Author's Note: Now this is an AU continuation of The Queen of Hearts by the amazing author Grim Peasant. For a bit of background, this author was my inspiration to publish stories on this site. Go give this author love and support for their amazing stories. I have gotten permission from the author to publish this AU Continuation. Since this a continuation it is highly recommended that you read Grim Peasant's story first to capture the essence of this story. When I wrote this AU, chapter 24 was not up yet so this story begins with chapter 24. I hope you enjoy!
Here is the link for the story: s/11355866/1/Queen-of-Hearts
Summary: An AU Continuation of Grim Peasant's story The Queen of Hearts
Disclaimer: Rated M just to be safe. There will be cuss words and some semi-explicit scenes. I do not own anything. The Naruto universe belongs to its respected parties. The story from chapter 1 to 23 is all Grim Peasant.
The Queen of Hearts: AU Continuation
Chapter 24
"Hinata-sama?" Gaara gently whispered to the crying woman.
Hinata continued to look down at the soft carpet under her knees. She clutched the red scarf to her chest and she could feel the stinging sensations of the flowing tears. From the corner of her eyes, she saw Gaara slowly kneel beside her. His hand was softly placed on her shoulder in a way to comfort her. Hinata felt a new surge of tears and she jumped towards Gaara. She wrapped her arms around Gaara's shoulders and she tucked her head into his chest. "O-Oh, G-Gaara!" She wailed out. Her sobs were coming out haggard and rough. The emotions she had tried to keep in were coming out in full force and she could no longer stop the constant waves of pain.
Gaara flinched at the sudden contact, he had never seen Hinata this hurt. He wrapped his arms strongly around her and let her cry. Gaara felt the sudden urge to murder the Fire King. It didn't matter if he was stronger than him. Gaara needed to show the King that Hinata should not be treated this way. She is too pure and innocent to be hurt this way. King or no King, I will make you pay for hurting her. Gaara laid his head on hers as she cried. He enjoyed her presence immensely. She was soft and smelled divine, but she was hurting. If she wanted, he will be her rock and keep her afloat.
He didn't know how long they were both embracing, but the sun was high in the sky, warming the winter weather a bit. Hinata had stopped crying violently, only a couple of sniffles here and there were heard.
Hinata was in a daze as she laid her head on Gaara's chest. Her eyes were undoubtedly red and puffy. She felt her cheeks blush, she could not believe that she broke-down in front of Gaara. She snuggled her head into his chest and she felt Gaara's hold on her tighten. You are the best friend I could ever ask for, Gaara. After a few moments of silence, Hinata unwrapped her arms from Gaara's shoulders and she pulled herself away. Gaara gingerly let her go. He already missed the warmth and softness she provided. Hinata sat in front of him, her red face looking at the lump of red cloth on her lap.
Hinata softly held the scarf she made for Gaara. She loved her friend very much and she put her soul and feelings into this. "G-Gaara-kun, I-I m-made this for... y-you." She stuttered out to her companion. She briefly looked up as she handed him her creation.
Gaara looked stunned at the cloth, S-She made me something? Gaara almost didn't want to touch it because he feared that he would taint the delicate cloth with his impurities. But Gaara knew that Hinata would be heartbroken if he did not accept her gift, and there will be no way that he will hurt her. Gaara slowly reached for the cloth. His fingertips tingled as soon as he felt it. He could feel Hinata's essence in the scarf. He could feel her hard-work, her care, her loyalty, her love, and her friendship. Gaara swallowed thickly, he always knew that she did not love him like how he loved her, and this scarf was just another piece of evidence. He wanted to be angry, but the other emotions that imbedded the scarf quelled his bitter feelings. He softly picked it up from her hands and brought it to him. He unwrapped the cloth and it turned out to be a red scarf. It was perfect for the cold weather. Gaara smiled softly, she was always so thoughtful. He wrapped it around his neck. It was the warmest and softest thing that had ever graced his skin.
Hinata peeked over to Gaara as he wrapped it around his neck, "D-Do y-you like it?" She gently asked.
Gaara gave her a warm look, "I love it. Thank you."
Hinata beamed at his response. It warmed her cold soul to hear those words. Hinata blushed at the thought of her bawling like an infant in his arms previously. "G-Gaara-kun, I-I'm sorry that I j-jumped you like that when I was c-crying." Hinata said.
Gaara looked at her bowed head, he moved his hand to cup her chin and raised her head to look at him. She had an adorable surprised face and he felt his heart thump rapidly. She was too beautiful for her own good. Gaara gently shook his head, "I am your friend, Hinata-sama. I will be here for you in the good and bad times. There is no need to apologize."
Hinata jumped back in his arms, "G-Gaara, you are my dear friend. T-Thank y-you. I cannot express how happy that makes me."
Gaara chuckled at Hinata's childish behavior. He patted her head softly and Hinata hummed happily. She quickly let him go and stood up from the floor. She looked around her room and she sighed sadly. She wanted to cry again, but she had no more tears to give. Hinata raised an arm to her chest, as she sadly looked at the room. She will never see this beautiful room ever again.
Gaara stood up as well, "Hinata-sama, is something wrong?"
Hinata looked at him with sad eyes, and she nodded. "G-Gaara-kun, I h-have been told to l-leave. The King and the new Princess Karin have decided that I should g-go."
Gaara once again felt anger and hate towards the King. No matter, I will get my revenge on you King Naruto. Hinata loved you and you let her go. Gaara felt the tingle of hope in his heart. If you do not want her then I will take her.
"Gaara-kun, w-would it be much trouble to ask for your help? I need to gather my belongings." Hinata softly asked him. He looked at her sad white orbs, I may not be able to kill you Naruto, but I will vow to at least punch your face in.
Gaara nodded at Hinata's request. In less than a half-hour, Hinata and him finished packing up all her belongings.
Hinata let out a small laugh, "I always forget that I do not have many possessions."
"There is no shame in that, Hinata. Material items are just a hassle." Gaara replied.
Hinata smiled at her friend, "G-Gaara-kun, there is one last thing I must do. Please wait for me here, I will be back quickly."
Gaara looked at her curiously but nodded anyway.
Hinata quickly left her room and rushed to her last destination. She quickly opened Naruto's bedroom door. His musky smell invaded her senses as she walked in. How long has it been since we have been in each other's presence? She saw his bed and remembered the distant memory of her cuddling with Naruto. She remembered the warmth and peace that caressed her soul as she held Naruto. She slowly traced the sheets of his bed and sighed sadly. She would have one day shared a bed with him. A painful sob got caught in her throat. Hinata raised her left hand and slowly pulled the two rings that Naruto gave her. Another pang went through her as she remembered the day. Hinata's eyes stung with unshed tears, she grasped the rings tightly in her hand. A wave of anger swept through her and she gasped at the foreign feeling. Naruto, you never loved me. You lied to me. Y-You led me to b-believe in you. Hinata angrily wiped the tears that were forming. He had asked her to leave and so it shall be. She uncurled her hand and looked at the rings. This will be her last time to see such beautiful jewelry. She sighed again, and she placed the rings on the bed. She walked out of the room and closed the door. She rested tiredly on the closed door. This took more energy than I thought it would. Hinata took slow breaths to calm her aching heart. She needed to leave before Naruto came back. She knew that she would not be able to live if he told her to leave.
Hinata rushed to her room, she wanted to escape this cursed palace. When she opened her door, Gaara was still standing there waiting for her. She ran to him and wrapped her arms around him. She always felt calmer when Gaara embraced her. He was able to soothe the constant ache, even if it was for a moment.
"Shall we leave Hinata-sama?" Gaara softly asked her as he pat her head.
Hinata nodded and separated herself from Gaara. She gathered a small parcel and Gaara gathered the larger one. They slowly walked to the exit of the palace.
"Do you not want to say goodbye to your friends?" Gaara asked.
Hinata bit her lip. She wanted to say her farewells, but she did not want to see their faces of pity. She didn't want people to feel sorry for her because it made her feel weak. She shook her head at Gaara's question.
Gaara nodded in acknowledgement. This place only hurt his most precious friend.
Surprisingly, there was no one in the hallway and they had no interruptions except when they reached the exit. One of the guards was not letting them leave.
"I apologize Princess, but the King has not authorized your departure. I am not allowed to let you leave the castle." The guard told her.
Hinata's heart ached and she looked sadly to the guard. "P-Please, I-I w-will not be able to face h-him w-when he tells me that I-I n-need to l-leave."
The guard could feel the utter desperation and sadness in her words, but the King's orders were the King's orders. He was about to send her back, but a new voice spoke.
"Let her leave. Naruto already picked me as his bride. She is no longer needed here. Save the King the trouble of confronting the poor girl." Princess Karin told the guard as she walked towards them.
The guard looked at her with an analytical look, he then softened his look as he saw the distraught princess. He sighed, Poor girl, she does not need any more pain.
The guard moved back to his original position by the exit, "As you wish Princess Karin." Hinata smiled faintly, and she looked back at Karin. "T-Thank y-you for being k-kind." Princess Karin rolled her eyes and waved her hand dismissively, "Yeah, yeah just go already." Princess Karin then walked away.
Gaara growled at Karin's behavior toward Hinata. A soft hand pulled back his attention. Hinata placed her hand on his and pulled him to the exit. "D-Don't be angry Gaara-kun, she will be the Queen of Fire and she has other d-duties to get to. Let us go." Hinata offered him a small smile that didn't reach her eyes. Gaara nodded his head and followed her out.
The chilly weather of the season made Gaara appreciate more the scarf that Hinata knit him. Hinata and him finally reached the exit of the palace. Hinata looked around the kingdom. Hinata mentally slapped herself. How am I going to return home?
Gaara finally understood the dilemma that was stressing his Princess.
"Hinata-sama, we should get a carriage to transport us to the harbor to catch a boat to the Land of Waves." Gaara told her.
Hinata smiled at his plan, but then she looked solemnly down to her feet. "G-Gaara-kun, I am no longer a bride-to-be and I am no longer in need of an aid. You were only paid for the competition. Since I am no longer in the…" Hinata was hushed by Gaara patting her head softly.
"Hinata-sama, I will protect you and help you because I am your friend. The competition had no influence on me being by your side." Gaara told her.
Hinata looked up at him with a bright smile, "Thank you so much, Gaara-kun. I-I don't have much money to pay you for your generosity, b-but I will think of some way to pay you back for everything you have done for me. I promise."
Gaara chuckled, "Being by your side and seeing you smile is enough payment for me, do not worry yourself."
Hinata shook her head, "I will work hard and pay back every penny, Gaara-kun. It does not matter how long it will take."
Gaara felt his heart lurched at her promise, I do not need the money, yet she still wants to re-pay me. I love you, Hinata.
Gaara pet her head again and walked to one of the carriages.
Hinata blushed at Gaara's affection and she followed behind him.
They were both seated inside the carriage, and she was grateful that the walls were able to diminish the cold from the winds raging outside. She huddled herself closer into her cloak. The rock and dirt road created a very bumpy ride for the two passengers. At some points, there would be a sudden dip that made Hinata fly out of her seat. Gaara chuckled at Hinata's clumsiness and Hinata managed to give him a playful glare.
Another hard bump made Hinata fly up.
"OH NO! WE ARE GOING TO CRASH!" Hinata heard the driver say. She quickly looked at Gaara, her eyes widened in fear. The carriage was shaking vigorously, and the horse was howling.
Hinata felt the carriage start to dip forward, and she held onto the walls of the carriage to keep her as upright as possible. She closed her eyes as she awaited her demise and she mentally prayed for the safety of Gaara. If anyone deserved to live, he deserves this chance.
For a moment, the trembling of the carriage seized. She opened her eyes to look out of the window. She saw that they were suspended in the air. She then immediately closed her eyes again. Ah, so I will die by plunging to my death. The sudden plummet made her let out a piercing scream. Her eyes were closed tightly awaiting the sudden pain, but there was none. Her heart felt as if it wanted to come out of her chest. Her breaths were heavy, and she felt a grainy substance on her waist. What? Hinata opened her eyes and she looked down. There was a sand arm wrapped around her. Where did this come from? Hinata then realized that she was no longer in the carriage, she was on the forest floor. Hinata followed the sand arm to try to see where it was coming from. Suddenly, a loud thud landed next to her. Hinata gasped, it was the horse and the driver. They were both encased in a sand arm like hers. Another thud landed in front of her. Gaara! She thought worriedly as she saw her friend. The sand arm that encased her dissolved as she moved towards her friend.
Gaara laid face down completely exhausted. Damn, I used too much chakra at once; but Hinata is alive and that is all that matters. Gaara thought happily as he felt his eyes slowly could feel himself passing out and as much as he tried to fight it, the chakra exhaustion was hitting him quickly. He felt soft hands on his face and he smiled as he recognized that it was Hinata. He managed to hear her say his name before passing out.
"Gaara, please wake up. I need to know if you are okay." Hinata gently told him as she caressed his face. She looked over Gaara, but there was no obvious sign of injury. It almost looked as if he was sleeping. Hinata looked worriedly at her surroundings, they were stuck in a snowy forest and it was rapidly turning to dusk. She knew that they wouldn't be able to stay here since they would freeze during this winter weather. She needed to find a way to get back into town. Her eyes turned to the driver and his horse. She stood up from her crouching position beside Gaara and walked toward the driver.
"Sir, would it be too much trouble to ask for…" She began until the driver yelled at her.
"LEAVE WITCH! YOU AND YOUR DEMON ARE EVIL!" The driver exclaimed as he got onto his horse and sped away.
Hinata felt her shock ease away and in its place was anger. Gaara is not a demon! Hinata huffed, she did not like how she was getting angry all out of a sudden. Hinata sighed and shook her head. I have more important things to worry about than my newfound emotions. She walked back to Gaara and rolled him over so that he laid on his back. She raised his head and laid it on her lap. She sighed sadly. How are we going to get out of here Gaara? You were always the one who had the best ideas. Hinata could feel the chill of the air begin to envelop her. I need to at least start a fire or something. Hinata looked around her surroundings again; she didn't have a single clue how to begin a fire. I need to try. I need to do this.
She unwrapped her scarf from her neck and folded it. She gently lifted Gaara's head from her lap and laid his head on the folded scarf as a make-shift pillow. Hinata stood up and warily looked around the forest.
First, we must gather wood. Hinata moved toward the forest edge and started to gather any piece of wood that she laid her eyes on. She accumulated a medium pile of wood beside Gaara. She slowly sat and started to make a makeshift campfire. She had heard that if you rub two sticks together that it would create fire. She picked up two sticks and started rubbing them together. After a couple of minutes, there was still no progress in her fire. Her hands were already chaffing, but she needed to get a fire started for Gaara and herself. She began again. Hinata felt the wood pierce into her palm but she continued. Gaara needed her and she would not disappoint. She felt the sting of tears as the pain increased, but she dared not to stop.
"You are pathetic." A voice said.
Hinata gasped at the sudden intrusion, and she looked up to where she heard the voice.
At the edge of the forest stood a tall man, with jet black hair and eyes. He was wearing a long black coat. She could feel the immense power that he held, and this put her on guard. She slowly moved in front of Gaara to block him from the man.
The man chuckled, "If I wanted to kill you, I would have already done it."
Hinata eyed him suspiciously and did not respond.
The man moved forward, and Hinata stood up and got into a familiar battle stance that Kiba taught her.
The man raised his eyebrow, this woman was strange, but he felt the compulsion to get closer. Those white eyes were beckoning him. They reminded him of her.
The man stopped moving forward, and chuckled. This girl was amusing him, and he almost wanted to laugh at the thought. No girl had ever captivated his attention like this since his first love.
"Your stance is laughable. If you want to protect your lover, then you are doing a poor job at that." He told her with a slight glare.
Hinata blushed at the man's words. "H-He is n-not my l-lover." Hinata squeaked out.
The man's eyes sparkled at her words. Music to my ears. "Hn." He replied. He continued his approach forward. He wanted to see what she was capable of.
Hinata stiffened at the man's approach, I need to protect Gaara with everything I have. When the man was five steps away, she rushed to him with one arm raised, ready to punch him.
Hinata tripped, as she reached where the man once stood. H-He d-disappeared, b-but he was just here! Suddenly, the air left her as she was pushed into a tree. The man held her wrists above her head and his chest was pressed forcefully against hers. She was successfully trapped. Hinata blushed at the man's closeness. She could feel herself become faint as his warmth and power trampled her senses. She could not deny that this intimate position was messing with her senses.
With a bit of bravery, she looked up to see the man's face.
She felt herself blush harder, and her heart was beating rapidly. She tried to calm herself by breathing through her mouth, and it created a more intimate atmosphere. His face was very close to hers and she could feel his warm breath on her face. H-He is very handsome. Hinata gulped and she felt a slight ache in hear head. W-Why does this seem f-familiar?
The man was in a similar daze. When he first trapped her, he believed that she would be a wild animal. He believed that she would scratch or bite him. He didn't expect this. The softness of her flesh against his hard features felt wonderous. The smell of her had his mind spinning as if her smell alone reignited a flame he thought no longer existed. As he looked down at her, he could see the tomato red blush. Her small breaths concentrated his attention on her lips. His genuine curiosity was the only thing that kept him from ravaging her. Who is she? He pressed his chest closer to her and it earned him a delightful gasp. "What's your name?" He huskily whispered out. "H-Hinata." She breathlessly replied. He could see her eyes were half-lidded indicating that she also felt the intimacy that they were both trapped in. "Sasuke." He told her as he moved his head to her ear. He felt her shiver against him and he grasped her wrists tighter, earning him a squeak. He was intoxicated by her smell of lavender. With his other hand, he gently touched her cheek. "S-Sasuke!" She squeaked out at the sudden touch.
Sasuke's eyes went back to her lips, he placed his lips over hers. The instant electrifying feeling shot through them. Her lips were smooth and plump, and this made him push harder into the kiss. Hinata's eyes were wide at the sudden kiss, but it felt good. It sent a tingle throughout her body and it felt as if it was some forbidden pleasure from a distant past. She felt her eyes slowly close, and she gently pushed into the kiss to deepen it. Sasuke smirked as he felt her kiss back. He hadn't felt this alive in years and the kiss was invoking new feelings he never knew he had. As their kiss continued, it began to get more heated. Sasuke's free hand moved to her hip and Hinata opened her mouth in surprise. This gave Sasuke the chance to explore her mouth with his tongue. He felt Hinata moan into the kiss. Sasuke hummed in pleasure and he unconsciously let go of her wrists while she wrapped her arms around his neck.
Hinata blushed at the kiss they were having. It was shocking her senses. Her tongue shyly played with his. She wanted to stop this wonton attitude, but it felt too good. Hinata felt Sasuke's hands lift her legs from the ground, and she wrapped her legs around his waist. They were even closer than before. Sasuke separated his lips from hers and moved to kiss her neck. Hinata moaned out at the sudden contact. She squirmed in his arms and Sasuke grunted. She was pressing delightfully into his hips. He stopped his advances on her, and he rested his head on her chest. He felt as if his whole body was struck with lightning. His whole body tingled. He felt as if he was drained from chakra. Sasuke chuckled at the thought of this woman draining his chakra with those wonderful kisses of hers. I would gladly die of chakra exhaustion if that was the case.
Hinata laid her head on Sasuke's, she felt extremely tired. The blush that covered her face was hard as ever and it was starting to hurt. Hinata took some calming breaths and mentally thanked Sasuke for halting his touches. She was not sure if she would have been able to stay conscious through it if it continued. She let her head fall back to the tree trunk. The tremendous headache she now registered was taking its toll on her.
After a couple of moments, she finally cleared her head enough to notice that it was dark, and the cold was invading her. Hinata pushed herself back a bit from Sasuke, "S-Sasuke, i-it is d-dark and…" She was once again being kissed by Sasuke, but it was a quick peck than the passionate one they shared moments before. Hinata blushed at his forwardness, she unwrapped her legs from around him as he placed her back on the floor. Hinata held the tree behind her, her legs were still wobbly. "Let's go." Sasuke told her as he walked deeper into the forest. Hinata stood there watching him, "B-But G-Gaara…" She told him. Sasuke turned his face to look at her and then looked at the body of Gaara on the floor. Sasuke glared intensely at him, he then looked at Hinata. "Is he your lover?" He asked her, a small hint of jealousy lacing his question. Hinata vigorously shook her head, "H-He is m-my friend. H-He s-saves me and p-protects me."
"Hn."
Sasuke walked toward Gaara and effortlessly picked him up and placed him over his shoulder. He then continued to walk into the forest. "Follow." He told Hinata. Hinata nodded and wobbled to him, "T-Thank you, S-Sasuke." She told him.
"Hn."
They walked for about fifteen minutes, until they reached a small cottage. Hinata's eyes widened, the place was clearly not maintained. There was long grass and there were weeds everywhere. What surprised her the most was the lack of snow or cold weather when they reached the perimeter of the cottage. "There is a barrier that keeps the temperature constant. I do not appreciate the cold." Sasuke told her as they approached the door of the cottage. Hinata looked around the cottage perimeter in awe. Hinata saw a small unattended garden at the far side of the cottage. She mentally told herself that she would take care of it if she ever had the chance. Sasuke opened the door and with a quick hand movement the cottage lit up. Torches were placed everywhere that gave the cottage a warmer feel. Hinata sighed in content. The coldness was finally leaving her body. Sasuke placed Gaara on a couch. Hinata rushed to Gaara, and she took off her coat and wrapped Gaara in it. She felt his skin and it was ice cold, fortunately he was still alive. Hopefully, her coat would help warm him up. She gently brushed his hair to the side and caressed his cold cheek with her warm hand. She wished that she could give him some of her warmth.
She heard a small growl, and she looked behind and saw Sasuke giving her a glare. He pulled her towards him. She was pressed tightly into him and she felt her cheeks warm up. "You can only touch me like that." He murmured to her. His face was buried in her hair and she felt her hair tickle her neck. "I-I don't understand." She told him. Sasuke moved his face to hers, and she felt the blush grow. In better lighting, she realized that Sasuke was even more handsome. "I don't like it when you touch other men. You will only touch me." He told her. His voice was very authoritative and held no room to argue. Hinata nodded, she did not want to upset Sasuke since he was being very generous to her and Gaara. "Good." Sasuke softly told her. He then gave her kiss and Hinata pushed softly into the kiss. She already knew that his kisses were becoming addicting to her and this worried her. The last time someone's kisses had her this way was with Naru- No! Don't think of him. Hinata pulled away from Sasuke, blushing and looking shyly at his chest.
Sasuke let her go and he walked towards Gaara. He had felt a familiar power from the red head. Interesting, he has a tailed beast just like the Dobe. Although, much weaker. Hinata stood next to him, as she looked at Gaara. She tentatively reached out to him until Sasuke growled. Hinata eeped and retracted her hand. "S-Sorry, I-I am just w-worried for him. G-Gaara p-passed out after he s-saved me." Hinata told Sasuke sadly. Sasuke rolled his eyes at the worried girl, "It is just chakra exhaustion. He just needs to rest." Hinata was about to respond, but a loud grumble escaped her. She blushed heavily, as she looked at her stomach.
Sasuke smirked down to her, she was such an innocent thing. His eyes darkened as he remembered her being wrapped around him, Not that innocent. He wanted to kiss her again, but the loud grumble was heard again. Sasuke rolled his eyes, he at least needed to feed the girl that captivated his attention. "Come." Sasuke told her as he walked away.
Hinata blushed and she followed him after giving Gaara a glance over. Sasuke led her to a kitchen. Sasuke inwardly cringed at the state the kitchen was in, Great way to show her what a slob you are. Hinata gasped as she saw the mess. Her feet were sticking to the floor in some parts. "Um… S-Sasuke, I-I could c-clean your k-kitchen t-tomorrow if you wouldn't mind." She told him. "I-It's the least I could do for your g-generosity."
"Hn." Sasuke moved to sit at the small table that was in the kitchen. His head rested on his hand and he had his eyes closed. Hinata stood awkwardly in the kitchen. Is he giving me permission to use the kitchen? Hinata cautiously moved to open a cupboard, she opened it and she was met with a nauseous smell. She quickly closed it and pinched her nose. She heard Sasuke chuckle and she glared at him.
He smirked at her innocent glare. She looks as threatening as a bunny. Hinata rolled her eyes at his smirk, and Hinata felt herself become self-conscious. This man was making her experience feelings that she never expressed before. She did not recall the last time she rolled her eyes at someone.
Hinata sighed, her stomach grumbled out again. She did not want to open another cupboard in fear of what it contained. She then remembered the small garden in the front of the cottage.
"S-Sasuke?"
Sasuke locked his eyes to hers, giving her a silent motion to continue.
Hinata shuffled and looked away from Sasuke, "C-Could I go o-outside to the g-garden? I-I could gather some v-veggies."
Sasuke stood up from the table, "Let's go."
Hinata smiled and followed him outside. Hinata walked towards the garden. When she managed to reach the garden, she frowned. She did not have enough lighting to see what crops there were and which ones would be good to pick.
Without hesitation, Sasuke raised his hand and created a ball of fire on his palm. Hinata looked at him in surprise and awe. That is amazing! Hinata reached out to touch it, but Sasuke moved it away. A scowl on his face, "Are you stupid? This is fire. It will burn you." Hinata blushed and looked away from Sasuke. She frowned at his lecture. He made her feel like a child. She crossed her arms in front of her.
Sasuke rolled his eyes at her childish behavior. With his other hand he slightly pushed her shoulder. "Are you going to pick vegetables or not? I don't like wasting my time."
Hinata huffed again at Sasuke's parental attitude. She still refused to look at him. "I am not a child." She mumbled out.
Sasuke smirked at her little attitude. He moved behind her, and he wrapped his free arm around her waist. He let his head fall to her neck, "Believe me, I know you aren't a child." He placed a small kiss on her neck.
Hinata eeped and softly pushed his face away from her. She untangled his arm from her waist and she kneeled to look at the garden. She still refused to look at him, but Sasuke bet his life that she was blushing. Without any more distractions, she picked a mix of potatoes, carrots, cabbages, and tomatoes.
Hinata stood up with her armful of veggies and walked back to the cottage with Sasuke trailing behind her. He let the fire in his hand die out as they walked back.
Before entering the cottage, Hinata stopped. Sasuke raised his eyebrow at her. She turned around to face him, an adorable blush and pout on her face. Damn, why is she so kissable?
"I-I'm sorry for b-behaving l-like that Sasuke-kun. It has been only recently that I have been experiencing new emotions. I-I d-don't remember being s-stubborn before." She gently told him.
Sasuke smirked and he walked towards her. He let one of his hands caress her cheek. He cupped her cheek and pulled her face towards his. He gave her a small kiss. Hinata blushed and kissed him back. He separated his lips from hers and stepped back. Hinata's eyes fluttered open and with a blushing face she turned back around to open the cottage door. That was the best way to resolve a dispute. She thought as she walked into the cottage.
Hinata quickly went to look over Gaara, he was still sleeping. After making sure he was alive and well, she moved to the kitchen to get started on a warm vegetable stew. She managed to find some herbs on a shelf. She cut the vegetables with the help of her chakra. She appreciated that the small cottage had indoor plumbing and there was running water. She loaded a cauldron with water and placed it over the fire that Sasuke lit up for her. Sasuke told her that he was going to shower before leaving her alone in the kitchen. Hinata placed all her veggies in the cauldron and added the appropriate seasonings to make the soup edible and delicious. After preparing the soup, she decided to at least clean some parts of the kitchen. It will save her time and effort for tomorrow.
The smell of the soup was warming up the home and Hinata could not wait to eat. Her stomach was begging for nourishment. She had managed to clean the floor and some cabinets before the stew started boiling. She went over to the soup and carefully tasted it. She hummed happily to herself. The vegetable soup was delicious. She wanted nothing more than to eat, but she was a guest in this house. She decided to wait for Sasuke. After a couple of minutes of waiting, she decided to go call him. She could not wait for him and hopefully, he would understand. She followed the same path that Sasuke used when he left to go shower. Down a short hallway, was a door. She assumed that was where Sasuke was. She walked over to the door and proceeded to knock on the door. Her hand was suspended in a knocking position when the door opened.
Hinata was met with a freshly showered Sasuke in a plain gray shirt and black pants. Hinata gulped as she looked at Sasuke. Why does he have to be so handsome? Hinata felt her cheeks redden and she felt the urge to touch him with her raised hand. As the seconds ticked by, she had an internal battle with herself. She really wanted to touch him. But, how can I? T-That is too forward! B-but he did say that I was only allowed to touch him… Hinata softly let her hand fall onto Sasuke's chest. His black eyes bore into her pearly white-lavender ones with such intensity. Hinata was getting herself lost in his gaze. It was like getting sucked into a dark hole and only him and her were there. He has such a muscular torso. Hinata mentally swooned. Hinata then softly circled his chest. Sasuke clenched his fist. Her touch was maddening. He was on the verge to drag her into his room, but then a loud grumble disrupted the atmosphere. He gave her a confused look, "Have you still not eaten?"
Hinata withdrew her hand and held her stomach and shook her head, "N-Not yet, I-I was waiting for y-you." Sasuke smirked at her cute behavior and hospitality. He jerked his head forward, "Let's go." Hinata shyly smiled. She turned away and started walking back to the kitchen. Sasuke was walking behind since the hallway was too narrow for them to walk side by side. He did not mind, from his position he was able to see her backside and the way she swayed. He clenched his fist. She probably doesn't even do this on purpose. Sasuke ran a shaky hand through his damp hair. She is going to drive me insane. Sasuke then once again saw her hips sway, I was always crazy anyway.
Sasuke could smell the soup as they neared the kitchen. His stomach was also growling, and he just took notice that he hadn't eaten anything all day. When they entered the kitchen, he went to the cupboard to gather some bowls, spoons, and cups. Hinata went to check the soup. Sasuke slid the bowls to her and Hinata gave him a smile at his gesture. It made Sasuke's heart flutter to see such a sincere and sweet smile. Hinata carefully filled the bowls with the soup. Sasuke poured water into the cups and he took them to the table. He then sat on the table waiting for Hinata to gather the food. In only a few moments, Hinata placed two steaming bowls on the table and she sat in front of Sasuke. They both ate in a comfortable silence.
Sasuke felt pleased to have a warm meal after a long day. Hinata smiled as she ate, she felt relieved as she ate to appease her hunger. After some time, Sasuke moved to get more soup while Hinata was still on her first bowl. After their dinner, Hinata managed to eat two bowls while Sasuke ate 4. "I will go hunting tomorrow to gather some meat for the stew." Sasuke told her.
Hinata smiled, "I would like that. We could have a more filling lunch and dinner. T-Thank you, Sasuke-kun."
Sasuke picked up the plates from the table and proceeded to wash them. "S-Sasuke-kun, you do not need to do that. I-I can do it." Hinata told him as she rushed to the sink to take over.
Sasuke gently pushed her to the side, "I'll do it. You cooked." Hinata did not listen and continued to struggle to reach the plates. Sasuke smirked, she was pressing herself into his back and he was able to feel her curves. Sasuke quickly finished and turned around to face his beautiful guest. Hinata quickly stopped her struggle as soon as Sasuke turned around. She felt herself being picked up and she yelped in surprise. Sasuke placed her on the counter. His body was in between her legs and his arms were on each side of her. Hinata blushed at the intimate position they were in. Sasuke looked up at her and connected his eyes to hers. Hinata shyly wrapped her arms around his neck, pulling him closer to her. His head was resting on her chest and she lowered her head to kiss him to stop herself from thinking of their position. Hinata moaned as Sasuke pulled her towards him, his hands on her hips. Hinata wrapped her legs tightly around Sasuke as their make-out intensified. She could feel his hands trace upwards and Hinata kissed him harder. She softly nibbled his lips as his warmth surrounded her.
Suddenly, the warmth disappeared and so did his lips. She felt the sandy feeling on her skin. She opened her eyes to see that she was in a sand arm again. Gaara was standing in front of her. Hinata smiled happily to see that her friend was fine. Her smile quickly faltered when she noticed the intense atmosphere.
Sasuke and Gaara both looked calm, but she could sense the hostility underneath the eerily calm silence. Hinata treaded carefully to not start a war in the kitchen. "G-Gaara-kun, you may release me. Sasuke-kun will not hurt me. He has been very kind to us." Gaara gave her a quick glance, but the sand arm still held her in a tight hold. Gaara glared at Sasuke, "A little too kind." He said. Sasuke glared back, "What can I say? I am just that nice of a person." Hinata struggled against the sand arm, "P-Please Gaara-kun, let me go. I-I don't want you two to fight. P-Please." Hinata begged to Gaara. Gaara looked back at her and sighed. He let her go. As soon as she was let go, she rushed to him. She wanted to hug him, but she did not want to anger Sasuke. "Gaara-kun, you had me so w-worried. I-I thought you were h-hurt. S-Sasuke-kun helped me bring you here so that you could get some rest. I made dinner if you would like some. Hopefully, you will feel better after a warm meal. Let me take you back to the sofa so that you may rest, and I will bring you your soup." Hinata gently laid a hand on Gaara's arm and led him to the sofa before rushing back to the kitchen. As Hinata was pouring some soup in the bowl, she felt Sasuke pull her back and turned her around. "Hinata, did I not tell you not to touch other men? It displeases me." Sasuke growled out.
Hinata swallowed thickly, "B-But S-Sasuke-kun the way I-I t-touch y-you is different than the way I-I t-touch G-Gaara-kun." Sasuke smirked, "And how do you touch me?" He murmured softly. Hinata blushed, "W-Well, when I t-touch you I-I f-feel tingles and h-heat." Hinata stuttered out. Sasuke smiled a bit and hummed in pleasure. Sasuke touched a soft curl of her silky hair, his heart beat increased. "Um, Sasuke-kun I-I need to bring this soup to Gaara-kun." Sasuke kissed her lips again. He hated hearing another man's name leave her soft lips. He quickly pulled back and let her continue. Hinata was dazed and blushed at Sasuke's kisses. She quickly shuffled out of the kitchen towards her friend.
Hinata gently placed the soup on the table in front of Gaara. "Gaara-kun, here is your soup. It is very delicious. I made it myself." She smiled as she told him. Gaara eyed her suspiciously, "Why do you let him kiss you?" Hinata blushed at Gaara's question. "I-I d-don't know. I-It feels n-natural to kiss him." Hinata felt her blush deepen as she looked down on her lap. A small smile on her lips, "I-It feels g-good to kiss Sasuke-kun." Gaara continued to look at her, "Have you already forgotten about Na-…" Hinata snapped her head up to look at Gaara and she quickly shook her head, "Stop! Don't! He is just a painful memory." Hinata covered her face with her hands, "Gaara-kun, I wish I could explain to you what I feel, but this is new to me. I feel different. Ever since I met Sasuke-kun, I have been acting strangely. H-He brings out a new me. I have always been the sweet and kind girl; but now there is another side that I never knew existed. I can feel angry, annoyed, and strong." She whispered out the last the three words. She was afraid of these new changes. Gaara gave her a curious look, "Did he not make you feel that way?" Hinata shook her head softly, "No. With him, I felt like I was floating in the air. Everything was a sunny day. He was my first love and it was magical." Hinata sighed, "The fairy-tail ended, but now I am here discovering new things I would have never had the chance to."
Gaara picked up the soup from the table and took a quick bite. He savored the taste before continuing the conversation. "And this new guy changed you in less than a day?" Hinata blushed at the mention of Sasuke, "I-I don't think so. You-know-who ignored me and abandoned me. I did not let myself feel anger or resentment because I was just a choice. I was his choice. When he didn't choose me, I hid my anger from myself and wallowed in pity and sadness. But with Sasuke-kun, we both get to choose each other. I feel this newfound freedom of being able to express myself. I am not just a proper princess, but a person that can think and feel. Sasuke-kun just helped push me to this realization." Hinata blushed at the sudden proclamation she made. She hoped that Sasuke was not hearing her.
Gaara was able to relate to her new-found freedom. He felt the same when he first met her. When she proposed that they be friends, he knew that he was no longer just a thing, but a person. However, this did not mean that he had to like this new guy.
"I still don't like him." Gaara told her.
Hinata giggled, "He is a good person, Gaara-kun."
"What happens to our journey back to your homeland?" Gaara asked her, ignoring her previous statement about Sasuke.
Hinata paused in thought, I never thought about that. What do I do? I could stay here with Sasuke-kun, but would he like that? Hinata frowned at the thought of not being able to kiss Sasuke anymore. We already kissed, does this mean that he is courting me? If so, then what does that mean? Will he marry me? Hinata blushed at the thought of marrying Sasuke. He will make a handsome husband. Hinata then frowned again, But what about my homeland? I am the Princess of the Land of Waves. I cannot abandon my people. Would Sasuke still want me if he knew I was princess?
Hinata sighed sadly, "I don't know Gaara-kun. My life always needs to get complicated." Hinata giggled out. Gaara gave her a small smile of encouragement. He had finished eating his bowl of soup. "Let me get you another bowl." Hinata picked up the bowl and walked to the kitchen, "Thank you." She heard Gaara tell her. As she entered the kitchen, she saw Sasuke in the same spot that she left him in. She gave him a curious glance; Did he hear anything?
"Where is your homeland?" He asked her as she walked to the cauldron to pour more soup into the bowl. Hinata smiled a bit, he was listening to her. "The Land of Waves. I am one of their princesses'." Sasuke's eyes widened a bit, A princess? Interesting. "As a fellow commoner, I could not let you travel the roads to the Land of Waves during winter, Princess." Sasuke told her as he pulled one of her hands to kiss. Hinata blushed at Sasuke's playfulness. She quickly retracted her hand back, "You do not need to worry yourself over me Sasuke-kun." Sasuke snort, "Hinata, I don't care that you are a princess or not. I wouldn't let you travel during this winter season." Hinata gave him a curious look, "Why do you do this for me?" Sasuke cupped her chin and pulled her into a kiss. Hinata pushed more into the kiss, she loved the tingles that traveled up her spine when they kissed. Sasuke pulled away, his breathing more haggard than usual. "I think you know why." He told her with a raspy voice. Hinata hummed in pleasure. She could not deny that there were some strong feelings between them. Hinata moved back and walked back to Gaara.
She gave him his bowl, "Thank you, Hinata." Hinata smiled, "You're welcome." Hinata sat on the table in front of Gaara. "I talked to Sasuke, and he let us stay with him until the winter season ends. Then you and I can continue to the Land of Waves, that is if you do not mind staying."
Gaara gave her a small smile, "I will stay as long as you want me to stay." Hinata smiled brightly at her friend and began to move to hug him, but she remembered Sasuke's rule of touching. But the hug that she would give Gaara would be different than a hug she would give Sasuke. Hinata concluded that she was in the clear and proceeded to hug Gaara. "You are a true friend Gaara, thank you." Gaara leaned gently into her hug. A small growl broke the hug, Hinata blushed while Gaara glared at the intruder.
"Gaara-kun do you want any more soup?" She asked her friend.
Gaara took his eyes from Sasuke and looked back at Hinata, he gently shook his head. "No thank you, I will just rest now. I am still exhausted from earlier." Hinata smiled gently to her friend, "Of course, let me go take the dishes to the kitchen." Hinata shuffled to the kitchen making sure not to pay attention to the slightly angered man. As soon as she finished the dishes she was pulled into Sasuke's arms, "Princess, you love to test my patience." Sasuke growled out. Hinata blushed, her hands rested on Sasuke's chest and she gently traced small shapes. "S-Sasuke-kun, I-I already told you. I-I touch you differently." Hinata then reach up and brushed her lips on his, "Don't be mad, please." She whispered. Sasuke tightened his hold on her and pressed their lips together. Hinata pulled away, a beautiful and dazed look on her face. "S-Sasuke, d-do you have any extra blankets for G-Gaara and I?" She asked breathlessly. He pressed his lips gently on hers. "I may have a couple…" He pecked her lips again before separating himself from her. He moved away and walked through the doorway leading to his room. Hinata decided to wait with Gaara.
She sat at the table again, but this time she was watching Gaara sleep. A soft lump was dumped on her lap, she took the blanket and draped it over Gaara. She softly brushed his hair away from his face and stepped back to admire her bed-tucking skills. It then occurred to her. Where will I sleep?
Sasuke moved behind Hinata and wrapped his arms around her, "Now that the baby is asleep, how about you and I go to bed?" He whispered into her ear. Hinata shivered at the husky tone he was using. She wanted to melt into his arms. "B-But S-Sasuke-kun we can't do that." She told him. A strong blush on her face as she felt Sasuke kiss her neck softly. "I don't bite." He whispered. He then nipped her earlobe, Hinata gasped. "Unless you want me to." Hinata felt her mind seize from thinking, all she could think about was him. Her senses were on a Sasuke override. "S-Sasuke-kun, I-I can't sleep with a-another m-male unless I-I'm married." Sasuke hummed as he kissed behind her ear, "Then marry me Hinata."
Hinata gasped and she pulled out of Sasuke's hold. "Sasuke-kun, you are not serious." She told him, a hint of pain in her voice. She could not believe that Sasuke would play with her like that.
Sasuke frowned at her reaction, he sighed anxiously as he combed his hair. He was trying to clear his mind from the beauty in front him. He wanted to hit himself for falling for his lustful desires. He was new to these emotions and they were taking over his inhibitions. She was a drug that he could not get enough of. He didn't really want to marry her since they just met, but even then, he could not deny that he would not mind having her as his wife. He felt his heart painfully throb to a time where he also fell in love by a single glance. The little girl with dark-blue hair and white eyes like the moon. He fell in love with her the moment they saw each other, and they never talked before. Sasuke mentally frowned, Do I just fall in love easily? Sasuke quickly dismissed the idea, he had many women who threw themselves at him, but no woman could ever capture his attention. Sasuke looked at Hinata, maybe he just had a thing for dark-haired and white-eyed women.
"I-I think I will just sleep here with Gaara-kun." She said.
Sasuke immediately frowned, burning jealousy entering his mind. "No. Take my bed. I will sleep out here."
Sasuke quickly went to his room to gather a pillow and a blanket. He then laid them out before the fireplace in front of the couch. He lit the fireplace, making the room feel warmer. "My room is ready for you." He told her as he settled down on the floor.
Hinata eyed him curiously, "Sasuke-kun, I do not want you to forfeit your bed for me. Gaara-kun and I will leave tomo-…" "Forget about it, Hinata. I don't mind sleeping here." Hinata gave him a soft smile, she walked towards him and kneeled beside him. She placed a soft kiss on his lips and gave him a hug. "Thank you, Sasuke-kun."
Sasuke felt his heart soar at her words. Her body was warm and inviting, and he felt a twinge of regret for not confirming to marry her.
"Goodnight, Sasuke-kun."
"Goodnight, Hinata-hime."