CHAPTER TEN

Present Day —

It did feel like a migraine was beginning to settle back into his head. Sasuke made sure that his hangover wouldn't be reminded after he downed Naruto's horrible black coffee. But the sight of his father and Hyūga Hiashi giving each other a handshake over the settled deal they had made for "the sake of their companies" brought the nerves in his head to a traumatizing halt.

What the fuck just happened?

He looked over to Hinata; her gentle lavender eyes portrayed confusion. He saw how she didn't know what she was supposed to feel or think. She was tense, confused, shocked, bewildered, into one.

An arranged marriage? Just what shit have they gotten themselves into that the union between their children depended on it? Sasuke knew something was off. He knew that whatever they had faced was something so messed up, they ran out of ideas on how to survive through it. Their life-long rivalry couldn't possibly be mended overnight. Besides, Hinata left Sasuke years ago because—

The Uchiha suddenly felt his heart drop at the thought, almost as if his brain warned him against falling down that same dark rabbit hole. He fucked up. That was why he was so miserable. And the worst part of it was, after four whole years, she still managed to make his being leap with desire. He still wanted her and he still loved her.

"Now that it's settled, we shall have an engagement dinner in two days. We need to inform the officials about this, too." Fugaku had said. Hiashi nodded in approval, and as they continued talking among themselves, Sasuke's thoughts deafened his ears. He knew he needed time to understand and process what had happened. Without looking at the Hyūga female, Sasuke stood, barely touched his food, and excused himself to grab "fresh air."

As he walked towards the Hyūga compound's garden, he took out a pack of cigarettes. A zippo soon followed and he lit up his toxic plaything for him to inhale. The nicotine began to settle within his head after a few seconds and he could feel his mind recollecting all the events. Just like years ago, he was one to process alone outside, precisely under the moonlight. It was a comforting sight when he decided to fix his gaze on it. Something about it reminded him of Hinata a lot.

"Sasuke,"

That still soft voice was enough for the Uchiha to turn his whole body around as if that voice was in control of his whole being. She saw her standing by the sliding doors, her hand resting on the doorknob. She looked like she too needed to process things. It all happened too fast in a weighty mass, no human being could recover from it in seconds.

"Hi," he responded.

"M-May I join you?"

Sasuke raised a brow. "You smoke?"

She shook her head. "No, but, I've had a few," she would say as she walked towards him. "If that's fine with you."

The Uchiha nodded, handing the pack to the heiress. Once she lit her cigarette, the Hyūga sighed in bittersweet relief. They both were looking out for something, anything that could grab their attention. Another fact that needed to settle within Sasuke was that she was right next to him, after four years. Especially knowing their last meeting was not at all pleasant.

"I had a boyfriend, you know." Hinata began, exhaling a puff of smoke smoothly out into the air. For a non-smoker, she looked like she had done it regularly. Sasuke didn't react to that statement, assuming she would continue. But did she want a reaction? He didn't really know what to do.

"He was a good guy—" She paused, almost as if it was hard for her to say. "He loved me and I was happy."

That someone made her happy was a sign of Sasuke's defeat. What an epic fail. However, Sasuke realized that Hinata seemed to have gotten better at conveying her emotions. She was firm in her way of expression and Sasuke began to wonder if the whole four years taught her that. Still, in a state where both looked in different directions, Hinata continued speaking.

"My father told me to marry someone for the sake of the Hyūga empire. I didn't have a choice, as always. But I was adamant in rejecting the proposal. I even planned a strategic dramatic rejection and then leave right after."

Sasuke remained silent, eager to listen for more, willing to give her more space to implore their situation.

"You taught me to stand up for what I believed in; that I didn't have to cater to my family's expectations. So, I was seriously going to go against my father."

She was right. All those years they were around each other, Sasuke did tell her that. He probably repeated the same statement way too many times. But tears began to form in her eyes. This time, Sasuke shifted his gaze to study her facial expression.

"But then, you walked into the dining room—"

They began to stream down her cheeks. Anger was evident, but her eyes were yearning for Sasuke.

"The only one who would never leave my mind, no matter how many times I tried… Suddenly everything you taught me abandoned me."

She inhaled more toxins into her lungs, trying her best to keep her tears composed. Sasuke's cigarette had burnt its last length and he didn't have another medium to distract himself. He had to confront the moment.

Hinata kept her eyes focused on the grass beneath them, not complaining or wondering why Sasuke chose to remain quiet. The heiress was probably still familiar with the Uchiha's silence, especially when things get emotional and/or complicated. Sasuke wondered if she'd ever listened to his side of the story.

Would he ever agree with an arranged marriage?

Knowing it was Hinata he had to marry, he was okay with the idea.

"Hinata,"

The girl glanced at the man. They were both adults now, facing life's complexities head first, with faith that they'd turn out alright. How could we all possibly know ways to survive if we don't walk small steps each day? They were both adults with feet that have no privileges to rest, to stay in comfort. They had to make decisions every day. And maybe, there's something beautiful in that concept of life.

"After four long years, I'm ashamed to say I have been sleeping around, mostly with the same girl from years back. And I am distraught with the fact that I, as a man, have weaknesses."

The heiress seemed shocked by the Uchiha's sudden vulnerability. But, oh fuck it. Sasuke was tired of trying so hard to place his face where weaknesses are concealed. If his being is right where it should be, then why hide?

"I am terribly sorry for the pain I've caused you. I don't know what I can do to atone for my sins," he had said. Sasuke moved to take a step closer to the girl, his fingers slipping through a strand of her dark silky hair.

"And I don't know if you can ever forgive me," he continued, his gaze focused intently on the Hyūga's moons.

"I'm willing—God help me—just to have you with me, I'm willing to change—" Sasuke slid his hand down her arm very gently to grab her hand. Once he got a grip, he continued, "—and I will work my hardest for my atonement."

Seeing how the heiress did not pull away, Sasuke made an effort to plant a soft kiss on her forehead. She still smelled the same; of lavenders and mint.

"Will you marry me?"

The Uchiha never felt so much in need of the dobe's advice before. The next morning after the surprise and forced proposal, Sasuke called Naruto to come to meet him at a bar near his office after work and the blonde agreed to the invitation. If there was one thing Sasuke could be grateful for was the availability of Naruto whenever Sasuke needed counsel. Despite being loud and expressive, the Uzumaki was one to mature fast. After their graduation, he married Sakura and they've been married ever since. Surely, he was the right one for Sasuke to go to regarding his love life.

When time stood evening, the Uchiha had reserved a seating area for both him and Naruto. Sasuke had too many questions. How everything played out hours before his dinner with the Hyūgas happened in a weird, constructive way… Sasuke knew the dobe worked in the Ministry of International Relations, which made him have an odd feeling that the Uzumaki might have been a part of the arranged marriage all along.

"What's up?" The blonde said as he took a seat across from the Uchiha.

Sasuke had ordered chicken wings to go with their beers. With how extreme the two could approach drinking, they might end up eating at the nearest ramen stand to handle drunkenness. With a toast and a gulp, Sasuke started the conversation.

"I think it's about time you explain to me why my marriage with Hinata is important," said Sasuke. Naruto looked like he was about to choke on his chicken wing.

"You knew all along, didn't you?"

After he swallowed his food, Naruto grinned. "Yes."

"Was that the reason why you came to my office in the morning?"

"You're supposed to be happy," Naruto said, taking a few gulps of his beer. "You finally get to be with Hinata without your families hating on each other."

"Idiot, I hurt her right before she left. How do you think our marriage is gonna work? It's been four years. Four years. She had a boyfriend, had a life, and gave it all up just to obey her father. Wouldn't it be better if she marries my brother instead?"

Naruto raised a brow, "You'd be okay if Itachi married Hinata?"

Sasuke was quiet.

"Tch. No."

Naruto had to laugh. "But daaaamn, you know good chicken wings! This is hella delicious!"

Sasuke rolled his eyes at Naruto's sudden childishness. He wondered if the dobe ever had a barometer to really balance his ever-changing personality. Maybe not.

"Sasuke,"

The Uchiha refocused his attention on what Naruto was about to say.

"I'm not one to be informed of many things since I strictly work with international relations. But I found out recently—sorry—we, the Ministry of International Relations found out through some key people in our government that members of the World Bank are working together with the International Association of Oil & Gas Producers to overthrow these two international organizations so that they can create a new world order."

This made Sasuke still. Because he knew that the founder of the World Bank (WB) are the Hyūgas and the founders of the International Association of Oil & Gas Producers (IOGP) are the Uchihas. Sasuke couldn't even begin to wrap his head around how this could have happened in the first place.

"Through oil and gas by one of the biggest financial banks," Sasuke continued, "Destroy the oil, destroy the people. Rip them apart to reconstruct the perfect society. Sounds cheesy, but am I getting this right?"

Naruto nodded, his eyes lingering around the two for a moment as if he was convinced someone could be stalking them. "Precisely."

"I don't understand how my marriage with Hinata will prevent all this?"

"It will indeed buy us some time. Not every member country is plotting against you and the Hyūgas. These good people look up to you guys. The rest of the world isn't even aware of the tension but if we can grab their hearts with your union, the alliances between Konoha and the rest of the world would be strong enough to confront the evil schemes, and ultimately—God willing—prevent it all."

Sasuke let out a heavy sigh. A lot to process, indeed. "How long have you known this?"

"Since a year ago. In fact, Itachi was supposed to be sent back to Konoha and have someone else manage Uchiha Energies in the country he was in. But because of this tension, your father decided to let him stay there and build good relationships with their national oil companies."

"And Hinata's sudden deployment as requested by her father? Four years ago. Was that also for that?"

Naruto nodded to confirm Sasuke's revelation. And it all hit him. She went and worked hard for four years to build better relationships through the WB with the national banks because Hiashi knew about it all.

"But Hinata wasn't aware of this. It was better that way. I guess both Hiashi and Fugaku ran out of ideas and decided it was best to reconcile. After all, innocent lives depended on it. So now, here we are." Naruto explained.

"I understand. What happens after we get married? Are there things we need to do?" Sasuke asked.

"Yes. Hinata will declare herself the official heiress of the company despite being married to you. And you are going to declare heir of Uchiha Energies. It will shake the world's understanding of marriage. Luckily for you, Konoha released a new marital law regarding heirs, that both parties are entitled to keep running the companies without jeopardizing it at all. If any, it would be easier to merge and establish joint ventures because of the marital union. Everything's been arranged for this specific time, Sasuke, so I beg you to go through with it."

"Was Hinata briefed about this at all?"

"She is being briefed right now as we speak."

A whirlwind grew in Sasuke's being. Was this God's answer when Sasuke asked for atonement? It did look like they had no choice, and for the first time ever, Sasuke didn't mind it. It wasn't because of Hinata, but it was because he couldn't stomach the thought of ignoring what could be a dystopian future. This Uchiha finally arrived at his destiny, so he had to go through with it.

"I asked her to marry me before I knew any of this."

"Oh. Wow. Well, then, this should bring joy despite your history. Or, maybe, this could help you two to forgive. Did she respond?"

"Nope, she didn't."

Naruto seemed as if he made an "Oh—" face as he continued eating his chicken wing.

"Will there be a chance that people are trying to, you know, murder each other?"

"As long as we all keep security on the down low, and be prepared in case there is an attack, I think you two will be okay."

Both Naruto and Sasuke ended up finishing one glass of beer. The conversation didn't really support the willingness to go wild on a pint, but maybe that was a better decision. The next morning, Sasuke was late for work. Not that it mattered, but it did give off a better impression to be earlier than most. He came in precisely at 10 AM. Before he entered his office, Karin, his assistant, stood from her chair,

"Um, Sasuke-san,"

The Uchiha turned. "Yeah? Oh, sorry. Good morning." He said, thinking maybe he was rude for being silent.

"It's not that at all—" Karin reassured, "It's, um, someone's in your office. She said she's your fiancé. I didn't know you got engaged, sir. Congratulations."

Sasuke blinked. For all he knew, Hinata didn't respond to his proposal.

"Did you make tea?" He managed to ask Karin.

"N-No, I asked her if she wanted any, but she declined."

"Hn. Make her peppermint tea. It's her favorite."

"Yes, sir."

"Oh, and," Sasuke said, pausing his decision to open his office doors to look at Karin again, "Thank you. Wish us luck."

Sasuke figured Karin must have been shocked to know that over two nights, Sasuke managed to ask someone to marry him. But, oh well, what was he supposed to do? Acting like it was normal probably worked better than having to explain to her the truth as if it were some kind of conspiracy theory.

Once he entered his office, he saw Hinata sitting on one of his couches, looking out the city through a big window right behind his desk that was positioned in the center. He also realized she had a suit hanging on a clothes hanger, placed right next to where she was sitting.

"Good morning," Sasuke said, walking over to his desk.

Hinata didn't stand right away, but she did respond. "Good morning," she said. The girl then stood and walked over to sit on the chair positioned across from him. "You have a nice office."

"Thanks," Sasuke said, placing his laptop on his desk. Not long after, Karin entered the room with a teapot and two cups. Once she left, Hinata focused her gaze on her fiancé.

"Karin told me you rejected the tea offer," Sasuke had said.

"Yes, I did. I guess I wanted to wait for you. You're late."

"I am," he said, studying her. She was very calm and composed. "Sorry to have kept you waiting. I was unaware you'd come."

"Don't apologize. I didn't tell you I was coming anyway."

Silence. Sasuke sat back on his chair as if it could help him relax. Not that her presence was intimidating, it was mainly just because he couldn't get the absurd story from last night out of his head. He wondered how Hinata reacted.

"Alright, I'll marry you."

The Uchiha lifted his dark eyes to look at the woman across from him. She was pouring both of them peppermint tea, and the smile on her face was a hint of Sasuke's success. He was right; she did crave that tea.

"But you're going to put me first in everything you do. Promise?" Hinata asked.

That was an easy answer for Sasuke. "I promise."

"One more thing," she said after a sip of her tea. "No sex until we're married."

A smirk was evident on the Uchiha's face. "Deal."

There was a pause between the two where they were just focused on each other. Sasuke had forgotten how much he missed her presence. When the thought of marrying her settled in, he remembered that he had no ring to give her. Maybe he could ask Karin to buy one before the engagement dinner that night. He decided to change the subject for now.

"You've been briefed about why we are to marry?"

A nod came from Hinata. "Neji-nii told me everything."

"Good. We're going to have to look like we really love each other, so, I'm going to take a photo of you right now and post it on my Instagram." He had said, and if Hinata focused hard enough, she would have been able to see a tint of red on his cheeks. Instagram was not his thing but… well. He had to.

"Post it on your Stories and tag me." She answered with a small smile as if she was trying to hold back a giggle.

Sasuke took his phone a snapped a picture of Hinata holding her tea cup and posted it on his social media as planned. Once that was done, he placed his phone on his desk.

"Is your ex-boyfriend upset?" He asked.

"Very."

"I see. Who was he, if I may know?"

"I'll tell you someday," Hinata said, placing her teacup on his desk. "Hana might be upset, too."

"She's not my girlfriend. But, I didn't tell her yet. I will, though."

His relationship with Hana had been fuck buddies from the start. They wouldn't even talk to each other if they didn't look for sex. It would be weeks and sometimes months until Hana sends him a message. Other times, she'd be in a relationship, and that was when she didn't contact him for a whole year. Until finally she did and told him the relationship didn't work. When moments like those could have led him and Hana into being a couple, something inside Sasuke would instantly reject the idea. Hana was never that interesting to Sasuke.

"That suit," Hinata pointed at the outfit placed on the couch, "is for you to wear tonight. My engagement gift."

Sasuke stood to walk towards his couch to take a closer look. He touched the fabric and was very pleased with its design. "Thank you."

Hinata smiled as she grabbed her handbag, ready to leave. "I'm glad you like it."

The Uchiha departed his attention from the gift to show care to the heiress. She was exquisite, as always. Sasuke failed to remember times when she looked less beautiful. With her being this amazing, Sasuke was convinced it was hard for Hinata to be ugly.

His hand reached her cheek and he gave her a brief caress. "I have a gift for you too. But let's save it for tonight."

Hinata gave the man a nod, supplicating was his touch, as if she's yearned for it for far too long. "Okay."

The man leaned in to give her lips a gentle peck before she left the building. It was clear that the affection they both shared was still wounded by past memories and tragedies. Sasuke began to wonder if they both will eventually come out of it and find themselves to truly love with only a scar to look back on. Because a scar is evidence things can heal and that love is greater than anyone's past mistakes.

He watched her through his window as she stepped into her car, the driver closing the door for her. As they drove away, Sasuke studied the blue sky. It was too strange how they both ended up together. They could go as far as the ends of the earth and they'd still find each other again.

But now, she will be called Uchiha Hinata.