Disclaimer: I do not own Naruto.
"Hyuuga Hinata"
.
.
This can't be! Neji thought, wide-eye in fear.
He felt Kiba's gaze burn on his skin and his teammates looks of pity. He knew the Jonins were gripping their seats, ready to spring into action. Neji didn't blame them for acting this way. His own breath had become shallow when the dancing lights on the board flashed his cousin's name. What were the chances? What were the chances that Hinata's opponent in her second chunin exams was ... Neji?
He had been so confident. He had made it to the finals in his second chunin exams. But now... Neji didn't know if he could hurt his cousin again. Neji feels ache in his chest when he gave her just bruises during training. This is the chunin exams. He needed to knock her unconscious before he is announced the winner.
Reluctantly, Neji swung himself over the rail and onto the battle grounds. His opponent was already waiting for him.
"Niisan," said Hinata, lifting a hand in the Juken stance, "Don't try to tell me to give up."
"I won't," her cousin replied. He turned to the proctor, "I," he took a deep breath, knowing what he is about to say will shape the rest of his life, "forfeit."
Hush swept across the entire stadium.
What?
Hinata looked at her cousin in complete shock, "Niisan..?"
Neji didn't look at her. He ducked his head and disappeared back into the crowd.