Keeping Aflame
Light
In her heart of hearts, Hinata was puzzled at why Sakura and Ino were not arguing over someone else. She thought that everyone must have made friends with Naruto because they saw the same determination and brightness in him that she had, and thought the world of him as she did. Surely Sakura and Ino had become so warmed by that brilliance that they would be fighting over him – but no, it was Sasuke.
Not that Hinata was unappreciative of Sasuke! No, he was very nice in a gruff way and they did grow up together. He just… didn't shine.
/100 words
AN: Just a word to the worried (or a splash of cold water on the happy), there will be no explicit and reciprocated pairings. This is currently just Hinata's non-romantic admiration.