Umnia: I know I'm late, but Thank you! That means a lot to me.

Cat Beats: Luuuucckkkyyy! And long story short, I was suppose to go third, but the first person never showed, the second wasn't prepared, and I wanted to lie and say I wasn't prepared as well but I wanted to get it over with. So I had picked a topic that I didn't think still affected me- but it did. And then the tears started and the more I tried to stop the more I cried. And what's worse, my professor who was sweet and old gave me a hug and that just made me cry more lol. I'm such a big baby lol. Gah! Worse day ever! I'm super happy to know that you like the other characters and their stories. Hopefully I still got the magic since it's been a while lol.

SAMARA24: Thanks! :)

Guest1: You got me pumped lol. Firstly, thank you. I'm glad to hear you're liking the other characters as well. Second, Sadly this chapter won't be about Hinata- but next chapter will! And for the reappearance, just a tad bit longer. Sorry!

Guest2: Thank you! Sorry for the wait.

Guest3: That's good to hear! Here you go! Sorry for the wait.

Guest4: Your review makes me happy. :3 Sorry for the wait.

EAsis: Wait no more for I have returned. Please enjoy.

Neashia92: Awe, thank you! You will get a little bit of that in here but from a different perspective but more next chapter. I am so sorry for the wait!

Kichisaburo: I know! I'm sorry! Please enjoy and forgive!

AnonGuest0: Here you go!


Death dreams you don't forget
It's been a while since I dreamed this but
Even now when asleep I'll tread with care.

-Frightened Rabbit, Death dream.

.

.

The minute he steps outside, perfectly shaped eyebrows furrows in annoyance at the force of the cold air hitting him.

Pulling the scarf over his mouth, he stuffs his hands deep in his pockets and heads for the front gates.

As he walks, the soft crunch of dried leaves under his feet is faintly heard. It felt like forever since he last stepped foot outside. The warm breeze he's grown use to- the brilliant rays from the sun falling down upon him is a distant memory. Though most didn't quite enjoy the heat, people couldn't deny the comfort they felt when the light would hit them just right, filling them with warmth only the sun could bring. But now it's gone- replaced with this unwanted crisp breeze.

Lavender eyes bounce from one thing to another, taking in the changes. Instead of the bright verdant scenery of summer is a red and orange fiery scene before him. The leaves- some remains, still clinging to its branch, while majority of them had fallen- concealing the stone path.

Neji couldn't help but pause, his attention now on the large marble fountain. He moves closer, watching as the water trickles down, creating mesmerizing ripples.

He couldn't resist reaching out to pluck a shriveled leaf from it, the ice cold water freezing his fingers instantly. When his gaze lowers back down to the clear water, lavender eyes is what stares back at him.

People often mistake them for a soft grey, but when the light hits just right, it showcase the faint tint it carries. That's what usually draws people in. But whenever he catch a glimpse of them, he didn't see the beauty they claim them to be. Only of the man he despise.

His hand closes on the leaf, crumbling it in his palm before he slowly opens it and watch as the pieces are picked up by the crisp breeze.

Shaking his hand to rid the cold droplets, he turns half way towards the mansion, his gaze locking on the familiar office window. Dark eyebrows furrows as he sighs through his nose softly. He's late.

"Master Neji. Please!" Neji's attention turns, his gaze landing on his worried butler. Genjiro took a step closer, pleading. "A-Are you sure about this?"

"I'll be fine."

"At least allow me to get the car-"

"Genjiro." Neji cuts, startling him. After a moment, his voice softens. "I'll be fine."

Giving the older man one last look, he turn and proceeds on until he heard footsteps running after him.

Genjiro moves to stand in front of him, a frown set on his face as he sighs. "At least dress properly for this kind of weather." He lightly scolds, tightening the scarf around his neck. "Honestly. You were just sick with a cold. We don't need a repeat." He pulls out a pair of gloves from his back pocket and places them into his hands.

"Thank you."

Genjiro falls a few steps behind as he walks him to the large gates. As he opens the metal gates, Genjiro places a hand on his shoulder and gives him a stern look. "Don't stay out too long."

Meeting his gaze, Neji gives a short nod before walking.

A sigh escapes through Genjiro's lips as the frown written on his face slowly melts into a look of sorrow as he watch the teen grow farther until he was out of sight. As much as he wants to stop him- wrap his arms around him and persuade him back inside, he knew that isn't an option.

It's been years since the incidents, and the lingering effects is still present, he realize. It pains him to watch the young Hyuga continue to deny the hold darkness has over him. Always lulling him back in. Destroying him.

A distant look overcomes the older man as his attention drifted towards the mansion. Fragments of those dreadful days continues to haunt even him, he'll admit. But unlike Neji, he's ready to let all of it go. But he knew simply walking away isn't something that he could do. At least, not yet.

Giving a tired sigh, Genjiro makes his way towards the towering mansion.

.

.

The streets are empty. Silent. A few cars passing by every now and again, the noise comes alive and dying just as quick, leaving him to his haunting thoughts.

In quiet moments like these he doesn't trust his thoughts, so he would do his best to drown them out by focusing on his surroundings. Taking in every insignificant detail around him. For a while, it actually works.

His attention bounced to the trees that surrounds him first. His gaze trace their branches that sways with the assistance of the violent whispers of the wind, giving a light fiery shower of leaves.

Lavender eyes watch as the dried leaves gives it's last dance around him, painting this alluring scene before falling to the ground to wither and crumble away under his heavy boots.

As he continues on, his gaze drops. Sharp lavender eyes follows the cracks along the grey pavement. He focus on the weeds that's flourished in the broad cracks, along with small yellow flowers.

He couldn't resist crouching down and plucking the small flower from its root. Cocking his head to the side, he twirls the green stem between this fingers, a light scent emitting off it. Some petals are missing, expressing just how many times it's been trampled on- but the small petals still hold it's bright yellow shade nonetheless.

His small distraction is interrupted just moments later at the distinct sound of something he hasn't experienced in a while, and soon enough does he find himself in front of a house.

Flower now forgotten, slowly Neji rose to his full height and he couldn't tear his gaze away.

A beautiful yet simple two story house sits just a few feet from where he stood. And the longer he stood there the more it became clear. It wasn't the way the lights lit up every room in the house, giving that lively sense, or the added accessories to this plain house that drew him in.

From where he stood, he see's a small boy running throughout the house, though not in fear. It's faint, but Neji's ears picks up on the child's laughter. And soon enough did two more figures enter his sights, engulfing the small child in their arms.

The scene alone is enough to make his lips curl in a small smile. But he doesn't. Instead, a distant look overcomes him- the familiar feeling of longing slowly begins to creep back in. Reminding him of things he once had.

Reminding him that he had somewhere he needs to be.

Tearing his gaze away then, Neji gives one last glance down to the small flower trapped in his hand before pocketing it.

Looking straight ahead, he continues on down the path to his destination.


By the time he reach his destination, the grey sky had vanished into an eerie darkness, though no complaints are ever voiced.

Tall rusty gates is what stands between him and them, but before he takes another step forward, Lavender eyes trails upward to the bold letters above.

Konoha Cemetery.

For a while Neji remains rooted in place, looking beyond the gates to what the cemetery has to offer. For as long as he could remember, he's been coming to the home of the bodies that been laid to rest for years now. Bringing gifts of visits, different variety of flowers, and words of whatever came to mind. But this time is different. This time his hands are empty, and no words to share comes to mind. Only questions.

His hand reaches out to touch the cold rusty gates and push, the creaks ringing loud in his ears.

Taking his first step into the lost garden, he could feel his feet sinking just an inch into the soft ground, the mud quick to dirty his shoes. But it doesn't bother him. Instead he puts all his focus on the sight before him- taking in the endless sea of graves.

It should terrify him at how comfort continues to find him in such a dark place like this. How drawn in he become over the years. After a while, he just stop questioning it.

It's normal, he figures. The feeling of longing- not wanting to part from the ones he's lost. So what else is there to do but find ways to maintain that special connection? People believes tracing back to the last place they've been together is the best way to go about it- reminiscing past memories as they walk down the fallen's last path. Others prefers to forget altogether. Not wanting to relive the pain and heartbreak, so they opt to stay away.

He doesn't have the luxury to put the past behind him, nor does he want to. They don't deserve to be forgotten, or remembered only for one day. So for him, frequent visits as the anniversary draws near is his way to give back for all they've given him.

Neji's attention drifts upon a broken wail. There, is a crowd that slowly walks, but it's the small family trailing behind that catch his sights. A tall man- A Father, whose arms are draped around his two daughter's in both comfort and support. They trudge and cry in sync down the stone path.

Neji's gaze shifts up ahead until he spots the newly grave that has been dug up.

A wondering thought passes through him as his gaze lands back to the family. It's one big emotional scene. Everyone's dressed in dark attire to accommodate the depressing atmosphere that hangs in the air, influencing the tears to fall like a chain reaction.

But even this isn't the worse part. Watching the casket being lowered into the cold, damp ground, and accepting the words of comfort is easy. It's the slow, brutal realization that part of you is missing. Each and everyday you will wake up- forced to endure the memories of what was.

Neji turns away from the grieving family and allows his feet to carry him down the familiar stone path.

A wave of sorrow is not what runs through him because this is a normal scene. But the connection is there.


As his hands leaves the warmth of his coat pockets to wrap around the door handle of the Mausoleum, Neji pauses for a moment to stare at the tall structure before he wills himself to tug at the heavy door.

A pool of dust fluttering in the air greets him, reminding him just how long it's been since his last visit. Holding his breath, Neji waves a hand in front of him as he tries to adjust his sights to the dark space. But even with the full moon out tonight, it does little to assist him.

The gust of wind pushing against his back encourages him to take a step inside, and he watches as his shadow is devoured by the sheltering darkness with every step he takes.

Digging in his pocket, Neji pulls out a lighter and moves towards the first candle he sees. Once lit, he steps back and watch as the tiny flame grows to life, creating that alluring pull as it dances on the wick. Neji turns then, and one by one he lights each candle and lantern until the room glows a warm orange.

Like always, his feet carries him over to the decorative wooden bench where he takes a seat. The cold seeping through his clothes has little to no affect on him as his mind is somewhere else.

His gaze lowers to the ground as guilt and sadness slowly begins to sink in. For a while he sits still. His body slouch forward to rest his arms on his knees and his hands locks together as he murmurs a small prayer of forgiveness.

There had been times where he had tried to detach himself from all of this. And even for the brief moment it was, his mind would be at peace.

There was no feeling of obligation or continuing sadness eating at him. He could finally breathe. But it never lasts as he always finds himself back in this dark room, allowing the longing and guilt to overcome his senses for his selfish acts.

It's a tiresome cycle that he just can't seem to shake. And he hates it.

After what seemed like an eternity does he release a sigh, and drags his gaze from the ground to the honoring names in front of him.

Chizuru Hyuga.

Hizashi Hyuga.

Nikko Hyuga.

Chizuru Hyuga- The women with the bell-like laughter and beauty like never seen before. His Mother.

She had this thing about her. Something that drew people in. Made people adore her.

The memories he holds of her would be of small things. Like the way her lips would press to the top of his head in a kiss as she would speak in her softest voice and murmur soothing words. Or the way her slender arms would wrap around his body in a comforting hug only a mother could give, allowing him to be consumed by the sweet scent of raspberries that clung to her where ever she went.

It was as if she herself was magical. Her touch- her words alone could make him want to close his eyes and believe every word she spoke, making any uneasy feelings he had vanish in seconds.

The unconditional love. The protection. The memories. He received it all.

That, is what a Mother's love is suppose to feel like.

There's a forest near his house- his old home- that he would frequently visit. So many trees, so tall that the first few steps you take, the sky nearly vanishes. Only patches of light shines through the green leaves here and there. And when you go deep enough, you'd come across a small pond. The way the sunlight would cast down upon the clear water to the way the small ripples form when a breeze would sweep by, disrupting it's calm state- Breathtaking. And just a few feet over is a weeping willow tree so big, the leaves towers over and around, nearly brushing against the soft plush grass.

It's easy to get lost in the scene. How could anyone not? It looked as if it was drawn straight from a fairy tail book.

He doesn't know or rather yet, can't remember why he favored that tree over others. It wasn't the most gorgeous one he's encountered, he'll admit. The tree had to be the oldest. And bulkier than most. But he couldn't deny the way natural sunlight would hit the tree and area enchantingly, it always left him in a daze.

He had many adventurous moments when he took pleasure in exploring the tree. Like climbing to the very top to get a different view of the forest or even just sitting upon one of it's thick branches. But what he enjoyed most is when all his energy is drained away, he would take shelter from the illuminating rays to cool his warm skin. And right before he would doze off, the sound of the curly branches whispers around him, moving gracefully in the breeze, lulling him to sleep. It's little moments like that, that stuck with him.

Long ago, when nightfall had reached him sooner than expected, he was forced to emerge from the thick forest. After a long day of play he was tired, though content.

And just as he nears his home, something catches his attention. He had paused in place, believing his eyes had been playing tricks on him when he saw a floating light. Slowly it dimmed before flickering back to life. A smile stretched across his face as the temptation to follow after it overpowered him. And soon enough did he experience the forest come to life once more.

All around him did thousands of fireflies take to the skies in a slow mesmerizing dance.

Looking up toward the night sky, newfound energy and excitement hits as he bathed under it all.

It was as if the forest was giving him a parting gift- persuading him to come back the following morn to uncover more of it's secrets.

Neji shook his head at the thought. Every time his Mother would cross his mind, memories of the forest would always find it's way back to him. And though the visuals are compelling, it always left him in heartbreak.

And he couldn't fight it.

"There you are!"

A three-year-old Neji snaps his head around, wide lavender eyes easily spotting the intruder. Flashing him a warm smile, she cocks her head to the side, long brown strands falls over one shoulder in waves.

His small body slumps as he release the breath he had been holding. Calming himself, a bright smile reaches his face as she moves in closer. He waits until she plops down beside him before turning his attention back to the breathtaking scene before him.

The sunlight peeks through the healthy green leaves up above. And just before he could hold out his hands to feel the cascading warm light like he always did, she scoops him in her arms without warning and places him down on her lap. She couldn't resist the urge to nestle her face into his, a giggle escaping them both.

"You wasn't suppose to see this yet." Chizuru says, bringing both arms around him, pulling him in close. "I wanted to wait until you were a little older to show you this spot."

Neji's looks up at her. "Why?"

"Well.." She trails, her lips stretch into a wide smile as she leans against the large tree bark and gazes upward. "It's..a special place. This is where your Father proposed to me, actually." She laughs.

Confusion struck him as his head lolls back into the space between her neck and shoulder perfectly. "Pro..posed?"

Chizuru gave a laugh as she stares down at him, eyes shining brightly. "Just..remember this. When you find the right person- make sure to bring them here, okay?"

Neji gives a faint nod before nestling into her warm embrace. With his head now resting against her chest, the sound of her heart beating in his ear fills him with nothing but comfort as he continues to look on. He heard her.. He just couldn't comprehend what she was getting at. But the thought of sharing this place- this spot, seems unlikely. It was their spot. Why would he want to share it with anyone else?

Lavender eyes stole a quick glance at her, her smile never wavering. If she told him it was okay, then he guess it didn't really matter.

Chizuru gave a quick kiss to his temple, bringing him out of his thoughts. He looks up to see her holding her pinky out to him. "Come on. Say it with me."

Neji grins as he eagerly locks pinkies with her. "I love you."

"I love you." He repeats.

"Yesterday."

"Yesterday."

"Today."

"Today."

"Tomorrow."

"Tomorrow."

"Always." Smiling wide, she pulls him in a tight hug, slowly rocking him. They've remained locked in each other's arms for a long while, silence falling over them, though it's perfectly fine. Words aren't needed.

After that day, he made sure they would visit their spot more frequently. He would run, skip, and bounce around his parents with newfound energy before going up ahead, urging them both to hurry as he ran deeper into the woodland. Both his Mother and Father's laughter would reach his ears as they trail right behind him.

Though his Father's pleasant mood, he would always opt to sit underneath the tree the moment they reach their destination, not really the one to move around in such heat. Instead he would always come prepared: A light snack in one hand, and a thick book in the other as he took shelter under the large tree. Occasionally he would look up from his thick book at the sound of their laughter, and smile affectionately.

And with the energy that could rival his, Chizuru would explore the land with him. Encourage him to learn everything new they've discover. And when she allows him to go off (though not far) he comes back to find her snug at his Father's side. With her eyes closed and her head upon his shoulder, their hands are intertwined.

Just seeing his parents like this- together, brings a soft smile to his face.

Everything is perfect.

.

.

The moment the light breeze grows into a cold crisp, wildlife flees, and breath vapors, he knew the scene would change. Leaves that were once a rich, verdant green is now multicolored. One after another are they pulled from their roots to tangle in a gust of constant wind before falling to the soft ground. The plants follows suit. Slowly do their colors fade, wilting away as Fall fast approaches.

The thought of their place undergoing a drastic change didn't bother him as he thought it would. Spring would come back around in no time, he thinks. And when it does, I'll get to visit the forest again.

As the days goes by, the more he finds himself trapped in the safety of his home. He would stand at his bedroom window, and look on. The time spent with his parents are always pleasant, but he couldn't ignore the longing he felt from being away from the forest.

And when gazing out the window wasn't enough, he would open the casement, drowning the smothering heat in cool air.

The cold breeze ruffles his clothes and nips at his skin. Trembling, lavender eye would close and he would listen to the sound of nature all around him, reminiscing the first time he ever build the courage to travel to the forest alone.

And when he opens his eyes, a look of sadness- yearning, does not cross him, but a look of content does. Spring is way out of his reach, but he'll be patient. Besides, every season has its beauty.

Going from a crisp breeze to a warmer atmosphere, you know spring is here. Everyone seem to be at their best this time around. For him, Nature herself could easily take him back to good days. From the way true warmth hits upon his skin, to the perfume scent of flowers in the air, creating such a softness to the world. It always left him in a pleasant daze.

Summer is his least favorite. He, like most, tends to avoid the outdoors as much as possible, but even he couldn't deny it's appeal. With the golden orb beaming it's brilliant rays down upon the earth harshly, to the glistening, vibrant greenery. Everything is calm. So still- as if the image is painted. It's in those moments where nature is in it's finest bloom.

Autumn tells of that earthy scent that wafts in the crisp air, along with the morning fog. You simply can't ignore the powerful effect it has. From the different variety of colors, to the crunch under your boots. He was never one to resist jumping in a large pile of leaves- watching as the leaves float from the impact, only to fall back down to earth around him.

Now that he thinks about it, if he had to choose, his favorite part of this breezy season would be when he's standing still, and a gust of wind would show up out of the blue. Dried leaves would dance along until they encircles his feet, imprisoning him. Round and round they go- consuming him before releasing him back into the world. He doesn't know why, but that always left him with a wide smile on his face.

Winter bears pretty, delicate gifts in the form of grey skies and feathered crystals that float down for the most scenic winter wonderland. Everyone is tucked indoors as the frosty air howls and lingers while the trees and the ground is coated in a lovely pristine white.

Not once does he complain. Instead, he accepts the steamy mug of hot chocolate, and snuggles between both parent- encouraging them to wrap their arms around his small form as a comfortable silence falls between them. Together they would watch the snow flutter down softly, the blanket of white devouring everything in sight.

Neji smiles.

He is content.

.

.

That year, winter doesn't come quietly. What once was a soft flutter of feathered crystals that danced lazily to the ground is now an angry silver vortex.

Overnight the temperature had drop dramatically- harsh winds picks up so violently, the sharp strikes are heard, loud enough to rouse even the heaviest sleeper.

Shivering, a visible breath escapes his lips as small hands rubs each arm in a poor attempt to keep the cold air at bay.

From his place on his bed, Neji could tell the whirling snow is thick enough to blind even a good eye.

Teeth begins to chatter the moment he leaves the warmth of his bed. Bare feet pads across the stone cold floor as he moves to stand at the window.

Neji looks on, the snow blows every which way. The thick coat torturing, concealing the naked trees and ground so heavily it looks as if the world is nothing but a snow globe that had been roughly shaken.

Placing his arms on the chilled window sill, Neji rests his head in his arms. He couldn't wait until the storm passes over, his mind going over the list of things he plans to accomplish.

For instance, he couldn't contain his eagerness at the thought of having another snowball fight with his Father, and creating snow angels beside his Mother. And he couldn't forget about a snowman. He has yet to build one, so it's a must.

A sudden thought of visiting their place leaves him all the more curious. It'll be the first time he'd be in the forest, surrounded in a white blanket. Would it still have the same captivating effect over him, or would it leave him with mix feelings, he muses.

When he propose the idea, both Hizashi and Chizuru gathers him in their arms and promises to do all he plans once the raging storm calms.

But as the next few day rolls in and passes, the grey clouds and harsh winds remains. The pristine snow continues to shower down on them with no signs of stopping.

For hours, Neji remains rooted in place at the window, awaiting any sign of change in the weather. So distracted in the hopes of visiting their place, aware he was not of the dark cloud that grows- looming over the family..

.

.

Lavender eyes flutters open to welcome a new day. His body is drained from slumber, so he takes his time pulling himself up into a sitting position. Rubbing his eyes lazily, Neji strains his ears for the harsh whispers.

Silence.

Lavender eyes shifts to the window, and they instantly widen. Throwing the thick blankets off his body, Neji rushes over to the frosted window and gasps. The storm has finally past. And the end result is breathtaking.

The early morn sunlight struggles through dense grey clouds, casting a pale light only winter's sun could give.

The crystalline snow looks deep and plush. It spreads for miles, concealing all traces of any familiar paths.

The beginning of the forest is now in view once more. The tall trees are now still in the quiet morning. Their outlines are dark and starkly under the weight of the snow.

The wonderland is painted perfectly, just as he imagined it would be.

All tiredness is washed away and Neji doesn't waste another moment as he exits his room and rushes down the hall.

He takes no notice of the quiet and dark, eerie halls as his chanting bounces off the wall.

As he reaches his parents bedroom, the door is slightly open. Peaking through the crack, the image of his Father's back enters his sight and his smile grows. Small hands pushes the door open further, and Neji is at his side in seconds. And as he clings to his Father's arm did the look of excitement slowly fade into one of utter confusion.

Sitting statuesque still in a wooden chair beside the bed is Hizashi. His hair that usually remains in a low ponytail is untied and unkempt. Long strands hangs over and around his shoulders, nearly concealing his crestfallen face. Slowly, his lips moves as he murmurs a small prayer to the heavens above.

Neji's gaze lowers to his large hand that is enclosed around the deathly pale one that belong to his Mother.

Automatically his eyes trails over her completely. Chizuru's skin takes on a sickly pale complexion. Her forehead is drenched in a cold sweat, making the pool of her dark hair stick to her skin uncomfortably. Her eyebrows are furrowed, and just under them is where dark circles sat under her sunk in eyes. She lays still, the only movement is the faint rise and fall of her whistling chest.

Slowly Neji fixes his attention back to his Father, his bottom lip trembling with a thousand unspoken questions. But all he could muster is a broken, "Father?"

The plea in his voice is quiet. Weak. But it's enough to gain Hizashi's attention.

Snapping out of a trance, Hizashi's head shoots up and he finds his son's worried gaze easily. "N-Neji..I..."

Hizashi stiffens as his words dies in the air. Repeatedly does his worried filled gaze looks between him and Chizuru.

A distant look soon overcomes him and in such a voice he never used before, he says, "You..shouldn't be here..."

But Neji is unable to move. He doesn't want to. Instead he continues to look up at him with both fear and hope, waiting for him to assure everything is to be fine.

But he never does.

.

.

One minute they're in the comfort of their warm home. Standing at the edge of the bed, grasping onto her cold hands, and the next, they're in a confined space of cream walls, surrounded in a sick crowd of the unknown.

With innocent eyes, Neji watches the doctors move fast as humanly possibly, flanking her and talking with such urgency he doesn't know what to make of it.

Hizashi doesn't hide his shock and panic well. And it takes everything in him to release her hand as they whisk her down the hall. And just as the doors close behind her, all of the strength within Hizashi vanishes.

The sound of the patients wails and groans of pain does nothing but add to the looming fear that surrounds him.

The tick of the clock on the farther end of the room sticks, ringing loud in his ears. It provides no distraction. No ease, as it feels as if time had slowed.

Neji doesn't know how long it has been since they've first arrived. But the longer his gaze remains on the door where they had whisked her away in a hurry, the more the intense atmosphere magnifies.

The feel of his Father's arm curling around him encourages his head to loll and eyes to fall shut. But even with the comfort it brings, it's not enough to erase the image of her from his mind. The way her eyes light up with her genuine smile that fills him such unexpected warmth has now been corrupted. All he now sees is her sickly pale complexion and her weak form.

"She was just fine.." Neji hears Hizashi's whisper. Unshed tears sits in his eyes as he never looks away from the double doors. "She was just.." Hizashi shakes his head. "She is fine."

But she isn't.

She never stood a chance.

.

.

The snow flutters down from the heavens above softly, as if to paint the most peaceful scene the worlds ever known. Swallowing the still, naked trees, the ground, and everything in sight. Together they move slow and quietly despite the bold winds that continues to pierce through the many layers of clothing, chilling and paling their skin.

The soft crunch of snow under his feet doesn't provide the distraction he seeks. Instead, Neji's attention is on the stream of the lanterns that hangs above their heads, tauntingly.

They glow bright against the stainless night sky- guiding them to the double doors that awaits them. Unable to shy away from the alluring scene, the feeling of dread becomes more powerful- crawling down his spine and chilling him more than the winter night ever could. Over and over does his eyes trace over the haunting words above- a sickening reminder that this is real.

That this, is life.

LANTERNS FOR THE DECEASED.

Warmth is not the only thing that greets them the moment they step inside the funeral home. A pair of familiar innocent eyes and an unforgettable gentle smile presents itself- A picture that was taken so long ago, capturing the beauty that once flowed through her.

With just one look, old feelings are quick to flood him and it takes everything within him to not remain standing in the doorway. Numbly, Neji casts his gaze away and follows his Father further inside.

Passing through another set of double doors, they closed behind them heavily, cutting off the winter breeze completely. A breath leaves him as his body trembles on the spot, but he doesn't let the welcoming warmth distract him from the new sight before him.

Despite the different variety of flowers that is set all around, heavily scenting the air, there's an unsettling stillness in this large, quiet room.

Lights are lined up along the decorated cream walls, while some trickles down from the high ceiling. The bright lights reflects on the bare polished floors, rows of cushioned wooden benches, and the long glass windows- releasing beautiful ray of the colors.

Following his Father down the long isle- lavender eyes lowers, following along the dark burgundy rug that's been rolled on the wooden floorboard, leading them straight to the white decorated colored casket.

To her.

Neji drinks in the thick, yet comforting silence that surrounds them as he knew it wasn't going to last. The double doors behind them is to open for the service. But for a few minutes, this room is theirs. For their final goodbyes.

For a while he stood immobile by his Father's side, his focus on the bed of white and red roses that's been placed on lower half of her resting bed. He is afraid to move- afraid to look in her direction. The longer he remains there, the more powerful grief flows. It's unbearable.

The squeeze on Neji's hand causes him to shift his gaze up to his Father. He doesn't catch his eye, but his silence spoke louder than words.

Taking a deep breath, Hizashi places a gentle hand behind his head, bringing Neji forward.

Neji places both hands on the side of the casket and raises himself onto his toes, and peers down at her sleeping figure.

With soft brown hair done up so perfectly, and the usual accessories, his heart breaks to see her body so calm. So still. Pale eyelids are closed, shielding him from seeing the love and light she once carried, leaving him only to stare at her dark, natural eyelashes that brushes against her cheek and glistens from the lights above.

Neji's eyes travels down to her small button nose where, if you focus, can see the small spec of freckles that dances across.

Delicate fingers are laced together across her stomach, locking the small arrangement of magnolia and calla lilies in place. There is a sudden rush of warmth and despair that overflows him as the sight of the band of eternity- one of the many symbols that showcase the love her and his Father share.

As she is laid to what he hoped was a comfortable rest, she's dressed in a elegant white long sleeve dress with a lacy pattern that gives her this angelic look despite the dark cloud of death that continuously looms in the air.

In the mist of darkness, she will continue to shine.

Because even in death, she will live on.

Eternal beauty is all she is.

The feel of his Father's hand running through his hair makes him stumble back into his embrace as a sob escapes through trembling lips. "It's time."

The double doors are now open, and a sea of faceless people enters. One by one, they are quick to fill the wooden seats, ready to begin.

From the moment the service began to the very end, the talk of concerns hangs in the air. And the silent scream of pity and sorrow that dances in the thousand eyes on them never ceased.

Neji watch as some begins to form a line at her casket, each taking turns to give a small prayer of farewell while the rest begins to surrounds them.

When they attempt to give hugs of comfort and whispers of apologies, Neji remains silent, never meeting their gazes. Instead he allows his Father to gather him in his arms. Neji hands clutch at his Father as he buries his tear stained face in the crook of his neck. It's all he could do. He couldn't rid the stench of death, the haunting words, or the lingering eyes from his mind. But most of all, the thought of her- his own Mother, no longer within reach, breaks him.

.

.

No smile reaches him as he stands in his spot, looking on through the clear window in his bedroom.

From where he stood, the sky is a gentle hue of baby blue mixed with scattered clouds. And just below is the scatter of flowers, their vibrant colors standing out against the dewy green grass that sways in sync with the trees. It looks inviting. The feeling of nostalgia slowly creeps in on him, making it all the more challenging to look away.

It's been months since the funeral, and many more since he last visited their place. And as much as he wants to experience that wonderful sensation of nature around him, heartache continues to linger.

It didn't matter where he was or the time of day, all he see's is her- not there.

Everyday proves to be a challenge. When he wakes, it's to silence. Her voice- her laughter that would ring through the halls is nothing but a distant, echoing memory.

Her absence is strong. From the chair at the end of the dinner table that remains pushed in, to the photos of her smiling face that remains in their rightful places around the house, untouched.

Where is she now?

Is she at peace?

Does peace even exist?

When can I see her again?

These are the questions that plagues his mind constantly.

Neji knows he shouldn't, but in that next moment does the warmth from the sun rays seeps through his clothes and heats his skin as he walks down the familiar forest trail.

The air is fresh, fragrance with the earth and dried fallen leaves. He looks up and around, loving the way the trees glistens, sheltering him from the soft rays like always.

Neji pauses, his gaze drifts away- catching a few birds flying after one another. The sound of their wings, so soft yet noticeable. He watches as they go until they disappears within the tall trees above.

He would be lying if he said he didn't get that old rush feeling. Being able to witness and experience all the life and changes this place goes though- there are no words to describe how lucky he is to get to just soak in it all.

As he takes a deep breath, he exhales, and continues on.

A small frown forms on his face as lavender eyes stays glued to the ground, watching out for any roots or fallen branches. He didn't want to give into the temptation yet here he was- breaking the promise he made to himself after a few moments of weakness.

He couldn't understand what it was that made him so drawn to the forest in the first place. What made it so special that he would spend majority of his time out here? Was it nature herself? The way the leaves blows, along with the soft tunes of birds that remain close but hidden within the trees? The sound of both were enough to lull him to sleep easily. Or maybe it's the way he felt protected despite the forest being enormous. It's big enough to easily get lost, but with the amount of time he spend in the forest, not once did he ever feel scared about not being found.

As the large weeping willow tree comes into view, the urge to run towards it becomes strong. But just as his pace begins to quicken, he stops abruptly. Lavender eyes grows wide- stunned.

Hizashi turns his head in his direction, the look of surprise mirroring his. Slowly, Hizashi rose to his feet, a hand coming to rest on the large trunk for support. "N-Neji.."

If his voice weren't a dead giveaway, it's his tear streak face.

For months Neji watch as his Father bears the same worn mask as his body sags with exhaustion. The spark his eyes once held had long vanished into something he could not describe. It unnerves him.

With a voice so broken, he dares not speak of her as he continues to breath and move- proving his heart still beats, even if his mind is only half there.

Seeing him here after so long with eyes that burns and swirls with emotions, leaves Neji speechless. This isn't what he had expected.

His feet has a mind of it's own- every step he took, the sharper the pain becomes.

How long have you been here?

When did you start coming back here?

Does it get easier?

The moment Neji closes the distance between them, Hizashi drops to his knees and wraps strong arms around his small form.

Neji's vision is soon to blur and his bottom lips trembles against his will. Closing his eyes, his body falls limp against his father's chest as warm tears soaks his face.

A clear but sudden cry startles Neji, causing his body to tense against his Father. Cranking his neck around, glistening lavender eyes stares up into the thick leaves, searching. It's moments later when the small creature appears in his line of sight. Quickly it flew, settling on a high branch right above them. The bird is small and thin, donning a range of beautiful colors.

"A Fairy Pitta." Hizashi whispers. He turns his attention towards the colorful bird, a small smile reaching his face. "They're her favorite."

Neji watch as the bird tilts it's dainty head, and shake it's tail before he moves to be tuck at his father's side. Neji rests his head against his Father's chest as he listens to the long, slow tune the bird sung. It's not long for eyelids to grow heavy and the world around him to blur. Neji surrenders to sleep. And for once, his mind releases a carousel of pleasant memories.

.

.

Neji stirs. His eyes flutters open at the feel of Hizashi nudging him awake. Bringing a hand to rub the remainders of sleep away, Neji sits up and gazes out into the forest. Wisps of brilliant white clouds are shaped in the form of curls and ripples, decorating the forget me not blue sky. The heat of the sun continues to pour down in light waves, warming the air around them and encouraging the sweet sounds of wildlife to come forth.

Sighing, Hizashi places a hand on top of Neji's head. His fingers passing through his hair gently as he takes a moment to observe the forest, bathing in the nostalgia and beauty that makes up the forest.

As they rose to their feet, Hizashi glances down to Neji and his lips lifts in a light, genuine smile. Hizashi nods his head before turning to leads the way. "Let's go."

Walking along side his Father, Neji couldn't help but steal a glance at him. Just as quick as it came, the smile vanishes, though he now walks with his shoulders at ease and his head held high. And as he walks through one of the rays that passes through the tall trees, he notice a change about him. Along with the sadness that continues to swim deep is his glossy eyes, there is warmth. Light. Life.

For the first time, the heavy weight that lingers is lifting ever so slowly, but surely. Neji smiles.

Neji reaches to grab a hold of his hand when a sudden a gust of wind appears, shaking up the fallen leaves and pulls them along.

Neji pauses, and watch as the leaves blow in a continuous circle around his feet before dancing away. The urge to follow the frolicking leaves pushes forth and he finds himself walking down the dirt path again.

Neji continues on until the breeze vanishes, dropping the leaves in place. His shoulders drop and disappointment set on his face is brief as he soon realizes where he is. The weeping willow tree is now in view.

As much as he wishes to stay a while longer, he knows he should find his father. But just as he turns to leave, a shimmering light catches his eye.

Turning back towards the huge tree, lavender eyes squints slightly as he struggles to understand what it is he's seeing. Faint mist emerges from the shimmering light in the form of a figure.

Someone is here.

Curiously, his feet takes him forward, and as he draws near does his feet comes to an abrupt stop. His bottom lip drops open and a familiar chill runs down his back the longer he continues to stare. The verdant hues of the forest continues to gleam from the heated rays and the fragrance of flowers is much stronger in the light air. But even that isn't enough to calm his racing heart.

A silver hand moves along the trunk as the figure comes from behind the thick tree. Holding onto the trunk at arm's length, small white beads sits atop and through the long hair that pours gracefully over her bare shoulder. The white dress she wears flows lovely, but it doesn't hold a candle to the shimmering eyes that stare back at him.

There she is.

His lips parts in a gasp, and his body begins to tremble as he takes a step back. The wind starts up again and the soft breeze pushes against his back, blowing the fallen leaves around him and down the path, leading straight to her.

This isn't real.

She..shouldn't be here.

As long brown hair sways in sync with the curly leaves when the breeze sets in, her thin lips curls into that natural smile of hers. Slowly, she moves, extending an arm, and offers her hand.

One after another, tears blurs his vision and pours down his face as a broken sob pushes through trembling lips.

He took a step forward.

Then another.

And another.

His hands comes up to wipe at the endless tears as he goes.

When Neji finally approaches the base of the tree did his eyes run over the image of her.

In the form of his Mother, she stands still- transparent. She is dressed down in the same elegant white lace dress as the night of her wake.

So much time has passed and yet she looks the same. Breathtaking. She continues to wear that heart warming smile just as he remembers. Her eyes twinkles as she watches him closely, and the beautiful sound of her laughter echoes in the breeze.

Neji couldn't resist reaching out for her extended hand. The ache of longing to feel her warmth- to hear her words of comfort in his ears, gnaws at his heart. It's unbearable.

He wants to tell her everything he couldn't before. That everything has changed since the moment she took her last breath. He wants her to know how deeply he had missed her. He wants her to understand just how much he needs her, but all that rushes out of his mouth is a broken cry. "Mommy..."

Just inches away from her grasp, a hand grabs onto his shoulder and whirls him around. He comes face to face with his Father, a look of confusion crosses his face. "What are you doing back here?"

Neji blinks, a wave of tears streams down his face. "Mother.. She's-" Neji turns back towards the transparent figure, but to his surprise, she is no longer there.

At a loss for words, Neji steps forward and touches the base of the tree as he looks around him. When he turns back towards his Father, heavy tears continues to pour down.

Hizashi eyebrows furrows as he scans the forest warily before he takes Neji's hand and guides him in the direction of their home. "Let's go."

With his free hand, Neji feebly scrubs his tears away as he allows his Father to pull him along. A breeze sweeps by, and the sound of her bell-like-laughter rings in the air again. Neji couldn't help but look over his shoulder, and a gasp escapes him.

Nature all around continues to move and breathe while she remains at the base of the tree, eerily still. Her head cocks to the side, and her smile never fades.

That was the last he saw of her.

To this day he never spoke a word about it nor did he question it.

He believe it was a sign. Telling him that she would forever watch over him and the forest- wherever she was.

It's been years since he last visited the forest. With the intoxicating beauty it holds, he knows it would have the same effect on him like it did all those years ago.

Old memories of his past is quick to flood his mind. The peace and quiet that would shatter the moment his laughter and chants fills the air. And she too would follow with rivaling energy.

Neji's lips stretch into a broken smile as he gives a laugh-like-scoff. He forgot how quick she was to smile.

When she walks, long strands resembles liquid as it flowed and swayed as she moved. And when she runs ahead, she would twirl around and clasps her hands behind her and flash her purest smile.

It's simple memories like that he wish he could just relive. To get that sense of happiness he once felt.

When with the person you cherish, it feels as if time stops. Just their presence alone is enough to fill you with happiness. No words are ever needed, and the thoughts of savoring each moment is nonexistent until they're whisked away. The stench of misery and loneliness washes over you. Consumes you. Changes you until you don't even recognize yourself.

And all you think about is a thousand things you wish you've told them sooner.

So for him, the words he whispers to the heavens are: Thank you.

Thank you for everything you've done for me. Every lesson you taught. Wiping away the thousand tears I've shed. For holding onto me- comforting me.

Thank you..for loving me.

A tear slips from his eye as his fix his gaze on her name. "Happy birthday, Mother."

Neji takes a moment before lavender eyes flicks to the next name carved perfectly in stone.

Hizashi Hyuga- A reserve, strong man who bravely wore his heart on his sleeve. His Father.

With Hizashi, what you saw is what you received. He is the pillar of strength, kindness, and warmth.

Such a quiet, gentle spirit he was. He was a man of few words, but he made sure to show nothing but love and comfort in his actions. Hizashi was their keeper, and he will always remain a hero in his eyes.

If there is one memory he would choose to keep with him, it would be the year after the passing of his Mother.

It was a simple, cold winter day. Where everything was peaceful and calm.

Together they sat on the porch, taking in the slow transition of winter. As the mixture of grays continues to paint the skies, the crisp air grows colder each passing day, forcing the naked trees to shiver in the distance.

Holding a fist out, Neji opens his palms and drops seeds onto the ground and watch as a flock of birds surrounds his feet. "I have heard you talking." Innocent eyes peers up at Hizashi. "You have an older brother. And he has a child."

"Yes." Hizashi gave a light smile. "Her name is Hinata. She's one year younger than you."

"Hinata.." Neji's he tests her name, a smile growing on his face. Dropping the last batch of seeds, Neji moves to sit beside his father. Hizashi reaches over and place a hand on his head, his fingers massage his head, encouraging Neji to rest his head on his chest.

"We will be going to see Hinata tomorrow for her third birthday, actually."

"How come I never met them before?" Neji's eyebrows dips in slight confusion. "You never talk about them."

"Well, you did. During the funeral. Of course, our minds were..somewhere else." Silence falls around them as they think back to that dreadful day.

Sighing, Hizashi looks down at him before he raise a hand and placed it over Neji's his face, and gave a playful shake. "I know you miss her.. I miss her too."

A smile graces Hizashi face and he chuckles at the sound of Neji's cry of complaint, before he turns his attention towards the gray sky. "Looks like it's going to snow pretty heavily."

Snatching the large hand away, Neji looks up to sky. His gaze hones the few snowflakes that softly flutters down. Sitting up straight, an excited gasp escaping his lips. "Father, it's snowing!"

Hizashi smiles at him. "The first snow.. It's going to turn into a heavy snowfall." He predicts.

.

.

Sitting patiently on the couch, Neji watch as his father walk long strides around the house, doing last minute checks.

When Hizashi had informed him that they would be visiting his cousin, he didn't think they would spend more than a day away from home. Both excitement and curiosity overpowers any other feeling, and he couldn't contain himself from asking:

"Are you older than your brother?"

"Why doesn't he come to visit us?"

"What is he like?"

As much as Hizashi smiles at his eagerness and did his best to give satisfying answers, he didn't seem as thrilled about reuniting with his brother as Neji thought he would be.

Hiashi was never known for withholding secrets yet this is the first he's ever spoke of his side of the family. Neji wonders why?

Days leading up to now, sudden nerves began to emerge. Even with his thousand questions answered, Neji still doesn't know what to expect. They have met before, as his Father claims, but no memory of them comes to mind. It had been a difficult time, sure, but even as many came and went, he didn't understand how he could have missed them.

"Father, can we go now?" Neji asks, rocking back and forth in his seat.

Once confident with his last check, Hizashi turns to Neji with a small smile. "Let's say goodbye to your Mother."

Neji slides off the couch and follows after his father to where the little makeshift shrine was set up. On both ends are vases that houses a few calla lilies and Kiku flowers. And in the center is the image of Chizuru. The camera had captured her blinking, concealing those big, warm eyes. Her face is free of worry and pain as she gives a wide cheeky grin.

Sitting on a plush mat, Neji mimicked his father's movements. Clasping his hands in front of him, Neji lowers his head in a silent prayer.

"I promise to look after him." Neji peels one eye open upon his father whispers before silently promising the same. When done, Neji jumps to his feet and waves towards the photo. "See you later, Mommy."

Calmly, Hizashi trails after Neji towards the door. They throw on their coats and necessary garments for the cold season before stepping to greet the chilled air.

Hopping off the porch, Neji waits as his Father locks the door and looks around him. Like his Father predicted, it had snowed heavily, giving their surroundings that magical winter vibe he loves.

Once strapped in the back seat, Neji leans back comfortably and turns to gaze out the window. This would be the first he's ever parted from the forest- Their spot, Neji realizes. Surprisingly, he's not sad as he thought he'd be. He's strangely content as his departure isn't forever.

Starting the ignition, Hizashi casts him a smile in the rear view mirror. "Ready?"

Neji turns upon his voice, and smiles. "Ready."

And they're off.

.

.

Sleepy lavender eyes flutters open at the feel of hands shaking him gently. Givng a yawn, Neji is met with his Father's smiling face.

Hizashi helps him out of the car before moving to get the bags. Now standing, Neji sways gently, the crisp and clear air slowly eating the sleep away. Looking around himself, he notices the sky is showcasing more vibrant colors as the winter sun sets.

Bags now in hand, Hizashi grabs a hold of Neji's hand and guides them down the stone path that led directly to the colossal structure. The mansion looms proudly behind tall iron gates that opens before them. At its threshold stood the delicate marble fountain, the soft gurgling of the crystal clear water melodically resonates in the silent night.

Rubbing at one eye, Neji gaze lands on an older man who awaits them in front of the large double doors.

"Good evening." He greets, stepping aside and motioning them inside. "Welcome to the Hyuga estate. We've been expecting you."

Once inside the threshold, Neji's lip drops open in awe as he takes it all in. From the polished floors to the hand rail leading up the marbled spiral stairs, everything sparkles under the large chandelier.

Along the cream color walls are decorated with expensive paintings that are accompanied with invaluable antiques that sits high on pillars.

Neji turns his attention back towards the man closing the door behind them. His hair is slick back neatly, and upon his nose are round spectacles. His attire consist of a gray waistcoat, white button shirt, and dark crisp pants. The older man gives a small bow. "My name is Genjiro." He introduces, giving a smile. "May I take your belongings?"

Before Hizashi could utter a word, two servants comes from around the corner and grabs the luggage's before scurrying off up the stairs. Hizashi blinks, surprised. "Oh. Yes. Thank you."

"I'll take you to your respective rooms. Once you're settled in, I'll bring you to the dinning room where Hiashi is waiting." Genjiro sweeps his arm aside, motioning down the long hall. "This way."

Nodding, Hizashi grabs onto Neji's hand and together they followed after the tall man.

As Hizashi makes small talk with the older man, Neji's attention drifts. Raising his head, Neji's gaze lands on a large portrait hanging on the wall that comes into view.

It's of a man who has a pale complexion. Long dark brown hair that is pulled back neatly- the light bouncing off it and his skin. He's dressed professionally in a black crisp suit, white dress shirt, and a conservative tie. He sits in a large chair, one arm resting on the armrest, the other atop of his leg that is crossed over the other. The way his holds himself: head held high, serious eyes, perfect posture- there's a wave of arrogance that surrounds him. And speaking of his eyes, they seem familiar yet..different. Similar as they hold the same color as his and his father. But unlike them, they were lidded, giving this cold, intimidating look. He doesn't smile. In fact, his eyebrows dips into a permanent scowl.

Neji frowns. He looks exactly like Father.

The next image is of a women. Just from the first look, he can tell she held this beauty to her. Natural dark hair that reflects blue under the light is pinned up in a neat up-do with soft curls that falls around her face. She has healthy skin pale that makes her high rosy cheek bones stand out. And just under is where a small pendant sits upon her long slim neck. She sits in a chair that is fit for a queen. Her posture is perfect as her gloved hands are placed neatly on top of her lap as she stares straight ahead through lavender eyes. She wears a long, fiery red dress that shields her legs and feet. An air of confidence is what he picks up from this image. She doesn't smile either, though the way her eyes appears, Neji has a feeling she is different from the man before.

The last image is of a small girl. Dark hair reflects blue just as the women before yet hers is set perfectly into a hime-cut, just above her forehead with chin-length strands framing her tiny face angelically. Sitting in a large chair, her small hands rest on her lap, her body posed at a slightly turned angel. She too holds her head high as she stares straight ahead. A long, white dress is what she wears. The skirt fans out around her and consumes her legs. He caught the sense of elegance- Innocence- in this picture. Perhaps it had to do with the way the light hit her pale skin just right, making her rosy cheeks stand out. Or maybe it was the softness in her wide eyes. She too possesses the same lavender tint like his. But despite the warmth in them, she doesn't smile. He wonders why.

They all look like royalty, Neji thinks. Almost fake even.

Neji's eyes continues to wander until he gets a glimpse inside what looks to be a ballroom. Over a dozen maids frolicking this way and that, either holding dusters or some sort of decoration in the colors of rose gold and white.

After going down many more halls and up a set of stairs, they soon arrive at a large wooden door. "This is Master Neji's room." Genjiro exclaims, pushing open the bedroom door. "Lord Hiashi tells me you'd prefer you're old room. I hope it's to your liking."

Neji turns to his father. "I'm not staying with you?"

Sensing his uneasiness, Hizashi lowers himself to his height and places a hand atop of his head. "It'll be fine." Hizashi assures him. "Let's unpack."

.

.

Neji clings to his father's hand as Genjiro leads them down many halls and to the dinning room.

"It's been a while since I've lived here." Hizashi states in awe. "It's not at all how I remembered."

"Yes. Hiashi has done some remodeling sometime ago." Genjiro informs, a light smile spreads on his face. "He takes great pride in all his accomplishments. Quite impressive, if I do say so myself."

"Yes, indeed.." Hizashi murmurs, his gaze roaming in thought once more. And after a few moments he asks, "Have you been here long?"

"Quite some time now, actually." Genjiro smiles gratefully, but leaves it at that. Hizashi only nods in understanding.

Entering the dinning room, the delightful scents wafting in the air greets them. There they come across an exquisite mahogany wooden table that stretches far, accompanied with tall, plush seats. One by one servants appears through the kitchen doors to laden the table with platters of the most delicacies Neji's eyes laid upon.

"I hope you enjoy your stay." And with that, Genjiro bows and takes his leave.

Now alone, Hizashi looks down to Neji. "How are you liking the stay so far?"

Neji ponders for a moment. "It's..different."

Hizashi gives an unexpected laugh-like scoff as lavender eyes roams the exquisite room. He couldn't resist muttering, "That's putting it mildly."

"Hizashi."

Turning upon the new voice, they are now face to face with a splitting image of Hizashi.

Though only standing a few inches shorter, the intensity within his eyes makes up for it. The man is dressed in a fitted crisp dark tailored suit and shoes.

Startled, Neji takes a step back into his father's side as he struggles to take in the similarities.

"It's nice to see you again, Hizashi." Bold Lavender eyes flicks down to innocent ones. He gives a brief nod in acknowledgement. "Neji."

Hizashi nods, a trace of a smile reaches his face. "Likewise, Hiashi.."

"Neji.. I don't think you've officially met your cousin." Hiashi starts, glancing down to his side. It's then Neji spots a small hand clinging onto Hiashi's pants leg.

"This.." Hiashi, gently but firmly grabs onto the small wrist and brings the child forward. "-is Hinata Hyuga."

Small lips falls open in a small, panicked gasp. She is quick to take shelter behind her Father once more. After a moment, curiosity strikes her and wide lavender eyes peeks out curiously.

The longer Neji continues to stare at her, the clearer it becomes. She definitely was the girl from the picture.

"So. Hinata is turning three years old tomorrow." Hizashi says, casting her a friendly smile. "Congratulations."

"Well. Now that introductions are out of the way, lets eat." Hiashi motions towards the large buffet, a light smile gracing his lips. "We have much to discuss."

Moving towards the table, Hizashi seats Neji beside him, right across from Hinata, and he, across from his brother.

"Speaking of age. Hizashi, Neji is already four." Hiashi gives a smug look. "You haven't started his training yet, I take it."

Unwavering, Hizashi replies, "I have, actually. He started training when he turned three."

"Really? I would love to see how far his skills go. Hinata is training as we speak." Hizashi's eyes lids ever so slightly as continues to listen to the words that pours out of his eldest brother. "I would love to see how fairs against her. He might stand a chance, but I guarantee once he is under my wing, nothing will stop him."

Hizashi gave a dry laugh. "That's not necessary."

"Nonsense! Remember when we participated in tournaments? We were unstoppable- more so, myself. I guarantee, under the right training and care, you'll see a difference within him. Besides, it'll give me a chance to become more..acquainted with my nephew. And while we're on the topic," Hiashi's places his elbows on the table and rests his chin upon his clasps hands, his gaze never leaving Hizashi's. "-have you decided on my offer?"

"I have. And my answer still stands, Hiashi. We're perfectly content where we are."

"I'm sure you are, no doubt. But my offer is still stands. No pressure, Hizashi, but do reconsider. I believe..this would solve if not all, most problems, no?"

"Possibly."

"Then what's holding you back?"

Hizashi gaze quickly shifts down to his oblivious son before flicking back towards Hiashi with a knowing look. "It's best to not make any rash decisions."

Perfectly shaped eyebrows furrows as the corners of Hiashi's lips curls downward. "No. Of course not."

Feeling the need to change the topic, Hizashi says, "I have yet to see Nikko. Is she not joining us?"

Hiashi waves his hand dismissively. "She's busy with that little job of her's, as usual. You'll see her tomorrow at the gathering. But don't let her absence disrupt a fantastic reunion between two brothers."

Reaching for the alcohol, Hiashi casts a smirk and raises his glass in a toast. "To us."

Hizashi stares at the glass in his hand before meeting his gaze. Giving a grimace of what he hope look like a smile, Hizashi raises his own glass.

Toasting, Hiashi gulps his drink in one shot before placing the empty glass down.

Hiashi smirks. "Let's eat."

.

.

With his stomach full, and now dressed for bed, Neji enters his given bedroom. Making a beeline towards the large bed, he climbs on the soft mattress and he waits patiently as his Father strolls in moments after.

Hizashi closes the door behind him and leans against it. The wood cools his warm skin through his dress shirt pleasingly.

The sleeves of his shirt is now rolled up to his elbows and a few buttons had come undone sometime ago, giving off the false sense of content. He is anything but.

Dinner, to say the least, had been everything he expected. Only the finest dishes has been pushed in his direction, one after another. The conversation, carried mostly by his other half, never ceased. Boasting about his past accomplishments and future goals. And as if he hadn't expressed his disinterest in everything around him with little contribution to their conversations, Hiashi insisted on giving a tour of the mansion. And like a fool he agreed.

One by one does Hiashi introduce them to all the important rooms, private sections, and priceless antiques within the walls.

In the mist of all this, Hizashi's focus and watchful eyes is only on his brother.

From the way he carries himself: from the unassailable confidence set deep in his eye to the way he spoke, said it all.

He's still the same.

After a moment, Hizashi gives a light shake of his head as he straightens up and makes his way towards the large suitcase in the far corner. Unzipping the valise, he begins to unpack.

As Neji eyes trails his father's movement absently, his mind recaps tonight's event. Finally being in the presence of family he had no knowledge of, is a little unsettling.

He would freeze at any question directed at him, and after he regains composure, he'd answer respectfully before looking back down at his plate. His hands would fumble with the hem of his shirt in a nervous manner as he listens to the conversation halfheartedly.

It's like him to remain quiet, or calm around those he's not familiar with, but never shy.

And in the mist of the seemingly never ending dinner, not once does the girl across from him utter a word.

For the most part, Hinata kept her attention solely on her plate as she quietly ate. There were times where he'd catch himself staring at her- watching as pale cheeks flush a rosy pink before he glance away almost immediately.

But it wasn't as if he'd been the only one stealing curious glances throughout the night.

The next time he glances up from his plate does he find mirroring eyes staring right back at him.

She has a compelling hold on him that seemed to last for hours. So many emotions swims in her large eyes, but before he could decipher them, she averts her gaze and bows her head, allowing her dark hair to curtain her face.

She gives off this curious yet timid personality- Completely different from him.

I wants to know her, Neji mentally declares.

He doesn't know how many days they will remain within the large estate, but he vows to make the most of it.

Neji's mind wanders to his uncle next. The more he thinks of him, the more unsure he felt. He doesn't know what to make of Hiashi. From what he seen so far, he's the complete opposite from the man in the portrait. The image showcases a man who is tense. Unable to show any emotion besides anger. But the man that sat before him comes off as gregarious. He's expressive. He is able to smile (smirk)- though it did have the tendency met the intensity in his gaze.

But besides all this, for some reason, the fact that his Father has a sibling- a twin no less, amazes him.

Having a sibling must be nice, Neji thinks.

He wonders what they were like younger. Did they hold a close relationship? What were their likes and dislikes? These questions continuously swarms in his mind. And as the night progressed, he was able to see the difference between the two.

His father is quiet. Reserve. Compassionate. Whereas Hiashi is talkative. Confident. Intense.

Neji didn't fully understand what was talked about around him, but he did sense a shift in his father's mood. Neji couldn't help but look towards his father from time to time the longer the conversation went. There was something bothering him, Neji knew. But of course he never voiced his concerns- until now.

"You never talk about Uncle before. Why?"

Hizashi pauses in storing the clothes into the dresser and turns to find Neji's curious gaze on him.

Silence sat between them as they locks gazes a moment longer before a scoff like laugh slips through Hizashi's lips. "You're too smart for your own good, Y'know that?"

Hizashi gives his back to him, his fingers moving to fold another shirt before tucking it away. "We..had a bit of a fallout years ago." He admits moments later. "I'm still surprise he reached out to me after all this time." After a while does Hizashi's eyebrows set in a small frown as he becomes lost in his thoughts.

Surprise- That he was when he received the phone call. It had been months before the funeral of his late wife- A time when everything seem right in the world. He hadn't heard the sound of his bother's voice in many years and he never planned to again.

"Is there a reason you're calling?" He had excused himself from Chizuru's side and moved to a secluded space. Surprisingly his voice isn't laced in bitterness, but merely curiosity.

For a moment, silence sits between them and Hizashi puts all his weight against the cold wall behind him as he pinches the bridge of his nose tiredly. "Look-" He begins, but is cut off at the sound of a heavy sigh on the other end.

"...I miss you, brother."

Those words alone renders Hizashi speechless.

When it was his turn to reach out to Hiashi, it had been the day Chizuru breathed her last breath. The grief and sadness swirls aggressively, clouding his judgement as he utters those words he never thought of saying:

"She's gone."

The day of the funeral, Hizashi lifts Neji into his arms and cradles his trembling form. Hizashi buries his hand deep into his soft locks and pushes his tear stained face into the crook of his neck.

Standing beside the pristine casket, Hizashi stiffly nods his head, giving a faint smile that never reached his eyes as the never ending wave of people moves slowly, giving words and hugs of condolences that fell upon deaf ears.

In the mist of all of this, he's not aware of a figure sliding in close until a heavy hand rests upon his shoulder. Hizashi turns and finds the one person who meant the world to him at a point in his life, in front of him.

Standing before him is Hiashi. His face void of any emotion, but the way Hiashi continues to stare into his eyes does he receive the silent message.

I'm sorry.

Truth be told, he hadn't expect him to show, given the strain on their relationship and all. He is grateful nonetheless. And he welcomes the relief at the sight of him.

Drowning deep in emotions, Hizahi drops his guard as he releases a shaky breath. And without hesitation, he walks into his older brothers strong embrace.

Hiashi isn't the type to admit his wrong doings first, so it throws him off when he decides to put the past behind them.

Of course he didn't think anything of it. So as weeks goes by, the more they've talked. But it wasn't until Hiashi proposed the offer did something click.

There is always purpose behind his every move. It's clear he's after something, Hizashi concludes. But what?

What game are you playing, Hiashi?

"Aren't you happy to speak with him again?"

The question throws him off. And when wise lavender eyes met curious ones, Hizashi instantly clears his face of any emotions. "Yes." He lies. "I guess I am."

Closing the last drawer, Hizashi walks towards the bed and pulls the thick blankets aside for Neji to crawl under.

Hizashi tucks him in before brushing a few strands from his face and presses a light kiss to his forehead. "Get some sleep."

Neji watch as he reached over to turn the lights out before rising to his full height. It was when Hizashi starts for the door does Neji began to scramble after him.

"Where-"

"I'll be in there in a while to read to you." Hizashi quickly assures him. "Just wait for me, but in the meantime, do try to get some sleep."

Neji plops back down, his bottom lip stuck out in a pout. "Okay.."

"Goodnight, Neji."

"Goodnight.."

Neji watch as the door close behind him before snuggling back under the blanket. Wide lavender eyes are quick to adjust to the darkness as he continues to stare at nothing in particular. Neji allows his mind to wander what he believes is to come of this trip before the heaviness in his eyes becomes to much.

Moments later, he submits to rest.

.

.

Neji does nothing to fight back the yawn that escapes pass his lips.

Given his history, people would think despite the sun barely rising and the chilling air that seeps inside, circling throughout the room would have no effect on him. That he be a ball of energy, but his skin is littered with goosebumps and he is seconds from dozing off on the spot.

It felt like it had only been minutes when he finally submit to sleep before he was woken by maids. They scurried around the room, rushing to get him ready for the day. And as he began to undress, he realized he hadn't seen his father last night, nor this morning.

Neji questions the maids that was in the process of laying out his clothes of his whereabouts. She smiles down at him, and answers, "He is waiting for you in the dojo. Someone will be down to escort you there."

And here he was.

The training room is much more spacious than the one back at home, Neji notes. The dark wooden floorboard is cold to the touch, glistening from the little light that seeps through the large windows.

Sitting on the sideline is a few but unfamiliar faces, all eyes similar to his own, locked solely on him.

But he doesn't focus on them. Instead, he lavender eyes are on two sets of familiar faces, their eyes trained on him. Neji raises a hand to rid the tiredness in his eye away before shifting his gaze from his father to his uncle. For a moment, he is unsure who is who before he caught sight of the faint curl of lips rising.

Hizashi couldn't contain the light smile that rose on his face upon the confusion on his son face. But just as the smile appears, it vanishes. Face now void of any emotion, Hizashi sits with perfect posture, mirroring everyone else.

Neji fights the urge to walk towards his father and ask him what he was here for when he heard footsteps behind him. Glancing over his shoulder, Neji turns to see Hinata enter the room, accompanied by a servant. She is dressed in the same custom uniform as he. But unlike him, she masks her tiredness well.

Turning his attention ahead, lavender eyes catches the nervous side glance she toss him. Hinata moves to sit a few feet away from him. A look of discomfiture sets on her face as her eyes wanders from him to her father.

Neji cocks his head questionably as he continues to openly stare at her. At first he couldn't comprehend her sudden mood until it dawns on him moments later.

She is to be opponent.

Neji's head snaps back to his father who in return, gives a faint nod, answering his silent question.

Taking a chance, Neji shifts his gaze towards Hiashi only to see an expectant look cross his face.

The longer Neji remains there, the more his nerves beginning to surface. It's usually him and his father when he practice. He isn't use to having all eyes upon him. But that doesn't mean he won't give it his all.

Hiashi raises his head as he gave command. "Rise."

Neji flinch at his tone and he couldn't help but look to see Hinata jump to her feet.

Slowly Neji drew himself up to his feet and bows respectfully before facing her. As they drop into stance, Neji takes a deep breath and exhales softly. He clears his mind of all distractions as his father once instructed, and puts all his focus on the task at hand.

A deafening silence cuts through the air, and he remains still, watchful eyes on her.

For the first time her gaze doesn't shy away from him. Her stance is solid, mirroring his. And instead of her usual unsure, shy expression, thin eyebrows twitch and furrows in false concentration.

She's not focused, Neji thinks. But he doesn't ponder on the thought any longer as the next command is given.

"Begin!"

In that instant Hinata lunges forward to strike first, forcing Neji into defense.

Neji doesn't really understand the whole point of this, but he welcomes the idea of sparing with someone other than his father.

Neji study's her. The movement of her feet. Every pause she takes to breath. Her pattern. And as minutes goes by, he can tell she isn't confident in her movements as her hits are weak. Hesitant.

Once he's comfortable, Neji easily turns the tables by delivering blow after blow until she stumbles over, falling hard on her backside.

Neji pauses in mid-strike and guilt immediately fills him at the sight of her teary eyes on him. He takes a step back and waits.

"On your feet, Hinata!"

Both children tense at the booming voice, their heads turning to face Hiashi. What once an emotionless expression morphs into a deep scowl, his stare a chilling cold.

The second Hinata is back on her feet, she charges again without a beat. Again, Neji goes into defense. He continues to block all her strikes, and at the same time, watching as her pale face heats up as she continues to push forth. Already her movements are becoming more sluggish and predictable with every deliver.

Neji's reflexes are quick, the sound of his small hands blocking her advances with ease echoes throughout the room. And each slap upon her wrists brings small screams and squeaks to slips through her mouth.

The spar continues on until Neji smacks her wrist away from his face once more before gripping it in both hands. Carefully but firmly, Neji lowers her to the wooden floorboard and pins her down.

Neji grip tighten ever so slightly to keep her in place, but she shows no signs of continuing. Unlike him, Hinata is left breathless. The rise and fall of her chest is harsh. Her hair matted to her forehead and red cheeks.

Hiashi raises a hand, his voice vibrating with power as his eyes never leaves his daughters. "That's it for today."

Neji slowly rises to his feet and offers Hinata a hand.

Hinata remains on the floorboard, stunned and embarrassed. And the longer she stares at his offer hand, the more evidence of tears continues to shine bright in her wide eyes. After a moment, lavender eyes closed as she grabs his hand and allows him to pull her to her feet.

As both children bows in respect, murmurs from their viewers are up in the air, watchful eyes scanning over the two. But before they could understand what is being said, Neji and Hinata are escorted out of the room by the servants.

As they walk down the long hall in silence, Neji steals a glance towards Hinata. With her head hanging low, her hair acts as a barrier from his curious eyes. But he doesn't miss the crystal gem that falls, soaking the plush carpet just before they turn down different halls.

.

.

After changing out of his given uniform and into much more comfortable clothes, Neji is lead to the dinning room where his father, Hiashi and Hinata is waiting. Just like the night before, the table is filled with a large spread fit for many and he doesn't waste any time in digging in.

"I must apologize. I underestimate your skills, Hizashi. You've trained him well." Hiashi praises.

Hizashi response is a short nod with a proud, knowing smile.

Neji drowns out the rest of his father's and uncle's voice best he could, wanting to put his guilt aside.

Carefully scooping up some scrambled eggs into his mouth, Neji takes a chance and set his gaze on Hinata briefly.

The moment he entered the room, the sad expression is still present on her face. If it weren't for her puffy eyes, it's the tear streaks that refuses to fade that gave her away. Again, Hinata doesn't acknowledge his presence nor does she speaks.

Neji ducks his head low.

When breakfast comes to an end, Neji watches as Hinata disappears down the hall where he enters.

Hiashi wraps an arm around Hizashi, drawing him in as he peers down at Neji. "Why don't you go find Hinata, hm?" It clearly wasn't a suggestion.

Neji looks towards his father, but before Hizashi could reassure his son, Hiashi speaks again. "She likes to hide in the training ground outside for some reason. You'll find her there no doubt."

Neji gaze shifts back to his father once more, silently waiting for his approval. When Hizashi reluctantly nods, Neji turns around and pauses.

He had no idea where to go.

Turning back around, Neji opens his mouth to ask for directions but Hiashi is already leading Hizashi down the hall, his voice bouncing off the walls as he took control over the conversation.

Neji watches as they turn the corner, leaving him standing alone.

Neji turns his attention back down the hall and gives a small sigh as he walks in the opposite direction.

Over an hour later Neji finally locates the training ground, along with the quiet Hyuga.

Sitting on the cold wooden porch is Hinata. With her eyes trained ahead of her steadily, looking at nothing in particular, her body remains utterly still despite the crisp air.

She doesn't voice her acknowledgment of him, nor does she look his way. Instead she remains silent, lost in her own thoughts.

Not wanting to disrupt the peace, Neji moves takes a seat beside her, making sure to leave enough space between them.

Lavender eyes shifts over to her after a moment to take her in. Along with the traces of her tears, the sadness in her eyes is long gone. Surprisingly, she is able to void her face of any emotion.

She looks like Uncle sitting like that. Neji shivers at the comparison.

A faint breeze sweeps by, tossing their hair and chilling their skin. Closing his eyes tightly, Neji wraps his arms around himself in an attempt to keep warm though his efforts are futile as his teeth chatters violently. He doesn't make a move to leave. Instead he shifts his attention away from her and up towards the gray sky.

He wants to say something- grab her attention in any way but nothing comes to mind.

Neji sulks. He wished he would've thought to ask his father for advice. Being put in a situation like this is not only confusing, it leaves him feeling awkward.

"I don't..like fighting.."

Startled, Neji jumps at the sound of her timid voice. He turns his head in her direction to see her gaze cast down to her now fidgeting fingers. He watches as she rolls her thumbs as if to calm her nerves but it does little as tears begin to pool in her eyes once more.

Wide lavender eyes stares at her longer than necessary but Neji couldn't help it. It's the first she's ever address him.

"Self defense is important." Is what he finds himself saying. "You must be more positive and confident."

A troubled look etches on Hinata's face and Neji turns to look down at his feet. A small frown slowly forms on his face as he wrack his brain for a better answer.

He could tell she hates to disappoint. But putting pressure on herself wasn't going to make her get any better.

Neji thinks back to the way Hiashi had looked at them- at her. Hiashi did nothing to hide the anger in his gaze and the disappointment in voice. Neji is nervous for her. He doesn't want to think what happens every time the expectations aren't met.

It hasn't been long since he's known Hiashi, but he had an inkling this won't be the last he sees the inner rage slip out of him.

"You're father is scary." Neji blurts out. The response to that is a meek nod. Balling his fist, he continues. "I'll make you strong."

Hinata jumps, her head whips to Neji, and when he stares at her with sheer determination, her cheeks turns a rosy color at the sudden declaration.

Before Neji could continue to voice his confidence in her, both Hyuga's attention drifts as a soft flake falls between them. "Look, Hinata. It's snowing!"

Hinata watches as he stands to his feet, his eyes gleaming excitedly.

Lowering her head, Hinata closes her eyes softly, listening as he tells a tale of a past memory of him and his father's snowball war.

In the mist of reminiscing, Neji doesn't see the corners of her lips rise in a smile.

.

.

The celebration is lively, to say the least.

When he caught a glimpse of the maids running about yesterday, rushing to get everything in place, he didn't expect all this.

A large birthday banner is pinned just above the entrance, accompanied by a bouquet of rose gold confetti balloons on either sides. Rose Gold and white streamers twist and curls from the high ceiling while some flutters down. The large chandeliers lights up the entire room in a bright glow, and reflects on polished floors.

On the opposite end of the entrance is where the main table is located. It's small, only holding three seats for the main family. And pushed against the other end is a much long table that stretches far for the guest. There are extra round tables that litters the remaining space. All of the tables and chairs are decorated in pristine white cloth.

To his left is a cart that hold up the largest birthday cake he's ever laid his eyes upon. It had the appearance of being a smooth, moist, white three tier ganache cake. Pink icing drips neatly on all sides. And all bases are surrounded large pink and white piped flowers. Sitting at the very top is multiple candles that surrounds an enormous number 3.

The buttery aroma that wafts tantalizingly in the air is enough to make his mouth water. Right beside the cart is a long table that is littered with snacks and refreshments of all types. To his right is another table full of gifts of all sizes that is piled neatly.

In the center of the room is where majority of the guest stands, socializing and enjoying the soft background music.

All in all, it's more than the perfect birthday party. So many people are here to celebrate this day. Her day.

Hinata is truly loved.

Dressed down in one of his best outfit, Neji continues to stand beside his father, his head turning left to right, searching. But all that enters his line of sight are more unfamiliar faces.

The ballroom is bigger than he imagine as the more time goes by, the more the crowd grows.

There are kids that looks to be his age or so, though he refuses to leave his father's side despite his encouraging words.

Despite his friendly nature, Neji's only concern is to find Hinata. He felt his attempt to get her attention had gone well earlier. He wants to continue to build on their relationship for the remaining time he's here.

For a while Hizashi remains silent. And from the way his eyebrows dips slightly, Neji could tell something is troubling him.

Repeatedly, Neji's gaze sweeps over him- watching how he would wipe the look away and replace it with a false look of content when approached. Hizashi greets people with the utmost kindness, whether if he's shaking familiar hands or introducing themselves for the first time. And the moment they're left be, he is lost in his thoughts once more.

But whatever that was plaguing his mind is wiped clean upon a familiar voice.

"Hizashi? Is that you?"

Hizashi turns upon his name and familiar voice. A look of surprise crosses his face.

A small family approaches. The man stand at the same height of Hizashi. With glasses that sits upon the bridge of his nose, his light brown hair is styled in a pompadour. Much like his father, he is dressed in a simple white buttoned down shirt and black slacks.

Beside him is a women who falls short just under his chin. Her face lightly well made, and her mid-length chestnut hair is curled neatly just around her shoulders. She is dressed in a long fitted, burgundy gown.

And clinging to the women's hand is a girl. She is dressed in a light pink ruffled dress with a large white bow tied around the center in the back. Her hair is in chinese twin bun that is pinned with chinese styled accessories.

Neji watches as Hizashi steps closer and engulfs the couple in a long hug before placing a gentle kiss to the top of the child's head.

"Are you staying long?" Hizashi asks.

"Nah. We're just stopping by to pay respect." The man answers, picking up his daughter.

Automatically she lays her head in the crook of his neck, a soft sigh escaping though her lips. "Gotta get this one home."

"Hey there." The women approaches Neji, offering a wide smile. "Oh, Hizashi. He looks just like you!"

"He takes after Chizuru personality wise." Hizashi says, looking down to his son.

The couple shares a look. "How are you doing, Hizashi?"

"It's been hard.." Hizashi answers after a moment, a flick of mixed emotions slipping through his gaze. "-But we're okay."

The women steps closer and places a comforting hand upon his shoulder.

"You know we're only a phone call away."

Hizashi nods. "I know."

It's when a round of applause erupts in the air that cuts the reunion short and diverts their attention towards the entrance.

There, Hiashi comes into view. He is accompanied by a slim women who reaches just about his shoulders. And at last does Neji's eyes land on her.

Clinging onto her parents hands, Hinata stands at the center of attention. A small tiara sits atop of her head, glistening under the many lights above. She's dressed down in a dark purple gown that brushes against the wooden floor. At a young age, she walks with elegance at her parents side.

As her parents smiles, she does not. Her cheeks are tinted a bright red as wide lavender eyes looks over frantically at the large crowd before her. She begins to inch closer towards her Mother's side in a attempt to shield herself from the wandering eyes.

But Hiashi gave a not-so-subtle tug, pulling her back in place, causing a small squeak escape her lips.

They pause at the trance as many flashes goes off and the large crowd begins to swarm around them. Each taking turns to give their congrats to her before they breaks off once more.

"They sure know how to make an entrance." The woman sighs softly, her eyes lingers on the family a moment longer before turning to Hizashi. "I'm surprised you even came, given everything between you two."

Hizashi could only mutter, "I am too.."

"We should get going.." The man punches Hizashi's shoulder playfully, but his eyes are serious. "Don't be a stranger, Hizashi. I expect a visit from you soon."

Hizashi grins. "Alright."

With one last lingering embrace, the couple bids them a goodnight before making their way towards Hiashi and his family.

Neji switch his gaze back to the tall women, and the longer he stares, the more the similarities becomes clear. She possess the same dark hair, round face, and pale complexion as Hinata.

She was the women in the portrait- Hinata's Mother.

Hearing a soft sigh beside him, Neji turns his attention to his Father. An unreadable expression appears on his face as he stares straight ahead.

Following his Father's gaze, Neji realizes his attention is on Hinata's Mother. Neji frowns in confusion and looks back towards his father.

"What is it Father? What's wrong?"

As if snapping out of a trance, Hizashi looks down and gives him a strain smile. "Oh, it's nothing." Hizashi looks back towards her, a soft smile reaching his face. "Nothing.."

Hiashi was the first to notice them. He leans down to whisper something in his wife's ear, and a surprised look overcomes her features as she searches.

When her gaze finally lands on them, her eyes becomes more soft, a small smile gracing her face as they make their way over.

The women smiles widen once they grew closer. "Hizashi.." She breathes softly, her eyes roaming over his form briefly before meeting his gaze. "It's so good to see you again!"

Hizashi moves in and wraps his arms around her petite form in a hug, kissing her cheek respectfully. "It's good to see you too, Nikko."

Taking his hands in hers, Nikko says, "We weren't sure if you'd make it."

"Of course he'd come. He wouldn't miss Hinata's big day!" Hiashi boasts proudly.

Nikko eyes shifts down to Neji then. Carefully as to not startle him, Nikko lowers herself to his height and graces him with the kindest smile. "Hello, Neji. Do you remember me?"

Staring wide eye, Neji's only response was a violent shake of his head as he unconsciously takes a step back into his father's side.

This causes a small laugh escapes her as she looks back towards Hizashi.

Hizashi squeezes his hand comfortingly. "Don't act shy now." He jokes, earning a small groan of discomfort.

"Say," Nikko starts, bringing Hinata from around her. "Why don't you show Neji around?"

Hinata looks up to her father who gave a faint nod. Without another glance to her parents, Hinata's small hands grasps Neji's and they hurry out the room.

Hizashi gaze lingers on his son's retreating form until he is lost within the crowd.

Hizashi jumps when Hiashi's hand comes down on his back in a mock comfort. "He'll be fine, Hizashi. Loosen up!" Hizashi fixes him a look- to which he ignores.

As one of the servants walks by with a tray of champagne, Hiashi grabs two, and thrusts one into Hizashi's hands.

Downing his drink in seconds, Hiashi passes his empty glass into Nikko's hands. Hiashi motions for Hizashi to walk in a sweep of his arm. "Come, brother. We have much to discuss."

.

.

The farther they go, the more the soft music is drown out. They run pass servants and maids who is hard at work as they twist and turn down many identical halls.

Neji doesn't utter his question as his gaze lands on the back of Hinata's head, watching as her short hair bob from side to side as she quickens her pace.

Neji's gaze drops down to their connected hands and the mere sight encourages him to put any unsure thoughts aside.

When their pace slows, they stand in front of two large out-swing double glass doors. Hinata releases his hand and moves to put both hands on the cool glass. With all her strength, she pushes against the heavy doors until they swings open.

The harsh winds pushes through with a strong force, making Neji stumble back. His hands comes around himself as his body trembles. The crisp air cuts through his clothes easily.

Lifting up her dress, Hinata hurries into the cold night, leaving the teeth- chattering Hyuga to stares at her retreating form incredulously.

Neji glances over his shoulder and down the long hall. He debated whether or not he should follow after her, or retreat back into the warmth the house provided.

Trembling, he trails slowly after her.

A refreshing feeling washes over him the moment he becomes surrounded in the large garden.

Nighttime has fallen upon them sooner than expected. No clouds or speckled stars makes an appearance tonight. The only company the night skies offers is a full moon. The moonlight spills it's white-silver beam onto the garden, illuminating everything in sight.

Neji feet sinks into the thick blanket of white as he moves carefully. Despite the chilling cold, he always finds himself marveled at the way the snow glistens under any light.

If the garden is this breathtaking in the winter, he wonders how it looks when spring comes.

So captivated by the sight, Neji doesn't realize she had stop walking and nearly collides into her. Curiously, he takes in his surroundings once more.

They now stand on top of a wooden bridge, and beneath them is a shallow pond that continues to push and pull in gentle, calm waves.

Hinata's glove covered fingers gently grips the support beams as she closes her eyes, and inhales deeply before releasing her breath in a mist of smoke.

"M-My mother favors the garden in the winter." Her soft voice utters into the night.

A ghost of a smile appears on Neji's face. Mimicking her move, Neji stands beside her, grasping the beam. He looks down at his reflection in the shallow water as he spoke. "My Mother favors spring more than winter."

Hinata blinks shyly as she cast a sideways glance at him.

"There is a forest near my house that we would visit every day. The flowers are scattered everywhere, all you smell is their aroma in the air. And the farther you go, you'll come across a very old weeping willow tree that's so big, it's just amazing. It was her favorite place to visit.." Neji's voice dies down, but his smile remains strong as he reminisce the way the grass would flatten in beautiful waves, reflecting in the light as it moves.

Without a beat, his mind then releases a swarm of images of his late Mother. From her compelling touch and warmth, to her refreshing rich laughter that's laced in vibrancy of youth.

Neji smiles a sad smile as his eyes searches the dark sky. "She always looked her happiest when she was surrounded by nature."

Lavender eyes glistens. "We have a family quote that we say to each other everyday- A promise, that no matter what happen or how far we are, we'll always be together." Neji draws out a long shaky breath. He watches it materialized as mist before he gains the courage to face her. "Since you're family.. I could teach it to you.. if you want."

Hinata turns to him fully, wide eyes locking with his. A small smile graces her face as she gives an eager nod.

Neji holds out his pinky to which she accepts. "Repeat after me: I love you today. Tomorrow. Always.."

"I love you today. Tomorrow. Always.." She recites.

"Now we are officially bonded for life." He declares.

A light blush creeps upon Hinata's face and she ducks her head to shield it. But after a moment passes, she meets his gaze once more. Her small hand grips his and she leads him deeper into the garden.

.

.

As the two left the wintry garden hand in hand, Hinata takes the lead and guides them down another dozen of halls before they reach her bedroom.

Pushing the double doors open, the light automatically flicks on and lavender eyes roams the space curiously.

The room is uncomfortably large. It's filled to the brim of expensive furniture and necessities. A large canopy bed is located on the opposite end of the room, and beside it a large window. The white curtains are linen and is drawn open to reveal the plush window seat.

Her walls are covered in a pretty pink and white floral pattern. And mounted to them are a few shelves. It's contents consists of picture frames and small trinkets.

To the right are two more door, which he suspects is the closet and connected bathroom.

To the left is a six drawer double dresser that holds a three way mirror. And the remaining space is filled with a large doll house with a mountain of dolls, stuffed animals, and plush circular seats.

Excitedly, Hinata pulls him further into the room until they stood in front of her dresser.

In the mist of telling him how her Mother would bring home gifts whenever she is gone longer than expected, Hinata grabs the small personalized box that sat in the center and turns to show him.

Neji watch as she carefully cranks the small box a few times and in moments the quiet room is filled with a soft tune.

When a comfortable silence falls between them, it is then Neji remembers the small trinket in his pocket.

Pulling out the small box, he presents the gift to her. Neji watch as she opens it to reveal a custom made sterling locket.

"It says our family quote! See?" He points. "My Father says you're suppose to put a picture inside."

For a moment Hinata remains silent as lavender eyes stares at the small piece of jewelry and for a second Neji mistakes her silence for distaste until he catches her smile.

Hinata turns to face him, her smile growing. She whispers, "I'll treasure it. Always."

A light blush coats his cheeks at the sudden promise.

They spend a few more minutes in the room, sharing stories and laughter until one of the servants comes searching for her, requested by Hiashi himself.

Hand in hand, together they walk behind the servant in silence. And as they re-enter the ballroom, Hinata is whisk away to her parents side, leaving Neji to stand surrounded by unfamiliar faces. Luckily he doesn't wait long as Hizashi comes and leads him to their seats.

After a short speech given by Hizashi, dinner commenced. Delicious aromas wafts in the air long before the servants enters the room. Conversation soon picks back up as they fills their stomachs.

When it came time for the cake, everyone surrounds the main family as they stood opposite to them. Nikko assists Hinata by lifting and placing her on her hip as Hiashi lights each candle. When he demands for the lights to be dimmed, the flames are a brilliant gold that dances on the wicks.

Everyone breaks out into the traditional song, causing Hinata's flush against her mother at the attention.

Hinata blows out the candles when told to, and a cheer and multiple flashes of cameras goes off in many directions, nearly blinding her.

As it reaches midnight, the guest takes their leave, but not before giving another congrats to the smallest Hyuga.

Hiashi beckons the maids to attend their night shift before leading his wife and brother away to the common room.

After a few more drinks are downed, and an hour or so passes, Neji finds himself whisk from his seat beside the birthday girl and into the arms of his father.

Bidding the family a goodnight, Hizashi leads Neji down the long halls and to the bedroom.

.

.

"Achoo!"

The corner of Hizashi's lips quirks into a light smirk as he assist his son out of his clothes. "Hope you're not getting sick on me."

"I'm not!" Neji insists before firing another round of sneezes.

Hizashi reaches over to the night stand and grabs a tissue, and brings it to wipe at his nose gently. "Did you enjoy the party?"

Pulling his shirt over his head, Neji nods his head, a wide smile on his face. He then goes on to tell his father how eventful his night has been.

Hizashi chuckles at his excitement. He took notice of how quiet his son had been ever since their arrival, so it brought him comfort to know he's growing more comfortable.

"So. What are your thoughts of your cousin?" Hizashi asks moments later, watching his son's reaction.

Neji's smile never cease. "She nice father, don't you think?"

Hiashi chuckles lightly. "Indeed I do. Her personality is one of a kind." After a moment does his eyebrows furrows slightly as his gaze shifts down towards the smooth comforter. Neji couldn't help but cock his head to the side in question as he watch his Father struggle to consider his next words carefully.

"How..do you feel about staying here for a while?"

Neji shifts his gaze aside in thought before shrugging. "For how long?"

"What if.." Hizashi licks his lips before continuing. "Would you be comfortable if we lived here instead?"

The thought of meeting more family members never crossed his mind until he had overheard his father's conversation on the phone. He was content with it just him, his Mother and Father. But once Chizuru was no longer at his side did he feel somewhat out of place.

Now he is exposed to more, and he is surprisingly willing to accept all new things. The thought of spending more time with Hinata is something he wants to do everyday. The sense to protect her, guide her, and cheer her on grows continuously within him. But he couldn't just ignore what he had before.

"I don't know.."

A light chuckle escapes Hizashi's lips as reaches over to palm Neji's face, much to his protest. "I had to ask."

Neji grasps onto his wrists and free his face. "..Do you want to live here?"

Hizashi releases a sigh as he looks up at the ceiling. "The thought never crossed my mind until Hiashi brought it up a few weeks ago, honestly. I declined his offer because it just seem unthinkable."

"What did he offer?"

"He wants me to work with him in his business. I declined for a reason. Not only was it sudden, but your opinion matters to me. I won't make any hasty decisions without your input." Hizashi gazes flicks to Neji's. "I noticed you weren't quite yourself in the beginning, but tonight you seem happy.. Are you happy?"

Neji nods. "I'm happy."

Hizashi gives a nod. "Because if you ever feel uncomfortable, say the word and we'd go home this second. You know that. Anyways-" Hizashi leans forward and press his lips to the crown of his head. "Get some sleep, okay? We'll talk about it more in the morning."

Neji opens his mouth to speak, many questions pooling at the tip of his tongue but he closed his mouth seconds later.

Hizashi pauses at the door and gives a light smile before closing the door behind him.

Neji gaze remains on the door, debating whether or not to call after his father's.

Despite the new changes, he wouldn't trade what he already has for anything else. He wants to go back to his home. He wants to be surrounded by nature everyday. He just wants everything to go back how they use to be.

He wants to voice it all. But he does not.

Instead he tucks the blanket under his chin, and forces his eyes to close.

If only he were able to speak what he truly wanted then, things probably would've been different...

.

.

The sound of a vase crashing onto the floor just down the hall echos, disrupting the quiet night.

Startled, lavender eyes open and Neji raises himself into a sitting position. His head snaps around the dark room, confusion written on his face as he took in his surroundings. After a few moments, his memory begin floating back to him of the event just hours ago.

Neji releases a breath he didn't realize he was holding and looks down to see his hands is trembling.

No memory of a nightmare enters his thoughts, yet he couldn't shake the foreboding that something wasn't right.

Fixing his attention to the closed door, small fists grips the thick blankets around him as the urge to run for his father grows.

Neji's mouth opens to call out to him but his voice doesn't echos into the night. Instead it was a feminine one.

A desperate, piercing scream.

The voice is a loud, terrified plea that cuts through him like a shard of glass. Neji listens as the panic rises with every word spoken before it's silenced with a rapid of shots that cracks into the air- the noise reverberating in his ears.

Neji's pulse quickens as multiple screams falls upon his ears like a chain reaction.

His limbs were moving to their own accord. Kicking the blankets away, Neji hurries to the edge of the bed and slides off- only to drop to his hands and knees, suddenly feeling weak.

Quickly as he could, he crawls under his bed and moves until his back is pressed against the wall.

Hot tears begin making its way down his face, and he brings his hands over his mouth to muffle any noise that tried to escape.

Lavender eyes suddenly widen as he stares into darkness, realization falling on him.

"Father.."

His blood runs cold at the thought. He wanted to move. He really did- but his body wouldn't allow him.

A broken cry remains stuck in his throat as fat tears continuously rolls down his face, blurring his vision even further.

His father is all he has left.

The bedroom door is suddenly thrown open and closed shut just as quickly. For a second, the thought of his father coming to his aid made his body move- but he stops short when he sees bare, smaller feet. Neji remains still- silent, as he watches the stranger pad around the room.

"Master Neji?" Came a panic feminine whisper. "Are you in here?" She opens the closet doors, the creak of the doors easily muffled by the commotion just outside of the room. She pushes everything aside, checking every inch thoroughly before slumping to her knees.

Her voice is low and panicky as she speaks to no one. She turns half way, her eyes scanning the room frantically.

A loud thud against the wall causes Neji to jump, hitting his head against the bed frame.

Seeing movement from the corner of her eyes, the women's head snaps to the side to see the teary eyed child.

Her shaky hand leaves her mouth to be placed over her racing heart as she gave a breath of relief. The maid stumbles to her feet and rushes over to him, pulling him from his hiding spot and gathering the small child in her arms.

Her arms wrapping around him tightly was enough to confirm that this was really happening.

They were all in danger.

The maid pulls away just enough so she could look over his form for any injuries before she stares down into his fearful face. "We're going to get out of here, okay? We are." Is what she says, but her words doesn't reach her rose colored eyes.

She gathers him into her arms once more, placing him on her hip as she makes her way towards the door.

Neji's small hands grips her crisp uniform tightly as he eyes the door. He wants to stop her- Tell her he didn't want to go anywhere without his father but he can't find his voice nor the strength to pry his trembling hands off her.

Just as she reaches for the doorknob, their hearts drops when it turns violently.

Taking a step back, she quickly sets him back down on the floor, and quietly ushers him back into hiding.

It's when he realizes she wasn't going to remain at his side does his small hands shoot out to grasp onto her.

By now tears resurfaces in her eyes as the sound of a heavy boot kicking against the door starts. "You need to stay here." She whispers harshly, tugging away from his grip. "Get back, and d-don't come out!" Was all she said before she rose to her feet, her attention back on the door.

The door is kicked open in that moment, and Neji watches as she takes several hesitant step back.

Black boots are heavy against the floor as the towering and muscular figure draws near, leaving a dark red-almost black trail in it's wake.

The sweatband across his forehead is drenched. His long dark brown hair hangs loose, making his unusual green irides and red sclerae stand out. He wears a black colored mask that conceals the lower half of his face, matching his dark clothes. And along his visible tan skin is multiple stitches.

Twirling the piece in hand, a gruff voice speaks in warning. "I know he's here.."

The maid holds her hands up in defense as she shakes her head frantically. "I-I don't know. I don't know what-"

Gripping the front of her uniform, he drags her closer and presses the gun to her head. "My time is not meant to be wasted.." He leans in close, the smooth black mask brushes against her cheek as he spoke. "Tell me where the fuck you're hiding him and you might live to see another day."

By now she's a sobbing mess, her words incoherent.

The man pushes her down with force, the middle of her back hitting the side of the bed hard. Whimpering, she crawls away slowly, making sure to shield his view of Neji.

Frightened lavender eyes watches as the heavy black boots pads quickly against the floor. First he moves towards the closet, nearly ripping the doors off it's hinges before continuing his search throughout the room.

Two bodies crashing to the floor just outside the doorway catches their attention. Pinned to the ground by her short brown hair, the maid kicks, claws, screams and cries for her life. But the moment his quick hands whips out the sharp blade, her fighting spirit is doused and her body trembles with fright.

Even as the figure looms over her form, his distinctive purple eyes flashes in the dark menacingly. His chapped lips curls in a sadistic grin. "Don't stop now.." He coos. He drags the tip across her forehead lightly, pushing the fallen mud brown strands aside. He continues down the side of her face and tucks it under her chin, angling her head to him. For a while, purple eyes stares at her neck, taking in her pale complexion. In the softest voice he says, "You go and stab me all over, and expect to walk away unscathed." He cocks his head as a deep chuckle pushes through cracked lips. "How is that fair?"

Lavender eyes that couldn't tear away, finally takes in the intruders appearance. Wearing a fitted black short sleeve shirt, there were many rips and tears through the thin fabric and scratches along his skin. Thin trails of blood pouring down the side of his head, matting his slicked medium length gray hair. A few strands now hangs in his face, telling the trouble he's been through.

He goes into a laughing frenzy as his moves are quick. The fist that clench the knife slams down and swipes violently against her.

"Amy!"

Amy's screams and cries morphs into chokes and desperate gasps as her blood gushes and splatters in waves, soaking and staining the floor and her porcelain skin.

The demented man doesn't stop when her warm blood flicks on his face. He doesn't stop from another round of gunshots firing beside him. He doesn't stop when her body is reduced to twitches and gags beneath him.

He is drenched in her dark gore when he finally comes down from his high. His tongue slips through parted lips and slowly laps up the dark substance on them. Distinctive purple eyes shimmers in delight before flicking to rose colored ones, hungrily.

The maid's body stiffen as she watches him pull himself up to his feet slowly. Twirling the blade through his fingers expertly, he flashes her a wicked grin before rolling his head in a stretch. Just as he takes a step for her, something draws his attention. And in a blink of an eye, he takes off running down the hall to pursue another victim.

Both Neji and maid visibly flinch at the sound of random items being knocked over. Remembering that they were not alone, the maid watches as large hands reaches for the glass vase on the nightstand and chucks it has hard as he could across the room- the glass shattering into thousand little pieces as his hiss turns into a loud roar. He whirls on her.

"WHERE IS HE?!"

"I don't know.. I swear! I don't know!"

The man is quick to reach behind him for the cool metal again. With heated green irides, his arm stretches out as he aims the gun down at her.

Shaking her head frantically, she sobs loudly. "I'm begging you.. Please-"

Green eyes lids coldly. "You brought his upon yourself.."

It's as if time had slowed. The sound of the gun firing off, deafening ears.

In one swift motion, the bullet enters her head as if it was nothing. Warm, thick crimson bursting- coating everything within proximity. Her body is propelled backwards into the side of the bed.

Without another glance, the man heads for the door and down the hall, firing another round into the air. Once again, desperate screams and body falling echoes into the night.

But all the noise begins to fade- falling on deaf ears the longer Neji remains tucked and out of sight.

His chest heaves violently and nausea clouds him, but he doesn't tear his gaze away. He couldn't.

Her body slouches inch by inch until she is on her back. The soft features of her face are frozen. As plump lips is parted in a silent scream, a thick stream rolls down between rose colored eyes that is rolled up, staring back at him- lifeless.

Neji doesn't know how long he prayed for his father's safety. He doesn't know when the screams had ended. But even when the sun shone through the curtains and the house is an eerie silent, he continues to stay hidden.

He lays on his side, immobile. Knees tuck to his chest and eyes screwed shut. His tears warms his cold body as they continue to trail down his pale face. He feels drained, but he remains alert.

He strains his ears for something- anyone, but all he is met with is the sound of his own breathing.

It's when a dull thump just down the hall makes Neji whimper. Pressing his back further into the wall, his hands comes up to cover his ears.

One by one does footsteps fills the silent morning, nearing his door ever so slowly. And the more they drew closer, the more his body trembled. This time, he can't contain his soft cries.

One foot is bare, while the other is covered in a leather shoe, comes into view. The figure stumbles inside the room and over towards the closet. Neji watches as they paused for a moment before walking towards the bed.

His breathing coming out harsher as panic shoots through him when the figure drops down to their knees. An arm shoots under the bed, grasping his ankle. Neji screams- kicking at the hand and clawing at the floor. But the only thing his hands comes into contact is the pool of blood that stains the floor.

Neji stills once a few drops splatters onto his face. Wide lavender eyes lowers to dark, sticky liquid that coats his hands.

When he is fully pulled from his hiding place, Neji recognizes the butler through fresh tears.

"Thank goodness!" Genjiro breathes, cupping Neji's face as hot tears flows from his eyes.

Tumbling down either sides of Genjiro's head is a dark heavy trail. The red droplets sliding down his chin and seeps through his pristine shirt. A bruise along his jaw has already formed. And his clothes are ruffled, torn and soaked in multiple places.

Genjiro pulls and holds Neji close when a broken sob escapes him.

Getting to his feet, Genjiro gathers Neji in his arms and limps towards the door.

The second they enter the hall, the sickening smell of metallic and rotting flesh hits their nose in a suffocating aroma.

Paralyzed in the older man's grasp, a horrified gasp escapes Neji's lips as wide innocent eyes takes the sight before him in.

Drenched in heavy red are grey bodies that are scattered throughout the halls. Some lay, while others are slumped ungainly against the smeared walls.

From bullet holes to deep gashes, they were toyed and treated as if they were animals getting ready for the slaughter.

Moving slow and carefully through the mess, Genjiro places a hand on the back of Neji's head. His fingers moves softly in an attempt to lull him into a sense of comfort but it does nothing as Neji's grip on his uniform tightens.

Each hall they turn down is the same. More pasty corpses that are faced and twisted every which way are bedded in a waste of their own thickening blood.

Photos and paintings that were placed along the walls were torn down and painted in red. The plants that were placed on the wooden hall tables were flipped, destroyed and trampled over.

Every door had been left opened, each telling a different story.

When Genjiro comes to a sudden stop, his voice waver gravely. "Sir.."

Neji turns in his arms to see the back Nikko's figure. Trembling hands cling on the wall for support. Her head is turned away from them as her soft cries bounces off the walls.

Down on his knees is Hiashi. His body is slouched forward as his body trembles violently. Tears falls down his chin and onto the face of the body he cradles close.

Unlike Genjiro, the couple doesn't have any scratches or bruises. They still wears their clothes from last night, but they are not stained in blood or ruffled. But that not what catches Neji's attention.

A loud, broken wail escapes through his lips and he is reaching for the limp figure that is his Father.

Suddenly weak in the knees, Genjiro drops to the floor, and clings to Neji. His arms are strong around his struggling form, and he keeps his hold until Neji's is slack against him. Genjiro hand cradles the back of his neck as he holds him close.

From that day on, Neji, Geniro, Nikko, Hiashi, and a few workers is all that remains..

.

.

Once again he is dress in dark attire he didn't expect to wear anytime soon.

It had been hours since he had entered through the doors of the funeral home, passing the smiling image of his Father.

Just like with his mother, the image holds him in such a light that is unforgettable. His long dark hair is pulled back neatly into it's usual low pony tail. He wears a loose fitting long-sleeved kimono that is held closed by an obi.

One could easily mistake him for Hiashi if it weren't for subtle sea of peace that reflects in his features, the slight curl of his lips and the warmth in his still tinted eyes.

As Neji trails behind Hiashi and Nikko down the familiar long carpet isle, everyone rose to their feet. The soft whispers floats into the air, and once again, all eyes were upon them.

"He's only four!"

"First his Mother. Now his Father as well?"

"Such a pity."

Shiny black boots clicks against the floor as a man dressed in a sharp and crisp robe comes into view. He walks to stand in front of the podium, and gives a quick scan of the sea of faces.

He clears his throat, gaining attention.

"We are gathered here today to pay respect to Hizashi Hyuga. I know times is hard, being that we are forced to bid goodbye to someone very important to us. But don't let this parting break you as it's only temporary. Today, we are going to take comfort in the memories of this man. And we are going to push forth, just like how he would want. Know that this man has lived a wonderful life. He was full of life and sought out happiness through the darkest times. He was a beloved brother. A worthy husband. A father. A protector."

The pastor looks towards the first row. "If anyone would like to share a few words. Please." He motions with his arms the floor, and steps back.

Standing tall, Hiashi straightens his tie and walking to the podium. With his head low, he takes a moment to compose himself before looking straight ahead.

"My brother.. If there is anything he was known for, it's being a strong believer of the will of fire. He loved passionately and put others before himself. Something I'm envy of."

"Growing up, we were inseparable. We laughed. We argued. And I always believed nothing could ever come between us as our bond was strong. But as the years went on, we've becomes estranged for several reasons. And in that time- I realized a little too late that I haven't been my best without him. And it saddens me that just as we were brought back together, for this to happen.." The sentence dies as he takes in a breath. Hiashi turns his gaze to the casket, his eyes never revealing his true emotions. "You are loved. You are remarkable, and everything I aspire to be.. I love you today. Tomorrow. Always, brother."

For some reason, Neji couldn't understand why a sudden chill runs through him at declaration.

Neji watches as Hiashi steps down from the podium and a women takes his place. They share a brief glance of acknowledgment, but nothing more.

Her mid-length chestnut hair is curled neatly just around her shoulders, and her face lightly well made.

She stands behind the podium and doesn't waste a second. Her mouth moves, revealing her soft voice. Her words must of been powerful because just like Hizashi, she grasp everyone's attention. With her, a wave of different emotions wafts into the air. He could feel it. There were moments where the crowd would join her in a brief laugh, or remain silent, listening intently as she told her stories. It was as if she had compelled everyone. And he felt this because he too didn't understand why he couldn't look away.

She does nothing to hide herself. The sadness in her eyes and her expression mirrors those around him. But she seems to be doing a much better job at keeping her voice even as she spoke.

Her dark brown eyes suddenly locks onto him and for a moment he wished he had been paying close attention. There is a faint strange sense of familiarity that hangs in the air that he can't seem to shake.

But just as quick their eyes lock, he finds himself looking away under her brief gaze.

Seconds turns to minutes. Minutes blurs into hours. And from there, one by one do people take the opportunity to share a few words that goes through one ear and out the other.

And when the funeral begins to reach it's end, Neji remains seated. He keeps his glossy stare straight ahead until someone steps into his line of vision. Lavender eyes locks gazes with Nikko, the same time a tear slowly makes its way down his face.

Nikko doesn't say anything as she places her hand on his and reaches to wipe the tear with the other. Her thumb lingers on his cheek, her touch soft and warm.

When she stands, she leads him closer to what he dreads. Everyone disperse, allowing them through. Neji rejects their touch and words of comfort as they went. He doesn't want it. He doesn't deserve it.

Nikko takes him into her arms and holds him close.

Lavender eyes doesn't look to the man that is laid in the polished cherry stained casket. He refuses to take what death is offering- One last chance to see his father in such a light before taking him for good.

Instead, Neji focuses on his gold wedding band that reflects in the light. And for a long while, he just stares.

Despite the sadness eating at him, the thought of his father at peace, alongside his mother warms him deeply.

Mimicking what others had done, Nikko guides his hand to touch Hizashi's clasped one. She knew he yearns to feel him. Yearns to feel the warmth he once held, but cold skin chilling him to the core is all he received.

Emptiness fills him.

Finally does lavender eyes flicks to Hizashi's sleeping face. There are no worry lines nor the trace of a smile. He is posed like how his mother had been- Lifeless.

Neji's hand retreats to Nikko's shirt as the tightness in his throat is unbearable. Neji chokes down a sob as lavender eyes roams around, taking in the sea of faces.

His emotions are heightened. And the broken cries that escape everyone around him does nothing but encourage him to do the same.

He feels sick. Empty. But this isn't anything new. And he fears this won't be the last.

Neji takes shelter in the crook of her neck, struggling to focus on the slow rub along his back. It's comforting, but it does little to erase the image of those fearful, lifeless Rose colored eyes that continues to haunt his mind.

He didn't understand then, and he doesn't understand now- She shouldn't have been there.

She should have saved herself.

But she didn't.

And that's is debt he can never repay.

After that day, he was no longer a child, Neji felt. With his innocence corrupted, his mind darkened. And for a while, he struggled to reinvent himself. Find out where he stood in this world he was left behind.

From time to time, he finds himself fishing through the tattered box that he keeps tucked away in his closet for photos of them.

It's a moment of weakness, he knew. But he couldn't resist bringing back those old memories he swore to keep locked away. He wants to let those feeling in- of what use to be. He wants it to consume him so that he could feel.

Because when he's not letting those feelings in, he's sitting in his room in utter silence. Wide eyes no longer watery but rather empty as his mind replays the sick scene.

The image of blood splattering- staining along the porcelain walls and polished floors.

The lost voices echoing deep in his mind.

The rotting smell.. He doesn't know how much more his heart and mind could take.

There were times where the thought of cutting himself off completely sounded heavenly. And as tempting as it is, he couldn't bring himself to do the deed.

He won't.

He had to be strong.

But how?

He know he's bound to let someone in again one day. It's inevitable. No matter how many times he's been hurt, it's a human instinct to want to get closer to someone and he's dreading when that day comes because he knows he won't be able to resist the desire to do so.

Lavender eyes drops to the last name on the wall. Yet another women who also had a big impact on his life- Nikko Hyuga. His Aunt.

Unlike his Mother who was the image of an untamed allure, Nikko was the image of a pristine beauty- a beauty that's known to all. From every breath she took to the bounce in her step is nothing but graceful. She held safe eyes. And spoke soft words.

You'd find her at Hiashi's side always, bearing a warm smile and friendly face. She too, was respected and loved by all.

But as time went on, the more she begin to change. She grew distant. More tired- The evidence was in her sickly pale skin and circle that continued to get darker each passing day. But surprisingly, she is skilled in masking her true emotions on a reserved face.

He doesn't hold much memories of Nikko as he wish, but what he does remember is all her attempts to console him. She was a quiet soul. So she didn't nor could offer the comforting words he seek as she too was at a loss for words. But the way she would rest her chin on top of his head as her arms wraps around him to ease the never ending pain, said enough.

Through the mask of indifference, lays such a warmth only seen by a few. He, being one of the exceptions. There is a deep connection between them that doesn't need to be voiced. But even in the presence of another kindred soul, he remains alone.

His feet carries him down familiar halls until he reaches the two large out-swing double glass doors. As he enters the garden, his lavender eyes looks to the sky. A mixture of grey and white clouds drifts lazily in the morning sky.

Pausing, Neji closes his eyes and takes a deep breath. He welcomes the lingering scent of last night's rain and cool breeze before walking down the stone path.

Each day he wonders how she does it. How she could remain standing strong and tall. How does one continue to move forward? To live.

His feet lands on a fallen branch, the thin twig snapping into two under his weight disrupts into the quiet atmosphere.

Sitting on the wooden swing under the large tree, Nikko stiffens, and she is quick to turn. It's then he is able to see it. To see her.

In her eyes is a sea of hopeless grief that speaks to him. Crystal tears pools down her face as she remains frozen in place. Her hands are stuck clinging to her midsection that is now protruding through loose clothes.

Neji's gaze flicks to her stomach and back to hers. He's at a complete loss for words.

Nikko wipes away her tears and straightens up. Once again, her mask is up, concealing her emotions as she continues to stare back down at him.

Carefully, Nikko slides off her seat to drops down into the soft plush grass and extends her hand for him to take. Neji takes her offer and allows her to pull him close. Instead of her arms wrapping around his shoulders like a thousand times before, she turns him around and gently presses the side of his face to her stomach.

Many minutes passes and he continues to remain still in her embrace. Neji allows his eyes to fall shut, allowing her delicate scent to distract his confused mind. But it's when he feel a strange push against him does his eyes shoots open.

When his startled gaze met hers, Nikko couldn't hide her amusement. Her laugh is short lived, but her small smile never cease.

She places his head back in place and they continue to wait again until they received the same result. Neji's small hands gently grips her loose shirt as a smile gracing his face.

Nikko runs a hand through his hair soothingly, a sense of calm washing over her as she watches him. But even then does her heartache continues to grow steadily until it just became to much.

.

.

Child labor is what cost Nikko her life. But in her death she gave him something to cherish. Even if it was for a short while..

It had been a late afternoon. The sun shone brightly, casting warm rays through the window. It's a beautiful day yet Neji remains behind closed doors, tucked tightly behind his wooden desk.

With a book in hand, lavender eyes moved from line to line, quickly scanning over the words. But after a few minutes does his fingers release the book and he pushes away from the small table.

Head rolling back, lavender eyes stares up at the white ceiling. A few months has passed since Nikko's death, and the birth of a family member.

Giving what his life has become, a wave of protectiveness surges through him. To scare all those who dares cause the infant any harm. Though with all the solicitous thoughts running through his mind, it's easier said than done. "I have yet to meet her.."

Unless he is escorted by one of the servants for dinner, training, or is summoned by his Uncle- Which is rare- he rarely steps foot outside of his room.

If anyone were to ask, he'd answered, "I'm not familiar with everything. I rather not get lost" or "I don't want to get reprimanded for not keeping up with my studies."

This is all true of course, but there is more to it. The truth is he's simply comfortable.

With the memories still fresh in his mind, he doesn't want a repeat. He finds comfort in knowing that it was these four walls that kept him safe that night. So he remains behind closed doors, in the safety of his given room.

But the more he thinks about the newborn, the more the urge to meet her becomes.

And meeting her meant that he'd had to leave the comfort of his room.

Neji's head turns, lavender eyes locking onto the door. He wants to see her. Learn everything there is to know about her. To see her smile and hear her laughter.

Before he knows it, he is out of his seat and already at the door. A hesitant, trembling hand latches onto the doorknob. Already his heart beats wildly in his chest, and it takes everything in him to not turn back. I don't want to fail again.

Closing his eyes, Neji takes a deep breath and he clears his mind of all his troubling thoughts.

Twisting the doorknob, he pulls the door open and walks into the long hall.

Already his vision clouds with unshed tears as flashes of dark crimson splatters on the wall, dripping down, steeping and staining whatever it touches, enters in his mind.

He doesn't know when his pace quickened- let alone started walking- but he continues to push forth, running past the working maids and servants- ignoring their questionable gazes and voices.

When he reaches the nursery, his face is soaked, and his chest heaves almost painfully.

Lavender eyes stares at the pristine wooden door in both terror and utter disbelief.

This is really happening. His mind softly whispers. I'm really doing this.. I can do this.

Clamping his mouth shut, Neji takes a step closer he and presses an ear to the cool wood. His eyes closes upon contact.

He doesn't know what made him do so. Maybe to cool his heated skin, or to listen for anything sign of danger. Whatever it was, he doesn't pull away.

When the muffled gurgles reaches him, he couldn't contain the newfound excitement bubbling within him.

Neji pulls away from the door then, his gaze lowering to the floor. Up until this point, he had always thought he was destined to be alone. Everything around him is continuously changing. From everyone appearing and quickly going to all these unwanted emotions coursing through him.

But for the first time, he doesn't think this. Instead he focuses on what lays behind the door. His lips stretches into a genuine smile. It wasn't much, but it's something he hasn't done in a long while.

The sound of footsteps fast approaching causes his heart to leap. Without a second thought, Neji rushes into the room and closes the door behind him and leans against it. He remains standing- paralyzed, until the halls falls silent before he pulls away.

Neji's attention is drawn to the sound of a mixture of squealing and laughter that fills the room. And when he turns around to face the crib, lavender eyes locks with small, curious ones.

Hesitantly Neji moves until his hand wraps around the smooth wooden bars, his fingers roaming over the script name carved into the wood.

Hanabi.

Curiously he peers through the bars and down at the moving bundle.

A laugh escapes through trembling lips then as he watches a smile spreads on her chubby face when their gazes locks again. She eagerly kicks out her tiny arms and legs at him.

She's so tiny, His mind whispers in awe. So lively. So vulnerable.

Slipping his wrist through the bars, he holds out his hand. Automatically her tiny hand wraps around his finger, gripping with all her strength.

He wants to hold her, he decides but relinquish the thought instantly.

Despite her strength, she's still young- too fragile.

Neji pulls away from her grasp then, fear easily settling back in.

What was he doing? This room is off limits to him, right? He has no business being here. No purpose.

Lavender eyes stays glue to her, watching as the semblance of her smile slowly vanish. Her small lips closes in the forms a pout as a whiny cry reaches him. She continues to kick out, her small hand reaching for him.

With a light shake of his head, Neji takes another step back. No. I-I shouldn't..I can't-

"If you don't pick her up soon, she'll start to cry."

Neji stiffen upon the voice. Turning around, he is faced with one of the butlers- Genjiro.

Frozen in place, wide lavender eyes watches as the older man closes the door behind him and enters the room.

Genjiro walks up to the crib and gives the infant a warm smile. He lends a finger for her to grasp on to, and once again the room is filled with her cheerful gurgles. "Hello, sweetheart." He coos.

Neji watches the small interaction before his gaze switches over to the door, debating.

But all thoughts of escaping is put on hold when the older man gathers Hanabi in his arms. Genjiro turns to him, his smile never wavering. "Would you like to hold her?"

Neji blinks as the older man motions him towards the large rocking chair just on the other end of the room.

Neji's gaze lowers suddenly, his eyes watering- Why? He had no clue. He couldn't figure out why his tears continues to betray him or why his body trembles.

Neji flinches but never pulls away when Genjiro places a hand on top of his head. "Come on." He softly encourages.

Neji complies, and climbs onto the large rocking chair. He only has seconds to enjoy the soothing motion of the chair before his arms shoots up in alarm just as the gurgling bundle is placed in his lap.

Genjiro grabs onto his stunned hands, guiding him. "She's still weak, so your job is to support her neck, like this." He instructs.

Once confident in the small child before him, Genjiro grabs onto the armrest and gives the chair a light push, startling him.

"It's almost time for her nap. The movement of the chair and the sound of your voice will lull her to sleep."

Neji's eyes widen as he watches Genjiro turns, heading for the door. But before he leaves, Genjiro glances over his shoulder, meeting his terrified gaze. "If you're happy, she's happy. If you're calm, she's calm. But if you're sad, she'll be sad. So smile." And with that, he gave the child a thumbs up before closing the door behind himself.

All Neji could do is stare at the closed door, praying for him to come back.

He doesn't.

Lavender eyes lowers to see identical ones staring back at him. Taking a deep breath, Neji raises a finger like he did moments ago and she latches on instantly, a smile slowly appearing on her face.

Neji smiles back.

His job is to make her fall asleep by the sound his voice but.. what exactly is he suppose to talk to a baby about?

Babies are supposed to be surrounded by people who can give proper support and care. Help them remember the important things in life, and just be there for them. Surely he isn't needed for such task. A dark cloud hovers over him continuously- suffocating him. What could he possibly be able to offer her?

Neji frowns. Why would that butler just leave him in this predicament? If he thought his was a good idea then he's sadly mistaken. He just wanted to see her- okay maybe hold her in his arms for a bit and then quietly slip away- But not this.

The sound of her laughter catches his attention again.

The way her eyes holds a brilliant light, staring at him with such fascination makes his heart swell. Her hands are so soft, so delicate yet strong- she refuses to let him go. She feels so light and hold a natural intoxicating scent he can't get enough of.

She's perfect.

He wants to savor this moment- this moment alone with his cousin.

Maybe you could be my light.

Neji rests his head against the chair and fixes his gaze to the ceiling. "A lot has happened before you were born, but it is not your burden to bear so I won't trouble you with the details. But just know, you are not the first. You have- had a sister who've would of been thrilled to meet you."

Neji bites down on his lower lip out of habit. "There are things I didn't get to experience with Hinata, but I will make sure your wishes are fulfilled. You won't be scared or sad. You won't have to know the truth to why only a few remains. And just because people leave me.." Neji pauses as his voice cracks. And before he could stop it, a tear spills from his eyes and lands on her chin. "I won't leave you. I'll do right by your side- what I couldn't do for her. I'll do right, I promise." He whispers.

"I want to hear more of your laughter." Neji gives a broken laugh. Small innocent eyes watches him closely. "I want you to smile everyday. To just be happy." Neji pulls her close, rocking her gently.

"I love you today, tomorrow, always- that's our family motto. I'll teach it to you when you're a bit older and can remember." Leaning forward, Neji presses his lips to her forehead, taking in her scent. "You will be happy, Hanabi. I promise."

He was seven years of age when he made that promise.

And he intends to keep it.

.

.

Three years later...

Nightfall has reached and he had retreated to his room sometime ago. His body is drained from today's activity and nothing sounded more heavenly than a good night's rest. But his plan is once again foiled as he lays wide awake. In utter darkness, lavender eyes are locked to the high ceiling above, watching the silhouettes of trees and leaves dance to a nonexistent tune.

This is becoming a terrible habit.

It usually doesn't take much to get him to fall into a deep slumber, but for a while now he couldn't shake off what happened just hours ago.

As usual, they spent their morning roaming around the large garden. Neji moves with ease and grace as he dodge her reaching hands. Hanabi's laughter is pure bliss and addicting, he can't help himself and laugh with her.

He's been running from her for a while now, and while he is becoming more drained, she is a ball of energy that can never be extinguish.

Neji watches as she draws near and takes cover behind the largest tree on the plot.

With ease, he jumps high and clings to the high branch and pulls himself up in time as she comes. Amusement dances in his lavender eyes as he watches the small child run in circles around the base until she is breathless and confused.

It's when his laughter erupts in the air does she looks up to see him perch high on a branch. Neji couldn't resist the pride that swells in his chest at her awe-struck expression.

Carefully, he drops back down to the ground and allows her to tackle him in a hug.

Given another hour or so, Neji promises to seek her once he completes his study for the day before going his separate way.

It was later that he realize his mistake.

Neji stops by her room a few hours later just as promised- only to find it empty. And when he finds and questions Genjiro working, the older man gives a bewildered look.

"I thought she was with you."

That had brought fear to him. He doesn't know how long they've searched for her, but when they circled back to the garden, they remain frozen at the sight of her.

Smiling proudly from her place on a high branch, is the youngest Hyuga. Bouncing excitedly, Hanabi waves at them.

Panic surges through them both and they are running for her.

They watch through panic filled eyes as her feet slips from underneath her, and she falls forward.

They don't reach her in time.

Now sitting on the plush grass is Hanabi. Unshed tears pools in her eyes and her lips trembles in a small pout.

On one knee in front of her is Neji. He moves his hand carefully, dabbing at the small scratch on her knee with a soft tissue.

"Be mindful, Master Neji. As the older brother, she will look up to you." Genjiro says that spring day. Despite what happened, the older man gives an encouraging smile to the two children.

I should've kept a close eye on her, Neji sighs. But I didn't expect her to attempt what I did.

Neji secures the bandaid on her knee, the small frown on his face never wavering. "There."

His body is shaking. He is angry at himself and her for being so careless. He is scared for the punishment that awaits him. But most importantly, he is glad she is okay.

"Please," Neji stresses, closing his eyes. "Don't ever do that again, Hanabi. You could have seriously hurt yourself."

When he opens his eyes to show her how serious the situation is, he expected to see an even bigger pout on her lips. But instead he receives the opposite.

Despite tears slipping through closed eyes, Hanabi nods her head and smiles big. "Thank you, Neji-nii san!"

Warmth flows through him as he is taken aback at her sudden reaction. The shock only lasted moments before he lowers his head, releasing a breath he didn't realize he had been holding.

I haven't failed you. I'm glad.

That was earlier that day, and his mind couldn't stop playing out scenarios that could've ended horribly different.

Now at the age of 10, he works twice as hard to make sure she is kept out of harms way. He strives to ensure she is happy and her innocence remains in tacked.

After all, she is family. Regardless of them being cousins. he treats her- see's her- as a younger sister. Which is strange as he grew up an only child.

There was no sibling rivalry for attention and no need to share personal items. He had two loving parents to turn to when he was feeling lonely.

There was no need for more than what he already had.

But even as great as it is to be a lone child, it does have it's setbacks. For one thing, he doesn't have the knowledge nor experience of what it means to be an older brother. It was just three years ago he was gifted with her existence, after all. A role he never asked for, yet it was placed in his hands nonetheless.

"Being an older brother mean you have something precious to protect. Some may object to what I'm about to say, but the younger ones always looks up to the older sibling in one way or another. Which is why urge you to be more aware." Genjiro informs. "It's a big responsibility- but a wonderful one to have."

"A responsibility.." Neji muses.

He wouldn't call looking after her a responsibility. It's a gift. An honor. An opportunity to show her just how much she means to him. And as much as he takes his role as the older sibling seriously, he is terrified.

Now at the age of 4, Hanabi continues to grow in many ways each day. He feels it in her movements when they spar. He hears it when she speaks. He see's it in her personality.

Where ever he goes, she is always right behind him- always so eager to learn and play.

He should be thrilled- he is- to know he is one of the few she looks up to. One she trusts. But it is a little concerning.

Behind the bubbly personality, she is observant. Too observant. Bold. Daring.

He can't even begin to imagine the kind of person she'll become when she's older. He could picture her a sly character. Devious, even.

Neji palms his face tiredly at the mere thought. I need to be more careful around her.

He can't help but wonder if it was like that for his father and Hiashi. Did Hiashi take his role as the older brother just as serious? What kind of decisions and impression did he make? If he ever slipped up, how did he recover?

At first Hiashi came off as someone who isn't afraid to go after all he seeks. He makes his presence known. He is the definition of confident; prideful; strict.

But as the years goes by, there is a change in the atmosphere around them.

There is change in all of them.

There is change in him.

Silent. Distant. Intimidating- is added to the list.

The day Hanabi came into this world, it was as if the incident never occurred. Of course he would never voiced it as it's not his place to say. So he remains hidden at a safe distance, and quietly watches on.

The way Hiashi moves- head held high in superiority and power in each step he takes- It's as if he wasn't affected in the slightest.

As if he didn't lose his brother.

As if he didn't lose his wife to childbirth.

As if his eldest daughter never existed.

Pictures of the shyest Hyuga no longer hangs along the walls in the long halls. Her name carved in the wooden bedroom door had been painted over, and remains locked. All traces of her had been thoroughly wiped clean.

Just as hushed voices no longer speak of the past, faces are not crossed with terror or sadness. Instead they look on- untroubled. Content- at the sight of the second child.

But what stands out the most is the look in Hiashi's eyes. Anger and sadness no longer reside in them. Only love and pride- Something he hasn't seen whenever Hinata was in Hiashi's presence.

If Hiashi wants to paint this perfect, stainless picture where she never existed, so be it. His lips won't utter a single word.

Hanabi will continue on living without the knowledge of the past. Without knowing her sister.

Hanabi will be shaped and molded to be what is deemed perfect in Hiashi's eyes. And that she was.

A blind eye could easily see how much Hanabi took after her father. From the brown hair that brushes her shoulders to the tint of lavender in her eyes. She is obedient. Skilled. Confident.

But there is one thing she doesn't possess of him- the light in her eyes. Where his gaze is sharp and intimidating. Her's is warm and innocent. A copy of Hinata.

Maybe that's why he was able to smile.

Not all is lost.

But of course that is naive of him to believe such thing as nothing ever goes according to plan.

The nights are shorter while the days gets longer, and all the while he begin to see less of her. At first he doesn't question it. He grew use to having Hanabi at his side constantly, but he knew one day that would all change the older they got. Still, just knowing exactly who she was with always left him with mixed feelings that he can't push aside.

"..Hanabi.. is just busy at the moment." Genjiro answers the quiet child early that morning. Forcing a light smile, Genio ruffles his neatly tied hair encouragingly. "Master Hiashi wants to spend more time focusing on Hanabi before he leaves for his business trip. Her schedule is bound to clear up, I'm sure. In the meantime, why don't we help each other? You keep me company, while I hide you from Mrs. Misuzu, hm?" Genjiro finishes, giving a knowing smile.

At the mention of the woman's name causes Neji to stiffen, his face revealing his motives to the Butler.

The hired tutor/caregiver: She is short. Old. Somewhat on the heavy side. And has golden hair that usually kept in a single braid.

From what Genjiro was told, the woman excels in nearly everything she does, making her the perfect fit for the job. But just like everyone else, she too had her flaws. Aside from her strict nature, the women intensity rivals Hiashi himself. She takes her job serious, which he applause her for, but her efforts can become suffocating. He can understand why Neji would feel the need to distance himself from her.

Genjiro grins. "Your secret is safe with me."

"Thanks.."

They walk side by side in a comfortable silence. It wasn't often that Neji would seek his company as he is kept busy with his intense studies, and vigorous training. But as of late, it seems the child is keen on doing everything but that.

Neji needs a break. And who was he to deny it? To help pass time, Genjiro would offer the young child encouraging words of advice, and set him up into doing tasks that's out of his comfort zone. The latter is unnecessary, Neji believes. But Genjiro see's it differently.

As the two enters the foyer, they come across two long lines made of the servants, waiting to be put to use.

This group is smaller than it had once been. Not many had been eager for a open position at the mansion, given everything that happened.

Neji stands off to the side as Genjiro gives out their daily task before he sends them off. Genjiro turns to Neji with an apologetic smile. "I know you much rather spend your time doing anything else than watching me work."

Neji shakes his head. "I don't mind."

Genjiro nods his head, motioning for the young Hyuga to follow. "I wish to show you something."

Genjiro leads them out onto the balcony on the second level. The coolness of the early morning seeps through their clothes, chilling their skin in the most pleasant way. It was still fairly dark outside, but that doesn't stop them from watching the darkness slowly surrenders to a bright sunrise of gold and blue.

Genjiro rests his arms along the safety rails and breathes easy. "I live for these days. Just being able to watch the sunrise. What a wonderful way to start the morning, don't you agree?"

He is met with silence, which was to be expected, but the semblance of a smile he catches on the Hyuga's face tells him he indeed agrees.

Genjiro is comfortable starting and carrying the conversations along. Neji has grown to be a quiet kid, and although he would much rather see him bursting with energy as he once were, Genjiro accepts him nonetheless. "Penny for your thoughts, Master Neji?"

The smile is slow to vanish as his fingers begins to fidget. Neji is hesitant as he looks away briefly. He tries not to look bothered, but his voice is thick with rejection. "Did I do something to upset Uncle?"

A soft sigh escapes Genjiro. He pities the child. Just seeing the confusion and sadness continuously swirl in his eyes and face, breaks him.

It's no secret that Hiashi is a hardworking man. He has an image to uphold. And with his career and daughter also his main focus, he doesn't have time for distraction.

Hiashi doesn't have time for him.

Genjiro opens his mouth to deny all sad thoughts that plagues his young mind when a voice speaks out.

"There are roles and rules we all must play and follow." Both Neji and Genjiro tenses at the familiar feminine voice. "Whatever is asked of you, Mr. Hyuga expects only the best. So you must give it your all without question."

Turning around, both Neji and Genjiro is faced with Misuzu. Her thin lips are pulled down in a frown and her eyes are heated in warning. "I would very much appreciate if you didn't distract the child with..whatever it is that you do." Holding her head up, she looks down at Neji. "Now. Come along. We've got much to do." She doesn't wait for a reply. Her long golden braid whips behind her in a flash as she turns on her heels and storms back inside.

Sharing a look with the older man, Neji trails after the woman wordlessly.

.

.

Located deep in the large library, Neji sits at the desk. Lavender eyes are quick to scan the page before him, only pausing to write down his answers before continuing.

A change of scenery is always a good choice, but having a tutor that shows no care for personal space nor breath as she is persistent in wearing your ears down can easily ruin any peaceful setting.

From the sidelines, Genjiro watches from afar as Neji- obvious to the added eyes on his person- works silently.

For a while now Genjiro could only watch from afar as the happiness and warmth he lost and found, is becoming dim once more. Genjiro has no business to interfere with his life, given his position. But he himself is becoming more bothered by the day at the shift in the child's attitude.

Neji is a good child. Not once has he dare step out of line. But that never stopped Mrs. Misuzu from reminding him daily.

"Knowledge is power. The way to maintain it is to study. You must stay ahead of everyone else!"

"Trouble is like a permanent stain on your image. The best way to avoid it is to keep your hands clean."

"Don't complain or adjust. Just do."

So he did just that. Always silently and obediently, Neji will forever fall in line. Fearful of the consequences if he didn't.

What that child needs is a few minutes to himself without that insufferable Women breathing down his neck. Genjiro frowns as he listens to the women's frustrated tone as she corrects his work. Surely there is something I can do.

With that thought in mind, Genjiro slips through the doors and continues on with his daily chores, a plan already forming in his head.

.

.

Even when alone, Hiashi sits with the utmost posture behind the overly large mahogany desk.

He wears his usual suit, but he had long discarded his jacket sometime ago, leaving him in a crisp button down, and slacks. He had been hard at work before the sun came up- which isn't anything new. There had been many early days and late nights that required more of his time.

Truth be told, he wouldn't have it any other way. He lives and breathe business. Because with business, power is constant. And money ensures it.

Being the boss means he has full control over his destiny. He calls the shots. People fall in line- That's just how it's suppose to be. And he would be damned if he ever allow another to dictate his moves.

He will always give his all to remain on top because failure- he is anything but.

Without tearing focused eyes from the screen in front of him, Hiashi reaches for the large mug to his left. He brings it to his open mouth only to swallow air.

"Tch." He slides the glass away from in, the cup clattering against the desk loudly.

Just as he begins typing up a storm, a gentle but firm knock on the large double doors reaches his ears and the wave of annoyance that swims through him only grows.

Hiashi doesn't look up from the computer, his tone is hard. "Enter."

Genjiro slips inside the office and closes the double doors behind him. Genjiro bows in respect. "Good evening, Sir. I hope I didn't catch you at a bad time. Are you free to speak?"

"What is it, Genjiro?"

"I have a request. It pertains to Master Neji."

The typing abruptly stops. Hard lavender eyes flicks to charcoal instantly.

Hiashi folds his hands in front of him, his face void of emotions. "What about Neji?"

.

.

There's two things Neji finds it strange.

Firstly, he is informed that Mrs. Misuzu will not be returning. For what- that isn't discussed.

Secondly, he learns he is now to attend public school for the first time.

He doesn't know how to feel about this.

.

.

Maybe I had been a little hasty with my idea. Genjiro thinks as he pockets today's TO-DO list in his breast pocket. With a nod of his head, he watches as the servants left his sight before he turns down a hall.

He is a simply man, working as a Butler. Who was he to meddle in family business? His opinion didn't matter. He should have been turned away the moment those words left his mouth. But he wasn't.

"I'm in no position to concern myself with your Nephew yet it has been brought to my attention that his potential is being wasted away the longer he remains here."

Lavender squints. Genjiro continues.

"School is essential. It not only offers children a better chance in improving their knowledge, but It helps kids grow into their own person. What he needs is to surround himself with kids his age. He needs experience." Genjiro stresses.

The room falls under an intense silent that should have the older man quaking in his shoes yet Genjiro stands tall, never wavering under those harsh eyes.

After a moment, Hiashi says, "I'll take it under consideration." And with that, he picks up the discarded paper beside the keyboard and scans word for word.

Holding back a smile, Genjiro remains professional and bows. "Thank you, Sir."

-That had been three weeks ago.

And yet, there is little to no change in Neji's behavior.

.

.

"I know what'll cheer you up." Genjiro reaches inside his breast pocket and pulls out a folded piece of paper. "Ah! Here we go." He hands Neji the paper, and watch as lavender eyes scan the words quick.

"A festival." Neji deadpans.

"Why don't I take you? How does that sound?"

Genjiro's watch as lavender eyes drifts. Neji shrugs. "I rather stay here.."

Genjiro cocks his head to the side. "You could bring a friend. The one that always walks with you out of school, perhaps?"

"She's not-" Neji starts, a small frown appears on his face. "How did you even know about it?"

"I found the flyer." It isn't the complete truth, nor is it a lie. But he wasn't about to explain to Neji how the flyer came into his possession exactly, nor was he going to inform him how he saw multiple interactions between him and Said friend.

Genjiro smiles pleasantly as he reminisce to a few days prior.

The school bell rings, signaling school is out for the day. Standing by the gates, charcoal eyes scans the mass for the young Hyuga. He had been going to this school for some time now, but uneasiness remains deep within him.

No longer does Neji remain at home, wasting his talents away. He will be kept busy as he now has more options to choose from. He has a chance to let his opinions be acknowledged and figure out his place in the world. He figures the young Hyuga would be pleased with this, but it seems that it's having the opposite affect.

Hiashi is trusting him. He expects only the best results at the end of the day. Everything has to run smoothly.

I won't fail, Genjiro vows.

It's then a small girl had called out to the young Hyuga, gaining and ignoring the multiple glances thrown her way. She moves to walk along side him as she carries the one sided conversation animatedly.

Her hair is in two Chinese-style buns that sits neatly on top of her head with short fringe-bangs that frames her heart shape face.

When she bids him goodbye, she takes off in a blur.

Genjiro smiles. If his memory serves him correctly, Hiashi and Hizashi is acquaint with her parents. He remember's she, along with her parents had attended all of Hinata's parties, as well as the funeral.

The Sabaru's.

"A friend of yours?" Genjiro ask innocently as he opens the door for him.

Neji leans back against the seat and glances out the window. "..Classmate." He corrects.

Genjiro gives a faint nod of his head as a light smile reaches his face. "I see." And with that, the car pulls off into the street.

From that day on, Genjiro would watch the same scene play out. The girl would always wait for him to emerge from the school and call out to the young Hyuga. She smiles even as she continues to carry the conversation until they reach the gates before she parts abruptly.

"See you tomorrow!" She beckons with a shy wave before running off.

Neji never replies. Instead he watches her run off before turning to get into the car.

The next encounter, she surprises the older man.

She is early. Both hands are clasps behind her as she rocks back and forth, patiently waiting at the foot of the stairs.

She struggles to look nonchalant as dark brown eyes darts to and from the school doors every time it opens- only to be disappointed as he has yet to exits the building. But the moment she spots him, her faces flushes cutely as she waves to him.

She waits for him to descend the steps. Again she's the first to speak- more nervously than before- as she pulls the hidden flyer from behind her back and hands it to him.

Lavender eyes are quick to scan the paper before flicking to her's with an unreadable look.

Her blush-dust cheeks darkens as she diverts her gaze momentarily, a nervous laugh escaping her.

For the first time, Neji speaks. It's brief, but whatever he said had been enough to change her mood completely.

Bouncing back to her cheerful state, the girl runs up ahead of him and gives a quick wave goodbye before he could utter another word.

Once she disappears from his view, Neji stuffs the flyer into his bag and making his way towards the car.

Once inside, Genjiro doesn't comment on what he saw. Instead he carries a one sided conversation as he pulls off the school ground.

That same day, Genjiro takes Neji's bag and encourage Neji to find his other half, knowing how much he yearn to spend time with Hanabi.

Genjiro waits until he turns down the hall before curiously glancing down to the bag.

Opening the bag, Genjiro takes out the flyer and reads over the boldest print. A smile reaches Genjiro's face.

And here they are today.

"Going outside might do you some good, Master Neji." The older man says.

"..I...actually." Neji looks away, his fingers fidgets at his sides. "There's..something I also want to do.."

Genjiro cocks his head curiously.

.

.

"J-Just forget it. I change my mind!"

"Nonsense! This is far better than simply going to the festival!"

Neji jogs to catch up to the fast pacing butler. "But I don't want to go anymore." Neji pauses, thinking of an excuse. "Uncle would never allow it."

"I thought the same when I requested for you to attend public school and look, you're flourishing!"

Neji glares lightly. "You what?"

"Did I say that out loud? Tch. I'm horrible at keeping secrets."

Neji groans. "Genjiro.."

Their voices carries out through the long corridor, their footsteps muffled by the plush carpet.

Nerves begins to eat away at Neji the closer they came to reaching their destination. He decides then to put his focus on something else- Like the progress he's made so far.

Thought still preferring to remain in the comfort of his room, Neji could proudly say he's grown more comfortable living in this large house. No longer does he let his fears and second guessing thoughts restrict his movements. And of course there's still a lot he has yet to do, and more to learn, but that will come in time.

He's changing. Slowly, but surely.

In all honesty, he's glad to have Genjiro within reach. The butler grew on him, he has no issue admitting that.

Genjiro has this annoying habit to bait him. Getting him to step out of his comfort zone, leaving him no other choice but to voice his opinion more. And though he never asked for the extra push, Genjiro is always there to assure him that everything will be okay.

It's comforting, Neji thinks. It's more than Uncle has ever done.

It wasn't everyday they would cross path. But when they do, it's never pleasant. Just seeing Hiashi's cold, emotionless face would make him stop whatever he was doing. No words- No glance of acknowledgement were shared.

It hurts.

So lost in his thoughts, Neji doesn't notice when Genjiro stops and collides into him.

Staring pass the older man, Neji looks up at the two massive double doors with dread.

Flashing a encouraging smile, Genjiro skillfully masks his emotions as he gives a firm knock.

There is a pause before a muffled voice is heard. "Enter."

"Genjiro-" Neji whispers, but his words are ignored as the doors are pulled opened. Genjiro pauses in the doorway. "Master Hiashi-"

Neji peaks from Genjiro's side to see a large hand raised, silencing him.

With an ear to his shoulder and a phone wedged in between, Hiashi continues to scribble down on a notepad in front of him.

Stepping inside the office, Neji lets curious eyes roam the room. It's not everyday he is called into the office, so he isn't too familiar with it.

The office is painted a dull grey. Three large windows sat behind the large desk chair and businessman, facing the garden.

On the mahogany desk sat two desktop computers, neatly stacked papers that is held down by small paper weights, and other necessities.

Diverting his gaze to the left of him were mounted shelves, filled with photos that were turned away, and a few bookshelves that stood tall as the ceiling.

As for decorations goes, plants are placed here and there, along with dull paintings on the walls.

Honestly Neji didn't know what to expect. He figures the office would contain more of a darker vibe- something more fitting Hiashi's personality, but he guess it didn't really matter.

The sound of the phone being slammed in place brings Neji's attention back instantly.

"What is it this time, Genjiro?" Hiashi's face reveals nothing, but his tone tells he isn't too happy.Grabbing his pen again, Hiashi quickly signs his name in perfect penmanship on a document before snatching up the next.

Genjiro motions for Neji to come forward, and he does. Hesitantly.

"Speak. I don't have all day."

"I want to stay at my friend house this weekend."

The motion of his hand stops and Neji finds himself taking a step back, accidentally on Genjiro's polished shoe.

Dark perfect eyebrows dip as sharp lavender eyes rose and locks onto him. For a second, Hiashi is silent- studying him. And the longer he continued to stare him down, the faster Neji's composer becomes undone.

"Are you asking me or telling me?"

"A-Asking." Neji quickly responds. "C-Can I stay-"

"You don't expect me to simply let you go just because you ask, do you?" Hiashi tears his gaze away then, putting all his focus back on the document in his hand. "You have your studies to focus on. I didn't grant you permission to attend public school just for you to slack off days later." Lavender eyes skillfully scans line for line before he lowers the pen to the sheet and signs it off. "You have responsibilities here as well, did you forget?"

"I haven't. I finished studying for today, and I-I'll continue to study while I'm away-"

"And you expect me to trust you on that? That you won't get distracted and forgetful, hm?"

Neji's mouth drops open but no words comes out, his face morphing into one of confusion. He doesn't know how to respond- how to prove himself. Thankfully he didn't have to ponder on it much longer as Hiashi spoke again. "Where will you be staying?"

"With my classmate. The Sabaru's."

Hiashi shifts his gaze to the side in thought. "Well what is it that you're planning to do that you simply can't do here?"

Neji clears his throat. "Her parents are taking her to a festival this weekend and..she invited me to go with them."

"A girl." He states. Watchful eyes studies the child before him a moment longer before he waves his hand dismissively. Neji blinks before giving Genjiro a questionable look.

When Genjiro nods his head- confirming everything, Neji couldn't contain his excitement and allows a real smile to dance across his face.

"Thank you, Uncle." Neji gives a curt bow in respect and turns to leave until Hiashi's chilling voice reaches him. "Fall begins in your studies and I promise you, this will be your last time leaving this house."

The smile is instantly erased from his face as the words begin to sink in. Neji looks over his shoulder to Hiashi only to receive intense eyes glaring back at him.

Neji gives a stiff nod before exiting the room quick.

Genjiro bows respectfully. Grabbing the doorknobs, he closes the doors behind him.

Once in the safety of the halls, Genjiro looks down to the child beside him and flashes him a smile.

.

.

The weekend came faster than he expected.

At first Neji had been relieved. Hiashi- cold blooded Hiashi has actually agreed to let him spend his weekend away.

Neji lets the news sink in. And in a matter of seconds, the smile he wore slowly drops as his nerves continuously ate at him.

This will be the first time in years he'll be away for more than a few hours.

At a classmates house, nonetheless.

Neji couldn't help but sulk then. He hardly ever goes anywhere so he doesn't know what to expect.

Are there rules he needs to follow? What were the Do's and Don'ts to this? Was it too late to cancel?

"Yes, it's too late to cancel. Not only would it be incredibly rude to go back on your word. It's last minute." Genjiro says. "And besides, I had already informed the Sabaru's the moment Lord Hiashi gave permission." Genjiro smiles.

Neji shoulders drops as he glares at the wall.

It's times like these he feels nothing but hate towards the butler.

Genjiro had been eager to lend a helping hand in packing, making sure nothing would be forgotten, and doing everything he could to ease his racing mind.

Genjiro kneels down on a knee and places a hand on his shoulder. "I promise you, you'll have fun." The older man assures him. "But you can always call to talk if you feel too uncomfortable. Okay?"

Neji nods his head. "Okay."

When it came time to leave, Neji made sure to make one last stop.

A pale fist softly knocks on the wooden door before he opens it.

The room is dark as linen curtains are drawn closed, blocking the afternoon rays from penetrating inside. But even in the darkness, lavender eyes spots her small form that's snugged deep into the bed.

Pushing the door wider, Neji enters the room and quietly moves to stand beside the bed.

A part of him doesn't want to wake her- fearing she'll convince him to stay with her persuasive puppy gaze. And knowing himself, he most likely would.

Things haven't been the same ever since he started public school. He didn't have time to spare in the morning to roam the gardens with her like he normally did, nor did he see her during his breaks like he use to. It was hard to adjust- it still is. But he knows it's for the best.

It's something new. Something he didn't realize he needed until he received it. There's a lot of things he has to learn beside mesmerizing important facts from textbooks. And his only regret is not being able to start school sooner.

But the other half wants her to see him off. To assure him that she'd be okay without his presence.

With one knee dipping into the bed, Neji leans over. His hand grasp her shoulder in a gentle shake. "Hanabi. I'm leaving."

Automatically Hanabi begins to stir and lavender eyes flutters halfway open. "Hm?"

"I'm leaving. I'll be back this Sunday, okay?"

Her eyes became wide then- small hands blindly reaching out for him. "I wanna go."

Neji laughs a little at her tired, whiny voice. "You..can't. But I'll make sure to get you a gift while I'm away, okay?"

Even in the dark, identical eyes locks with his as her bottom lip pokes out. Without warning, Hanabi dives right into him, her small arms coming around his midsection in a hug. "M'kay."

"Listen to Genjiro, and behave." Hanabi only buries her face into his shirt as a response.

Neji places a hand on top of her head. "I love you today, tomorrow, alway. Okay?"

"Okay." Hanabi peels her face from his stomach and flashes him a tired smile. "I love you today, tomorrow, and always, too!"

Embracing her one last time, Neji tucks her back under the thick blankets before reaching the object that sat beside her pillow.

A tiara.

Shaking his head, Neji drops the tiara on the nightstand before moving to the door.

Taking a deep breath, Neji gives one last look to Hanabi.

Exhaling softly, Neji closes the door behind him gently.

.

.

It's late in the afternoon when they reached their destination.

Turning off ignition, both charcoal and lavender eyes stare at the two story house.

"I believe this is the place." Genjiro says, double checking the small slip of paper in his hand. Once confident, he flashes the young Hyuga a smile, only to receive a light glare.

Genjiro chuckles, unfazed. "It's now or never."

Neji grumbles. "I choose never-"

"Now!" Genjiro is quick to exit the car. Neji watch through lidded eyes as the older man quickly makes his way over to his side. In one hand he holds the door open expectantly, and in the other, his packed bag.

Sighing softly, Neji grabs the bag from his hand and hops out of the car.

Closing the car door, the two stands side by side as they eyed the house.

It's a simply yet charming white two-story layout. Large, as it covers more land than most, but incredibly small compared to the mansion.

Neji grasp the strap of his bag tightly, his nerves resurfacing.

Genjiro checks his watch and nods, pleased. "Punctuality is key. Always remember that, Master Neji." The older man says as he walks to the door, leaving Neji to trail after him.

Ringing the doorbell, Genjiro folds his hands behind his back and waits patiently.

Neji gives him a sideways glare.

Genjiro smile grows.

Within seconds, the door flies open to a woman standing on the other side.

Mid-length chestnut hair that's usually curled neatly around her shoulders is now swept into an up-do. Light makeup isn't needed, but is noticeable.

Her heart shaped face isn't poised to give orders or void of emotions. Instead she angles her head, her eyes shining bright with friendliness and confusion the longer she locks gazes with Genjiro. But the moment warm brown eyes lands on Neji does the confusion disappears. Plush pink lips curls in a friendly smile. "Hello, Neji."

Chocolate eyes switches over to the older man. "And you must be.." She ends her sentence in a light laugh as she holds out a hand, to which Genjiro takes.

"Genjiro." He offers a kind smile, taking her hand. "I work as the head butler at the Hyuga estate."

"Toga." Toga introduces. Toga tilts her head as her eyes squints playfully. "Y'know. Now that you say that, I remember you." They share a small laugh. "My apologies." She takes a step back, opening the door wider. "Please. Come in!"

Genjiro places a hand on Neji's back, giving him a gentle push when he didn't move after a few seconds.

Once inside, curious lavender eyes wanders, taking everything in sight, in. All in all, it nothing like estate. It doesn't bring a chill down his back. It doesn't flash with exquisite paintings and glasses, nor does it reek of death. Instead this place holds a warm ambiance.

When Neji turns his focus back to the adults, he nearly jumps out of his skin when brown eyes clouds his vision.

Now crouched down to his level, Toga rest her arms around her knees and gives him a toothy grin. "Do you remember me?"

It took Neji a second before he shakes his head.

Toga smile never ceased as she shrugs. "Eh. That's expected. You were pretty young when we've met."

Toga stands to her full height.

Both males were in the process of taking off their shoes when small footsteps could be heard coming down the stairs at a fast rate. "You're here!" Came a familiar voice.

A familiar set of twin buns comes into view and before Neji could properly greet his classmate, she lunges at him, knocking him back with force.

Neji struggles to breathe. Her arms are surprisingly strong around his neck.

"Tenten!" Toga scolds. "Tenten, get up, now!" She looks back to Genjiro. "I am so sorry."

Genjiro waves his hand dismissively, his smile widening. "It's perfectly fine. Kids will be kids."

Tenten looks back at her mother with a small pout, but reluctantly released him. "Sorry," she mumbles, helping him to his feet.

Neji managed to get his other shoe off in time when she grabs his hand excitedly. "Come on! I wanna show you my room!" She doesn't leave any room for a response as she tugs him up the stairs.

Toga turns to Genjro. "Would you like some coffee, Genjiro?"

Genjiro smiles. "I would love some."

.

.

Opening the third door in the hall, Tenten ushers him inside. The room is normal size- something he hasn't seen in a while. The walls are painted a light magenta. Her canopy bed is located off to the side with lights streaming down the curtains.

And just across from it is a mounted tv. The room is filled with the matching furniture set, along with other things that threw him off.

On the other end of the room is where her windows are. Magenta and white curtains are pulled aside to let in the afternoon light. Along the window seat are pillows and a pile of stuffed animals in the center. And just on either side is two small bookshelves.

The whole image is something he didn't quite expect as she's known for jumping into conversations relating to boy preferences.

Neji's gaze shifts towards the other end of the room, more specifically on a shelf which full of action figures and collectibles. He took notice of the few game consoles that took up most of the space on the stand under the TV- Now that, is to be expected.

Neji wonders if all girls room is like this.

Neji switches his gaze to his classmate. Standing with her arms behind her back, her body rocks from side to side. She keeps her gaze down to the wooden flooring, her face tints a light hue. "S-So. W-What do you think?"

"It's.." Neji racks his brain for a answer. "It suits you."

"Really? I'm glad." Tenten claps her hands together. "Okay, so. What do you want to do first?"

With the utmost serious expression he answers, "Homework."

Chocolate eyes blinks. Tenten's shoulders deflates and for a second, Neji thought he said something completely idiotic until she bursts out into laughter. "As expected from the smartest guy in class."

Neji let out a silent breath as he watch her move around the room. Grabbing her books, Tenten gets comfy on her bed. "Are you going to stand there all day or what?"

Neji shakes his head. "R-Right. Sorry."

Neji moves to sit on the bed and take out his books as well.

"I take it this is your first sleepover, huh?"

Was he that obvious? Neji nods. "It is."

"That's surprising." Tenten cocks her head questionably. "Don't Lee always invite you to stay at his house for the weekends?"

Neji pauses as the image of their energetic classmate enters his mind. Neji sighs. "Yes. But I rarely leave my house." When she shot a curious glance, he says, "It's..Complicated."

Tenten nods her head, not entirely sure how to respond. So instead she chooses to distract herself with turning to the correct page. As they work in silence, her lip twitches and her face flushes deeply as she builds the courage to say her next words. "I'm glad your here."

Neji looks up from his book and he nods. "I'm..glad too."

"Tenten, sweetie." Toga's voice carries out from downstairs. "Let Neji say his goodbyes."

The two children walks out and down the stairs to see Toga and Genjiro standing at the bottom of the stairs.

Neji follows Genjiro to the door and waits as the older man collects his shoes.

"Come on," Toga pulls Tenten in the direction of the kitchen. "Come help me in the kitchen. Neji when you're done, you can join us."

Neji gave a nod before turning his attention to the older man. Genjiro crouches down to his level and places a hand on top of his head. "Remember- call if you get too uncomfortable and I'll come pick you up." He gives a comforting smile. "But I do hope you have a good time. It's good to branch out and experience these type of things."

Neji nods- a gasps slipping his mouth when Genjiro pulls him in for a hug.

Neji watches as the older man gives a final wave before slipping through the front door.

Taking a deep breath, Neji turns around and allows his feet to walk in the direction he believes is the way to the kitchen.

Entering the Kitchen, he found Tenten and her mother as promised.

Tenten sits at the Island. Her face rests in her hands and a pout sits on her lips as chocolate eyes watched her mother pull out food from the refrigerator. They seem to be having a conversation- one that she appears to be losing.

Neji stands in the doorway for a few moments, not knowing what else to do. Thankfully, Tenten gaze sweeps over to his seconds later, and her mood brightened instantly. "Neji, back me up! Can you please tell my Mom that you prefer to watch a scary movie than some boring old classic."

"Just because that's what you want to do, doesn't mean he would. He's your guest, so it's polite to ask what he wants to do first."

"I did. And he chose to do homework first!"

Toga laughs, turning her attention towards Neji. "That's a first."

"It won't take long." Neji can't help but say. "Besides, it's smart to get it out the way."

Toga places the last dish on the Island before locking her gaze with her daughter, a playful gleam in her eyes. "Well now I'm even happier that you're here. Hopefully your positive attitude will rub off on her."

Tenten pulls a face. "Hey.."

"I knew I like you." Toga winks. "Now I need an extra set of hands. You two, go wash your hands so we can get dinner started."

.

.

The late afternoon is washed in pure darkness as nightfall approaches.

Located in the dining room is Neji. Arms full of large plates, knifes and forks, dark eyebrows dips in concentration and slight annoyance.

The dining room is elegant. Hanging from the ceiling is a small chandelier, and directly under it is a classy center piece. Underneath the white table cloth is a mahogany table that dominates the space, along with six matching chairs in total that remains pushed in.

Placing the last plate in it's rightful spot, Neji stands back to admire his work. His first attempt to set the table was laughable. But with a little help- After Tenten thoroughly points out each flaw and smiles at the look of discomfort on his face as she assists him- he is impressed.

Frowning, Neji silently vows to never make that same mistake twice.

The sound of the locked front door becoming undone is heard, gaining his attention. Tenten squeals excitedly as she exits the kitchen and speeds past him in a hurry. Neji couldn't help but overhear her greet the mysterious visitor.

Neji smiles lightly. He could remember all the times where he possess the same enthusiasm. Being smothered by his parents warm embrace. He suddenly feels out of place. Desirous.

Neji looks up upon Tenten reentering the dining room, pulling along a tall figure. "Dad, this is Neji."

Under the dark suit is a lithe body that towers over them, but not in an intimidating way. Thick rimmed glasses sits on top of light brown pompadour styled hair.

Dipped in mirth and gentleness is the softest brown infused with green, hazel eyes he's ever seen. Paired with graceful brows, high cheekbones and tanned skin, Neji would've of mistaken the man for one of Hanabi's male dolls.

"Akio." The man introduces, holding out his hand to shake, which Neji takes. "Nice to see you again, Neji."

Hearing this leaves the young Hyuga confused. Toga has said something similar to him just hours ago, he remembers. And just as he opens his mouth to speak (not entirely sure of what), Toga pokes her head into the room.

"Babe, he doesn't remember us. It breaks my heart!" She says dramatically, ending with a laugh.

Akio smiles and ruffles his hair. "That's alright, Son. You were just a baby back then."

"You knew my parents?" Neji doesn't know why he asked that. It's a sensitive topic and he doesn't want to relive in the past during his time here, but it's too late.

Rising to his full height, Akio stuffs his hands deep in his pocket and sighs, a light smile gracing his face. "Knew them? We grew up with them. Mainly you're father."

Akio nods his head towards the where Toga is placing the last dish in the center of the table. "We can talk over dinner."

Lavender eyes washes over each dish that litters the wooden table. But the look is nothing compared to the taste. If he thought it was hard not to drool from looks alone, it was difficult to hold back now as each flavor bursts in his mouth.

That night Neji has learn a few things:

In their late twenties, Toga and Akio is happily married. While Toga is a respectable chef, Akio is a college professor.

They were childhood friends with his father, and later, his mother. They've always had a healthy relationship, but being that his parents had moved away and everyone's conflicting schedules, it became harder for them to come together.

"I doubt you remember but your father had reintroduced us at your cousins birthday party." Akio informs.

Neji remembers that day well. He had been distracted- too eager to gain his younger cousin attention all night. And even though he had been successful, he just wish things had ended on a pleasant note.

"So Neji," Akio says, gaining the young Hyuga's attention once more. "It may be early, but any ideas of what you want to pursuit career-wise?"

Neji shrugs. "I haven't gave it much thought to be honest."

"That's alright. You got a lot of time to decide on that."

"So." Toga begins, playfulness twinkling in her dark eyes as she nonchalantly takes a bite of her food. "You and Tenten saw each other briefly whenever we were around your parents but never interacted. So how exactly did you two become friends after all this time?"

"Mom." Tenten groans, her face tinting crimson.

"What? It's important."

"Your mother is right." Akio presses his finger into the table with every word. "We need to know everything! Who spoke to who first?"

"Tenten spoke to me first." Neji answers truthfully. "Every day, actually.."

"You're still new and you're always alone. And when you're not, you're always quiet." Tenten defends, shifting her gaze away momentarily. "And besides, i-it's not like we're total strangers.." That wasn't a lie. But it wasn't the full truth either. But she couldn't come out to say she prefer his company than most.

"You hear that, Honey? Our daughter is shooting her shots early. I'm so proud!" Akio winks towards Neji. "She takes after me."

Toga bursts out laughing at this. "You?! I beg to differ!"

Akio sends her a playful glare. "Don't go there.."

Mildly curious and amused, Neji remains silent as he eats.

Lavender eyes watch the playful banter between the adults, neither reading between the lines nor taking note of his blushing classmate.

.

.

Once dinner and dessert had been devoured, the four decided to move the conversation to the living room.

Neji plops down on the leather couch, feeling more relaxed than he thought he'd be.

It felt good. Being able to sit at the table, surrounded by others. At first it was odd as it had been with people he isn't too familiar with. But the more they spoke, the more they opened up to him- sharing information and doing everything they could to make him feel comfortable.

Lavender and brown eyes watch as Toga moves towards the TV to select the movie, while Akio made his way towards the large shelf in the farther corner.

Akio runs his fingers along the spine of the books until he finds what he's looking for.

"Here it is." Akio mutters to himself as he pulls out a large book from the shelf. He moves over to the couch and places himself in between the two children. "This was a gift from your mother, actually. Thought it be a great idea to keep all the pictures together and decided that we all need a scrapbook."

"And she was right." Toga scoffs, throwing him a knowing look over her shoulder. "Besides you and Chizuru fighting over them, you kept stealing everyone's pictures and lied about it until you were blue in the face."

"In my defense, I took most of them, so I have every right to claim the ones I want."

"No. There's a difference from taking the photo and photo-bombing them." Toga laughs, standing. She moves to sit on the coffee table in front of them and stare down at the book.

"Oh! This is my favorite." Toga points. In the photo is a much younger version of herself. Toga's arms are wrapped around a young Chizuru, keeping her locked in place as she presses her lips into her cheek. All the while, Chizuru's eyes are closed shut and her mouth is open in a laugh from the assault.

Neji let his gaze lingers on his mother's face a while longer. His shoulder's drops in a sigh. I miss seeing you smile..

Akio gives a cheeky grin. "That's my favorite picture too."

"Oh stop." Toga sends him a look. "There's kids in the room."

Akio waves her off. "Oh, they don't know what we're talking about." He nudges Tenten playfully. "Do you, sweetie?"

Toga smack his shoulder playfully before turning her attention back to the photo book. "And there he goes again. Ruining yet another wonderful picture."

This time it is of Hizashi and Toga. This was taken in a park. By their choice of heavy clothing, it was sometime in the fall. Sitting on the swing, the picture captures Toga from a low point of view. A light blush from the crisp air colors her cheeks cutely. A bright smile graces her face as she looks into the camera. And just off to the side stood Hizashi. He holds what looks to be an expensive camera to his face, a light smile on his face as he appears to be in his own world. And in the background is a slightly blurry version of Akio, just barely getting into the frame.

Laughter erupts from both children as Akio poorly defends his reasoning.

The next picture is of Hizashi and Chizuru in their teen years. This had been taken on a train. The sun was starting to set, different hues of orange raining down, casting a golden ray through the windows. They both had been asleep. Resting her head upon his shoulder, drool trails out of Chizuru's mouth and down her chin. She has a drowsy smile on her face as she slept peacefully. Hizashi's body leans into her, a relax look on his face as he rests his head against hers.

Toga cocks her head in thought. "I can't remember where we were heading."

"It was an overnight trip to Sasebo. See, we took this one in the Nagushiyama Park. And this one in Senryugataki Park." Akio answers, pointing to each photo. A smirk then makes an appearance on his face. "Now that trip holds some memories."

Toga rolls her eyes, doing her best to fight the blush that threatens to show. "Oh stop it!"

Flipping through the pages, Tenten points to a picture that catches her attention. "Which one is your father?"

Taken at a bar, Akio stands in the center. His face is tinted red as he grins cheekily, and in his hand is a large glass of what looks to be alcohol. His arms are draped around the twins, pulling them in. The twin on the right eyes are closed as he bears the same grin, the bridge of his nose and cheeks tells just how wasted he is. He wears a fitted white shirt, the first few buttons had came undone sometime that night, paired with dark gray pants. The twin to the left attention had drifted as his head is turned slightly. He looks to be more calmer compared to the others, though you couldn't miss the tint to his face and lidded lavender eyes. Around his neck is a light blue scarf. And over his white buttoned down shirt and tie is a plain black vest.

Neji follows her finger and he opens his mouth to answer- only to pause. Eyebrows furrows as lavender eyes switches from one face to the other. After a moment, he confidently points to the man on the left. "This one."

"Right." Toga nods. "In the beginning it took us a while for us to tell them apart. Aside from their different personalities, Hizashi has a mole just above his eyebrow and on his jaw. You can barely see it here." She explains easily.

"I was so glad they broke out of wearing the same thing." Akio says, shaking his head. "I mean I get it. It's the whole twin thing, but it was so confusing! It must be hard keeping tract of your stuff if you have the same thing."

"I think having a twin could be fun." Tenten argues.

Akio shrugs. "It's only fun when you could pull one over on others."

"It's more than pulling pranks." Toga interjects, "Having a twin is like having your first friend since birth. Now that's what I call a bond."

Akio scoffs lightly and mutters, "Yeah, until it ends."

Soft chocolate eyes instantly turns cold in warning at his words. Without needing an explanation, Akio nods his head and draws his attention back to the book.

The next picture holds all of them. Hizashi stands in the background, clearly distracted as his face is turned away to watch Toga in mid-pounce- her target: Akio. And right in the center is Chizuru and Hiashi. Chizuru stands behind him, wild brown eyes full of mirth as her arms comes around him- her fingers pulls at his cheeks and forces a smile out of him. With eyebrows slightly furrowed, Hiashi's lavender eyes are wide and a small blush coats his face- clearly not expecting her playful assault.

Neji turns the page. The next few pictures is of Toga and Akio. And each of them are beautiful. Neji couldn't help but wonder how they came to be. What was it that drew them together in the first place.

Does a bond like this truly last?

After spotting a few more memorable moments and photobombs, Akio closes the scrapbook and stretches his arms out in front of him. "Alright. I think that's enough reminiscing for one night. Let watch this movie and head to bed. Sounds good?"

Akio stood from his spot and walks back to place the book amongst the others in it's rightful spot. "You can look this anytime you want, Neji. Our home is always open to you."

Neji is taken aback. "T-Thank you."

Toga turns off the lights before making her way back to the couch. She takes her place right beside Akio on the love seat, and snuggles into his side.

Over an hour and a half, the movie finally comes to an end, and they decided to go their separate ways: the parents in the kitchen, while Neji and Tenten heads back into her room.

After completing their forgotten assignments, and dressing for bed, the two play her game console. "You're a quick learner." Tenten commented as she lost to him yet again.

It's not long when Toga come in. She too is prepared for bed. With her hair pulled into a high bun, she wears a loose shirt and matching bottoms. Toga offers to show Neji the guest room. And when he prepares to stand, Tenten had grabbed his arm, pulling him back down. "I thought he was staying in here!"

Toga gave her a knowing look before sighing. "Alright. Fine- but one of you-" She points between them. "On the floor."

When the door was closed again, Neji turns back to his classmate to see a wide smile greeting him. "Yay. Now we can continue to talk."

Tenten releases her hold on him as she rose from her spot on the floor. "You know," she starts, making her way to her closet. She gathers up blankets and pillows in her arms. "I don't see why only one has to take the floor. Normally me, Ino and Sakura- you know, the two loudest girls in the class- we always sleep in my bed." Tenten shakes her head and lays the items out on the floor. "It makes no sense."

Neji could only shrug his shoulders. There had been many nights Hanabi had entered his room and claimed his bed. He never had problem with it, nor did he see the issue. But if it's one of the rule here, he will make sure to follow it.

.

.

The bedside lamps and game console had been turned off long ago, the only light source comes from the muted television. Random late-night cartoons is what is displayed on the large screen but no eyes are viewing it.

Despite his body growing lax against the soft mattress, lavender eyes blinks up at the ceiling. Being a nice host, Tenten had insisted he take the bed, and before he could protest, she began making herself comfortable on the floor.

Leaving him no choice, Neji pulls back the thick blankets and crawls under it. The sheets smelled of roses. Subconsciously, he snuggles into her plush pillow, encouraging the soft and gentle scent to cloud his senses pleasantly. And just as he was seconds away from dozing off does he feel a dip on the other side of him.

"The floors uncomfortable," Came her response. Turning on his back, Neji doesn't say anything. From the corner of his eye, he watches as she pulls the blanket back and climbs in. The moment her head hits the pillows and her body is under the blanket does a content sigh slips through her lips. Her body trembles at the warmth and she buries her face further into her pillow.

Laying his clasped hands across his stomach, lavender eyes falls shut, and he begs his mind to rest but he is now wide awake.

He's uncomfortable. He knows this because his thumbs are now moving in a slow, circular motion- a move he does whenever he is upset or his nerves are flaring (more so the latter). And the feeling of her gaze on him isn't helping.

When he gains the courage to turns his head, he see half lidded chocolate eyes staring back at him. Her voice laced with tiredness, but she continues to smile at him. "I'm really happy you decided to come. Are you have fun so far?"

"I am. Thank you."

Tenten gave a nod, their gazes locking for a few seconds before her eyes flutters close.

"..Tenten?"

"Hm?"

Neji looks away, a look of confusion sets on his face easily. "Why did you invite me to the festival?" The question had been plaguing his mind every since the day she invited him.

Like she told her parents earlier, he is still fairly new. He doesn't really know, remember, nor care for their classmates. That much is clear, or so he believes. Yet here she was, not completely a stranger, but not someone he is particularly close to. Every since the first day he step foot into the school, she had been persistent in gaining his attention. Why?

Tenten flashes him a toothy smile as she answers: "Because we're friends."

.

.

From the moment her eyes flutters closed again and her breathing became more even the deeper she gave in to sleep, lavender eyes never left her face.

It had been an hour since she bid him a goodnight. And he remains more awake than he did before.

Neji doesn't understand. He asked the plaguing question. She gave him what she believed was the simplest answer. But it was an answer he wasn't prepared to receive.

Friendship is unconditional acceptance. Compassion. Love. That, he understood. But what left him confuse is why she is focused on him.

As antisocial as he is, he doesn't ignore his surrounding. Tenten Sabaru is known for her cheerfulness. She is liked by teachers and students. She's Intelligent. Active. Kind.

He finds it strange how each day she would always find a way to pull him into conversations. And over time his short, honest responses are becoming longer and confident the more they speak.

He doesn't show or voice it, but there is something about her that makes him feel at ease.

Neji turns on his side so he is facing her.

His first mistake was viewing her like an open book. Because there is more to her that he has yet to discover. And the longer he ponders on it, the more he doesn't mind if it takes him years to understand her.

I wants this to work, he prays. To have someone to confide in. To share memories with. To always remain by his side.

Neji allows his eyes to fall shut, sighing softly through his nose.

He just hopes this one will last..

.

.

Standing in front of the body length mirror, dark eyebrows dips in a small frown as lavender eyes is what stares back at him. He is dressed in a simple dark gray yukata and sandals, while brown strands is tied back low as usual.

What the world sees is beautifully rare tinted eyes on a pale complexion that belongs to a child. He doesn't portray confusion. Loneliness. Or sadness. So there's no need to believe there is ever a problem.

But what the world doesn't see is the storm of emotions clouding his senses. His erratically beating heart. Nor the thoughts that haunts him day and night.

He shouldn't be exposed to such things, but it's all he feels.

Neji lowers his gaze and runs a warm finger over the cool glass.

For some reason his mind wouldn't rest. Instead of focusing on today's activity, his mind is plagued with images of his late parents.

Neji is glad he didn't back out despite how nervous he was when he first came to the Sabaru's home. But that doesn't mean he isn't feeling the pull of his comforting room.

Leaving home the first time was never easy, so why did he think this time would be?

The Sabaru's is a loving family. They gave more than he expected. Not only had they welcomed, acknowledged and sheltered him. They were brave enough to live in the past even for a little while.

Lavender eyes flicks up and locks back onto his reflection.

The goal is to have fun. Gain experience. He didn't expect to learn about his parents and their past.

As sad and home sick (if you could call the estate a home) as he is, he shouldn't sulk. There is more to learn of them, and the Sabaru's are willing to fill in the blanks.

Lavender eyes flares determinedly. He won't let this opportunity slip through his fingers.

Just before his thoughts could pull him into a familiar dark place, the feel of a hand coming down on his shoulder gains his attention.

Startled, trained hands latches onto offending wrist in a tight grip and he whirls around to come face to face with startled chocolate eyes.

With her hair pinned up in a single bun, Tenten is dressed in a black yukata that is decorated in different variety of flowers, with a bright pink obi wrapped at the center.

Tenten jumps back, equally startled. Dark eyes roams his tense form before she met his gaze.

"Sorry." Neji mutters, releasing her quick.

Holding her wrist to her chest, Tenten wipes the startled look away and flashes him an unfazed smile. "Sorry." She laughs. "Are you ready to go?"

Awkwardly nodding, Neji follows her out the room and down the stairs.

"Awe, look at you two!" Toga gushes from her place at the bottom of the stairs.

Without warning, Akio slides into view with a camera in hand. He begins snapping multiple pictures, nearly blinding the children.

"Daddy!" Tenten groans.

"Sorry, Ten. Gotta get a head start on your photo book." He exclaims, rapidly hitting the shutter button.

.

.

The moment they step out of the car, the fragrance of different foods done to perfection wafts in the air. Together the children walk along side her parents as they follow the row of lights and the sound of laughter of all age.

Lavender eyes trails over the wave of people around them. There must be thousands partaking this festival as the path grows more cramped by the second.

"It's easy to get lost, so stay close." Akio warns.

This encourages Tenten to shyly grab onto Neji's hand. He watches as her small fingers laces with his in a gentle but firm grip. Having done the same for Hanabi on many occasions, Neji doesn't protest or pull away. His hand grips back, which causes a small blush to color her face.

With ever-growing smiles, everyone is dressed their best. While some skip and run- overly excited, others walk at a much calmer pace. Their heads turned upward towards the night sky as they took in every detail put into making this day happen.

Inside each decorative lantern that hangs in rows is a flame so small yet powerful enough to illuminate like stars against the inky black night. Bathing everyone and everything in a gentle glow.

The sound of feet on the paving path is almost lost in the lively tempo that escapes the hidden speakers. The tune fills the air in waves, compelling everyone to sway along the beat.

The two watch as Akio grasp Toga's hand and lead her into the ever growing circle of dancing bodies.

When Tenten flashes him a cheeky grin, he already knew what is on her mind. Wordlessly, Neji allows her to pull him inside the circle and guide him along the floor.

From visiting stalls with traditional Japanese masks, flying wish papers, and playing multiple games, their arms is full with gifts and goods. And just when Neji thought this night couldn't get any better, Akio leads the way to a secluded area up a hill. From there they had a breathtaking view of the festival down below.

Taking a seat on the bench, Neji sorts through his winnings.

His first souvenir is a black and gold bird mask with a large beak. He had brought this from the first stand that caught his attention.

Next is a plush stuffed panda bear and bunny rabbit he won at a game of bottle ring toss- which had been surprisingly easy despite Toga's sour claim of the game being rigged.

And lastly, from his second attempt at playing a game of balloon darts, his reward is a luck-boosting talisman.

Neji smiles contently. His skills doesn't tell this is his first time at a festival. Though the same couldn't be said about the girl beside him.

All the excitement that danced on Tenten's face had diminished, her bright smile now replaced with a pout as she complains about her losing streak. In her hand is the one and only prize she had won that night.

She had been to many festival, he remembers her saying- which explained her exceptional aim in the game of ballon darts. Sadly, the rest of the games weren't in her favor like she had hoped.

What sounds like a loud fuse going off, followed by a crack in the distance gains the fours attention. "Here we go." Toga smiles.

One by one, hot sparks of vivid colors soars into the night sky, igniting brilliant lights. They're crafted beautifully, resembling different patterns and shapes before they're extinguished to nothing.

From the corner of his eye, Neji watch how the bright lights illuminates her face. No longer does Tenten continue to pout. Instead her lips lifts upward in awe, revealing a dimple as she watches the display.

Neji lets his own lips curl in a light smile as he fix his gaze back to the night sky.

When the show begins to wind down, the more rapid the fireworks become. And when the last round dies out, applause ripples all around.

Gathering their belongings, Neji listens to the calm conversation that buzzes around him as they made their way to the parking lot.

Once inside the car, Neji leans back into the seat, and looks out the window. As the car pulls off into the empty street, lavender eyes watch as the festival sight grew farther but his smile never ceased.

Not once does the incident sit at the forefront of his mind. He doesn't think of Hiashi or anyone for that matter. And most of all, the ache to return to the mansion no longer resides in him.

Genjiro had pushed him out of his comfort zone. And once again, he had been right all along.

He doesn't want this night to end.

.

.

Entering the Sabaru's home, Akio reaches for the light switch, lighting the small foyer in a soft glow.

Toga covers her mouth as a yawn hits. "That was fun."

"Indeed it was." Akio agrees, helping his wife shrug off the light jacket he handed her hours ago.

Kicking off her sandals, Tenten looks towards her parents hopefully. "Can we watch a movie before we go to bed please?"

Toga and Akio share a look before silently agreeing. "Alright. You two go get changed first."

Excitedly, Tenten grabs Neji's hand and leads him up the stairs.

Entering the room, Tenten makes a beeline towards her dresser while Neji heads for his bag located in the far corner.

Neji places his bag of winnings down and sorts through it once more.

During the ride back, Neji remembered his promise he made to Hanabi. After a while, he figured the stuffed rabbit would better suit her. And as thanks for everything he's done, he will gift Genjiro the luck boosting talisman.

Smiling, Neji begins to search for his nightwear.

"Even though I didn't win much this time, I had a lot of fun." Tenten looks over her shoulder to Neji. "How about you?"

"I..I did too."

Tenten smiles. "I'm glad."

Lavender eyes shifts over to the stuffed panda bear that sat at the top of the bag then. Taking, the soft toy in his hand, his fingers began drawing random patterns into it's soft fur. After a moment he turns to her. "Here."

Neji watch her reaction. A look of surprise is the first to surface as she stares at the gift before utter happiness overtakes her. Tenten clutches the stuffed panda bear to her chest, her face flushing. "Thank you!"

Neji nods, a faint smile gracing his face.

.

.

Now dressed for bed, Neji exits the bathroom and steps into the hall.

As he closes the door behind him, he see's Tenten waiting for him just a few feet away. She looks up when he nears, her cheeks tinting even brighter as she grabs Neji's hand. She places the light item in his palm and closes his fingers around it.

"For luck." She says. Quickly, she turns away and moves down the hall.

Neji is left standing for a few seconds, watching as she disappears around the corner before looking down at the item. It's an amulet, he realizes. "Yakuyoke Omamori." Neji utters softly.

He couldn't stop the warm feeling that spreads through him.

Without another thought, Neji hurries after her.

As the two descend the stairs, and enters the living room, a familiar voice from television is heard. Tenten groans. "We agreed on a movie. Not the news."

Tenten moves to stand beside the armrest, and without warning she dives into her Fathers lap.

Akio grunts when her elbow jabs him in the stomach. "Wait a minute, Ten." He says, righting her beside him. Akio turns his attention back towards the TV, his eyebrows furrows in worry.

Pouting, Tenten looks towards Toga. "Mom-"

"Shh!" Toga quickly waves at her, never taking her eyes off the screen. Reaching for the remote, she turns up the volume.

Neji and Tenten share a look, taking note of the now tense atmosphere that looms over them. Turning their attention towards the TV, it's takes seconds for the color drain from their faces.

Police cars are parked up and down the street, surrounding a mansion. The cameras zooms in, showcasing just how horrible the scene is. Ash colored smoke slowly drifts through multiple windows that are now scorched and shattered. The large front double doors now hangs off it's hinges, and the entire layout lays in utter disaster.

The paramedics moves quick through the destroyed doors, ushering people onto stretchers and carrying them to the waiting ambulance.

Inside is no better as shards of expensive glasses lays on the floor. Picture frames are torn and painted in a familiar dark red.

Clothes. Papers. Personal Items- it all had been removed from their rightful places and is now scattered along the floor in a cluttered mess.

Whatever the anchorwoman continued to explain no longer reaches Neji. The only thing holding his attention is the small trampled tiara the cameras zoomed in on.

The images were brief. The sight of her large bed tipped on it's side; the mirror to her dresser is shattered; and clothes carelessly thrown aside- It made his skin crawl.

"I don't understand.." Tenten's small voice breaks through, her gaze switching from the television to her parents. "What's going on?"

Toga's brings a shaking hand over her mouth. "That's-"

"-My house.." Neji finishes. It feels like a cold fist is wrapped around his throat in a vice grip. His knees begin to lose feeling and he grips the armrest tightly.

He could feel their worried gaze on him, but he doesn't turn to them. Lavender eyes remains locked to the screen.

Neji's hand tightens around the small charm.

And just like that, the heaviness returns.

.

.

This can't be happening.

Not again..

His strength is nonexistent as the wooden headboard and plush pillows supports his weight as he's leans back into them. For hours, heavy lavender eyes remains open, watching as darkness slowly morphs into light.

A gentle breeze sweeps through the open window, making the curtains dance to a silent beat. Soft warm beams streams through and onto his face as if to stop the slight tremors his body gives.

He feels nothing.

What had been a breath of fresh air yesterday, today his mind is clouded with grey. And it continues to grow darker as the days passes by.

He couldn't warm the icy discomfort that reside in his bones. It's difficult to focus. It's difficult to breath.

It's been days since he last saw the news. Days since he heard from anyone. Days since he last slept.

What's going on?

Before, when sleep claims him, he'd dream of the past- Things that will never be whole again. But he had long ago accepted that. Because in those defenseless hours, dreams hold meaning. They bring comfort. Freedom. Love.

But now, all he wants to do is stay awake. Because as good reliving those perfect moments is, dreams are reminders of the ugly truth that leaves him twisting and turning in his sleep. The soft whimper of his own voice echoing throughout the room brings him out of the nightmare only to enter another.

And instead of voicing his terror or running into comforting arms like he use to, he remains more still than a statue as his mind replays each moment vividly like a sick joke.

Why does this keep happening?

So he fights to stay awake. He fights with everything he has until exhaustion swallows him whole, leaving his body and mind to forcefully power off. And in those times, his mind is dreamless. And he is finally at peace.

He doesn't remember when she started coming into his borrowed room, but he doesn't complain.

He couldn't hide the shock- the terror, from her. He doesn't try to. She had already seen him at his worse.

In the final moments of his body giving into sleep, and when lavender eyes flutters open- she is always there. Offering her presence. But even with this, it's not enough.

For the first time in years, he feels cold. Scared. Alone. And he is sick of it.

When will this end?

.

.

The drive to the Mansion is quiet. As his fingers absently toys with the stuffed rabbit's fur, Neji keeps his gaze out the window, watching as the world went by in a blur.

Beside him is Tenten. As her hands fiddle with her seat belt, she is looking out her own window, lost in her own thoughts.

And up front is Toga. Dark chocolate eyes are focus as she scans the streets. Dark slim eyebrows are furrowed as she too is lost in thoughts. The uneasiness on her face said it all when Tenten had asked to come along. Akio had already left for work a while ago, but it wasn't the first time Tenten had been left at home alone.

Tenten's intentions are clear. She might not fully understand all that is going on, but she wants to give her friend as much support she possibly could.

Toga sighs softly.

Her daughter's heart is big, she knew. Which is why she reluctantly agrees. But as they become closer to their destination, Toga can't help but feel her decision was a mistake.

Neji's mind is restless. So he diverts his thoughts to the girl beside him. Even if she doesn't voice her concerns, she doesn't mask her worries well. And he knew this because not only does he feel it, but he caught her nervous gaze through the rear view mirror numerous times.

She had grab onto his hand at some point, silently reassuring him that everything would be alright. Neji didn't pull away, nor does he squeeze her hand back.

He too wants to keep positive thoughts, but he doesn't know what to expect.

Over and over Neji prayed, that whatever he saw on the news had all been a nightmare. That, when he woke up, everyone would be nothing but perfect health. That this time would be different.

But the moment the car pulls onto the property and he catches glimpses of the shattered windows boarded up, dread washes over him and the hopeful idea is quickly shot down.

As they walked along the stone path towards the front doors, Neji took note of the eerie silence that washes over the compound. There is no movement. No signs of workers anywhere.

Toga rings the new doorbell a few times before stepping back.

When a few minutes passes, Toga steps back up to the door but stops at the sound of locks becoming undone. Genjiro face appears on the other side, a look of surprise is etched on his face before it morphs into one of worry.

Glancing over his shoulder, he hesitated before pulling the door open more, and steps outside.

"Genjiro.." Is all Toga could muster as she took in the sight of him.

Genjiro holds up a hand, silencing her worries. "I'm fine." He poorly assures them all. He moves closer and places a gentle hand on the small of Toga's back, pulling her aside.

Lavender eyes roams over the older man's form. His black jacket had been left behind. A wrinkled white buttoned up shirt, black slacks, and a pair of shiny black work shoes is what he wears. But aside from his lack of dress code, from the way disheveled hair sits upon his head, and the dark circles under his eyes tells Neji exactly how exhausted he's become.

Little scars that are left behind after the incident stood out against his pale complexion. And what's worse- his arm is supported in a sling.

"I asked you to keep him away..Just a little longer." His voice was soft. His tired gaze lands on the young boy briefly before meeting Toga's.

"We haven't heard from anyone in days!" Toga whispers harshly. "What was I suppose to tell him? Not to worry? We had no idea if..." She let her sentence die, letting it be clear where her thoughts were heading.

"It's not that simple," Genjiro starts.

Seeing the intense conversation between the two, Neji inches closer to the large double doors. Grabbing the golden handle, he pulls at the door. This, of course catches Genjiro's attention, but before he could utter a word, Neji treads inside slowly.

It was like he was reliving the same nightmare all over again. From where he stood, he could tell it gets much worse the deeper he goes. Lavender eyes darts from one destroyed item, to another.

As he takes everything in, panic soon overflows his senses and he is running as fast as he could up the stairs and down the halls. Genjiro's call for him bounces off the walls but Neji doesn't stop. He couldn't.

And just as predicted, the farther he went, the worse the sight becomes. His eyes darts to the smeared trail along the walls. It ends shortly, leading to a dried puddle in the far corner.

When his mind flashes with past memories, his foot catches the leg of the tipped over inn table and he barely catches himself.

Righting himself, Neji pushes on.

When he reaches Hanabi's bedroom, he stops in the doorway. One door has been ripped off it's hinges completely while holes and slice marks remains in the other.

As lavender eyes peers into the room, Neji staggers back at the sight of the familiar crimson liquid decorating the floor.

Glistening eyes are quick to appear. His feet carries him forward, following after the trail of blood until he is standing in the center of the tornado.

The hand that trembles, clutching the stuffed rabbit's ears tightly, stops. The plush toy drops to the floor. And his body follows suit.

Neji struggles to ease his racing heart, but the more he tries, the more rapid his breathing becomes.

It's a loud crash echoing through the long hall that brings him back.

He doesn't know what overcame him. His feet carries him out the trashed room and down the hall in a rush until he reaches another set of familiar double doors.

The offices doors are wide open. And Neji enters the room without a second thought.

A gasp escapes his lips as he took everything in. The room was a nightmare. Papers scatters the floor. Puddles of what reeks of alcohol decorates the floor in various locations of the room. From the lamp, picture frames, computers and everything that once sat on his desk now lays in pieces.

Neji gaze shifts to the man before him. As the slim figure rises to full height, Neji is able to get a good view of him.

His once perfectly combed hair pools messily over his shoulders. His dark blazer has been discarded. His crisp white buttoned down shirt is now wrinkled, stained and left open, exposing his tone chest while black slacks hung loosely on his hips. It's clear Hiashi isn't aware of his presence as he stumbles over to the cabinet located in the corner. His bare feet is covered in dirt from what Neji assumes is from the knocked over plant.

Pulling the wooden doors open, Hiashi shoves a hand inside, knocking many of the small glasses over. They crash against the wooden floor and around his feet but he is unfazed.

Pouring the amber liquid into the glass, Hiashi tips his head back and downs his drink. His eyes are squeezed shut as he releases a content sigh, enjoying the burning sensation that erupts in his throat.

"Master Neji! Please! Wait a minute!"

Hiashi's body tenses instantly, and his mouth forms a hard line. Turning upon the name, bloodshot eyes are now locked onto terrified ones.

In that moment does Hiashi's eyes grow colder. His lips curls in a snarl, revealing clenched teeth as his hands trembles. His grip around the glass tightens greatly.

Neji's body is paralyzed from the intense glare directed at him. And it takes everything in him to not cower in fear.

Neji's mouth trembles open yet no words pours out. He wants to retreat, but the glare pinned at him makes him stay put.

The sound of footsteps nearing should have brought relief to Neji even in the slightest but it doesn't.

Toga appears in the doorway then. Her eyebrows furrows as dark eyes slowly scanning the room. "What-"

Slowly, Toga enters the room. She stops beside Neji, a confused expression fixed on her face as her gaze hones on the empty glass in Hiashi's hand.

Chocolate locks with Lavender. "Hiashi-"

"Please!" Genjiro's pleads, reaching the door, along with Tenten. "Now's not a good time!"

Hiashi licks at his dried lips as intimidating eyes washes over the older man. "What..did I say..about visitors?"

"I..apologize, Sir." Genjiro casts his gaze away after a moment. "I'll see them out." Genjiro turns to Toga and places a hand upon her shoulder, silently pleading for her to heed his warning.

But Toga doesn't meet his gaze. Instead she takes a step forward- but that was enough to set Hiashi off. With a flick of his wrist, the glass is thrown over their heads, shards landing everywhere.

A terrified whimper escapes Tenten and she's quick to move behind Neji. Her small hands find his, and she pulls him back.

"Don't!" Hiashi warns. "Test my patience, Sabaru."

Toga pauses, and holds her hands up in defense. "I can't imagine what you're going through-" Toga tries. "But this..this isn't the answer! Your family-"

"What. Family?!" He laughs bitterly, stumbling over himself.

Ignoring the fallen silky strands hanging in his face, Hiashi turns his attention back to the alcohol within reach. He swipes up the neck of the bottle, and for a while he just stares at it.

When Hiashi takes a swig, he lets out a pleasant groan as his eyes rolls up to the high ceiling. His hand toys with the bottle for a bit, the sound of the liquid swishing is the only thing heard. It's then his gaze lowers to the floor and his voice drops to a sudden chill as he spoke in a whisper. "You got a lot of nerves barging into my home. Criticizing me."

"Hiashi.. That's not-"

"I lost my brother." Hiashi walks around the large desk, his thumbs hovers over the opening of the bottle and he tilts it, pouring the liquor on the desk and floor. "My wife.."

"What are you doing?"

"-Both of my daughters!" Coming back around, he stands a few feet away from her and splashes a large amount on her. "So don't tell me this isn't the answer!"

Soft chocolate eyes becomes heated as Toga's chest swells in anger. She wipes the alcohol from her face and spats, "You're drunk!" But even under her burning stare, his attention is no longer on her. Instead his thundering gaze flicks besides her and he raises a finger- directing it to Neji. "But you.." He wags his finger, and gives a dry laugh. "Out of everyone, how is it that you're still here? Alive- while they aren't? Huh?" Hiashi staggers forward and flicks the liquor onto Neji who flinches on contact. The bitter droplets rolls down his face and soaks through his shirt. "When I look at you, all I see is them. Dead!"

Toga moves instantly, shielding Neji before he got any closer. Tossing the bottle aside, Hiashi closes in on her and towers over her small form easily. Toga tilts her head upward, and meets his challenging gaze with her own.

No one moves. No one dares speaks or interferes in the intense stare down.

Hiashi's lips curls in disdain. Anger.

Never wavering, Hiashi digs in his pocket. He raises his hand, a lighter now in view and he is quick brings the flame to life.

Toga closes the space between them, their faces just inches apart. The challenge in her eyes still remains. She whispers. "Stop."

Cocking his head to the side, Hiashi shifts his gaze over her shoulder and back onto Neji who took a step back into Tenten's side.

"Hiashi." This time Geniro speaks, his eyes full of sorrow. "He's just a child. This isn't his fault.."

Ignoring his majordomo, Hiashi flicks his gaze back to Toga. Lidded eyes gives her body an unimpressed once over before meeting her heated glare again. The stench of alcohol hits her face as he hisses. "Get out of my sight. All of you." He turns away then and walks back to his desk.

Genjiro takes a step closer to Toga, pleading. "I'll retrieve Master Neji in a matter of days, just..please. It's not good for him to stay here right now.."

Shaking her head pitifully, Toga turns. Taking Neji's and Tenten's hand in her's, she leads them out the office and out the house.

.

.

Toga is silent as she straps them into the car, but the anger- the disappointment is written all over her face. Tenten and Neji watch as she closes the door shut before walking a few feet away to where Genjiro stood, a look of sorrow etched on his face.

Her words are muffled, but they could tell by her tone she is beyond livid. Her anger isn't towards him, but she couldn't help but express her true emotions to the older man who could only nod his head.

Toga storms away from the butler and without another word, she climbs into the car and starts the ignition.

Neji leans back into the seat as his eyes drifts over towards the mansion- his office window. It doesn't take long for his vision to blur with tears.

When Genjiro taking a hesitant step closer, it's enough to catch his gaze. Genjiro offer him a weak smile- a promise, that things would get better. It's all he could do.

Neji turns his head away and closes his eyes just as tears begin to roll down his face.

Angrily, Toga's hands grips the wheel as chocolate eyes watches the Hyuga through the mirror.

Toga shakes her head. This isn't right. She wants to comfort him- to wipe away his tears and just hold him. But the urge to get Neji away from this house- away from him, is stronger.

And that is exactly what she did.

Toga stomps on the gas pedal and speeds off the property.

.

.

When Toga's car pulls into the driveway, she turned off the ignition with a sigh. Closing her eyes, Toga leans forward and rests her forehead against the steering wheel.

Her face is now red with all her failed attempts to suppress her emotions, but it was hard to swallow the building anger her when behind her, the sound of both children occasionally sniffles rings in her ears.

Toga's eye twitched. This definitely wasn't how she thought things would end. She had expected the grief. The drinking. The yelling. But when Hiashi dare shifts the blame onto the ten year old child- she was seething.

Had both her daughter and childhood friends' son not been there, she was confident Hiashi wouldn't had been the only one to throw a few glasses around the room.

When heated chocolate eyes open, they stares ahead at her two-story home. This was a home she and Akio had build years ago. A place where they can always retreat after a long day. A place where they call their own. Where they will continue to raise their own.

A home is described as a place that is made up of rooms and walls like any other. A place that shelters and protects from the lurking danger outside. But a home is also a place in someones arms. Where hugs, laughter, and smiles is only accepted.

Love is raised in a home. Home is what builds family. And family is what you're suppose to live for. Defend for.

Just like Hiashi had claimed, Neji has none of this- not anymore.

She and Akio had been skeptical when When they received the invitation to attend Hinata's third birthday party. It had been the first in a while since Hiashi had reached out to them.

She couldn't say that after Chizuru's funeral was when things had taken a turn for the worse because it had been way before that. With the issue between the twins continuing to grow stronger, and their busy lives, they all grew estrange.

And to be honest, she had no clue when or if she'd ever see them again.

It's expected for Hizashi to be withdrawn after losing his wife as she too would react the same if the roles were reversed. They've lost a someone who meant the world to them. So it was only right to give him the needed space.

She just didn't expect to lost them both.

And all that is left to prove their existence- their love- is the young Hyuga that sits behind her.

Toga watch the two through the rear view mirror, her eyebrows furrowing in worry.

"Let's..let's go inside." Was all she could say.

Taking a deep breath, Toga steps out the car. She moves to open his side of the door but Neji had already climbed out. And the look he gave make her heart crumble.

Shaking her head, Toga doesn't waste a minute in gathering him in her arms and engulfs him in a strong embrace. Her hand weaves into his hair, massaging the nap of his neck and pushes his head into the crook of her's.

Startled, Neji's hands comes up but pauses in mid-air. Toga is speaking- begging for him to understand her soothing words. But the words she stresses in his ears doesn't reach him.

Neji throat starts to tighten. The look of fury that swim in Hiashi's narrowed eyes and the hatred behind his cutting words flashes in his mind.

Neji opens his mouth to let in a small, shaky breath. When his hands lands on her arms, he starts to pull and turn away from her. But Toga only clings on because pouring her warmth into him is all she could do. She needs him to know- understand that he is not alone.

The moment Neji's chest heaves, he knew couldn't hold it in anymore. His vision began to swim as tears wells before falling down his face.

He couldn't control it- Everything he's been holding in for months- years- has finally come forth, crashing like a tidal wave.

His nails digs into her shirt as he falls into her embrace.

Neji finally gives in.

.

.

Just ask promised, Genjiro arrives at the Sabaru's home a few days later.

The late afternoon rays pierce through the square windows and drawn curtains. A gentle breeze sweeps in, circling and cooling the warm room.

Standing at the foot of the bed, Neji takes his time collecting his belonging. After what he witnessed just days ago, he is no longer in a rush to return back to the estate like he once were.

From the few times he cross paths with Hiashi, there had been many sides he had witnessed. But that, wasn't expected.

He still has yet to fully learn- to fully understand all that took place but honestly, he no longer wants to. He knew whatever horrific thing his mind would conjure up, the truth would always be a thousand times worse.

When dark eyebrows furrows, his eyelids lowers as he casts his gaze to the side. He could feel unwanted eyes watching his every move- Her eyes.

For some reason, the fact that she is seeing him in this light- sad and broken- bothers him.

She didn't question what took place just a few days ago then, and she doesn't now.

Sitting at the window seat is Tenten. In her hands is the stuffed panda bear he gifted her nights ago. The sun casts a golden light on one side of her profile. Her pale skin bathes under the soft rays, giving that angelic sense.

Today her dark hair is not pinned in it's usual buns. Instead, rich wavy strands brush against her collarbones. Each strand dance freely along the breeze, softly reflecting the light of the sun.

Big chocolate eyes reflects a unique color of light and dark with a subtle green flecks that sparkled. They had the tendency of reflecting all her emotions at once. But when they gaze at him, it's not in judgement or anger. But in curiosity, comfort, and something he couldn't quite decipher.

She doesn't showcase her energetic, bubbly personality anymore. For days now, she is quiet. Close. Watchful- observing his every move and he doesn't know why.

Placing the stuffed panda bear down, Tenten stands and walks up behind him.

Lavender eyes rose from his bag slightly. He could feel her body heat before she is close enough to reach. And before he could even turn around, she wraps her arms over his shoulders and around his neck. Neji, having more height, forces her to stand on her toes and press against his back.

Catching himself from the sudden embrace, Neji's body stiffens as his mouth opens in a breathless gasp.

It was a simple gesture. But the heaviness in his stomach flutters at the warmth her body provides.

Lavender eyes stares straight ahead- into the body length mirror. He tries to search- understand her reasons through her eyes, but she tucks her face into his neck, making a shiver run down his back.

Still, she provides no words. But when her arms squeezes a fraction tighter, Neji's shoulders becomes lax, and he breathes slowly. More easily.

After a moment, Tenten slowly eases off him, but remains close. Strangely, he suddenly feels cold. But for some reason, Neji doesn't dare move.

After a while, does lavender eyes rise to stare at her chocolate eyes in the reflection. Her face is now tinted in a light rosy hue, and her eyes are wide, mixed with the same worry look and something else. But before he could decipher the look on her face, a call from Akio downstairs makes them turn towards the open bedroom door.

Without casting her another glance, Neji zips his bag close. Shouldering one strap over his shoulder, he turns and heads for the door.

Silently, Tenten follows after him out the room and into the hall.

It's when Tenten grabs onto his wrist, halting him does Neji meet her gaze again. Lavender eyes drops to their hands as the girl places something light in his palm.

"For luck." She says, closing his fingers around the item. She grips his hand reassuringly. "Keep it with you, always."

Without letting go of his hand, Tenten leads him towards the stairs.

When both children treads down the stairs, Toga, Akio, and Genjiro straightens up, their hushed voices ceasing.

Toga meets Neji half way and crouches down to his height. Gripping his shoulders, chocolate eyes swims with so much emotions as she spoke. "You are always welcomed here, Neji. You understand me?"

Neji faintly nods his head, shifting his gaze aside moments later. Without another word, Toga embraces him tightly, and presses her lips to his cheek. "I'll be there in a few days to check on you." She says as she stands, giving Genjiro a look.

Genjiro could only nod his head. "Yes. Of course."

Tenten moves from her spot at the foot of the steps and comes to stand beside her parents in the doorway. Together the Sabaru's watch as the two climbs into the waiting taxi.

As Genjiro gives the driver the address, Neji pivots his gaze towards the house, a look of longing etching on his face.

The taxi pulls off into the street.

.

.

Thanking the driver, Genjiro is generous as he pays the man a hefty tip before stepping out of the car.

Genjiro moves around the car to open Neji's side of the door. After a few moments, Neji grabs his bag beside him and hops out of the cab.

Watching as the car drives off the property, Genjiro turns to the quiet child. From the time he left the mansion to now, his mind had been restless. Struggling to come up with something- anything, to explain the last few days but there are no words- no excuses he could think of sprouting to the child.

A long, tired sigh escapes pass through his aged lips. "Hiashi..has been through a lot. You both have.." Genjiro starts, pausing as he thinks over his words. "I just need you to know, despite Hiashi's words, this not your fault, Neji. Hiashi, he's.. not in his right mind set.."

Neji doesn't say anything. Genjiro doesn't expect him to.

Neji doesn't look at him, choosing to keep his gaze on the large mansion before them.

Coming to stand beside him, Genjiro places his free hand on top of his head as he too took in the sight. He lets his fingers run through loose silky strands before he begins walking.

Genjiro pauses from the lack of footsteps behind him and turns to see Neji in the same spot with his chin tuck to his chest. His voice is low and wavers as he spoke. "What if it happens again?"

Genjiro's mouth drops open, and he sputters a response. "I-It won't-"

"You don't know that!" Neji says, keeping his gaze down to the ground.

For a moment, Genjiro remains there rooted in place at a loss for words, but the moment Neji's shoulders heaves and his lips trembles, Genjiro finds himself kneeling down in front of the child.

Genjiro pulls him forward and embraces him, but Neji is fighting against him. It only encourages the butler to hold on tighter, his own pain resurfacing. "I won't let anything happen to you, Neji." He whispers.

After those words leaves Genjiro's mouth, does Neji finally gives in, leaning into his support completely. His body trembles hard as fat tears soaks through the older mans white shirt.

Genjiro's hand makes it's way to his head and buried it deep in dark brown hair once more. Words were just words, he knew. No matter how much feeling put behind them, it still wouldn't be enough to heal. Nonetheless, he tries. He whispers calming words into the young Hyuga's ear until his trembling calms.

Genjiro pulls away just enough and his hand latches on Neji's chin, lifting his face. His thumbs wipes away the streak of tears before brushing away the fallen strands. "Let's go inside, hm? You must be tired."

Lavender eyes leaves the older man to gaze behind him at the mansion, and just like that, the fear seeps back in. Neji begins to shake his head, wide lavender eyes fearful. He took a deep breath. Then another. And another. "I-I can't- I-"

Genjiro hand catches his hand. "You can." Genjiro stresses. "No one your age, or anyone for that matter should ever go through what you've been through. But despite everything that has happened, you survived, Neji." Genjiro's head dips low, searching for his next words. "I know this isn't what you want to hear, and I'm probably the last person you'd want to talk to but you need to understand that I don't want you to just survive- I need you to live."

Neji eyes shifts to his, and after what seem like hours does he nod his head numbly. But that was all Genjiro needed. Pulling him into one last hug, Genjiro stands to his feet.

Neji trails after him towards the large estate, keeping his gaze on the stone path.

"Master Hiashi will come around." Genjiro mutters more to himself, silently praying what he spoke is the truth.

Genjiro fishes in his pocket for the keys and unlocks the doors. He hold it open and watches as Neji takes a tentative step inside, lavender eyes roaming around before he moves fully into the foyer.

Everything was still turned upside down, though it looked much cleaner than had before.

As if reading his mind, Genjiro nods his head, silently agreeing with the young Hyuga. Serious work still needs to be done, but for right now, the only thing that matters is the child beside him.

Genjiro nods his head towards the stairs. "Let's get you settled in."

Neji gives a faint nod. And together they trudge up the stairs.

.

.

As small fingers run and tug at the stuffed rabbits fur, Neji is still on the large bed. He leans back against the cool headboard as lavender eyes stares straight ahead at the white wall.

Just hours ago he was brought back into the comfort his bedroom, but the sense of protection he once felt is nonexistent.

The metallic scent that tainted the air is now mask with a strong lemony scent of cleansing products and freshly picked flowers that's been placed throughout the large house.

His breathing is controlled for the time being, but it means nothing as his tainted mind continues to race.

In his features, he doesn't show the fear- the panic that is just about to bubble over. But the longer silence continues to be in his company, the sooner it is to make an appearance.

Neji didn't voice his feelings or concern again, but his gaze said it all. Leaving the older man no choice, Genjiro caves in. He chose not to go into detail, not wanting to frighten him even further. But Neji could read between the lines just fine.

More lives had been taken that night. And the lives that had been spared, left the first chance they got and never turned back. -That explains why the house still remains a mess. But what it doesn't explain is why Genjiro himself chooses to remain here.

Like himself, Genjiro is a survivor. But unlike him, he actually has a choice to walk away from all of this. No sane person would try their life a third time, so why? Why stay?

A sudden knock at the door pulls Neji out of his wandering thoughts and his body automatically tenses until he caught sight of Genjiro.

The older man flashes him a apologetic smile as he enters the room.

Neji watch as the older man close the door behind him and makes his way over. In his hands is a small box that he places on the nightstand before taking a seat at the edge of the bed.

For a while no one spoke, but when the silence soon became too much, Genjiro's turns his body to face the small Hyuga. "Neji," He begins, but stops. Charcoal eyes lowers to the hand that picked at the stuffed rabbit more roughly now.

In quiet moments, trauma is able to sink it's teeth into anything it could. Turning you into something unrecognizable. And the longer Genjiro stares, the more he can see the drastic change.

Where there was love, light, and laughter is now an aching hollowness that grew more profound each day. But as the years went by, Neji finally found a reason to keep going- to keep living. And soon those darken days began to clear into something peaceful. He became calm. He laughed. He played. He was happy.

But this time is different.

The fire that swirled within him- The hope he had been clinging onto- The warmth that is him, has been snuffed out.

Neji has always been a quiet child. A giver. A lover. But now he bathes in an unsettling silence. His eyes that were once pure, is void of any emotion as he sits with an untroubled face.

For someone so young- so innocent to be exposed to the cruelty in the world, there's no telling how one is suppose to heal. But he'd be damned if he didn't at least try.

When Genjiro's hand reaches for his, halting his movements does he gain Neji's attention once more.

Genjiro gives a small squeeze in comfort. "It's not good to forget them." He says as he reaches for the box. Placing the box into Neji's lap, Genjiro motions for him to open it.

Pushing the rabbit aside, Neji pulls back the flaps and peers inside. The smell of old photos is not the only thing that greets him, but two painstakingly familiar faces that hasn't cross his mind in a while, does.

A look of confusion cross Neji's face as he reach inside and pulls out the first photo that caught his gaze.

Lavender eyes takes their time wandering over her face. This time, her hair is in loose waves that trickles down pass and over her shoulders like a waterfall. She graces the world in the most beautiful off the shoulder pristine gown that flows and fans out, concealing her feet. With her arms over lapping the ones around her, her face is turned but even then he could see the light and love in his mother's eyes as she flashes a toothy grin at his father.

With his hair is pulled back and tied in it's usual ponytail, he wears the standard white and black suit that fits snug against his tall, slim frame. His arms are secured around his newly wife waist- almost as if he was secretly afraid to let her go. A large smile graces his father's face as he stares back at her with equal passion.

Their faces holds no worries. Just the promise of happiness as they pose for the photo, capturing probably one of their best moments.

Slowly Neji tears his gaze away from the image and towards the older man in question. But instead of answering his silent question, Genjiro reaches insides his shirt pocket and pulls out two smaller photos and hands them over.

Neji takes them and instantly he recognize the two.

The first image is of Hinata. It was taken on the night of her third birthday, Neji realizes. Unlike the picture that once hung in the hall, where she sits stiff and her head is tilted upward in a false sense of confidence, this images shows the opposite.

Her cheeks gives real color, and her light eyes shines brighter than he's ever seen. With her hands clasped in front of her, she stands in the arch doorway of the ballroom. A genuine smile that actually reaches her wide tinted eyes is what stares into the camera.

So bashful and quiet is what makes Hinata who she is. She isn't quick to open herself to others, but once trust is earned, she is ready to give you nothing but her heart of gold.

The next image is of Hanabi. She took her place upon a swing set within the garden. She is dressed in a yellow floral shirt and matching skirt, showcasing the decorative band-aid place just on her knee. This had been taken sometime last spring, after the scare she gave them, Neji remembers.

Neji had to smile at that. Hanabi isn't afraid to let her adventurous nature be known to the world.

The cherry blossoms had grown so much, only patches of sunlight hits her small figure. But it was enough to capture her in a light that makes this image unforgettable. With one eye closed, she pairs a cheeky grin with a peace sign at the camera.

The love and child-like spirit in their identical eyes said it all.

There is no pain. No terror. Only pure innocence.

"Once you learn to accept what is, only then will you begin to heal." Rising to his feet, Genjiro moves the box of photos aside and grabs the comforter.

Grabbing the stuffed rabbit, Neji crawls under the covers, and allows Genjiro to tuck him in.

Just as he reaches over for the lamp, the sound of Neji's small gasps stops him. Genjiro reaches over to run a hand through his hair. "My apologies. Do get some rest, Master Neji."

Retracting his hand, Genjiro turns on his heel and heads for the door. Genjiro casts him a final smile as he pulls the door open, but before he exits, Neji's voice calls out to him.

"What happen to them, Genjiro?"

Hesitantly, Genjiro remains still, his gaze locking on the hallway wall as he struggles to answer.

After what seems like forever, he turns to the sadden child.

"I'm..not sure myself, Master Neji."

And with that he took his leave, closing the door behind him.


Rising to his feet, Neji moves towards the short list of names. Raising a hand, heavy eyelids falls shut as he presses two fingers to his lips before pressing them to the cold stone. The pads of his fingers chills instantly. A long sigh escapes him in a puff of smoke as he gives a final prayer. "I love you Today. Tomorrow. Always."

Looking over each name for the last time, he leans over and blows out the nearest candle.

The minute he steps outside, cold wind whips around him violently, tousling his hair about him and ridding the teardrop that clung to long eyelashes.

Stuffing his hands deep in his pockets, Neji cranks his head back towards the night sky. No longer were there cries of mourning or silence to keep him company. Just the whispers of dead leaves that scatters about the earthy ground and a single luminous star that made an appearance tonight.

It was then he felt a quick vibration before it dies just as quick. Fishing in his pocket, he pulls out his phone and his gaze hones on the dozen missed calls and a handful of messages. None from him. All from her.

The longer his gaze lingers on her name, the more he felt the need to hit the green button and hear her voice. To reassure everything is fine. But he doesn't.

Worry is the last thing he wishes anyone to feel when it came to him. But the urge to speak- to open himself up again, is nonexistent.

Neji continues to stare at the bright screen for a moment longer before the crisp air blows colder, penetrating through his coat and meeting his skin in a icy hug.

Trembling, he pulls his scarf tighter around his face and buries his phone back into his pocket, along with his hands.

Neji makes his way down the dirt path and towards the gates.


Neji's pace quickens as soon as the mansion comes into view.

For as long as he's lived at the estate, it's been a challenge to adjust to everything thrown at him. But as the years went on, somehow he learned to accept how things were. And for a while, he was okay with it.

But what he wasn't okay with is that the more he thought of those nights, the more things just didn't add up.

It's no secret of his and Hiashi's strain relationship. To this day, the wealthy businessman continues to keep his distance. Continues to keep him in the dark. But no more.

It stops today.

Now. He want answers.

Cold hands grips on the golden handles, and the moment he yanks the front door open, the anger boiling within diminishes and forms into confusion. Lavender eyes lands on the two figures he wasn't expecting.

Neji's gaze first lands on Genjiro. The older man had halted in pacing, the same worried lines on his distressed face from earlier, still remains.

Neji's gaze flicks to her next. They both hold the same expression on their faces. He couldn't shake the oncoming guilt, nor could he tear his gaze away from her.

Chinese-styled buns and bangs that had grown, nearly concealing her worried luminous eyes are wind kissed. A few strands had fallen out of place and is now framing her face.

A dark burgundy scarf sits around her neck securely to ward off the crisp air. She wears a thin brown coat that hugs around her form, all buttoned up.

One hand is bare, holding the cell phone that she's misplaced just days ago to her ear. It was then he noticed the faint vibration in his pocket.

Lavender remains on her, watching as her hand drops to her side at the sight of him. Worry. Anger. Relief- That's what's left to swirls in her eyes after the initial shock wears off. Her body twists around fully in his direction, and her feet begins to moves. Her walk turns into a light run until her body collides with his.

Neji stumbles back, his arms coming around to steady her in reflex the second strong arms wraps around his neck tightly.

Her face is warm against his cold skin and he couldn't fight his eyes from closing against the warmth.

"Idiot.." He hears the tremble in her soft voice as she buries her face into his neck, holding him tighter.

Tenten pulls back moments later, a small frown sits upon her face as she spoke. "Don't scare me like that."

Standing so close, he's able to watch the light reflect in her warm eyes, making them appear lighter and more heavenly.

Without realizing it, his hands slides down to rest on her sides. "Sorry.." He finds himself saying, just loud enough for her.

The worry look on her face melts as she sighs in relief and graces him with a small smile- Though a short lived one. Her gaze leaves his to trail a little lower.

Neji stands immobile when her palms cups his face, caresses his cold smooth skin as her thumbs rubs at the evidence of dried tears. The action doesn't take him by surprise as she's done this before.

It's moments like these that he hates most. The way she is able to provide the warmth his body craves with just one touch. It makes him want to cave in each time. The fire in her spirit and light in her dark eyes that bores into his through thick lashes makes his lips curl in a semblance of a smile. The effect is soft, and all the more inviting. His troubling thoughts are clouded by her, making it all the more harder to obscure himself from her.

And he would gladly submit to her persuasive touch- welcoming the warmth only she could provide if the heaviness in his chest wasn't more demanding.

Taking a hold of her wrists gently, Neji pulls away and cold lavender eyes flicks to the older man. His voice is a chilling low. "Where is he?"

Genjiro lip hangs for a moment, before adverting his gaze to the white cloth in his hands. After a moment, he reluctantly answers. "He..should be in his bedroom."

Watching as the teen pulls away and heads for the stairs, the pained expression on the older man face grows as he took a step forward. "Master Neji I don't think-"

But his words are ignored as Neji moves pass him. Cold hands grips the railing and he sprints up the stairs quickly and disappears down the hall.

"Neji-" Tenten starts before whirling around on Genjiro. "What's going on?"

"It's not my place to say.." Genjiro shifts his gaze to meet her confused stare and nods his head in the direction Neji took off. "Make sure he's okay."


When the double doors comes into view, Neji doesn't waste a second. Grabbing each handle, he yanks the double doors open without a second thought. "Hiashi. I need to speak-"

In that instant, the fuse lit within him diminishes quickly at the sight of a curvy bare back and hips in motion. It's then the pungent scent of sweat and arousal washes over him, making his mind go completely blank.

With heated, rosy cheeks, dark violet eyes snaps over her shoulder, and panic shoots through her.

"Oh my god!"

"-What the hell?!"

Neji stands frozen. Lavender eyes bounces from the purple haired woman who scurries off her place on top of him and grabs a handful of the satin sheets to shield herself to Hiashi, who now comes into view.

When confusion leaves him, Hiashi supports himself on his forearm and pushes long, silky strands away from his dampen face. Sighing heavily through his nose, he cocks his head at the stun teen, his annoyance reaching his piercing gaze. "Neji.." He says, his voice cutting deep. "Is there something I can do for you?"

Something sparks within him and for a moment, Neji nearly looses himself. With his fingers twitching violently before clenching into tight fists at his side, lavender eyes glares with such intensity- rivaling Hiashi's identical ones.

He is high off his thundering emotions as his form grows tense- exuding an animosity that is burning- coming to life. He doesn't want to come down from it. And it scares him.

Slowly Hiashi rolls himself into a sitting position, the thick blankets pools in his lap as his form looms over intimidatingly.

For a long time, the heated look in Neji's eyes stirs a familiar feeling within him.

Hiashi couldn't explain where or when the sudden hate towards his nephew came to be. Nor does he care to remember. All he knows is the power he possesses over the young Hyuga does nothing but make his body tremble in pleasure.

He never wants to let this feeling go.

He doesn't plan to.

"Leave." The heat in his voice and the curl of his lips causes the women beside him to tense. Manicured fingers grips the blanket even tighter around her person as she stares between two.

"Now." Hiashi dares him to step out of line. Dares him to challenge him.

And Neji almost did.

He is itching to rid the bubbling sensation- but he falters.

Swallowing all of his anger and hate, Neji clamps his mouth shut, and backs out into the doorway.

The cocky tilt of his head and the ever growing smirk on Hiashi's face burns in his mind. And it takes every ounce of strength in him to not fall to his level.

Without another word or glance, Neji reaches for the handles, and slams the doors behind him.


Tenten's quick pace turns into a light sprint as she hurries to catch up to him. But after a few minutes of continuous searching, she must've made a wrong turn, she realizes.

Tenten stops in place, her hand coming up to rub her forehead in an attempt to stay calm. When Genjiro reminded her of the anniversary, guilt struck hard.

Why didn't he wait for her? Or better yet- how could she let something so important slip her mind?

"Damn it." She huffs, annoyance seeping in her voice. "Did Hiashi change his bedroom too?"

When she takes in her surroundings, Tenten find herself standing in a familiar hall, past memories flooding her mind and filling her deeply. And before she could stop herself, she continues down the path until she reaches the tall white door.

Without a thought, her hand reaches for the doorknob and pushes it open and there she is met with cold air that chills her face, and a bare room.

The room had been stripped and cleared out- the only thing left was the large curtains. They dance along the wind as the crisp air blew. Even with her coat still on, the chill seeps through every layer to met her skin.

Wrapping her arms around herself, Tenten enters the room and head towards the window.

She placed a gloved hand on the glass, she takes in the view below her. She watches as the trees and bushes in the large garden sway restlessly against the roaring winds.

For years she's known the truth between the two. And in that time, the light- the love in his eyes had been replaced with abandonment, hatred, and sadness. And each passing day, she continues to witness as those feelings only grows stronger. Honestly, what does Hiashi hope to do by changing his location in the house? And why now of all time? Tenten angrily thinks.

The urge to storm into his office and question him- give the older man a piece of her mind rages strong, but she couldn't and she knew it.

It wasn't her place to.

All she could really do is be there for Neji. Give him all the support she could to help ease his mind in any way.

Shaking her head, Tenten sighs softly. Placing her other hand on the large window, she gives a firm push and seals it shut. The large curtains falling lifeless around her.

Turning away, she moves towards the door but pauses, her small hand grips the doorknob. Giving one last look, chocolate eyes glances around, trying to picture how things once were. To know that this is no longer his room is hard to digest, and knowing that there was little to nothing she could do, broke her even more.

Quietly, she closes the door behind her, a sad sigh escaping her as she listens to the final click.

Brown eyes gaze down the hall for a moment, before curiosity sets in. Before she could stop herself, her feet carries her down the long corridor. When the double white doors comes into view, her pace slows as a chill runs down her spine. The thought of coming back here hasn't cross her mind until just a few days ago when she saw the missing poster.

It was just something about knowing the history of the mansion that made her want to run far away but, here she is. Standing in front of the bedroom of his second daughter.

Hanabi's room.

The thought of Hiashi cleaning out her room as well didn't sit well with her. She couldn't even begin to imagine everything they've been through, but to fully erase everything that happen- to erase them- it's just unthinkable.

Her teeth latches onto her bottom lip out of habit, and her hand reaches for the doorknob hesitantly.

"What are you doing?"

A startled gasp escapes Tenten as her hand retreats quickly to her chest. After a moment, wide chocolate eyes calms, easily recognizing the short haired maid from yesterday.

Tenten gave an apologetic smile. "S-Sorry, I was just-"

"You're not allowed in there."

Tenten blinks, her smile dropping completely as she takes notice of the sudden attitude.

Dark violet eyes squints, almost daringly as hands moves to redo the buttons on her uniform. Clearing her throat, she holds her head high, an air of authority and confidence radiating off her. "Please leave the premises now."

Tenten's mouth drops open in defense but closes it a second after, nodding. "Right." Never tearing her gaze away, Tenten eyed the short maid questionable as she moves to walk past.

The maid moves quick- colliding their shoulders, hard. Stumbling back, Tenten scoffs as she grabs her throbbing shoulder. Brown eyes quickly heats at the side-eye glare thrown at her.

The maid turns around to face her with a haughty look. With a wave of her hand, she motions for Tenten to walk.


With his hands balled into tight fists upon his lap, Lee sits uncharacteristically still, the only thing that moves is his charcoal gaze as it lands from one thing to another.

When he imagined his next visit to the Hyuga estate- this, wasn't what he expected.

With Tenten gone to search for their friend, he had agreed to stay back and wait just in case. But as minutes continues to pass by, did he realize how nerve wracking it is.

It was a year or so ago when he finally learned the truth. The many blanks and burning questions in his mind had been answered after so long. Though surprisingly, it wasn't Neji who shared the information with him.

He is grateful. To finally be apart of something much bigger- to be trusted. It means a lot. But it were times like these he wishes he had stayed in the dark.

His curious nature is a curse, he realize. Had he not know, his mind would be at peace. He would be his usual self- Bearing a smile and doing his best to lessen any tense atmosphere like he normally would. Not sit here, waiting and feeling utterly useless.

He doesn't have an inkling of what he could do to ease whatever pain his friend is feeling. And it sucks.

Lee's head snaps around at the sound of the door opening and slamming closed, and he is quick on his feet at the sight of Neji. His mouth opens but no words comes forth. All he could do is stand there and watch him- the look in his face- his eyes. It's been days since he last saw Neji, and the guilt soars through him.

Neji pauses, his gaze meeting Lee's only briefly. His face is neutral- emotionless, just like any other day, though the emotion in his eyes and dried streak tears told him differently.

Neji tore his gaze away then, and Lee watches as he moves further inside. Shrugging off his jackets and scarf, he drapes them across the many chairs that littered the large space before crossing the room to his dresser.

Lee jaw tightens and he looks away. He wants to say something. Anything. But his mind is blank.

"Neji-" When he looks up, the bathroom door closes, leaving him alone in the large room once again. When the faint sound of the shower running reaches his ears, Lee releases a sigh as he slumps back down in his seat.

It wasn't long when Neji emerges from the bathroom, now changed in light sleepwear. "Neji.." Lee utters as the teen walks past him to his bed.

Lee watch as he pulls the thick blanket back and over his form before turning to face the other way.

Lee turns his head away and glance towards the double doors. The thought of quietly taking his leave sounds like the perfect idea, but he knew he couldn't without giving an attempt to help the situation.

Thinking long and hard, the only answer that came to mind is the twin-bun girl. Lee gives a confident nod. She had known everything longer than him, so she must know something that could calm their friend.

"Is there..anything I could do?" Lee ask eagerly, taking a bold step forward. "I could go get-"

"Turn out the lights on your way out." Lee's shoulder drops at the response. Nonetheless, Lee nods.

"Yeah. Sure." Grabbing his bag, he moves towards the door. Hitting the light switch, Lee pulls the door open and gave a final glance over his shoulder. "Goodnight, Neji.."


Would you believe me if I told you there is suppose to be more to this chapter? I decided to split this into two parts because it was just too long.

Over a year. I know. I do apologize. Hear me out?

1. My grandmother had been very ill and it was hard on my family, due to that and past family issues. She is okay now thank god.

2. For the past few months I haven't been feeling well. My health had affected my personal life. I took the spring semester off to focus more on myself as well as my health. I'm getting much better, and I will continue this story. I personally want to see this story through. There's not a day that goes by where I don't think of you guys and this story, so I do apologize and hope you still are interested.

3. There had been two death my family had to deal with. Last year and just recently. I won't get into that but you can understand I just wasn't in the right state of mind.

Again, I hope you'll forgive me and stick around.