Warnings: Rated M, NejixHina, Dark Theme's.

So this is something that has been in my mind for a while now, and if I don't get it out of my system then it's going to drive me crazy, and I really needed to post this chapter or else I would not have stopped and the chapter would have been huge lol, that's how much this idea is burning into my head.

Disclaimer: I do not own any of the characters mentioned, nor locations, the only thing I am responsible for is the creation of the fiction.

Enjoy!

Recent missions for all had come to a close, each and everyone who had returned from their mission were ordered by Tsunade to take some time off, the demands of the years on each of them had been higher than normal, and it was only fair that they receive what they deserve.

Two days had been given, they were unable to request a mission during this time, even if they felt themselves fit to continue.. Of course, if an emergency arose, each of them would would be active once more, but for now, they were to spend time relaxing in whatever way they see fit.

The only thing that ran through Sakura's mind upon returning from her mission was that of a soak, it was something she had been looking forward to, especially considering the mission had been three days long, and the news of time off certainly put her at ease, the thought of easing her tension over two days would be even better.

As soon as she slipped home she greeted her parents, grabbed fresh clothing, towels and anything else she wished to refresh herself with, and it took no time at all.. It took her even less time to arrive at the hot springs, slipping inside she prepared herself, leaving everything in her usual space within the shower room..

Clutching the towel loosely around herself she slid the door open and stepped out and into the welcoming warmth of the spring itself.. Pulling the door back to a close her green orbs caught onto a familiar face.

"Ino, When did you come back from your mission?"

Sakura questioned her casually, slipping herself in beside the blonde she left the question behind for a few moments as the water encased her in pure bliss, Ino had grinned, she could understand how she was feeling, she too had gone through the same motions as soon as she slipped into the water..

"I would say about an hour now, this was all I could think about, I feel like I have been thrown around I'm aching that much.."

A soft sigh pushed through as soon as she finished her reply, and Sakura cocked her head slightly.

"I thought you were on an escort duty."

Ino raised her brows and rolled her eyes.

"Well, I was to begin with, but there were complications and it ended up being a search party, then we ended up with escorting the same person we had to find in the first place, and even then we still had trouble on the way, I seriously thought it would have been nothing, especially with it being such a low rank, I only chose it because I needed some sort of distraction."

Ino sighed once more and slipped herself deeper into the water, she then glanced towards Sakura and shook her head slightly, pushing herself back up she smiled warmly.

"Sorry, I'm just relieved to be back, especially now knowing we have been given time off."

Sakura nodded in agreement, a warm smile mirrored Ino's.

"No need to be sorry, I know exactly how you feel.. Although I don't think I went through as much as you, I just think everything is catching up on me."

Sakura returned.

"Hey, do you fancy getting something to eat later? We could see if Tenten and Hinata are back and invite them too, it's been some time since us girls have spent some time together."

Sakura questioned with a hopeful look in her eyes, there was no need to convince the blonde because almost instantly Ino was nodding enthusiastically.

"Great idea, as soon as we are finished here we can go see."

Sakura nodded once and set her head back against the side, it was quick and it was simple, they all had time off now, they all needed some girl time, some food and even that bit of emotional support, it was imperative.

Muscles had eased and tension had been released, both Ino and Sakura had used their time in the springs to completely let themselves go, and now that both were at the point of starving they would set out for their next destination, with a few diversions on the way of course, hopeful that their fellow kunoichi were back and willing to join them for something to eat.

"Let's meet at the restaurant in an hour, just so we have that chance to gather."

Sakura informed, Ino waved and the two separated, to ready themselves for the evening which had been planned.

The hour passed quickly, Ino had arrived at the restaurant first, Tenten walking beside her, standing at the entrance the two waited, and two minutes later Sakura turned up, greeting Tenten with a smile, to which of course Tenten returned.

"Where's Hinata?"

It was the first question Ino greeted Sakura with.

"She will be joining us shortly, she had a few things she wanted to sort out before she did anything else, she said we can order, but I think we should wait until she is here, we are all in the same state of hunger I assume."

Sakura said with a soft giggle, to which both Ino and Tenten agreed with their own soft laughs.

"I feel like I've not eaten in days."

Tenten said rubbing her stomach and laughing some more.

"Let's get our table, I'm still feeling sore."

Tenten added grinning a little, Sakura and Ino nodded and the three made their way inside, they had been provided with a booth at the back of the restaurant, comfortable seating, privacy, what more could they ask for, it was perfect for them to unwind and let themselves catch up with each other without a worry.

"I felt like I would never sit down again."

Tenten uttered as she sank into the cushioned seats, Ino sat down next to her and a frown formed at her words, she had not thought to ask her how long she had been back from her mission, she had just jumped straight into asking her to come eat with them… guilt flashed through her, she pushed herself back up from the seat quicker than she had seated herself down..

"I'm so sorry, Tenten you should have told me if you needed some time to rest before coming here, I never thought.."

Tenten waved her hand, dismissing Ino's words, her smile was genuine and she patted the seat next to her.

"Don't be silly, I'm glad you did find me.. I've been back for some time now, just been a little rushed off my feet at home.."

The guilt eased slightly and Ino hesitated slightly, her eyes waiting for some kind of indication that Tenten was just trying to make her feel better, slowly seating herself back into the comfort of the seat she accepted Tenten's words and turned to Sakura who was engrossed in the menu..

"Is everything alright? You seem a little quieter than normal?"

Ino questioned the pink haired kunoichi, Sakura's attention slowly drifted to Ino she dropped the menu slightly, and the question registered soon after, her pink brows raised slightly and her gaze shifted from Ino and to Tenten, who were both awaiting her answer.. Had it been written on her face? Was it really that obvious to them? She was not wanting to ruin the night with her ranting, and it would even seem petty to ruin it especially what it was over.. even if she felt it important.

"It's nothing, I'm fine.. Now shall we look through the menu and see what we are going to order for when Hinata arrives."

Sakura said raising the menu back up to cover her face.. Leaning over the table Ino pulled the menu back down and pulled it away from her, the look on her face was clear.. and Sakura knew there was no way she could hide anything from her.. she did not usually give in as easily as this, but still..

"I didn't exactly want to go off on one tonight, especially after I invited you out."

"Sakura, we are here to eat, and talk.. we are all friends here, and that's what friends do, have a nice night out, cheer up their friends.."

Tenten cut in, giving Sakura some encouragement..

"Thanks Tenten.. Well, it's nothing out of the normal, just worrying about Naruto again, he got pretty beat up during our mission.. I know he heals incredibly, and I know he can handle himself, but think how it could be affecting him mentally, I know it sounds crazy that I am thinking that deeply into it but even when I ask him if he is okay, he just tells me he's okay and to stop worrying.."

Sakura sighed as if she had been defeated, her head drooped slightly..

"It does not sound crazy, Naruto is your team mate and your friend, and to take concern in such things is great.."

Ino started, Tenten glanced towards Ino for a second and then looked across the table to Sakura.

"Yeah, even that in itself is supporting him, even if you think you are not doing anything to help, you are just by being there for him, everyone is helping without even realizing it, just don't let it eat you up so much, and don't think you can't talk to us about it either, because you can.."

Tenten finished. Sakura's relaxed a little and a small smile decorated her features.

"Thanks you two.. err.. Well.. There's something else.."

Sakura bit her lip, and Ino's eyes widened, she could tell instantly this was something big, Tenten jumped a little when Ino shot up, her finger pointing towards Sakura, who was now pressed further into the corner of the booth..

"Sakura Haruno.. Spill.. Now, I know that look, and it's more than just Naruto, you used to look like that when we would talk about Sasuke.."

Sakura waved her hands in surrender and laughed nervously..

"Well, I'm glad you helped.."

Sakura said, another nervous laugh leaving her lips.. Silence fell between the three, Ino's eyes were burning into Sakura's very soul, and Tenten had no idea where to look..

"Can I just ask? Helped with what?"

Tenten asked after a few moments passed, Ino seated herself back down, her eyes never left Sakura's..

"I was being sarcastic, lean in.."

Sakura returned, she glanced around the busy restaurant before she leant across the table, Ino and Tenten both shared the same movements, Sakura was now able to whisper to both of them, and their ears were open..

The booth fell silent, but as soon as the bomb was dropped Ino and Tenten remained still, their eyes slightly wider, their mouths open.. Sakura leant back into the seat, a smirk on her face, and her arms crossed across her chest..

"YOU SAW SAI'S WHAT?"

Ino's voice carried throughout the restaurant, which resulted in each and every being within turning and looking in their direction, especially locking eyes with the culprit..

"INO SHUT UP, YOU'RE DRAWING ATTENTION.."

Sakura shot reality at the blonde and a blush spread across her face, she turned to face the crowd.

"Sorry everyone.."

She called out, and within no time they were all getting back to what they had originally been doing.. turning back towards Sakura she leant in closer than she had done the first time, her voice low..

"You really saw it? Tenten am I hearing things or did she really say that?"

Ino threw the question and turned to glance at Tenten, who had not moved since the bomb went off..

"Tenten?"

There was a flicker of movement and Tenten's head dropped for a moment, before she looked back up to Sakura and nodded her head in response to Ino's question, Ino grinned at the confirmation and turned back to greet Sakura's gaze..

"How big was it?"

"Ino? Why ask me such a thing? I told you I saw, I'd rather not going into detail with it.."

Sakura returned, looking slightly offended, a devilish smirk rose to Ino's lips and she folded her arms, pressing them against the table she nodded her head..

"You always enjoyed going into detail when it was Sasuke we were talking about.."

The red appearance on Sakura's face confirmed her words.. Ino grinned and leant back into the seat.. Victory!

"So Sai does have one then?"

Tenten questioned Sakura, Ino's laugh caused Sakura's reply to go unheard.. There was another shift of silence between the three of them, Sakura's eyes were on Tenten, Tenten's were on Sakura and Ino was looking towards the table, trying to hold in as best she could, until Sakura's laugh broke the silence, which gave the other two the ability to join her..

"Okay, Okay.. we really need to stop this, I'm already sore.."

Tenten called out through breaths, her hands were clasped firmly against her stomach, and the laughing slowly faded..

"Sorry, this is just too good.."

Ino said shaking her head a little, wiping a few tears away from her face she continued.

"Can I at least ask one question?"

She questioned, trying to calm herself down a little more.. To which Sakura nodded, a rather large smile was joined with the response.

"How did that happen?"

Her question was serious now, which had been confirmed by her calm breath patterns, Sakura took in a sharp intake of air and bit her lip, a smirk had replaced her grin and she shook her head.

"It was an accident, I did not intentionally set out to have a look."

Sakura said with a shake of her hand.. She then blushed and looked away from the two in front of her..

"It was my fault, I was so wrapped up in worry over Naruto, I kind of.. walked into the wrong.. tent."

She tensed up, awaiting the response that she knew would come her way.

"And he was naked?"

Tenten edged the curiosity, to which Sakura met her brown gaze, she smiled and nodded, giving Ino another question..

"And what did he say?"

Sakura dropped her expression and her eyes rolled at Ino's question.

"Did you really need to ask me that? It's Sai.. He looked at me, smiled and said 'Oh, hello Sakura, did you want something?' I wanted the ground to swallow me whole.. and even worse, the next morning he was asking me what I wanted from him.. he kept asking me, every chance he could.."

Ino bit her tongue and shook her head, Tenten raised her brows.

"Some kunoichi, no sense of direction.."

Ino said, setting off into another fit of laughter..

"I knew you would say something on it."

Sakura said, laughing softer than the blonde, Tenten too could not help but giggle along with Sakura's 'unfortunate' event.

"Sorry I made you all wait."

A gentle apologetic voice pushed through the laughter and the three simultaneously looked to Hinata who was standing awkwardly at the edge of the table, Sakura was the first to respond with a warm, welcoming smile, which resulted in making her feel a little less awkward, Hinata returned her smile and seated next to the pink haired kunoichi.

"No need for apologies Hinata, we were happy to wait for you, we kept ourselves entertained."

Tenten said receiving a hum of agreement from Ino.

"Yeah, Sakura's been outwardly sharing her pervertedness."

Ino said, that devilish smirk from before once again shifted across her features, Hinata raised her brows and her eyes met Sakura's gaze, who was blushing softly, she then shook her head, ignoring Ino's words.

"Like I told them, it was an accident."

She told the Hyuga, who still had confusion etched across her face, Sakura leaned across and uttered the words into her awaiting ear, to which Hinata responded with a soft 'oh', she then blushed a little deeper than what Sakura had done prior to now.

"See, she's a little pervert."

Ino said giving Hinata a playful wink, Sakura shot her a dark look before picking up the menu, a change of subject was in hand, especially if Ino was trying to make her sound like the bad one.

"I think now that Hinata is here, we should get our order in, the waitress has been passing us endless times."

Sakura said passing the menu over to Tenten, who glanced up to her before taking it.

"I've already chosen what I want."

Sakura assured her.

"This is not over Miss Haruno."

Ino shot across to her before she leant over to Tenten, pressing her shoulder against the others, her eyes skimming over the menu, the two fell silent as they decided what their meal would be..

Sakura's attention was back to the Hyuga, who was sitting quietly next to her, she always knew she had been quiet, but she never really took too much notice of her, maybe because she was quiet she never really thought to.

"So, are you happy to be getting some time off?"

Sakura directed the question towards the female next to her, hoping she would at least speak up, now that Ino had shut up it might have been a little easier for her to talk. The Hyuga shifted in her seat and her gaze once again found Sakura's and with a firm nod she smiled.

"I'm glad, and I'm happy that everyone else will be receiving the time off too."

Hinata responded, it was a little less than what Sakura wanted, it was as if she was trying to avoid anything more than that, she seemed to a little different, or maybe she was just hungry, but still, she spoke..

"Are you all ready to order?"

The waitress left the question for anyone to answer, her eyes flicked between each of them, her pencil in one hand, her notepad in the other.. Sakura looked across to Ino and Tenten, who stayed silent for a few moments more, before they both nodded and Ino passed the menu across the Hinata, who took it.

"Nearly yes, can we order some drinks first whilst our friends makes her choice."

Sakura asked, there was a nod of confirmation from the waitress, who scribbled down their drinks order, as soon as she had done she left them, and in no time she had returned with each drink they had personally gone for, and this had given Hinata enough time to make her food choice, the waitress took down each of their food orders and silently slipped away..

The four made idle chit chat as they waited for their food, each of them occasionally taking a drink whilst they waited, they knew it would take longer than their drinks order, but the wait seemed to be taking forever, especially when they found themselves growing hungrier and hungrier as the anticipation built.

And then the waitress returned, setting the food down for them she gave them a soft 'Enjoy' and left them to it.

"This looks so delicious."

Tenten called out, her eyes gleaming with want, the three agreed with a nod of their head, each of them in turn starting to eat, and the chit chat continued between them, it was both filling their stomachs and filling their social level, it was just what they all had been craving for a long time now.

Ino stiffened in her seat, and she leaned in slightly, watching that her food went untouched by her loose strands of hair.

"Guess who's just walked in."

She aimed her words towards Sakura who had just put a piece of grilled meat into her mouth, her eyes found Ino and she watched her confused for a few moments before Ino nodded her head in the direction she was talking about, Tenten and Hinata both looked across, and Sakura soon joined them, nearly choking on her food she finished it quickly and leant across to Ino.

"If they come over don't get saying anything. Especially to you know who."

Sakura spat her words as quickly and as quietly as she could, Ino grinned and leant her back against the cushioned seating, picking up a piece of grilled beef she casually put it into her mouth and winked at the kunoichi.

"You know I wouldn't go that far."

The relief that washed over Sakura was enough to calm her down, but not enough for her to continue eating her food, her eyes just watched the entrance to the restaurant.

"They all seem to be here.. I wonder what they were all doing before now."

Tenten said, keeping her eyes across the restaurant.

Naruto and Sai had been the first to walk in, closely followed by Shikamaru and Choji.. and moments later Kiba and Shino, and then Lee and Neji made an appearance. The eight of them had a waitress accept them, guiding them towards the back.

"Whatever it was they have been doing, they must have had the same idea we did."

Ino returned, her eyes still watching them, still at this point the four of them had gone unnoticed, Tenten had gone back to eating her fill, Ino had her eyes on the boys, watching each of them, Sakura was watching too, but the odd piece of grilled meat was put into her mouth, and Hinata had her eyes glued to the table.

"Have they seen us?"

Ino openly questioned, to which Sakura responded with a shake of her head.

"Don't draw attention to us, I don't like to eat with a crowd."

Tenten whispered, a smirk formed and she continued to eat the remainder of her meal.

"Yooohooo! Boyys!"

Ino had stood up and waved her hand, instantly drawing their attention to their table, Sakura and Tenten looked at each other, they should have know that Ino would have been the one to draw the attention, even if she was told not to.

"Ino, sit down."

Sakura called out to her, leaning across she tugged at the blondes shirt and the blonde took a moment to seat herself and adjust her clothing, she shot a glare towards Sakura, who ignored it and then Ino's gaze was back on the boys, who were about to pass their booth.

"What are you guys doing here?"

Naruto questioned as soon as they came into range of the table, Sakura frowned and looked towards the remains of their food, giving him the obvious answer, he grinned and scratched the back of his head.

"Well I get that, I just mean it's been a while since the four of you have been together."

"Girly evening out."

Ino told him, Tenten nodded her head in agreement..

"Hello Sai, how was your mission?"

Ino said glancing quickly across to Sakura she smirked, her sly move was way too blatant to the four seated at the table, but for Naruto and Sai it just seemed nothing more than a normal question.

"It was very interesting, thank you for asking."

Naruto frowned and pulled a face.

"Why didn't you ask me?"

"We have our reasoning."

Ino responded with a soft nudge from Tenten, to at least keep her from pushing it any further..

"Hey, Naruto.. you are holding us all up, Choji's looking a bit pale back here."

Shikamaru called out to him, Naruto had been oblivious, and even though he had been there for less than even a minute he still apologised, turning towards the kunoichi he grinned and with one single wave he began to step away..

"Oh, by the way did you know we all have some time off?"

Tenten, Ino and Sakura nodded in sync, and Hinata remained silent.. still, Naruto's gaze caught onto her and his grin grew.

"Oh hey Hinata, it's been a while since I last saw you, since we have some time off we should all catch up, together."

Hinata remained still for a few seconds longer, her blush framing her face, she looked up and met Naruto's gaze, and the blush deepened, she looked away quicker than she intended, but luckily for her Shikamaru edged the front to move, Naruto waved a bye and Sai followed suit.

"Hey Ino, Tenten, Sakura.. Hinata."

Shikamaru greeted each of them and walked past, Choji leaning against him, obviously fatigued due to being that hungry.

"I would stop but.."

He didn't need to confirm it, because the look on Choji's face was enough to do that automatically.

"Nice to see you all."

Shino said as he made his way past, Kiba following behind as they still continued to flow in, even as the waitress remained by the table that had been chosen for them.

They all nodded once in response, and Kiba held his hand out to them as he slipped past..

"Hey Kiba? Where's Akamaru?"

Sakura called out to him, stopping in his tracks he half smiled.

"He's resting, he seems pretty tuckered.. I'm only here to get a quick something then I'm going to get back to him, I'll speak to you guys later anyway, I've got to be quick."

He said giving Hinata a friendly tap on the shoulder, she smiled up to him and returned her eyes to the table.

"Sakura, I relieved to have been able to run into you.. This is for you, it is chocolate from a small village.. I got it on our latest mission, please.. Enjoy."

Lee held out a small red box, his usual energetic air was filling the room, a huge grin adorned him, and his eyes sparkled with enthusiasm, Sakura smiled and took the box from him, Ino raised her brows and returned her gaze to Lee who was watching Sakura so intently..

"Thank You."

"Come on Lee, the table is waiting for us."

Neji cut in, to which Lee turned to him.

"But Neji, I wish to watch as.."

"Lee, I'm sure you can do that another time, we are kinda in the middle of something here."

Tenten said to her teammate, the disappointment that shrouded him was clearer than anything else in that restaurant.. Turning back to the table Lee grinned and Neji gave him a small nudge, to at least get him moving.

"See you soon."

Lee called out, Neji bowed his head toward the table and continued to walk away.

"Lady Hinata."

Another bow and he walked away to join the rest of the guys..

"Well, that was interesting."

Sakura said she shook her head softly and looked towards the little red box that Lee had given to her, she dropped it down next to her drink she would at least try and finish her food before doing anything else that would be considered 'exciting'.

"I know.. I wish someone would treat me like that.. I think he's the only one who understands the meaning of respecting a Lady.. Lady Ino.. Has a nice ring to it don't you think."

Hinata glanced up finally catching onto who Ino was talking about, her blush returned and she occupied herself with her food, the only thing Ino was waiting for was a response, and she certainly got one.

"Ino! That was not what I meant."

Sakura interjected and the blonde shrugged her shoulders, her brows rose slightly and she waited for Sakura's continuation, and nothing came so she continued her own words.

"I'm just being honest, and even if you won't admit it openly, everyone of them have become so good looking."

"Did someone slip something into your drink?"

Tenten questioned with a playful giggle, Ino smirked and shook her head.

"Like I said, I'm being honest, I never really noticed it before, but come on, if you think about it, you all know I am right."

Tenten, Sakura and Hinata all shared a look to each other and then Sakura smirked, she had not really thought about it until Ino had just mentioned it, but she was right, each of them had matured, and each of them had become good looking in their own way.

"Sakura finally sees it."

"I suppose because we've in a way grown up together, we have not really looked that deep into it."

Tenten responded, a small smile finishing her words off nicely, Ino nodded and then she turned to Hinata.

"What do you think?"

Hinata should have expected that she would be picked out, she had remained quiet, and it was obvious that Ino would be curious as to what her thoughts would be, but her thought for this evening were far from the matter at hand.. she just needed some time with her female friends, a distraction even, even if that meant she had to answer Ino's questions, whatever game she was playing at it was better than sitting at home alone.

"I haven't really noticed."

Ino pulled a face and cocked her head slightly, she could see right through her, the smirk said it all, and Hinata glanced over to Tenten for at least some kind of support, which might have been a mistake from the questioning look that she was giving to her.

"You have noticed haven't you? Come on at least with Kiba and Shino.."

Tenten questioned her, Hinata could feel the pressure of all eyes on her, and she felt as if a wall shot straight up in front of her, her head shook slightly and a blush remained on her cheeks, it was getting a little deep, well for Hinata this was.

"Well, they have gotten taller.."

Ino laughed and shook her head.

"We all know that, but come on, that's not all you can be seeing, just their height, you got to at least be able to see that they have gained some complimentative muscle, and their features are more manly looking, handsome even, heck.. there's some sex appeal right?"

"I know it was easier to notice with Naruto, especially when he returned, I believed he had matured in body and mind, but that turned out to just be body, not that I'm complaining anyway, I mean they all have some traits remaining, they have just turned out better than I would have expected."

Sakura said with a thoughtful look adorning her face, Hinata's blush deepened at the mention of Naruto, and the thoughts were flying through her mind. Tenten nodded in agreement.

"Lee's the same, he has not really changed, but you can tell that he's changed physically."

Tenten added with a tint of red accentuating what she was getting at.

"Yeah same here, both Choji and Shikamaru too, I may be close to them, but I can't help where my mind goes when I think about it deeply enough."

Ino said winking at Hinata, Sakura giggled understanding exactly how Ino's mind was working. Pushing her food away Ino leant her elbows against the table, her head tilted slightly, she gazed across at the shy Hyuga..

"Now I will know if you are lying if you tell me that you don't notice how much Neji has changed."

Hinata's breath got caught and her pale orbs found Ino's blue one's, she could see the air had changed almost instantly, and once again, all eyes were piercing into her, awaiting her answer.. Why could the floor beneath not open up?.. it would have been a perfect time, but still, enduring it was all she could do.

"Well, I.. he's.. uh.. yes, he's always been mature, but now.. Well, I suppose he's taller too."

Ino leant back into the seat and her arms folded across her chest, Sakura could see what she was getting at, even Tenten knew it, but Hinata herself was trying her best to keep the subject at bay, although her attempts were weak, this was Ino.

"You know exactly what I mean.. Miss Hyuga, I am sure as hell we all know exactly what I mean. At least admit that you have noticed how attractive he is."

Nods of confirmation was all it took, Hinata would dig a hole beneath herself if it were not going to open up on it's own. Defeated she only knew one way out without it getting too deep on the subject.

"Yes, I have."

She said almost too quiet, her eyes found the table once more and Sakura shook her head at Ino not to push it, Ino smiled warmly, feeling as though she had won, it felt too easy, she was only playing but even Ino could go over the top, and Sakura was the only one to help her realize this.

"Well, I am glad we all have something we agree on. We all know where your heart truly belongs."

"You do?"

Hinata looked surprised, her eyes locked onto the blonde opposite, and Ino nodded to confirm her words, was this some kind of attack? Or was Hinata really not that used to spending time with the girls.

"It's too obvious, the amount of times you would lose consciousness every time Naruto came into your sights."

Hinata's heart took a dive, if it were that obvious to them, then how obvious was it to everyone else? Had she really been that open about it, intentionally or not she must have been.. The silence continued and Tenten was the first to break it.

"Don't worry, it's only because of us girls knowing these things, especially when it's our friends."

"Boys are oblivious to that kind of thing, so there is nothing there for you to be worried about."

Sakura added, giving Hinata a quick and light hug to ease her worry, which worked for a few seconds, and then her head drooped that bit more..

"That's really not what I am worried about, well I am worrying about that, but.. it will only continue to be.. well.. I'm not sure what to call it.."

Sakura watched her for a few moments, trying to at least form something in her mind that would make sense on what Hinata was saying, or even more so to make her feel a little better, she could certainly see that she was worrying over her weaknesses.. But then, everyone has them, and overcoming them is the only way to become stronger.

"Friendship.. as long as you have that you have nothing to worry about, I'm not trying to say it's blocking you from anything more, because that's far from it, but friendship is important to anything, without that you might as well forget anything else.. well that's my view on that anyway, it's the base to anything."

Hinata listened to Sakura's words, to which she knew were true, she was certainly able to make her feel better, and even more incredibly she gave her some hope, but still, she was lost in her own mind, how would something like that be changed, if you had no idea why?

"Have you ever thought about talking to him?"

Hinata's eyes widened and her head shook quickly, talking to him about her feelings, she was already feeling pressured by her own feelings as it was, so how on earth would she do something like that, Tenten instantly understood the reasoning as to why from Hinata's reaction to her question, she smiled warmly and looked to Ino for some kind of addition.

"What if we helped you with that?"

Ino asked the Hyuga, there was silence, and she could see by the look on Hinata's face that she was thinking about it, she chewed nervously against her lip, and her head cocked slightly, her eyes met the blonde's.

"What sort of help?"

Hinata's responded with her own question, it really was hard enough to discuss something so personal to her, even with her closest friends, but maybe this was a hurdle she needed to jump before she had more confidence within herself to go further in her life, to achieve what her heart wished for her to achieve, maybe the pressure would ease from her.

"Hmm.. Sakura, any thoughts?"

Sakura had already been thinking, she was a little distracted by it, so when Ino's question came her way she remained silent..

"I may have something, I mean, it's all about your confidence right? In yourself.. maybe if you ask us questions, we can answer as open as we can, at least that way it's not calling it tips, because I think that sounds a little too hard to achieve, you need to do it within your own time right?"

Tenten nodded at Sakura's words.

"Yeah, anything you like.. on whatever you like, it might only build your confidence with us, but at least that way you get a feel of it.."

Tenten told her with a nod of her head, Hinata smiled in response, it sounded right what she was saying, she would talk to them about anything, and she could, but it was just the embarrassment that she would feel if it was something deep, and that was what she needed to work on most.

"How about a warm up first?"

Ino said, all eyes curiously found hers.

"What sort of warm up?"

Ino smirked and licked her lips, she had already thought it through in her mind, it might have been a little over the top, but at least it would get Hinata to open up, even with that it would get everyone to open up.

"Kill, Marry, Shag."

Ino's eyes had been locked onto Hinata's, and the reaction that she received was exactly what she expected it to be, a deep crimson blush, might have been the way she had phrased it, but either way she knew it was coming..

"Ino! That games so old."

Sakura called to her, causing the blonde to frown and look across to the pink haired kunoichi..

"Shogi's old.. people still play it."

Sakura rolled her eyes, there was no come back for that, she shook her head and since there was no rejection from either Tenten nor Hinata she nodded.

"Okay fine. As long as we switch it a bit.. Maybe Avoid, Marry, Shag.. I don't fancy killing anyone off whether it be real or not."

Ino agreed straight away and her eyes immediately found Tenten, giving her a quick look she then turned back to Hinata..

"Any objections?"

"Not from me."

Tenten replied, Hinata knew know she was once again the center of attention, she looked up and shook her head.

"Okay, great.. Rules, well, anyone goes."

"I think we should keep it around our own ages Ino, plus like you said this is just a warm up right?"

Ino sighed at Sakura's words, but soon enough nodded in agreement.

"Okay, we will play with no rules later. And if we are adding rules this time around, let's make it a little simpler.. it must be our teammates, and we must mix and match, and let's just simplify it even more.. Avoid, Marry and Shag, but we only chose two of them, that way if we have no reasoning for one, we can Avoid, how does that sound?."

"If you can't add a reason to either, then you go again."

Tenten added, a nod of agreement all round.

"Who's asking who first?"

"Since you asked that, maybe you should Sakura? Chose anyone."

Ino said with a smile, to which Sakura nodded her head in agreement, her first choice, was in fact Ino, she had the perfect two in mind.

"Hmm.. Okay, Shino or Sai."

The two choices caught her off guard, and she bit down on her lip as she rolled herself into deep thought, within no time her choices were concluded.

"Right, I would avoid Shino, and I would Shag Sai, Shino's being avoided, because.. well.. bugs.. and I would shag Sai because I think Marrying him would be a little difficult."

She said with a giggle, Sakura laughed and nodded her head, Hinata smiled, almost stating the fact that Shino's bugs were something you get used to, but decided to leave things as they fell, it was only a game right.

"Yeah, I think I would have done the same too."

Tenten agreed with a shudder.

"Ino, your turn to ask."

Ino grinned and looked beside her to Tenten, her mind whirling with ideas at the same time, she then looked across to Hinata, who seemed worried, it might be a little harsh what she was about to do, but the curiosity was killing her.

"Hinata?"

The Hyuga shifted slightly, and Sakura and Tenten glanced to Ino, awaiting her choices, Ino's smirk grew and she let her head tilt slightly before she spoke.

"Shikamaru or.."

She hummed slightly as if she was still making her decision, but Sakura herself knew it was just to build up the suspense, she rolled her eyes and sighed.

"Oh hurry up or I'll chose it myself."

Sakura told her, Ino dismissed her words by waving her hand, her eyes were glued to Hinata's.

"Neji."

Ino was slightly surprised that Hinata made no reaction, she simply pressed a finger to her lips and cast her gaze down, her thoughts collected together, all she could do now was just play along, even if her mind was distracted with other things she needed to force herself to be distracted by her friends.

Now everyone had leaned in, just in case her voice had gotten quieter than ever, first they were curious as to how confident she would be actually choosing and secondly how would the two be placed..

"Um.."

"Shag, yes who would you shag?"

Ino pushed, her eyes beaming with anticipation, Tenten nudged the blonde, who only leant forward more..

"Shikamaru."

Hinata answered Ino's question, she blushed but carried on mumbling something incoherent..

"Sorry, could you repeat that?"

Sakura questioned her politely, Hinata's eyes glanced between the three, it was intimidating enough that they were even on this level, but still..

"I would Marry Neji."

"And now your reasoning."

Ino instantly pushed, her ears open, ready for the fill of words.

"Well, I.. didn't really want to avoid either of them."

Ino shook her head harsh and crossed her arms, she sat up straight and her eyes burned into Hinata's soul, or so it seemed like it did..

"That's not a real reason. Come on Hinata, open up a little, you're flushing so there must be something."

"Ino, she's flushing because you are on her back.. You don't have to explain if you don't want to. I can understand you not wanting to avoid either of them."

Sakura said with an assuring smile, although even with her words, it didn't alter Hinata's flushed appearance.. Sakura cocked her head and her brows furrowed, had something Ino said got to her that deeply?

"Are you okay?"

Sakura asked her, there was no response for what seemed like ages, she then shook her head and stood to her feet, it was too much, all she wanted to do was cry, it was as if the walls of the restaurant were closing in on her, she couldn't handle it and she needed to get out. Slipping out of the booth she bumped into someone, her apologies started as soon as she caught her balance..

"I'm so sorry, I wasn't looking.. Please forgive me."

She said bowing before she even knew who was there.

"Hey, my mistake Hinata, I wasn't looking either, but seriously don't worry too much about it."

The voice was that of Kiba, his goal had been to come over and say his goodnights.. a grin formed and he shook his head, a soft laugh leaving his lips at her over reaction.. As the silence came as a response Kiba frowned, Hinata was not even looking at him, her eyes were to her feet, and for some reason she was shaking her head.

"I didn't hurt you did I?"

Kiba questioned her, he felt a tinge of guilt rise within him, and he reached out for her, she looked up to him and smiled, her eyes closed, her expression a little forced, she stepped back and bowed a few times to him, and then to Sakura, Ino and Tenten who were just as dumbstruck as Kiba was at this point, had they really gone that far?

"Sorry everyone, I really need to go, I'll see you later, thank you for the lovely evening."

Quickly digging into her pocket she pulled some money out, enough to pay for her share.. she dropped it next to her empty drink and turned away for the door..

Sakura jumped up from her seat and made her way for the door, Hinata had long gone by the time she got out into the open air, her eyes glanced around quickly trying to at least catch any sight of where she went, she must have bolted to have gone that quick..

"Did I upset her?"

Kiba questioned both Ino and Tenten, Tenten shook her head and frowned slightly.

"We are just as confused as you are, we were playing a game one minute, the next she was in a rush to go."

"This is all my fault."

Ino said dropped her arms onto the table she placed her head upon them and sighed deeply, she knew that she was pushing the young Hyuga but to the point of actually scaring her off, if she would have known that would happen she would have eased off.

"Why? What makes you say that?"

Kiba questioned her, his curiosity peeked a little more.

"I'm the one that started it, and I'm the one who pushed her. I didn't think it would be too much for her."

Ino admitted, sitting herself up to shrug her shoulders, she had no idea what point it was that she got her, but something sure did.

"I lost sight of her."

Sakura said as she returned to the table, she took in a few deep breaths and shook her head.

"I'm worried we upset her.. I think we should go find her."

Sakura said, both Ino and Tenten nodded their head in agreement.

"I'm about to head off anyway, I can track her and make sure she gets home."

Kiba suggested.

"That might be a good idea. We will talk with Neji, tell him what's happened."

Kiba nodded his head and waved before heading out of the restaurant and into the cool nights air, Hinata had not long left the restaurant herself, so her scent still remained.

When her scent started to sway further and further away from the Hyuga Estate, concern was deepening, it should have been a better idea to get Akamaru on the way, but there was no way he could count on how long her scent would be around, especially due to the winds picking up.

It must have been no less than ten minutes later, he found her.. Relief of course rushed through him, but the fact that she was stood gazing through the metallic fence that surrounded the Forest of Death gave him a slight chill.

"Hinata? What happened? What got you so upset?"

Kiba called out to her, stepping closer he noticed her head drop, he frowned and stopped dead in his tracks, his head cocked slightly to one side, his frown remained.

"Hinata?"

Stepping back from the gate she turned towards her teammate, he head was still drooped towards the ground, Kiba stepped forward, Hinata looked up and met his gaze, her eyes were filled with tears, she hadn't stopped crying since she left the restaurant, a build up of strong emotions, a tight pressure in her chest, she was terrified.

"Kiba.. Help me."

Kiba's reaction was quick enough to catch Hinata before she collapsed to the ground, the worry flooded quicker than ever, his adrenaline fiercely pumping through his system, pulling her closer to him, he readjusted her, standing up with her in his arms he carried her away, there was no doubt about finding his way back so his pace was quicker than it had been when he was searching for her.

Hinata's head lolled back and her eyes watched the trees flying by, the tears continued to roll down her cheeks, she could not determine whether her head was hurting from the period of crying or because she was overtired.

She had not slept properly for four days.. so even when she had tried to nightmares would occur and the only way she felt safe was to stay awake..

It all had started because she had been out training just before her mission, she felt she needed to push herself to carry it out, even though she knew Kiba and Shino would be there too, which meant they would be sharing the load.

But even before that, Hinata felt as though she was letting everyone around her down, she was expected of so much within her own home, from her own father, and she felt she needed to become stronger to keep up with her teammates.. even though there had been so many people around her, even telling her that they are there for her, she felt alone..

When she's felt alone her mind takes over, it's as if another voice within her steps up, not to help her, it always puts her down, like an inside battle against herself, and it became much worse since her sleep had been affected.

Even now she felt like she was a burden, the thoughts that rushed through her mind at this point were new, the mixed emotions thats crushed her very being were fresh, she did at least feel bad for leaving her friends without an explanation, but that was it, she didn't have one, nothing concrete anyway.. just that she felt like she was boxed in, like some weight was beginning to crush down on her, she panicked and left, a panic attack over something the girls would possibly think minor. She wandered to the Forest, without even being able to clear her mind, nothing could, even her performance on her mission knocked her back.

Everything must have piled up..

"Hinata what happened?"

Kiba's voice snapped her away from her thought trail, she grasped tightly to his jacket and buried her tear soaked face within it, she remained silent, Kiba could only pick up her quiet sobbing, he had never seen Hinata in such a mess before, sure he had seen her shy side, but she had always been so strong emotionally and physically, but this.. Kiba knew there was something deeper, but he was unable to pick it up directly.. He was in the dark, and worried beyond the norm.

The cool air rushed between them, Kiba's pace quickened as soon as his destination was in his sights, time had elapsed quickly, it had taken him just over half an hour to find her, and that bit more to return her, even if his pace had picked up it still took him just as long, or maybe that was the adrenaline pumping through him that made time feel like it had stopped.

"Kiba!"

The voice was that of Shikamaru's, shortly following the call was that of Akamaru, Kiba stopped and jumped down to the ground, the trees had been clearing his pathway at least, Neji was part of the small group, and as soon as Kiba came to a stand Neji was relieving him of his task, Kiba had no objections.. he passed Hinata across to him, she pulled herself into the same position as she had been with Kiba, her hand tightly grasping at Neji's shirt, her face pressed against his chest, her sobbing continued..

Akamaru was now at Kiba's side, and Shikamaru was at Neji's side.

"We all went out, I took Akamaru on the way, with him being quicker at finding you.. it was as soon as Sakura explained what had happened we decided to help, of course you didn't seem to need it, we just got worried.. Even for Hinata this was unfitting for her."

Shikamaru explained, Kiba nodded his head, thankful to know that everyone did decide to do so, and it was obvious that they had been split, but for now his attention was over to the kunoichi in Neji's arms.

"Did she say anything?"

Neji questioned Kiba, to which Kiba shook his head.

"She asked me for help, and all she has been doing since is cry, I've never seen her like this before, I've tried to talk to her, but I can't get through, I'm sorry Neji, but that is all I know."

It was as much as Kiba could tell him, and it was as much as he needed to know.

"Please inform the others that she's safe, and tell them thank you, I'm going to get her home."

Neji informed them, Kiba and Shikamaru nodded their heads simultaneously and the older Hyuga vanished out of their sights.

It was all he could say for now, all he could do was keep his cool and return Hinata home, it was strange to think that she was seated eating with her friends one minute, and the next crying into his shirt, he had not noticed any difference in her, the others had mentioned that she was quieter than normal, but that was something that could get missed, she had always been that way.. But if something was bothering her that bad. Why had she kept it in? Why had she not said anything to anyone?

"I'm okay to walk."

Hinata's soft voice brought his attention to her, she still had her head pressed against him, and her grip was slipping, his pace slowed down and eventually he stopped just outside the Hyuga Estate, putting her down he watched her for a moment, she didn't even glance at him.. Her movements were slow and steady, she turned herself away from him and made her way into the courtyard..

"My Lady? Is everything alright?."

Two steps forward and he was already caught up with her.. Hinata continued walking and nodded her head once, if his attention was not already on her he would have easily missed the motion.

Placing his hand onto her shoulder she stopped.

"Yes. I apologize for causing a disruption on everyone's evening. Goodnight! And sleep well brother."

Her eyes never met his, and as soon as she finished she turned away and headed inside. Neji was not wanting to press the issue, it was already clear that she was upset, so to push it would only make it worse, maybe tomorrow would be a better option, he was not going to allow it to be brushed aside so easily.

Thank you for reading! ^^

I hope you enjoyed, Sorry it's nothing incredible, and sorry if some are a little out of character..

I have to admit, I have never before worked with so many characters in one go, so this really was challenging for me, and I am enjoying writing this.

A review would be lovely ^^

And once again, Thank you! C: