Chapter Zwei

Give it some more time

And we'll touch upon land

Amidst the serenity of the skies

I feel not as free as the eagle that soars

With each closing distance

As we get closer to earth

A gravitational weight

Bears down upon the chest

My heart feels heavy

I look not forward to the life

That awaits my coming

Sometimes we can try and close certain chapters in our life but they have a tendency to flip back to that exact page because of the bookmark we accidentally left behind from the last time. We do not want to remember the bad times but they just flow back at the trigger of simple things. It weighs upon the present and halts the progress into the future. They are like luggage we can never seem to let go.

We started the story with a goodbye. Now we move onto the conference that is catalytic to all the changes.

This day did not start off well.

Murphy's Law was at work.

It was late morning with a slight tinge of warmth from the rays that peeped through the skies. The scene is at Narita International Airport where a certain young woman is making her way out the customs.

Hinata strolled through the gates and was greeted by a familiar face.

"You're late."

She grinned at his greeting and he helped her with her luggage. He was a tall figure who favored slouching but presented himself well when it was required. His 'uniform' consisted of dark suits with white shirts and for presentation sake, wore his long hair in a tie with the bits sticking out. Though of a skinny build, he manages to look quite smart in his attire for the most part.

They walked out of the airport to a black BMW and drove off.

She insisted on the concept of minimalism when it came to minor stuff as such picking her up. None of that needing a chauffeur fancy thing. Practicality ruled in her books, which was good since he liked things run that same way too.

Hinata looked out at the architectural settings as they drew close to the city. It has been a long time since she was here. Very long time.

Shikamaru wind down the window as they cruised along a winding route. One hand guided the steering wheel and the other flicked the lighter and lit a single cigarette that was between his lips.

"Cold turkey not working?" She asked.

"Troublesome is more like it." He grinned as he blew the offending smoke out the window.

"Of all things you picked up from Asuma-sensei, you had to pick up fagging."

Sarutobi Asuma, Hinata's lawyer and Shikamaru's mentor, he takes it in his stride to be a guardian to the two of them and if there was one bad habit he had was the perpetual chain-smoking that doesn't seem to be affecting his health or life span. Then again, it's second-hand smoke that kills first.

They were both laughing about it until she suddenly felt nauseous.

"Yo, what's wrong Hinata?"

She covered her mouth and calmed herself.

"Nothing. Just not feeling so well."

"Humph. Must be due to the lack of rest. You should've let me handle the Kim's case in Seoul while you came over here and got some rest before the conference."

"Doesn't matter. I just need to relax a bit that's all."

He shook his head.

"You may be my boss but it doesn't mean you've the right to do everything and get yourself sick."

"Hai. Mr. Nagger. I promise not to push myself too hard all right? Besides it's just a conference, it shouldn't get strenuous."

"I wanted to talk to you about this. Hyuuga Corporations will be there."

She froze. Taking a deep breath, she asked, "But only the representative right?"

"No, Hyuuga Hiashi, Hanabi and Neji will be there."

Her heart sank. She wasn't that mentally prepared to face them yet.

"This must be something big for them to actually come. Sigh. I've wanted to delay meeting them for a while but I guess that's not an option anymore."

"You can't run from them forever. They are still family. Blood ties run deep, you can't just walk away that easily."

"It's different when you've walked out on them!"

Her fits were clenched.

Damn it.

"Sigh. I mean yes, they are still family but things are just not the same Shikamaru. To my father, I'm not his daughter. I'm the black mark on his expensive suit that he can't get the cleaners to clean off. I'm the black sheep that doesn't exist as far as he's concern."

"True. But Hanabi..."

"Hanabi will make a fine president for Hyuuga Corporations. She's smart and capable. I've no problems with her. Not since that incident."

Oh yeah, that little bitch had better be grateful. You nearly lost your life because of that incident, Shikamaru thought.

"Humph. If you ask me, Neji is still the better candidate for president. Hanabi pales in comparison to that guy."

"True. But traditions will not let any of the branch members stand as candidate for the presidential post, otherwise, Neiji would definitely be the heir and perhaps, things might have been better."

Shikamaru could only inhale his smoke and wondered. He sincerely doubts it.

"Then again, it makes sense. The Uchiha International are the organizers of today's conference, given the good relations they have, it's not too hard to imagine why they wouldn't be attending."

"Today is also the day that all of you will debut officially as directors of Konoha Corporations, everyone in the industry will want to have a good look at you."

"Shikamaru."

"Hmm?"

"You're not helping to alleviate my anxiety here."

He laughed as he turned into The Oriental hotel, owned by the Uchiha family. He parked in front at the entrance and helped her out. Tossing the keys for valet parking, he walked her in.

"All right. The conference had started about an hour ago but you can go in quietly. I've informed the organizers earlier so don't worry about being late. The necessary documents are in the bag and I'll take the rest of your stuff back to the apartment first and come back later to get you. Are you sure you are up to it?"

He saw that her face was pale unlike her usual porcelain fairness that illuminates. But she assured him that she was fine.

"I'll be fine. Stop fussing about me." She took the document bag from him and waved him off. "I better be off now. Bye!"

She smiled before following the signs to the main ballroom.

He wasn't too sure but still he obeyed and headed off as well.

Hinata actually didn't feel so great. The nausea was growing worse and the anxiety that was growing inside was not helping. But there was no way that she could turn back from this. Her attendance was expected and she wasn't about to let down her friends who are already in there and most certainly, she wasn't about to let her family find more reason to put her down.

She was determined to walk through those doors and lived through today.

From now on, as director of Konoha Corporations, she would no longer endorse any more show of weakness.

She continued her way down the carpeted floor, getting one step closer to facing past faces and future promises.

"Where is Hinata? She's so damn late!"

Ino muttered to herself as she tries to stay awake in the presence of some guy who was presenting something on economic trends for the next financial year.

Boring.

It was a typical conference but with added touch of class, as expected of the Uchiha Family. The main attraction for her today would be the delectable sons, to be more specific, Uchiha Sasuke. And no, obviously such good looks would not be only noticed by her. Her best friend, Haruno Sakura was staring as well. Tenten, the dear girl was absorbed with the young Hyuuga male, Neiji.

Conference nonsense, they were only there to be presentable to the crowd.

Yamanaka Ino with the model figure wore a dark crisp pants suit from while Sakura opted for a more feminine skirt and top combo. Tenten stayed with a dress and white jacket. All outfits were complete with killer heels and flowing hair to boot, the men were doing some staring as well.

A pity it wasn't from the ones they were eyeing.

She took yet another sip from the water glass and looked at the program for the umpteenth time.

There was only so much a girl can do to pretend she was fascinated with currency investment.

A turn of the door was heard and set of heels came clicking across the carpeted floor towards them.

Finally! She's here, at least people can stop staring at the empty seat beside her and speculating about her absence.

She turned 30 degrees right to watch as a slender lady in white pants suit came walking towards them. She smiled. She really resembled more of an angel than the rest of them put together.

Aye, many eyes followed that same slender figure as she came walking across the hall. After many smacks on the head, at least she has learnt some poise in her walking and to carry herself with some confidence.

Very much different from the shy girl of yesterday.

Neji was quietly watching Hinata as she was being led in by the usher.

At first he dismissed the clicks and tried to listen to the speaker but soon from the corner of his eyes, came an image of young woman that breezed through the sides.

The memory of the eighteen year old that walked out the Main house was now replaced by the image of a woman, all grown up.

The finer bone structures had finally emerged and they add to the delicate appeal of her illuminating skin. The slender figure was hugged by the white pants suit she wore. She was no voluptuous creature, but still the curves hinted at the feminine body that had finally developed over the years away from his eyes. He traced the high ponytail that allowed glances at her neck that led the straying eyes to the lacy camisole that peeped from underneath the jacket. The lavender hues of the lacey top brought out the soft dreamy look in those pearls that were greeting everyone except him.

His heart ached.

How he missed her so much.

He turned to look at his uncle and Hanabi. The old man may show no emotion but underneath he was glad to see her still well.

He missed her, even if pride refused acknowledgement.

The girl went forth to her assigned table and was seated. Neiji only wondered at what was to be expected over the course of the next few days.

Hinata, fate in the hands of men can play a cruel game.

As soon as she was seated, the speaker wrapped the speech up and went back to his seat.

"Damn you! You were spared from being bored to death!" Ino hissed in Hinata's ear. "And dear, you should wear the suit more often, you look gorgeous."

The girl blushed and smiled in returned.

"I'm serious! We could always ask for a second opinion from the room."

They both laughed but soon got serious when the senior Uchiha took the stand.

"Ladies and gentlemen, thank you all for making the attendance for today's conference. It is very much appreciated. It was stated on the program that you would be proceeding to hear more about globalization and its effect upon the property market. I am unfortunate to inform that from that item onward, all else is invalid."

The announcement was received with much speculation from the crowd below, save for the Hyuugas and his sons.

Hinata suddenly remembered Shikamaru's words just as she was getting out the car.

"Something about this conference doesn't sit well with me, even though I had things checked out already. But whatever it is, keep safe and don't lose your cool all right?"

She shook her head.

Shikamaru, sometimes I wonder if it's such a good thing for you to be right all the time.

The dignified man raised his hand for cooperation from the crowd.

"I would assume that all of you have met my sons – Itachi and Sasuke. It is my wish before I hand over the running of my company to them, to have Itachi married. For such a purpose, you were all invited today to partake in the selection process for a bride for him. All eligible ladies in the room will be asked to attend an interview session conducted by myself and my good friend Hyuuga-dono. Details will be included in the package that is being delivered to all at this very moment."

Files of men and women in dark suits started distributing envelopes to everyone. All four girls of the Konoha Corp were not too please to hear such news, even if they found the gentlemen rather attractive.

Marriage was a separate deal from business.

"Many of you may find it ludicrous for resorting to such means, but it was necessary in order to gather all suitable candidates into one single venue. The next few days will be spent to get to know all the fine ladies and their families better before a decision will be made."

Hinata glanced at the Uchiha Itachi. She traced his tall length from foot up. Dark. Every inch of this man was exuding mystery. From the shoes to the clothes to his looks, Uchiha Itachi was every inch an attractive man. There was no real reason for such a drastic measure to hunt for a bride, his looks alone was sufficient to garner enough women who would be all too willing to marry him. And even more unnecessary for the presence of her family either. Unless….

Her thoughts broke when her eyes came into contact with brooding red ones. They were looking directly at her.

He made it not a subtle business to explore the Hyuuga girl, allowing his eyes to roll over from head to toe.

She felt exposed under his gaze.

Flushing, she looked away and touched upon the envelope in front of her.

"I believe that everyone is tired and hence, we will end today's session. The series of interviews will begin tomorrow at the respective times allocated in the envelope. I wish you all good day."

And he nodded before heading out the place with his sons in tow with the Hyuugas not too far behind.

"Is he out of his freaking mind!" Ino yelled when she got into the car.

"Yo loud one, will you pipe down? There's no need to yell here." Shikamaru yelled from the driver seat. They were making their way to Hinata's place and Shikamaru had just had his fill of her complaining.

"Just drive all right? After hearing that the conference is just a cover for getting Uchiha Itachi a bride, a girl just needs to let out some steam. It would an entirely different affair if he was trying to marry off both sons."

Shikamaru merely rolled his eyes and looked at the sleeping Hinata in the passenger seat.

The poor girl had a long day.

Her façade of perfection was shattered the instant they walked out of the ballroom.

One minute she was smiling and laughing with the girls.

The next saw a change of color to her face and the record dash to the nearest bathroom facility to egest much of the breakfast she had earlier.

She insisted she was fine amidst all the fuss around her by her concerned friends but in the end she lost and was promptly escorted to the hotel's resident doctor.

FLASHBACK

"Ne! I'm fine really! There's no need for this!"

A frantic Hinata was being pulled by both Sakura and Ino rather roughly towards the way that the staff pointed them to.

"Stop struggling! We'll let the doctor decided whether you're fine or not!" Sakura told Hinata. Tenten was off with Shikamaru to handle some crisis from one of the offices and hence couldn't help her out of the situation.

"Demo!"

They both gave her the eye and she kept quiet and allowed herself to be led.

"Finally we reach isolated sacred ground of the health facilities. Argh! The darn staff could have lent a hand to bring us here!" Ino said as they approach the door.

Sakura obliged some courtesy and knocked. A nurse came out and helped Hinata to the bed inside.

After going through the usual squeezing the arm to bits for pressure and sticking the glass tube into the mouth for temperature, Hinata was left to rest until the doctor came.

Sakura and Ino sat there gushing about the handsome sons and the ridiculous situation that they gotten themselves into.

"Sasuke is still as gorgeous as I last saw him in high school! Suave and composed. Ooh why couldn't they be finding a bride for him?" The pink-haired one gushed with that dreamy look in her eyes. Ino was guilty of patient abandonment as well, joining in with the fantasizing.

Hinata could only look at her friends in amusement as she sat at the edge of the bed.

The door suddenly slide open and a rather tall familiar figure came strolling through.

"Sasuke!" The other two cried upon seeing him.

The figure in mandarin collared suit did not acknowledge them and instead walked straight up to Hinata.

"Hinata-san?" he checked while he scanned through the report filled in by the nurse earlier.

"Hai. Sasuke-san."

He got a stethoscope from the doctor's desk before he proceeded to sit in front of her.

All the ladies got confused and he sensed it.

"I'm a qualified practitioner, so can you relax? I'm not going to hurt Hinata-san." He shot a look at the blonde and pink-haired ones who were drooling.

"Hai! We believe you!"

He rubbed his temples.

"Nurse!" And the flustered uniformed girl from before came in. "Could you escort them outside?"

She hastily bowed and proceeded to ask the ladies in question to head out to the waiting area. They went but rather very reluctantly.

Oh how much they wished to be in Hinata's shoes at the moment!

Sasuke flicked a stray hair out of his face before turning his onyx eyes upon Hinata.

"Shall we?"

She nodded and he proceeded to examine her more thoroughly.

After some minutes, he walked away to the desk and sat down.

"Hinata-san, I'm pleased to say that there's nothing wrong with you aside from a lack of sleep and rest. But you're also a little anemic and so I'll prescribe some iron pills to supplement your diet but do take care to eat a balanced diet and exercise regularly all right?"

"Hai. Arigato Dr. Uchiha."

He looked at her and smiled.

"Maybe you should start getting used to Sasuke instead." He said quietly.

"I'm sorry. Did you say something?"

"No, it's nothing."

She lowered her eyes. She was certain she heard something but it didn't matter. She then proceeded to get off the bed and went forth to thank him again.

"Douitashimashite. I'll see you tomorrow then."

"Pardon me?"

"For the interview Hinata-san, I believe your interview with my father is tomorrow afternoon."

"Oh. Hai. I haven't read the contents of the envelope yet."

"Soka. Regardless, it's best that you rest for the remaining of today. Do take care of yourself. "

END OF FLASHBACK

Shikamaru hoped that she was awake enough later for a little talk. There was something nagging at him and he needed to iron some details with her.

He blew out yet another whiff of smoke out the window and pondered upon the situation.

Troublesome. It looks like he wasn't going to be able to have an early night.

Uchiha Sasuke finally reached back to the family residence after checking through some minor details at the office. He headed for a shower before finally strolling to the study where he wanted to review a proposal for a deal with yet another firm.

He was enjoying some peace when his older brother came in as well. Itachi made himself comfortable and sipped some brandy from a crystal glass.

Sasuke ignored him. It was but customary. Itachi would leave after his habitual drink was downed. He just needed to exercise some tolerance and privacy will be returned.

"Are you excited about the marriage?"

"Me? Excited?" He laughed. "Why should I be affected at all?"

"That is true. After all, it is only the acquisition of yet another female."

Itachi merely shrugged.

"And I suppose I'll be doing the taking care bit since I highly doubt you'll ever be around enough to."

At that, Itachi glare and stared at his brother.

"Do not think about touching her. She's to be my wife, not yours."

Sasuke kept his eyes on the documents before him.

Itachi downed the last bit of the hard liquid before he stood up from the chair to leave.

"She has lovely skin, soft and silky to the touch, my dear brother. Very nice with a hint of lavender."

And Itachi stood in front of him, facing him squarely.

"What did you do?"

Sasuke merely shrugged.

"Nothing. She was feeling nauseous so I examined her. Thoroughly."

The red eyes contested with the onyx ones and he laughed.

"Nice try, my dear brother. You can keep to sliding stethoscope over the surface, because that is all you can ever do."

And he walked out, flinging the glass to shatter its crystal bits in the fire, leaving Sasuke to his privacy.

Why should the girl go to the one who doesn't love?

Author's note:

Hi Everyone,

Hope everyone enjoyed the 2nd installation! The plot is still open for suggestions and so I hope to hear from you guys!

Cheers,

Arte

Xoni Newcomer: Thanks so your reveiew! As for a pairing with a Uchiha, I believe we can see that surfacing:)

Way-farer-redemption: Thanks I think I will continue! So hope that you continue to read too!

Hiasobi: As I said, it is quite likely to be a pairing with an Uchiha but things are not certain yet. After all Neji has feelings for her too and so the plot develops :)

Inocus: Thanks! Hope you enjoyed this chapter!