"I wasn't even sure why I was upset, I knew it was going to happen eventually."
Tenten held Neji's hand as they walked together through a department store, Sasuke and Hinata just behind them, also holding hands, though they ultimately remained silent. It was a little awkward for all of them, but slowly growing accustomed to the new change. She came over a couple hours after Neji left her place so they could make a gift registry for the shower and wedding. Tenten wanted Hinata along so Neji dragged Sasuke along as well. Neji was explaining what happened this morning to Tenten as they started browsing through different items. He completely ignored his blushing cousin and the fierce scowl coming from the Uchiha, and continued on. She finally interrupted him by asking, "How did you know that it would happen?"
Hinata softly and silently groaned to herself.
"Hn." Sasuke squeezed her hand tighter, turning his glare to Tenten.
"I could just tell…"
"Please stop talking as if we aren't here," she asked.
Neji and Tenten both turned and smirked at her.
"We still have to talk about things, so don't assume." Sasuke grunted out.
Hinata looked up at him, "R-right." then she whispered, "There is so much to consider."
He glanced down at her just as she was looking away, so she was unsure. All the more reason they needed to talk, get it out in the open and then decide if it was something they wanted. He realized though, that it was nice that he at least had the freedom to even partake in a relationship with someone. Before, when his mission from the Hokage was still in tact, there was no way he could allow himself a close connection with anyone. Even though, he doubted he would even want a connection if it were anyone else but her. He stopped trying to figure out what it was about her, just took it that it felt good and it felt right to hold her. To kiss her and touch her, just to be around her and talk with her. But she was unsure, which made him unsure and brought out his own second and third guesses.
Neji saw the expressions on both of their features. One wrong push in a negative direction, and anything they have, or could have between them would deteriorate. Knowing both of them quite well, he mentally made his assessments as Tenten scanned some dishes that she liked.
Hinata was afraid of what could happen between them, also afraid that since he was a shinobi she would tell him goodbye one day and never see him again. The fact that she was now upon her residency in a few short months also meant that she wouldn't have time for anything else, he was sure that would be a factor in her mind.
As for Sasuke, he never knew the man could express emotion, other than anger and sarcasm. He was a deadly shinobi, one of Konoha's elite, like himself. Most shinobi knew to grab onto something special and hold onto it for as long as they could. You never knew when it could all be taken away. But for the Uchiha, he especially knew, he knew what it was like to lose everything. So for him to show feelings for his cousin, his little Hinata, it was still mind boggling.
But Neji could see the pull, could understand the attraction. Hinata was a beautiful girl, no…woman now. She was a female who didn't realize her own beauty or worth, someone who was all innocence in their world of violence and death. Obviously Sasuke was attractive, his accumulated fan girls wherever he went indicated as much. He had them as well, but not to the extent and reach as the Uchiha. Didn't matter to him though, he had his Tenten.
"You need to talk, but you're still holding hands," Tenten pointed out, moving to look at silverware.
Hinata blushed, "I-I'm clumsy."
Neji saw Sasuke's quick smirk and he raised his brow at him. Sasuke shrugged a little and said, "It's true. She can't walk a straight line."
Hinata nodded, "H-he's only helping me so I don't f-fall."
Neji chuckled to himself, "And what about the other twenty years or so that you've walked without assistance?" he asked, ignoring Sasuke's glare. Neji had a feeling this could turn for the better.
She blushed darkly, naturally, and started to loosen her grip on him. Sasuke stopped walking and turned to look down at her, holding her hand tightly in his own, he leaned down to whisper in her ear, "Don't let go Hinata, unless you want me to carry you."
She was absolutely crimson, nearly the color of his sharingan by the time he pulled away, but she nodded and he gave her a soft smile that only she could see. He gave her one brief nod and they turned to move on, even taking the moment to take the lead in front of Neji and Tenten. Who were a little taken back by the by-play.
Neji was right, he was pretty sure that Sasuke was determined to not let anyone get to her, other than the Uchiha himself of course. He still wasn't sure about Sasuke having feelings for his cousin, and still didn't think anyone would ever measure up to his set expectations. Including his best friend, Sasuke Uchiha, no matter how good they would be for each other.
-SoH-
June fifth. Their baby was due to arrive on June fifth. Konohamaru's mother, Asura, just determined the expectant date. The the elder woman handed her a bottle of pre-natals with folic acid for her to start taking twice a day. She was getting along just fine with the Sarutobi clan, as they welcomed her with open arms. The Hokage himself patted her head and asked about her stay with Hiashi. She admitted to him that she deceived her father into believing she was now attending his university, and that should buy some time. She was to write letters to both her father and her sister and cousin every two weeks from 'college'. Everyone there also had to make and or finalize a will in case an assassination does succeed.
Since Hanabi never had one, she insisted that her sister's attorney handle the matter. The Hokage issued his son Asuma to get in contact and be the go-between for Kurenai and Hanabi. There was no way they could allow someone to know the location of their hide-out, in fact Hanabi didn't even know where they were. All she knew was that it was bright and sunny outside, and they were staying in a very large estate. They were allowed to only go outside during fifteen minute intervals twice a day. Anbu was posted discreetly throughout the landscape surrounding five miles of the location, she would see one every once in a while as she walked with Konohamaru or Asura outside. Her soon to be mother-in-law was really taking her in, she also said that she was scheduled to start training her sister Hinata during her residency, and hoped this would all be over with before the time came.
"It's true, I've never had an apprentice before, but the Leaf medical chief continues to praise her abilities."
Hanabi nodded, "My sister will make an excellent physician."
"She has the byakugan, correct? You do then as well, Hanabi?"
"Yes."
"It's a strong bloodline, there's a good chance that my grandchild will also have your gift."
Hanabi smiled and placed one palm over her flat stomach, "Nah, knowing my luck your grandchild will look and act just like its father."
Asura laughed lightly, her dark curly hair flowing over her shoulders, "He was a terror growing up, let me tell you."
Still smiling, Hanabi turned to the woman, "I hope our baby is just like him, either like him or my sister. Say, why don't you tell me one of those terrorizing stories about your son?"
"Oh, there are so many, but you do know Hanabi, that twins run in our family? I am a twin, and it usually skips a generation."
Hanabi stilled and blanched, going more pale than usual. Skips a generation? But…Konohamaru was an only child. So that means… "You mean I'm having twins!"
Laughing heartily, Asura patted her shoulder, "Could be, we won't know for a little bit yet. Now, let me tell you about one of the many times Konohamaru declared his grandfather as his rival and challenged him for the seat of Hokage…"
-SoH-
He was in a surly mood. There they all were laughing and having a grand ole time, while he sat there trying to ignore them all. Stupid mall, stupid Tenten for claiming she was hungry. At her request, they went to the food court. That was where they first ran into some of the men on their squads, Kiba, Shino, and Naruto. Then, Tenten went to the restroom, taking Hinata with her, and when they came back, who else should join them but Sakura and Ino.
Just freaking great.
Now he had the two noddies ogling him like it was doomsday and he was their last meal. He was this close to just grabbing Hinata and walking out of there. They could hail a taxi home if need be, but no, she was happily chatting away with her friends.
"Hey bastard, haven't seen you around lately, how ya been?" Naruto asked coming to sit near the clearly aggravated anbu captain.
"Hn, Idiot, I just saw you…unfortunately."
"Ah! Just as grumpy as ever!" Naruto decreed in his all too cheerful voice.
Hinata looked in their direction, and Sasuke caught her eyes. Not realizing that Naruto noticed this.
The blonde leaned in and whispered rather loudly in his ear, "I think pretty girl likes you! OW! You didn't have to hit me!"
"Are you okay Naruto?" Hinata asked, walking towards them and sitting down between them, ever conscious of injuries. Sakura and Ino noticed as well, but were too busy enthusing a new store to Tenten.
"Huh? Oh yeah, I'm just fine Hinata, thanks. So uh…you and Sasuke?" he asked with wriggling brows.
"Wha?" she blushed, "Wh-what do you mean?"
"He's asking if we're together." Sasuke asked point blank, keeping his face passive.
"Oh…well, I…" she looked at him with confusion before gulping, just as he looked at her to see how she would respond, "um…that is, I…"
"Hn. I was going to ask her out dumbass, you just ruined it."
"OH! I'M SO SORRY HINATA! I didn't mean to ruin the surprise! I'll go so you two can talk!" Naruto finished with a wink at Sasuke, and then leaned down to whisper to him again. Quite loudly so that he was certain Hinata heard him as well, "She's hot, can you ask her to set me up with her friend? You know, Sakura? OKAY! BYE NOW!"
Hinata blinked, and then giggled, "He's…"
"…annoying, I know."
She tilted her head at him, "So. What were you going to ask?"
He smirked at her sudden boldness, he knew that came from him and that fact pleased him, "I did tell him I was going to ask you out, didn't I?" She blushed but nodded. He reached over and grabbed her hands, covering them with his own. Neither one was used to open affection, but neither really cared at the moment. He searched her eyes and then asked, "Well Hinata?"
Heart pounding in her ears, she whispered, "Yes Sasuke?"
He grinned and leaned towards her face, "Can I take you to dinner?" This was the first time he'd ever asked a girl out before. Ever. That must have been the reason why his heart rate accelerated and felt as though it might burst from his chest. He told himself it would be no big deal if she said no, but…
She smiled as her blush actually faded, "I w-would like that."
They stared at each other for a few seconds, before he placed his hand behind her neck and pulled her in for a quick kiss.
Yeah…a quick kiss.
He meant for it to be a quick kiss. That was before she let out a small moan, just as he followed with one of his own. He didn't think he would ever get tired of her against his mouth. He felt her hands move to his shoulders and then link together around his neck. He hadn't had many kisses before and only open-mouthed once and it was with the girl currently in his arms, but he never remembered it feeling this way as it does when his lips connected with hers. It was almost like something pulled at them when they touched, there was nothing but her. How could he let his feelings get so involved this early on? Or was this natural? Did this always happen when two people mutually kissed? This overwhelming sensation?
She gently pulled away from him and pulled him into a hug. He reciprocated by placing his large arms around her waist, resting his head on her shoulder, eyes still closed. No, he'd never been in a relationship. He knew she hadn't either. If this was just the beginning…they just really needed to sort this all out as soon as possible.
"Okay, whoa. That was totally hot."
Hinata gasped and stood up right away, she obviously forgot they weren't alone. Sasuke slowly stood up, glaring kunai at the blonde female version of Naruto (aka Ino) and pulled Hinata into another hug, tucking her head under his chin. Making it clear to everyone there, that she was his, all the while showing her that he was there for her. Why he was feeling so protective all of a sudden, or even territorial, he wasn't sure. He just wanted to make sure that they all knew she was off limits, and so was he. It wasn't like he didn't notice the longing look and blush from Sakura. He was a shinobi, he noticed everything. She pulled away from him, held his hand and faced her friends, he simply wanted it to be clear that he was not okay with people teasing her and interfering.
Sakura was blushing, while Neji and Tenten both had their brows raised. Ino was smiling beside Naruto, and they both had their thumbs up in their direction. Shino simply had his hands in his pockets while Kiba's mouth was open wide, to match his eyes. She swallowed nervously but smiled at them, as Sasuke placed an arm around her shoulders. His support helped her, she realized. This was so sudden though, it was hard to keep up the pace with him. Dinner, they would have dinner. It was going to be her first date!
"When did Captain Uchiha find himself a girlfriend? I didn't think there was a girl out there who would actually put up with his bad moods all the time. Well, besides a floozy." asked Kiba.
"Are you calling my cousin…a floozy?" Neji glared at his squad-mate.
"Hn. We'll meet up with you later." Sasuke interrupted, no longer willing to suffer around these morons.
"Hey! Where are you taking my maid of honor off to! I don't think so, no alone time for you right now, I need her with me."
Sasuke sighed as did Neji, Tenten didn't understand that he was just trying to get himself and Hinata away from these retards. "It won't take long," he assured and swiftly led Hinata away from the food court. He was certain that Neji would get his fiancé back on track. And away from the intruders. They saw enough of their squads while deployed, now was the time for family and personal life. Without Neji, Sasuke would probably be stuck with the idiot for the next year or so. Looking back at Hinata, he was glad that he at least got to meet her. To remind him there were good people to protect, innocent people to lay down his life for. He was loyal to Konoha regardless, but she was a fresh reminder of what Konoha stood to protect…its people.
He slowed down his pace and headed into a music store, he could still see the food court entrance, and this was a good spot to check for Neji and Tenten as they left.
"Thank you."
He glanced down at her for a second then back up again, "You're welcome." She looked really cute, her dark blue hair looked silky and soft to the touch, her hands clutched at her bosom and her cheeks lightly flushed. He had to keep looking away from her, they needed to talk before he could kiss her again. He needed to know they were on equal ground.
"Uchiha?"
He turned to see a tall blonde woman walking towards them, he recognized her immediately and saw her quick grin. He nodded once in recognition.
"I see you healed up nicely, and who's this?" she asked turning to the smaller dark haired girl currently holding hands with the Konoha anbu captain.
"This is Hinata, Hyuuga's cousin," he answered, ignoring the first part of her statement.
"Oh? Neji's cousin, is it? Not your girlfriend?" she purred.
He glared at the girl, "…Hinata, this is Temari, a kunoichi from Suna."
"Oh, so you're a civilian then? How interesting."
"Yes I am, are you stationed here in the village?" Hinata asked.
Sasuke was ready to leave the blonde's presence, in fact, he never wanted to speak with her in the first place.
"How perceptive. I worked with your boy here and your cousin a while back."
She lightly blushed at her constant insinuation. Were they boyfriend and girlfriend? Was he her first boyfriend? They kissed like they were, talked like they were, held hands like they were. They even had a date, she just didn't know when.
Temari nodded, "So, what are you doing here?"
Sasuke glared at her, "The obvious, looking at music. Where are your brothers?"
"Ready to get rid of me that fast?" she mocked, "And here I thought we were all supposed to be friends."
"Comrades, not friends."
"Tch, Kankuro dragged us here saying he needed some new kunai. That was half an hour ago, now he's stalking some girls in a shoe store. Not sure where Gaara got off to."
"Hn. We need to get going."
"Yeah yeah, whatever you say Uchiha. Bye Hinata, it was nice meeting you."
"Y-you as well Temari."
He grunted and dragged her away, Suna nin were a rough bunch, and he didn't want them around his girl. Wait…his girl? He supposed he did feel that way, he was willing to call her his girlfriend like so many people perceived them as. But he wouldn't do so without talking everything out first. He was amazed that he already thought of her as his, his alone.
"So, I-I was w-wondering, u-um…about the d-date?"
He smirked as he looked down at her, still holding her hand. He'd jut caught sight of Neji and nodded towards him, "What about it? You still want to go, don't you?"
She nodded, he was learning to adore her quick ability to blush for him, "Y-yes. I d-do, but…when?"
He raised a brow in thought, then stopped walking amongst the rush of people, shielding her with hands on her shoulders so she wouldn't be trampled, and looked into her eyes "…tonight, we'll go out tonight. Is that alright?"
She thought it over, then nodded with acceptance.
He gave her a small smile, and her heart nearly melted at his softened features, "We can wait for next weekend Hinata…"
"…No...no, we'll go tonight."
He pulled her close and whispered to her, "I'm sorry I kissed you again."
She sighed into his chest, "No, I just…I just need to think, you were right, we do need to talk about things first."
He suddenly let go of her and took a step back, she was right, he still couldn't fathom how he let himself get so wrapped up in her. It wasn't like they could go instantly into a relationship, he frowned over his own actions. It seemed, that he could barely keep his hands to himself. His arms simply wanted to be around her in some way.
She giggled and stepped closer to him, grabbing his hand with her own, "That doesn't mean you have to stop holding my hand. We'll talk tonight after dinner…and-and, I'm not s-s-s-orry that you kissed me."
He blinked down at her, he didn't know how to proceed with her, had no clue if he would be crossing some boundary. "So, you like when I kiss you."
She blushed a few more shades of pink, but nodded once.
As if testing the waters, he leaned in close to her, dipping his head to her level, staring into her eyes.
"There you are! We've been looking all over for you!"
And just like before, when they almost kissed for the first time against the wall upstairs, he placed his head on her shoulder and sighed deeply. She giggled and felt a little faint. When she was with him, it was just them. Everyone in the whole mall disappeared. "We're here Tenten, let's go to Macy's, they have a great china collection." She latched onto her friends hand and they led the way.
Neji quickly picked up the pace besides Sasuke, "I saw that."
Sasuke smirked, "I'm taking her out for dinner tonight."
He raised a brow, "Oh?"
"Hn."
Neji continued to walk on for a moment in silence, behind the two chatting friends, "Will you hold my hand? I might fall."
Sasuke glared at him as Neji fell into laughter.
-A/N-
Thank you for all the reviews – and I'm sorry that I don't always get to respond right away. T.T
For most of you, school is over. However, in my case, I am in a program that starts in the summer, and so my school year is now beginning. I'll do my best for updates, please be patient with me. XD
Thanks to worldreminiscence, I have turned off the anonymous-filter. Really, I didn't realize it was on, and I really want to thank you for pretty much reading/reviewing each chapter in such a short amount of time-wows!
