Dark Anty – Whatsup people! -Dodges Flying Objects- AAAHH! WAIT! Sorry it took me so long. Time was against me and so is my laptop. I swear this thing is the devil's errand machine. Anyway, hope you like it. Now on with the show!
Disclaimer: I don't own Naruto. All characters and the show are copyrights to Masashi Kishimoto, author and writer of the manga.
Crystal Rose
Chapter 4: Inner Strength
Kami, why am I so weak? Why can't I be brave and strong as I'm supposed to be? Why can't I be strong in my family's eyes? Do shite? I'm tired of being looked down upon with such disliking and misunderstanding. I'm tired of constantly getting the short end of my family's love. I tired of trying to prove that I am worthy of respect, honor and love. I'm tired of constantly struggle for so much only to get little or nothing at all in return, tired of being seen as a waste of good skills, power, and flesh. I'm just tired, tired of it all.
I didn't ask to have a heart, I didn't ask to have the ability to love others more than myself, I didn't ask to show affection and emotions for those I love and I care; I didn't ask for it all, and yet I have them. I have all these feelings and affections, but what good does it do if the people I show my affections for always see it for weakness. I didn't ask to be hated, I didn't asked to be disliked, I didn't ask to have people belittle me, verbally abuse me, and frighten me everyday I walk through my doors. Hell, I didn't even ask to be in this family. Yet here I am, Hinata Hyuga, heiress to the Hyuga clan and looked down upon as a failure in everything little thing I do.
I want to change me family's opinions of me, I want to change my family to see me as the strong person that I am, to see that I'm not a failure. I want to change my family to have them recognize my strengths in my heart by showing my love to them and how much I love them. But alas, I'm too beaten, too frighten, and too weak to change anything of what my family sees in me, leaving me to cry in the dark in complete loneliness. I'm so tired of crying, crying because I was yelled at again, crying because I once again failed in my father's eyes, crying because of all the hard work I've done was but a waste of time. But most of all, I'm tired of crying because I'm unloved, I'm weak, and I'm alone in my perpetual darkness, never to see the warm light of love and care, never having inner strength as well as out.
Why do I have to be so weak? Why am I weak? Do shite?
"Hinaaataaaa,"
That voice…
"Hinaaataaaa,"
That voice. It sounds so deep…so powerful…so strong, so…warm.
"Hinaaataaaa,"
Who does this voice belongs to? This voice of great power and boundless strength.
"Hinaaataaaa. Be brave,"
I lift my head, wiping my tearful eyes to see a small light in front of me. It suddenly grew larger and brighter, nearly blinding me from its brightness, yet warming me with its warmth. I felt like I was floating in mid-air, kissed by the light with its gentle caress. This light, so warm and caring, have just saved me from my darkness, my heartbreaking sadness…from my deep, dark fears. I suddenly felt hand caress my cheek and hold my hand, and I looked up to see my savior, my angel, my beautiful rose.
"Hinata. Be brave for me."
Fiery Red locks of hair, eyes as strong and as clear as the seven oceans of the world, his skin so smooth like warm silk, and his voice so deep and strong, it fills my heart with flames. My Kami, he's a God. I looked into his eyes holding pure love for me, such a strong, handsome being caring for me. His smile so genuine and loving, and his voice speaking with such gentleness and strength as that of a Godly being from heaven. He pulls and embraces me, holding me close to his heart and gently kisses my forehead.
"Hinata. Be brave. Be brave so that you could never back down from the harsh words of your family. Be brave so that you can stand up for what is right and just for you and so many others. Be brave so that people can see your strengths, never your weakness. Demo, most importantly, be brave so that when you face your fears, you'll know that I was there fighting them beside you for I would never let you face your fears alone."
I held on to him for dear life, my eyes stinging with tears from hearing my angel say such peaceful and kind words to me. I breathed in his masculine scent, feeling as if the weight has been lifted off my shoulders. I felt so free with him, never bounded by my fears, never bounded by the hate of my clan, never bounded by fear of failing, but mostly never bounded by my weakness that I never really had. Now I know why I was weak. I allowed hate, failing and fear control my actions and could never be the best that they so wanted me to be, but no longer am I that weak, crying, little girl for I will no longer let fear take me down as long as I have you, my angel.
When I see my fears, hear those hate-filled words, and feel the agitation my family throws at me, I will hold my head up high and let them know that I no longer fear them and that I can be, I will be, and that I am strong through and through for I have strength, inside and out. Each time when you speak to me, smile at me, laugh with me, hold me, caress me, and even kiss me, I am constantly and forever filled with courage, strength and belief in myself, fighting a no winning battle, but knowing that you will always be by my side, fighting with me…Gaara.
With you with me, Gaara, the strength in my heart will grow more and more each time you stand by my side.
Gaara…you are my inner strength.
Saturday-October 26, 2107. 11:30 a.m.
Another mid-morning with the sun rising from the east and continuing its destination through the day. The same goes for an air-borne cheese omelet, flipping in the air and landed in the hot sizzling skillet. The skillet now flips over into a plate, decorated with fresh fruits and bacon, traveling to the table and in front of a hungry Hyuga.
"Here you go, Neji-niisan, an extra cheese omelet with Shitake mushrooms and crumbled bacon. -Smooch- Bon appétit,"
"-Chuckle- Shai, Hinata-hime," Neji sliced a piece and bit the cheesy morsel, moaning as if he bit into heaven, which with Hinata's cooking, he did. He gave her his thumbs-ups and she smiled brightly at his approval, going back to fix her mid-morning breakfast.
Today, Hinata hangs with her friends and decides to bring Neji along. She called her friends early and they agreed to let him join, so now they eat their breakfast and wait for their ride to come. Her father, Hiashi, is on a business trip for the week, and Hinako and Keshino took Hanabi to the store to beat early morning traffic, so that only leaves Hinata and Neji in the whole mansion for the morning.
As Hinata worked her way in the kitchen, Neji couldn't help but notice Hinata attire, always form fitting but never tight and it shapes her curves so nicely, as if it was second skin. However, he was more attentive to her curves more than everything else: from the swell of breasts to the roundness of her hips and down to her long supple legs. It amazed him how a twelve year old, going on thirteen, could develop such a shape at that age, but even more amazing at how her body made him react to such a realization. Not good.
Realizing his observant stare, he shook his head clear and simply looked at her.
"Oi, Hime, it's nice what you're wearing." Hinata wore her usual Elegant Goth. She wore a Dark Red, lacy see-through, no-shoulder, polo necked, long flared sleeved, Rose & Thorns shirt with a Black long-sleeved under-fabric and matching Dark Red fingerless lace gloves. With it came a Black long skirt with Red rose trimming with a Dark Red lace wrap around the hips, and her famous Black, knee-high, Fish-Eye Antique boots. She wore a Red Pearl Victoriana choker with matching earrings and bracelet. For makeup, she simply put on a Persian Red eyeliner and Dark Red lipstick. Her hair still had it feathery flips.
"Oya! Arigato, Neji-niisan. This is brand new from yesterday."
"Ara ittai?"
"Un,"
"It's nice,"
"Arigato. You look very charming if I may add." Neji slightly blushed at her compliment, thinking that his clothing wasn't very much. He simply wore a Light Blue dress shirt with three leather belts around his upper right arm, and Black denim, long vest with a wide brimmed collar and a chained clasp in front. He wore Black denim jean pants with Gray fading strips all over the pants legs, a large, wide, Black, two-row rivet belt around his waist and chains hanging from both pockets, and Black Timberland boots. His jewelry was a gold chain with two gold hoops in the right ear and two gold studs in the left ear, and a Rolex. His hair was bind at the lower half of his long hair.
"It's not much, ittai,"
"Don't be modest. You look nice in all your clothes to be truthful." Neji's blush became visible and gave her a smile.
"Arigato, Hinata-chan,"
"Doitashimashite…-Gasp- Ooi! That's the first time you added 'chan' to my name!" Hinata was smiling brightly at her cousin who only smirked at her.
"Did I, Hinata-hime? Hmph, must have slipped my mind." He dodged a flying strawberry towards his head and chuckled at the slightly fuming princess, though she had a smile on her face as well.
She sits at the table with her breakfast and continues eating with small talk about today ventures.
"Anna, I was thinking that we go on a carriage ride through the city, go out to eat and go to Hanaku Park to enjoy the scene."
"Hmm, sounds nice, though fairly simple. Any other ideas that might last us the full day?"
"You want to spend the full day with me?" Hinata had shock and surprise in her tone.
"Nani? You don't want me to?"
"Ara! It's not that, but it shocked me that you would spend so much of your time with me and my friends." It really did! Most of Neji's time was spent with his team, his homework, school and training. He barely sees the time to spend it with Hinata, not that he doesn't try.
"Ano, we're a family, ma?"
"Raito,"
"Anna, it would seem logical that I should spend some of my time with the people that I love, and that means you, Hinata-hime." He smiled warmly towards her, and she did the same.
"Arigato, Neji-niisan. Ashiteru datte,"
"Anna, back to the question: Any other ideas?"
"Hmmmm…I guess we could go to Hellion's Arcade & Sushi Bar and Grill. We could play games and eat lunch there as well."
"Killing two birds with one stone. Good idea, Hinata-hime,"
"Shai, Neji-niisan," They finished their breakfast, gathered their light coat and jacket for the cool day, Neji's a simple denim jacket and Hinata's a Black, civil war military-styled long coat, wallets and purse, and headed out to the door until Hinata's cell phone rang. She answered it to hear Gaara's voice and told her that they were down the street. She told him that she and Neji were already to the door, thus saying their goodbyes, Hinata and Neji continuing their walk to the door.
Naruto and the group finally came up to the house to see Hinata and Neji already out the front door. They climbed in the SUV with Neji going to the back with Sasuke, Kiba, and Akamaru barking playfully, and Hinata by the door. They all greeted as always, Akamaru greeted by jumping on Hinata's lap and licking her cheek, laughs and giggles from Hinata, and soon they pulled off to the streets. Talk and gossip traveled through the drive as well as compliments on the attire everyone wore.
Naruto wore an all Black bondage two-piece jacket and pants with Orange stitchings: The jacket had a rivet detail going from his shoulders down to the cuffs and two chains that cross from the shoulders blades to his forearms with the Kyubii and flames on the back and his Konoha headband on his right arm. Underneath the jacket was a Black mesh shirt with bondage buckle sleeves. The baggy cargo bondage pants had a rivet detail on both sides of legs from the pockets down to the cuffs of the legs, an Orange belt with a Konoha belt buckle in flames, chains crossing the back to the front, and Black Timberland boots. For jewelry, he wore three Silver huggy earrings in each ear, bondage cuffs and a Black dog collar with spikes. His hair was still as wild and spiky as ever.
Gaara was in the EGA mode as well wearing a Dark Red two-piece coat and pants: The trench coat had a cape cover over the shoulders, high collar with rivets, and three rows of rivets travel and fan out down the back. The front's a button down, had two sew bondage straps on the left side and D rings with a chain crossing over to the next, making and 'X' which makes six chains in total in a three 'X' ladder design. Underneath was a simple Black long-sleeved shirt. The pants he wore were pleated, had a Black belt with a Silver Roman cross belt buckle, and he wore Dark Red dress lacing shoes. For jewelry, he wore Roman cross earrings and choker with a Black strip. His shoulder-length hair was kept in a loose ponytail, leaving a few strains of hair to fly from his head.
Sakura wore a Red, short, shoulder-less, polo neck shirt that shows off her mid-drift with a Black, shoulder-cape-covered, furless parka, and Navy Blue jeans with a Red belt and three inch heel boots. For jewelry, she a heart-shaped gold locket, a pair of large hoop earrings with a monogram in the hoop: The right earring said 'Cherry', the other said 'Blossom'. Moreover, she wore a solid gold bracelet. Her place her Konoha headband on top of her head as always with her back length hair hanging gracefully as silk.
Kiba wore a Black short-sleeved button shirt with designs of a black strap with a series of D-rings sewn to the shirt, and a Black jacket with chains hangs from the shoulder blades to the front upper pockets. He wore Black cargo shorts with stops mid-calf with a Black and Red pinstripe trimming on the sides, a matching belt, and a chain looped through one pocket loop and hanging from his pocket. For shoes, he wore Black and Red pinstripe All-Star converse. For jewelry, he wore his pyramid-spiked dog collar with 'FANG' printed on it, two of his spiked bondage bracelets and a single huggy earring on the top of his left ear.
Akamaru wore a spiked dog collar with his name in studs and had a sliver earring in his left ear.
Finally, we're down to Sasuke who wore a long-sleeved polo neck mesh shirt with a Black cotton vest, Black leather jacket and Black, breathable leather pants with Black, Gordon Rush's Saratoga designer boots that zips up and is covered by the suede flap that snaps on the outside of the shoes. For jewelry, he wore a gold chain crucifix, two studs of gold in each ear, and a gold plated, leather banded Movado watch.
They finally made it to Naruto's house, greeted by a few house cleaners, Jiraiya, and Minato, Naruto's father and the Yondaime Hokage. After informing his family where he will be and about, they left the house, walking through the streets with a powerful stride in their walk yet a peaceful aura in their assemblage. As they cruise the sidewalks, they received many glances, some glares, others supportive, a few not caring, and many of them dreamingly, mostly for the boys.
Standing in front and always taking led were Hinata and Gaara, showing their status of the group as they made their scene through the day. They linked hand-and-hand with each other, showing some appreciation for being by each other's side. Neji, though he doesn't show it, was becoming quite jealous of those two holding hands. Where did Gaara get off on thinking he could hold Hinata's hand, becoming so friendly with her? Neji believed he should have that right to hold her hand and be that close. No one deserves to be that close to Hinata but him and only him. Neji was staring daggers at Gaara's head, feeling nothing but anger and jealous towards the sand jinchūriki.
As if a realization has struck his mind, he inwardly shook his head of his feelings and thoughts. What was going on in his mind? He never felt that way towards Gaara, or Hinata for that matter. Though they have their spats, he considered Gaara a small part of the family, sort of like another younger cousin, and it made him happy that Gaara could make Hinata happy as well as him. He never felt jealously of anger towards him whenever he was around Hinata, so why did his mind and feelings overflow with such…hostility towards Gaara just by holding Hinata's hand, and now of all days. Neji shaken those unnecessary thoughts from his mind and pretend as if it never happened.
An hour has pasted and they made it to a stable where all the horses and carriages were stored and brought to rest. Naruto entered a building next to the stable and stood in front of the front counter to see a man who looks of late-twenties and with Dark Brown hair.
"Konnichiwa, Kurusa-san!" The gentlemanly-looking man looked up to Naruto with smile.
"Haha! Konnichiwa, Naruto-san! How are ya, my boy?" A med-deep voice emitted from him with a cheerful tone when he saw the young boy. Hiroshi Kurusa, owner of The Kurusa's Stables and Carriages, a good friend of the family and business provider for Minato. He may look 27, or 28, but he's actually in his mid-thirties and is quite handsome.
"I'm fine, as always,"
"Uh-huh, and I see ya still in that 'Goth' phase of yours."
"IT IS NOT A PHASE!!" Hiroshi rolled his eyes whereas Naruto's friends shook their heads in embarrassment from the fuming fox boy. Naruto takes things too seriously for his age.
"Calm down, Naruto-san, clam down. You take things too far over your head." He chuckled at the growling blond. "Yoshi, so what can I do for ya?"
Calming down, Naruto asked for a triple seating carriage for his friends and a full view of Downtown. They chose the carriage to ride in and the horse to pull it. Soon everything was setup and Ami, a Black, female Clydesdale with a young man named Horace as the driver, pulled out a Black and Gold carriage. Hinata, being a lover of horses, asked to pet Ami. Given permission, Hinata stood in front of her and rubbed up and down Ami's snout. She neighed and gently nudged Hinata cheek, scaring Hinata until she laughed from all the little stubby hairs caressing her cheek. Gaara watched the scene, and had a small smile on his face. It always fills his heart with happiness to see her smile, and there is not a day that he wouldn't give everything he had just to see her beautiful, warm smile.
After Ami and Hinata's little greeting, everyone climbed on to the carriage with Sasuke, Sakura, and Naruto seating in the way back, Neji, Kiba, and Akamaru in Kiba's lap seating and facing Sasuke, Sakura, and Naruto, and Gaara and Hinata in front, facing the world ahead together. They rode on through the busy streets, taking in the sights and places they been to or haven't seen yet. It was nice seeing the old and new of Downtown Konoha, a city of great culture, history and prosperity, a city of hidden talents, secrets, and legends. The city itself has become many things through the years: prosperous, growing, living, surviving. These are the very things needed in everyday life as a civilian and as a shinobi and kunoichi.
The land holds great truths of itself, truths that makes people proud to be people of The Land of Fire and villagers of The Hidden Leaf Village. Gaara, Hinata, Naruto and the rest are proud to be part of this village, part of their home, and proud to protect their home with everything they have in their bodies and hearts. They have many precious people to protect and they wouldn't think any differently than to protect those people so dear to the village and them. Thinking about all the people she cared about and would protect, Hinata had a feeling of nostalgia roaming through her heart, knowing that these people will be missed, but never forgotten, and she's happy to have as much time as she possibly could with them.
"Oi, Gaara-kun?"
"Hai?" Gaara turned towards Hinata to see her looking up in the sky.
"Don't you feel happy?" Gaara had a questionable look on his face, but somehow he understood her meaning. He too looked up to the sky and grasped Hinata's hand into his own hand, squeezing it lightly and she squeezed back.
"Hai…I do," Hinata smiled with eyes closed and lean against Gaara's left shoulder. Gaara leaned his head on her head, his eyes still on the bright blue cool sky of Konoha.
After their small tour, they finally came up to Hellion's Arcade & Sushi Bar and Grill. They got off the carriage, Naruto tipping Horace for the smooth ride, and made a dash for the entry, bursting through the door to see games out the whazoo and many people roaming through. Heavy Metal music blasted through the entry place and many danced and jumped around than played the games there. The Shadows Casted walked through as if a regular old joint and day, but Hellion's was actually one of the newest and most popular arcade and restaurant in all of Konoha. Not a lot of teens could get in, not that it's some sort of club, or that they need reservations, but because it can prove quite expensive, the restaurant mostly. To put it simply, anyone who got money to splurge can enjoy, anyone who doesn't even have fifty ryo on them shouldn't even bother trying.
They walked up to the counter clerk to get some tokens for the games. Once they got the tokens, everyone went in a separate group: Gaara, Hinata, and Naruto in one group, Neji, Sasuke, Kiba, and Sakura in the other. Going through a sea of people, Gaara and his group found what they were looking for.
DANCE DANCE REVOLUTION XVE (Xtreme Virtual Evolution)!!
"HAAIIII!!" They all shouted and rushed over to their large dancing field (This DDR is slightly different. There are still the footpads and arrows, but now there's a larger and wider platform with more pads and arrows for more free ranging moves so not to confine them in one spot.). First up were Gaara and Naruto with their song 'Axel F' by Crazy Frog, and set at a med-high speed. As soon as the music started, they were ready. Seeing the first two arrows, they set themselves in motion and followed the beat in perfect sequence and pattern. They jumped back, stepped right, slid left, hopped forward, crisscrossed and flipped back. Everyone in the arcade crowded around them, cheering on their acrobatic moves and Hip-Hop stunts. Hinata was jumping and cheering with the rest of them. The music was in the climax and Naruto and Gaara went into the Matrix move, dodging bullets in slow motion, and everyone cheered and screamed at their stunt. When the climax hit its peak, the arrows appeared again and they went back to dancing, jumping, sliding, and Hip Hopping.
When the music reached the end, they jumped in the air, turned and land with feet apart, fists balled at the sides, and smirks showing their smugness. Everyone clapped and cheered as they bowed to their audience. They looked back to see who had the high score and Naruto win with a grade AA whereas Gaara had a grade A.
"I knew I missed a step somewhere." Spoke Gaara.
"Oi, great challenge though." Said Naruto as he typed in his initials.
"Un," Now it was Hinata and Naruto's turn to face off with their choice of 'Blue Mountain (Activa Remix)' by Reddshift & Van Der Vieuten and set at a regular speed. Hinata gave Gaara her coat before she stepped on. They music played and when they saw the first arrow, they were off. Right, left, back corner left, front, jump, slide up, slide right: They went through the motions with prefect coordination, Hinata having a better attribute than Naruto. Hinata is very flexible and count that with her ninja training and her small built, she had an easy advantage for speed and mobility. Naruto tried to keep up, but it was hard trying to with so many arrows at once. Hinata, on the other hand, looked like a pro and she didn't even look like she was trying! Her ninja training was seriously paying off. At the end of the finally beat, they stood with their left foot in front the right, Hinata with her hand on her hip and Naruto looking as if he was trying to catch his breath. The score came up and it showed Hinata with a grade AAA!! The best score ever to achieve! Everyone cheered her on as Hinata placed her initials on the score broad, second place to initials RLE.
For a moment, Hinata looked at the first place winner with the high score, but also looked at the initials. They looked oddly familiar. She was going to investigate further until Gaara took Naruto's place beside her. Now it was Gaara and Hinata and she already knew the perfect song for them: 'Bailando' by Crazy Frog. Placing the token in and finding the song, they readied themselves for the first beat and arrow. The music played, the arrows came, and Hinata and Gaara were off and at a great start. The movements became harder and they were still able to keep up, not miss a beat or move. Crowds cheered and hooted at their agility and mobility, staying in perfect sequence and motion with each other as if really dancing on a dance floor. The people were amazed at how talented they were at this game and many stared in awe of their gracefulness.
Far off corner, many cheers and yells could be heard from the crowd around the DDR console. Neji, Sasuke, Sakura and Kiba with Akamaru on his head turned towards the rushing teens from their game to the filling crowd, cheering at another stunt.
"Oi, isn't that where Naruto, Gaara, and Hinata are?" asked Sakura.
"Un, let's go see," spoke Sasuke, thus they dropped the game they were playing and went over to the crowd.
Through many pushes and shoves, Kiba, Sasuke, Sakura, and Neji finally came up front to see the display before them, somewhat surprised by what they are seeing, mostly Neji. Neji looked in amazement upon seeing his cousin on the console. He didn't know that she could move so well and with grace in her steps. Every twist and turn was on the mark and she didn't look half as tired as she should. She made a ballet spin and jumped in the air, lading on her feet shoulder-length apart. Neji slightly blushed at her movements. She looked as if an angel dancing up there, moving without so much as a break from her stride. Neji was in awe of her agility and speed, never knowing that Hinata had such grace about her. She actually looked more beautiful now than ever, making his blush even more visible. He coughed into his hand to subdue his blush and looked at his cousin move with Gaara, hitting her mark exactly as it came up.
The music ended with Hinata and Gaara bent back with the left hand as the beam and the right arm pointing to the air. Everyone jumped and cheered, and Hinata and Gaara stood and bowed to the audience. Hinata glanced around and spotted her cousin who had a big smile on his face as he clapped for her. She blushed and smiled back. They turned to see their score and to everyone's surprise, it was a tie! Grade AAA for both, a feat never before seen by two people at the same time!! However, Hinata had a higher score than Gaara so she was the winner to everyone's surprise. They typed in the initials with Hinata still in second and now Gaara in third. Entering their names, they looked at their high score on the boards and were for such measurable feats. Hinata turned towards Gaara and gave him a big hug, as he did so as well, laughing, giggling, and just having fun. They stepped down from the console and rushed over to their friends.
"Neji-niisan! Did you see? Did you see?" She hopped in front of him as if a six-year-old strung on sugar.
Neji chuckled and placed a hand on her shoulder to calm her down. "Hai, I saw," He hugged her around her neck and placed a chaste kiss on her cheek. "Hinata-hime, that was amazing. You've done well." Hinata blushed from the kiss and the compliment and soon she threw him a bright smile.
"Domo arigato, Neji-niisan!" She hugged him tightly, which almost caused him to lose breath seeing how tight she was squeezing him. Informing her that he was losing consciousness, Hinata released her slightly blue cousin and bashfully apologized.
"Ashikarazu, Neji-niisan,"
"It's…fine. Hehehehe," Neji looked up to the screen and had a mildly surprised look on his face. "Anna, he finally made a score hard to beat."
Hinata looked up at the screen and back at Neji. "You know someone on the screen?"
"Un, and you should too, by his initials."
"Which one?"
"RLE. Don't you recognize them? The initials are Rock Lee's and that's his high score."
"NO WAY!!" shouted Naruto, Gaara, Kiba, and Sasuke. They listened, or for better terms, 'eavesdropped' on Hinata and Neji's conversation about the high scorer of the game. Imagine the shocked, petrified looks on their faces to hear that Rock Lee got game in DDR.
"Since when did Rock Lee get so good at games?" asked Naruto.
"He's always been good, he just loves DDR more than the others, and furthermore, have you guys ever seen him play any games against you?" asked Neji.
"Ano, ina," spoke Kiba.
"Then there's your answer. You never thought he was good at games because you never seen him play or play against you. Demo, he's actually quite good, and has beaten me in a few games." Getting shocked faces and silence, he chuckled and he with everyone else went through the rest of the time playing games and setting high scores while winning a few counter prizes.
A moment of fun games and friendly challenges, which resulted in bickering, bantering, and lots of wrestling from Naruto and Sasuke, Gaara included, the Shadows Casted decided that it was lunchtime and went in search of an elevator. Finding their transport to the second floor, they climbed aboard, hit the button and rode up to their delicious destination.
-Bing- The elevator reached it floor and opened to large and fun restaurant in front of them. To the side, they saw a sushi bar and in front were grills and hot stoves all around. Many teens, young and older, filled the place but not to the brim. Many were talkative as others just sat and relaxed with the company they had.
"Oi, over here, young ones!" Everyone turned their heads to see a young Black-haired hostess to the right of them. They walked over and greeted her as she greeted them.
"Yoi gogo! I'm Yukomo, and I will be your okami for this afternoon. How many are in your group?"
"Eight," spoke Gaara.
"Eight?" She counted them and became more confused. "Demo, there's only seven of—?"
"Bark, bark!"
"Eh??" Yukomo looked down and saw the explanation of the extra count. "Awwwe, how cute!" She squatted down to pet Akamura, much to his content. He's always been a sucker for pretty girls, much as Kiba. She stood back up and faced the group. "Yoi, will you take the bar or the grill?"
"Grill," Everyone spoke at the same time.
"Yoshi, follow me," She pulled out seven menus and head for a clear grill for everyone to enjoy. They came up to an empty one and they all sat in their place with a menu in the hands, except for Akamura since he doesn't have opposable thumbs. "Your nakai, Kikuka, will come by to take your order for drinks and food. Your chorinin will come by shortly to prepare your lunch this afternoon. Arigato for coming to Hellion's and enjoy you stay." With a small bow, Yukomo left the teens to seek through the menus.
"That's strange," Sakura said.
"What is?" asked Naruto.
"Ano, to be frank, I have a jushi by that name, but it's weird because she lives in Kusagakure in the Land of Grass with her family, and even more so, we barely heard from them in nearly three years now."
"Ittai? Ano, I guess Kikuka is a popular name in our country."
"I guess you're right," Shortly after, a young Dark Pink-haired waitress dressed in a white dress shirt, black bustier, and a black mini skirt with her long and flowing hair down her back came up to them with a beautiful smile and Dark Green eyes that brighten the room with its illumination. To everyone's shock, she looked almost like Sakura!!
"Yoi gogo, everyone. I'm Kikuka and I will be—-Gasp- Aremaa!! Sakura?!" She shouted in shock and joy to see her younger cousin. Sakura looked at her, her eyes as wide as saucers as her jaw nearly dropped to the floor.
"Yoi shu!! Kikuka?!"
-GASP!!-
They went into a high-pitched squeal, nearly making the boys go deaf from their powerful vocal cords, poor Kiba and Akamura taking the most assault of the screams. Sakura jumped from her chair and ran to her cousin, hugging her with her might and heart, Kikuka the same. After many screams, giggles and laughter, the girls finally calm down to turned to the rest who were slightly embarrassed from the outburst but also curious.
"Everyone, this is my jushi, Haruno-Riko Kikuka,"
"Konnichiwa, Kikuka-san," spoke Sasuke who were closer to the two. Kikuka looked at Sasuke and had anime hearts pumping in her eyes as a small blush appeared. Sasuke stood up, bowed, and put his hand out to shake hers and she humbly obliged. "I'm Uchiha Sasuke. It's very nice to meet you."
"Likewise," Kikuka spoke in a deep, gentle tone, a tone used in meaning to be flirtatious, or seductive, much to Sasuke's and a few other's surprise, and to Sakura's annoyance. Sakura gently cough in her fist to get her cousin's attention, which worked, and pulled her cousin to the side and down to whisper in her ear.
"Kiku-chan…Sasuke-kun is thirteen years old," Kikuka looked at her cousin shocked. To her, Sasuke looked as if he was fifteen at the least.
"For real?!"
"Hai, and you are sixteen and a chunin, meaning you're three years under your league and would be too much for the boy. Furthermore, I would very much appreciate it if you didn't use your devilish flirtatious ways to seduce the poor boy into submission. I know how you are with boys and men alike, so please, don't do it. Besides, I like Sasuke and you can't have him, so neyah." Sakura playfully stuck out her tongue at Kikuka, making her flabbergasted by the act and soon Kikuka put her in a headlock full of knoggies, much to Sakura's dismay, but nonetheless, they laughed together.
After their 'talk', they returned to the others. "Yoshi, Kiku-chan, let me introduce you to my good friends. You met Sasuke-kun," She towards him and he nodded back. "Over here is Inuzuka Kiba, and his pet and friend, Akamaru." Kikuka turned to her right to face Kiba as he stood and bowed for her. Kikuka bowed back and they shook hands.
"It's nice to meet you,"
"You too," Kiba sat down, and Sakura and Kikuka went over to Neji.
"This fine young man is Hyuga Neji," Neji lightly blushed at Sakura's compliment, "And beside him is his ichiban-jumai, Hyuga Hinata." They stood and bowed towards Kikuka, as she did the same, and Neji shook her hand first.
"Pleased to meet you,"
"Pleasure's all mine," She smiled warmly at him, making his blush slightly more visible. They moved over to Hinata and shook hands.
"Happy to meet another 'Sakura' in the family,"
"Arigato, and I'm happy to meet someone kawaii as you. You're too cute!" Hinata had a big blush from such a compliment.
"A-Arigato," Kikuka giggled at the cute display and she and Sakura went over to Gaara.
"This handsome Red-head is Sabaku no Gaara. He's originally from the Land of Wind but lives here and goes to Konoha Middle School with us."
"I see," Gaara, with a small blush on his face from Sakura's compliment, stood, bowed and shook her hand.
"Nice to meet you,"
"Oyaoya! What a nice deep voice you have." At that moment, Gaara's blush became bigger and much more noticeable, much to his dismay as a few of his friends snickered. However, a few 'Evil Eye's towards their way had them silenced in no time, though it didn't stop their smiling faces. Sakura nudged her cousin's arm.
"Kiku-chan! You're embarrassing Gaara-kun!" She spoke in a hushed whisper.
"Oh stop. It's just a compliment,"
"And a bold one at that. Now apologize,"
"Yoshi, yoshi," She smiled towards Gaara who still has some reminisce of his blush. My Lord, he's so cute! "Gaara-san, I apologize if a spoke out of terms with you."
"Ina, it's fine. It's just surprising, that's all,"
"I'm glad," Kikuka and Sakura walked over to the last person of the table, with you his bright Blond hair and dazzling Blue eyes, he was pretty much self-explanatory.
"And here is a boy who needs no introduction since he makes them himself."
"Oya, I know. Uzumaki Naruto, son to the Yondaime Hokage, and one of the cutest boys I have ever met. It is an honor to meet you, Naruto-san." She bowed graciously and gave a seductive smirk to him, making him blush at her compliment and her suggestive smile. He then gave a playful grin to her, grabbed her hand and kissed it.
"If anything, I'm honored to meet you, Kiku-chan," Now it was Kikuka's turn to blush at Naruto's smart and bold move. His friends looked at him shocked and amazed at how Naruto turned the tables. Who knew Naruto could be such a ladies' man?
"My, my, Sakura-chan, he is a good one."
"More like a ham," said Sakura as she crossed her arms under her developing chest.
"Am not!" said Naruto.
"Are too!"
"You're cruel,"
"And you're silly. Now sit," Naruto humphed with a smile on his face and sat in his chair.
"Now that the intros are done, can we order now?" spoke Kiba, his stomach growling in responds.
"Ara! Ashikarazu. What would you all like?" asked Kikuka. After taking the orders from drinks and foods, she left proclaiming that the drinks will be there in less than six minutes and the chef will be there in twenty minutes, more or less.
Less than six minutes has passed and everyone received their drinks with a few appetizers to clam their growling bellies. After what seemed like fifteen minutes, a chef with a cheerful expression and Jet Black hair came down with a tray of raw meats, seafood, veggies, and rice. The grill was already set and all was done was placing the meats and veggies on the grill. During the preparation of their lunches, the chef preformed many of stunts and tricks: flipping knives in the air, flinging food in open mouths, cutting, chopping, and even poured wine on one of the dishes to bring forth flames on the grill, getting 'Whoa's and 'Cool's from his entertained customers.
After a wonderful performance and prepared meals, they ate, had fun, and paid the bill for the meal. Before they left, they were stopped by Kikuka, saying her shift was over, and asked if she could join them. 'The more, the merrier!' Naruto said, as he always open for more friends and people to join the group. They thought on walking towards the park until to their surprise, the same carriage that brought them there was on the other side of the street. They crossed the street to the carriage, Naruto asking why Horace was still here.
"Hiroshi asked me to stay here for you guys to see if you needed a ride back home."
"Ina, but we will need a ride to Hanaku Park."
"That much I can do," Everyone climbed aboard the carriage, Gaara and Hinata back in the same place, and they rode on to the park. On the way, Kikuka and Sakura talked about her being back in Konoha.
"When did you get back?"
"Two months ago. We wanted to prepare our house and ourselves before we announce our stay in Konoha."
"-Gasp- You're staying?!"
"Yup!" The girls shared another round of high-pitched squeals and shrieks, nearly killing Kiba and Akamaru with their screams.
"Redi-zu! Onegai! Stop the screaming!" shouted poor Kiba as he held his ringing ears in his hands.
"Sumimasen," The girls bashfully apologized for their outburst, but it couldn't be helped. Sakura and Kikuka are like sisters to each other. Ever since Sakura was three, Kikuka became the big sister Sakura always wanted and loved. They were best friends until the time it came for her family to move, leaving for nearly three years and barely said a word to each other. They talked on the phone a few times, but soon it was just on a whim that they even pick up the phone to call each other. Nevertheless, they missed each other greatly and were surprised to meet each other in an unlikely place.
"Anna, what school are you going to now?"
"I'm at the Academy,"
"-Gasp- So cool! My school is down two blocks from yours. You can pick me up and drive me home after school."
"That's a great idea. That way I can spend some time with you and see how Oba and Oji (Aunt and Uncle – Humor; Older) are doing. How are they now?"
"They're fine: doing missions, working fine jobs, keeping the land, etc. It's the usual norm. What about you?"
"Haha and Chichi (Mother and Father – Humor) decided that being far from the lands can prove troublesome over the years, so we came back on the account to stay close to our land…and our family."
"Ittai?"
"Ittai," They hugged in their sisterly embrace, happy to be together again.
"Awwwwe, group hug!" shouted Kiba as he hugged both Sakura and Kikuka together tightly; the girls shrieked and giggled under the affectionate dog boy and hugged him back, giving him a peck on the cheek that sent his cheeks blazing red, whereas Naruto's were red with jealousy.
The group finally made it to the park, seeing a few people and some bizarre statues and portraits. Hanaku Park is a special arts park that displays work of arts, street and music performers. Though it was getting dark, it was still early for performances to come out, so Hinata, Gaara, and their friends decided to walk through and admire the park and the Sakura trees in bloom. Many flowerbeds were placed it their sections, each a different color, scent, size and shape. The wind blew its gentle breeze and the petals into a dance, circling them in their dance of peace and serenity, the fragrance calming minds and bodies with it alluring zest.
They walked through a hedge walkway, the hedges stopping at their shoulders, and came up to an archway that seems to lead through a maze of rose bushes. To say it was beautiful would do it no justice. The look of it only seemed to bring you to a fantasy world that would lead you to your dreams in the end of the path. They walked through, Neji and Sasuke taking the lead and making small talk, Naruto and Kiba in a fit of laughs and loud talk, Sakura and Kikuka talking up a storm, and Gaara and Hinata in the back, Hinata holding Gaara's arm and enjoying the company she has with him, Gaara the same.
A few hours of walking and talking helped past the time go by, the lampposts and the moon brightening their way through the large maze, but for Gaara it started to get boring and looked towards his side to see Hinata smiling and her eyes front. He smiled too, and soon he saw an opening for Hinata and him to escape their friends. As soon as he was in front of the archway, he rushed through, pulling poor Hinata with him who gasped and nearly lost her footing if Gaara hadn't have caught her. Standing closely in his embrace, she was shocked at his behavior to say the least.
"Gaara-kun, what's going…?"
"Shhhhhh," He placed his forefinger in front of her soft lips and listened for his friends' voices and laughter fade away. As sure as he didn't hear them anymore, he peek out to see that they have long left them behind, giving Gaara the chance to lead Hinata into another path.
"Gaara-kun, what's going on? Where are you taking me?" She asked in a hush tone, curious about her best friend's sudden change in behavior, as he pulled her through a series of pathways through the maze.
"Somewhere special," He lightly squeezed her hand as he spoke. "Trust me," Her heart raced with anticipation and nervousness, but she trusted Gaara with all her heart and knew Gaara would never do anything to harm her.
"I do," She squeezed his hand back and walked up to his side as he guided her through. Barely any lampposts lit their way, only the moon for light, but it was enough. Through twists and turns, they came up to a dead end, much to Hinata's confusion.
"Ummmm, Gaara-kun?"
"Hold on. You'll see," He placed his hands in the release sign and shouted out. "Kai!" As curtains, the rose bush lifted apart to reveal a rounded Oak door with iron door handles. Gaara grabbed the handle, pushed it down, and pushed the door open to reveal a place of pure amazement.
"-Gasp!-" Hinata was shocked at what she saw. Opening the door revealed to her a glass dome…a humungous glass dome…big enough to cover the entire maze, and yet all of it is held behind that tiny door that they walked through. Walking her in, Gaara closed and locked the door; the outside hid itself from the outside world so it would still look like a dead end and no one would suspect a thing. He walked to her side to see her shocked face, completely in awe of such a spectacular sight. The dome was lit brightly to show and give off a Red and Gold glow, the moon shining down on them in splendor.
The floor was covered in Red marble and had White marble pillars that held a second floor that's surrounded in Victorian tables and chairs, and selves upon selves of books and scrolls for all ages. The first floor was more beautiful than the second floor, the same chairs and tables sitting by the walls and behind the pillars is illuminated under soft, bright lights. Craved, painted and laminated into the marble floor were thousands of beautiful flowers: rare, exotic, wild, and simply outstanding. By the walls were extra large wild flowers, unseen by the world of today and truly rare in her eyes.
The outside corners with the pillars of the floor were dug and craved deep for a canal to run through it, the pillars standing in the water. A walkway leveled with the floor provided itself as a bridge with metals rails over the running water, Koi fish swimming freely in it and different species: Kawarimono, Gin Matsuba, and Platinum Ogon.
However, what truly caught Hinata's eye was the large golden fountain, filling the canal with its water from the openings below. The craving, structure and color were enough for Hinata to fall in love it. The sight alone drew her near it, but Gaara decided to take care of that part as he and Hinata crossed the walkway to the open floor, Hinata's still trying to catch her breath for the place has left her breathless. She couldn't believe where she was right now because to her, it looked so much as heaven.
"Gaara-kun…This…I…Oyaoya,"
"I know. It's beautiful,"
"Oh Gaara-kun, how did you came across all this?" They stood in the center of the floor, the moon coming just above them.
"Oya, I didn't come across it. It was built for us."
"Ara?"
"It was built. I built it…for us," He looked into her surprised wide eyes.
"You built this?"
"Not alone. Naruto with Jiraiya-sama and the Hokage helped me build it. It's meant to be a hangout spot for our friends, but tonight, I want it to be just for us. You are the first to see this and I want you to enjoy it with me." Hinata looked into his eyes, seeing a flame of love and friendship in them. She smiled and hugged him around his neck and he hugged her back.
"Domo arigato, Gaara-kun. This is the most wonderful surprise anyone has ever given me."
"Doitashimashite, Hinata-sama. Now's the time to enjoy this night fully. -Clap, Clap-," With the clap of his hands, soft and gentle music emitted from above, a beautiful song under the moonlight. Hinata giggled and went along with Gaara. Gaara bowed to his lady and Hinata curtsy to her gentleman. Coming close to each other, Gaara placed his hand on her waist as Hinata placed her hand on his shoulder, his left hand out and she placed her right hand in his hand. Hearing the music hit a new measure, Gaara and Hinata waltzed with the music, moving in smooth elegance and grace, though they never truly learned how to waltz. It was something they taught themselves for the fun of it, but over time, they've become quite in tune with the dance and moves, gliding with the music as air glides through their lungs. Over time, they grew to love the waltz, but never found the time to do it until now.
Circling the floor, they look into each other's eyes, their hearts in their eyes as they looked deep into the depths of their gorgeous gaze. It's one of the things they loved about the waltz: how it can make your troubles and worries seemingly fade away just by looking into the eyes of the one you love, or maybe it's just how they feel when they dance with each other. Using his left hand, Gaara spun Hinata in a clockwise motion and pulled her back to him, continuing with their gentle dance under the moonlight.
Hinata knew Gaara for a long time, but she has never known him to be a romantic. He usually acts cold and distant in a few people's eyes, sometimes in Hinata's eyes, but tonight, he's as every bit as charming and romantic as the princes in her fairy tale books. It was the perfect setting for romance: Gaara was her Prince Charming, and dancing in the moonlight was the perfect bonus of the whole night.
This was how she imagined herself when she was a little girl: to dance in a ballroom, surrounded by beauty in every corner and to dance with the man that she loved. Gaara was that man, and though she already loved him, she couldn't help but love him even more. Looking into his eyes swept away all emotions but one and it shined in her eyes like a thousands moons. Oh Gaara, if only you knew how much I truly love you.
Gaara looked into the eyes of an angel, a beautiful rose, and in his mind, he knew he was blessed to have her by his side for no one could show him this much care, joy, and love in their eyes as she did. Oh Hinata, I love you so much. That's what he would have said if he had the courage. He wanted to tell her so very much how he felt about her, how much he wanted to shout it to the world how much he loved this woman in his arms, but alas…fear has a way to rear its ugly head in the most inappropriate times.
So close, yet so far. It's heartbreaking how you want to show your feelings only to have fear pull you back. He may have the courage to laugh, the courage to sing, the courage to speak, he even has the very courage to fight and die in battle. However, when it came to the matters of the heart, the darkness in his mind and heart creeps slowly around him, chaining him to the ground in the dark cavern that is his mind, held down to the ground by the chains of his mind, his doubts…his fears.
Nevertheless, even when that fear resides in his mind, with all his heart, he loves Hinata and not even his fear can change or take that away from him. One day, just one day, he will find his courage to say to her what has been in his heart for so long. He will find it and will accept what may come, but until then, he will enjoy this blissful heaven with Hinata as long as it takes.
As the music slowed it pace, Gaara spun Hinata out in arms-length and spun her again, pulling her close to his beating heart and standing in the center of the floor as the music ended. Now in silence, they gazed into each other's eyes, seeing the warmth, the happiness, and the love swimming deep within them. Hinata smiled, Gaara smiled back, and they pulled each other into a warm embrace, feeling just content to be in each other's arms.
"Gaara-kun?"
"Hai, Hinata-sama?"
"This has been the most wonderful night you have ever given me. Domo arigato, Gaara-kun,"
"Doitashimashite," They stayed in their embrace, taking in each other's body fragrance and relinquishing in their hold. "C'mon, everyone might get worried about where we are. We should leave,"
"…-Sigh- Yoshi," But she didn't release her hold, neither did Gaara. It was a few more minutes before their bodies relaxed and they pulled from each other's arms, feeling the cool wind coming in between them. Gaara held her hand and walked her over to another walkway beside the fountain. Behind the fountain appeared to be a Golden Age Ice Cream Shoppe and drink bar.
"Gaara-kun! What's this?" Gaara looked back, then towards the Ice Cream bar.
"Oya, it's were we'll get our drinks and ice cream from and seat around as if in an actually bar. There's more to the place, but I have to show it to you later when we come back."
"Hmm…Yoi," They went far into the back until they saw another rounded Oak door. Gaara pushed the knob down and opened the door to a very different part of the maze. Gaara preformed the genjutsu Jiraiya taught him to make the door invisible, whereas Hinata was confused and slightly scared as to where they maybe.
"Gaara-kun?" He sensed the fear in her voice and came to her side, holding her hand.
"Don't worry, Hinata-sama, where right at the ended of the maze. See," Gaara points to the archway out of the maze. Hinata was relieved and calmed herself from her nervousness. "Now, Hinata-sama, before we go, I need you to keep this a secret. You are the first, besides Naruto, the Hokage, Jiraiya-sama and I, to know of the hangout and we want it to be a surprise to everyone. Promise that you won't say anything."
"I promise,"
"Pinky swear?" Gaara held out his pinky and Hinata hooked hers with his.
"Pinky swear," Making their pact, they walked out together to see in the ended their friends chatting and waiting. They looked their way and were slightly annoyed.
"You guys, where have you been?! We waited for nearly two hours for you two!" spoke Naruto in a huff.
"Sumimasen, Naruto-kun. Hinata-sama and I were talking and we were so wrapped up in the conversation that we lost track of you and the way of the maze. We're sorry for making you guys wait."
"Oya, yoi," Naruto and the others were satisfied, but Neji wasn't fully buying the story. Surely, it was a big maze, but you couldn't get lost in it for nearly two hours, and something bothered him just as much with Gaara's story.
"Hinata-sama, why didn't you use your Byakugan?" A serious tone when he knows something's amiss. Now Hinata's cheeks were tinted pink and she didn't know if she could answer without stuttering, but before she could…
"Wait a damn minute." Hinata looked at Gaara, shocked that he curses so bluntly in front of her family. "You mean to tell me that we could have been out of here in less time if you used your kekkei genkai?" Gaara sound annoyed with a slight glare, and from right then, she knew to play along by looking down with a bigger blush then before. Gaara turned her towards him, grabbed her shoulders and shook her as he spoke.
"Hinata-sama! You mean to tell me that you could have used you Byakugan that whole time!" Gaara slightly shouted.
"I was scared! I couldn't think at the time! And you surely didn't bring up that fact about my kekkei genkai beforehand either!" Now it was Gaara's turn to blush in embarrassment as his friends snickered and giggled.
"Hinata and Gaara got looooost, Hinata and Gaara got looooost,"
"SHUT UP!!" They shouted towards Kiba and Naruto as they burst out laughing and rolling on the ground. Gaara had a whirlwind of sand around him, ready to strike Naruto and Kiba that shook in fear of the pain they were about to endure, until Hinata gently grabbed his hand.
"Calm down, Gaara-kun," With her gentle words alone, as quickly as the sand came, it disappeared. Gaara had a blank look on his face and turned towards Hinata.
"-Sigh- I'm tired. Let's go back."
"Sadaka," Hinata turned towards her friends. "Are we ready to go back?"
"Un," said everyone.
"Then let's go," And that said, they got up and walked through the park once again. Apparently, everyone, including Neji who's a human lie detector, believed their story and questioned them no further. Through the park, they've seen performers and musicians of the liking, and a few painters and drawers. Gaara, Hinata and Naruto had a portrait done together, sitting on a bench and in a relaxed pose. When the drawing was done, they asked the artist for two more copies, which the artists obliged since he didn't have a line of people waiting. That done, they each had a picture of themselves together, and then Gaara asked for a drawing of only him and Hinata. The artist obliged and Hinata and Gaara stood in front of the artist, facing each other in a simple, loose embrace, Gaara's hands on her waist and her hands on his biceps with a smile on Hinata's face and a small smile on Gaara's face.
Ten minutes or so, and their drawing was done with an extra copy. The picture was a double take; on the left, they were up close where you could see their smiles, and the other side with them in full body. Looking at their pictures, they were surprised at how life-like and beautiful it was: capturing every detail and the lighting was wonderful. Hinata and Gaara paid the artist handsomely for his work and the group continued out the park to see Horace, the carriage driver, waiting on their return. Everyone loaded up and rode on through the bright busy streets of Konoha, a sight that keeps getting better and better.
Riding in the front, Hinata held on to Gaara's hand, resting her head on his shoulder as she looked up to the big, full moon.
"Hinata-sama,"
"Hmm?"
"Don't you feel happy?" Her eyes widen slightly, and then went half-closed with a smile on her face and a sigh of happiness and bliss raining over her body, heart and soul.
"Hai, I do. With you by my side, in my mind, and my heart, I will always and forever be happy." Gaara release Hinata's hand, which surprised her, until he wrapped his arm around her and hugged her close as he gazed into her eyes.
"I feel the same way."
"You do?"
He kissed her cheek and returned to her eyes. "More than you ever know." Gaara watched as her eyes glazed over in a mist, and soon small, slow drops of tears came down her face as she smiled and he smiled back. Pulling each other in their embrace, they once again gazed up to the moon with it's beauty and majestic powers over the human heart.
Someday they will admitted their love for each other, someday they will find the power to speak with their hearts what their minds wouldn't allow, and someday they will be together, but tonight, they will share their love in friendship and trust, something they wouldn't trade for the world.
However, someday they'll admit it, someday they'll find their voices, and someday they'll find the inner strength to say the very words that could change their lives forever for to say these words would be to say them to their future lover and life partner for time without end …
Ashiteru
To Be Continued…
Author's Notes
Gaara: Gaara is becoming more open with his feelings with in the time of their hangout spot. Dancing with Hinata gave her a view of how loving and caring Gaara can truly be. His love for her will grow and progress, but at a slow pace. There would be no need to rush such feelings.
Kikuka Haruno-Riko: First cousin to Sakura Haruno and heiress to the Riko fortune. Three years of separation has brought her back to her home and favorite little play sister. Sixteen and a Chunin, she will be going on missions and the like, but right now she works in Hellion's Arcade & Sushi Bar and Grill for part time.
Dark Anty – I pray that this satisfy you reading pleasures, and again, I'm sorry for the late entry. The updates will be slow, sorry to say, but it will be because of the time and effort I put into it. Yes, I know Gaara was way out of character, but it fits into the whole romance deal and I liked seeing Gaara in such a romantic situation. Nonetheless, tell me how you like the fourth chapter. NO FLAMES!! T.T.F.N.