit. Any resemblance to real organizations, institutions, products or persons, living or dead, is purely coincidental.

All plot and Original Characters except for those introduced in the canon books, manga, video games, novelizations and anime, are the sole creation of KuriQuinn. (© KuriQuinn 2016- )

Rating: K

Warning: Spoilers for pretty much everything up to Chapter 699. Dialogue-only fic.

Canon-Compliance: As close to canon as fanfiction can possibly be. With a few personal additions :P Takes place during the Blank Period.

Beta Reader: Sakura's Unicorn

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"Do you ever think about it?"

"Think about what?"

"If we weren't shinobi. Or if only one of us was. Would that've changed anything?"

"...No."

"Really? You think so?"

"You would've still found your way to a profession that helps people. That's who you are."

"I find it funny that you assume I'd be the one who ended up a civilian in this scenario."

"Balance of probability. I can't see myself as anything else."

"Really? Because I have no problem picturing you as working in a restaurant or a café or something. It's your all-encompassing love of people, you know?"

"Your sense of humour leaves much to be desired."

"But, darling, you'd look so good in a uniform!"

"Tch. I'm going back to sleep now."

"No, no—listen! I could come by to see you after my latest mission from ANBU, order a coffee—"

"You have an overactive imagination."

"—and I'd be the only one whose order you always knew perfectly, because you looove me—"

"Debatable."

"—and I'd always choose that shop because your coffee is amazing."

"This would never happen, Sakura."

"But it would! You make excellent coffee—you know, for a tea-drinker."

"Why would I own a café if I don't drink coffee?"

"I didn't say you'd own it, just that you'd work there."

"So, not only am I not a shinobi, but I'm not even an entrepreneur."

"I don't think you have the patience to start your own business."

"And yet, apparently, I have the patience for public service?"