The courtyard was silent except for the sounds of nature. Hinata sat upon a carved stone bench, staring at the air before her. She was so consumed by her thoughts, she didn't notice someone sit next to her.

"Hinata," Neji said softly, watching her start before turning to him.

"Oh, Neji, when did you return from your mission?"

"Just an hour ago," he replied, head cocked as he studied her. "Naruto has returned."

With tight lips, she turned away. "I know."

"Hanabi told me that you have been sitting out here since you came home." Neji moved to kneel before her and she had no choice but to look at him. "Hinata, are you alright?"

Eyes troubled, she attempted to smile.

"It's been almost three years, Neji," she said. "I thought I would be over that academy crush by now. But I saw him today and I couldn't breathe. I know I've moved on, but I don't seem to be over him."

Taking her hands into his, Neji watched her closely.

"Tenten tells me that a girl never gets over her first…crush," he said, and Hinata could tell he was uncomfortable with the world. "I don't know much about it, but don't worry yourself. It seems natural."

A true smile over took the young woman's face and Neji was taken aback.

"Thank you, Neji," she said. "But may I ask why you suddenly seem to care so much about such an arbitrary thing as this?"

Blushing slightly, the jounin stood abruptly.

"I must report to uncle. I have yet to inform him that I have returned from my mission," he said as he attempted to make a hasty retreat.

Hinata reached out and grabbed his hand; despite Neji being an elite nin and more than able to get away, her gentle touch stayed him.

"I appreciate this, Neji," she said softly. "Please, tell me why I can."

A sigh escaped him when he realized he wasn't getting away without answering. Instead of avoiding it this time, he sat back beside her and gazed off into the courtyard.

"Your face hasn't had that expression in years. I hate seeing it on you."

Seeing that she seemed content with that for an answer, Neji stood once more. As he opened the door leading into the main house, he was stopped once more.

"Someday, will you tell me the real reason?"

Looking back at her, his breath caught. In the evening sun, she appeared so regal sitting there, so much like the noble woman she really was.

With softened eyes, he nodded simply and turned away.