One more chapter after this and I think we can wrap this up. What do you think? ;)
"Oyy! Let's go. I want to make it back in time for the festival!" Kiba shouted behind him as they leapt through the high branches of the trees. The sun was dimming in the sky and the bright lights of Konoha were already visible through the leaves as they traveled.
Akamaru barked loudly as if agreeing with Kiba and Shikamaru scowled something sarcastic under his breath. It was a last minute mission that had come up two days ago as an 'emergency escort' according to some high and mighty Lord from a small country to the south. Kiba was worried about making it back in time especially when they encountered several mobs on their way to and from.
Uchiha Sasuke didn't care about the festival. Naruto had hoped that Sasuke would be there during his ceremony but they were low on help. Even with Kabuto gone and almost forgotten of, missions had picked up due to tension to the south east of Konoha. Sasuke thought it was silly upon hearing the reason of the quarrel: two different families from two allied villages were simply dealing with affairs between the two. This caused ruffled feathers and the need for idiotic escorts.
He didn't complain, however, as it gave him something to do. For one, the missions were easy money as they were usually uneventful. This had been the exception and Sasuke was reminded of it with an arm wound. He was hasty to wrap it with gauze, but Kiba had been so keen on getting back that he didn't get a chance to properly tend to it.
Rumor was the Sand Siblings were in town for the special ceremony and festivities which meant even Shikamaru was anxious to return. Sasuke could really care less. If anything, it was just an excuse for him to get drunk in public. He needed it especially after having to put up with people he disliked for a few days. Sasuke was ready to drink away the tension in his body.
As they went, Sasuke constantly had to squint his eyes because of the dull aches that sat just behind his corneas. He had always had problems with his Sharingan and infamous 'eye aches'. Instead of headaches, they were concentrated in the eyes themselves. It was common with eye-centric Kekkei Genkai so it was nothing new.
Sasuke did notice that ever since receiving the Mangekyo, the aches had been more often and more painful. The only thing that helped was a cold wash cloth and the eye drops that Hinata had given him a while back. Sasuke used them so much that he had run out. He thought about swallowing his pride and asking her for more but it would ruin his whole motive of not thinking of her.
It was a challenge that he faced every day. Sometimes she visited him in his dreams. They were usually harmless but the harder he tried not to think of her the more steamy the dreams got. Sasuke was a man so he couldn't really control it but it did make it difficult to tell himself not to see her. It had been at least two weeks since he last saw her just outside of the village and he fought hard not to remember.
Sasuke had finally taken it upon himself to wear the green vest that he had always wanted. It was a secret that he idolized himself wearing one as a youngster and he was even sporting the Konoha forehead protector. For some reason it made things feel more normal and more in control to know that he was a part of something. Sasuke still had his trusty katana tied to his waist as he usually did. It had been two years since his return… he felt like he deserved the green vest.
As Konoha grew nearer, all three men were able to see the festivities had already begun. The entire village was decorated with Japanese lanterns, streamers, and the street vendors were open later than usual. The streets were packed with different games such as catching beta fish in a tank and then taking them home in a baggie filled with water. Many of the shops and restaurants were open with free treats and goodies to celebrate the 'crowning' of the new Hokage.
Naruto had thought of it especially with morale being somewhat low in the village for some time. There had been much hard ship within the past year and now things were settling. There would always be chaos in the world but at least this gesture offered some kind of comfort for the village people. ... Of course he also requested there be free ramen for much of the night for his own gluttony.
"Alright Akamaru! Let's go!" Kiba shouted and pointed onwards as they raced through the gate. "Shikamaru, as of now I'm officially off."
"Ch…" Shikamaru said as both he and Sasuke trailed behind and up the pavement. "If the festivities weren't going on, I would say we should meet with Tsunade-sama but… she is no longer Hokage."
Those words went in one ear and right out the other as Sasuke shoved his hands into his pockets. The mission was basically a success so he didn't really care what the Hokage would say—Tsunade or Naruto. Sasuke began to work his way through the crowd of people who were filing up and down the main street.
The village folk were dressed in their celebratory kimonos so there were bright colors every which way Sasuke looked. It brought back memories of seeing Hinata as a little girl in her Hyuuga kimono which only caused his patience with himself to diminish. I just need a god damn drink. He forcefully shoved himself through the masses until the loudness of laughter caught his attention.
Sasuke used that as reference to find the sake stands which were set up all along the streets. People were everywhere swarming the stands and having a grand ol' time. It only poked and prodded at the fact that Sasuke was unable to mentally be a part of something like that… he was unable to allow himself the fun. His mindset refused even though his playful side pleaded. It's just a waste. Sasuke would just remind himself that creating friends was a waste. Everything was a waste… mostly.
He managed to squeeze his way into a seat at a stand and much to his surprise, there were bottles all set up on the countertop for grabs. A smirk formed on his lips as he reached out to grab one and a saucer. Perfect… Although he never cared for large crowds, free booze was free booze. And it tasted simply amazing as it usually did.
There was always someone new next to him every time he looked; seats were constantly being filled with the next few men who clearly didn't need any more alcohol. Sasuke sat just listening to the drunken conversations around him of nagging wives, bills, or the constant missions being assigned. What a bunch of shit. Sasuke was glad that he didn't have to deal with a wife. His bills were minimal because it was just him to take care of. And Sasuke welcomed the large load of missions. All those things were the common complaint of men these days and he was glad he didn't have to deal with that mundane crap.
At least that was what he told himself. Returning to Konoha was his first silent plea for help. Allowing someone like Hinata into his heart was another red flag. And feeling the sorrow for his brother's death was the last nail in the coffin. Uchiha Sasuke was tired of the constant inconsistency. Deep down inside, he wanted to come home to a wife… a family… a family that came with bills… a family who he wanted to devote his time to so that missions become a nuisance. Just like his Father and Mother had. He missed the complexity of having that.
Deep down, Uchiha Sasuke wanted that mundane normal life. He never did have that...ever. Not as a young boy and not as a grown man. Instead of changing that, he drank his alcohol every night, trained with a hangover, went on a few missions and repeated.
Someone sat down next to him but this time Sasuke recognized the presence off the bat. He let the warmness of the alcohol sit in his mouth before swallowing it. Nothing was being said which was fine. Sasuke reached to grab the bottle, but someone else grabbed it before him. His eyes slowly closed then he crossed his arms.
"I already told you." Sasuke said firmly.
"Ahh, I know." Hatake Kakashi said with a hidden smile. "You are no longer apart of Team Seven, but now neither is Naruto."
Sasuke shrugged his shoulders and watched Kakashi swish the alcohol around in the bottle. He then rolled his eyes before snatching the bottle from his former sensei and poured more into his saucer.
"Yeah, good for him." He muttered after he set his cup down. Kakashi's half lidded eye zeroed in on the Uchiha with an eyebrow slightly raised.
"How is the Mangekyo treating you?" Kakashi asked over the crowd's loud talking. Sasuke disliked this conversation mainly because it was prying into his own business. At least Kakashi had an idea of what he was going through. He poured more into his cup and then casually sipped before calculating a response.
"I haven't used it." He said. Kakashi brought a hand up to scratch his chin thoughtfully then re-positioned his forehead protector.
"Well. That's good news, then, eh?"
Sasuke didn't respond. The small talk was annoying and Kakashi should have known better than to try to drag this out. He squeezed shut his eyes after another surge of pain sent a shockwave through his body. Sasuke rubbed his forehead warily but tried not to let it show. Kakashi frowned as he leaned forward to rest on his elbows.
"Sasuke," he said. "You should ask Tsunade about this."
"I'm fine." Sasuke said sharply as he opened his eyes to shoot a glare in his direction. Kakashi's eyes remained locked onto him, but after a few seconds he looked down at his hands. Sometimes he wondered how Sasuke's stubbornness got him this far but it was probably the same reason why he was still alive. Sasuke was stubborn enough to cheat death but also stubborn enough to slowly kill himself as well.
"If you don't seek help, you could lose your eyesight." Kakashi said as he stood up from his seat. "And as a Konoha ninja we can afford to lose you again."
Sasuke snorted into his drink and he could feel his body warming up to the alcohol. It was amusing because he was surprised that even after all these years the people around this village still looked out for him. But at the same time it made the taste in his mouth even more bitter despite the sweet sake.
"I don't understand why you all give a damn so much." Sasuke said with his voice slightly slurred. Kakashi put his hands into his pockets and heaved a heavy sigh.
"Sasuke, it's about time you realize we are not your enemies." Kakashi said. "If you thought we were, why have you stuck around so long?"
Sasuke narrowed his eyes in frustration only because he didn't have an answer to give. He didn't even have a smart ass response. He knew that people genuinely cared for him and he wanted so desperately to be okay with that. His whole mentality was messed up which was why he thought that pushing Hinata away was the best option.
"Naruto was hoping to see you today."
"…" Sasuke was hesitant to give in to the guilty conscious, but for some reason he felt his curiosity growing. The possibilities were endless with Naruto so he dismissed his thoughts.
"Where is he?"
"The Hokage Building." Kakashi's one eye moved to stare at the large building in the distance. Sasuke raised an eyebrow in surprise; knowing that there was free ramen it was especially odd that the Uzumaki was not partaking in the festivities. Sasuke ran a hand through his hair; he was a mess and in need of a shower but that could all wait until tomorrow. The warm feeling of the sake was heaven and his mood was beginning to lighten.
"Fine." Sasuke turned to the counter, downed what was left in his cup, and then grabbed another full bottle for the road. Standing up, Sasuke forced himself into the large crowd around the alcohol stands. People were laughing and cheering and it was all for Naruto, the former black sheep of the village. Things were certainly different. If someone told him on his day of graduating the Academy that the idiot Uzumaki Naruto would be the Hokage, he would have laughed.
Of course, if someone would have told him he would be falling in love with the quiet Hyuuga Hinata, he also would have laughed. Sasuke never really realized how far apart they really had been until just a few years ago. He barely ever thought of her throughout his life even when they could have become good friends as children. Sasuke was so wrapped up in his own life, his own mess and his own grief to really pay attention to anything else. Oh fuck, you've really gotten soft.
The closer he got to the Hokage Building, the quieter it was. He glanced upwards to see a light on within what used to Tsunade's office. Sasuke lifted the bottle to his lips and took a quick swig before heading up the stone steps. He had never really been inside the building after hours. There were a few times when he was working at the library they worked later than usual, but this was pretty late.
Sasuke approached the Hokage's office door and then simply barged in. It was a strange sight to see—Naruto sitting at the desk with a large amount of scrolls strewn in front of him. His expression at first was strained but upon seeing the Uchiha he cracked that usual smile.
"Gotta say, I'm surprised you're here." Naruto said before stifling a yawn. Sasuke shrugged his shoulders and walked into the room.
"Yeah, well, I'm surprised you're here too." Sasuke said truthfully before easing himself into a chair in front of the desk. Naruto leaned back and stretched his arms.
"You and everyone else, eh?" Naruto said with a slight laugh. "The Old Lady made it look so easy. I've been Hokage for six hours and I'm already swamped with things."
Sasuke took another drink before leaning forward with the bottle. He held it out to Naruto who scratched the back of his head almost unsure if he was allowed to.
"Oh what the hell." Naruto said with a grin and grabbed the bottle. "She did it all the time here!"
For about an hour, they talked. More or less, Naruto did. Sasuke would occasionally make a snarky comment, but luckily he was saying more than usual thanks to the alcohol in his system. They talked about their past endeavors, future endeavors, and the ideas Naruto had for the village of Konoha. Although the expression on Sasuke's face remained blank, inside his mind was swimming. As a kid, Sasuke would have debated on how he could outsmart Naruto to prove he was better. As an adult, he thought about how Naruto's ideas would truly benefit Konoha. There was a lull in the conversation as Naruto shook his head to another offering of sake.
"So, I about fell outta my damn chair when I was looking at some of your stuff," Naruto said as he nervously began to move piles of papers on his desk. "I completely forgot you were still a Chuunin!"
Sasuke shrugged and downed the last of the sake in his bottle before tossing it in the trash can. The last time he had been promoted was about a year ago when he and Hinata had gone on their mission. For a while it bothered him as he had definitely proved himself worthy of being at least a Jounin, but his mind had been so bogged down with personal issues he had simply stopped thinking about it.
"Yeah, so?" He muttered and crossed his arms on his chest. Naruto smirked and grabbed a scroll from one of his desk drawers. He playfully tossed it towards the Uchiha, who caught it curiously. Sasuke opened it slowly and it was an official request for Sasuke to become a part of the ANBU.
"Well, we were talking and at first I thought let's promote you up to a Jounin and-"
"We?"
"Oh. I asked Hinata about it the other day since I was in the library going through files." Naruto said. Sasuke felt his cheeks burn even more upon hearing her name. The guilt was always present in the back of his mind but now it was on full force. He didn't let it show, however, and instead he stared hard at the writings on the scroll.
"She thought you'd be a hell of a member for the ANBU and I agreed. Plus, since you aren't married and it's just you it would be a good fit. You qualify for it."
Sasuke stared at the document almost unsure of how he should feel. Hinata had basically been responsible for his career the past two years. And had it have been presented to him two years ago, he would have immediately accepted. Now, he was unsure and he didn't know why. The words not married bothered him also for other reasons and he rolled the scroll back up.
"Well?" Naruto asked with a smile. Sasuke let his arms rest on his knees while he leaned forward in his chair. He began to feel angry at himself yet again. What the hell is the matter with you? Accept. She isn't a part of your life anymore.
"Maybe." Sasuke said dryly before standing up. His balance was off key but he managed to grip onto the chair. Naruto seemed surprised by his response but he grinned nonetheless.
"Well, I guess let me know. I got plenty of other crap to tend to before I gotta get the new ANBU recruits going."
Sasuke didn't say good-bye; he just simply walked away as he usually did. He was anxious for the cool air of outside and since the sun was gone completely, Sasuke could see his breath fog up in the night sky. His body was hot and he didn't feel like going back into the crowd as the festival was still going on strong. He decided to take some side streets to get home which appeared to be easier at the time.
But as he went, Sasuke still encountered people and even children as they ran excitedly through the village. He had never been interested in children before but he observed them as he walked. It was the same images of him as a child causing all sorts of harmless trouble. Sasuke began to wonder if his life would always be this way.
He always told himself upon certain situations 'when I get married and have kids, it will be different' but he knew deep down it wouldn't be that way. The path he was walking would always be a solitary one. Sasuke wanted it that way. It was easier or at least it seemed that way, but as the days went it got more difficult. Did he really want it that way or did he just figure it should be that way?
Sasuke knew it was the alcohol that was fueling these thoughts and he just wanted to get home. A familiar voice up ahead snapped him from his haze and he stopped walking to see Hyuuga Hinata. She was several feet down the street dressed in a light blue kimono with her braid wrapped up into a bun on top of her head.
He would have been more interested in her beautiful appearance but there was a man talking to her and it made his eyes narrow. His stomach began to feel sick with jealousy. The man was obviously attempting to flirt with her and he was getting closer to her each time he said something. Hinata's expression was something he had seen before; polite and uncomfortable. Before her, he had never really had a protective streak unless it would also cause him harm. This had nothing to do with him; even though Hinata could protect herself he still felt the urge to keep her out of harms way- in and out of battle. Sasuke watched the man reach out to touch her arm and she pulled back slightly.
"I really must be going." Hinata said with a small smile as she started to walk away. The man frowned and drunkenly grabbed her wrist.
"Aw, come on." He said. "I just want to ta-"
The man didn't have a chance to finish his sentence because Sasuke had planted a firm fist into his jaw. Hinata gasped and backed up slightly as the man staggered. There was a blur of red that she saw from his eyes and it made her feel sick.
"Who the fuck…!?" He said as he rubbed his chin. "Oh you picked the wrong person to mess with!"
The man went to swing at Sasuke, but before he could comprehend the situation, the man was on the ground with his face being shoved harshly in the concrete. He began to fuss and struggle which only made Sasuke pull back even harder onto the man's arm behind him.
"Leave her alone." Sasuke grunted as he tightened his grip. The man was groaning in agony, but he managed to nod. Hinata had her fingers brought to her mouth as she watched Sasuke release him after a few more painful seconds. She looked around as people had stopped celebrating to stare at the controversy in the middle of the street.
"Sasuke-kun…!" Hinata whispered after the man had staggered away. His pupils returned to their normal dull darkness but something didn't feel right as an intense burning sensation spread through his corneas like a wild fire. Sasuke buckled over in pain as he squeezed shut his eyelids. Going back and forth from just his usual Sharingan was extremely painful, but this was like nothing he had ever felt before. He felt her touch on his arms as she knelt down beside him and he almost shoved her awat.
"Get off…" He growled but she dared to ignore him.
"Sasuke-kun, you need help." Hinata said quietly trying to help him to his feet. Sasuke gritted his teeth as the pain had not yet subsided. He tried to open his eyes, but it hurt even more with the bright lights in the streets.
Hinata had nudged herself underneath his armpit and at this point he didn't even care. The pain was unbearable and it was hard not to let it show. He could feel her guiding him through the small crowds and down the streets. It felt like an eternity but even through the pulsating pain in his eyes, Sasuke could smell her lavender scent. The fabric of her kimono was soft and overall her presence was comforting.
Eventually, the bright lights of the festival were fading and the chatter of the crowd was getting distant. He could also feel the wound on his arm from his mission had started to bleed again which was the last of his worries. The words of Kakashi echoed in his mind. If you don't seek help, you could lose your eyesight.
"W-Watch your step." Hinata's soft voice interrupted his fears as they slowly went up a few stairs until he could tell they were inside somewhere. Sasuke was led forward until she stopped.
"Okay, please lie down." Sasuke felt like a blind deer who could barely support his own weight. Hinata helped guide his body down to something soft and the scent of lavender exploded around him. He felt her presence disappear for a moment and he laid there in agony. It felt like acid had been poured into his eye sockets and his eyes were melting. He almost began to panic until her soft fingers cupped his hot cheeks.
"Sasuke-kun…" She whispered and it sent a shiver throughout his entire body. It was a sense of delirium from the pain and the booze and he did not like it. Hinata's touch was the ice cool relief to the fire and her voice was soft as silk. Sasuke hesitated but much to her surprise, he granted her full access of his face. Hinata reached to untie his forehead protector while her fingertips lightly brushed back a few strands of hair until they rested on his left temple.
"I know it hurts, but these drops will help, Sasuke-kun."
It took every ounce of energy for him to relax his eyebrows and slowly open his eye lids to a few droplets of the medicine she had. At first it burned and he moved his head, but it very slowly began to ease the pain until after ten minutes, it was just a slight buzz of discomfort. Hinata was still leaning over him with her fingers wiping away access droplets and watering of his eyes.
Sasuke felt the madness subside; he would have cut his own eyes out if she hadn't been there. Even though the pain in his corneas disappeared, the guilt that sat in his stomach remained. He didn't want to keep living his life alone. He didn't want to keep himself in prison any longer. Hinata had put up with him day and night not saying one word of displeasure towards him. Perhaps all along she was protecting him... not from evil or danger but from himself. She was allowing him to lay there in silence while he pieced together his sanity.
Sasuke had his eyes remained shut until he felt more at ease. The darkness was beginning to grow wary so he very cautiously opened them to see a blurry image of Hinata. Those light eyes that he had missed so much were peering down at him as relief spilled over her face. She smiled slightly and retracted her hands from his face.
"I-Is it better?" Hinata asked gently. Sasuke didn't answer; he just stared at her. Hinata was naturally pretty. Her face was always smooth of any imperfections. Her skin was pale, her lips were pink, and there was even a hint of some make up that he had never noticed before. He could see her cheeks getting red as he stared, so Sasuke nodded slightly before sitting up on the couch. He could still feel the effects of the alcohol in his system so he was still a bit whoozy.
He glanced around at his surroundings when he realized this must have been Hinata's loft. Everything was simple but also slightly elegant at the same time. It was no secret that the Hyuuga clan was also a well-off clan. Hinata frowned and sat down next to him before pointing to his arm.
"You're bleeding." She said grasping his wrist to pull back his sleeve. He glared at her and resisted for a moment, but he figured it had been unattended to for better half of 24 hours. It needed to be properly cleaned and wrapped. Hinata pulled back his sleeve and inspected his forearm where the gash was. Standing up, she disappeared down a hallway which gave Sasuke a chance to try to sober himself up.
He rubbed his forehead which responded with a dull ache as is eyes were still a bit sensitive. The room was spinning and his body was still warm. Hinata had returned shortly with a roll of gauze and some ointment as she sat down once again next to him.
Sasuke unwillingly allowed her to clean the wound on his arm which wasn't nearly as painful as his eyes had been. He had a hard time not staring at her while she worked. Sasuke missed her. It was plain and simple. Even though it was his idea to stay far away from her, he was glad that he was there with her. In fact, he couldn't think of anywhere else he'd rather be. As she finished wrapping the new gauze and tying it off, Hinata smiled at her work. Sasuke frowned and leaned back against the cushions of the couch.
"I just wanted to thank you for getting rid of that man earlier." Her voice broke the heavy silence. He half-heartedly shrugged his shoulders and closed his eyes. Sasuke suddenly felt tired. The mission had taken a toll on him, he was still slightly drunk and the extreme change with his eyes was also exhausting. Sleep was what he needed.
Hinata watched him for a moment. The green vest looked handsome on him and it was also nice to see him wearing his forehead protector earlier. His voice echoed in her mind from a few weeks ago. We aren't friends. We weren't friends. She frowned and looked down at her hands in her lap.
"W-Well, you are more than welcome to sleep on this couch tonight." Her voice had returned to that formal, stiff and polite tone he hated. Sasuke felt the cushions next to him move as she had stood up. He suddenly reached out to grab her wrist and he pulled her back. Hinata felt herself falling backwards into his arms and she almost felt scared. Scared of this situation, scared of his reaction, scared of his touch.
The roughness of his vest rubbed up against her cheek as his arms wrapped around her. She could hear his steady breaths while his chin rested against her forehead. Hinata was half in his lap and half on the couch, but she didn't resist as she had done so in previous embraces.
"S-Sasuke-kun," she whispered almost unsure of what to do. He pulled back to look at her and he could see the hesitation in her eyes. She was so close to him and it felt amazing. His heart was beating fast and the rest of his body was following suit with hormones of having the woman he adored in his arms.
Hinata normally would have felt like she was under a microscope as he stared into her eyes, but it was what she had been dreaming about for so long. He reached out to cup her cheek and then leaned in slowly. Hinata gasped lightly and turned her head. Sasuke furrowed his eyebrows in confusion.
"S-Sasuke-kun… you s-said…" Her voice was faltering and he frowned as she continued. "I-I can't…"
"Who cares what I said?" Sasuke said with a bit of frustration. "I was doing what I thought was right."
"I care." She whispered staring into his bloodshot eyes. Sasuke was messing with her feelings and it was hurtful. He searched her face for something to say, but he knew that she was right. After several seconds Sasuke felt as if he was defeated.
"I…" He tried to think of the right words to say but he really wasn't good with this kind of stuff. "…am sorry."
Hinata blinked at this unsure of what to think. She could tell he was struggling but she could also tell that he was drunk… again. Sasuke could only open up to her when he was under the influence of alcohol. What would he say tomorrow? Or the next day? Would he throw it back in her face claiming that it was all a lie? She pursed her lips and thought back to another reason keeping her from completely allowing Sasuke in.
"I-It's okay… um." She paused as his fingers brushed her cheek. "Sasuke-kun… I-I'm leaving Konoha."
Those words, at first, took a second to sink in but soon his mind caught up and it was almost a sobering experience. His eyebrows furrowed and he stared at her in almost disbelief. Leaving? Leaving Konoha? Leaving your home? Leaving… me? Her expression was somber as she sat still in his arms. Those eyes were avoiding his and instead were focusing on a loose button on his vest.
"Why?" It was all he could muster up until her gaze returned to his. Inside he was panicking because he knew that this was where he needed to be… this was where she needed to be. They simply needed to be. Sasuke had messed up badly. He had been selfish. Almost all of his actions were for the betterment of his life whether it was helping him track down Itachi or making him stronger.
Sasuke was finally seeing that he was an adult. He was no longer a child who was, although strong, very naïve about his life. He had hurt many people and even though he never showed it, it still kept him up at night. Sasuke wasn't one to apologize, but simply being around Naruto seemed to prove enough. He had come to realize that he was a lucky individual who had people who still deeply cared for him… including Hinata.
"The Sand contacted Tsunade-sama about a week ago. They requested some assistance with their department that runs all confidential documents and such. It had been badly neglected." Hinata said gently. "Tsunade-sama thought it would be good for me to leave Konoha… at least for a while. They have contracted this mission out for a year."
Good for her to leave… because of me. Because of everything. Sasuke's blank expression remained as he stared at her. The little voice in his head popped in to say how this would be the perfect opportunity to take the position of being in the ANBU. This would be the highest rank he could go and that was his goal all along.
"N-Naruto-kun told me you were going to be a part of the ANBU." Hinata said as if reading his mind. She offered a small and sad smile. "That's good news. Isn't that what you wanted?"
Sasuke remained quiet. It was what he had wanted. Was. Sasuke still held his pride close to him and refused to look like he was struggling with this news. His arms loosened around her and Hinata frowned. This allowed her to crawl from his lap and onto the couch. She sat next to him with her gaze averted.
"When do you leave?" Sasuke asked with a slightly bitter tone. Hinata almost winced at his question. She wasn't especially excited to be leaving Konoha, but it would be a great mission for her to experience. Maybe Tsunade was right; some time away from this village would help heal any emotional wounds. Maybe even Sasuke was right. Things were better for them apart.
"In two days." She whispered. Sasuke nodded slowly and he suddenly began to feel the full effects of the alcohol wearing off. There was a sour feeling in his stomach, his head felt heavy and his eyes were exhausted. This situation was his fault. Had he of just allowed someone into his heart, perhaps Hinata would have stayed. Had he of just killed Kabuto when he had the chance, Hiashi would still be alive. Had he of just stayed in Konoha as a kid and forgot his vengeance, things would be different.
Without a word, Sasuke stood up and walked out of Hinata's loft. He had never had a heart ache or ever really thought about things such as this. No woman had ever really been this close to him romantically except maybe Sakura, which wasn't saying much. He had been selfish for far too long. If this was something that Hinata wanted to do, then he would let her. If leaving this village and leaving this situation would ease her mind, then so be it. If not being with him helped, then he wouldn't stand in her way.
Contrary to her own beliefs, he wasn't bitter with her. Sasuke was just bitter anyway and most of it was from his own actions. He had grown tired of the aimless anger and that was also a part of the problems. Sasuke wasn't even sure if he wanted to say good-bye. He wouldn't know what to say or what to do. Maybe within the year she was gone, he would be able to figure it out. Or maybe he would even be able to move on.
"A year is a long time, you know, Hinata." Hanabi pointed out the obvious as she watched her older sister pack her bags yet again. Hinata couldn't help but let a slight laugh escape her lips as she was folding shirts that were sprawled out all over her bed.
"Yes it is." She said with a smile. Her braid dangled in front of her as her arms worked to move a neat pile of folded shirts into her duffle bag. It was also stuffed full with other clothes and belongings Hinata had rounded up to take with her to Suna.
Even though Hinata's loft was no Hyuuga mansion, it was considered modest with only having room for the basics. Others might find it extravagant but it was home for Hinata. Hanabi stepped over piles of clothes to gently ease herself onto the bed. Her stomach was just beginning to show signs of pregnancy which meant her hours as the leader of the Hyuuga had been tweaked for resting. She slipped a lock of hair behind her ears and glanced back to Hinata.
"I wouldn't be able to be gone for that long… even if I wasn't head of the clan." Hanabi said through a slow sigh. "I would miss my husband too much."
Hinata's smile slowly waned at the jab that Hanabi poked at her without even realizing it. Hinata was 25 years old and without a husband. Things weren't as traditional as they were in the past whereas her parents had wedded at very young ages… as young as Hanabi had been. She shrugged off that feeling as she wasn't the only one who had yet to exchange vows with someone.
In fact, there wasn't much marriage going on between any of them. It almost seemed like the Rookie Nine were just slowly dancing around that fact… they had loves and longed to be with someone although it was on the back burner much of the time. She recalled Kiba talking about getting married yesterday at training and it caused her stomach to flop. It wasn't jealousy that caused it; it was the inevitable change that was happening.
"I'm glad that Neji-niisan is going with you to make sure you get there alright." Hanabi said as her hand rubbed her stomach curiously. Hinata leaned back a bit to stretch her back and then she stifled a yawn.
Sleep was a struggle. The anxiety was mingled with excitement ever since she hesitantly agreed to take the mission from Tsunade. There were the nerves of being away from home and essentially being a stranger amongst the village of Suna. There was also excitement to discover new cultures and history. Of course, it was also a nice excuse to get away from distractions… distractions that caused hurt.
"He wasn't too thrilled of the idea of me being gone for so long… especially knowing that I will be dealing with a whole other country." Hinata said after a pause to think. "Suna is our ally and they need assistance."
Hinata recalled Tsunade calling her into a meeting which she found strange off the bat. Usually Team Kurenai was reserved for special missions that involved using their scouting abilities not to mention Hinata was the only one called forward. Suna had been facing some internal issues with important documents and they needed assistance with re-organizing.
Gaara was also wary of a small village even further west of Suna that was gaining momentum to become an enemy. A secret source had come forth to reveal the village was interested in getting their hands on secret Suna tactics as well as their ninjas' personal information. It was vital that they figure out a way to secure their documents before it was too late.
At first, Hinata was unsure knowing that Suna would be open for an attack but Tsunade had ruled that out. This village in question was very small and didn't have the proper resources to go up against a larger and more experienced village such as Suna. In fact, having Hinata there would remain a secret outside of Konoha.
"You won't be in any danger, will you?" Hanabi interrupted Hinata's deep thoughts and she looked up from her things.
"Well… even if there was, I am trained to fight." Hinata said gently almost doubting herself for a second. Hanabi frowned upon seeing her going back to her folding. She reached out and touched Hinata's arm with a concerned look.
"Yes, Hinata, you are trained to fight for Konoha. Would you be more comfortable with Neji staying with you?" Hanabi's voice was firm and it was almost unnerving to see her little sister feel so strongly about it.
"N-No that is not necessary. It really isn't supposed to be a mission with battles but more of a diplomatic gesture to show that as allies, we can work together." Hinata said while running her fingers through her bangs. "Besides, Naruto-kun trusts Gaara and that I will be in good hands."
Hanabi's lips remained a thin line but she retracted her arm back to her lap. As children their relationship was strained but even in Hanabi's immature moments of weakness, Hinata was still there to support her. Even when she had taken one of the most important things from her, Hinata's strength didn't falter… at least from the outside.
"Well, you better make sure to come back when this baby is born." Hanabi said with a small smile as she rubbed her stomach.
"Of course. I will try to visit as often as I ca—"
"What ever happened to Uchiha Sasuke?"
"W-What?"
Hanabi smirked away any innocence that she had at that moment and crossed her arms. Hinata felt her cheeks go red and she looked away to hide her embarrassment. Her sister tapped her index finger on her lips awaiting a response but when there wasn't one she sighed slightly.
"He's certainly got that… tall, dark and handsome thing to him." Hanabi said. Hinata frowned and zipped up her bag. In just thinking about him made her feel uneasy… just thinking about him made her second guess this entire thing.
"Last I heard he was asked to be a part of ANBU." Hinata said with a quiet and firm tone. She began to pick up around her room knowing that tomorrow morning would be the last time she would be here for a whole year. Hanabi watched her curiously her smirk slowly fading.
"Did you not tell him?" She asked suddenly. Hinata straightened her back from picking up clothes from the floor and she looked over her shoulder.
"T-Tell him what?"
"Oh, come on." Hanabi said standing up slowly before descending across the room to Hinata. "Please don't tell me that he hurt you."
Hinata shifted uncomfortably as this was obviously not her topic of choice. Even when her admiration for Naruto was strong, she disliked discussing it mainly because it put her in the spotlight. She would much rather sit in the corner and watch rather than engage in the whole 'romance' thing. It was probably something that would hinder her because Sasuke was somewhat slow as it was.
"No, he did not. We just happened to be working together and going on the same missions for a while." She said avoiding her sister's gaze before returning several articles of clothing to her closet. Hanabi shrugged her shoulders a bit.
"Well, I should be going… There is a meeting this evening to address some renovations to the district." She said. Hinata walked over to her sister and brushed a wisp of hair from Hanabi's forehead.
"I will try to come and visit soon…" Hinata murmured with a small smile. Her hand reached out to rub on Hanabi's small belly. "Father would have been so excited."
Hanabi looked up to Hinata's face and her eyes began to fill with tears. She didn't say anything to which Hinata understood. Neither sibling needed to be strong in front of each other. They knew it was difficult enough to do in front of strangers. Holding one's head up high gets tiring after a while so this was a nice relief.
It was still dark out when Neji knocked on her door that morning. His expression was void of any emotion so it was hard to gauge whether he was moody or not. Hinata usually had a pretty good idea by the words he used and this morning his responses were short. Neji was against her departure and was simply there to escort her there. The journey would take them several days and even though there was little to no threat, it was nice to have a safety net.
Hinata didn't have much to bring with her; just a duffle bag which meant the trip would be light. She recalled back to the mission to Suna several months prior to this moment. There was the dry and unbearable heat during the day and the shivering cold snap as soon as the sun disappeared. It would certainly be another shock to the body which she would get used to after a few weeks or so.
"You are sure you want to go through with this?" Neji asked one more time. Hinata slung the straps of her bag over her shoulders and rearranged her braid so it didn't get caught. Her eyes rested on her cousin and the scar around his eye.
"Are you sure you will be okay going back?" Hinata countered gently. Neji's features slowly became irritated as his strength was put into question although it was a normal concern. After bringing back Kabuto's body, it was decided to give Hiashi's eye to Neji who was struggling with only half of his Byakugan.
The surgery went well although Tsunade warned him that on occasion it might falter as it had been damaged from Kabuto's Ni Bijon. There was a 30% chance of it failing upon activating but it was better than having only half of it working.
"I will be fine." Neji said with a slightly stubborn tone. Hinata smiled warmly and much to his surprise she threw her arms around him. He felt his own cheeks grow warm at the sudden touch as he was not the type of person to welcome it. Neji was stiff at first but knowing that Hinata would be gone for quite some time he awkwardly returned the hug. He realized this was probably the first time he had ever embraced his cousin; it only took over 20 years.
By the time they had left Hinata's home, the sun was shining brightly with early morning frost still twinkling on the grass. Konoha was just waking up with vendors setting up for the day and Hinata began to feel nervous again. She could feel something hitch in her throat as she wondered if it would still be the same when she returned.
Hinata had been on missions that lasted several weeks at the most but she couldn't remember being gone from home for very long. More second guesses ran through her mind but she knew that Naruto was depending on her and it wouldn't look good on him if she backed out. Hinata took a deep breath as the gates leading out from Konoha began to come into view.
Waiting at the gates was a crowd of people who caused a smile to spread onto her face. Most of the Rookie Nine were there to say good-bye including the Hokage… Uzumaki Naruto. Not much had changed with the blonde haired man except that he stood taller with confidence and that grin had remained.
"Ahh, Hinata! I figured you needed a nice good-bye before you headed over to the Sand." He said with a thumbs up. Her face was beaming and blushing at the sudden attention. Everyone from her team was present as well as others like Shikamaru and Sakura.
"Wow… this wasn't necessary." Hinata said with a smile. Naruto crossed his arms as Akamaru began to circle Hinata at her feet. She looked up to see everyone and a sudden wave of sadness washed over her. These were her friends and they were very important to her… but there was someone missing from that group. It wasn't a surprise because according to Uchiha Sasuke, they weren't friends.
Naruto frowned seeing her sudden change in mood and he knew the cause of it. But to diffuse the situation, he walked up towards Hinata and put an arm around her. This caused her cheeks to become even warmer as he grinned.
"Now, I know how much you're going to miss the ramen here in Konoha, so that's why I made sure that Gaara had it covered!" He said which caused Hinata's small smile to return.
"Naruto, I think you're the only person who enjoys ramen." Sakura said irritably as she crossed her arms. Naruto shrugged his shoulders and his arm fell back to his side. His blue eyes looked at Hinata as a more serious expression emerged.
"You will be in good hands, Hinata. Gaara gave me his word. In fact, you're probably safer there than you are here, knowing him." Naruto said.
"I'm not worried." She said re-adjusting the straps from her bag and making sure to give a convincing smile. Kiba pulled Hinata into a hug and his stubble scratched her forehead.
"I'm gonna miss having someone to tease during training." Kiba said as Hinata pulled away. "Shino isn't very fun to be around."
If Shino wasn't so covered behind his glasses and coat, one might see a slight glare from the Aburame. Hinata smiled slightly and turned to look at him. He was also not one to be very touch-y feel-y mainly because of the hundreds of bugs crawling around on him.
"Hinata," He said. "Take this." His hand lifted up to her and a small bug crawled from within the confinement of his sleeve and to his fingertip. It took flight and she watched it curiously land on the bag behind her.
"Shino-kun, I will be fine…" She said although he ignored her.
"It is just in case. If anything does happen, that way I can know." He said.
"Hinata-sama…" Neji said quietly reminding her of their tight schedule. They agreed the trip would take about three days if they left at dawn. She glanced over her shoulder and nodded.
"T-Thank you everyone for seeing me off." Hinata said. "I'm sure the year will fly by…"
Other good-byes between her friends were quick and even though she was very happy to see them before she left, she couldn't help but feel that Sasuke's presence was weighing heavily on her. He had tried to convince her they didn't have a friendship or that there was no relationship there, but even Sasuke had been unsure himself.
Hinata and Neji eventually made their way through the gates of Konoha and she turned to wave good-bye. Her heart ached as she looked back and tears began to form silently in her eyes. She blinked them away and looked forward. It was a new chapter for her and a new experience.
A nostalgic feeling hit her like a ton of bricks and Hinata stopped walking. Neji took a few steps before also stopping and he looked at her.
"What is it?" He asked. She looked over her shoulder back at Konoha and she could feel someone watching her. It was the same feeling she got whenever Sasuke's icy eyes would stare at her. There was something about it that always sent a shiver down her spine. She didn't need her Byakugan to know that he was around and watching her leave… and in his own way saying good-bye.