In the five months they've dated, neither one has been introduced to their significant other's friends and family. It was something Hinata has been thinking about for a while now but didn't know how to approach the subject. Since fall semester ended, they have time to hang out and go on dates. Not only that, but Christmas was approaching as well as her birthday. She wonders if Naruto remembers her birthday. She smiled at the memory of his birthday. His family took him out to eat breakfast and she has requested if she can steal him for half a day. Of course his parents didn't complain so she surprised him by taking him to a nearby amusement park. She has never laughed so much like she did that day. It was so much fun considering that they both were scared of heights but still went on the roller coasters with big drops. When they entered the haunted house, however, Naruto was glued to her side and would hug her tightly when a figurine would pop out. Afterwards, he confessed that he was scared of ghosts and didn't want to tell her because he didn't want to look like a baby in front of her.
She finished doing her bed and stretched, the morning was a welcoming to her. She was always a morning person after all. She looked at the picture frame she has beside her bed and picked it up; looking at Naruto's smiling face. They took this picture right after she gave him her gift. It was a simple crystal necklace. She managed to find a jewelry store where they can engrave a message in the crystal. The message was I love you and Naruto practically hugged her out of air when he saw it. He promised to surprise her in the most amazing way possible for her birthday and she wouldn't lie if she said she was anticipating her birthday this year.
After changing and eating breakfast, she brushed her teeth and decided to text Naruto. She's been opening up to him more and she'll always pat herself in the back when she tells him something that's bothering her or vent out her stressful problems. She didn't want to be a bother but he's always reassured her that he wants to hear about her problems and help her in any way possible. He was so sweet.
To: The Best Boyfriend Ever (:
From: My Beautiful Girlfriend
Good morning Naruto, are you awake?
To: My Beautiful Girlfriend
From: The Best Boyfriend Ever (:
Yeah, I'm awake. My asshole of a friend woke me up at like six today
To: The Best Boyfriend Ever (:
From: My Beautiful Girlfriend
Oh I'm sorry to hear that. Um, if you have time now can I ask you something?
To: My Beautiful Girlfriend
From: The Best Boyfriend Ever (:
Sure babe. Whatever u want
To: The Best Boyfriend Ever (:
From: My Beautiful Girlfriend
Can you meet my family and friends? I'll love to meet yours too! I mean if you want to of course.
To: My Beautiful Girlfriend
From: The Best Boyfriend Ever (:
Sure babe! If u want we can meet my parents 2morrow since they'll be home all day. I don't know about meeting my friends but I'll see when they're available. U just tell me when I can meet your family and friends. They're not scary right?
To: The Best Boyfriend Ever (:
From: My Beautiful Girlfriend
No, they're not scary. And thank you so much, my love! If they try to do something, I promise to protect you. I love you.
To: My Beautiful Girlfriend
From: The Best Boyfriend Ever (:
No problem. Gtg, imma be driving in the freeway. Txt u later. Love you.
Throughout his drive to work, Naruto couldn't stop thinking about what his girlfriend asked for and why the hell did he agree to do it! Hell, he wasn't going to meet her family until she tells him when and he's already nervous! He's positive that his family is going to accept Hinata with open arms—they've shown dislike for his other girlfriends but Hinata has a way to make everyone feel comfortable—but his friends? Not so much. They might accept Hinata but with too much eager enthusiasm. They were the type of men who are ready to pounce any women who gives them the chance to fuck them. Hinata—his sweet, sweet Hinata—is sometimes oblivious to the looks men give her and the flirts they'll say to her. Should he just lie and say that they're not available or should he just be extra protective of his girlfriend when she meets them?
His nervousness about the situation was subsided during his work and it hit him once more when he was on his break. He wiped the sweat that has accumulated on his forehead and dug out his phone, deciding to call his parents about tomorrow's events.
"Hello?"
"Mom, what's up?"
"Nothing much sweetie, just cleaning the house and afterwards I'll probably watch my favorite show." He heard his dad talking in the background and he smiled.
"Is dad there? Can you put me on speaker? I need to tell you both something." He heard a click and when his mom gave him the affirmative, he decided it was now or never. "So my girlfriend wants to meet you guys and I told her she can drop by tomorrow. Is that okay?" He heard his mom squeal in excitement and he pulled his phone away from his ear as his mom started talking miles per minute. After she has cooled down, he spoke up once more. "Don't embarrass me, okay?"
"Of course not sweetie," said his mom. "She's important to you, right? Plus, from what you've told us about her she sounds so sweet!"
"We can't wait to meet her, son," piped in Minato, undoubtedly smiling widely. "It'll be nice to finally meet the future daughter-in-law."
Naruto's face heated up quicker than he thought possible and his heart thundered in his chest. "Dad! Don't laugh!"
"Oh my god, I have a lot of things to do. Minato, start cleaning the house. I'm going to the grocery store to start prepping the food. Bye Naruto!"
She clicked before he can utter a goodbye. He sighed, pocketing his phone before stretching. While he felt nervous another part of him felt excited too. Hinata was going to become an even more important part of his life once he introduces her to his family. And if his parents like her, it'll be a bonus. What his father said kept ringing in his head and, if he was honest with himself, it had a nice ring to it.
"Naruto, time to get back to work!"
He smiled. He's never been so thankful to be an adult.
Hinata fidgeted, fixing her hair for the fifth time. She was nervous, no doubt about it. When she approached Naruto about the subject, she was filled with confidence and she knew that it was now or never. It didn't hit her until today that she's going to be meeting Naruto's parents. What if they don't like her? She shivered at the thought and looked over her attire. She decided not to be too flashy and decided on wearing a simple blouse with pants and flats. She hoped it wasn't too plain for them or maybe too fancy. Oh no, what if she overdressed? What if they think of her as a stubborn woman who's only after their son for sex? Oh no! She turned around to change clothes when she heard a honk from outside. She gulped, knowing Naruto was waiting outside and she came to terms that, after all, she wanted to meet them in the first place. You can do this, Hinata, she thought as she went outside and locked her door. You can do this.
"You look beautiful, babe." Naruto got out of his car and went towards her, hugging her before kissing her on the lips. "Milady, please go in first." He opened the door and even bowed, to Hinata's amusement. She giggled, feeling a bit more at ease and settled inside his car. Before she knew it, they were driving towards her boyfriend's parent's house or her doom. Her hands got clammy the closer they approached their destination. The worst case scenarios popped into her head and she can only imagine how scary rejection will be if they disapprove of her and their relationship. She loves Naruto oh so very much and she wants his parents to approve of her so in the near future, they'll see her as family. At the thought, her face warmed up and she tried her best not to gasp. Marrying Naruto? An image of an older looking Naruto popped into her head with a baby boy in his arms.
"Look, Hinata, our son!"
Their children will surely have their father's eyes because it'll look much better on them than her eyes. She can already hear their laughter and see how they grow up. She can see Naruto and herself growing up together. Buying an apartment and living together. They begin to recognize the other's pattern and learn to read each other's body language without even speaking a word. They'll form a bond like no other and just the thought of it brought tears to her eyes. She blinked them back, shaking the emotional thoughts away. Right now she has to make a good impression to his parents or it will literally ruin her life.
"We're here!" His tone, while oozing with enthusiasm, lacked that extra punch to it. He hesitated before getting out and opening the door for her. He grabbed her hand and led her to the front door. Each step she took she felt a drop of sweat roll down the side of her face. Right now wasn't the time to sweat like a sinner in church!
"Uh, Hinata…before I introduce you to my parents I have to warn you. My mom can be a bit weird."
"How so, Naruto?" She hoped her face didn't show the nervousness she was feeling inside.
"She's just weird so I hope she doesn't freak you out or anything."
She smiled suddenly, noticing how nervous Naruto was too. "Don't worry. I wanted to meet them after all."
He looked into her eyes taking her breath away and he nodded. He opened the door and ushered her inside. It was a simple house with bright colors everywhere. It gave this vibe of a warm and welcoming home.
"Mom, dad, I'm home!"
"Naruto, you're here!"
Hinata can only stare at the beautiful woman before her. She guessed that the older woman was Naruto's mother but since her boyfriend never did show her pictures of his parents it took her off guard how beautiful his mother is. Her long, red hair reached the floor and her tender violet eyes made her blush like crazy. She had a nurturing look to her and Hinata couldn't help but compare her to her own mother.
"Is this your girlfriend, Naruto?"
"Eh…yeah, mom. Hinata, this is my mother, Kushina. Mom, this is Hinata my girlfriend."
"Pleasure to meet you, Mrs. Uzumaki." Hinata hoped that Kushina didn't smell nervousness.
"Aw, that's so polite! You don't hear that much. Naruto, why can't you be like that sometimes?"
"Hey!"
"Minato, Minato! Look at our son's girlfriend. Isn't she so pretty?"
Hinata had to do a double take when Naruto's father entered the room. He looked exactly like his son! Yellow, spiky hair that reached his shoulders and bangs that framed his face; he was an exact copy of Naruto except for a few minor details. His smile was so gentle and it reminded her of her own smile.
"Pleasure to meet you, Hinata. I heard your name from the living room. Please, come in, make yourself at home."
"Thank you." Hinata's timid nature started to crawl back in but she made herself stand a bit taller and raise her chin up high. Fake it till you make it, Hinata. You can do this.
When introductions were settled, Naruto's parents guided her into the kitchen and Kushina started to bring out five different food plates with food that looked appetizing and that smelled like heaven dipped in the most wonderful smell in the world. Hinata's mouth filled with saliva the moment the food touched her tongue and she couldn't help the praises that came out of her mouth. As the time flew by, she felt more comfortable and slowly started to open up to them. She laughed at their jokes and nodded at the correct time in the conversation. Kushina reminded her of Naruto in most of his personality. She was loud yet confident, having this kind of flare in her eyes that made her seem more alive. Minato, however, had no resemblance in his son's personality—maybe little snippets of it—and he would only talk when necessary with such a gentle tone that Hinata thought it was impossible to have for a man. But both of them held a love for each other that made Hinata look away sometimes when they gazed at each other. It was something she hopes she'll have with Naruto someday.
They were now eating dessert and Hinata—such a sweet tooth she is—relished in the chocolate cake her boyfriend's mother made.
"So, Naruto, can I ask you something?" Kushina had a slight smirk with her face. "Where did you meet your sweet girlfriend?"
She nearly choked on her cake.
She heard Naruto swallow and he looked at her in the corner of his eyes. Hinata didn't know what to do. She completely forgot about her work—specifically the type of work she's doing—and didn't really prepare herself for that conversation. Should they lie? No that won't do any good. Oh, she'll look down at Hinata from now on!
"Kushina," cut in Minato, swallowing his bite of the cake and smiles widely, "don't make them sweat. I think our son is about to pass out."
"I just wanted to see if my son will tell me the truth or not." Kushina leaned back on her chair, staring at Naruto intensely.
"What? Mom, what—do you know where Hinata works at?"
"Yeah, Kiba told me the moment you started going." Hinata gulped audibly and Kushina turned her gaze at her. "Sweetie, don't be ashamed of the current work you're doing. It pays good money and no one should judge you because of what you do." Hinata looked up and nodded when Kushina gave her a tender smile.
"Fuck that Kiba! Ugh." Hinata turned to look at her boyfriend who had his face in his hands. "I should never tell him anything."
"He was just happy for you," said Minato, sipping his coffee. "On a different note, Hinata, what do you like to do for you free time?"
Thank god Minato knew when to change subjects. Hinata sent a mental thanks to him.
"Thanks for coming, Hinata! Please come back again soon!" Minato smiled widely and shook her hand.
"Our home is your home now, sweetie. We'll welcome you with open arms." Kushina hugged her tightly before stepping away to stand beside her husband. They waved a final time and closed the door.
"I really liked your parents," said Hinata in their drive back to her studio.
"Yeah? My mom didn't freak you out?"
"Oh no, of course not. She was very sweet. As well as your father."
"Good, I'm happy that you liked them, babe. I'm positive they liked you."
"Really? You're not just saying that to make me feel better, right?"
He laughed. "No, trust me. I'm the worst liar ever. I haven't seen mom so happy ever since I graduated from high school."
"Then I am very happy I brought her that joy."
Once he parked outside of her flat, she couldn't get herself to leave his car. She had the sudden urge to kiss him and to stay by his side until tomorrow's morning woke them up. His hand suddenly grabbed hers and she turned to look at him. He smiled and leaned over, kissing her so sweetly that she smiled in the kiss. They parted and in his eyes she can tell that he was reluctant to leave her side.
"I talked with my friends," he broke her out of her daze, "and they agreed to meet you tomorrow. Sorry if it seems too busy for you. I can rearrange another day if you want."
"It's okay, Naruto. I'm free tomorrow too. I don't have many plans for this winter break." She bit her lip, not wanting to tell him that her birthday is in this month too. She didn't want to sound selfish after all.
"Great! I'll text you tomorrow in the morning on what time I'm going to pick you up. I guess this is goodbye?"
It doesn't have to be, she wants to say. But if she stays with him tonight maybe it'll lead to something more. The thought made her both nervous and excited. She agreed to the idea that having sex with Naruto was no doubt the best decision she has ever made. But she wasn't exactly ready for it.
"Don't worry," she eased him. "You'll see me tomorrow and maybe after that we'll have many dates to look forward to?"
He smiled and kissed her once more before kissing her forehead. "Hell yeah, babe. You'll be mine this whole month. Goodnight then."
"Goodnight." Before she left the car, she turned around to give him a quick peck before closing the door and waving at him from her front door.
Today was a good day and she can only hope that she'll make a good impression with his friends tomorrow too.
The air condition did nothing to cool down her burning cheeks. The day passed too soon for her taste and she is once again inside Naruto's car driving to one of his friend's house. For some reason, she felt more nervous today than yesterday or was she more nervous yesterday than today? She can't honestly remember because it happened so quickly. She finally met his parents and they were such nice and funny people that she can't wait to visit them again. Her family popped into her mind and she forgot to contact them to arrange a meeting between her boyfriend and them. Oh my god, she hasn't told Sakura or Ino too. She's honestly not ready to confront them about the subject yet but she knew that it's going to happen soon.
Back to the matter at hand, she's noticing that Naruto seems tenser today. His eyes were glaring at an unseeing object in the road while his hands gripped the steering wheel. What's bothering him?
"Naruto," started Hinata slowly, gaining his attention, "what's wrong?" Was it because they're going to see his friends?"
"Uh, nothing really, Hinata. I'm just worried about you meeting my friends is all, ya know?"
Why would he be worried? Before she can question her concern, he stopped the car in front of a small house whose lights were on. Even from here, Hinata can hear laughter of men and her heart speeded up. Naruto got out of the car and opened her door, offering her his elbow so she can hold on to him. She complied easily and he closed the door, leading her to towards the house. She squeezed his bicep as he knocked at the door. It swung open and a man greeted them with a wide smile.
"Naruto! What's up man? You came early. Oh, and is this your girlfriend?"
She shrunk away from his leering gaze and Naruto stepped in front of her, blocking her view from the man. "Yeah, she is. Back off, yeah? I just brought her here to meet you guys then we're leaving."
"Aw, what? Naw man come on in. Guys, Naruto's got a fine ass woman!"
It was too late. They pushed them inside and Hinata wrinkled her nose at the overwhelming smell of weed and alcohol. What kind of friends does her boyfriend hang out with? Before she can ponder more, they were pushed to the living room that contained at least five other men. Her heart thundered in her chest as she felt each of their eyes roaming her body. She's felt this before—harassment—and she can only press herself against Naruto more. He brought her closer and wrapped his arm around her waist tightly.
"Hinata, these guys are my friends. Guys, this is my girlfriend Hinata. Now that you guys know each other, we're leaving, ya know. Bye!"
"Bro, don't be like that." One of them grabbed her instead of Naruto. She wanted to pull away from his grasp on her hand but her polite upbringing stopped her from doing so. That doesn't mean, however, that if the situation ever gets out of hand she won't pull out the pepper spray her father had given her for her eighteenth birthday.
"Get your hands off of her." She heard the threatening tone in Naruto's voice and watched as he pushed his friend away. "Honestly I'm fucking done with the way you douche bags are always acting. I'm out."
He started to push her out and she was more than happy to oblige.
"Dude, we just want to meet your girlfriend a bit more. Don't be a cock block."
"Fuck you!" screamed Naruto, making Hinata flinch. This was a bad idea and it was all her fault.
"Look at him, guys." One of the men smirked almost evilly and Hinata was blocked from their view by Naruto. "Fucking dickhead thinks he can boss us around only cause he brought his sweet ass girlfriend to meet us. What's the problem, Naruto? Afraid that she's going to ditch you to fuck one of us?"
Her eyes widened and before she can comprehend any thoughts, someone jumped on the guy who talked and looked at them. His pupils were slits and he had an upside down, red triangle on each of his cheek.
"Run, Naruto!"
She was picked up and faster than she can breathe; she was inside Naruto's car. A few seconds later, the same guy who jumped the foul speaking man got inside, slamming the door and breathing heavily. The door to the house opened and she saw the group of guys coming towards them.
"Drive, Naruto!"
"You don't have to tell me twice, Kiba."
Hinata didn't really understand the situation. Tonight was supposed to go well: she was supposed to meet up with Naruto's friends, making a good impression and end the night with an accomplish smile on her face. Instead, she found out that Naruto hangs around with a bunch of idiots who happen to be perverts. Not only that but they're driving away from them like in some dramatic, cliché chick flick. It was all too much to understand. When Naruto finally stopped, they were in the parking lot of Jack in the Box. They ordered some food through the drive thru and now here they were, eating chicken sandwiches while Hinata burned with questions.
"I wanted to ditch them for a while," said Naruto as he swallowed his piece. "They're assholes, as you can see, babe. So when you asked me to meet them I couldn't say no."
"Why not, Naruto? I wouldn't have minded." Hinata furrowed her brow, feeling guilty that she didn't see this sooner.
"I don't know." He ran his hands over his short hair and looked at her, his eyes burning with a passion that left her breathless. "I didn't want to disappoint you and it's really hard to say no, ya know? I thought they'll let us be but obviously not. Fucking bastards were stripping you with their eyes." He was squishing his sandwich and Hinata placed her hand over his.
"I'm sorry for making you do this, Naruto." She was pained about hurting him. It was all because of her.
"It's not your fault, Hinata!" He turned his body towards her and put the sandwich in the bag. He cupped her face and rubbed his nose against hers. "I should have said no. Now you might think I'm an asshole too, right?"
"Of course not, Naruto!" She kissed him, easing him of his turmoil. She understands how hard it is to move away from a group of friends who you thought were trustworthy and nice.
"Excuse me." The couple jumped away from each other and looked at the third occupant in the car. Kiba was smiling widely and he coughed. He extended his hand for Hinata to shake. "I'm Kiba Inuzuka, friends with that blond idiot there. I'm not an asshole like the rest of them. You can say I was in the same boat like Naruto. It was hard to ditch those dick heads. So it finally felt good beating the shit out of one of them. It's a pleasure to meet you, Hinata."
She shook his hand, seeing that his smile was genuine. Throughout the night, Hinata smiled at the interaction between the two friends. Maybe the night was horrible but at least it'll end in a good note.
It's nice to know that Naruto has at least one good friend who has his back.
