Kagome followed Neji to the sushi restaurant. "Is this a date, Neji-sama?"
"Of course." Neji said simply.
Kagome was shocked at his boldness. She considered it. She was hungry, after that endless battle, and he was handsome.
"Alright, I accept." Kagome sat at the table. "Were you really dying, Neji-sama?"
"I was." Neji said. "I stood in the way of an attack meant for Naruto. I know I died because..." He pointed to his forehead, which had no mark on it. "...my curse mark is gone."
"Curse mark?" Kagome chewed a bite of sushi. "You were cursed?"
"Yes." Neji looked into space. 'The branch family is beholden to the main family. They can kill us if they wish. And now I'm free."
"And you choose to use your freedom to date me." Kagome chuckled.
"That is one freedom I choose." Neji admitted, kissing her hand. "Kagome. You are my second chance."
Kagome blushed.