CHAPTER 2 - Lack of clarity
.
.
Hinata swore Sakura into secrecy.
Not that she needed to.
As a doctor, Sakura had to maintain patient confidentiality.
As a friend, she would never expose such personal information like this.
Sakura took it upon herself to do as much research as she could on the subject matter. She wasn't even sure what she should look up. Spontaneous pregnancy? The appearance of a sphere of energy in a woman's chakra pathway? If the tests were wrong? What?
When questioned about her periods and how she didn't realize she missed two of them, Hinata had no real answer. She had been so distracted by her missions she honestly didn't realize how much time went by. Her periods weren't always the most regular. The life of a ninja was a rough one. With all the intense training she did it wouldn't be rare for her body to just skip one month or be a week or two late. It was already getting late into September and she didn't remember getting her period in August either.
Even after absolutely confirming the test results multiple times Hinata found it hard to believe.
"Of course you're going to struggle to accept it," Sakura had exclaimed. "Even I'm having trouble! How the fuck- sorry. You never even had sex-"
The walk to the Hyuga compound felt both painstakingly slow but also too fast.
She didn't want to go back just yet. What if someone noticed? She wasn't showing yet was she? What if someone looked at her too long with their Byakugan activated? No. No one would do that. Not in the compound. That would be rude…
Hinata turned on the spot just to walk in the opposite direction.
She really needed a friend right now.
.
.
Naruto was bored.
He had stopped by Sasuke's place only to have the door slammed shut in his face. He didn't even know why. Guess the Uchiha just wasn't in the mood? Naruto couldn't fathom why. What the hell could that guy be doing cooped up in his apartment? He didn't think too much about it. Sasuke had his good and bad days when it came to socializing.
He didn't even bother checking on Sakura. She was probably at the hospital. When in doubt- hospital. He definitely didn't want to go there. He wasn't the biggest fan of hospitals. Yeah, they helped and stuff. But the only reasons he had really been there in the past was because he was really hurt and/or dying or one of his friends were hurt and/or dying. Hospitals were no fun.
He considered going to Ichiraku's but he had already gone there for lunch. He found his mind wandering to a certain kunoichi as it so often happens now. He thought back on the times Hinata would come over his apartment to help him cook something. That was always fun. She had really been encouraging him to eat a more varied diet and took steps to teach him how to prepare different recipes in order to make that happen.
He smiled fondly, remembering how hesitant she was the first time she visited. She would nervously work in his kitchen, gently giving him instructions. As they met more often she started to become more comfortable. She learned where things were. She wouldn't ask him before looking in a cabinet or drawer. It felt natural.
As if his thoughts became reality, he saw a familiar head of navy hair walking in his general direction. She was moving fast-
"Hinata!"
She walked right past him, clearly distracted.
He paused to watch her continue on her trek up the road, confused. She had looked worried. Quickly coming to a decision he chased after her.
She bumped into his chest as he appeared in front of her, startled, gripping his jacket for balance.
"Naruto-kun!" she yelped, hopping back, her eyes darting around nervously.
"Hinata, you ran by so fast you didn't even notice me," Naruto exclaimed, grinning down at her. "Where are you off to in such a hurry?"
"Oh, my mistake," she apologized, clasping her hands in front of her as she stared idly at the ground. "I was just looking for Kiba-kun or Shino-kun. I was in my own head, I'm sorry."
"Don't apologize," Naruto said with a chuckle, scratching at his cheek. "You seem a little shaken, are you okay?"
Hinata finally seemed to meet his gaze and she took a moment before responding.
"I'm okay."
Naruto felt like he knew Hinata. He felt like he knew her pretty well, especially now. And she was definitely not okay.
Why would she lie though?
Maybe it's none of your business, kit, Kurama spoke in his head.
It is if she's in trouble-
"I'm sorry to be rude, Naruto-kun," Hinata interjected, interrupting his inner monologue. "I really just wanted to speak with them."
Naruto cocked his head. Hinata's entire demeanor was off. Yeah, she used to get all embarrassed and flustered around him before, but as he looked at her he could tell she was feeling a different kind of embarrassment.
She almost looked ashamed.
This made no sense to him. What could she have done that would make her feel like this? And why was she acting so shifty?
"Yeah, that's no problem," he said, leaning down closer to look into her eyes. He always thought Hinata was an open book- to a certain extent. He felt he could normally tell how she was feeling just by looking at her. But this was something he couldn't quite read. And he didn't like it. "You can tell me anything, ya know?"
Hinata blushed red, staring down at her feet. "Thank you," she muttered quietly. "But...I…"
Naruto was starting to feel bad. He didn't want to pressure her into telling him if she felt so uncomfortable. But he also felt bad because, damn, does she not trust me?
He laughed, awkwardly scratching at the back of his head. "Hey, I won't stop you any longer! Go find your friends!"
She looked up at him, the corner of her mouth twitching up into a hesitant smile. "Thank you for understanding, Naruto-kun. I'll see you around, okay?"
"For sure," he nodded. "You still promised me you'd teach me how to make another dish, remember?"
Hinata giggled and Naruto felt his heart soar. She was being weird but he was glad he got her out of her funk, even if it was just for a moment.
"Yes, we'll figure out a recipe and day that works for us both."
She waved goodbye before darting off once more.
Naruto watched her until she disappeared around the corner.
She was definitely acting strange.
Did she seem worried to you?
Yes.
Naruto frowned. What could be worrying her? Clan things? Some upcoming mission? Maybe that's why she wanted to see her teammates.
Still. This was different. Something was off. He could tell.
He made sure to make a mental note to check up on her.
You already check up on her more than you should, Kurama snickered in his head.
Shut up, Naruto thought with a grumble, stuffing his hands in his jacket pocket before heading off back to Sasuke's. He said no earlier but maybe he'd be up for a spar by now. It'll do good to clear his head.
.
.
Sasuke Uchiha liked to keep to himself.
But with his luck he ended up being put on a team with two of the most extroverted people in his class. Further proving his luck, or lack of it in his opinion, they continued to want to be associated with him even after he...did stuff.
One benefit of being friends- associates with Naruto Uzumaki was he had someone he could actually fight and train with without holding back. But it also meant he would be expected to talk and listen to him.
That's how one afternoon he found himself walking side by side with the chatty blonde on their way to a training site. As they got closer they realized it was already occupied.
"Oh, nice!" Naruto cheered, realizing who was in the field. "It's Team 8."
"They're always together," Sasuke said dully.
"Duh, they're teammates," Naruto snorted. "Unlike you, not all teammates go and abandon the village, threaten to kill them-"
"...Okay."
Naruto laughed, slapping him on the back. Sasuke didn't budge.
"Should we go to a different place?" Sasuke asked as they approached the edge of the clearing.
"Nah, let's go say hi."
Naruto ran ahead, yelling out a greeting as he approached the three ninjas and Akamaru. Sasuke trailed behind taking in the scenery. The field looked untouched. No scuff marks in the grass, no broken trees- Did they just get here?
"-Sasuke-kun?"
Sasuke blinked, realizing he was being spoken to. He looked at the group, all eyes on him.
"Hinata asked how you were, teme," Naruto explained, rolling his eyes.
Sasuke looked down at the short Hyuga. She was always nice to him and he wasn't sure how to feel about it. When he first returned to the village many people were slow to accept him. They were still nervous around him- another reason why he preferred to stay in his apartment. But the Hyuga was always polite. She always said hello and smiled at him. She never shied away from him-
"I'm fine," Sasuke answered.
Hinata smiled at him. "Are you two here to train?"
"Hn."
"You guys done?" Naruto asked.
Sasuke didn't miss how Naruto's eyes did a quick once over of the kunoichi, checking for injuries.
"No," Kiba spoke, crossing his arms. "We were sort of just hanging out."
"Awesome," Naruto grinned brightly. "We can all spar then. It's been a while since we-"
"NO!" Kiba barked out abruptly. He cleared his throat, his cheeks reddening as all eyes turned to him. "Sorry, I mean...no. We have plans, right guys?"
Sasuke wasn't too familiar with the way Team 8 normally behaved but he had picked up a few things over the years and this was definitely off.
His dark eyes roved the group. The bug user was as stoic as ever. He couldn't for the life of him remember his name. Kiba had settled himself in front of the Hyuga almost shielding her from Naruto and himself. The girl herself looked a little embarrassed for whatever reason.
"Ah, it's my fault," Hinata spoke quietly. "We...I have…"
She definitely wasn't good at coming up with lies, Sasuke decided.
Naruto chuckled uncomfortably. "It's okay if you guys don't want to train with us, -ttebayo."
Hinata shook her head resolutely. "It's not that! Training with you two really helps me improve, especially fighting against Sasuke-kun's sharingan. I just…"
"Let's fight." The words were out of Sasuke's mouth before he realized it.
There was a buzz in the air and the Uchiha immediately realized he wasn't imagining it. There were literal bugs in the air, emerging from the openings of the bug user's clothes.
"Shino-kun…" Hinata murmured, clasping his arm gently. "It's okay."
Ah, Shino. Of course. He knew that.
Shino cleared his throat. "I apologize. My insects got a little protective."
Hm. He knew the team was close. Were they afraid for the Hyuga? He wouldn't hurt her terribly.
"We have sparred before," Sasuke reminded them.
Naruto was looking at the team curiously. "You guys are acting really weird."
As if to prove his point, Hinata's cheeks went pink, Kiba shuffled his feet uncomfortably, and even Shino's shoulders seemed to tense.
"We just don't feel like fighting right now, Naruto," Kiba said gruffly. "If you guys want to fight with us so badly I'll spar-"
"I want to fight the Hyuga," Sasuke spoke firmly.
There was something up and for some reason she seemed to be the key. He didn't know why he was pushing so hard. Naruto's influence he supposed. The blonde would talk about Hinata occasionally, which at first was odd to him. He never heard him speak about her before he left the village. And now suddenly it would be Hinata this, Hinata that, did you know Hinata could-
So maybe his curiosity was piqued. He was human after all.
He stared at the young woman and she met his gaze unblinkingly before nodding almost imperceptibly.
Sasuke turned and walked to the opposite side of the clearing and heard the Hyuga get into position herself. As her teammates realized her decision he heard them cry out in opposition.
"Hinata-"
"Hinata, you don't have to-"
"It's okay," Hinata said, settling into a traditional Hyuga stance.
"You got this Hinata!" Naruto cheered from the side.
Sasuke scoffed. He wouldn't go all out. Naruto wouldn't forgive him if he badly injured her. No maiming. Maybe some bruising and blood. He knew their power levels differed significantly. But he also wouldn't go easy on her. She wouldn't forgive him if he did. He knew this from the occasional spar here and there.
Sasuke activated his Sharingan, automatically scanning and analyzing his opponent-
His eyes flicked down.
Now, he wasn't often surprised in the midst of a battle but what he saw did make him pause.
What?
The Sharingan wasn't as capable as the Byakugan when it came to seeing chakra but he could distinguish the composition and source of it and...Hinata looked like she had two.
He realized he was staring too long. Moving his gaze up from her stomach, he met her Byakugan eyes, veins tight around them. With just the briefest glance at her body he could tell her Hyuga stance was slightly off, arms hanging slightly further down as if to shield her lower half-
He sighed, allowing his body to relax, and deactivated his dojutsu.
"I changed my mind. I don't want to fight."
He refused to fight with a pregnant woman.
Sasuke prepared for the onslaught of questions but none came. Team 8 appeared nervous but the look Hinata gave him was a sad and a knowing one. She walked up to him as Naruto voiced his confusion.
"What happened?" Naruto asked. "You chickening out?"
Sasuke spared him a glance. "Yes."
This shut the jinchuriki up momentarily. He definitely didn't expect that.
"Sasuke-kun," Hinata was speaking quietly as she stood in front of him. "Please don't tell anyone. Not even Naruto-kun."
Black eyes stared into white ones.
"I won't."
She gave him a hesitant smile. "Sakura-chan knows."
Hinata glanced over her shoulders as the rest of the guys gathered around them. Shino and Kiba didn't question it. Naruto however-
"What the hell is going on?" he burst out.
"It's none of our business, dobe," Sasuke said. "Let's find another place to fight."
Naruto was about to open his mouth but Sasuke turned on the spot and started walking.
Okay, so Naruto didn't know.
Honestly, Sasuke didn't know much about the ins and outs of Konoha and its inhabitants but even he wasn't clueless to Hinata Hyuga's feelings for Naruto during their days at the academy. And from their interactions over the past two or three years, he thought those feelings were still valid.
Sasuke sighed, only half listening to Naruto's goodbyes as he heard him run to catch up with him.
Sasuke wasn't good with love and feelings and romance- as Sakura could attest, but he knew his best friend liked the Hyuga, maybe even loved her.
He also believed he would have told him, not necessarily boasted, but he definitely would have been excited to share if his feelings were reciprocated. But nothing of that sort happened. He never had to sit through hours of Naruto going on and on about how Hinata definitively liked him and how he was going to take her to Ichiraku's-
Not to mention if this was his baby he would never leave her side- protective of her enough as he was already Sasuke couldn't imagine the changes after finding out she was carrying his child.
Sasuke could only conclude that the baby was someone else's.
Sasuke glanced at Naruto, who was blabbering about Team 8 being all secretive and how he was going to whoop his ass during their spar-
But his thoughts were elsewhere.
Hinata Hyuga was pregnant and it was highly unlikely that Naruto was the father.
How the fuck did he get roped into a secret like this.
Sasuke inhaled deeply and genuinely considered leaving the Hidden Leaf Village again.
.
.
A week had passed since Sasuke learned "The Secret."
A week of Naruto complaining and a week of him having to stay silent- more silent than usual.
A week of shared knowing glances with Sakura and accurate accusations from the blonde.
"You two are hiding something too," Naruto grumbled, pointing his chopsticks at Sasuke and Sakura in turn. The original Team 7 sat at Ichiraku's helping themselves to ramen. Naruto had previously been filling in Sakura on the strange behaviors of Team 8.
"Listen, I know they got their own thing going on," Naruto had said. "I get it. Team secrets, ya know? But they've been acting all shady and weird for a while now. I don't get it."
Sakura glimpsed over at Sasuke, searching for words to say.
Naruto wasn't wrong.
Team 8 would more likely than not always be found together now. Sure they were close before but now it was hard to find Hinata without one or the other. Sometimes even with just Akamaru.
"Pet sitting," Hinata would say.
Sure. Sasuke knew better.
"Are you guys listening?" Naruto asked before turning back to his bowl to slurp up more noodles. "I feel like you guys aren't listening," he said, mouth full.
Sakura gave him a disgusted look. "Manners, Naruto."
Naruto swallowed quickly, glaring at her. "And don't think I haven't noticed you two giving each other looks. What? You two are official now or something?"
Sakura went red and stared at her bowl, refusing to answer.
Sasuke just shrugged.
"Whatever," the blonde continued, popping a bite of sliced pork in his mouth. "Everybody got secrets apparently, except me."
"What about you and Hinata?" Sakura suddenly countered.
"What about us?" Naruto frowned.
"You tell her how you feel?"
Sasuke glanced up over the counter. The older man and his daughter were clearly listening to the conversation. He had noticed them perk at the mention of the Hyuga.
Really? Were Naruto and Hinata's feelings clear to everyone but themselves?
Loud coughing brought Sasuke back to the conversation. Naruto was choking on something- no doubt the line of questioning Sakura was launching at him came as a surprise. As soon as he recovered he stared hard at Sakura.
"No! I don't...how the hell would I go about doing something like that? Hi Hinata, you know how you confessed to me years ago? Well, I'm so sorry I never responded. I was dumb and didn't realize the love you meant was that kind of love. Whoops. Well, I think I feel the same way so forgive me?"
Everyone stared at Naruto. The two cooks included.
"Pretty much, yeah," Sakura said after a beat of silence.
Naruto groaned, pulling at his hair. "No, I can't. I don't know how!" He sighed deeply, staring at his empty bowl. "I'm a coward."
Sakura's eyes softened. "You're not a coward."
"No," Sasuke finally decided to chime in. "But maybe you should wait to say anything."
This earned him a big punch on the arm from Sakura and Sakura's punches hurt.
"Sasuke-kun!"
Sasuke stared into her green eyes, both of them silently communicating.
Sasuke had found her the day after learning Hinata's secret. The Hyuga had confessed that Sakura knew as well and he figured that was her way of giving him the okay to talk to her. The pink haired ninja didn't tell him much but basically he learned this was some sort of miracle pregnancy or something like that. Made no sense to him. Sasuke wasn't really one for romance and love and all that but he damn well knew how babies were made and apparently the Hyuga found some other way to do it.
Sakura huffed and turned back to Naruto.
"Listen, Naruto. I'm sure Hinata would appreciate you telling her how you feel."
"Maybe," Sasuke said.
Naruto annoyed him sometimes, yeah. But it would suck if he got his heart broken and he didn't really feel like dealing with that. He'd do it if he had to but it would be nice to avoid it.
Sakura glowered at him.
Eh, the more he thought about it the more he didn't care. Let the dobe do what he wants.
Sakura continued to look like she wanted to punch him again so Sasuke was really grateful when the shop owner's daughter decided to chime in.
"Naruto, if you're afraid Hinata doesn't feel the way you do for her... I don't think that fear is warranted."
"Afterall, I don't think there's anyone who can out eat you when it comes to ramen other than her," her father added, laughing boisterously.
"You guys really think she likes me?" Naruto asked with an innocent expression on his face.
Sasuke couldn't help but roll his eyes.
"That's not for us to tell you," Sakura answered vaguely.
They continued to eat in silence for a while and just as Sasuke finished up with his bowl, Sakura spoke again.
"Naruto." Sasuke watched the kunoichi give the jinchuriki a hard look. "Are your feelings for Hinata conditional?"
"Huh? What do you mean?"
"Like...I don't know. Do you think you wouldn't like her if she did something or you learned something surprising about her?"
Naruto looked confused for a second, taking the time to carefully think about her words. Finally, he looked back at her resolutely.
"Of course I'd feel the same way. I don't think anything can change that."
Sasuke noticed how Sakura seemed to relax after that.
"You really do love her," she said. "It's a real type of love."
Naruto squirmed. "Love...I think so? I know I like her. Love is complicated isn't it? I wouldn't really know."
Sasuke stared at his two friends, each lost in their own thoughts. He was surprised at how...humbled Naruto suddenly was. He was quiet, keeping to himself as he pondered something.
Sakura on the other hand had looked disappointed in Naruto's response.
Sasuke could understand why. It seemed like Naruto still struggled to name his feelings. It was obvious to everyone but himself.
Sasuke sighed.
What the hell was he supposed to do about this?
Was he supposed to do anything about it?
This was something for Naruto to figure out on his own but damn Sasuke kind of wished the Hyuga would reconfess or something. Or Naruto would figure out what he was actually feeling. It would save them a lot of time and Sasuke a lot of future headaches.
.
.
Hinata really appreciates her team. Truely, she does. They've been through a lot of things together and subsequently know a lot about each other. They were protective of her, she's definitely noticed that through the years. She was obviously protective of them as well. But with the confirmation of her...pregnancy-
She still found herself in a little bit of denial over that fact.
With the confirmation of her pregnancy their protectiveness seemed to have reached a peak.
And it was starting to get a little bit on her nerves.
At least when it came to situations like this.
She was standing near the gates of Konoha waiting for Choji to arrive, quietly listening to Kiba and Shino voice their opinions regarding the mission she was assigned.
"Hinata, are you sure you're okay to go?" Kiba asked.
Hinata nodded. "Yes, Kiba-kun."
"I realize, Hinata, that we have been a little overbearing these last few days," Shino started, hands stuffed deep into his pockets.
Hinata neither agreed nor disagreed. She continued to stare down the road.
"The reason is because we are concerned for your well being," Shino finished.
"Not only yours now…" Kiba said under his breath.
Hinata's eyes darted to meet the shorter of the two men. "Kiba-kun…"
"Don't you think you should take some time off?" Kiba asked nervously.
Hinata turned to face her best friends, an uncharacteristically upset look on her face. "Kiba-kun. Shino-kun. I understand you two are worried about me. And I respect that. I thank you for it. But…" she spoke lower now. "But if Sakura-chan and I counted correctly, I'm probably only two to three months in right now. I'm perfectly capable of going on a D or C rank mission."
"But-"
"No. There are women all around the world, further along than me, who do much harder work-"
"We get that! I know damn well females are strong as hell," Kiba quickly inserted before she could continue speaking.
"We are speaking from the position of your friends," Shino added. "As family."
Hinata's gaze softened. "I know. And I'm really grateful for it. But please realize I would never put myself in more danger than I have to-"
Kiba scoffed here. "Except when Naruto's concerned-"
Hinata frowned. "Except when any of the people I hold dear to me are concerned," she corrected. "But...there's an obvious caveat now. I won't do anything dangerous. And Choji will be with me as well."
"I fully trust Choji will look out for you," Shino said with a short nod. "But he isn't aware of your current condition. I'm sure he would be more alert if he was cognizant of-"
"You know I don't feel comfortable sharing this right now," Hinata said softly. "I'm still having trouble wrapping my own mind around it...accepting it. It's still hard for me to believe it's true."
"We get it," Kiba insisted. "And we're not trying to pressure you. It's your choice of when you want to tell people." He smiled somberly. "I just wish you didn't have a mission."
Hinata returned the look. "More likely than not, there will be plenty of more missions after this one. I don't want anyone to suspect anything yet. I want things to be normal for now. I can't just go and refuse an assigned mission. And this is a relatively simple one. The Hokage didn't even think it necessary to assign a full team. Just me and Choji."
"What was the mission again?" Kiba asked.
"A nearby mining village's tunnel entrance collapsed. They need me to check the whereabouts of the miners and Choji to do the heavy lifting. It'll be fine. Two or three days max."
"Missions can go bad fast," Kiba said with uncertainty.
Hinata reached out and gently clasped her hand in his. "Trust me."
"I do. We do. It's other people I don't trust…" Kiba sighed. "This is going to be a long couple of months."
Hinata gave him a wry smile. "A strange couple of months."
"Choji is approaching," Shino said, gazing off somewhere behind her. He walked past her, meeting the Akimichi halfway. Hinata could vaguely hear them conversing and caught a few words that sounded suspiciously like, "Take care of Hinata."
She shook her head, exhaling through her nose, slightly annoyed. But she still couldn't help the smile that formed on her lips.
She really did love her boys.
.
.
October
Naruto's 20th birthday was fast approaching and he was looking forward to his friends getting together at his apartment. One good thing that had come due to Pain's assault on the village was getting a brand new place larger than his old studio growing up. It was still simple, a one bedroom and one bathroom, but at least he had a decent sized living room- large enough that he would feel comfortable hosting his friends, and a decent sized kitchen.
You feel remarkably happy, Kurama snickered in his head.
Naruto didn't even deny it. Yeah. 'Cuz I'm thinking of the times Hinata hung out here. I miss her cooking. I wonder if she would make something for the party.
You're hoping to throw a party and you want to put the girl to work?
Ah, shit, no. That's not what I mean-
Naruto could hear the fox chuckle evilly.
He really was looking forward to the event. His friends had volunteered to help. Some were getting drinks, other's promising to bring food and snacks, and some games to play. It wasn't much but he just wanted to spend some time with them.
Before he knew it, the night of his party arrived and most of his friends were lounging around his apartment. A couple of them just started playing a drinking card game and were getting louder by the moment. Naruto knew from experience he didn't handle his liquor very well and he really wanted to remember the night so he paced himself.
Looking around his living room he couldn't help but feel a warmth bloom in his chest. His friends really supported him through thick and thin.
Naruto walked over to Sasuke who was seated on the arm of his couch, warily eyeing the occupants of the room.
"Why don't you join them in playing cards?" Naruto asked.
"Not in the mood," Sasuke responded.
Naruto snorted. "Are you ever?"
Over the chattering of his friends he could hear quiet music playing in the background, hiding any potential lulls in their conversation. He watched Ino walk back and forth from the kitchen, bringing out different drink concoctions for people to try every time. Kiba and Shino were huddled around a table laden with food, slowly picking away at the snacks.
"What are you doing?"
Naruto turned to see Sai standing beside him. "Hm? Just looking."
Sai nodded in understanding. "I do that often too. Observe social interactions and behaviors."
Naruto laughed. "Yeah, that's exactly what I'm doing."
"I've noticed you keep glancing at the door."
Naruto heard Sasuke scoff and he glared at his friend.
"Who are you looking for?" Sai continued.
"No one," Naruto answered, shrugging.
"I don't believe that's true," Sai said. "The only two people missing are Hinata Hyuga and Choji Akimichi. They were on a mission, correct?"
Naruto was silent.
He glanced over at the men of Team 8 and noticed they were listening too.
"Were they supposed to make it back on time for your birthday?" Sai asked.
Naruto didn't answer.
Kiba did. "Yeah, they were," he said as him and Shino joined the two, and by proximity, Sasuke.
Sasuke sighed. "They still have time."
"Wow, you're the optimistic one now, huh?" Naruto joked half-heartedly. "But yeah, I'm not worried. They're strong."
Wish Kakashi-bastard-sensei-Hokage assigned me on the mission too though, Naruto thought. The last time he was on a mission with Hinata was several weeks ago and she nearly died. He understood there was no need for him even if he didn't like it. It wouldn't make sense to waste manpower on a simple assignment like their current one.
A few more hours passed and he thoroughly enjoyed seeing how most of his friends had reddened cheeks, flushed from drinking, while they laughed loudly and hung around his place. He always appreciated when people came over to visit. Growing up was lonely so having his home filled with voices and laughter was always fulfilling.
You need a mate to give you kits, Kurama stirred.
Naruto outwardly frowned but couldn't help the breath of laughter that escaped his lips. That's the weirdest way anyone has ever told me to get a family.
That's the basic premise of it, is it not?
Naruto couldn't argue with that.
Over the sound of music and his friend's conversations, Naruto didn't hear the opening of his front door and with some alcohol in his system he was less attuned and alert than usual. So it did surprise him when he turned to see Hinata and Choji enter the living room, still dressed in their mission gear.
"Are we late?" Choji exclaimed over the noise.
Talk died down as all his friends turned to see the newcomers, quickly standing and pulling them into other conversations. Choji dropped his backpack next to Hinata's and went immediately to the food table and before Naruto could even approach Hinata, her team was on her.
"You're back!" Kiba exclaimed, pulling her into a hug.
"You're unharmed?" Shino asked.
Hinata laughed, nodding as Kiba pulled away. "I'm fine. The mission was only delayed because there were more tunnel collapses deeper in."
As Naruto moved to say hello he felt someone push him out of the way- a flash of pink passed him as Sakura crowded around Hinata as well.
"Hinata!" Sakura exclaimed. "I'm so glad you're back. Did you eat yet? You should eat something." She started dragging her to the kitchen just as Ino stepped out, a red drink in her hand.
"Hinata! Perfect timing," Ino said, shoving the full cup into Hinata's hands, splashing a bit onto the floor. "I just made another drink. You're late but we can get you all caught up-"
Sakura instantly snatched the drink away. "She doesn't want to drink. She wants to eat."
Naruto cringed, watching the scene. It was obvious Ino took offense to this.
"Watch it forehead, I made that drink special-"
"You didn't even know Hinata would be here-"
"Ah, please don't argue," Hinata spoke, attempting to placate the two hotheads- they were already uninhibited by the drinks and looked ready to bite each other's throats out.
Naruto moved forward, ready to help Hinata as she demurely tried to quiet her friends. He stepped beside her, sliding an arm over her shoulders and beamed down at her.
She glanced up at him and his grin widened when light pink dusted her cheeks.
Maybe she does still like me.
"I'm glad you made it back safe, Hinata," he said, leaning down to whisper in her ear.
Was that necessary?
It's loud.
Sure.
"Thank you, Naruto-kun, I'm glad too," she said, smiling up at him.
He held onto her a moment longer before looking back at Sakura and Ino, who were red in the face both from drink and anger. He stepped forward and carefully separated the two.
"Let me go, Naruto!" Ino shouted. "I'm just trying to give Hinata a drink, I don't know why Sakura's-"
"She doesn't want a drink-" Sakura repeated.
Ino sharply turned on Hinata. "You want a drink, don't you?"
Hinata was forced to take a step back just from the intensity of the look the taller female gave her. "I'm sorry, Ino-chan. I'm not in the mood for a drink right now."
Ino deflated. "What? But you just got back from a mission. A drink would do you some good."
Hinata shook her head, smiling at her kindly. "I appreciate you thinking about me. But I have to pass today."
That seemed to be enough for Ino until Sakura snorted. "Told you," she whispered under her breath.
Naruto sighed. As expected Ino flared up once more, rounding on her pink haired friend as their foreheads met, sparks flying.
Naruto gave Hinata a look of exasperation and she giggled, following him into the kitchen just as Sasuke came over to help. The Uchiha extracted Sakura away from Ino who stomped towards Sai, sitting down next to him on the couch with a huff.
"Was it like this the whole party?" Hinata asked, leaning against the kitchen counter as he poured her a glass of water.
"Nah, things were going fine before you arrived," he teased, handing her a cup.
Hinata smiled, taking a few sips as they stood in his kitchen in comfortable silence, listening to their friends talk in the next room.
"Are you hungry? I can grab you something before it's all gone," Naruto said, carefully memorizing each bruise on her exposed arms, the faint dust on her clothes and hair, and just her overall look of exhaustion.
She shook her head. "I'm okay. Not that hungry."
Before Naruto could say anything Sakura marched into the kitchen with a full plate of food. Seeing Hinata had her hands full she handed the plate to him.
"Make sure she eats," she stated firmly, poking him hard in the chest before making her way back to the party.
Naruto gave Hinata a guilty smile. "You heard the med nin."
Hinata laughed. "Sakura's sweet."
"That's one way to describe her," Naruto chuckled, holding the plate out for her to pick at. The food consisted mostly of finger foods and she picked up a harumaki to nibble on.
"Thank you," she said softly.
Naruto found it hard to take his eyes off her. He didn't know why.
Yes you do.
Okay, he did.
"How was your mission?" he asked, laying the plate down on the counter.
"It was relatively straightforward," she answered. "Couldn't have done it without Choji's help."
He hesitated, really wanting to ask about everyone's weird behaviors. She seemed to notice his internal conflict.
"What's wrong?"
"Uhh, nothing." He cringed. He didn't even sound convincing to himself. Hinata tilted her head. "You sure you don't want a drink?" he asked, changing subjects. "No pressure but you usually would have a drink or two-"
For some reason his line of questioning seemed to make Hinata sad. He couldn't imagine why.
"I'm okay, Naruto-kun. I'm just tired from the mission."
"Okay, yeah. That's fine. I was just wondering-"
"Oh! Naruto-kun!" She suddenly bowed low, hair fanning across her face. "I'm so sorry! I forgot to wish you a happy birthday!"
Naruto was at first startled by her abrupt change in demeanor but after she finished he laughed, gently grabbing her by the shoulders to pull her up from the bow.
"It's okay, Hinata, you had a lot going on. Honestly, I sort of forgot about it too."
She giggled and he realized the only thing keeping them apart were her clasped hands around her drink.
I wish that wasn't there-
Maybe you are more like your sensei than you think.
Naruto released her reluctantly, scratching at the back of his head. Hinata returned to nursing her drink silently but he didn't miss the redness of her cheeks.
"Shino and Kiba have been extra antsy around you lately, haven't they?" Naruto asked, clearing his throat as he thought back to when Sasuke and himself found them in the training field.
Hinata hummed, the corner of her lip twitching up. "Yes, they have been."
Naruto laughed. "What changed?"
Hinata shook her head. "They're just being cautious."
"But why? Don't they know you kick ass?" he asked genuinely.
Before Hinata could answer, said teammates came into the kitchen.
"Hey, Naruto, seems like everyone's about to head out," Kiba said before addressing his female colleague. "Hinata, Shino or I can walk you home if you want."
"Oh no, that's not necessary," Hinata said, placing her half empty cup down.
Before they could finish their conversation, the rest of his friends squeezed into his kitchen, giving him hugs and wishing him a happy birthday once more before straggling out one by one. Naruto waved at Sasuke, who was escorting home an extremely tipsy Sakura.
"Hinata, finish your food!" Sakura exclaimed as the Uchiha pulled her towards the front door. "Naruto! Make sure she eats! She needs to eat especially after using so much of her chakra and energy-"
The door slammed shut and it was just him and Team 8.
"You guys go home," Hinata insisted. "I'll manage."
He looked back at the counter. Hinata had barely touched the food.
Naruto knew her teammates would have offered to walk her home even before they started being extra "hover-y". They looked like they were about to voice their dissent so he decided to help placate them of their worries.
"Guys, once Hinata's done eating I'll make sure she gets home safe," he promised.
Kiba hesitated for only a second before raising his arm in goodbye. "Fair enough," he said with a nod.
"Happy birthday, Naruto," Shino said as they retreated out of the kitchen.
He heard his front door click shut once more.
Now it was just him and her in his apartment.
Alone.
They had been alone many times before but it felt different now and he didn't know why. Maybe because of how late it was? Maybe because of how strange people were behaving? He didn't know.
"I'll go clean up and turn the music off," Naruto said. "You finish eating or Sakura-chan's gonna kick my ass."
Hinata nodded and he quickly summoned a couple shadow clones to make his job easier. Less than half an hour later his apartment looked how it did before his friends visited. He made his way back to the kitchen to check on Hinata. She was being more quiet than usual.
He found her sitting at his small dining table. She had her head down in her arms and as he got closer he realized she was sound asleep. Her food plate was perfectly clear, devoid of any crumbs, and her drink empty. A part of Naruto felt happy that she felt so comfortable and safe to fall asleep right in his kitchen. Another part of him felt guilty that she and Choji had pushed themselves so hard just to get back to Konoha on time for his party.
Naruto crouched down beside her, gently shaking her shoulder to wake her up.
"Hinataaa-"
She sat up straight immediately, her instincts kicking in. Her pretty, pale eyes met his blue ones and she instantly relaxed.
"I'm sorry, I must have fallen asleep."
"It's okay," Naruto responded. "You must have been exhausted. We should get you to bed soon."
"Naruto-kun, you really don't have to walk me back to the compound," she said, yawning into her hand. "It's really late now and you must be tired too."
"I know I don't have to," Naruto said with a chuckle. "And yeah, it's late. That's one reason why I would want to."
Hinata pouted. She pouted.
She's so fucking cute-
"You know, you don't have to go."
The words slipped out of his mouth before he could even think about what he was saying.
"Huh?"
"I mean, it is late. And you're tired. You could take a shower and sleep here. It doesn't matter to me."
Smooth, kit, Kurama chuckled.
"I don't want to be a burden…" Hinata was saying.
Naruto shook his head. "Definitely not. I want you to stay, Hinata." He felt his face grow hot. "I don't mean it in a- I'm not trying to be a perv. I'll take the couch-"
Hinata giggled, reaching out to rest her hand on the back of his own. "Thank you, Naruto-kun. I appreciate that."
A wide grin split his face as he stood up. "Great! I'm sure you got spare clothes in your bag but you can borrow one of my clean shirts if you want. It'll probably be more comfortable. I'll grab you a towel, hold on."
He knew he was rambling. He couldn't help it. He was glad she would be spending the night.
Not with you. Not like how you wish-
That's fine, Kurama. That's not...that's not my goal.
What is your goal?
Naruto paused, one hand on a fluffy black towel.
Just... I don't know. Being by her side? He sighed. You know how I feel about her. I just want to be there for her.
.
.
Naruto was finishing setting up the couch to act as his bed for the night when Hinata returned to the living room dressed in one of his white shirts with the classic red Uzumaki swirl. It hung loosely off her body, stopping mid thigh.
He chuckled. "Doesn't look like it fits."
Hinata looked down at herself, smoothing out the front of the shirt. "Hm, not yet," she said softly.
He wasn't sure what she meant by that.
He found himself a little distracted.
It was odd. A primal part of him, seeing her in his shirt- a shirt with his clan crest- made his emotions rapidly change from a steady affection to a kindling desire.
What was your goal again? Kurama teased, snickering.
Shut up-
"Good night, Naruto-kun," Hinata spoke gently, tucking a strand of her hair behind her ear. "Thank you for allowing me to use your bed."
"Yeah, of course," Naruto said, clearing his throat. He hoped she didn't notice the deepening pitch of his voice. He turned off the lights as soon as he heard his bedroom door shut.
Naruto struggled to sleep that night.
It was hard to keep his mind off the fact that Hinata was sleeping in his bed and how badly he wanted to be with her.
.
.
Author's Note:
I adore the different relationships/friendships in Naruto and I really wanted to incorporate them into the story. Also, Sasuke is so fun to write (and I fully believe he considers Naruto his best friend. I hope he doesn't come off as mean- I'm trying to make it sarcastic/light hearted to a certain extent).
And Naruto still really needs some clarity when it comes to his feelings smh. ;)
Also I'm getting a little nervous writing this story. I have a basic premise of what I want to happen and the drama around the pregnancy but I just hope I can write it out properly lol. Will be taking a lot of creative liberty eventually~ hope you guys stick with me regardless.
These chapters are pretty long (almost as long as my AU one-shots!) but that might change later.
Anyways, thank you guys so much for all the positive feedback! It really encourages me to write. Ahh, I can't wait for more misunderstandings, drama, and fun times~