Well it has been a year since I have updated. I'm pathetic I know sorry for taking so long. Well here it is chapter 11 this time though definitely! I will
update soon. Since it's summer I should be able to have time to update.
Anyway the setting for this chapter is...
1 month for the second part of the exams.
Please enjoy.
Disclaimer: I do not own the show Naruto or any of these characters. If I did why would I be writing fanfictions. ^.^
Hinata ignored the nagging feeling in her heart that maybe she was becoming nothing more to Gaara than a toy.
I'm stupid. He's told me so many times that I was his only one; she thought with a smile. She glanced up across the long line they stood in looking up at the coughing proctor in front of her.
Gaara and Kankuro stood on either side of her, as she looked up above her, apprehension taking over. The days it took for them to survive were long and hard but despite all of that she had finally made it to the third part of the exam. She was excited for sure that she might be able to compete successfully.
She glanced around her hearing the congratulations as she looked ahead of her at the sensei's conversing with one another.
Neji turned his head glancing across the stage. Weaklings all of them. Except for that one he thought as his eyes caught the bird hair of Sasuke Uchiha the last living relative of their brother clan. Sasuke must of known the loneliness that he himself did and for a moment Neji felt pity for someone other than himself.
He glanced past him to eye Hinata standing nervously beside Gaara twiddling her thumbs.
'So she made it through the exam. Not that I care.' He thought stubbornly as he turned away glad she didn't notice him.
He didn't need her smiles of pity and glances of wanting for friendship. Why would he? She was nothing more than a weakling and a shame to their clan.
I will prove who truly deserves to be the head of the clan and I'll wipe the floor with you Hinata. He scowled at the group ignoring the pointed looks TenTen gave him. He wanted no one by his side. He intended to fight for a person far away someone he could never see again. He needed to fight for a memory that's all it seemed he was striving for.
Hinata is at fault. If it wasn't for her this never would have happened... if it wasn't for her weakness my father would still be alive. He mused angrily. At that moment he wanted nothing more than to tear Hinata apart piece by piece to destroy everything she had slowly and painfully. He wanted to terrorize her heart.
If only I could have the chance. He thought bitterly. His heart was stirring with the painful memories of his father. It had been around this time when he had in fact died. He almost was sure Hinata didn t even care.
He turned his head away his angry thoughts simmering inside him taking root even deeper in his heart.
Hinata's thumbs kept up their nervous twiddling as she watched the matches rush by like lightning. Every second that the names shuffled her heart raced expectantly. The kanji's mixed with the sweat developing on her brow as match after match took place.
Gaara stared rather uncaringly at Hinata's demeanor wondering if there was even a way to save her from a fate that was surely to come. He saw Neji's spiteful eyes and there was no inkling in his heart that Hinata would be spared from his violent actions. The powerlessness of the situation filled his core with an unfamiliar nervousness that threatened to show on his hardened features. He was the person who could protect her yet now as he felt her hand shaking laced within his own he hated the impossible helplessness that was soon to come.
As her feet hit the floor her eyes reflected the future in the kanji of her name. That name Hyuuga seemed to have done so much to her and now it seemed it was sending her to her death. She felt Gaara's hand clutch tighter but she let it go not turning back to look at him with a smile of deception. She knew what was ahead. She wasn't stronger than Neji, it was a fact, however that would certainly not stop her from acheiving her goal as chunnin.
Neji smirked with a look of self satisfaction as he met Hinata on the dancefloor. The echo in footsteps alone had already begun to take its toll on the quivering heiress.
'Now surely there is nothing and no one who can stand in my way.' that thought slipped through the minds of the two.
"So the rules are simple. If you are knocked out of the ring or you knock out the other opponent you are the victor. The same rules apply that you originally agreed to when entering this exam. Let the battle begin." and with those words the procter was gone to the sidelines leaving the two face to face.
And then silence. Two eyes met each other one pair steadfast another shaking in despair. Even the crowd couldn't make a sound at the almost unbelievable gesture of Hinata Hyuuga.
A hand opened and extended out in front of her a trembling yet somehow forcibly steady hand.
"Neji-niisan. it's time for us to finally begin to face each other directly." her hand was extended in a gesture that was kind and longing for a sense of peace and forgiveness. However Neji only saw the disgusting pity that was sent his way ever since his father's death.
Gaara's eyes widened at her gesture he should have known she wouldn't be able to leave her cousin alone.
In a moment Neji charged her without a reply and struck her arm with one finger causing her to wince in pain and draw it down quickly. Neji quickly retreated backwards from her a smirk on his face.
"These years I've been training haven't been just to defeat you but to wipe that sickeningly pitiful hope from every fiber of your being. Soon the pain will be all that's left of you Hinata-sama."
"Neji-niisan-" Hinata couldn't speak another word as her feet were swept from underneath her and her chin was dangling inches from the floor. The sting of her ankles was apparent along with the jabbing pinpricks from the tight grip her cousin had on her short hair holding her up from the impact. Her breath came out faster as his caressed her ear uncomfortably.
"You know what I want Hinata. I want you to suffer. I want the very thought of me to make you writhe in pain. Tell me can you even fight back without your precious shields."
Hinata winced her eyes closed tightly at the words but didn't reply she couldn't understand why Neji was so unable to forgive her. Was it loneliness? What had she personally done to deserve her cruel treatment? That thought made her infuriated and gave her strength.
"You are not the victim Neji. I maybe of the heir to the main branch, but I don't stand for what happened to you. Nevertheless I'm not so cowardly and that I would scapegoat my very cousin. I was born with my fate the same as you. I won't let you take away myself." at those words Hinata flung her open palm filled with chakra backwards into his stomach. Her eyes watched in morbid fascination as he coughed up blood from the intense hit and his grip loosened.
She righted her foot swinging around out of his reach before standing at a distance from him. She hated being a close range fighter. She hated the Hyuuga clan. She hated Suna. But she knew in the end no amount of Neji's blame would change the fact that she was a part of all those things and had to accept the piece of herself that loved them.
"You paint everything so empty Neji. Maybe I can show you the fullness of the clouds someday when your mind is no longer wedged shut." the tone of anger was apparent as she shook her hair free. Then it came. The pain she knew was on it's way shot up her ankles. Her eyes widened as her knees buckled and the smirk across Neji's lips grew wider.
"Do you enjoy that. I'm sure that technique is one you can't seem to master but even you must know how to close chakra points. Soon you won't be able to even walk...however I won't wait that long." he charged at that moment and Hinata quickly pushed herself up from the ground ignoring the intense pain as she blocked his attack sending one of her own chakra filled palms to him. Their palms danced for mere moments it seemed the both filled with anger at the other only looking for an opening to weaken their opponent. Suddenly two strikes. One for each. Neji struck her elbow hard while she had hit his side. A mere touch was all it took but the gentle fist attack required nothing more.
"You should not continue this Hinata-sama. It's hopeless for you now. You can barely stand." he whispered in her ear inches from it.
"I won't quit. That's not something I can afford to do."
"You are pathetic. You only wish to please your father or your precious Gaara."
"No. This is for the me that wants to protect them." she heard his scoff and jumped backwards away before crying out in pain from the sudden pressure on her ankles as she landed.
Her mind shook and heart clenched as she watched Neji's eyes.
"You can not continue. Give up. Or I will kill you."
"I know but maybe this is how I'll have to die at the hands of one of the people that I love." his retort was his sudden fist hitting the side of her face knocking her far into the floor of stadium. Her cries weren't unheard and everyone was staring at her some looks of pity others with murderous intentions. But everyone understood that the both of them carried the blame. She spat out her blood on the ground her eyes quickly righted in front of her.
She sat up on her knees and cloned herself quickly using her clones to run at him full speed. 'I can't lose this is my chance.' she thought her fist unclenched as she let the pain be her motivation. She thrusted it forward towards his chest and her eyes widened in surprise. She had the opening! He had left himself open to her attack. With all her energy and strength she pushed her hand forward launching it at him. Her fingers grazed his chest then all she felt was air.
To her surprise Neji had suddenly done a 360 degree spin and she was left to fall forward her only thought was that death had arrived. She was open and helpless, he would kill her, but Hinata didn't count on the fact that her brush of a hit had slightly damaged Neji's left lung. He leaned to catch his breath that was stolen from him and in that moment Hinata's face slammed headfirst into the floor.
Outside the ring.
The bell rang. The proctor spoke. The words. Winner: Neji Hyuuga.
'I can't move.' Hinata thought. She couldn't move could hardly breathe from the unexpected slam into the stone hard floor. Her eyes watered in defeat and pain from the sharp hit to her nose. Shamefully she rolled up her fingers into a fist pushing herself up shakily so her face was no longer in the ground. She heard the laughter. She felt his gaze on her. Was he ashamed of her. She hadn't even bothered to look his way during the fight. She couldn't now and she couldn't reach or bear to wipe the sweat from her brow.
Gaara couldn't seem to look upon the sight. He knew what the outcome would be he had known before but he had hope a slimmer one that she would win.
'Please don't let anyone think that of me. They aren't tears.' but she heard the snickers. She desperately tried to make it to her feet but fell back down on her knees. The medics rushed over and out of the corner of her eye she saw him coming towards her and she quickly turned away. She couldn't see him now of all times. Suddenly another appeared in front of her his lamentful smile bright as always. It somehow comforted Hinata despite her pain.
"Naruto." her eyes trailed down unable to keep his gaze. She knew Gaara was watching her knowing all along she wasn't ready. She had failed him and failed herself. She laughed a tiny painful sound of disheartening despair.
"I've shown such an unsightly scene in front of the person I admire." she said her voice shaking from the attempt at a cheerful smile.
"You are strong. That's all I wanted to say to you. No one deserves to be treated as if they don't matter." Naruto said with darkened eyes.
Hinata couldn't answer. If only Gaara felt that she was strong everything he said to her to uplift her seemed to be a lie. Gaara couldn't tell the truth. She stumbled to lay on the stretcher as her eyes wondered for a moment. She only wanted a glimpse at him but his back was to her as he disintegrated into sand reappearing in the stands beside Kankuro. His eyes were on the stage but he didn't seem upset. He seemed nonchalant uncaring as his eyes turned away. She didn't know how to feel.
"Thank you Naruto-kun. Can I ask you something?" she said her eyes quivering a bit the pain was starting to go full force as she laid on the uncomfortable cloth.
"Please watch over Gaara. Don't let him lose control."
Naruto's eyes went wide at that. How was he supposed to control that deranged emotional freak? He was seething inside that Gaara wasn't beside Hinata. If he liked and cared about her so much then why wasn't he near her now. All those jealous thoughts passed away as he watched her eyes cloud over in pain.
"I will Hinata. I don't know what I can do but-"
"I believe in you Naruto. I believe that you can do anything you put your mind to. You aren't binded by anything or anyone so you can fly freely. So please do this. I ask it of you selfishly." she said her voice low and quiet but a whisper. Naruto had hopes and dreams but she knew he didn't have anyone to share them with maybe this was something her defeat could do. Motivate him to make his own future.
"I will do everything in my power for you." he spoke his voice serious. She nodded in reply and was carried off. He watched her go in silence before he turned his eyes filled with rage towards Neji who still stood on the tournament floor watching his cousin be carried out.
"HEY YOU!!!!" Naruto yelled angrily pointing his finger accusingly at Neji.
"It's not nice to fight to mistreat your cousin!!" he yelled angrily. Neji smirked uncaring as he stared down Naruto a look of indifference in his eyes.
"I supposed she's captured you also. Hinata-sama's deception skills are exceptional as always." Neji promptly turned his back on Naruto satisfied that Hinata had been humiliated and lost. Even so, watching her withering form did nothing to sooth the pain from losing his father but it was a start. The humiliation and embarrassment from losing due to clumsiness would surely be a millstone in the way of her path to becoming a respected ninja. It would haunt her career all her life. Just knowing that he was the cause was enough to ease only a drop of the pain that she had scorched him with all through the years.
"I'm talking to you!!!" Naruto yelled indignantly causing Neji to halfturn glancing at him with disgust.
"Nothing you say will change the fact that a loser cannot win. Hinata-sama has always been a failure. It is in your best interests to spend your time with someone whose life is not entirely worthless." as Neji spoke his highended tone only made Naruto's fists clench tighter with every word and he bent down to his knees his fingers collecting the blood that had been spilt from Hinata onto the ground. Boldly he clenched it out in front of him as it dripped to the ground his words ringing through the stadium.
"I might not be anyone special to her. And I might be a stranger but something I can do is defeat you in her stead. I will win." he said proudly.
With those words he left the stage heading back to his place beside his team. Sakura looked at him strangely. She had been aware of Naruto's change in attention since the arrival of the other teams and now she finally knew what the cause of such a thing was. She felt a bit of jealously and suddenly longed herself for Naruto's attention once again. Maybe if she began coming to understand him, things would change. Naruto's eyes however stayed forward and focused on the board. He had won his match againest Kiba and would surely make it to chunnin. She didn't doubt him as much as she had before.
Everything was changing in that moment as people fought some winning others losing. Kankuro surprisingly dropped out but the most important change was in Gaara. He had been shaking through it all. It was indignant that Naruto dared to speak to Hinata in such a way to protect her and through the whole time while he stayed silent he was secretly seething. He hated Uzumaki for reaching her before him but he hated himself even more for not being able to break his hard edged demeanor and rushing to her side. What would have changed if he had done that? He fixed his glare upon Naruto who had turned to match it. They both stared each other down anger in their hearts from identical circumstances but neither bothered to attempt to understand the other and both turned away.
When Gaara's name was called he went down to fight Rock Lee. He had remembered the boy's resolve when they were children and felt honored to have a worthy opponent. For once someone who wouldn't make him feel guilty towards his promise with Hinata. If he killed Rock Lee it would simply be a fair fight.
As he disappeared and appeared on the stage he felt his anger begin to unleash and from the beginning to the end of the fight he gave his all before finally managing to defeat Rock Lee. He watched with disdain as Naruto glared at him while running past him. Gaara was not to blame. He had not killed Rock Lee. The boy was lucky.
Gaara kept walking he had but one destination ,that was to see Hinata. He needed to see her to make sure she was alright. Neji hadn't injured her severely so that reassured him enough to wait. He needed time to think of what to say. Something that was better than what Naruto had to dish out and he felt fallen and unsure of himself. Even so Hinata needed him and he wasn't going to let himself fail her now.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~At the hospital~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Hinata sighed in dismay as she glanced out the window shame filling her heart. She hadn't even been strong enough to see Gaara win his match and that knowledge almost made her feel as if she had betrayed him a little.
"Maybe Gaara isn't coming today." she said outloud to herself clenching her hands to her chest. He must have certainly been ashamed of her now. He always was when she lost and her heart shivered at how to speak with him. He was the one she was most sensitive with considering the fact that they meant more to each other than words or actions could reflect.
"Do you really have so little faith in me now?" a whisper came through into her ear and when Hinata opened her eyes Gaara was there leaning over her hospital bed his face inches from her.
"G-Gaara." she quietly looked down her eyes overshadowed with shame and nervousness.
"P-Please leave. I can't see you right now. I'm not ready." she spoke unable to barely get the words out as her voice cracked.
"I'm proud of you Hinata." were the words that came to hit her so painfully and she slowly glanced up to look into his eyes as he delicately brushed her hanging bang of hair behind her ear.
"Look at me. I wouldn't lie. You know that."
"Then why did you kill that person?
There was nothing but silence as an answer.
"I didn't have a choice."
"You always have a choice you just chose the easy one out as always. You broke your promise Gaara. You've always been someone that my heart trusted and now."
"Would you rather that I die?"
"Don't even say that. You know that I always want you beside me. But you can't erase the fact that you already broke your promise."
"I didn't intend to kill them but I did turn their attack back on them it was certainly not intentional." His hand moved closely to caress the side of her cheek affectionally. "I'm asking you desperately to believe me. I did everything I could not to kill. Don't let me lose your trust also."
"But you did break your promise that doesn't change whether you meant to or not."
"I promised you I wouldn't kill for Shukaku anymore. Go on and accuse me if I broke that promise to you."
Hinata was silent herself and retreated from him turning away. "I was wrong, I guess. It isn't anything new. I know you must think lowly of me. I'm accusing you just so I don't have to think about being defeated in such a shameful way." she turned giving him an uncomfortable smile. "You must secretly hate me for all these demands."
"Are you in pain my dearest one?" he asked gently his other hand coming to caress her other cheek bringing her face closer to his. "Neji hurt you more than physically I know. I remember what it felt like when Yashamaru tried to kill me. So I understand. Tell me how you feel. I won't judge you anymore these days...I know...more than ever that any minute you could be ripped away from me. Don't hesitate." he said gently pulling his hands away moving to gently hold her hand resting on her lap.
"Frightened. Ashamed. Crushed. When Neji-niisan spoke to me...I...I couldn't... contain my anger. I let myself go and all the secret hate I'd been feeling overwhelmed my soul. But even with the pain and the anger and the drive and the hard work I failed. It was me alone, he didn't even defeat me I just...failed. Everything I was trying to change about myself was thrown to the wind and I realized that I can never change. I can't say anymore of it."
"You are talking like Neji."
"He was the winner. He was able to become something more than a pawn of our clan but I was left in the dark. I'm sure you're already ahead of me also. You won your match didn't you." she watched him nod as her hand tightened within his.
"So I've been left behind." she mused.
"I will never leave you alone even if I have give up everything I've earned for you and destroy myself. You forget that you were the one who saved me when I was sinking in my despair." her eyes began to water and she reached up to wipe them with the hand that held her own feeling added comfort at it's pleasant warmth.
"Don't say such cruel things. I would never destroy you. I regret my words...so...please understand my feelings. Of course I trust you but sometimes I feel as if the real you is far away from me."
"I feel the same for you Hinata."
"Then this next month while you're training let's get know each other better once I get out of here that is."
"I believe that is a notable idea." his free hand came to rest on her cheek his other squeezing hers in reassurance. "We will certainly make use of this time." he neared closer to her and Hinata scooted back nervously as he neared her face before to her surprise he kissed her on the forehead the place where his love mark resided as his hand descended her cheek to rest on her stomach.
"Never forget that we share this mark together. Ai, love is something only I can give you and you can give me. That's all there is to it." he spoke Gaara's voice was so soft and gentle Hinata regretted turning away from him.
"Thank you." she replied softly. He turned around to leave but she stopped him with her hand on his arm. "Stay here beside me. It's lonely without you." she spoke and the words warmed his heart. He dropped his gourd leaving an indention in the floor but neither one seemed to care as he sat upon her hospital bed scooting up to lay upright beside her their heads resting against one another.
The silence was blissful and quiet a simple thing as they sat there together. There wasn't anything overly different about it except for the quiet sounds of shuffling movement throughout the hospital and the barely ever present movement of the sheets.
This silence lasted for a few hours as the both of them drifted slowly in and out of consciousness. Occasionally they woke and talked out simple things. The weather in Konoha and things that had gone on in Suna. And before long the day had left them and they stayed there together throughout the night.
Only a few days later Hinata was released from the hospital. Hinata stretched her legs and arms as she felt her body renewed by the few days stay she had been there. She hadn't been hurt too badly by Neji so she was already back able to be up and running again. She stood by Gaara's side looking curiously into his eyes from an angle.
"Ne. Did...Naruto say anything to you after I went to the hospital." she asked him cocking her head to the side in curiosity. Her eyes glazed over a bit with shyness as she spoke. Naruto-kun was so kind to her always and she hadn't seen him in a few days.
"No. Nothing." he replied simply. "Do you wish to visit him?" Gaara asked his voice sounding forced and nervous. Hinata nodded at him brightly before chuckling a bit at the sudden sour look his face fell into.
"Heh. Gaara don't look so down." she said letting go of his hand to hold it in a more intimate matter as she laced her fingers through his. "Naruto is only my friend. I won't tell you that again you baby." she teased sticking her tongue out at him teasingly.
"Your in a good mood today aren't you." he said inquisitively. "Is it because we're going to see Naruto?"
"Of course not. It's because this is the start of my time with you. It's kind of like when a husband and wife are on a honeymoon and they get to be all alone in a foreign place. They don't have to worry about people looking upon their relationship with accusing eyes. They can do what they want and for a little while be...completely free together." she noticed a small blush on his cheeks that matched her full on red.
He stood still and quiet for a minute and Hinata wondered if she had said something to anger him or not as he had stopped walking and froze in his spot. His lips opened and closed for a moment.
"Husband and wife?" he stated plainly as he looked at her in a curious manner. A rather interesting image came to his mind and her in an apron covered in flour and smiling pleasantly as she hugged him tight calling him her beloved husband. It was something that he only could dream about at the moment but as he looked at her rather robotically he almost wanted to see that very image before his eyes.
"Yea-Yeah. But it's not like we are gonna get married or anything." she said twiddling her fingers. "We are just kids. After all who knows if we will still be together like this even days from now. Maybe soon we will have to part."
"I wouldn't let you leave me Hinata." he spoke rather boldly only increasing her blush as she unexpectantly turned to face him and catch him in a tight embrace she rose her face from being buried in his shirt and bravely looked into his eyes.
"Come after me. If I run away from you. My Gaara." she spoke shyly to him with a smile. She couldn't seem to hold it back anymore and lightly closed her eyes. She delicately pushed up on her tiptoes to reach him as she held onto his shoulders for support feeling his hands surround her waist to pull her closer. She began leaning forward to kiss him gently but unfortunately she missed. Her nose knocked against his awkwardly and as they both opened their eyes they discovered Hinata's lips were upon his love tattoo. This only caused her to redden more as she pulled away sharply.
"S-sorry. I guess I don't have good aim." she commented in embarrassment.
"I don't mind if you try again." he stated. Hinata took a breath and closed her eyes again and neared his lips nervously.
"Well, well, well, it looks like you got out of the hospital quick." a voice interjected and a reddened Hinata's eyes snapped open sharply as she turned to see the last person she wanted to see.
"Neji-niisan. What are you doing here."
"I'm going to congratulate you Hinata. On securing a future for yourself. It's obvious you are a failure as a ninja but you will surely be an interesting playmate for the future Kazekage. I mean no disrespect to either of you. It's a perfectly respectable occupation. Being a playmate that is...if you wish for me to put it that lightly.
The both of them said nothing. Hinata could feel Gaara's blood boiling and his skin heating up in anger even as he held her and she felt responsible. If she had won Neji-niisan wouldn't be around to bother them like this anymore.
"Are you so lonely that you had nothing better to do than come terrorize your cousin? You are not even worth the dirt you walk upon. She becomes the heir soon and when that occurs you will most certainly die. Enjoy your time living as a caged bird." Gaara spat at Neji as he turned to walk away but Hinata stopped him for a moment looking powerfully upon her cousin.
"I don't need Gaara to speak for me. Nii-san. I did not die in our battle. You didn't kill me as you spoke you would. So maybe you are nothing less than a liar or someone who feels alone and unable to reach out. Gaara might be right that you will die someday but it won't be because of me. At my hands you will lose your curse seal and be no different in our clan. That's the last thing I can do for you. Because you are my beloved`cousin Neji-niisan." she spoke with a saddened soul before turning away from him.
"I will never understand why she holds you in such high esteem." Gaara crossly spoke before following her away.
Neji was shaking in anger as he watched her walk away the anger and confusion welled up inside him before he shouted at her angrily. "Those memories cannot disappear!!" she didn't stop and his fists clenched before they loosened as he turned away himself. Why was it that he couldn't leave her alone? Why was his heart so desperate to squeeze her own so tightly? All of these things he didn't concern himself with...he had training to do.
"Our day together is ruined." Hinata commented sighing dejectedly as the two sat on a bench far from where they had met up with Neji. Hinata leaned against Gaara's body her own feeling exhausted at the mental bout with her headstrong cousin. "So much for the honeymoon feeling of it all." she spoke with a sigh.
Gaara's eyes narrowed and he sat Hinata up straight looking at her curiously. "Do you choose to allow him to defeat your spirit as well as your opportunity?" he asked sharply his voice a bit tense. Hinata's eyes snapped out of their depressed state as she focused on Gaara for a moment. She had been so negatively affected by Neji she had almost forgotten that this was their time to enjoy together.
"You're right." Hinata balled her hands in fists pushing her elbows down in a determined matter. "Alright!! I won't let Neji-niisan get to me anymore. This is our vacation." she nodded to herself letting the words energize her before standing up proudly.
"Do you wish to go to Naruto's home?" he asked once again receiveing a nod a bit less anxious than before. With that the two headed to meet the overactive blonde of Konoha.
Knock. Knock. Knock.
The sound echoed againest a hard wood door as Gaara stood awaiting the presense of the one other human he hated more than the Kazekage. He was only doing this for Hinata afterall.
"Now please try not to get into a fight Gaara. I want you two to get along."
"Hmph. I already told you. I don't like him. That's never going to change."
"Give him a chance Gaara. If you don't then how will you ever make other friends."
"I don't need anyone but you Hinata." these words caused her to smile a bit and feel her heart become overwhelmed with selfishness and she was almost glad to have that feeling all to herself.
"Hina-chan!!!!" a voice echoed out as Naruto's door was suddenly open he was on her wrapping his arms around her neck enthusiastically as he brought her close causing them to tumble to the floor. Gaara only glared down at the boy as he helped Hinata up pulling her out of his tight hold.
"It's good to see you Naruto-kun. You're looking well."
"You too Hinata-chan. Sorry I couldn't visit yah but I was so busy after the exams." Naruto's eyes immediately narrowed as they drew upon Gaara's feeling the uncomfortable glare that was being sent his way. "Why did you have to bring him along dattebayo..." Naruto grumbled as he met Gaara's glare with equal power.
Hinata gave out a nervous laugh before Naruto welcomed them inside and all three of them moved to sit at the table.
"I-I just thought you two might be able to get along is all. So I was hoping we could all eat together."
"Mm. That last breakfast you cooked us was delicious."
"You cooked him breakfast?" Gaara exclaimed his eyebrows tensing up.
"They had to eat before the exams besides Naruto only has ramen in his kitchen. I wanted to be of help to him since he let me stay..." her voice trailed off she didn't want to talk about that night.
Gaara looked upon her curiously. He could tell she wasn't hiding anything but simply nervous. Could she possibly like Naruto more than a friend despite all they had been through? The nervous distrust overcame him and he hit his fist on the table in front of Naruto looking at him with a scrutinizing gaze.
"What are your intentions with Hinata?" he spoke straight and to the point and Naruto answered proudly.
"I like her. She's a cute girl and all but unfortunately you're in the picture."
"That's right." Gaara snapped back with a glare.
"Plan on stepping out enough to give her some breathing room." Naruto asked leaning closer over the table towards Gaara.
"Hinata has no trouble breathing with me. You are the one smothering her everytime you are in her sight." Gaara answered in anger. He had quite enough of Hinata being jumped by Naruto 24/7.
"Stop it! I thought I asked you two not to fight. You are both very dear to me but Naruto." she paused before she spoke. "Gaara and I the bond we have isn't going to change. He is my dearest and closest friend and I won't ever leave him. But you are the first other person I've come to be able to put my trust in. For that I can't help but thank you from the bottom of my heart. I really... wanted to see you." she spoke smiling at him so brilliantly Naruto thought he might lose himself in that moment.
"That means a lot to me Hinata-chan." he commented a proud smile on his cheeks. "Guess what! I'm one step closer to becoming Hokage you see this perverted old ninja says he's going to teach me everything he knows. I'll surely become a chunnin under his training."
"An old ninja sounds like one of the sannin of the Leaf." Gaara said quietly.
"You know about that old man!!"
"Any fool knows about the legendary three sannin of your country. They were major fighters in the war and are the highlight of your village history."
"How you know all this anyway?"
"I paid attention in my Academy history class." Gaara said proudly before Hinata chuckled pointing a finger at her own face.
"He had help. Back then I did well in school since the academics were my strongest area. Without me as his study partner I don't know how Gaara would have made it through those first couple of years. " she spoke watching Gaara turn to her and show his peeved expression at her unveiling such a thing to his enemy.
"I never did well in the Academy. They called me a dropout and a failure. The whole village secretly despises me. It's something I have lived with. The burden of being always alone."
"Well we're here now Naruto."
"But in a month you will be gone back to Suna. I will miss you when you go Hinata."
"Don't worry Naruto I'll be here all month you can always come visit us."
"I might not be able to. I have to train nonstop so that I can defeat anyone I come up against. Especially Neji Hyuuga."
Those words made Hinata's eyes widen as she glanced at Gaara's who were closed uncaringly.
"I made a promise Hinata-chan. That I would win against him. I definately will keep my promise. Dattebayo." Naruto was looking in her eyes so fiercly Hinata could swear she felt her heart pound. She ignored the feeling as quickly as it came and smiled brightly at Naruto.
"I know you will keep your promises." her smiling face irritated Gaara to no end. Was she trying to imply something with those words he wondered.
"Gaara has always been trustworthy to me Naruto. As my new friend I know you'll do the same." her words were kind and strong. They were words that Gaara knew he could trust no matter the sutuation.
The three talked for a little bit longer before Hinata decided to go get some groceries. The morning had faded into the afternoon and it was time to start preparing dinner.
"I can go buy something for a minute and you two can stay here and maybe talk a little." Hinata mentioned with a smile. The two boys grimaced uncomfortably and Gaara promptly rose from his seat.
"Just tell me what it is you need and I'll go get it for you." he said evenly as he looked her way. He was making a bold move but after all he trusted her and knew she could at least be safe with Naruto.
"Well I think porkchops would be nice. Please get the center cut kind and maybe some onions, parsley, season salt, vegetable oil and flour."
"I think I might have a few seasonings and some flour Hinata. I guess he doesn't have to get that."
"Is that all you need?" he asked and received a nod as an answer. At that Gaara turned and moved to head for the door. "I will be back soon." the moment the door shut the rather uncomfortable fog left the room. Hinata sighed a bit knowing that Gaara most certainly didn't want to leave her alone but was forcing himself too. She'd definitely have to reward him somehow when they left Naruto's.
"Ahh flour it's in the top cabinent up there."
"Oh. Okay." Hinata said and stretched for a minute before she sighed in dismay it was much too high for her.
"I can't get it. Can you help me Naruto?"
Naruto smiled and rolled up his sleeves proudly. "Alright. Let's do it!!" he said cheerfully but inside he was almost crumbling apart.
Naruto's eyes shook a bit as he felt his heart reach out. He had never been one to think much but at the moment he couldn't seem to stop the feeling overwhelming him. His heart began to pound at a ridiculous rate as he stood behind her reaching over her daringly for the flour he had stored on the top shelf unaware it would put him in such a situation.
He could feel the warmth of her back and smell just a hint of the delicate peppermint in her breath. He never wanted to move from that spot and was almost sure he had stayed there a little too long because he could feel the nervous tremble of her small shoulders.
As he grasped the flour he sat it down gently on the counter his arms on either side of her and he swallowed so overcome with anticipation he could swear he had sweat running down his face. She was so close to him and if he just could have the spunk he'd turn her around say a cheesy line and kiss her...but he knew any minute Gaara would come running in the room and that surely wouldn't end things well. He never would want to put her in a corner but it felt so delightful having her so close to him. Regretfully he backed away giving a nervous laugh as he headed into the opposite room. He had a little something to take care of while Hinata made the dinner.
Hinata let out a breath she had been holding as Naruto exited the room. Just who was it that orchestrated all this drama into her life she wondered. She shook the thoughts away as she moved to find the few seasonings she could use to prepare the flour. Before she knew it the door creaked open and Gaara walked in carrying a cloth tote bag filled with the items she requested.
"I'm back. I got this for you. It makes it easier to carry the groceries home. By the way I bought a little extra for us since we will be around here for the next month."
Hinata smiled as she walked up to Gaara giving him a peck on the cheek in thanks. "Thank you. Welcome back." she spoke with a smile.
Gaara smiled slightly as he moved to sit the things on the counter allowing her to unpack them. He felt the sudden urge to use the bathroom and headed to the back of the house. After he finished his business he headed back but suddenly come to a stop at the sound of a rather disturbing grunt.
Gaara winced in disgust as he heard rather unpleasant noises coming from Naruto's room. The very idea that he was thinking of Hinata while pursuing such activities nearly caused him to retch however he wasn't blaming Naruto. Hinata was throughly adorable and he could understand why any boy would want to be with her. That was why he had to hold onto her even tighter than before.
The mission he had to complete wouldn't help matters at all but he knew more than ever that she wouldn't let him go so easily. He didn't know what to do but he had an idea one he wasn't fond of at all.
"Gaara. Do you want yours baked for fried?" Hinata asked snapping him promptly out of his troublesome thoughts.
"Baked." he answered simply.
"Hmm I think I'll go ask Naruto what he would like. " Hinata said and she moved to head towards Naruto's room before she felt a hand on the top of her head stopping and pulling her back. For a moment Hinata lost her balance before she straightened up to her feet.
"He already told me he wants a baked one too." Gaara said quickly he had no intention's in letting Hinata go anywhere near Naruto at the moment.
"Gaara. Did you really talk to Naruto?" Hinata asked her eyes glittering a bit as she looked at curious of the truth.
"I just figure he won't want to bother you. I like mine baked because that's how you like yours. He won't want to inconvenience you of that I can be sure."
"Well when you put it that way. I suppose it's easier to bake it all at one time. Okay. We'll have baked pork chops, sliced sugar carrots, cream corn, green beans, and boiled red potatoes.
"That's quite a lot. Are you expecting more company?"
"No but I figure if I cook it all now that Naruto will have plenty to eat later. He lives alone by himself you know and doesn't have anybody else with him. So I want him to have enough for later you know." she said with a timid smile.
Gaara sighed a bit impatiently closing one of his eyes in an annoyed fashion. "I don't see why it matters. He got along fine without you before."
"Well that was before and this now. Besides it's nice to have someone else around to cook for. You know we always have too much at home left over."
Gaara eyes could only look down as he secretly planned to punish her for such words. They didn't need anyone but each other and he was going to make that clear.
Hinata stretched as she followed behind Gaara who had been quite silent on their way home. She asked him if anything was wrong multiple times but he had nothing to say in response. She figured he probably was tired after the meal and ready to go to sleep soon.
She let out a bit of sigh at that. She had almost forgotten that he couldn't sleep with his condition and that feeling of sadness overwhelmed her heart at such a thought. She looked up into Gaara's gourd and wondered just how painful it was to carry along with you the very thing that proved you were a monster for all to see.
Hinata let out another sigh and this time Gaara turned to look at her curiously before moving back to face forward.
The two promptly headed up to their room without a sound and the key slid in and out and the door was open. With a yawn Hinata pushed it open thinking nothing of Gaara taking the do not disturb sign to put on the door she figured he wanted his privacy and all. Without a word Hinata began changing her back to Gaara as she pulled off the heavy jacket she always wore as she headed into the bathroom.
"Hey Gaara. Do you think you'll be okay staying up by yourself."
"I suppose. he said leaning against the door with a bit of cunning. He wasn't sure exactly what he wanted to do. But he wanted to let her know he wasn't happy at that statement she had made back at Naruto's home.
"Can I come in?" he asked his voice shaking a bit as he attempted to mask the playful menace that was surely about to enter.
"Bu-but I'm not done changing." she retorted back and the sound of the water running came to his ears.
"I'll close my eyes I just want to get a towel."
"Well I'll hand you one."
Gaara was silent at that he only needed one moment and the moment to the door was open he slid himself in in a quick movement. Hinata's eye's widened as she looked on him in mild shock.
The look in his eyes was hungry and a bit desperate. She realized she must have been quite dumb not to expect this after leaving Naruto's. Suddenly though to both of their surprise Hinata began laughing lightly and she slowly moved closer to Gaara wrapping her arms around his neck as she brought him close. She was fully clothed after all and wasn't as surprised as she had let on.
"I knew you were jealous all the way home. I told you before that I only need you more than anyone else." she pulled back delicately as she let him go putting one finger up to her lips and winking teasingly.
"Please don't call me a liar." she said the words were so reminiscent of their time as young children that Gaara felt his jealousy and anger break. He suddenly realized that he could share Hinata.
He had her close to only him ever since they had met and after they left Konoha she would finally be only his alone. That knowledge made him breathe out a breath of relief a bit as he sat his hand on his hip a knowing smile coming across his lips.
"So you basically let me in huh."
"Yup." Hinata said with a smile before capturing him within her arms. "I really like you Gaara. But you've dirtied yourself up with the lies you tell yourself. I think we both need to get you clean." she said and with a laugh filled joy she pulled him back with her to fall into the hot tub style bathtub giggling pleasantly as she looked at him covered in water looking a bit displeased.
"Eeehh. You always do things like this when I'm in a bad mood. It's not fair." he pouted a bit uncharacteristically which only caused Hinata to giggle in response.
"Isn't it nice. The water feels just right now." she said with a smile pressing Gaara closer. His miffed look lightened a bit as he saw how delighted she was to have him close to her.
"It's alright if it's like this." he replied wrapping his arms around her waist as he leaned back against the tub trying not to ruin the moment with his normal depressed and angry demeanor.
"Your my only one Gaara." she said clutching him tighter to her body. "I will never be as close to anyone but you because you were the first person that reached through the darkness to save me. Sitting here with you like this is the first and last thing I always want to do."
"You want to take a bath together?" he asked curiously. Hinata blushed promptly shaking her head no.
"I just want to be close to my best friend is all."
"I guess that's alright too." he replied and the two laid there enjoying the night passing them by.
The days passed without event nothing more special happening than usual in Konoha. Hinata found the days enjoyable walking with Gaara and not only being able to enjoy the scenary but to rest somewhat. She had been so worried about the exams and now it seemed everything was going to work out well. She didn't have any hopes for becoming a chunnin this year but despite the fact that this was disheartening she didn't let it affect her. She had no choice but to keep moving ahead overcoming the future that was so close.
The shops in Konoha were loud the town bustling with brightly colored people who were all busy with building something unknown to her and her best friend. At this point and time her and Gaara were sitting in a rather fancy place that he of course had happened to pick. He wasn't as suspicious of places such as this that had no need for a high monetary gift from his Father as a thank you gift for his dead body.
"This is why we pack light so that we can actually bring nice extra things like this." Gaara said a bit cheekily as he brushed off the black suit jacket he wore tugging on the deep maroon tie resting on his silk back shirt. Hinata was glad he could finally wear the expensive clothes she was able to buy him feeling like they were really fulfilling her worth. He filled out the jacket smoothly and she blushed a bit as she noticed shyly the muscles behind the fabric.
"You like the outfit I suppose." she commented brightly.
Hinata smiled tilting her head to the side her eyes lowering in a kind look. She properly interlaced her fingers laying her chin on top of them. The short curled ringlets fell against her the side of her face and Gaara felt himself seem to not be so worried with the meal as what they were going to do when they got back to the hotel.
"You were the one who gave it to me. How could I feel any differently about it." he stated plainly causing Hinata to blush once again.
"That's just another reason why I like spending time with you like this. I get the wear the dress you bought me." it was a deep maroon wrapped around her shoulders extending down to sweep the floor gracefully. She wore a simple silver hair clip with the japanese kanji symbol Ai. She couldn't help but smile brighter as she reached across the table to take his hand gently.
"Thanks for the vacation. I couldn't have enjoyed this time more. We had so much fun together here in Konoha."
"You really like this place don't you. Would you rather live here?" he asked a miffed tone in his voice.
Hinata giggled a bit caressing his hand a little to calm him down. "Of course I would. Naruto is here too so I could stay with him any times I wanted but of course......." she trailed off for a moment displaying her smile to him once more.
"You two have got partner look." the waitress said with a smile interrupting Hinata's next words which Gaara was certainly aware of.
"I suppose we do. I never thought of that actually." she said turning her smile towards the waitress.
"So what would you like to drink?" she asked and with those words the evening began. Gaara and Hinata didn't speak on the matter anymore and simply made polite conversation as they ate their meal before they finished exiting the restaurant. Two people can interact with one another easily but as they walked together silence said so much for the both of them.
"I love being able to walk with you like this." Hinata spoke breaking the beautiful silence as she squeezed his hand tighter.
"We're already at the hotel. I'm sorry to disappoint you." he said with a smirk as they opened the door heading inside the building. They walked to their room shutting the door in silence. This time the air in the room seemed to hang a bit uncomfortably. Their time had drawn to a close and now the battles were going to begin once again. Hinata sighed with a troubled tone "Umm...I guess we should go to bed now huh." she said as she nervously leaned against the shut door fiddling with the cool metal of the knob.
"Yes. I'll go take a quick bath and get my things prepared." he answered moving into the back room to get his clothing and such prepared.
Her eyes shook with anticipation of what was to come. Tomorrow everything would be tested and the winners of the exam would be determined. She let out a sigh opening the door while looking back at Gaara the weight of her failure upon her.
"I'm just going to take a walk, okay." she said hearing him tell her not to stay out long as she shut the door. She walked through the hall letting out a breath as she held up her skirts that brushed the ground.
"As for tomorrow, everyone knows the plan correct." the strong voice of Baki- sensei resounded from a hidden corner of the hall and Hinata ducked behind a plant to hide herself. She wasn't aware of any plan.
"Yes. Gaara is set to fight Uchiha Sasuke. During the fight our sand ninja and sound ninja allies will emerge in the stands and Orochimaru will kill the Hokage of Konoha." Kankuro answered.
"I'm to enter the exams as a default since Hinata was defeated and fight Shikamaru Nara. I'm to lose in the battle as our main objective is to allow Konoha to be utterly destroyed. I'm to save my strength for that cause."
"And everyone is clear on Gaara's part in the plan I'm sure." Baki asked sharply resulting in a nod from the other two. "He'll do what he was born to do. And destroy the entire village. He will kill as many ninja as possible. That is the objective I believe he set for himself."
"But what of Hinata? What if she gets in the way? We know how much she loves this pathetic village. Surely she won't let Gaara do something like this." Kankuro spat.
"She is weak. Gaara knows the consequences should he refuse. I'm sure he's quite aware of them himself. That's why a few days ago he insisted on being able to kill as many people necessary." Baki spat without a care. "We'll meet tomorrow and further discuss this. You are dismissed." he ordered and within that second all three of them disappeared.
Hinata's heart had sank so deep she wasn't sure if she could lift it up. The sudden intense pain knowing that Gaara was planning this all along from the moment they arrived in Konoha. Everything was coming together. Baki-sensei's snide comments. The man who died in the forest. His increasingly strong lust for blood. Everything. He'd fixed it all so that he could kill someone. And not just someone...but a village full of innocent people. He had lied to her. He'd never planned to keep his promise.
He lied.
He lied.
He lied.
With every moment that the words sunk in Hinata felt anger meld within her soul. How dare he lie to her! Did she mean nothing. Did everything they had been through really mean nothing?! She'd let him take advantage of her again and again and despite it all she still wasn't even given his trustworthiness in return.
Her heart wavered wondering if their words were true. Could they have been lying? What need would there have even been for them to lie? The truth was sinking in deep within her and she felt the need to run away. But if she did how could she ever stop this.
'I will confront him. I have to. If I stand in his way maybe I can save someone's life. Is there even the slightest chance that it could happen?' she wondered and headed back to the room trying to fix her face into a comfortable smile. That finally rested upon her. She heaved in her breath the lump in her throat stronger than ever as she opened the door with a weak smile upon her face to see Gaara there. He was standing pleasantly by the table looking earnestly at the door as a puppy would awaiting its masters return. At his expression she suddenly felt her heart shocked with pain and love simultaneously and she ran forward wrapping her arms around his neck pulling him close.
"Are you alright?" Gaara asked his voice concerned as she rubbed her face into his neck holding him as if for dear life.
"Yes. It's just that. This is the last time We'll be together before tomorrow." she spoke her body shaking a bit as she pulled back from his neck to look him in the eyes. She walked towards him causing him to back up a curious look in her eyes of desperation and desire. Gaara had never seen such from her and was unsure what to make of it before the back of his legs hit the edge of the bed.
He slowly felt her hands on his chest and she pushed him with a bit of force and anger. She couldn't believe he'd lied to her so. That thought came over her and she wanted to make him pay for what he had done but despite it all she knew she just wanted to be beside him. He fell back in surprise onto the sheets.
Suddenly it seemed as if Hinata had snapped out of whatever she was in as a huge red blush overtook her cheeks and she crawled dress and all on top of him laying her head on his chest pleasantly. "You're everything to me Gaara." she spoke awkwardly moving in a position to straddle his waist as she sat up. She could feel him against her rather strongly but ignored it as she looked down at him shifting a bit in embarrassment.
"Tonight I want to lay right here beside you. Even if you become a chunnin and succeed don't forget me. Don't ever forget me." she spoke her voice shaking as heavy tear accumulated in her eyes." she rubbed them stubbornly before falling to lay against his chest for comfort. The next day was coming all too soon and Gaara unable to know what to do to comfort her just sat there running his fingers through her hair.
The hours went by before Hinata left his side to change into her panda pajamas before scooting back into his arms again. After that the night passed uneventfully the day finally coming to an end and the next day rising.
The both had so much to face but they seemed now to be looking different directions.
Mic Mic: Well I hope you enjoyed it. It's been much too long a whole year in fact. I'm ashamed forgive me faithful readers.
GaaHina theatre: Intervention
Ding ding ding ding diiing ding diiing ding diing!
Gaara: My name is Gaara. And I'm a psychopath.
When I was a baby my parents put a demon inside me. The whole village hates me. My father tries to kill me often. The only saving grace I have is Hinata.
Hinata: He really started losing it when he was attacked by his Uncle. That's what everything broke loose.
Gaara: I was five. And on the roof. And he tried to...to kill me. With explosives.
Hinata: And that day in class. He killed the sensei. After that everything changed.
Gaara: Now Hinata is my most important person. I don't know how I can stop. I have to kill or else Shukaku will kill her.
Motion graphic intervention comes across the screen.
Preintervention-
Candy- Now you know why you're all here. You want to help Gaara with his problem.
Kazekage-sama- I suppose. I'm getting Youtube popular from this right.
Candy- *looks annoyed* Did you write your letter?
Kazekage's wife's ghost- I wrote it for him. it's hard since my hands keep passing through the pencil. I had to buy a specialized one for myself off eBay. *points at Kazekage-sama* You did this. You made my son a deranged psycopath!!
Candy- The blame game is not going to work with Gaara. You all have to show him that you love him and won't allow him to continue this behavior
Hinata: I just want him to keep his promise.
Candy- You're the msot important to this problem. You're the only one who cares about him-
Kazekage's wife: Hey!
Candy- Who's alive at the moment. I want you to write your letter and let him know you won't let him continue this.
Hinata- *nods*
Walking down the hallway with Hinata. Gaara think's he's going to his final interview.
He opens the door and a look of surprise comes over his face. Hinata grips his hands smiling at him telling it's okay to come in. He follows looking around the room seeing kankuro, his dad, Dead mom, Temari, and Hianta who sits beside and not to mention Candy.
"So everyone's here today because they love you Gaara. And they have a few things they want to say to you. Dad you go first."
"Oh dang." fishes out his letter. "Gaara your psycopathy has affected my life in the following negative ways. 1. I have to attempt to assassinate you on a regular basis. *begins to tear up* 2. I had sleep with that horrid Hyuuga woman to make your little girlfriend hate me. and 3. I'm going to die in the next couple of chapters because you can't seem to destroy Konoha.
Candy- Someone get him out of here he's the main reason this boy's crazy. *security escorts the Kage out* Hinata your letter.
Hinata: *takes a deep breath* Gaara. You're my everything. I always dreamed we'd be together someday but...*tears up a little and gets handed a tissue by Candy* every night when you kill I die a little inside. I want someday to get married to you and for you to become the Kage of the village. But no one will ever trust you if you don't change. If you don't stop killing others I will be forced to....to...never speak to you again. Never speak to the one that means the most to me. I'll never be able to kiss you. Or let you hold me close while we watch the stars. All of this will be over. Please acept the treatment you have been offered today.
Gaara- I didn't know you felt like that.
Hinata- i do. I don't want to do this but if you don't get help. I- I*tears up as Gaara pulls her to lay on his shoulder*
Temari- So will you accept the treatment
Gaara- Yes...for my baby girl Hinata.
Hinata- Oh Gaara! *hugs tight*
Candy- Okay your going to the land of mist!
In the parking lot Gaara and Hinata hug tight.
Gaara takes her cheek pulling her close to kiss her long and hard. "I'll get better I promise."
Hinata smiles. "I'll see you soon."
3 months later
Hinata- I haven't seen Gaara in 3 months. I'm surprising him. I hope he's doing okay. *walks out into a shop house thing and sees Gaara sitting on the couch* Heey there.
Gaara- Wah. What are you doing here? Wow this is...wow...
Hinata- I missed you so much. You look so your black around your eyes looks so much better. Less black it seems.
Gaara- Marry me. I've thought about it and I never want you to leave my side.
Hinata- Oh gaara. I will!
Hinata and Gaara hold hands and walk off into the horizon.
YES!! I love Intervention a beautiful show and I would write the ending blurb better but it's just Gaahina theatre so it's just pure fun. REVIEW PLEASE!! ^^