Author's Note:

It's been almost four years since I've updated, and I know that some have questions on what I've been doing. I've been living life! I went to college and met amazing people and made memories that will last a lifetime. I've overcome so many things - depression and anxiety no longer control me. I've learned to accept and love myself. I'm not afraid to take chances anymore. I've been so blessed these past few years, and I want you all to know that although life can be hard, it can also be beautiful. I took the advice I've always given others - I didn't give up, and I'm so proud of myself for it.

I would like to thank you all for the comments and messages that you all have sent me over the years. I really appreciate it. Here's a thank you gift.

Chapter 30: The Beginning of the End - Part Two

"One day Alice came to a fork in the road and saw a Cheshire cat in a tree. 'Which road do I take?' she asked. 'Where do you want to go?' was his response. 'I don't know,' Alice answered. 'Then,' said the cat, 'it doesn't matter."

― Lewis Carroll, Alice in Wonderland

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Sasuke clenched his fist behind the podium. Shikamaru stood by his side, giving him a tentative look.

"...that was the most tragic day of my life, as it was to many families. I could not imagine what my life would be like if I had lost my mother or the people that I love that night. No one should have to wake up in the morning only to be told that their family or loved one is injured or dead." Sasuke looked around at the silent crowd, his body becoming cold. "To all of the families affected by that horrendous night, I want to give my sincerest and deepest apology. I know that this donation can never bring back the ones you love most, but what I hope it can do is help you continue to move towards the future. Although your loved one may not be beside you, they will always be with you in spirit as well as in memory. May they rest in peace."

Sasuke and Shikamaru bowed to the roaring crowd before going over to the tearful crowd of families seated at the event.

"You ready?", Shikamaru asked when he spotted one of the mothers beginning to tear up. He glanced over at Sasuke, who held an emotionless expression. "Well?"

"Let's get this over with.", his words were forced; it was hard for him to say anything. He had no support right now, even with Shikamaru here. Only one person could help him with this.

The Nara sighed. Damn you, Naruto…

Once they made it towards the families, they both bowed. "We're terribly sorry for your loss.", the Nara stated, his gaze going towards the tearing woman. His apology only caused her to sob harder and grip the large gold picture frame she held in her hand. Her daughter. Only thirteen.

Sasuke tensed up at the picture, remembering seeing the girl that night. She was outside the hotel that night, staring up at him with wide eyes, full of admiration, full of unrequited love -

He felt sick.

"I knew I-I should've said no. I should've told her no...", the woman sobbed. "S-She would still be alive if I'd told her no..."

Sasuke didn't know one thing about comforting another human being, but he found himself hugging the broken woman in his arms, which surprised Shikamaru. "If there's anything I can do for you and your family, please don't hesitate to ask." He whispered, letting the woman soak his suit in her tears.

Shikamaru's eyes stayed solemn. This was the life they had chosen for themselves after all.

The Nara looked down at his phone when he felt a vibration, and quirked a brow when he saw that it was from Naruto. With a glance in Sasuke's direction and a nod to the crowd, he excused himself.

"What is it?", he asked once he was out of hearing range from the group.

"She fucking knows, Shikamaru! How the fuck does she know?! Did someone tell her - "

"Slow the hell down, Naruto. What are you talking about?", Shikamaru said, becoming curious as to what had made the blond a frantic mess.

"Hinata, Shikamaru! She knows what happened in Paris - "

"Everyone knows what happened in Paris, Naruto. It hit international news."

"No, Shikamaru, she knows something about us. I'm just not sure how much..."

Shikamaru froze. "Are you sure?"

"Fucking positive."

Shit.

"W-Who are these all from?" Hinata peered at the bouquets of roses scattered about her dressing room. She picked up one of the petals and examined it with squinted eyes, admiring the vibrant colors.

Konan sneezed before looking down at her phone. "Interested investors and fellow colleagues. There were also tokens from the designers. You can keep the diamond bra after all."

"Donate it.", Hinata deadpanned. There was no way in hell she was wearing that again.

Konan sneezed once again. "It's a good thing you're being so generous since I did take it upon myself to take all the shoes and dresses given to you and put them in my car so that I can take them home. No need to thank me,"she said, wiping her nose. "Unfortunately, I won't be able to put those flowers in my car since they are killing me, and I haven't written out my will to have Pein ball-sacked yet."

Hinata pouted as she glanced over at the flowers. "Maybe I can get Sasori to take them home with him."

"Aw, so sweet. I didn't know you two were sharing a place." Konan smirked. " Better tell Deidara before baby number uno pops out."

"S-Sasori and I are not dating...or doing anything similar to that."

Konan looked at her with a dead gaze. "You had a hickey."

"T-That…", Hinata faltered for a moment. "Is hard to explain."

Konan smirked. "My point exactly." She changed the subject. "Anyway, besides the gifts, you appear to be trending on social media."

Hinata froze. "Seriously?"

Konan sighed and began to type on her phone. "I'm losing my edge. I'll have to start with the annual demotion period at Sabaku again," she stated, saving the event on her phone before going to twitter. "

She picked up one of the cards - Haku's name was sprawled across it. No doubt that he had one of his entourage get her flowers. It was still sweet though.

"Your little fiasco with Haruno is old news - everyone's talking about tonight. I'm in love with Hinata Hyuuga - Hinata is so pretty - Who's that girl with the dazzling smile and hot bod, Oh, that's Hinata... Listen to this: I never knew in my eighty years of life that I would find stimulation in my groin once again. Thanks Hinata. ", the woman glanced back down at her phone, ignoring the bluette's horrified glance. "Oh -You're trending by the way. Congratulations."

"I serious, Hinata. You're an 'it' girl now."

The bluette gasped and started to shake in excitement. "I'm trending? A-As in, worldwide trending?!"

"As in trending on four major social media platforms - trending," the woman corrected with a small smirk. She turned on the television on the wall, and immediately Gaara was one the screen with Kankuro and Temari at his side. The header in bold letters read: Sabaku Announces New Spokesmodel Hinata Hyuuga. "It's official. You're in the big leagues now."

Hinata went silent as she threw her agent a wide smile. Konan rolled her eyes and let her smirk widened.

Trending= Publicity= Promotions= Money=More Money=More Money

Hinata screamed as she went forth and latched on a reluctant Konan.

"We did it Konan! We finally did it!", she pulled away from Konan for a moment.

"Not yet. But we're getting there."

"I can't believe it! It all happened so fast!", she squeezed the woman harder.

Konan almost gasped as the breath was knocked out of her.

"Konan, w-we did it - I can't believe this!", the girl cried, squeezing the startled woman.

Konan looked down at the blue head on her chest, her confusion of the girl's actions dissipating once she realized the girl's words.

She watched as the bluette looked up, unshed tears in her lavender orbs. "W-We did it, Konan. I'm so proud..."

These were the moments that Konan lived for.

"Don't have a baby, Hinata. We still have a lot to get done - this is just the beginning." Konan smirked. "But I guess we did do it, huh? I'm the one that should be proud, thought. She patted the girl's head. "You really kilt it out there. You knew it wasn't going to be easy, but you gave it your all. It takes a lot of courage and technique to impress a crowd, especially the first go round. And being associated with Akatsuki, Sabaku, and Sasuke Uchiha doesn't hurt either."

Hinata thought about if for a moment before agreeing. You know who you who.

They were at a completely different point than they were months ago. They could see progress, and a future. A bright one at that.

The door suddenly opened, revealing Sasori as he walked through the door, a smirk on his face.

"My eyes are deceiving me - is that Sabaku's spokesmodel Hinata Hyuuga?"

Hinata grinned as she ran into his arms, hugging his torso tightly with the intent of never letting go.

Konan glanced at the two from the corner of her eye, watching as the bluette smiled up at Sasori, letting him run his fingers through her short mane.

"I guess the rumors are true then - there is something going on between you and Sasori-san."

Lavender eyes clashed with icy blue when Hinata snapped towards the door.

Hitomi gave the group a seemingly pleasant smile, but her eyes told it all. She was up to something once again.

"And what may we owe the pleasure of this visit?", Konan asked before the bluette could speak, folding her arms.

The woman held up her hand. "Wow, such hostility. Calm down tiger, I just came to congratulate Hyuuga -"

"Thank you. Now you may leave. My client and I have a very busy schedule we must attend to," Konan interjected.

Hitomi blinked doelly and tilted her head. "Tch, busy already? How unfortunate." She let out a loud sigh. "You're one of the biggest gatherings of the year and you're going to miss the opportunity to indulge in your one minute of fame? Poor girl. You should really consider getting a new publicist as soon as you get some kind of income, darling."

Konan had the urge to roll her eyes. "Before you start ridiculing how I do my job, you may want to talk to your publicist first. Are you going to Sasuke's shindig to promote - or are you just going there in a failed attempt to get him back?"

Sasuke's party? Hinata didn't want to go now.

The smirking woman let a giggle slip from her lips. "Going so Sasuke can take me back? What a low blow. I didn't know you were so catty. Such a dirty player." Her anger was evident, but she refused to let it show.

"Did I hurt your feelings? I tend to do that sometimes." Konan leaned against the wall and folded her arms, her gaze piercing. "'Playing dirty' is your thing and, unlike you, I don't play."

"So I'm childish?"

"And a skank. Someone I don't want my client to be associated with." Konan folded her arms, her eyes narrowing. "I know all about you, Hitomi. You were apart of Sasuke's team before he dropped -thus what I said, you happen to play and get played a lot. " Konan said. "Like you did tonight. I didn't know you were so immature. It's really sad that you had to succumb to childish ploys in order to try and sabotage my client."

Hitomi crossed her arms. "Me? Sabotage? How so?" Mock was present in her voice, which only confirmed Hinata and Konan's suspicions.

"Are you saying that you didn't have a hand in rearranging and throwing out stylists' measurements?" Konan asked.

The redhaired woman laughed, a twinkle going into her blue eyes as she swept some fiery locks over her shoulder. "You must be mistaken. You don't really think I had something to do with all of the mistakes that occurred tonight, do you?"

"We know you did , and we're flattered. Really. To know that my client's success intimidates you enough to go to such great lengths just proves that my co-workers and I are doing our jobs." Konan smirked slowly. "You should really look into getting a new staff, Hitomi. Maybe one day you can be almost like Hinata - and possibly get a minute or two with Sasuke."

Hitomi smiled, although the trio could tell that she was angry from the way her eye twitched every now and then. "I didn't come here to be patronized. I've said my peace, but I do hope to see you at the party, Hyuuga." She turned towards Hinata, who's head dropped once their gazes met. "Wouldn't want to keep Naruto waiting - he's really looking forward to you attending."

It rolled off her lips with ease, causing eyes to slide to the bluette in the middle of the room. The way she said it sounded wrong - it sounded dirty, taboo even. Had Hitomi seen her and Naruto? There were so many people around them thought, so many crowds - how could she have?

Hinata felt the gaze automatically, but didn't have the heart to meet it. She feared she'd see disappointment. So instead, she watched Hitomi leave, glorious red hair swinging with shine, long pale legs moving in motion with her mane. Yes, she watched diligently.

And when the door closed, she meet Sasori's honey gaze.

"He's looking forward to you attending?", Sasori mocked as he neared her, closing in on her personal space.

Hinata blushed. "S-She's just talking. I'm not going to whatever she's talking about...and neither is Naruto..."

Both Konan and Sasori shared a look.

The bluette sighed. "He approached me and...it's a long story…"

Konan interjected. "If it's about Kushina, then there's no need to explain. But if not - "

"Let's not talk about h-him right now...please…" Hinata said before letting in a breath. "Tonight has just been...so unrealistic."

"That's one way to describe it." Sasori agreed before smirking. "But Hitomi is right somewhat. You should go out and celebrate."

Konan scoffed. "She doesn't need to be anywhere that Ibisu slug may be."

"Uchiha's party may not be the best place to be, but people will be expecting you to be there," Sasori said, putting a hand on the bluette's arm. "You should go, if just for a few minutes."

Hinata thought for a moment before putting a hand over his. "Will you come with me?"

Sasori smiled. "Unfortunately, my love, I can't. I got some things to work on with Gaara tonight, but I will see you tomorrow."

Hinata pouted a bit, her happiness dimming a little, but enough to where Konan noticed.

Sasori sighed as he pulled her into another hug. "I'll make it up to you. I promise." He ruffled her short locks before pulling away and looking into her eyes. "I'm proud of you, kid."

Hinata gaggled. "Kid? Don't be gross."

Sasori chuckled as he nodded towards Konan before walking out of the dressing room. Hinata stared at the door he'd left through and simply sighed. And she looked over a Konan and jumped.

The purple-haired woman stared at her.

"W-What?," Hinata asked, startled by her sudden change of mood.

The woman stared back, her eyes back to having their emotionless void. It frightened and amused Hinata how her friend was able to switch personas. If only she could do the same.

"With this lifestyle, men come and go. Sasori's a nice guy, but this is the only side you've seen of him." The woman watched as the bluette looked back down at her shoes. "It's okay if you and Sasori are friends, but I suggest that you try not to make it anything more than that right now, especially as it concerns your career."

Konan placed her hand on the bluette's shoulder. "This is your night. You should be celebrating."

Hinata nodded. "R-Right," she answered.

Konan turned and went about taking care of matters on her phone. Hinata sat down on the couch in the room and looked back on the television. It showed pictures of herself on the runway before it transitioned over to pictures of her and Sasuke. She looked away.

Konan was right. Things were her and Sasori were developing into something, but that something was undefined. It wasn't something that was forced between the two - it was one of the most natural relationships that she'd developed by far. She didn't expect her and Sasori to be like this. She'd be lying if she said she didn't feel something for Sasori…

And that was the scary part. Despite everything that she'd been through with Sasuke, she'd managed to become attached to someone else. Someone else who could potentially break her heart. A shiver went up her spine. She couldn't put herself through that pain again. She had to protect her heart and mind and focus on herself right now. No matter how much she told herself this thought, her mind drifted to Sasori -

A ding on her phone distracted her momentarily, and she looked down to see a text.

Want to be my date to the party tonight?

Hinata raised a brow. Haku-san?

"Are you sure you're good with hosting a party tonight, sir? You should rest," Suigetsu said as he followed after Sasuke.

The Uchiha ignored his assistant, pushing past some of the workers back stage with his security before exiting out the backdoor. He was relieved at the sight of no one around. No crazy fans. No nagging Yamato. No fucking Naruto.

His thoughts came to a staggering halt when he came to face his brother.

Itachi stood beside the door, face clear of anything but raised eyebrows. Sasuke truly despised that. He spoke too soon.

The younger Uchiha passed his brother. "It's you. Always you," he muttered under his breath as Itachi walked in step with him. "You just couldn't let me have the night could you? You've always hated it when I got most of the attention."

"It was never about you, little brother. It is a charity event."

"A charity event that I thought of and created while you sat in your little seat on the Sabaku council and plotted against it," Sasuke spat. They started down the steps, their entourages merging together and backing away from the two to let them talk in private. "I will never get how father can tolerate you being around any of us. You're a traitor against your own kind."

Itachi sighed in frustration. "I haven't seen you in weeks, and now you insult me? I thought you loved me more than that - "

"I do," Sasuke cut him off, causing the older of the two to look at him in slight surprise at the admittance. "That doesn't help me in my cause, but what the hell," Sasuke shot back, stopping and turning to face his brother.

Itachi stopped on the steps and stared down. "I didn't know that Sabaku would announce it tonight."

"But you knew that she would be the spokesmodel. Do you know how that makes me look? My soon to be ex-wife is working with the enemy, no less my own brother. Just imagine what father will say about - " Sasuke stopped, not wanting to think about what his father would say exactly. "I told you that you couldn't be in the middle - "

"And that I would have to chose. I thought I'd made my choice clear when I resigned from Uchiha, Sasuke."

Sasuke clenched his teeth. "Why are you here?"

Itachi became silent for a moment before continuing. "Someone tried to kill you Sasuke. And the first thing you do when you come home is work. How many times have I tried to reach you? I know you're not happy with the decisions that I've made, but that doesn't mean you shut me out. I care about you. I just want to make sure - "

"If what? If I'm okay?" Sasuke snorted as he glanced over his brother. "Rest assured that if I ever needed anything that you'd be the last person I'd call. I don't need you, brother."

The older Uchiha looked away, towards the city lights. "You just don't understand…"

Sasuke shrugged. "And I never will. Because I'm not you, big brother. You're the golden child of the family who can do no wrong."

"You're not okay Sasuke, and you need help," Itachi said.

"I have many problems, Itachi. But you won't find me telling them to you." He glared at the male with red eyes. "Give Hinata my regards." He turned and continued down the alleyway towards the secluded SUV.

Itachi shook his head as he let the younger Uchiha's entourage pass.

Suigetsu suddenly appeared by his side. "I'll continue to update you on his well being."

"Take him home. He needs to rest," Itachi stated before turning and walking back towards the building, his entourage falling in place behind him.

"But who will take over the after-party, sir?," Suigetsu sputtered nervously.

Itachi sent him a glance over his shoulder as he continued to walk. "Call uncle." He soon disappeared inside the building, leaving Suigetsu to look after him.

"M-Madara-san?," Suigetsu questioned.

The backseat window slid down, showing Sasuke and his flawless face in annoyance.

Suigetsu sighed. Oh boy.

Tenten stared idly at the teacup on the table, its intricate design shining due to the wavering flame of the candles throughout the room. She found herself gazing over things in admiration and disbelief. She could hardly believe that this was the home that she'd left behind. The home she'd always said she'd have - a home that would be hers and only hers with the people she loved.

She wasn't sure that she wanted that home anymore.

Shi, the Hyuuga maid, gently sat the tea set atop the small table before bowing. "Is there anything else I may do to serve you, sir?"

"That is all, Shi. You may leave."

Tenten's hands found the pockets of her jeans. Slowly, she moved her gaze beyond the steaming cup to the person seated in front of her. Their gaze met, and instantly she could feel the fury in her chest. She was in the presence of her enemy.

Her husband.

Neji displayed no emotion, yet she could tell what he was feeling by how his long fingers tapped atop the settee. He was tense, which was a good sign that what she had come here for would be fulfilled without question. Still, his countenance made her unsure.

She became even more wary when he started the conversation.

"I was not expecting to see you back so soon. Is there something causing you trouble?", he asked as he brought his teacup to his lips, his white opaque eyes staring right at her, almost through her it seemed.

That's the first thing you ask me? There wasn't really much she was expecting from him, but that? Of course he knew what was troubling her. It was so obvious that it was laughable.

Tenten smiled before pushing back the cup. Some dark liquid spilled out on the short table. "I'll just lay it out there - I hate you. You're an asshole and I find you to be the most disgusting human being on the planet, right up there with your pal Sasuke fucking Uchiha. I could care less how you feel and I'm sure you don't give two fucks about me.

"However, I feel that it's my responsibility to make sure that Tenji has the support of not only his mother, but his father too unfortunately, which is why I'm here. With that said... " She paused, anger rolling off of her body in waves.

It was killing her to just sit there on the couch and not do anything. She wanted to jump at him and pull his girly hair, choke him with her bare hands, and drag him under the couch; whenever she thought of that though, she wondered if he thought the same. Did he feel as much anger as she was feeling? Did he not care how much he'd hurt and betrayed her?

Tenten continued when silence ensued.

"I have decided that I'm going to move back in - tonight. I'll be staying in one of the guest rooms near the maid's' chamber, so we shouldn't even have to run into each other. I won't bother you as long as you don't bother me."

Neji started to reach for his cup. "Understandable." His hand suddenly froze. He caught sight of the picture on the table, the one he'd been meditating on the day before. He lifted the picture gently in his arms.

Tenten continued. "I also won't say anything you wouldn't want me to, and I expect the same respect in return. Equal respect." She found herself wringing her hands together as she stared at her untouched tea. "I'll even respect Kin - hell, I'll even help the girl if she needs it. I understand that she is going to be the mother of your...children, but you shouldn't forget about Tenji. Never forget about him..."

"I would never forget my son. That should be the least of your worries," he stated, the softness in his tone stirring something in her. Neji placed the frame down on the table before standing, his long hair falling gently down his back. "I'll have Shi get your room ready. If there's anything else - "

"You can start by getting me off house arrest." Tenten muttered, brown eyes lidded by the brightness of the fire.

Neji nodded before setting down his cup. "I'll make the call tonight. You'll be off by tomorrow morning."

His connections. His power. "Nice." She pursued her lips.

He began to stare at her then. His eyes roamed over her body passingly before lingering on her face. Tenten turned towards the fireplace. The flames flickered and popped. Those hard white eyes wouldn't leave her. The same eyes that watched her get taken away. The same eyes that watched her in her dreams. The same eyes that her son looked upon her with in sadness and betrayal.

So many things had happened between them. They'd changed with the seasons, changed for the worse. Their entire life, their years together, a waste. They were no longer in this together. And, scaringly, Tenten was fine with that.

And when Neji saw that resilience in her presence, he stopped searching for those brown eyes.

"Goodnight," he said before departing through the double doors of the den.

Tenten let her eyes gaze upon the picture left upright. Her brown eyes mapped out the reflection of her own smiling ones.

A wedding picture of all things. It was the type of dark, twisted humor that made her stomach turn, yet set a smile upon her lips.

It hurt like hell. But she wouldn't let it show in the house of a Hyuuga.

The first thing she came in contact with was feathers, white vibrant feathers that gently floated down upon her, landing gently in her indigo hair and on her coat. She gingerly wiped it away, feeling the ticklish sensation against her skin vaguely as she looked up towards the balcony, spotting white doves perched upon the railings, being watched solemnly by what she assumed to be their keepers. The loud music caught her ears, causing her to peer through the sheet of feathers and spot that band seated upon a small stage, their bright blue tuxedos and gold instruments contrasting beautifully together and making the melody sound all the more sweeter. Hinata watched as women kindly and politely wisped by holding trays eager to show off their diamond leotards and the blue feathers of their skirt. A fountain stood in the middle of the room, spouting vivid neon colors and drifting off into thick waves onto the women seated in the pretty water, sporting artsy bathing suits and bright eyes. She even spotted a white tiger that laid leisurely upon a spot on the second floor in a glass cage, gazing down at the people with its azure orbs. Then she caught the scent of something extraordinary that made her nose flare and chills break out on her skin. Her lavender orbs quickly snapped to the object of observation lying innocently on a silver platter on an elaborately dressed table.

Cinnamon buns...

She was in heaven. It was already the best party she'd ever been to, and she didn't even have to have been to any party in her life to know this.

Hinata found herself inching towards the dessert table, but felt a hand softly grab her shoulder, bringing her from her cloud nine.

"May I?" A man dressed in a blue tuxedo bowed before gesturing towards her coat, to which Hinata nodded. Of course she couldn't stay snugged in the coat all night, especially with how everyone else was dressed. With a small smile, Hinata let the male help her with her jacket, revealing her crop top and tight skirt; she bashfully pulled at her top as she looked around, already feeling the eyes of some of the guests.

Haku winked down at her. "You look beautiful." He lifted up his arm. " Shall we?"

His words and his stance sent her into a sense of deja vu. Suddenly his long brown hair seemed red under the blue lights of the fountain, and he seemed shorter than before. Instead of dark brown eyes, she was reminded of hazel ones, big childlike hazel ones that bore down at her with a perfect blend of mirth and mischief.

Her hand twitches by her side. If only Sasori was here. If only he'd been by her side tonight.

"Hinata?", Haku asked, watching as the bluette's pleasant features dropped into that of an emotionless facade.

She smiled and grabbed his arm gently. "T-Thank you, Haku-san." She was ready for this. It was no big deal. They weren't dating or anything.

Still, she couldn't shake the ominous thoughts clouding her head as she looked around at all of the beautiful people around. She shouldn't even be here. And yes, she would admit, she was stubborn and selfish.. But so was everyone else, no matter how hard they'd deny it.

"There's our lady of the hour!".

Hinata along with Haku looked in the direction of the boisterous voice and spotted a small group of women, some of whom were models from the show and others unknown. One of the women, a short-haired blue-eyed beauty, waving them over with a large grin, reminding the bluette solemnly of a certain blond Uzumaki.

"Hinata-chan! Haku-kun! Get your asses over here - we're saving your seats!", she shouted, waving her arms quite frantically.

Hinata tilted her head in confusion as Haku sighed in embarrassment before leading Hinata to the table of giggling girls.

"Couldn't wait just a little longer before taking another swing of the bottle, eh Jane?", Haku laughed, gesturing for Hinata to get in the booth first. As soon as they were both in the booth, Haku grabbed a small glass from a passing tray before giving it to Hinata. "Here - take a shot."

Hinata grabbed the small shot glass. It shouldn't be alot. She quickly took it before coughing a bit and looking bewildered back at glass. That was really strong.

Jane waved Haku off with a big, drunken smile, her blue eyes shifted on Hinata. " Oi, Hinata-chan, you look so freaking sexy in that! How did you get your midriff like that?! We have to get a picture together later- but first, I just have to get it off my chest - you were AMAzing! You freaking kilt it, the whole show - Literally! Ugh, why are you so cute, Hinata-chan!?"

Hinata blinked doelly. What did she just say?

She heard Haku laugh a bit as he patted her shoulder. "Ah, Jane, such the character."

This started an influx of conversation.

"Your whole ensemble and concept was just to die for," one girl chimed with a rather squeaky voice.. "Short hair looks so good on you!"

"Ugh, I wish I would have been chosen by Kurenai-san! She's so knows what she's doing - You're so lucky!"

"You either have it or you don't. Hinata-chan has it."

Hinata shook her head, a slight blush on her cheeks. "I-If you don't count that i-incident from before. Sorry about that, by the way. It was really embarrassing -

" It was your first time. No biggie," said a blonde beauty curtly as she looked into her compact mirror, wiping at the lipstick at the corner of her mouth. ."You're really lucky, Hyuuga. I heard that Kurenai's a bitch when it comes to who models her designs." She closed down her compact before peering at Hinata from across the booth. "It would be interesting to know just how you managed to get booked considering your history and your...image in the media."

Hinata raised a brow.

"Hinata has a shining personality, and she's memorable. She has a lot of potential. I'd choose her too," Haku commented offhandedly as he stretched his arm out beyond the rim of the both, consequently landing behind Hinata's head.

The blonde lifted her hands in defense. "Excuse me, then. Just saying."

Haku smiled as he picked up another shot glass and handed it to Hinata."And we heard you, Asa," he responded.

The tension rose between the two; some started to shift uncomfortably. Hinata took the shot and winced at the strong taste.

"Come on guys, chill out! We're supposed to be having fun!" Jane leaned over towards Asa, cupping her hand over her mouth. " You know how Haku is! Now's not the time," she slurred as she tried to whisper.

Asa rolled her eyes as she took a sip of her drink. "I was just stating what everyone was thinking. It's not a secret that the only reason Miss Hyuuga got booked was because of her association with Akatsuki, and let's not forget her hubby Sasuke. I'm a bit jealous, to be honest. Oh, and Sakura, but that whore's old news." She smirked. "Speaking of old whores though…"

Hinata looked to the side as well as the other, spotting familiar pink hair in the distance.

Sakura... The pinkette came through the entrance with what looked to be an entourage. Her long, bare legs took the attention of most of the men on the dance floor and her bright pink hair made her the center of attention. Her bright green eyes looked over in the bluette's direction, which only caused Hinata to feel uncomfortable. I forgot she would be here... Hinata averted her eyes to the bright drink on the table.

A random girl sighed. "Oh yeah, I forgot about her. Where the heck was she anyway..."

Jane looked down. "She's taking the breakup pretty hard. She cried the whole night. There was no consoling her after Sasuke-kun dumped her. I heard she showed up the next day outside his condo begging for him to take her back. Security had to get involved."

Hinata stiffened.

"She told me that she was positive he was the one. It's so sad that they're breaking up.." Jane muttered, a sad looking coming to her face. "Of course it's no offense to you, Hinata…It's just so complicated you know. I can't imagine what you or anyone has to go through with this situation."

Asa snorted. "So pathetic. She's cancelled. You would think that she'd have some rebound in the waiting. How can she be considered the most beautiful woman in Japan, but has zero luck in getting a guy and moving on? Honestly, she's so overrated.." The blonde looked towards Hinata, a smirk on her face. "Hinata-chan, we may just have to hire you so that you can beat her ass again. Maybe then she'll get some kind of sense."

"Asa," Haku stated as he grabbed a drink off the table. Hinata felt her eye twitch. What the hell was this girl's problem?

Asa, the blonde, hit him on his shoulder playfully. "It was a joke, Haku-kun! Gosh, lighten up!" She giggled. Her laugh was like that of a seal.

Hinata shifted uncomfortably.

"Anyway, I don't get why he got with her in the first place. I mean I know that she's popular and all, but that forehead is freaking huge," Asa commented. "It's like looking at a freaking boulder or something."

"She kinda looks like my granny's pink chihuahua when it's wet. Kinda smells like him too." Some girl joined in.

Asa laughed, her long hair swaying. "I heard that her mom has, like, four dogs. It's kinda gross. She posts pictures of them all the time on instagram. It gets really annoying."

"So does that mean that she lives with her mom?..."

"Gross!," the girls cooed before laughing, their loud voices receiving attention from people near.

Particularly Sakura. Hinata looked over at Jane, who stayed silent, looking down at the glass on the table despite the large group around her trying to get her attention.

Asa snorted and sipped her drink. "I cannot believe we used to hang out with her. She was so annoying, always talking about work and how great Sasuke-kun is to her and her mom and her stupid dogs. You know, I'm so glad Sasuke-kun opened his eyes and saw how much of a nuisance she was. The only reason anyone ever talked to her was because she was close with the Uchihas. Other than that, everyone thinks she's irritating."

When their laughs lifted in the air once again, Hinata could help the sinking feeling she felt in her chest when she looked over at Sakura, who appeared to be wiping her face. She didn't like Sakura, she would admit that, but to hear someone disrespect another human being didn't sit well with her. Hinata took another shot, causing Haku to smirk unbeknownst to her.

"Ugh, she's so 2016 Sharingan Spring Magazine," Asa chimed once again, looking towards the pinkette's table. "Hinata-chan, how did you deal with Sasuke and her being together? I would be so offended. She's not pretty at all. In fact, I wonder how much dick she had to swallow in order to become the face of Uchiha."

"Not as much as you probably would've," Hinata muttered, completely forgetting she was in public. The table went silent, and Hinata snapped back to reality as she came face to face with the shocked looks around her.

Asa scoffed, coming off her shock. "What?," she seethed.

She had to say something, and she'd had enough of this girl.

"Sakura-san has always been an amazing model, way before she became the face of Uchiha. The position was offered to her," Hinata said, trying to contain the rage in her chest as she clasped her legs across her laps and folded her legs.

Asa looked taken aback for a moment. "Wait, I'm confused - you're defending her? This has got to be some joke, right?"

All eyes at the table turned her way, and she couldn't help but feel the sudden tension in her air, as if she had to choose her words. She decided that tonight she wouldn't.

Hinata smiled. "Sakura-san doesn't have to give out sexual favors in order to get a job that comes so naturally to her. And she definitely doesn't have to berate anyone else to get it either."

The blonde scoffed as leaned against the table, territorial like. "And your point is, Mrs. Uchiha?"

Hinata leaned in closer, her smile still in place. "Maybe if you focused on your walk as much as you focus on others, people would know who you are."

Haku also came to her defense, leisurely replying, "Not every model in the business has to succumb to your method of applying for a job."

She didn't look happy. "Really, Haku?" She seemed heartbroken, but Hinata could see that it was mere embarrassment.

Haku smiled. "Really, Asa."

This conversation was emotionally draining for the bluette. This wasn't her group. She would have rather stayed with Ino and Konan than listen to the drama of the over privileged women whose only entertainment seemed to consist of bashing. And she was freaking 19 for goodness sake!

Hinata stood and pulled down her dress before looking over at Haku. "You w-want to dance?", she didn't know just what she was saying, but she needed to get away from these women.

Haku quickly sat down his glass. "Thought you'd never ask." He excused himself from the suddenly silent women before grabbing the bluette and leading her to the dance floor.

"They're your friends?", Hinata blurted, not being able to hold it in.

Haku suddenly stopped and looked down at her. "My friends?"he asked, obliviousness in his eyes.

Hinata gently pulled her arm away from his. "Are you friends with those women?"

She watched as he sighed and stuffed his hands in his pockets, the twirling lights dancing between them. "They're my associates."

"Associates?", the bluette asked. "T-They seem really...mean. Especially to Sakura."

Haku looked down at her with void eyes. "They hate her. Don't you too?"

Hinata had to bite down on her lip at his comment. "I don't like Sakura, but I don't hate her either." Even though I have every right too...

Haku sighed. "Neither do I, Hinata." He grabbed her hand. "Look, I thought you said you wanted to dance."

Before he could drag her along, she pulled her hand from his and stepped back, startling the tall male a bit.

"They're your associates, so you should go and associate with them. I...I didn't think you were that type of guy, Haku-san." You were so nice…

Would he mind if his associates talked about her in such a way? Would he even care? Sure, she didn't like Sakura, but she didn't hate her either.

Haku sighed and rubbed the back of his neck. "Asa can get...out of hand at times," he admitted. "I'm sorry that she made you feel uncomfortable. We can ignore them the whole night if you want," he said, grabbing her shoulders gently.

Hinata rubbed the back of her bare neck and looked away from his gaze. She didn't know...she couldn't shake the feeling that maybe Haku -

"I won't talk to them tonight. It'll just be you and me - how does that sound?", Haku slipped an arm around her waist. "I'm supposed to be showing you a good time, right? Let's do that."

"D-Do you...do you like me, Haku-san?", Hinata blurted, the words coming off the top of her head before she could stop them.

He suddenly stopped and looked down at her, his brown eyes wide.

Hinata wanted to die. She probably sounded egotistical - what guy, especially someone like Haku - ever -

"Well...yeah I guess?", he laughed sheepishly. "Is it that obvious?"

She could only blink as her mouth went dry. She expected an awkward denial before they would go into silence. But this...this made things even more awkward and complicated.

The short-haired bluette jarred out of her mind when Haku grabbed her hand, his long finger brushing over her knuckles. What the hell was going on? She gulped when he lifted her chin, forcing her to meet his brown eyes.

"I don't want to pressure you or anything, but I'd be lying to myself if I said that I wasn't attracted to you," Haku admitted. The passion in his eyes took her breath away. "Emotionally...and physically…"

Under the flashing lights and smoke, Hinata questioned why she ever assumed Haku to be a woman. That smoldering gaze, that look he was giving her...She felt her stomach tingling, and her heart sped up a bit.

What do I do? What do I do? What do I DO?

Hinata didn't know how or when, but she was poking her fingers again. Great. Just great. "I-I really don't know what to say. Like I really don't."

His chuckling didn't help her case at all. "You could tell me if you're interested."

She wanted to groan aloud, even scream. Not that anyone would notice because the freaking music was so loud and she was so conflicted. How the hell would she know? Yeah, he was beautiful and handsome or whatever, but did that mean she was interested? What did he even mean by that? Why the hell were men so confusing? She helplessly looked over him, at his grinning face, his tall build, his broad shoulders...his big hands…She wondered what would happen if she said -

"Yes…" Dreamily, she nodded slowly. "I a-am…I mean that I - "

He pushed some hair behind her ear. "Heard you the first time, doll." He bent down and met her lips perfectly; his hand on the back of her neck gently brushed at her hair. His lips coaxed hers to open as she felt his tongue go over her top lip. Her stomach contracted, and she felt a wave of heat hit her body that she wasn't sure she should feel about. All thoughts seemed to vanish when his tongue found a way into her mouth and seemed to run over her own. She must've been slipping because she felt his hand snake around her waist to pull her closer to him.

The music seemed to get louder in her ears. She found his shoulders and gripped them. His hands moved up and down her sides before pulling her even closer. The pressure on her chest made her ache. What the hell was going on?

She couldn't continue on; she had to come back before all thoughts and considerations went out the window. She hurriedly patted his shoulders, and he immediately stopped.

"H-Haku-san...we can't - "

"I know you're going through a divorce, and that it can be hard to get over something like that. Let me help you…" She felt his breath against her neck. Her knees felt weak at his next words. "Let me be that guy for you..." His lips ran over her neck, and she absolutely knew that she would have a problem later on. "Let's go somewhere private…"

He started leading her somewhere. She wondered where, but she really wondered what he meant. In the back of her head, her voice of reason was screaming out to her, telling her to ignore her body's sensations. Her curiosity was getting the best of her thought.. What would he do to her once they got alone? Would what he suggested feel as sensational as before? Would she like it?

She was taught that you only had sex when you were married. Could that unspoken rule be broken tonight at Sasuke's party? She only got nervous when the people dwindled and they were met with a dark hall.

He started on her neck again, licking and biting as his hands went around her hips.

Her breathing escalated as the nerves and the sensation collided. She didn't want to go all the way,but she felt her body liking this. "H-Haku-San...oh…" That moan scared her more than it should have. His kisses were getting lower, towards her cleavage. She felt it hard to breath.

They needed to stop before she passed out. But how could she tell him that when she felt her body reacting so violently to his touches? He found her mouth again, and slowly she kissed him back. Her hands found his hair, and soon she felt him pushing himself against her, trying to get as much of her as he possibly could.

He started nibbling at her bottom lip. "I have a place nearby. We can leave this place if you want." His hand slid around her waist to her stomach before it started to inch lower. "Do you?"

"I-I don't think...I don't know…"

"We could find out," he whispered, blowing on her ear, making the hairs stand up on the back of her neck.

Her mind was gone. It was intense.

"Your table is looking for you, Haku." A light voice called sternly.

The kissing and rubbing stopped as her blood ran cold. She snapped her head to the interrupter, and found her head begin to spin.

Sakura's green eyes were even more stunning under the dim lights.

"Sakura?" Hinata was uncertain and confused. Haku backed up as he too stared at the pinkette. "What's going on?...Haku?"

He wasn't looking at her. Hinata tried to find his gaze, but couldn't.

Sakura came forward. "You'll have her within a month you said? At least that is what you told your publicist, right?"

Hinata's fingers became numb.

Haku glanced at her before looking down. "That was before."

"You want publicity."

"That was before...before I met her," Haku gritted out.

Sakura tilted her head as she crossed her arms, her face void of anything. "You want publicity and attention? Post an ad on your Instagram. Pose nude. Make a sex tape. But don't insert yourself in something that doesn't concern you. Know that I will not be your meal ticket. We won't be. Do yourself a favor and leave," Sakura spat.

Haku looked back with something akin to guilt. "I'm sorry, Hinata. I really am." He pushed past the two and into the crowd without looking back.

Hinata felt a wave of embarrassment and shame come over her as she hugged herself and fell back against the wall. He hadn't denied it. Haku...he wasn't the guy she thought he was. And she'd let him touch her. Kiss her. And he was trying to use her. That hit her chest, so much that she felt tears come to her eyes, but she pushed those back as she looked upon the pink-haired woman before her.

Sakura continued to stare at her, her eyes unreadable. Hinata had no words. So much had occurred between them that the only thing that felt suitable was the silence. But she'd saved her, as odd as it may be.

What do you say to the woman who helped create the pain you experienced?

"You should be careful who you call friends," Sakura commented, looking her over.

Hinata shook her head, looking away from her. "He...he wasn't my friend…"

Sakura nodded. "Yeah...now you know," she said, and turned to walk away.

Hinata watched after her, watching as her long pink locks flowed down her back as she walked away. Beautifully.

The only question that remained in Hinata's head was why.

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Questions? I'll answer them if I can!