Lavender
7. blood runs
Hinata never cried in his presence. She wouldn't let him see that of her.
Often, she'd bite her lip, curling her fingers into her palms to make taut fists, and close her eyes so tightly it felt as though her eyes might be crushed, but at least the tears didn't escape. She never yelled back at him either, staying quiet and motionless save a few nods, and 'Yes, father's until he granted her leave.
'I'm sorry, Daddy…'
Hiashi never hit his daughter. He would yell, but never in too harsh of words, and often push her a little farther than he knew he should in training, yet not to the point of serious injury. He would never purposely mar her body, the same flesh and blood as his own.
Sometimes, he would just grant her silence and leave.
Those times hurt the most.
He could almost hear her silent questions, as she bowed her head and took every word of his scolding.
'Do you hate me, Daddy? Am I not enough for you, Daddy? Do I disappoint you, Daddy, and I'm sorry if I do…'
He sighed, putting a hand on her shoulder.
'I could never hate you, Hinata. I do wish you were more, but as much I may not show it, I would never exchange you…'
She wasn't the heir he wanted. Hanabi would be a much better choice, as would Neji. But by birthright, it was Hinata's position, given to her by dumb luck or fate (or perhaps both). It would be beyond cruel to deny her of that without at least giving her a chance. And she was trying… he could tell.
'You are my daughter… and that has to be enough.'