Sasuhina for my lovely readers.
Sasuke Uchiha always had a hard time being inside Konoha. It wasn't just the glares he received or the whispers behind his back. It was unbearable to spend more time than necessary inside the walls of the village that took so much from him. The elders that conspired against the Uchiha were gone but it was a while before he could muster enough strength to walk on his family's land.
It was quiet, almost serene. The wildlife was scarce but he heard a chirp every once in a while. Walking to the center of the compound, he came across a Hyuuga. How dare someone trespass on Uchiha land! His sword was dangerously close to her neck in an instant. Her eyes were full of surprise and fear. "What are you doing here?" he asked.
"I was-" The blade pressed against her throat. "Are you going to kill me?"
A breeze passed through, before he lowered his weapon. However, he remained on guard. "This land is off limits," he snarled. "Get out."
Hinata rubbed her throat, making sure he didn't draw any blood. "It's not your land anymore, Uchiha-san. There are people who need homes and we need to rebuild. The Hokage made-"
Outraged and fury overcame him. "So the Hyuuga are expanding their territory? Is that it?!"
"No. Konoha is accepting refugees. All the major villages are and we have left this land untouched for long enough. If you have an issue with it, take it up with the Hokage." Hinata picked up her clipboard and resumed surveying the land.
Sasuke stormed out of Kakashi's office an hour later. He had lost any claim to the land with his status as a missing nin but Kakashi stressed that it was for the best of the village. He hated to admit that it made no sense for one person to hold dominion over such a vast piece of land when there were so many in need of shelter. Kakashi offered to set some land aside for him to build a home, which he accepted. Sasuke's pride wouldn't allow him to relinquish everything but he doubted he'd spend much time there.
Not wanting to lose everything, he searched through its ruins for family heirlooms. On more than one occasion, he came across Hinata. Every single time he ignored her presence and she did the same.
Their silence was interrupted one afternoon by the village hero and Sakura. The shock of seeing Sasuke around the village had faded after a few days. "Hinata-chan, I brought you lunch!" She smiled softly at her friends. "Why don't you take a break? I'll have my clones do some work while we eat."
Sasuke continued moving debris around while Naruto conversed enthusiastically with Hinata. He ignored Sakura's offer of food causing Hinata to frown.
"Don't mind him," Naruto said. "When they were giving out kindness, he got a stick up his ass instead."
Hinata wondered if it was possible for Sasuke's glare to spoil milk. "Listen here you little shit….." The two traded insults for a bit and it was becoming uncomfortable for her. She didn't know how they could function as a team. Hinata could never see Shino and Kiba talking to each other in such a manner.
"Are you deaf as well as terminally stupid?" He told Sakura after she offered him her leftovers. "I said I don't want your food." Everyone was used to Sasuke's sour mood but Hinata couldn't stand his attitude.
He dusted his pants and walked away. "A simple no would have sufficed," Sakura mumbled.
"You shouldn't be so cruel." Hinata said. Sakura and Naruto pretended not to hear but winced as Sasuke froze in his tracks. "She was just trying to be nice."
Turning back, he glared at her. "Listen here. If I've ever said anything that offended you or anyone else, I meant it. One good thing about you is you're easy to ignore," Sasuke remarked as he walked away.
Upset at the way he addressed Hinata, Naruto chased after him. "Sasuke!"
"What?"
"You can talk to me however you want. I hate that you're so mean to Sakura-chan but she's used to your ways. But don't ever insult Hinata-chan again," he threatened. "She doesn't deserve your wrath. No one does."
"What? Is she going to cry?" Sasuke mocked. "Doesn't look like it. I'm shocked."
Shaking his head in disappointment, Naruto began to walk towards the two women. "Grief changes a person. You of all people should know that. She has suffered enough."
"Whatever," Sasuke murmured. His former teammates left and it was just the two of them. He wondered who she had lost in the war. Hinata's clan was huge but her immediate family consisted of her father, sister and cousin. Squashing any sense of empathy, he reminded himself that he had lost more than anyone. No one's grief could compare to his and the loss of his brother was the most painful.
On the last day of Hinata's mission, she grinned at him. "Uchiha-san, I found some things that you might want to look over. I set them near the rest of your stuff."
Rather than feeling grateful, he felt aggravated. "If you're going to fake a smile, then don't smile at all. It's annoying."
Her lips thinned and she left, quickly creating a greater distance between them. He went back to his task, pushing her to the back of his mind. As the sun began to set, he made his way to the land that still remained under Uchiha control. A few boxes stood out, likely the items Hinata found.
Curiosity got the better of him and he opened the one nearest to him. Photographs, books, and various objects bearing the Uchiha clan symbol filled the container. He recognized many of the people in the photographs; the kids he played with, the old woman who babysat him, the shop keeper who pardoned his shortcomings more than once. His hand gripped the photo that happened to show his family at a clan celebration; he was just a toddler but his glee was evident.
The dark night made it hard to clearly see everything, but he doubted it would have helped. Tears fell down his cheeks and he carefully closed the box.
.
.
Hinata had just walked out of Ino's shop with a bundle of sunflowers. She sniffed them, closing her eyes for a few minutes. Sasuke followed at a respectable distance, not wanting to corner her yet not make a scene either. It was clear that she was heading to the memorial stone, something Sasuke didn't want to see. Itachi's name had yet to be engraved and he wondered if he ever would be memorialized.
"Hyuuga!" She turned around. "Thank you."
She remained silent, as if waiting for him to elaborate. When she realized that he wasn't one for words, Hinata slightly bowed her head. "You're welcome. Just because they're gone doesn't mean their stories should disappear as well. Think of it as me extending an olive branch."
He turned on his heel and disappeared. No longer bothered by his standoffish attitude, she continued on her way. However, Sasuke watched from afar as she kneeled and placed some of the flowers around the large stone. She said a few words before leaving. He continued to follow her, feeling lowly when she entered the cemetery. Hinata stopped where the newer graves were, in a far right corner. Sasuke didn't stay long enough to know how long she remained there.
Before leaving the village for another leg of his personal journey, he decided to find out who she had lost in the war. Quickly scanning the headstones for the Hyuuga name or symbol, he froze when he found it; NEJI HYUUGA was etched across a simple grave.
Memories of the arrogant yet talented shinobi flooded his mind. Still, Sasuke still couldn't understand why his death had changed her. As far as he could recall, her cousin was cruel to her and nearly killed Hinata at the chunin exams.
Instead of leaving the village, Sasuke found himself back in his small piece of sanctuary. Using the excuse of laying out his new home and land, he extended his time in Konoha. He half expected Hinata to appear before remembering she was finished with her task. However Naruto and Sakura, overjoyed with the new developments, kept him company even if he didn't want it most of the time.
Integrating with the rest of the village was harder to do. Everyone kept their distance from him and he pretended not to care. Out of the corner of his eye, he saw a young girl being tormented by a group of boys. They threw her doll over her head, constantly keeping it away from her. He frowned and easily intercepted the next throw. All of their faces paled at the sight of the infamous Uchiha.
While the boys scattered away, the small girl whimpered. She thought it was impossible to get her doll now. "Is this yours?" She slowly opened her big brown eyes.
"Y-y-yes." He extended his hand. She quickly grabbed it, leaving without as much as a thank you.
"That was unusually nice of you. What happened to your devil may care attitude?" Hinata asked. She happened to catch the end of the exchange.
Sasuke caught himself as he almost rubbed his neck. "I'm trying this thing where I try to sympathize with people and try to be nice to them. I hear I'm kind of an asshole."
"That's good." Hinata responded. They began to walk in sync, heading nowhere in particular. "You're not as simple as they made you to be."
"Hn." Yet his eyebrows rose in intrigue. "And what do they say about me?"
"That you're a traitor. A mad man. A killer." He almost flinched at every description.
"Aren't I?"
"You tell me." Her eyes bore into him. "Perhaps you are the many things they call you, but you have a reason to be hurt. To lash out at the world for what it did to you. Your tragedy filled you with rage and grief inside whihc could not be contained. You wanted your pain to be heard."
"You're speaking from experience?" He questioned.
"No. I just knew a lost boy once." Her eyes stared out at the lively village around them. "Uchiha-san, be angry. Be sad. But don't take it out on us. If you want to help rebuild the world, we welcome you with open arms. If you want to leave, I would not hold you here. But if you are with us, I suggest you prove it."
Hinata exuded grace and poise. It shocked him. "You've changed."
"And how would you know?" She challenged him.
He had no answer to give. Hinata was hurting, perhaps as much as he was. She knew the pain and despair from being ripped from someone she held dear. They resumed walking around the village. Sasuke wondered if she would follow him to the old Uchiha grounds. However, she continued on to the Hyuuga compound.
Sighing, he took in the changing landscape. The cleanup was underway and soon life would return to the land.
"I want to make my peace with my past," he said out loud. Sasuke felt the weight start to fall from his shoulders. "I want resolve not rage. I want to be happy again."
Days later, he still couldn't get her words out of his head. What awaited him outside? What was keeping him in the village? He didn't know. But it was still difficult to see himself living here permanently. His own peers still showed unease at his presence but Hinata didn't show glee or distrust. She merely treated him like another comrade whenever he was in Konoha.
.
.
"You need to see the truth! That's not him, he's gone and he is not coming back!" Hinata struggled against Sasuke's grip and freed one of her arms. She tried to reach out to her bloody cousin who held his arms out for her. Sasuke tightened his hold and pulled her farther away. It was difficult to do as he was still getting used to the prosthetic arm, regardless of all the rehab sessions he had with Tsunade.
"Let me go! Can't you see he's hurt?! Neji! I'm coming!" With her free, she clawed Sasuke's face in an attempt to loosen the Uchiha's hold. Sasuke hissed in pain and turned her around quickly. In this position, he could still have a firm grip but she wouldn't be able to use her hands against him. She still fought hard against his hold and he was thankful that she no longer wore her large jacket. The loose clothing would have made it harder to get a good hold on her.
"Naruto! Take her out already, the illusion will dissipate soon after!"
Naruto had a look of determination. This kunoichi dared to use such an underhanded tactic and he was going to make her pay. She managed to get inside Hinata's head and exploit a hidden weakness.
Hinata screamed at Naruto as he charged with a Rasengan in his hand. "Stop! You're going kill him! Naruto-kun, you have to save Neji!" Naruto's anger increased at her hysterical sobbing. He'd end this quickly for her sake.
"Help me Hinata! He's-!" The Neji impersonator choked on her words as the powerful jutsu struck her down. She fell to the floor and the genjutsu slowly began to fade.
"No!" Hinata shrieked. "Neji!" Once the jutsu was cleared, her eyes rolled back and her knees buckled. If Sasuke hadn't been holding her, she would've crumpled to the ground. Naruto looked at Hinata with anguish. She had been so strong during the war and assured everyone she was okay afterwards but her mask had cracked today. He made a vow to be there for her but he failed today.
"Do you want me to take her?" Sasuke slowly handed her over to Naruto. "Sakura should fix your face. C'mon let's go."
Sasuke sealed the woman's body for Tsunade to examine. Orochimaru's experiments had run amok and this one was causing mayhem on the nearby village. While finding his place in the world, he took up hunting them down and happened to come across his former teammates.
Sakura still hadn't returned from healing some of the villagers and Naruto pestered him into staying for the night. "I'm fine," he muttered for the fifth time. "Anyways the wounds are superficial."
Naruto nodded and sat beside Hinata's sleeping form. No noises were heard aside from the howling wind and the crackling fire. Sasuke noticed Naruto pull out his blanket and cover the Hyuuga. His fingers caressed her cheek. It was a tender moment. Feeling like an intruder, he got up and said he'd be on watch for any threats. "I'll be back," he assured Naruto.
Sakura's eyes widened when she saw Sasuke coming from their campsite. "Sasuke-kun!"
He motioned for her to lower her voice. "Naruto will fill you in. I'm going on a walk."
"Can I come with?" Her face filled with disappointment at the shake of his head. "Okay."
The next morning, few words were said. Hinata's head felt dizzy but Sakura brewed some tea for her. The usually loud members of Team 7 were walking on eggshells around her and Hinata soon found the atmosphere suffocating.
"I'm going to go get some fish for lunch," she announced.
"Do you want me to go with you?" Hinata shook her head at Naruto and gathered her supplies. She made it to the nearby river and saw Sasuke. Guilt swelled inside her as she saw his face was marred with scrapes and cuts.
He had sensed her before she had reached the river and tried to finish washing his upper body. "I guess it wasn't a dream. I'm sorry for my actions." Pulling out a small container of her healing salve from her pouch, she bowed her head.
"Forget it. It happens." He began to walk around her when he felt her arm on his shoulder.
"Please, take it. It's the least I could do." He remained stoic. "I could apply it for you if you don't want to get your hands dirty or-"
"The least you could do is let me go about my business and forget everything." Yet Sasuke still didn't know why he remained in the area. Maybe he needed the company after being alone on his travels for so long.
Her eyes lowered and she turned away. Sasuke began to put his shirt on and out of the corner of his eye, he saw her fumble with her fishing supplies. She caught him staring and turned her back to him to block his view.
Sasuke sighed and walked over. "Here, let me help."
"No." His eyes narrowed at her refusal. "I mean, thank you but I have it."
"Stop being so stubborn. We'll all starve by the time you get this untangled." He was trying to make a joke but her facial expression told him she did not take it as such.
"I said I have this under control. Please just let me do this by myself." She took the fishing line away from him and walked to the riverbed. Sasuke saw her eyes full of determination and how they brightened up when she unraveled the fishing line. He smirked at her and left her to her own devices.
Hinata brought back four large sized fish which Naruto hollered at excitedly. He hugged her and kept an arm wrapped around her waist causing Sasuke to look away. Hinata gently moved away from Naruto's embrace and began to clean the fish. Wanting to make himself useful, he offered to cook for the group. Sakura and Naruto were astonished at his thoughtfulness, while Hinata merely smiled.
"Sasuke-kun, let me heal your face." Hinata focused on her food more intently than normal as Sakura pleaded with Sasuke. "You don't want any scarring, do you?"
"Aw, let him be. Maybe it's for the best that he looks like that." Naruto snorted. "It'd get all those girls to stop pining after him. The bastard won't be the village heartthrob anymore! It's actually a pretty good look for him." Sakura scowled at him. Sasuke rolled his eyes at Naruto while Sakura threatened to pummel him beyond recognition. Sasuke soon noticed the look on Hinata's face.
She felt her chest tighten at the thought of what people would ask and how they'll look at her. Her father would be disappointed in her, her sensei, her team. Not feeling hungry anymore, Hinata played with her food. "You need to get the dumb smacked out of you," Sasuke scoffed. "The level of tact you have is truly remarkable."
Naruto looked over his shoulder. "Hey… shut up."
"Besides, Hyuuga has some ointment she was going to give me after lunch."
Everyone froze in position and while Hinata's face turned changed from shock to pleasant surprise. She put her plate down and rushed to her tent in search of her medical supplies. Meanwhile Naruto and Sakura still had their mouths open in shock. Sasuke finished eating his fish as if nothing had transpired.
Moments later Hinata walked up to the circle and outstretched her hands. Sasuke looked at it with a disinterested face. Her eyebrows furrowed in confusion. "I thought you said you would apply it." His tone was flat but Hinata brightened up even more.
She knelt down and opened the container. The other two ate in silence as Hinata gently applied her homemade healing salve. "This should help with any obvious redness and swelling. I'll give you more when we reach the village." Sasuke didn't respond but Hinata continued talking. "I mean whenever you visit."
"Tell me if it's too cold or if the smell is off putting. I know sometimes the minty smell can be too much. Neji used to-" Her hands stopped their movement and Naruto almost choked on his last bite. She cleared her throat. "I can change the smell if you'd like."
"I like it." She shot Sasuke an appreciative smile and wiped her hands on her shirt before closing the lid. He suddenly missed her gentle touch.
"We should be heading out if we want to reach the village before sundown." The three nodded at Sakura and gathered their supplies.
The mood traveling back was different and Hinata didn't know if it was a good thing or not. Naruto stayed close to her and would engage her in conversation while Sakura was more like a silent observer. Sasuke was hanging back and she suddenly felt like they all knew something she didn't.
Naruto offered to report to Kakashi. "Aren't you coming, Sasuke?"
"I think I want to walk around the village for a bit. I'll see him later." The blond furrowed his eyebrows but didn't inquire further.
"See you guys later!" They waved goodbye but his eyes lingered on Hinata.
"I should check in to the hospital with the scroll. Lady Tsunade might find something." Sasuke handed her the scroll containing the dead kunoichi's body. Sakura barely glanced back at them. Sasuke rolled his eyes at her obvious jealousy.
Hinata, being polite, automatically bid her goodbye. Sakura's tone and pitch obviously told her that she was upset but she was too emotionally drained at the moment to try to figure it out.
"I should be going as well. Hanabi's been pretty insistent about spending time together." She smiled at Sasuke and handed him the salve container. Her warm hands brushed up against his and the words began to form before he could think clearly.
"I know what you're feeling. I know how hard it is." Her previously calm demeanor turned into one of slight alarm. Her eyes started to tear up when he refused to let her go and she shook her head. Her lips pursed together and she tried to control her breathing.
Sasuke dragged her off to an obscured part of the village, away from any gossiping eyes. She fell to her knees and looked at the ground. "W-why are you telling me this?" She whispered it so softly that Sasuke almost didn't hear her.
"My brother… he died because of me. There's not a day that goes by that I feel...something. Anger, regret, rage, or despair. However, lately I always remember or try to remember the good times we had. The love he had for me and how much I still love him."
Sasuke suddenly felt foolish. He opened up to someone he couldn't say thought of him highly or at all. And all he was rewarded with was silence. He bared his personal demons in an attempt to help her and he ended up looking like a fool. In an attempt to pick up his broken pride, he turned and was heading home when she suddenly called out his name.
"My father said we are only to grieve once. Cry it all out and never look upon their death with sadness again but I can't." Hinata had a faraway look as she relived Neji's final moments. "H-how do you live with it? Losing the one who loved you so much but being the reason for it?"
Her eyes conveyed desperation and his throat suddenly closed. Who was he to give advice? Sasuke looked away. He was surprised by her sudden movement towards him and she grabbed his shoulders. "Please."
He looked down to meet her eyes. "I guess you take it day by day. There are some days that will be bad even terrible. Those are the days where you won't want to leave your bed. But then there are those that are better, so much better and you find yourself genuinely smiling. But you never forget them or what they did for you. You never forget. You can't."
Hinata let her tears flow freely but smiled. It was no cure for her heartache but then she realized that there was no cure for grief. It would stay forever; good or bad, the memories will stay with her. The heartache will remain imbedded signifying that Neji was still in her heart.
"I never want to forget Neji." She let go of his shoulders and stepped away from him. "Thank you." It wasn't a life altering conversation and she didn't feel great. But talking about it helped, a bit.
Shikamaru and Ino lost their fathers, Kurenai lost Asuma, but their loss didn't feel the same to hers; she felt responsible for his death. They deserved the support and comfort of everyone else. The guilt from the circumstances surrounding his death made her feel worthless and undeserving of any pity. Every time his name was mentioned, she wondered if they were finally going to say it. Blame her.
Hanabi always pushed it aside whenever Hinata tried to talk to her about her guilt. "You didn't kill him so stop blaming yourself!" But her sister wasn't there. Hanabi didn't see it with her own eyes. Maybe if she did, then she'd know the truth. "You killed him." "He died because of you!" "Why wasn't it you?"
"I should head home." She cleared her throat, trying to sound composed when she was anything but. "Oh, and that jar should last for at least a week. How long are you staying?"
"I'm thinking of making things more permanent." He shrugged. "I don't know yet but I'll probably stay for at least two weeks. I want to make sure this concoction of yours actually works before I leave."
Hinata did something she rarely did these days, she chuckled. "I'll be sure to make enough to heal those scrapes. We can't have you looking like you lost a fight with a wildcat." She smiled softly and left.
Sasuke watched until he couldn't see her figure. He wasn't completely sure her smile was genuine or not. Better see Kakashi, he thought.
Kakashi wondered if he should reclassify the last Uchiha's residency status seeing as he was around more frequently. This would not only mend some wrongs but in theory he could go on official Konoha missions. Although Sasuke took on various missions, such as taking care of bandits or hunting the last of Orochimaru's rouge experiments, none were officially sanctioned by Kakashi. Sasuke bearing a Konoha headband would bring a smile on the Hokage's face.
Not everyone could easily forgive Sasuke's transgressions, and Kakashi needed assurance he wasn't defending a lost cause. Wearing the garb only the Hokage could wear which symbolized the role he was entrusted with, Kakashi sat across Sasuke. His home was a work in progress and barren aside from the bare necessities. Anxiously waiting his answer, Kakashi noticed the stack of unopened jars by his sink.
"I made my choice, I will fight."
Kakashi wasn't certain he had answered at all. What did he mean? "Can you fight for what you don't believe in?" Sasuke was taken back by his question. "What I mean is, do you believe in the will of fire?"
"I believe in my brother's sacrifice," Sasuke replied. "I don't agree with how he did it but there's no use in wallowing in the past. He died not just for me but to save the lives of the innocent. That's enough to keep me going."
His chest swelled with pride; Kakashi's team was finally together.
"When do I begin?" Sasuke asked.
Picking up his hat, Kakashi pushed his chair back. "I need to meet with the council and shuffle some paperwork around. It shouldn't take more than a few days to finalize it. It's nice to have you back home, Sasuke."
.
.
The first couple of missions were completed in Konoha. There were to build trust and show all of Konoha's shinobi that they could rely on the Uchiha. Not wanting to squander his talent and skills on D-level missions, Sasuke was cleared for missions outside the village. Team Seven was rarely sent out as Sakura's intense training with Tsunade now required her to stay in the village. Naruto was itching to get back into the fray of things but was sent to other villages as a diplomat. Therefore, Sasuke was to work with different squads.
Team Ten's mission to Suna went without a hiccup. Gaara welcomed him with as much civility as possible but there was an unsettled issue between them. For the sake of diplomacy, they set it aside.
Sasuke was surprised by how much his classmates had grown. Ino was no longer a shrieking, loud fangirl. In her stead stood a gifted and poised, if still a bit mischievous, woman. Choji showed more confidence and initiative than when he was a boy. Their leader was still the genius everyone knew him to be, however his lazy attitude was nowhere to be found. Shikamaru's mind always found the best solution to any problem basing it on effectiveness not just convenience. Yet he still felt much like an outsider. The Shika-Ino-Cho team had bonds that ran deep and Sasuke wondered if he'd ever experience such a luxury again.
Working with Team Gai nearly made him regret his reinstatement. Out of all the teams, he knew little about them. Lee was still as loud and energetic as he remembered. Tenten, whose name he literally learned a few minutes before departing, seemed accustomed to Lee's boisterousness. It was unusual for a team to consist of two people aside from a sensei and it occurred to him that Neji was the third man of this squad. It surprised him how they managed to say their fallen friend's name so freely in conversation. Sasuke merely listened as they reminisced about some of their more humorous encounters while they sat around the fire.
Tenten was the first to go to bed, leaving Sasuke alone with Lee much to his relief. He had questions and out of the two, Lee was obviously the friendlier one. "Lee, how did Neji die?"
Lee's eyebrows furrowed as he fed the fire. "Obito was relentless with his attacks. There were so many wood projectiles, striking down so many of us. Hinata-chan was trying to protect Naruto, ready to die for him."
Sasuke looked at the flames as the wood crackled.
"He jumped in front of her, just as she was shielding Naruto with her own body." Shaking his head to rid himself of the image of Neji's bloody end, Lee stood up. "He was a hero. One of many."
"I thought he hated her. Hinata, I mean. The last time I saw them together, he nearly killed her."
Lee sighed. "A lot happened after you left. But Neji was already reconnecting with her before that. Naruto helped him become a better person." He smiled wistfully. "Neji mended their bond and it didn't surprise me that he would do whatever he could to keep her safe. He swore to protect her because he loved Hinata-chan."
The next morning, Lee was the first one up and encouraged his comrades to hurry up. Sasuke was annoyed with his cheery attitude this early in the morning. He wondered how Neji managed to cope with him.
"Sasuke!" Lee's voice brought him out of his thoughts. "Let us have a race. If you manage to beat me, I shall do 500 laps around the village while walking on my hands. What do you say?!"
He lashed him a bright smile and sped off. Tenten yawned and followed Lee at her own pace. Sasuke snorted and trailed behind them.
All of his missions were completed successfully and he received high marks from the squad leaders. However, he was curious to know why he hadn't been assigned to a mission with Team Eight yet. He had gone on a couple with Team Ten and Team Gai, sometimes combinations of those teams. When he walked into Kakashi's office, he tried not to look so hopeful when he noticed Kiba and Akamaru were also called in.
"It's a simple, short distance escort mission. The client is worried about rumors of bandits in that area. Make sure he gets to his destination safe and sound. That is it. You're dismissed."
"Seems simple enough." Kiba stretched his arms behind his head. "Think you can manage, Uchiha?"
Sasuke frowned. "Is it just me and him?"
"Hey! Akamaru is just as capable as any ninja!" Kiba protested. "What, do you need more babysitters?"
"Sorry. Is it just me, Akamaru and the dog?" He asked Kakashi who groaned in disappointment. This team combination was more of a test of Sasuke's patience.
"Fuck you! I was doing you a favor, pal!" Kiba snarled as Akamaru barked in agreement. "I refuse to go on a mission with this asshole!"
Sasuke sneered. "Fine with me."
"Enough!" Kakashi shouted. "You two are going on this mission. It's been paid for already and we can't replace you with anyone else at such short notice."
Kiba grumbled.
"What was that, Kiba?"
"What about Hinata-chan? She hasn't been on a mission since…why can't she go instead of him?" He motioned distastefully at Sasuke. "You said it yourself. It's an easy mission."
Kakashi rubbed the bridge of his nose. "That's not the issue. This is for Sasuke's sake as well-"
"Can't I go with her instead of him? He can stay here," Sasuke said. "Did you learn that trick yet, Kiba?"
Kiba was outraged. "If anything it's you who should have been better trained. Maybe your dumbass wouldn't have run into Orochimaru's arms!"
Akamaru circled around them, barking incessantly. "Good one, Akamaru!" Kiba cackled. "He does look like one!"
While they traded insults, Kakashi called Sai. "Bring Hinata here please," he instructed in a tired voice.
Hinata knocked on his door before he called her in. Her eyes narrowed in suspicion as she saw Kiba and Sasuke sitting far from each other. "You called for me, Lord Hokage?"
"Ah yes, can you have a seat?" He smiled but Hinata was apprehensive. "We have a small problem and think you can help."
"I'm glad to be of some assistance," Hinata cautiously replied. "What is it that you need from me?"
"You're to go on an escort mission, low level, pretty short." He noticed her eyes lower in disappointment. Kakashi knew what she was thinking. "This has nothing to do with your capabilities. Actually they do, but not the way that you might think. I believe you are instrumental to its success."
Her lips thinned at the assumed patronizing tone. "I see. When do I depart?"
"You and Sasuke-"
"Hey!"
He sighed. "And Kiba-"
"Arf!"
"And Akamaru," His eyebrow twitched in annoyance. "Are to leave in two days. I am putting you as team leader. Keep them in line and make sure our client does not regret our services. This is as much of a trial for you as it is for Sasuke."
Sasuke looked over at Hinata in confusion. Kiba put a hand on her shoulder and grinned. "We've got this."
"Yeah," she replied. "I think I can manage that."
"Good," Kakashi smiled. "Now get out of my office."
.
.
The mission was straight forward with no sign of bandits or other danger. The journey was quite boring for the shinobi escorts and the lack of action only fueled Sasuke's short fuse. He hated Kiba's condescending attitude, the looks he gave him, and subtle digs at his criminal past. In the past, Sasuke wouldn't care what others said or thought of him. However, Hinata's silence and halfhearted attempts to scold Kiba seemed to confirm that on some level she agreed with him.
It bothered him, actually it infuriated him. How dare she think so lowly of him after the deep conversation they had? Pissed off with her bipolar personality, Sasuke pulled her aside while Kiba was helping the merchant unload his cargo.
"What the hell was that all about?" She looked confused and Sasuke wanted to shake her. "You let Kiba say all that shit about me and didn't tell him off once. Is it because you two are friends? Do you agree with him? Is that it?"
"I thought if I stepped in too much, you would find it patronizing." Dismayed by his reaction, Hinata rubbed her elbow nervously. "I don't think you're a horrible person. I know you aren't. I've seen you tell other people off, so I didn't think you needed or wanted my help."
"Oh," he replied dumbly.
"If you want, I'll talk to Kiba-kun after we leave the Satoshi-san's village," Hinata offered. "If it bothers you this much, we need to address it. I can't promise he'll be friendlier but I'll make sure he's at least civil. We're all comrades and need to treat each other with respect."
Sasuke adjusted his pack. "Don't bother. It's a waste of time." She opened her mouth in protest but he shook his head. "It doesn't bother me. Really. I just wanted to make sure you both didn't have it out for me."
She nodded and walked over to talk to Satoshi, make sure everything was good to go. Sasuke was being honest, although he didn't disclose everything. Kiba could go to hell for all he cared, but he hated to admit that on some level he did care about Hinata's opinion of him. Sasuke scowled as Kiba wrapped an arm around a stern looking Hinata. He was laughing and tried to ruffle her hair but she stepped out of his embrace.
Sasuke smirked when she began to wag her finger and crossed her arms. Kiba had a sheepish smile and rubbed the back of his head. That satisfied feeling quickly went away when he bear hugged Hinata who giggled. He started walking, sensing the two behind him. Not wanting to look aloof, he slowed his pace. Surprisingly Kiba kept his comments to himself, only commenting about the great weather and food the village had to offer. Sasuke made eye contact with Hinata; she winked at him and shot him a supportive smile.
That night they took shifts securing the perimeter since they only had two tents. Anyone could sense the tension between Sasuke and Kiba so Hinata offered to bunk with Kiba but Sasuke quickly shot that down. "We need someone on the lookout," he reasoned. Kiba pointed out that Akamaru could be their look out but Sasuke wasn't completely comfortable with letting a nin dog, regardless of how big he was, be in charge of their safety.
Kiba offered to take the first shift and anyone could deduce that he was limiting the time he had to spend with Sasuke. Akamaru trotted happily beside him and Sasuke felt better than he had in a while. He enjoyed the serene tranquility that came with Hinata's presence and company. Before he knew it, she announced she was going to bed. Sasuke took this opportunity to get to the bottom of something that had been bothering him. "Why haven't you been on any missions? Did you get hurt or something?"
Hinata began to put out their fire. "They considered me unfit to continue on active duty until... they thought otherwise." She cleared her throat and turned her back while she gathered her supplies into her tent.
He frowned. "What would make them think that?"
"Do you really have to ask?"
Realization dawned on him. "Since then?"
"Gee, thanks." Hinata crawled inside her tent. Sasuke hurried inside much to her surprise. "What are you doing?!" She quickly adjusted the purple obi around her waist.
Sasuke ignored her question and sat down causing her to sigh. "Tell me what happened."
She turned on her lamp, not comfortable with talking to him in the dark. "Naruto-kun put it in the report. I don't blame him but I was taken off from active duty. I need to prove that I won't let it compromise another mission."
He disagreed and scowled. "What a dumbass. He should've kept it out. You all eliminated her and the village isn't being tormented by her illusions. End of story."
"Naruto-kun was right to do it. He was the one who defeated her and Sakura-chan helped the villagers more than I could. I should have seen through it but I didn't. She found my weakness and exploited it. If you weren't there…" Her knuckles turned white as she clenched her fists. "I'm a Hyuuga! Kurenai-sensei is a genjutsu specialist and she trained us to not fall for it! All her teachings… Why am I so useless?!"
Everything that she had been holding back was now out in the open and she couldn't stop. Hinata was ashamed that there was always someone who had to help her. Why couldn't she be strong? Why did she have to be so useless? Just for once, she wanted to do something by herself. Say 'I did it.' "I used to think that I couldn't cry anymore. I guess I was wrong. My father doesn't know I've been taken off. I sometimes sleep over at Kiba-kun's or Ino-chan's place. If he knew, he'd be so disappointed in me. He lost his wife, brother and nephew yet he's one of the strongest men I know. Father has never let his grief overwhelm him."
"If he's disappointed in you for any reason, he's also the stupidest," Sasuke lashed out. "Don't let anyone tell you how you should grieve or to stop crying whenever you think of them. Hinata, anyone who belittles your grief is an asshole." He began to breathe heavily and she move slightly away. "People die and people grieve. But we keep living because that's all we can do. We rise and fall, crumble to pieces and repair ourselves."
Hinata kneeled in front of him, holding his hands. She could see that his grief hadn't left him either. Sasuke kept his head down. "I've made so many mistakes but I can't dwell on it now. There's a reason why I'm still alive when everyone who has ever truly loved me died. So I'll find out what Itachi's sacrifice means for me. What does fate have in store for me? Who am I going to be?"
"You're Sasuke Uchiha and you will be the person you want to be."
"And you're Hinata Hyuuga," he replied. Sasuke picked his head up, his stare hardened. "Don't forget. Don't hide who you are or what you feel. Cry if you want or don't. But Hinata, if there is anything that you do need to do is to stop running away from it. Not dealing with your loss will eventually be too much to handle. Trust me. Wounds that haven't closed will bleed again."
Her mouth twitched as if struggling to speak. "Do…do you ever feel lonely, even when you're surrounded by people?"
"Yes and it hurts," he admitted. "Listen, Neji saved you during the battle because he thought your life was more important. Lee told me how he swore to always protect you, and with his sacrifice he has. My brother did the same for me."
She pulled her hands away to wipe her tears. "Naruto-kun…" Hinata began before clearing her throat. "I know he's really trying to help. He wants to say something but it's not easy to talk to him or anyone else about this. I'm scared of letting my clan down, letting him down. But he believed in me when I couldn't." Sasuke's jaw clenched, thinking she was talking about Naruto.
"When he died," she croaked out. "It didn't seem real. I kept expecting Neji to wake me up for training or call me for dinner. He was always so stern about punctuality. But Neji wasn't always so serious. He had his moments."
She giggled softly before it became boisterous. "Sorry," she told an amused Sasuke. "I just remembered something."
"No, tell me," he insisted. Much to his delight, Hinata grinned.
Between chuckles she told the story of the time Neji and Hanabi were in the middle of a prank war. "After Hanabi managed to embarrass him in front of his team, he asked me for help. Neji was out of his league. If you know Hanabi you'd realize she's a firecracker. But I didn't want to get stuck in the middle of it. She's my little sister and he…he's my brother."
Sasuke thought she'd be too depressed to continue but she merely chuckled. "It was quiet for a while and so much time had passed that we just assumed Neji surrendered without saying it. Then her birthday we realized he wasn't. Neji had a wicked smirk whenever he saw Hanabi as if waiting for something. As the festivities were winding down, he became frustrated while Hanabi was absolutely paranoid."
"For the sake of harmony, I asked him what he had done or was planning on doing. Apparently Neji had bought some itching powder while on a mission, potent stuff. He had sprinkled it on her bed and clothes. 'Why isn't she reacting?!' He asked me." Hinata began to laugh uncontrollably. "The problem was that Hanabi was sleeping in my room because of the storm the night before. Her clothes for the party were still being tailored so she didn't get any of it on her. Hanabi sighed in relief and he figured her paranoia was enough to satisfy his revenge."
Sasuke snorted. "That is pretty funny."
Hinata waved her hands. "That's not all of it. During the party, father had left his present for Hanabi on her bed. It was a beautiful new kimono. He laid it out, in full display." Sasuke's eyes widened with anticipation. "Yup. We didn't know until father was making a toast. At first, father was just rubbing his elbow, then his knee, then everywhere. He was trying to look regal while we were struggling to keep a straight face. Neji looked so terrified. Father abruptly stopped talking and quickly left. Afterwards, we managed to convince him that he probably had a bad reaction to something. Neji eventually found it hilarious too."
By the end of the story, Hinata was holding her stomach and trying to catch her breath. Sasuke was chucking along. She wiped her tears and laughed until she quieted down. Hinata smiled at him, through her tears he could see that something had changed.
Hinata stared up, gazing at the ceiling as if she could see past the tent. "Sometimes we used to watch the stars before we went to bed. For a while, I couldn't bear to look at the night sky without him. My heart aches whenever I find myself thinking about his last moments. But it his whole life shouldn't be reduced to that, right? Neji should be remembered for who he was and how he lived."
Sasuke shifted uncomfortably. She was expressing her grief but all he could think was how Hinata was the loveliest person he came to know. Her vulnerability drew him in and he wanted to wrap his arms around her. However she would take it the wrong way, assume he thought of her as weak or needing his protection. She might even think there was something romantic to his gesture. It wasn't like he wanted to hold her, whisper soothing words into her ear, or kiss her.
He only wanted to comfort her. And hold her. And kiss her. And make everything right again, continue to make her smile. Sasuke also wanted her to do that for him.
But she was better with someone like Naruto, someone who knew what he wanted out of life. "I should go relieve Kiba from his shift."
If she heard him, she made no indication. His feet felt heavy with every step he took. Turning back, he saw the lantern inside her tent dim until it was completely dark.
"It's about time you showed up," Kiba said with exasperation. "I thought you slept in and I would have to drag your lazy ass out."
Much to his shock, Sasuke didn't react like he anticipated. "Sorry. I'm here now so get some rest."
Even Akamaru tilted his head in confusion but they shrugged it off and hurried to get some well-deserved sleep. Sasuke perched himself on a branch and scanned the horizon for any threats, scolding himself when his mind carelessly kept going back to Hinata.
.
.
Kakashi had finally cleared Sasuke's name as in he would no longer be officially considered a rogue nin nor would there be any sanctions placed on him. His former classmates tentatively welcomed him back into their circle but Sasuke gravitated towards Hinata the most.
"I've been attending some sessions with a therapist," she said. They were preparing a section of Sasuke's land for a garden. He didn't think care for any specific crop or plant but any excuse to spend time with her was reason enough to give in to her suggestion.
He handed her bottled water and wiped the sweat from his forehead. "Hmm. And how are you now?"
"I'm okay." He frowned and she shrugged. "I'm better than before."
"So are you headed there after this?"
Hinata wiped her hands on her thighs and stood up. "No, we don't meet until next week but I might have to skip it." She gave him a small smile. "The Hokage has cleared me for a long mission with my team."
Sasuke returned her smile. "You'll do fine."
"I think so too. See you tomorrow." She turned to leave when he called her back. "Yes?"
"Since you don't have plans…I mean you probably already do." Sasuke looked to the side and struggled to remove his work gloves. "I just mean if you're not doing anything later…" Damn it, when did I become so pathetic! Recover, Sasuke. Salvage your pride! "Maybe you can help me plant some of those herbs you use in the balm you make. It might be useful to have some around."
Hinata clapped her hands excitedly. "I'd love to! There is a secret to how you plant them and how to take care of them." She tapped her chin. "But we'll need specific soil. Thankfully Ino's store carries it. Let's go there now before she closes."
"If it's too late, we can go tomorrow," he suggested. "I don't want to take advantage of you. Besides we look dirty."
"No!" She protested and pulled him along. "We have an hour and can get something to eat along the way. C'mon! You look fine, don't worry." Sasuke smiled and they walked side by side, uncaring of the looks they were receiving. Some wondered what the former heiress had in common with the last Uchiha.
Sasuke knew what he felt for her but knew it wasn't wise to voice his feelings; he wasn't the only one who had his eyes on her.
Naruto roughly patted Sasuke on the back after he came back from his solo A- rank mission. "I never thought I'd see you wear a Konoha headband again. How does it feel, ya bastard?"
"It feels good," he lied. Everything still felt foreign and out of place. However for his brother's sake, he'd try his hardest to restore the Uchiha name and honor. His clan had been vilified for far too long. "So how's everything going with you?"
"Great! Kakashi-sensei thinks I'll be ready for the day I take over," Naruto boasted. Sasuke smiled, if anyone deserved to live happily, it was his friend. "But that's still a long ways out. Right now all I can think about is the festival." Sasuke nodded. The anniversary of the end of the war would soon be upon them and he immediately thought about Hinata.
She was also on Naruto's mind as he unintentionally answered the question on his mind. "I'd love to go with Hinata-chan but Kiba mentioned they're going as a group."
"Ah." He tried not to look so relieved.
"Yeah." Sasuke missed the look Naruto gave him before walking away. "Well, see you later!"
Days later, Sasuke walked out of his home wearing his finest clothes. The Uchiha symbol was prominently displayed on across his back and he headed towards the center of the village. The festivities would start off with speeches and a reading of the names from the fallen leaf shinobi. Honoring the dead would take precedence over any festival games or entertainment.
Kakashi wasn't one for speeches but in the short speech, he managed to convey the loss they sustained as a community but also emphasized the peace that had come from it. "We cannot forget the tales of heroism from everyone who answered the call to fight for peace and survival or the ultimate sacrifice some made. The peace we enjoy now was not given without a heavy price. Remember their names, their stories. Honor them by defending this peace from anything that threatens it. But above all, live. Live and love your fellow man. Let go of any hatred and forgive. Life is too short to let darkness corrupt our souls. Live for them."
A round of applause and cheers erupted from the crowd. Shizune took the podium and began to read off the names of the leaf ninja that had given their lives in the war. Sasuke wasn't surprised that Obito's name wasn't called and didn't expect to hear Itachi's name. He was here as an Uchiha and a member of Konoha as well. He was surrounded by strangers but never felt part of the village until now.
Paper lanterns were handed out to those who wanted to light one in honor of a friend or relative and Sasuke accepted one. He held it in his hands and looked as families and groups of friends began to light theirs and lift them into the air. One by one, the floated into the sky as the sun was falling. His eyes scanned the crowd feeling a bit lost despite the feeling of belonging not too long ago. Hinata's father and sister had just let go of theirs before walking towards the booths and liveliness of the festival.
It was then that he noticed Hinata was with Team Gai. The wheelchair bound sensei was wiping his tears as Tenten patted his shoulder. "You are still my eternal rival!" Lee shouted as he pointed to the lantern bearing Neji's name. "But you are also my best friend!"
Hinata hugged them and watched as they headed to join everyone else. He saw her ask for another lantern and move to a more secluded spot. Deciding to follow, Sasuke found himself in a large clearing where the trees provided privacy. He hung back and observed.
"I vowed to fulfill my promise to change the separation between the branches. I am so close to honoring your memory." She sniffed as she struggled to light the lantern. "It still hurts but I'm getting better. I'm trying for your sake, brother." Her eyes were watery and making it hard to focus. Overcome with sorrow, her hands began to shake. Suddenly a pair of hands reached out and steadied them. Hinata looked up to see Sasuke.
He blew a small flame and the lantern was lit up, illuminating their faces. It began to rise but Hinata didn't let go. Tears fell down her cheeks and he gently removed her hands, freeing the lantern to join the rest. The two silently watched it float away.
Sasuke tenderly wiped her tears away. "Remember, it's okay to cry."
Hinata nodded. "Sometimes it hurts here," she pointed to her heart. "But holding it in makes it worse." His hands cupped her face and he almost leaned in until she pointed to the ground. "Why don't I help you?"
Accepting her assistance, the lantern bearing the Uchiha symbol rose to the sky. Hinata bowed her head and said a small player for his family. The sounds of the festival soon reached their ears but neither made a step to move away. Sasuke was startled when she gingerly held his bandaged hand.
"How have you been?" she asked.
"Fine," he responded. "But shouldn't I be asking you that question?"
Hinata gave him a lopsided smile. "It's occurred to me that you worry a lot about my well-being yet I never really returned that kindness. You're never alone, Sasuke. You have Naruto-kun, Sakura-chan, Kakashi- sensei and me. If you ever want to talk, not just about me, I'm here for you. I want to help you. Please…let me help."
"Just be here with me." Hinata embraced him and they stood there. Her head rested on his chest and he hoped she wouldn't notice his heart beat faster. "Do you know why I decided to stay? I figured out what I want. I'm looking for happiness and peace of mind."
"I wish that for you, too," she mumbled. "I want to see you laugh and smile more. You deserve to be happy, too."
"But I don't know if it's possible." He swallowed thickly. "I want it so bad."
"You should just take what you want." Hinata looked up with sincerity. "Life's too short for regrets."
Sasuke leaned close causing Hinata to sharply inhale. "What if I'm scared?"
"Scared of what?" she whispered. Hinata removed her arms around him and rested them on his broad shoulders. "What scares you, Sasuke?"
"Not being good enough." His eyes lowered to her lips. "What would you do if I were to kiss you?"
"I don't know," Hinata answered. "But what if you regret it?"
Sasuke's eyes expressed his longing for her and he shook his head. "Never."
Without another word, he crashed his lips on hers. Hinata had to admit that she sometimes wondered about his lips and was surprised that his lips were soft. Sasuke rarely smiled, but she noticed he mostly did it when they were together. She slid her hands up from his shoulders to his scalp, caressing it.
He never realized how small she was until now, her body was so delicate and dainty pressed against his. Deeping the kiss made her grasped his shirt tightly. Sasuke couldn't get enough of her scent, her touch, her body and the soft whimpering of her voice. He pulled away with a little grin on his lips; pleased that he could make her so responsive.
Sasuke didn't want anyone else to touch her; Hinata so sweet, so soft, and his. Although he knew that Naruto was contemplating whether to voice his intentions to Hinata or not, he couldn't remain silent. Kakashi's words rang true; it was time to live. He couldn't wallow in despair, Sasuke wanted to get out from the shadows and into the light. He had to reach out and grab it.
Looking at her swollen lips and pale eyes, he wanted nothing more than for Hinata to come home with him, be the person who greets him after a mission and vice versa. But he knew he couldn't just expect her to accept it so quickly. Hinata didn't push him away but she still looked unsure about what to do next. He would have to be patient and so he will wait.
"Do you have to be with your team?" he asked. Sasuke began to kiss her again. "Because I was thinking that we could go by ourselves. Maybe even just stay here."
He felt Hinata smile against his lips. She pulled away. "I kind of promised them. Sorry."
"Screw them," he said. "Just give throw Kiba a ball and he'll be happy."
"Hey, asshole! Step away from Hinata-chan!"
Sasuke groaned as the rest of Team Eight walked towards them, well Shino did. Kiba stormed up to his face and snarled. "Down boy," he instructed.
"Is he messing with you, Hinata-chan?" Kiba asked. "Do you want me to castrate his perverted ass?"
"No!" she shouted. A faint blush appeared on her cheeks. "He wasn't doing anything wrong."
Kiba narrowed his eyes as they darted between a flustered Hinata and a smug Sasuke. "Are you sure? We can hide his body where no one would ever find him. Just give me the word." Akamaru circled around in anticipation. "Who can hide trash better than us?"
"I think it's pretty clear what she wants, Kiba," Shino said. He held up a small bag. "We brought you some sweets." She happily accepted it. "Let's get out there, shall we?"
Shino began to lead her towards the lights and sounds of the festival. Kiba sneered at Sasuke before running to catch up with his best friends. Unfortunately for him, Hinata stopped and motioned for Sasuke to join them. He stayed close beside her; every now and then their hands brushed against each other until she intertwined them together.
As the night wore on, Sasuke saw Naruto passing by. The future Hokage smiled knowing at him and for that he was grateful. "Sasuke! Wouldn't this look nice in your living room?" He returned his gaze to Hinata. They were at a booth selling art and pottery. Shino was inspecting a vase while Kiba groaned that he wanted to get some food.
She had pointed to a blue and gold tapestry with elaborate designs. "Do you like it?" he asked to which she nodded. "Then I'll get it." Although she insisted that he didn't have to buy it, he handed his money over. "Bring it by tomorrow morning," he told the happy vender.
"Hey, tell him you're hungry and dupe him into paying for us all," Kiba whispered. Hinata gave him a stern look. "C'mon, I'm starving!" Akamaru whined in agreement.
"Let's go," Sasuke sighed and wrapped an arm around Hinata's shoulder. "How much can they eat anyways?" She shrugged sheepishly.
Kiba's eyes gleamed with mischief as he debated which stand had the most appealing menu. "You'll see," Shino warned.
.
.
"Would you like to see your baby brother, Asami?" Sasuke asked his daughter. The dark haired girl with pigtails shook her head. "Why not? I thought you were excited to see him."
"I hate him," she pouted. "Mama likes him more. Everyone will like him more! But I hate him!"
Sasuke picked up the crying girl and walked away from the hospital room. He didn't want Hinata to hear Asami's tantrum. "Why would you ever think that? We love you the same."
"Kota said that when a new baby comes, mama and papa will get rid of Asami," she sobbed. "But I don't want to leave. I love you papa! I love mama too! Don't leave me!"
Sasuke scowled as he rocked her. He'd have a talk with Naruto's little monster later. The pintsized demon had a bad habit of picking on his daughter. "He's a liar. Don't believe him. I would never ever leave my princess. Who do you believe me or him?"
"You." Asami rubbed her eyes, pale like her mother's. "But if I stay and the baby stays, I'll have to share everything. And I don't want to. I like my toys."
Trying not to laugh, he sat her on his lap. "Yes, you will have to share some things. Remember when I told you things would change?" She nodded. "How you would have to be a big sister? Being an older sibling means more responsibility. You have to protect him. He's so small. What would happen if mama or papa isn't there?"
Her eyes widened with fear. "Where would you go, papa?"
"I'm not going anywhere," Sasuke corrected himself. "But I can't be everywhere either. What if a little troll like Kota bullies Kaoru? What if he makes him cry?"
"I'll beat him up!" Asami proclaimed with newfound determination. "Kota will be the one crying! I'll protect my baby brother!"
Sasuke smirked and kissed her forehead. "That's my girl. No one messes with my babies." She hopped off his lap and he held out his hand. "Ready to see him now?"
Asami nodded eagerly and ran to the room. Sasuke slowly opened the door and Asami peeked her head in. "Is that my little princess?" Hinata asked. She beckoned her to come closer and get a better look at the small bundle in her arms.
Sasuke picked her up and placed her next to Hinata. "Say hello to your little brother, Asami," he said. Kaoru's dark eyes stared at them and he felt his chest swell with pride at the sight of his family.
"He has purple hair like mama! But he's still kind of bald," Asami noted. "If Kota makes fun of Kaoru, I'll punch his nose." While she gently stroked his head, Hinata looked to Sasuke who shrugged innocently.
"He smiled!" Asami exclaimed. "Mama, Kaoru smiled at me!"
Turning back to her daughter, Hinata laughed. "He knows you're his big sister and loves you already."
Grinning at her parents, Asami puffed out her chest. "I like him, too."
As he watched his daughter interact with his son, Sasuke kissed Hinata's forehead. "I love you," he whispered.
"I love you, too."
Their serene bonding was interrupted by a slew of visitors. Kiba cooed over the newest member of the family while Shino presented Asami with a new doll knowing that the little girl could feel over looked. While Hanabi spoke with Hinata, Hiashi held his grandson and Sasuke saw him kiss the top of his head.
The only problem that arose was when Naruto and Kota came for a brief visit. Asami, who was playing with her doll, watched the little boy carefully as Naruto congratulated Hinata and Sasuke. The two fathers took the children out of the room when it was time for Hinata to feed Kaoru.
As the two adults conversed about boring village issues, Kota walked beside her with a glint in his eyes. "So where are you going to live now? You can live with us if you want."
"You're a liar. Papa said so," she said. "I think you're jealous because I have a brother and you don't."
"He's not that cute," Kota shot back. "He's ugly like you."
Sasuke and Naruto turned around when they heard Kota wail. Naruto leaned down and gently removed his hands from his face. "Let me get a look, buddy. It's okay. You're going to be okay," he assured his son.
Sasuke felt someone tug on his pant leg and he looked down. Asami gave him thumbs up and smiled. "I protected Kaoru, papa! I punched him like you told me."
Naruto gave him a look of disbelief. "Sasuke!"
He sighed and rubbed the bridge of his nose as he tried to smooth everything over. Asami wasn't helping matter as she began to taunt Kota with her tiny fists. "No one messes with my brother!" Even with Naruto's scolding look, he couldn't help but smile a bit. Sasuke only hoped that this wouldn't get back to his wife.
AN: Still working on the larger Sasuhina story, getting the pieces to fit and all. In the mean time I have a ghost or maybe reincarnation AU with Sasuhina and Hina/?. I hope to have it up before the end of this month.
Thanks for all the feedback and general support by just reading/following/ or favoring this compilation. I appreciate it!