Hey again So here is my prompt for a moment in time! I decided to use Pride and Prejudice as my inspiration! Mr Darcy just spoke Sasuke Uchiha to me! Iv'e tried my hardest to simplify the language which is why it's taken me so long to write! I hope you enjoy my little twist on the classic novel! This is really in memory of my mum who I use to watch the BBC adaption of the novel with at least once a month. So with out further a do: My fanfic!
Kim xxx
Moment In Time Prompt:
Uchiha Pride and Hyuga Prejudice
Hinata sat in the drawing room of her dear friend Tamari house in awkward silence with no other than Sasuke Uchiha. Upon awaking this morning she had found a note under her door inmorming her Tamari, Gaara, Shikamaru and Sasuke were visiting the beach for the whole day. However once going downstairs she saw Sasuke waiting her arrival. She had no idea why he decided to stay behind to talk with her. She'd known him for all of 9 months and it was safe to say she had hated him from the moment she'd met him and she was sure he'd felt the same.
Flashback
Perhaps she should start over? 9 months ago the Hinata and Hanabi's father had taken them to their villages spring Autumn dance. The two sister's had always been described as local beauties and their father was very proud of that fact. However having two daughters and no son to pass on the family name was considered 'bad luck' in today's society, to have any security the two sister's would have to marry well. At this particular dance there were rumours spreading like wild fire that Naruto Uzumaki and Sasuke Uchiha would be returning to the village that very evening and may even grace them with their presence. The duo had been gone for many years, since they were boys at least, since Sasuke had lost all his family when one tragic night his family had not only been robbed of their jewellery at a friends party but had also lost their lives.
The excitement within the room at the thought of Sasuke Uchiha returning had all the ladies in the room weak at knees, for who would not want to dance or be seen with the man who owned his own part of their village, a very wealthy part at that. His friend Naruto Uzumaki was also known to have wealth but not nearly as much as Sasuke.
Upon the their arrival the girls in the village had all but sighed in relief finding both men single and bringing with them another gentleman in the the name of Konohamaru single men were also pleased when a Saukra Haruno entered the village dance, finding her a beautiful and single woman who travelled with Sasuke and Naruto. Within 10 minutes of their arrival Naruto and Konohamaru were well liked around the room with pleasant demeanour and easy unaffected manners and soon found themselves well acquainted with the principle people in the room. Most notably was Hokage Kakashi Hatake who introduced the 3 gentleman to the 3 principle Hyuga members, Hiashi her father, Hinata herself and her younger sister Hanabi. Hinata had smiled happily seeing Konohamaru dancing once again with Hanabi. Naruto had danced with many women in the room, Hinata included. Sasuke however was the opposite to his friends in every way! He only danced only one dance the whole evening and that had been with Sakura Haruno and declined to be introduced to any other family after Hinata's. He spent the rest of the evening walking around the room, speaking only to members of his own party. His character had been decided that fateful night, he was known as the proudest and most disagreeable man in the world. Hinata had remembered hearing the conversation between Naruto and Sasuke a conversation which they had thought she couldn't hear.
"Come Sasuke," Said Naruto, "I must have you have you dance. I hate to see you standing about by yourself in this stupid manner. You'd be much better dancing."
"I certainly will not. You know how I detest it, unless I know my partner. At a gathering such as this it would be impossible. Sakura is dancing at present and there is no other whom I would dance with this night."
"Do you not hear yourself?" Naruto cried, "I have never met so many pleasant girls in my life as I have tonight and several of them are unbelievably pretty, although not a scratch on Sakura." At that Sasuke rolled his eyes.
"Look Konohamaru is dancing with a beautiful creature!" Naruto pointed to Hanabi and suddenly met the eye of Hinata, "And look there is her older sister sitting down just behind you. She is very pretty indeed."
"Who do you mean?" Turning he saw Hinata and coldly said, "She is tolerable I suppose, but I've seen prettier and I'm sure I can do better than some Hyuga. Go dance with your pretty partner for you're wasting your time with me." Hinata had sat in her chair for some time trying to not feel her pride wounded and decided her best course of action was to tell her friends Ino and Tenten with great spirits. She had laughed loudly and playfully with her friends at Sasuke Uchiha that night whom had heard every word she said also.
A week after the dance Hanabi had received an invitation by Sakura to attend a lunch with her so they might get to know each other a little better, however at the end of the letter she had stated the gentleman were dining out the whole day. Hiashi, being a bit of a matchmaker was not having that
"Dining out? That is very unlucky."
"Can I have a carriage father?" Asked Hanabi excitedly.
"No, my dear, you had better go on horseback. It looks likely to rain today and then they will insist on you spending the night."
"Father!" Hinata cried shocked.
"No I'm afraid you will travel by horseback or not at all."
To which Hanabi had, she had left the Hyuga house towards the Uchich district where Sasuke, Naruto, Sakura and Konohamaru were all staying. In a heavy downpour Hinata watched her sister feeling uneasy for her dear sister.
At breakfast time the next day Hinata had received a letter from her sister:
My Dearest Hinata,
I find myself very unwell this morning, which probably has a lot to do with getting wet through yesterday. Sakura, my kind friend, will not hear of me returning in such a state. They are to send a Doctor for me, however I crave your company most of all. Please visit me!
"Well father I hope you're happy." Hinata folded the note after reading it aloud to her father, "If Hanabi should have a dangerous illness- if she should die, I hope it comforts you to know that it was in pursuit of Konohamaru, and under your orders."
"People do not die of little colds Hinata. Your sister will be well taken care of of that I have no doubt."
Once Hinata was ready she had walked to the Uchich district herself, her dress was covered in mud by the time she had arrived but she hadn't cared she was fit enough to see Hanabi and that was her sole purpose of being there. Hinata had spent the whole morning with her sister finding much worse than her letter had led Hinata to believe and couldn't help but feel worried for her. When the clock struck 3 Hinata with the presence of Sakura now in the room, had gone to kiss her sister fairwell when Hanabi had pleaded with her to stay Sakura took it upon herself to offer Hinata a bed to stay in until Hanabi fully recovered.
After two horrific weeks of living under the same roof of Sasuke Uchiha, in which Hinata found they disagreed upon almost everything, she found she couldn't wait to return home once her sister was well enough. However when her father had come to visit that week she found herself thinking perhaps not, for when Konohamaru had asked Hiashi of Hanabi's health he grossly exaggerated her illness in Hinata's opinion:
"She is a great deal too ill to be moved." Hiashi answered. "We must trespass a little longer on your kindness."
"Removed?" creied Konohamaru. "Why it must not even be thought, must it Sakura?"
"I assure you Sir Hanabi will receive every possible attention while she is with us."
"If she did not have such good friends in you all I do not know what would become of her. She suffers a great deal, although she has the sweetest temperament and would never complain." Hinata had been flabbergasted at that remark! "Well you have a charming place here." Hiashi continued. "I hope you will not think of leaving Konoha again anytime soon." He spoke to Konohamaru.
"I believe I should be happy to live in Konhoa forever." Konohamaru proclaim. "Wouldn't you Sasuke?"
"You would?" He asked sounded genuinely surprised. "You don't find the society to be confined and unvarying?"
"Confined and unvarying it is not Sir! It is much more pleasanter than any city what ever you may say about it!" Hiashi cried.
"Father," Hinata cut it, "You mistake Sasuke's meaning." She blushed seeing Sakura sniggering to herself and watching Sasuke go stand by a window.
"Do I? Do I? He seems to think this village nothing at all. Confined and unvarying indeed? I would have him know we dine with over 20 families."
"Father." Hinata tried another approach, "Have you seen Tenten and Ino since I have been gone?"
"Yes, although they were looking for you. However I did meet with Ino's father. What a likeable man he is he always has something to say to everyone. That is my idea of a gentleman; and those persons who fancy themselves very important and don't open their mouths quite mistake the matter." Hearing her father's words obviously aimed at Sasuke Hinata wanted nothing more than for the world to swallow her whole right then and there!
Unfortunately it had not which is why at a ball the following month at the Uzumaki mansion on the Uchiha estate, Hinata found herself dancing with no other than Sasuke Uchiha. She had tried to think of an excuse but had failed immensely and instead found herself agreeing to dance with him. Her friends had assured that she should take it as a compliment that he had in fact singled her out, she did not see it like that at all. Taking to the floor Sasuke bowed to Hinata while she curtseyed and they began their dance along with other couples on the dance floor. Hinata and Sasuke had made polite conversation but nothing more until Ino had cut in for a moment to point out the looks between Hanabi and Konohamaru:
"Don't you see a spring wedding next year." Ino squealed. Hinata laughed and gave her friend a warning look. Sasuke looked upon the pair with a frown, a frown which should of warned her then he saw nothing desirable about the match.
The morning after the ball was the morning Hanabi's heart was broken: After receiving a letter from Sakura informing her of their whole company's departure to the Land Of Iron and they would not be travelling for the foreseeable future. They were off to visit a family relative of Naruto's, his cousin Karin. And he hoped Karin and Konohamaru would fall in love with each other and hopes of their marrying in due course.
By winter Hinata could not stand to see Hanabi's heart broken face any longer, so much so that she sent her away to the Land of Iron. She hoped by some miracle Hanabi would somehow bump into Konohamaru. Hanabi had sent her a letter after 3 weeks of being in the Land of Iron:
My Dearest Hinata,
I find myself in much happier spirits here. Thank goodness we have such great friend's. All I need now is my dear sister to make me even happier. Upon my arrival I decided to write a letter to Sakura and inform her I was in town and that afternoon to call upon her. I was very eager to see her again and I thought she was glad to see me although she seemed a little out of spirits. She warned me that my letters seemed to have gone astray so she had no notice of my arrival which I found rather odd. My visit was not long as Sakura was going out.
I waited at home for 3 weeks and today she came. I realise now that I have entirely decieved by Sakura in her regard for me. She made it very evident that she took no pleasure in visiting me. When I asked after Konohamaru she made it clear that he is well aware of my presence but he is spending all his free time with Karin and Saskue. I must conclude then that Konohamaru now no longer cares for me.
Hinata feeling a need for a change of scenery herself decided to visit her dear friend Tamari in the village of the sand. Tamari was the older sister of the Kage and leader of the village, Gaara. They had become great friends when Tamari had visited Konoha many years ago and had kept in touch ever since. However fate was never on her side and Hinata had been shocked to learn Sasuke Uchiha was staying with the Kage family also and with him he had brought a friend Shikamaru Naru.
Hinata, Shikamaru and Tamari in the next coming week laughed and talked merrily together. Sasuke was usually in the same room although kept much to himself. Hinata caught him on many occasions staring at her for long periods of time.
"Can you tell me?" Hinata asked Shikamaru one evening. "Why does Sasuke keep staring at me? What do you think offends him?" Seeing both Hinata and Shikamaru look at him Sasuke walked towards the pair.
"I hope that your family is well." Sasuke enquired.
"I thank you, yes." Hinata paused waiting for Sasuke to carry on the conversation. Feeling an awkward silence settle between them Hinata decided to take matters in to her own hands. "My sister has been in the Land of Iron for a couple of months have you happened to see her?"
"No." Sasuke paused looking to the ground. "I have not had that pleasure." And turned to look out the window.
Hinata gave Shikamaru a little teasing smile. "Sasuke and I, as you see, are not the best of friends."
"Well I'm very surprised to hear that." Shikamaru stated looking at Sasuke. Later that night Hinata, at the request of Gaara, was playing the piano. Tamari and Gaara talked between themselves while Shikamaru sat in a chair beside Hinata to turn the pages of the sheet music for her. During her playing she noticed Sasuke make his way towards and them and her playful nature being what it was she decided to tease the Uchiha some more.
"Do you mean to frighten me, Sasuke, by coming over to hear me? I must warn you there is a stubbornness in me that rises my courage at every attempt to intimidate me."
"I couldn't agree more with that statement." Sasuke smirked. "I know you find great enjoyment at professing opinions that are not your own."
Hinata laughed heartily at the picture of herself Sasuke had created. "Your friend will give you a very pretty image of me yet teaches you to not believe a word I say." Hinata spoke to Shikamaru playfully. "Very harsh too, for it provokes me to relate and say some what of his behaviour in Konoha that may shock his friends."
"I am not afraid of you." Sasuke rose to the challenge.
"First time I ever saw Sasuke was at a village dance where he danced one dance the whole night though gentleman were few and may women were left without partners."
"I find it difficult to talk with strangers." Sasuke defended himself.
"Why? How can a man of sense and education, who has travelled the world, find it hard to converse with strangers?"
"I-I have not that talent which some people possess of conversing easily with strangers. I cannot catch their tone or appear interested in their concerns, as often as I see done."
"I do not play this instrument as well as I would wish to, but I have always supposed that to be my own fault because I would not take the trouble of practising." Sasuke nodded a smirk forming on his face.
The following morning Gaara and Tamari were to attend a secret meeting for the sand village so Shikamaru and Hinata decided to take a walk about town. They had begun chatting when Hinata had happened to ask him if he knew Naruto and Konohamaru at all:
"I know them a little, Naruto is a little brash once you get to know him, so I've been told. Konohamaru is a pleasant gentlemanly man. They're great friends with Sasuke."
"Yes." Hinata acknowledged. "Sasuke is very kind to Konohamaru and from what I witnessed takes a great deal of care of him along with Naruto."
"Yes, I believe he does take great care of him. I understand Sasuke congratulates himself on having lately saved Konohamaru from a most ill-advised marriage." Hinata's heart leapt at such information.
"Did Sasuke give his reason on such an interference?"
"I understand there was some strong objections to the lady."
"And why was he to be the judge? I don't see what right Sasuke had to determine and direct in what manner his friend was too be happy." Hinata saw the worried look on Shikamaru's face. "However I believe you may be right," She quickly rained herself in. "We neither of us know the people of involved, perhaps there was not much affection between them." Hinata could take the swelling in her heart for her sisters sake no longer. Complaining of a upset stomach Hinata made her way back to Tamari's and retired to her bedroom for the remainder of the day.
Present Day
Hinata sat at the dining table in the bay window over looking the village square and offered Sasuke a cup of tea also, but he declined. In a hurried manner he asked if she was feeling any batter and she answered him with cold civility. Sasuke sat in a chair at the dinning room table with Hinata, only to stand again a moment later and walk about the room. After a prolonged silence of only hearing Sasuke's deep breathing, Sasuke came towards her again and stood in front of her.
"In vain I have struggled. It will not do." Sasuke told her in an agitated manner. "My feelings will not be restrained. You must allow me to tell you how ardently I admire and love you."
Hinata's astonishment over took her face, her opal eyes widened, her cheeks flushed a little, then doubt took over and finally silence.
"In declaring myself I realise I am going against my family, my clan, my friends and hardly need add my own better judgement." Hinata could not believe he could say such a thing! Did he not realise he was telling her she was beneath him?! Did he not hear his own pride?
"Almost from the moment we met I have to feel for you a passionate admiration and regard, which despite all my struggles, has over come every rational objection and I beg you, most eagerly and consent to be my wife."
Hinata thought of her feelings for this man. If she were to yes her family would never have to worry for money again for the rest of their lives, however Hinata would be stuck married to a man she deeply disliked. She found herself complimented by his affections, especially off such a man, though her decision did not vary for an instant. At first she felt sorry for him, for causing him such pain, till she remembered his dealings with his sister and anger took over. Taking a steadying breath to compose herself.
"In situations such as this I believe it is proper to express a sense of obligation...But I can not. I have never desired your affections and have certainly bestowed it upon me most unwillingly. I am sorry to have caused pain to anyone, it has been unconsciously done and I hope you wont feel it for long."
Sasuke stared at her in bewilderment for a few moments to then walk away and look out the window. Then back to Hinata and his deep breathing.
"And-And this all the reply you are giving me?" Hearing nothing but silence at his question he continued. "I might wonder why with so little civility I am rejected."
Hinata looked upon him with furious contempt. "I might wonder why with so evident desire to insult me you told me chose to tell me you loved me against you will, against your reasoning, and even against your character?" Sasuke's head fell back then feeling frustrated at himself and his ill choice of words. "I have every reason in the world to dislike you Sasuke Uchiha. Do you think I would even consider accepting your hand after learning of your involvement of ruining the happiness of my most beloved sister? Can you deny it?"
As Hinata pronounced these words Sasuke's face changed colour, but the emotion was short lived.
"I have no wish to deny it! I did everything in my power to remove my friend from your sister and I rejoice in my success. Towards him I have been kinder towards my self." He said the last pert more to himself. "And this is your opinion of me?" He walked across the room. "Perhaps these offenses might have been over looked had your pride not been hurt by my honest confession. Of the anxiety that has long prevented me forming any serious attachment to any woman. Had I concealed my struggles and flattered you? But I despise disguise of any sort. I will not be ashamed of my feelings I related they were natural and just." Sasuke paused once more feeling anger boil within him. "did you expect me to rejoice in the inferiority of your family? To congratulate myself on my new relations? Who's condition in life is so decidedly below my own?"
Hinata stood from the table and tried desperately to reel in her own anger. Trying with every effort she tried to speak in a composed manner.
"You are mistaken Sasuke if you think that your proposal affected me in any other way, than has it spared the concern which I might have felt in refusing you, had you behaved in a more gentleman like manner." Hinata watched at Sasuke try to talk but she continued. "You could not have made me the offer of your hand in any possible way that would have tempted me to accept."
Again his astonishment was obvious, and Hinata's anger had well and truly taken over.
"From the very beginning- From the first moment I can almost say upon meeting you, your manners impressed upon me of your arrogance, your conceit, and your selfish disdain of the feelings of others. I had not known you month before I felt that you were the last man in the world whom I could EVER marry."
Sasuke took a deep breath never taking his eyes of Hinata's angered face. "You have said quite enough Hinata. I perfectly understand your feelings, and have now only to be ashamed of what my own have been." Feeling the lump in his throat Sasuke swallowed and walked towards the door. "Please forgive for having taken up your time, and accept my best wishes for your health and happiness."
The feeling of shock over took Hinata on Sasuke's departure, feeling her knees give in Hinata sat in the nearest possible chair. She could not believe it! An offer of marriage off Sasuke Uchiha?! That he was in love with her for so many months?! After crying for over half an hour Hinata decided it best to escape back to her room in case Sasuke were to return.
Hinata woke from the bed later on that night, judging by the light it was at least midnight. Hearing a strange sound Hinata looked to the door and saw a letter being slid beneath her door. Waiting several moments for footsteps to die away Hinata jumped out of bed and opened the letter:
To Miss Hinata Hyuga,
Please don't be alarmed upon receiving this letter, with apprehension that it may contain any repetition of my feelings or renewal of those offers which were, this morning, so disgusting to you. I write without any intention of paining you, or humbling myself. But you must allowed to defend at the charge laid at my door regarding your sister. However I should warn you, my feelings on this matter way cause you some offence, I can only say that I am sorry if this is the case.
I had not long been in Konoha before I saw that Konohamaru admired your sister. But it was not until the dance at Naruto's mansion on my grounds that I saw a serious attachment between them. I had often seen him in love before. At the ball, while I had the honour of dancing with you, I over heard your blonde friend all but confirm the general expectation of their marriage. She spoke of it as a certain event, a not 'If' but 'When'. It was then I carefully watched my friend and saw his partiality for your sister was beyond anything I had ever witnessed of him so far. Your sister I also watched. Her look and manners were open, cheerful and engaging as ever, but without any evidence of her liking and also feeling the same for my friend. If I have been mistaken here, again I apologise. Your superior knowledge of your sister does you credit. And if I have been misled by such an error to inflict pain on her, your resentment towards me has not been unreasonable. I would like to add here that I did not believe her to be indifferent because I wished it; I believed on impartial conviction. That very evening after the ball I sat my friend down and told him of my findings; by morning we had left got Iron Country. Naruto had at first objected but Sakura had felt the same as me and he decided we had the best intentions for Konohamaru. There is but one part of the affair that I do not reflect upon with satisfaction: that is that I concealed form him your sister being in town. Perhaps this concealment was too much. It is done however, and it was done with the best of intentions. One this subject I have nothing more to say and no other apology to offer.
By morning Shikamaru and myself will be gone, I do not wish to ruin your time while visiting your friends. Please accept my best wishes in the future.
Sasuke Uchiha
Hinata found herself reading and re-reading the letter again and again. She couldn't help but feel angry, yet it was with herself and not at Sasuke. Hinata had never encouraged Hanabi to show Konohamaru how she felt towards him and Hanabi had always struggled with showing her emotions to anyone but Hinata herself. Hinata could not deny the justice of his description of Hanabi. Hinata closed the letter finding herself needing time to think on the matter and decided a good sleep might do her some good and maybe it was time to go home.
After returning home to her father Hinata had kept herself busy in the household and meeting with her friends Ino and Tenten. She told no one of Sasuke's proposal, she felt that information alone should be her's alone.
When Hanabi returned Hiashi and Hinata were beyond happy to have their little family back together. Hiashi was over joyed that he had is two favourite daughter's under his roof again: to which Hanabi had pointed out, they were his only daughter's. After dinner that same night Hanabi lay in bed with Hinata late into the night telling Hinata of her wonderful time in the Iron Country, of the people she had met and new friends she had made.
As spring turned to summer Hinata and Hanabi made sure to walk through the village each day weather to pick fresh flowers for the table or to visit with the mutual friends. The day was stifling in the sun and it's little to no wind. Hinata walked with Hanabi casually home with some wild flowers they had picked in a meadow on the outskirts of the village.
"Urh my poor feet have swollen to twice the size in this dreadful heat." Hanabi moaned. "Look!" Hanabi pointed to a lake in the distance. "Let us go dip our feet in? Please Hinata."
Hinata looked in the direction of the lake and hesitated. The lake was in the Uchiha district and with no one home Hinata did not want to get accused of trespassing. When she had spoken her worries to Hanabi however they were brushed off with a: Who's ever going to find out?
Hinata ran after Hanabi lifting her dress allowing herself to run faster they made their way towards the lake. Whilst on the way Hinata took in the spender of the Uchiha district, it was beyond beautiful. She had only seen it in the night light of the Uzumaki ball.
Sasuke threw the axe on the floor and surveyed the wood pile he had chopped for the open fire in his own house. The Uchiha mansion stood proud overlooking its entire lands. To Naruto's home, the lake, a small portion of forest land and a farm Sasuke leased to a local farmer who supplied him with all the meat he needed. Sasuke loved these lands although they were bitter sweet for him: such a large amount of land and house with 10 bedrooms alone was far too big for just one man. Finding himself thinking of Hinata Hyuga once again and her displeasure of his affections towards her. Sasuke wiped his brow and removing his shirt that was sticking to him from sweat he decided a swim in the lake would be a good idea too cool himself off.
Hinata and Hanabi giggled with their feet in the cool water, splashing one another and trying to no avail to keep their skirts from getting wet at the bottom. Sitting down on the bank with their feet in the lake still Hinata and Hanabi relaxed in the after sun enjoying the silent moment to themselves.
"Admit it, I think of the best ideas." Hanabi broken the silence.
"Well I wouldn't go that far." Hinata joked. Causing Hanabi to retaliate by slashing her once more. While lost in their water fight they had failed to notice a movement under the water and could only scream when a dark haired head popped out of the water only a few meter's in front of them.
Sasuke looked at the two sisters playing in the water. He had heard shouts of joy during his swim and decided he would scare the culprits off his lands. However when seeing Hinata stood there he was shocked he could never scare her away. Swimming towards the two sisters he gracefully stood out the water and closed the gap between them.
Hinata blushed at the state of Sasuke Uchiha's undress. Hinata looked at his well defined chest arms and stomach and felt in awe of him. When he drew closer she noticed some scars and it took all of her will power not to reach out and touch them. Hinata blushed knowing she was staring at his body and how that must look.
Sasuke looked down at himself and realised that in his haste to see Hinata once again he had forgotten he was hardly appropriately dressed for such a meeting with two ladies. Hanabi smiled between the two seeing her sisters embarrassment all over her face.
"Sasuke, I-I am so sorry. We-We did not expect to see you sir. We were under the impression that everyone was away, otherwise we would never have dreamed to invade upon your priv-"
"I returned just today actually. Excuse me your father is in good health?" Sasuke tried at being civil.
"Yes! He is very well thank you."
"I'm glad to hear it." Think man, think! Sasuke pleaded with himself. "And how long have been back?"
"Since I returned from the Sand Village."
"I see, I see." Sasuke felt himself begin to blush, he could only hope that he was already hot enough the the sister could not tell. "Well, I just arrived myself." You idiot you already said that! "And your father is in good health and all your...family?" And that! For fuck sake you're an idiot!
"Yes." Hinata gave a little giggle. "They are all in excellent health."
"Much to father's disappointment." Hanabi joked. "He tells us the elders make him feel older than his years."
"Hanabi!" Hinata warned. Sasuke smiled at the youngest Hyuga.
"Er excuse me." Sasuke bowed quickly retreating towards the Uchiha mansion for some dry and clean clothes.
Hinata stood in shock for a few seconds before grabbing Hanabi's hand.
"Urh I can't believe I let you talk me into coming here! We must get out of here at once."
"Why? He seemed pleased to see you. Did you see his 6 pack?" Hinata squealed and pulled Hanabi along out the lake and in the direction of the exit of the Uchiha district.
"I wish we'd never come." Hinata felt mortified. "What must he think of me?" She asked herself.
"He didn't come across displeased at seeing you. You're making a big deal out of nothing."
"Hinata! Hanabi!" Sasuke called running towards them in much more suitable attire. Then he realised he had called their names in 'an ungentlemanly like manner' damn those words! Catching up the the sisters Sasuke spoke to Hinata pausing their walk:
"Hinata please allow me to apologise for not having received you properly just now" Looking around he noticed the stone archway exit, "You're not leaving are you?"
"We were sir I think we must." Hinata blushed.
"I hope you like the Uchiha district?"
"Y-Yes, how could I not?"
"And you approve of it?"
"Very much." Hinata smiled. "I think there are very few who would not approve."
"But your good opinion is rarely given making it all more worth the earning." He smiled playfully.
"Is it suddenly warm, or is it me?" Hanabi whispered to Hinata only to collapse a moment later. Luckily Sasuke had quick reflexes and caught Hanabi before her head hit the floor. Picking her up bridal style Sasuke insisted on taking her back to the Uchiha mansion to call for a Doctor. What they didn't notice was Hanabi sneaking a peak under her lashes at the pair walking beside one another.
"Does you father care for fishing?" Sasuke asked Hinata out of the blue.
"I believe he does, when he gets the chance."
"You must tell him he is welcome to come fishing on my lake anytime he wishes. My servents will be happily to supply him with a rod and tackle any time."
"That's very generous of you Sasuke thank you." Hinata's eyes lingered on Sasuke and smiled up at him.
Once in the mansion Sasuke lay Hanabi on a very comfortable sofa in a big lounge room. Sasuke offered to show Hinata around the house while they wait for the Doctor to arrive to check on Hanabi. Hinata found herself keeping apologising for having trespassed on his lands. Sasuke assured her she should not feel uneasy about it and he was in fact delighted to see her again. Making their way back to Hanabi after showing Hinata the grandness of the house Sasuke informed her that he would be receiving guests as of tomorrow. Naruto, Konohamaru, Sakura and Karin would all be arriving by tomorrow afternoon.
"I would like it very much if you were to join us for dinner tomorrow if you are not busy?" Sasuke asked.
"I would like that very much." Hinata smiled.
By the time the Doctor arrived Hanabi had 'awoken' and apologised for causing such a hassle to Sasuke. The doctor informed them Hanabi had only fainted and would be fine after something to eat. Sasuke insisted that the two sisters stay for a meal and the three talked well into the night.
The next evening Hinata wore her finest gown and arrived at the Uchiha mansion to be greeted affectionately by Konohamaru and Sasuke.
"Sasuke." She smiled at him. "I hope that you have not been waiting long."
"Not at all." Sasuke assured her.
"Hinata! I can't tell you what a pleasure it is to see you." Konohamaru interrupted the pairs moment. Well I can see that you're well." He observed.
"Very well indeed thank you." She smiled easily at the young man.
"Good. Excellent. And your family?"
"Very well, Sir."
Konohamaru looked at her willing her for more information. But Sakura intervened by walking over to Hinata and introducing her to a red haired Karin. Hinata could not make out the new girl she felt her eyes on her on more than one occasion. Hinata and Sasuke stole glances at each other the whole night both smirking playfully when they caught the other watching them. After saying goodnight to Hinata and insisting she ride home in one of his cartridges because of the late time Sasuke made his way back to an informal lounge area where his friends were currently all chatting away:
"How very ill Hinata Hyuga looked this evening." Sakura talked loudly to Karin. "I've never in my life seen anyone age as much as she has since last year." Karin agreed. "Karin and I were just agreeing that we shouldn't know her. What do you say Sasuke?"
"I noticed no great difference. She is I suppose a little tanned due to the summer heat and hardly surprising when finding out she travelled to the land of Sand." Sasuke offered his opinion whist getting himself a drink.
"For my part I must confess I never saw any beauty in her." Sakura spoke. "Her features not at all handsome. Her complexion has no brilliancy. Oh her teeth are tolerable, I suppose. But nothing out of the common way and as for her eyes, which I have sometimes heard called fine, I could never find anything extraordinary in them." Sasuke turned away from Sakura in anger. In what right did she think she could be the judge of Hinata.
"I think-" Naruto began, trying to defend his friends crush.
"And I seem to remember how amazed we all were to find out that she was called a local beauty." Sakura continued. "I partially recall you Sasuke one night after she had dinned at Naruto's, saying 'she a beauty? I should of soon called her mother a idiot'." Sakura and Karin laughed. "But afterwards she seemed to improve on you. I even believe you thought her rather pretty at one point."
"Yes I did." Sasuke turned. "That was only when I first knew her. However it has been many months now since I have considered her to be one of the most handsomest women of my knowledge." At that Sasuke left the room.
The following morning Hinata sat with Hiashi and Hanabi over breakfast when he younger sister received a letter from Konohamaru telling her he was in the village and he would love a meeting with her today. Hinata smiled knowingly at her father, this could only mean one thing. Hanabi was in a state of distress, she was a bag of nerves when Hinata found her later that morning trying to choose what dress to wear. Hinata calmed her down and insisted this meeting could only be a positive one and she must not stress herself.
Hiashi burst into her room a moment after Hanabi was dressed and told her her had seen Konohamaru himeself making his way towards the house. The three quickly ran through the house to their sitting room and tried to look busy either reading or book or pouring tea.
"Look Sasuke is with him." Hanabi gave her sister a secret smile.
"Oh not that proud disagreeable man?" Hiashi scoffed. " Mr Sasuke Uchiha." Hiashi left his sit and looked out the window. "I believe it is." He said uncivil. "Well any friend of Konohamaru's will always be welcome here to be sure. Though I have to say I detest the man. Oh sit up up Hanabi a man would go a long way to see a figure like yours, if you would only make the most of it." Hinata looked to the table. Then a minute later they heard their front door open and a servant walk into the room announcing the gentleman's arrival.
"Konohamaru." Hiashi stood, his daughter's following his lead. "You are very very welcome." He smiled openly to the young man.
"How do you do Mr Hyuga." Konohamaru and Sasuke bowed. "I-"
"It is far to long since you were here and very very kind of you to call."
"Yes I-"
"I am delighted." Hiashi looked behind Konohamaru to Sasuke. "And Mr Uchiha you are welcome too." He added coldly. Sasuke stole a glance to Hinata and rolled his eyes when Hiashi went back to talking to Konohamaru. Hinata felt mortified at her fathers behaviour to Sasuke and was relieved when Konohamaru asked if Hanabi and Hinata would walk the with gentleman around their garden's.
Hinata watched as Konohamaru walked in front with Hanabi while Sasuke and Hinata walked some way behind to give them some privacy.
"I have a feeling you have something to do with this Sasuke." Hinata smiled at him, indicating towards Hanabi and Konohamaru in front. Sasuke smiled.
"Well I came clear to Konohamaru last night after your departure, that Hanabi had been in Iron Country the whole time he was and how I concealed it form him. I told him I was clearly in the wrong to do so and how I had not only hurt his feelings but also Hanabi's. I made clear to him that I had been wrong to assume Hanabi had no feelings towards. He asked me if I approved of their match and I told him I saw no other match that could them both as much happiness."
"That was very kind of you."
"I was in the wrong entirely. I am not ashamed to admit that. I have no doubt by the end of the evening the two will be engaged."
"Please let me thank you Sasuke, for giving Konohamaru your blessing and giving my sister the chance at happiness. My family are indebted to you."
"If you will thank me let it be for yourself alone. I thought only of you, and seeing you happy for your sister. Your family owes me nothing, as much as I respect them, I thought only of you." Hinata gasped at this and smiled under her hand. "You're much too kind to play with my feelings, if your feelings are what they were in May then please tell me so at once." Sasuke stopped to gaze at Hinata. "My affections and wishes are unchanged...But one word from you will silence me on this subject forever." Sasuke looked down and continued walking.
"My feelings? My feelings are..." Hinata paused in thought. "I'm ashamed to remember what I said then. My feelings are so different. In fact they are quite the opposite." At this Sasuke looked in to Hinata's eyes and genuinely smiled at her.
"Your words were just at the time. I am embarrassed to remember what I said to you back then also. I can still hear you telling me you would never take me as your husband, even if I had acted in a more gentleman like manner. You don't realise how much those words have tortured me."
"Please do not repeat what I said then." Hinata gasped.
"No I have been a selfish man all my life. A man I might still be today if it weren't for you. My dearest and loveliest Hinata. I suppose this means I better ask for a meeting with your father when we turn to you home." Hinata nodded and linked her arm into Sasuke's.
"Are you out of your mind? To be accepting this man." Hiashi asked to Hinata. "Have you not always hated him?"
"Father-"
"I've given him my consent, he's the kind of man whom I would never dare refuse anything." Hinata couldn't help but laugh at this. "But let me advise you to think the better of it. My child, let me not see the grief of you being unable to respect your partner in life. He's rich to be sure, but will he make you happy?"
"Have you any other objections other than you believe I won't be happy?"
"None at all. We all know him to be a proud and disagreeable man." Hiashi watched as Hinata looked to one side hurt by his words. "But this would be nothing, if he really liked you." He added squeezing her hand.
"I do." Hinata looked at her father. "I do like him, I love him! If you only knew his generous nature. I didn't always love him, but I love him now so very dearly. He is truly the best man I have ever known." Hiashi looked in to his eldest daughter's eyes and saw nothing but truth in her words.
"Well, my dear, if this be the case, he deserves you." And with that he kissed the top of her head. "I could not have parted with you to anyone less worthy Hinata. Two daughter's engaged in one day, if only you mother were here to celebrate with us."
