Hard Love

Chapter 21

Premonition's

"Feelings could override facts, as facts could alter feelings. Choose the truth first, rather than following after feelings."

― Anthony Liccione

oOoOo

From previous Chapter...

Naruto laid beside her, his arms fully enclosed around her, pulling her closer to him as they both relaxed into each other's arms. Tomorrow they would see his parents and they both would sign the contract, but for now, they were both mentally exhausted from today's events and as long as they were together holding each other, they were happy for now, at least.

Hinata sighed in contentment, remembering the letter that her mother had written but decided she would read it tomorrow with Naruto-kun beside her. For now, she wanted to bask in this moment for as long as her eyes stayed open, smelling his scent and feeling his warm body pressed tightly against hers, feeling his breath upon her head and relaxing her body completely against his.

Her last thoughts before sleep took her was that for the first time since her mother died, she had finally felt true happiness and finally looked forward to the future with open arms.

oOoOo

The morning sun shone bright above the small gaps within the thick abundant clouds on a start to another winter's day. The maids were about doing their daily duties. Jiraiya was up, as was Minato, even after the late night they both had. Kushina was also awake, not getting much sleep, hoping that everything went well with her son and Hinata.

The red head had been busy in the kitchens, trying to keep herself busy although the cooks on duty could sense there was something wrong with the atmosphere when they began preparing the food. The smell of fresh filtered coffee was constantly being made to serve, as the residents of the estate began to awake and made themselves known.

Kakashi, Obito, Shisui and Itachi had eaten a quick breakfast and was now heading to Minato's office for their orders for the day. Each of them was deep in their own thoughts as Itachi knocked on the door to Minato's office. Itachi and the rest of them wasn't surprised to see Jiraiya, already sat down in the office. Minato opened the door fully to let each of them inside.

"I see you didn't sleep well" Obito questioned.

"Well after last night's events, it was kind of hard not to" Minato sighed, taking his seat behind his desk.

Minato took out another cigarette from his near empty packet, lighting it up as he took a long inhalation of nicotine, then exhaling the smoke from his mouth as he gathered his thoughts. Itachi wondered what else was on Minato's mind, especially calling all four of them in his office. His eyes glanced towards Jiraiya who was reading some papers that seemed important but pushed it to one side for the moment.

"What are your orders?" Shisui asked the elder blonde.

"I want you four to work together and see if you can gather as much information on Danzo and his group 'Root'. I understand that we have been looking for a while now, but I think we need to rethink things. Maybe we are looking in the wrong places and need to check out areas that we wouldn't consider looking into."

"Underneath the underneath?" Kakashi answered.

"Correct...Kakashi. Itachi, I agree to your proposal, I think we need all the help we can get on this matter, especially seeing as we don't know who else besides Danzo we are dealing with, and of course there is the matter of Lord third's New year's event" Minato continued.

"Do you think something will happen?" Obito asked

"I'm not ruling it out Obito...Whatever Danzo has planned, it doesn't bode well for Konoha" Minato answered.

"I want you four to wait until Shikaku arrives...I expect him to arrive shortly. Hopefully he will bring a light on where I want you to start looking."

"Oh...Where?" Itachi asked intrigued.

"The Hyuga clan"

"The Hyuga clan!?...But why there, Jiraiya san?" Shisui asked surprised.

"To gather more information on Tenseigan Industries and this supposed heir, Toneri" Minato answered.

"I have also instructed Shino to inform you with everything he has so far uncovered as well as myself and Jiraiya. The files that was on Hiashi Hyuga's computer has been hard to hack into, but so far it has revealed some important facts regarding Danzo and his step daughter Shion." Minato continued.

"Yes I still can't get over the fact that she is related to our sweet Hinata-chan" Obito stated.

"Talk about shock as an understatement" Shisui added.

"It was a shock to both Hinata and Naruto and I am expecting them when they come down. I know Hinata was very upset with the discovery of her half sister being Shion, but I don't want her to be treated any differently because of it" Minato warned towards the end.

"Minato I speak for all of us when I say this; We would never think that way about Hinata-chan. She is a sweet, caring and gentle girl and we have all grown attached to her and have come to care for her as if she is one of us." Kakashi stated passionately.

Minato and Jiraiya smiled at the young men standing before them and knew they had more people that would help them protect Hinata from the dangers that Danzo had planned.

oOoOo

Cigar smoke filled the dim lit office where Danzo listened to a report from one of the men he had working for him thanks to Orochimaru. The silver haired man had arrived only minutes ago, guided through the maze of halls by Sai who had met him at the entrance, bringing him to Danzo's smoke filled office to bring important news.

The man seemed nervous, Sai had never seen this man before and was hastily brought out of his thoughts when he felt his adoptive fathers killing intent.

"WHAT!? You mean to tell me that the girl was somehow out of the estate and was lost within the grounds!" Danzo hissed in rage.

"Y-Yes s-sir" The man nervously answered.

"So...Tell me why the hell didn't you grab her then and there? Don't I pay you enough!?" Danzo asked in anger.

"I-It wasn't that s-simple"

"Incompetent fool, so why was she conveniently lost and out of the mansion?"

"I-I don't know sir"

"You don't fucking know!? Don't you think you should of gathered more information before reporting to me first?!"

"..!.."

"Get out of my sight and don't come back here again...Make sure you do your job properly or else I will make you disappear altogether" Danzo warned as he pressed a button.

The man was shaking as the door opened seeing a large man grab his arm and pull the man out of his office closing the door behind him. Sai watched inwardly delighted as the man he hated with every fiber of his being rubbed his forehead in frustration.

"I am so close to having my dream come to fruition and I need that girl in my hands by the new year's event"

"Who was that? I haven't seen him before" Sai carefully questioned.

"Hmm.. his name escapes me, but he is a mole that works for that bastard Namikaze. Orochimaru recruited him. It didn't take much for him to be our informant apparently" Danzo conveniently answered.

"It seems that I must take drastic precautions after all" Danzo continued.

Sai kept his emotions in check as he watched the one eyed man pick up the phone then talk to the person on the other end that he gathered to be Orochimaru. Another man that made him internally shiver, he knew it took a lot to keep his normal expressionless mask and it would take a lot to hold back when the sound four made an appearance.

Danzo finished the call while Sai stood beside him, hoping that he would be dismissed until further needed. He had his own plans to attend to.

oOoOo

Naruto was content lying beside Hinata, enjoying having her arms wrapped around him as his was around her. Hinata sighed as she snuggled closer to him, which made him smile at how cute she was. Both of them had been awake for over an hour and both knew they should get up soon, but they just wanted to take some more time to themselves and their new relationship.

"I think we had better get up now, hime" Naruto whispered softly

Hinata nodded as she removed her arms reluctantly around his waist. Naruto however, pulled her closer, causing her to let out a gasp of surprise, which gave him the perfect opportunity to seal his lips with hers into a passionate kiss. Hinata felt her heart soar as she kissed him back just as much and grew sad when they parted for air. Naruto gazed at her with his beautiful deep blue eyes that held so much love for her that reassured Hinata this was right. He was right.

Naruto put a t-shirt on, lending Hinata one as they left his room. He then walked Hinata the short distance to her room, where she quickly changed into something more comfortable. Hinata was suddenly feeling apprehensive as they left her room and walked down the long hallway towards the stairs. Naruto, sensing her nerves, held her hand within his, giving it a gentle squeeze, reassuring her.

They both walked down the elegant staircase holding each other's hands, feeling comforted and drawing strength from each other. They both looked at each other, each deciding that breakfast can wait even though they were hungry, but they needed to talk to Minato first to discuss a few things they had both decided on.

"You ready hime?" Naruto asked softly

Hinata smiled softly at him, squeezing his hand with hers for reassurance as they both made their way to Minato's closed office door, both of them knew he was inside. Naruto knocked upon the door and was surprised to see Kakashi's face who had opened it.

"Kakashi?" Naruto asked surprised

"Oh...hey there you two we were...um...we was just leaving...I take it you need to talk to your father huh?"

"Yes we do" Naruto stated calmly

Kakashi gave his famous eye smile as they both entered inside the now crowded office, noticing Jiraiya and Shikaku, who must of just arrived, speaking with Obito, Shisui, Itachi and Kakashi.

"Ahhh good morning you two. I trust you managed to talk things over?" Jiraiya asked with a grin that Naruto knew all too well.

"Yes we did and we are here to discuss more of the contract and other things" Naruto calmly replied as Hinata nodded.

Kakashi could see the look in Minato's eyes as Shikaku took them aside whispering what he wanted them to do. Naruto and Hinata waited patiently until they were done as Minato called for one of the maids to bring some food and drink into his study for everyone and to also send word to Kushina to come and join them for what would be discussed, knowing his wife had been too anxious to sleep and had been trying to keep busy all morning.

Itachi sighed as he dragged Shisui out as Kakashi did the same with Obito, who wanted to stay and find out about this so called matter for juicy details that was racing through their minds. Minato sighed in relief as Shikaku and Jiraiya chuckled amongst themselves. Naruto and Hinata each portrayed red hinted cheeks as they kept holding each other's hands as they took a seat side by side.

The door once more opened showing Kushina, whose face showed how tired and stressed she had been. She felt relieved upon seeing them both, but didn't say too much as she calmly walked over to her husband and took her seat beside him.

"The maids will be here shortly with some breakfast for everyone." Kushina announced knowing everyone must be hungry.

"That's good to know Kushina-chan" Minato answered warmly.

Minato sighed as he turned his attention to his son and Hinata who sat opposite of him, both composed and holding hands which made him smile softly at them.

"Well now...I trust you have both talked about what was discussed here last night?" Minato calmly asked

"Yes we both did, we are here to discuss the matter of the betrothal contract father" Naruto stated.

"Very well, and may I ask what both of you have decided"

"We have both decided that we would like to follow the contract and be married as soon as possible." Naruto answered.

Kushina was over the moon at their answer, but kept her calm as she just smiled. Although she really just wanted to hug them both tightly against her, dreaming of the many babies that they would have upon their union.

"Very well...Shikaku, if you would" Minato ordered.

Shikaku nodded as he gathered the document placing it fully in front of the young couple. Both of them glanced at the contract and the contents upon it. Shikaku had handed Naruto his pen from his pocket as he pointed to where their signatures would be required.

Naruto took the pen and carefully listened to what Shikaku was stating. He nodded throughout in understanding as he signed his signature on the dotted lines that required it. Once done, Naruto glanced at Hinata, giving her a warm smile as he gave her the pen so that she could also sign.

Hinata carefully took the pen, a slight tremble in her hand, but took a deep calming breath and listened intently to Shikaku as he guided her on where to sign. Hinata signed her name and it was finally done, as both Minato and Kushina smiled once completed.

"Well congratulations are in order" Jiraiya stated merrily

"Yes, congratulations. I will take this to the solicitors shortly Minato and I will call once it has been officially verified." Shikaku announced

"How long will it take Shikaku?" Naruto asked

"It should be done today Naruto...All signatures and witnesses are verified, and all it needs is an official stamp and it's done. In fact, as you have signed this legal document, you're both now legally married." Shikaku explained

Hinata and Naruto blushed slightly, but smiled at the news as their hands was still joined together. Kushina had tears of happiness falling down her cheeks and couldn't be more happy that they were now both together.

"Would you like a ceremony you two?" Jiraiya asked

Both blinked at the question as they looked at one another, even though they were now technically married, was there a need for it? Hinata was content and was not one to put on a show after living most of her life alone indoors.

"I w-would like a small ceremony w-with just a small g-gathering of our family and close f-friends, but it's not a n-necessity" Hinata answered.

"Whatever you want hime, just say" Naruto assured

"Well seeing as you are now both married I don't see why you don't celebrate your union, but just for now keep it quiet, only tell those most trusted until we find out answers" Minato informed.

"As long as I'm with Hinata-chan I couldn't be happier father, but I want to be kept informed about everything and anything if it is related in regards to my wife. I will only tell my brother and best friend the rest I will tell when its safe" Naruto stated calmly.

"I-I just want to be with N-Naruto-kun too, and I just want to tell Karin-chan, Temari-chan and Ino-chan" Hinata replied.

"Very well, make sure it's done quietly, although I am sure we are safe, I won't be reassured until I have Danzo's head and any other bastard that sides with him" Minato growled.

A knock on the door halted further conversation as Kushina opened it seeing three maids with trolleys filled with delicious hot foods and drinks.

"Ahhh thank you ladies, please thank the cooks for an amazing job as always" Kushina announced with a warm smile.

Each of the maids nodded and smiled back as they turned and left the room to carry on with their duties. Kushina as well as Hinata dished the foods on the plates and handing it over to everyone.

Shikaku ate his quickly and got ready to leave, Jiraiya decided to accompany him as he had an appointment to see his old sensei and to also talk to him about a few things and see if he could also uncover any potential information regarding the upcoming event.

Hinata and Naruto ate their breakfast together as they talked casually to both Minato and Kushina deciding that they would remain indoors and just enjoy their first day of married life together.

oOoOo

Ino yawned as she had left the bathroom, her neck and shoulders full of love bites thanks to her boyfriend who had ambushed her in the shower. Her body subconsciously shivered at the memory of what took place moments ago. Listening to his husky voice talking sweet but naughty things into her ears made her putty in his hands as her blush intensified at what he did to her.

A few minutes later, Sasuke came out a towel around his waist showing his toned chest and gorgeous features. He still had a seductive smile present on his face as he hugged Ino from behind.

"I see you enjoyed yourself" He whispered.

"So did you Sasuke-kun" Ino replied

Sasuke chuckled as he tightened the hug, Ino smiled as she softly caressed his arm. She still had Naruto and Hinata in her mind and hoped that they managed to talk to each other last night.

"We had better get dressed, I'm starving" Sasuke stated as he let Ino go heading towards his wardrobe. Ino nodded as she sat on the bed changing into some spare clothes she left in his room.

"D-Do you think they will be there this morning Sasuke-kun?" Ino asked remembering what took place last night.

"Knowing the dobe, I know he would of finally realised how important she is to him. I mean you saw how he acted when he arrived, taking her quickly into his arms." Sasuke replied putting a shirt on.

"Yes i know I saw it too, I never thought I would see Naruto look like that again."

"Me neither...However, I'm just thankful he is returning back to the Naruto we all care for" Sasuke stated softly.

"I think Hinata-chan is his soul mate Sasuke-kun."

"I think she is too...Like you are mine"

Ino blushed hard but smiled as she finished the final touches to her hair. Both of them were dressed and ready to head downstairs, both feeling hungry and curious to what the day ahead would bring. Mostly their inner thoughts was on the same thing, their close friends Naruto and Hinata.

oOoOo

"So then...What will you two be doing for the rest of the day?" Minato asked

"We just want to spend time together and relax" Naruto replied casually with Hinata nodding her head in agreement.

"I understand...Go and enjoy yourselves. Just keep me informed if you decide to leave the estate."

"We will be staying in today...just let us know when Shikaku arrives and it's marked official" Naruto stated standing up, holding Hinata's hand firmly within his own.

"I will notify you once he returns with the news" Minato replied

Kushina stood up with a huge smile on her face as she hugged Hinata tightly and then hugged her son.

"I'm so happy for both of you" Kushina stated with unshed tears.

Hinata smiled at both her new in laws feeling relaxed and overwhelmingly happy. Naruto squeezed her hand gently as they left the room hand in hand with both Minato and Kushina looking on.

oOoOo

They walked towards the dining hall to see who was around, the blonde saw his best friend Sasuke who had just sat down beside Ino. They looked to be just starting to eat their breakfast. Shikamaru was also present, sitting opposite of them drinking coffee along Gaara and his two siblings.

Naruto had gathered that Ino and Shikamaru must of stayed the night. A lot had happened since the night before and by the looks on each of their faces they appeared relieved that he was still with Hinata.

"Morning guys" Naruto greeted.

"M-Morning" Hinata stated slightly nervous

"Well, have you made up or what?" Shikamaru asked looking at their joined hands.

"Yeah we are now officially together" Naruto stated sheepishly.

Everyone smiled as Ino and Temari squealed, causing the guys to flinch. Ino had immediately stood up and ran over to the bluenette, wrapping her arms around her and hugging her close. Naruto couldn't help but to smile, seeing the woman he loved look on happy at Ino who was smiling warmly back at her.

"So dobe, you finally told her" Sasuke stated breaking him from his thoughts.

"Yeah...We both did" Naruto answered.

Naruto took a seat, helping himself to some orange juice, glancing at the girls who were still talking. He waited for their talk to finish, catching Hinata glance at him.

"Hey girls can you come and take a seat for a moment, Hinata-chan and I have something we want to tell you all." Naruto stated calmly.

Ino and Temari looked over at him curious, and immediately took their seats as Hinata took a seat next to Naruto. Everyone was either eating or looking on at the blonde curiously.

"Gaara can you close and lock the doors for me" Naruto stated.

Gaara nodded and closed the double doors to the dining hall that was always left open, the red head locked it securely as everyone had now stopped eating looking on curiously at the blonde and bluenette.

"What's wrong Naruto?" Shikamaru asked who had been silent, yet was growing very curious.

"Thank you Gaara...To answer your question Shika, Hinata-chan and I have something to tell you all" Naruto replied.

"Well...What is it?" Ino asked.

"Well...My parents had told us both of a betrothal contract, set up by Hinata-chan's mother between myself and Hinata."

Everyone blinked at the news taking his words fully in.

"After what had happened last night Hinata-chan and I had a long talk about our feelings in general. I confessed to her how I felt as she did to me. We both decided to go with the betrothal contract and have both signed it, your father Shika has took it to be officially processed."

"W-Wait...Your married now!?" Ino asked shocked.

"Y-Yes Ino-chan we both signed the contract." Hinata answered.

"Wow...Congratulations dobe...Hinata-chan" Sasuke stated with a smirk.

"Congratulations both of you...I take it you're going to keep it quiet from the others for now?" Shikamaru queried towards the end

Naruto nodded and began to explain.

"The only ones that know are my parents, Jiraiya, Shikaku, and you in this room. Hinata-chan wants to tell Karin and that will be the only ones we will tell until such a time as we feel safe to do so"

"Do you think there are spies working here?" Sasuke asked

"I think my father does. It wouldn't be hard for outside sources trying to get information on those working for my father ya know" Naruto answered.

"What about my brother, surely you don't suspect him and my cousins...What about Kakashi?" Sasuke retorted

"No of course not...I expect my father will tell them...Besides I think they are out on orders for my father, we saw them all leave together Kakashi, your brother and cousins." Naruto defended.

"So you're going to keep Choji, Kiba and Shino in the dark?"

"No...I will probably tell them, but not immediately. I wanted to tell those that I'm close to, namely you lot. Teme you, Gaara, Kankuro, and Temari as you live here as well as Sasuke and Karin. You are family and I trust you all, I know you each have my back as well as Hinata's."

"I understand...we will keep the news to ourselves, until told otherwise." Shikamaru stated.

"Thanks guys"

"Well then...What are your plans for today?" Ino asked.

"Well we have decided to spend the day to ourselves and relax, but we could have fun later on here if your all up to it?"

"Sure...Ino-chan can stay again with me tonight" Sasuke stated with a slight smirk, Ino began to blush.

"Yes and Shikamaru will stay again tonight too, he has enough clothes left here to stay a few more days with me...Right Shika?" Temari questioned.

Shikamaru shrugged his shoulders not needing to see his girlfriend staring holes onto his back, and knew he had already had the choice decided for him, causing the lazy Nara to sigh.

"Troublesome blondes"

"What was that Shika?!" Temari questioned.

Gaara and Kankuro laughed, feeling amused to their elder sisters relationship to Shikamaru.

"That's great then guys...we will leave you to your breakfast. We had ours with my parents." Naruto announced with a happy grin.

"What are you going to do now?" Kankuro asked.

"Well I did say that me and Hinata-chan wanted to relax and spend time with each other...So that's what we will be doing until later. So I will meet you guys at dinner, remember not a word to anyone at what was discussed here, alright?"

Everyone nodded as Naruto headed towards the locked doors, unlocking it then opening them wide like they usually always were. Naruto held Hinata's hand within his and left the room as the others sat watching them leave taking in everything that had been discussed.

"Well looks like another lazy day ahead, maybe I will go cloud watching" Shikamaru stated.

"No you can spend more time with me" Temari retorted.

Shikamaru sighed again his inner thoughts had just one word

'…Troublesome'

oOoOo

Leaving the premises was always a much welcomed relief to Sai. He had finally been dismissed by his stepfather until later this evening. He would have to control himself as he was certain Orochimaru was finally making his appearance as well as his men. The thought of seeing them again made his blood boil, especially the members of sound four after what they had done to Sakura.

He blamed Shion the most. He couldn't stand to be around the hardened bitch. He took consolation of the fact that she was now getting what she deserved with her so called husband Toneri. Another sick individual Sai had heard many rumours surrounding the guy and his personal exploits with female servants. Breaking from his thoughts, he made his way back to his apartment, he was comforted that he had taken Sakura out of Konoha altogether.

He had to make sure she was safe. It was the least he could do for her, seeing that his adoptive family had manipulated and used her for their own objectives. Even Sakura's parents had disappeared courtesy to Shion and Danzo, making sure that everything that could lead to them conveniently vanished. Sai had managed to protect Sakura so far, but for how much longer? It prompted him to take her out of Konoha to a location only he knew existed and to a small group he trusted to watch her.

To his so called family Sakura was eagerly sought out from the group by Shion, the pinkette was nothing but a pawn, a desired piece on a shogi board and had already been used to play the dangerous game of strategy with only their wits and brains. That's all each of them was to his stepfather, pawns, he himself included amongst the shogi pieces ready and waiting for the next dangerous game ahead about to be played.

Sai however, had his own game to play, his was to counter the man he hated to his very core. He had endured years of manipulation and outright fear to the man that was supposed to be a father, but was only a father by name on a piece of plain paper, nothing more nothing less. Even Shion was nothing more than a superficial pawn piece to cement the plans Danzo wanted, except Shion couldn't see that.

Shion was so blinded by her rage that she couldn't read in between the lines, a perfect puppet for Danzo to manipulate from the shadows. He kept her close knowing she was still needed for his important plans at hand, making her believe somewhat that she was important to him. However, she wasn't to Danzo. She was the result of an affair between his wife and the Hyuga clan leader Hiashi, a bastard child born out of wedlock. When he had heard of this he had wondered why she wasn't disposed of by the one eyed man.

His wife, Shion's mother was terrified of Danzo, she died a few years after Shion was born. She died a shell of her former self. Sai then surmised that Danzo then had hands on fully manipulating her to how he wanted her, Sai knew deep down that Danzo never loved or cared for anyone apart from his plans for power and himself no matter how much he destroyed people's lives along the way.

Sai had decided to bide his time, gathering his wits and resources to counter the man named Danzo. Now it was time to put his carefully sought out plans into action. Sai had arrived at his apartment, quickly heading inside to wash and change. He only had a few hours free time before he had to return back to his stepfather. He had to make sure that Danzo didn't suspect him, keeping his emotions in check constantly when beside the man was difficult, even he himself had trouble sleeping at night by what he had witnessed throughout the years.

Having finished his shower and changing himself he looked at his reflection in the mirror, seeing his extremely pale features and dark eyes staring back at him. He had wondered about his life before he was brought into Danzo's hands but knew that anything before his time with Danzo and root were long forgotten in the recesses of his mind. He knew there was a meeting tonight, and he expected that the players of the fame would finally come into play and make themselves known. Including the sleep in partner who was breathing down Danzo's neck for the Hyuga girl to be delivered into their hands.

As of yet Sai was none the wiser to whom they were, even Danzo hadn't told him who they were, only he himself knew and possibly Shion and Toneri. But then again Sai was certain they didn't know the full facts on the matter. Shaking out of his thoughts Sai took a box out of the top of his wardrobe. The box itself was a cell phone box, one he had brought a few days ago.

Carefully taking it out of the box, checking it over seeing that the phone was fully charged he made his way out of his apartment and decided to take his motorcycle. Time was not on his side and now he had to make contact with someone he could relay information too and just hoped that the number he had found out was correct and hoped that he could convince him to meet him in a secure, and safe environment.

oOoOo

Kakashi had led the way upon their arrival, the large estate grounds was a far cry from the other estate that they had visited which belonged to Hiashi. Although the Hyuga grounds was lavish that cried out wealth to the visitors that was graced admittance inside. It wasn't as cold and quiet as it was at the previous estate, it felt more warmer and welcoming even if the Hyuga themselves were stuck up individuals.

The only exception was the new leader of the clan, Hizashi Hyuga, Hiashi's twin younger brother, who had arrived to meet them immediately upon their arrival. They were shown into a quiet room where an elder man and a much younger man awaited them. The small group had been introduced to the ex-clan leader Hiroshi, Hinata's grandfather and also Hizashi's only son Neji, Hinata's cousin.

They had already been told of their arrival and was discussing what and where to look for further information. The side of the room had a few boxes, around ten in total. According to Hiroshi, it was paperwork and files from each of the advisors that worked under Hiashi since he was married until recently. Everyone was hoping that there would be information to go on regarding anything that could have been discussed regarding Hinata.

Neji was eager to help and was also hoping to meet with his cousin Hinata again, Itachi could only state that he would have to discuss the situation with Minato.

The day had dragged on as each of them got to work going through files, selecting the most interesting ones to take back and to pass on to Shikaku who was at hand to look through them when needed as well as the share information with Shino and the Aburame clan. Shisui also had asked for any other contacts that Hiashi may of had outside of the clan that could be of interest to them.

"Hey Itachi..." Kakashi called out.

"What?"

"What was Minato talking about regarding you to contact them and you had his permission?"

"Oh...I asked Minato the other day if I could bring my friends in to help source information"

"Huh...You don't mean the wild bunch you hang out with Itachi!?" Shisui stated

"Wh?...Wait those guys?!" Obito queried.

"Yes...they call themselves the Akatsuki now. Pein leads them" Itachi answered calmly.

"Why would you want to bring those guys in?" Kakashi asked astounded.

Itachi sighed as he took a seat, rubbing his neck after having been head bent down looking through papers in the files and began to explain.

"Look...No matter how you may find them, they are my good friends ok. I trust each of them and they have been keeping in touch with me since the death of our family. Kisame was one of my best friends through high school he saw my mother as an aunt, as she treated him no different from how he looked. When he found out about their deaths, he vowed to do anything to help find who did it." Itachi explained.

"I see...isn't one of them related to Temari, Kankuro and Gaara?" Obito asked

"Yeah...Sasori is their elder cousin, he is estranged from his family and left Suna as soon as he could." Itachi answered.

"So you're bringing them into it?" Obito asked.

"Regardless what you may think of them they each have their ways to gather information on people. I feel they could be a big help in what Danzo's big plans are, especially regarding Hinata and who Danzo is associating with." Itachi replied calmly.

"It's not any of our call to make Itachi and I expect Minato had given some thought to your suggestion. No matter what we need all the help we can get to solve these riddles."

"My point exactly. That's why I contacted Kisame with the news as we left home this morning. Kisame told me he would contact me back later"

Everyone remained silent as they each carried on with their jobs at hand. Itachi stood up to resume what he was doing before until he felt his trouser pocket vibrate. Taking his cell phone out he glanced at the caller ID seeing that it was an unknown number. He debated whether to answer the call or not, but something within him convinced him to do so.

"Hello?"

"Is this Uchiha Itachi?" The male voice asked calmly on the other end.

Itachi blinked trying to recognise the male voice in the other end.

"Yes it is...Who is this?

oOoOo

Naruto had guided Hinata back to his room, wanting to spend every second with her alone. As soon as he closed his door he gathered her in his arms, holding her close to him, smelling the sweet smell from her long indigo lock courtesy of her shampoo.

He loved her scent, it calmed him greatly.

Last night, the thought of her leaving him and never seeing her smiling face again disturbed him greatly. He was relieved she was now back safely where he could see and protect her. The thought of losing her frightened him, especially now that he had told her exactly how he felt for her and she had told him how she felt for him. They had spoken all night talking about what they both wanted.

The betrothal contract was a shock to both when they had heard about it, but they couldn't deny how it made them feel, they were happy to know of it. Both of them had decided to agree to it, Naruto knew that he couldn't imagine anyone else in his life to be his wife other than Hinata. For the first time in a long time he could look forward to a future, a bright and happy future with her, his Hinata-chan.

A future where not only would he be happy, but so would she, both of them happy together.

Hinata sighed in contentment, looking up at the deep blue eyes staring down at her pale lilac ones. A warm gentle smile graced her lips, and he realised that it was solely for him. He saw all the love within them and how happy and warm it made him to see it. Never again did he want to see those eyes dripping wet with tears and her face full of sadness it would hurt him too much to see it again.

There was no lies, no deceit in her eyes, it was innocent and pure something that reassured him from all the hurt the years before. He couldn't help himself but to lower his face closer to hers and touch her lips with his. The kiss was slow and gentle, yet so badly needed by both of them.

Hinata felt her heart soar even more as well as the instant sensations throughout her body feeling his soft lips against hers, fully immersing herself with him into the kiss. She parted her lips relishing the feel of his tongue gliding across her bottom lip, making her shiver.

The kiss lasted longer until they both broke apart for much needed air to breathe. Both of them laughed softly as they once again led besides each other hugging one another, just enjoying each other's company.

"Have you thought much about reading the letter from your mother?" Naruto asked curious.

"I-I was going to open it and read it with you beside me" Hinata answered.

"Hey...I will be beside you always hime...I promise you that, I love you" Naruto stated sincerely, making Hinata smile widely.

"I know Naruto-kun...I love you too" Hinata replied.

Naruto kissed her forehead gently as she sat up and retrieved the letter she had left upon the opposite bedside unit. Hinata picked it up gently with a slight tremble, feeling a rollercoaster of emotions within her knowing that inside was her mother's own thoughts and words that she wanted to tell her, but had been too young at the time.

Naruto sat up and crawled to the other side of the bed and sat down looking at her, watching her intently as she stood staring at the letter in her hand. He could see how nervous she was by the trembling of the sealed letter in her hand, which held Hinata's gaze.

"Hime?" Naruto called softly.

Hinata jumped slightly at the sound of Naruto's voice and looked at him, he stood up and took two steps, standing behind her holding her waist pulling her close. Hinata felt immediately comforted as her back hit his warm hard chest the sealed letter still in her hand with her name written neatly in her mother's writing.

"Shall I open it, hime?"

"N-No, I will d-do it" Hinata answered him.

Hinata took in a deep breath of air, feeling that she had forgot to breathe, then letting it out, to calm the nervousness she held within her. With still shaking hands she carefully opened the letter, not wanting to damage what would be her mother's last words to her.

As the letter was carefully opened up, she could clearly see how perfectly neat her mother's writing was upon it. The bluenette felt so emotional as her eyes began to fill with unshed tears she shakily handed the blonde the letter, suddenly too frightened to read what was written upon it.

"Hime?"

"P-Please Naruto-kun...p-please, can y-you read it to me?"

Naruto nodded, swallowing thickly seeing the emotion within her eyes. He could suddenly understand how much this meant to her, even though he still had both his parents, Hinata had no one left who wanted her, he was now her family and he would protect her with his own life to keep her safe and happy.

Naruto guided her back to the bed where she obediently sat down, as he sat down next to her and began to read out the letter in full to her.

To my dearest Hinata...

I hope that you are now safe and happy while your reading this letter. I do so wish that I was in better health to continue to watch you grow up and protect you. However, I was told that my illness hasn't improved, but has instead gotten worse, so I decided to put in measures secretly under your father's nose.

Your father and I was never in love with one another, he didn't love me as I didn't love him, but there was someone else he did fall in love with, that I am certain he is still secretly seeing. I so much wanted to leave these cold white walls with you and escape this prison called home. It has never been so much of a home, being constantly watched by your father's servants and aides. He lives in fear that I will leave him, and I very nearly did one day, but he prevented me from doing so with you.

My only weakness was you Hinata, your so called father knew that and used it to his advantage. My only worry is you, my daughter, for when I finally leave this world.

I will continue to watch over you and I hope that one day my close friends will find you and rescue you from him and give you the life I wanted so much to give you. You see I had two very close friends, more like sisters. Kushina Uzumaki-Namikaze and Mikoto Uchiha. We were always together. Since I married Hiashi, he and his aides have kept me away from them. If they knew what was going on, they would be tearing down the estate to rescue us right now.

Hinata, I have made sure that my will and money has been placed somewhere safe for you and you when you come of age. I have also sent strict instructions along with a contract that I decided upon when you were born. My friends have son's, Mikoto has Itachi Uchiha her eldest that I held once and I also learnt that she had another son Sasuke Uchiha. Kushina also was expecting and in the same year in October gave birth to a healthy baby boy named Naruto.

When you were born it was the happiest day of my life and I remembered saying to Kushina one day how wonderful it would be if our children got together and fell in love. I am so certain of it Hinata, that you and Naruto will be together, so please don't hate me when you discover the betrothal contract. I made sure one was prepared and it is safe for you to find when your older. I want Kushina and her husband Minato to look after you upon my death and show you the love and happiness that your father can not and will not give you

Remember that I will always love you, and I will continue to watch over you until I meet you again but that won't be for a very long time. Please live your life to the fullest Hinata, you are the most precious of all my treasures.

With love,

Hitomi Hyuga

Tears and sobs escaped from Hinata as Naruto finished reading. He quickly placed the letter away, and carefully pulled Hinata into his chest as he stroked her back soothingly

"I wish I had met your mother hime. I know that she loves you and is watching over us right now" Naruto whispered.

He felt Hinata nod her head in his chest as he soothed her tears and let her cry her sadness away, inwardly reassuring his godmother that his family had finally found her, and would continue to protect her always.

oOoOo

A/N:- Hello to everyone that is following this story and sorry for the long delay in updating. I know this has been quite the delay in updating this story. However, I have been suffering writers block! I know what I want with the story and how it will finish, but it's actually getting it down just right. I actually had half this chapter written for ages, but I struggled with how I wanted it to finish.

I know I will have some happy readers with an update, however please don't expect another quick update to this story. I will be taking my time writing out the remaining chapters to this story amongst writing my other ongoing ones. Firstly I want to thank my beta and friend gio08 who always takes time out of his schedule and life to over look chapters to this story thank you my friend i appreciate everything you do. I also wish to thank everyone of my readers that has been patient for an update to Hard Love too.

Thank you I hope you enjoyed?

Also I want to dedicate this chapter to those over in the USA that have, or are currently going through hurricane Irma, my thoughts and prayers are with you all, stay safe!

Till next chapter x