Chapter Four: I want to save you, Naruto!

Hinata's eyes fluttered open as the sun peeped through the blinds, stirring her from her slumber. She rubbed her eyes gently and rolled on her side. Her breathing ceased for a moment as she was faced to face with Naruto, who was sleeping.

For a moment, she had forgotten where she was. Naruto looked so childlike with his soft features. However, underneath that childlike innocence, you would have never expected a cold-blooded murderer to lie within.

His hair called out to her, and Hinata's hand trembled as she slowly reached for Naruto's soft blond hair. Just a touch wouldn't hurt him, right? She closed her eyes as her fingers ran through his beautiful locks. Just as she expected, it was nice and soft.

Her breathing ceased when she opened her eyes and seen Naruto staring at her, sheepishly. Hinata quickly pulled back her hand and turned away from him. Yup. Death was calling out to her now.

"Hinata,"

She quickly pulled the blanket over her head and said in a muffled voice, "I'm sorry, Naruto. But your h-hair l-looked soft. I-I couldn't help m-myself," Her face heated up, and her fingers trembled, causing the blanket to shake.

There was a long pause,and it made Hinata anxious. As she was about to glance at him, he wrapped his arms around her waist and rested his head on Hinata's chest. Her heart was racing fast, especially when he glanced at her with his deep blue eyes. They glistened with warmness, and he quickly buried his face between her breast.

Before he did so, Hinata noticed his slightly red cheeks. "Is he embarrassed?"

Hinata's hand hovered over Naruto's head, and she shakenly ran her hand through his hair. He didn't say anything, but the grip loosened around her waist, and she felt his muscles relaxing. She figured she was doing something right as he didn't complain about her touching him.

After a while, Naruto lifted his head and gazed into Hinata's beautiful eyes before he smiled widely. "Are you ready?"

Hinata couldn't say anything as she felt her body float. Love. She never realized it, but after meeting Naruto, she discovered there were different types of love. The love she had for Kurenai was different from the one she had for Naruto.

He made her feel- different. But no matter how different he made her feel, she couldn't forget his true nature. Murderer. Why? What pleasure did he get in murdering people?

Touch.

Naruto tilted his head to the side as Hinata placed her warm fingertips on the side of his left cheek.

Then a thought came to mind. Maybe she could change Naruto? How? She knew. "I'll spend more time with him. If I spend more time with him... maybe- maybe he wouldn't have this bloodlust,and he'll change."

A slight yelp escaped her lips when he grasped his hand into hers. "Are you okay?" His voice was laced with concern.

"I'm fine, Naruto." She said, smiling. "Classes are going to start soon."

His eyes darted to the clock on the dresser and he nodded. "You should probably get ready so we can stop to get your things," He said, climbing off the bed.

Hinata leaned up and her heart stopped. "Kurenai!" "Naruto, um… do you know where my phone is?"

"It's on the dresser." He pointed at it.

Hinata picked up her phone and was surprised to find it was turned off. "I was so caught up with Naruto that I didn't think to tell Kurenai where I was. I hope she isn't worried or upset with me."

After a while, her phone turned on and the voicemail and messages came in spontaneously.

40 New Voicemails

40 Unread Messages

Hinata gulped. Now that she thought about it, how could she tell Kurenai she was sleeping at a boy's house? She jumped slightly and lifted her head.

"Is everything okay, Hinata?" Naruto asked. "You seem troubled." He frowned, slightly.

"Oh, my phone was off, and I forgot to message my caretaker,"

"I hope I didn't cause you any problems," Naruto rubbed the back of his head. "I should have probably told you to reach out to let somebody know."

Hinata shook her head. "No, no. It's not your fault," She mumbled, "I should have been more responsible."

"Well, let's get going and I'll explain the situation to her." Naruto chuckled lightly. "Hopefully, she won't kick me out and ban me from seeing you."

"She wouldn't do that," Hinata said, unsurely. "A-and you're my only friend, so I wouldn't let her do that," She mumbled the last part.

Naruto's eyes widened, slightly. "Oh really?" He hummed. "Am I that important to you?" He questioned her.

Hinata gazed at him and nodded. "You are," She swallowed the lump in her throat.

It was like the sun stepped into the room, and Naruto's smile widened, showing his pearly white teeth. "That makes me happy," He scratched his cheek. "I don't want you to get into deeper trouble. Let's get going," He said, handing her the clothes she worn last night.


Naruto watched as the young girl stood in front of the brown door, trembling. He raised his right eyebrow and did it for her.

Knock. Knock.

Hinata glanced up at him and had almost forgotten why she or he was even here.

The door swung open and an older woman stared tearily eyed at the youngster. Without saying a word, she embraced the young girl and squeezed her tightly. Hinata returned the hug and mumbled, "Sorry,"

"Are you okay?" Was all Kurenai wanted to know. As long as she was okay, it was all that mattered.

"Yes,"

Kurenai released the girl and was startled to find a young-looking boy not too far from Hinata. Before she could say anything, he bowed. "I'm sorry,"

"No, it's my fault, Naruto," Hinata said, staring horrified at him. Why was he apologizing? "I should have texted or at least called her,"

"I'm sorry," He said once more, disregarding everything Hinata said. "I was too tired to take Hinata home, and I didn't want her to catch a cab by herself. Please don't be too upset with her."

Hinata was surprised that Naruto would take the whole blame, after all, she was the one who was responsible for ensuring Kurenai her safety.

Kurenai wanted to say something to the boy. He was a young man, and he should have been responsible for making sure Hinata got home safely; tired or not. But she decided against it. By the way Hinata was acting, and the way her face flushed, Kurenai knew this was the young man who had Hinata smitten.

"Come in," Kurenai said, stepping to the side.

Hinata stepped into the apartment and Naruto followed behind her. Small. Cozy. Warm. A friendly apartment indeed. Pictures lined the wall with Kurenai and Hinata, and Naruto knew the woman cared for the young girl so much- almost as if she was her own.

"Kurenai, I'm sorry," Hinata said, following Kurenai into the kitchen. "Please don't be upset with me," She cast her eyes down and stared at her feet. "I didn't mean to."

There was a quick pause, and Kurenai turned to face Hinata. "Hinata, I am a little upset with you, but I am glad you are safe. Please let me know where you are always. I couldn't sleep. I went to the police and they couldn't do anything," Kurenai sighed, heavily. "Asuma even went searching for you."

Hinata's eyes watered while she digested all the information Kurenai was giving her. She loved the woman like her very own mother, and she didn't want to hurt her. Hinata would never hurt Kurenai.

Kurenai saw the little teardrop forming, and she melted. "Hinata, it's okay." Kurenai patted her on the top of her head. "I'm not upset anymore. I'm just glad you're safe. That's all I ever want is for your safety, okay?"

Hinata nodded as she wiped the fresh tears from her eyes. "Please introduce me to your friend," Kurenai pointed out to the boy who was sitting on the sofa.

"Ah," Hinata looked at Naruto and then Kurenai. She pulled Kurenai, shyly, over to Naruto and the two sat opposite him.

"Kurenai, this is Naruto... my friend, and classmate," She said in her usual soft voice. "And Naruto this is Kurenai, my caretaker."

Blonde hair. Playful eyes. Perfect smile. Kurenai arched her eyebrow as she studied the boy. Bad boy attire. Yeah, she had seen students like this at school and they were always troublemakers.

Naruto caught her staring at him, and his smile widened even more. "It's a pleasure to meet you, Miss Kurenai,"

"Likewise," She responded. "Hinata said you're her classmate. Do you also go to Konoha University?"

Naruto nodded. "Yes, ma'am,"

"That's nice. What are you majoring in?"

Hinata felt her heart fall to her stomach. "Forensic pathology," He replied, calmly.

Kurenai was surprised. The boy didn't look like he would go for something in that field. "That's a very interesting field you are going in. May I ask why?"

"It wasn't always my career choice," Naruto said, rubbing the back of his head, "but I've always studied books on the human body, and I guess it's just something I wanted to do," He said, shrugging his shoulders.

"I see. Well, continue to study. Education is key." Kurenai replied.

"Yes, ma'am,"

"Hinata, you should get ready. You two still have to catch the train," Kurenai pointed out.

Hinata looked at the clock on the wall and quickly got up. "I'll be right back, Naruto. Thank you again Kurenai," Hinata said, bowing.

After Hinata was out of sight, Kurenai leaned over and stared into Naruto's eyes. "Now you listen carefully to me," She said in a threatening tone, "that girl means everything to me, and I don't want you getting any ideas." She squinted her eyes.

Naruto sat there and listened to her. His eyes glistened, which caught Kurenai by surprised. "Don't worry, Miss Kurenai. Hinata is very special to me and I would never hurt her." He smiled softly. "I'll never hurt her." He muttered the last part again.

Kurenai sighed mentally. She couldn't detect any lies, but still! Hinata never did anything like this since she met Naruto, and she didn't have those kinds of experiences with men.

"I'm sorry I took so long," Hinata said as she stepped into the living room. Today, she wore a long-sleeve white shirt, and a pair of jeans suspenders dress.

Naruto got up and bowed. "Thank you for having me, Miss Kurenai."

Kurenai smiled, weakly. "Have a nice day, Hinata." She nodded her head at Naruto. "And you too, Naruto."


Classes ended, and Naruto was packing his belongings. Hinata spent all classes trying to find ways to keep the boy busy, and he did tell her to call him whenever she was lonely.

"I'll see you later, Hinata," Naruto said, throwing his bag over his shoulder. She reached out for him and wrapped her arm around his.

Naruto gazed down at her, and she had pleading eyes that sparkled. Some students who were still lingering in the class saw the two, and they started whispering amongst one another. "Yes, Hinata?"

"Ah, um- I want t-t-to spend time with you if you want to," She mumbled underneath her breath. "B-but yet again, you probably don't want to because we saw each other last night." She rambled on.

"Let's go to the library and catch up on some homework," Naruto suggested.

She glanced up at him and he was smiling... like always. It made her heart fluttered because he always smiled at her, and never made her feel like she was a burden. "Oh, I'm sorry," She said releasing her grip from his arm. "I didn't mean to,"

Naruto shook his head. "No, it's fine." He said as he slipped his hand into hers. "I like when you hold onto me," He burst into a fit of laughter when he saw Hinata turning completely red.

Hinata didn't utter a word as her world was consumed with the confession Naruto had just said. She didn't even realize they were in the library until she felt someone poking her on her cheek.

"Huh?"

"You've been spaced out for a while, Hinata. Sometimes you worry me," Naruto pouted, cutely.

"Ah, I'm sorry," Hinata whispered. "Let's get started."

The library was quiet, and most students tried to focus on the subject they had in front of them. Hinata's eyes scanned through the pages as she tried to search for the answers without being focused on Naruto too much.

However, she noticed she had a lot of firsts with him. Her first time being invited out, sleeping over at a friend's house, and now she was having a study session. She quickly glanced up and saw the boy playing on his phone.

Naruto peeped from behind his phone and Hinata yelp once he caught her gawking at him. "Ne, Hinata I need help with this," Naruto said pointing to the Math equation. "Can you help me?"

"Sure," Hinata said. Naruto smiled as he took the empty seat next to her. Hinata swallowed the lump in her throat as his scent danced around her. "I'm not sure if I can explain it correctly."

"I believe in you," He said, rubbing the top of her head.

"Yes, thank you," She said, feeling a little better about herself. Hinata went on explaining the problems to Naruto who nodded occasionally, to show Hinata he was listening.

"Wow Hinata! You should be a teacher. I understood everything you said." Naruto boasted. "You're really smart!"

Some students that were left turned their heads to the duo, and Hinata blushed in embarrassment. "Naruto, y-you shouldn't speak so loudly," Hinata told him.

He rubbed the back of his head and smiled. "Sorry,"

"Why is he always yelling?"

"I told you it was him."

Naruto turned his head to the right and saw Shikamaru walking along with Kiba and Ino.

"Baka! We could hear you outside!" Kiba said hitting the boy on the top of his head.

Naruto held his head and glared at Kiba. "I'm not that loud!"

"Yes, you are!" Kiba argued back.

"I'm not!" Naruto retorted, childishly.

"You guys are going to cause us to get kicked out," Ino complained.

"Too late," Shikamaru mumbled.

"I'm going to have to ask you to leave," An older hunched woman came. "This is a library and you're disturbing the other students," She said wiggling her finger in Naruto's face.

"We're sorry, ma'am," Ino apologized. "Let's go, guys," She mumbled.

Hinata gathered her stuff and noticed Naruto didn't budge. Instead, he stared at the older woman walking away- deadly. She squeezed his arm and stared at him with pleading eyes. "Ne, Naruto let's go,"

He couldn't help but smile. "Sure,"

Time flew by quickly because it was almost nighttime when they made their way out of the library. Hinata knew she couldn't be out too much longer because she didn't want Kurenai to worry again.

"Let's get some burgers!" Ino said, grinning.

Hinata looked up at Naruto and he wrapped his arm around her. "Sorry Ino, but I need to get Hinata home. Maybe some other time!" He grinned.

"Kiba? Shikamaru?" Ino said glancing at the two older boys.

"I'm down for some burgers," Kiba said, placing his arms behind his head. Every so often he would glance at the corner of his eyes to take a glimpse at Hinata.

"I'll see you guys later," Naruto said.

"Good night," Hinata said in her usual soft tone and bowed slightly.

She quickly walked after Naruto who started ahead of her.

"Looks like Naruto has a secret admirer," Ino said, giggling.

"Hinata doesn't like him!" Kiba shouted.

Ino shrugged her shoulders. "It's not like she'll like you,"

Kiba's face turned red and he quickly closed his mouth. He wasn't going to argue with Ino. And besides, why wouldn't Hinata like him? He was better looking than the blonde idiot. He was far smarter than him, taller and not to mention good looking. Compared to Naruto, he was far more superior than him.


Hinata glanced at the taller boy, and he stared back at her, smiling. The two had made it to her apartment complex, and they were standing just outside her door.

"Well, this is your stop," Naruto grinned, "I'll see you later?"

Hinata nodded slowly. "Um- will you let me know when you reach home?" She looked down at her two feet. "I just want to make sure you get home safely."

Naruto patted her on the top of her head and ran his hand down her cheek, picking her head up. "I'll let you know,"

Hinata felt her heart racing. She didn't want him to leave her. In a long time, she had slept without dreams of him or it trying to hurt her. All because of him.

He made her feel- different.

Was she a bad person? Was she a bad person even after knowing what Naruto did?

The pits of her stomach tied into knots, and it was like her body was moving on its own. She gripped Naruto's shirt and went on her tiptoes so she could reach him. The two didn't stop staring into one another eyes, and Hinata moved her head closer to his.

"Hinata,"

She nearly jumped when she saw Kurenai and Asuma stepping off the elevator. Hinata quickly let go of Naruto's shirt and bowed. "Hello Kurenai, Asuma,"

"Hello Hinata, and- Asuma eyes widened and he let out a slight snicker. "So, this is the infamous Naruto you were talking about Kurenai," He grinned.

Kurenai blushed heavily at his comment.

"Infamous?" Hinata mumbled.

Naruto laughed. "I tried to make a good impression with her, Asuma-sensei,"

"Sensei?" Both Hinata and Kurenai said.

"Naruto, do you know Asuma?" Hinata said, looking up at the boy.

"Yeah, he's Shikamaru's second daddy," Naruto chuckled while approaching the man. He nudged him. "So, this is the woman you talk about every time we see you"

Asuma couldn't help but blush. "Ah, stop talking you little brat!" He put Naruto in a headlock and ruffled his head. Naruto grinned. "You know you had Kurenai worried. You should have brought Hinata home, even if you were tired." Asuma said in a more serious tone after releasing him.

"Yes, I know." Naruto rubbed the back of the head. "It won't happen again,"

Asuma placed his hands-on Naruto's shoulders. "I know you won't," He said, squeezing his shoulders.

"I'll text you when I get home, Hinata," Naruto said, glancing over his shoulder.

"Bye," She squeaked out.

"Good night, Asuma, Kurenai,"

"Asuma! Why would you tell him that?" Kurenai said once Naruto was out of an ear range.

"He's a good kid, Kurenai. Trust me. You have nothing to worry about." Asuma reassured her. "Naruto wouldn't hurt a fly."

Hinata looked down. Was Naruto so good at deceiving people? Did they not know the real him?

"I suppose, but still," Kurenai frowned. She glanced at Hinata who opened the door to the apartment. "I believe she has a crush on him," Kurenai whispered in Asuma's ear.

"Oh," Asuma chuckled. "Well, I assure you, you have nothing to worry about."

Kurenai felt uneasy.

"It's Hinata's first time, Kurenai. She's young and beautiful. Isn't this what you wanted?"

"Yes, I know, but I guess I wasn't prepared for this day."

Asuma wrapped his arms Kurenai and pulled in for a close hug and kissed her on her forehead. "She's in safe hands. Trust me,"

Kurenai wrapped her arms around him and inhaled his scent. "I trust you,"


"Hinata," Kurenai spoke softly, as she knocked on the girl's bedroom door.

~Hello Kitty Konnichiwa

Hinata opened the door and tilted her head. "Yes, Kurenai?" She moved to the side and allowed her in.

~Kitty wa minna no ninkimono

"Is there something going on between you and Naruto?" Kurenai questioned. "Last night, you two seem very close," She said, arching her eyebrow.

~Wanpaku ikiwaru ikorinbou mo

Hinata turned a bright red color. "Kurenai!" She whined. "It's so embarrassing to talk about,"

~Yasashii kitty to isshonara

"How? I'm a woman too." She crossed her arms. "Asuma says he's okay, but you know how much I worry about you and I just want to make sure he's good for you. How did you meet him?"

"Um, it was on the train... and I found out we had the same classes," Hinata said, looking away.

~Tsurarete yasashiku nacchauno

"He's good looking, but still! If he ever asks you to do something that makes you uncomfortable tell him no and call me and I'll pick you up right away."

Hinata nodded. "He's a good guy, Kurenai." She said, lowering her head. 'When he isn't murdering someone...' "And he's my first real friend. Please give him a try." Hinata pleaded.

"Nobody will ever be good enough for my Hinata, but like Asuma, I trust your words," She gave her a quick hug.

"Invite him over sometime instead of you going to his apartment, okay?" Kurenai suggested.

Hinata looked up and nodded. "I-if you don't mind."

"I trust you," She said, patting Hinata.

Hinata closed the door behind her and followed Kurenai to the kitchen who had taken out a bucket of chocolate ice-cream.

Hinata chewed on the bottom of her lip and played with her index finger. "I do like him, Kurenai," She admitted, timidly.

Kurenai glanced over shoulders and nodded. "I know."

"How can I win his heart?" Hinata mumbled. "I've never felt this way about anyone," She fidgets.

"Be yourself, Hinata," Kurenai leaned over the countertop. "Never change yourself for a man."

Hinata gazed into her eyes and nodded. "I- is it okay if I invite him over for dinner with us tomorrow night?"

"Ah, I forgot to tell you," Kurenai rubbed the back of her shoulder, "I'll be out of town."

"Where are you going?" Hinata asked.

Kurenai took a scoop out of the container and put it in a small pink bowl before giving it to Hinata.

"The end of the year school trip."

"School is already over? I didn't know!" Hinata exclaimed. "Time is passing us by,"

Kurenai closed her eyes as the cold ice-cream made her taste buds jumped with excitement. "I know. Time waits for nobody," She said leaning over the counter. "But go for it," She said, winking at the girl.

"Kurenai!" Hinata said, looking down at the bowl of ice-cream.

The older woman couldn't help but giggle. "Hinata, you're too cute for your good. But does this boy mean so much to you?" (Thanks for the correction Uzumaki Spiral!)

Hinata nodded slowly. "He does. He's my first real friend and I've experienced so many things because of him. And I met some people who are very friendly with me because of him." Hinata said, gazing at Kurenai.

Kurenai sighed. "I'm glad," She smiled warmly. "But are you sure you'll be fine here by yourself," Kurenai asked. "You know-

"I'll be fine," Hinata reassured her. "Enjoy your trip!"

"If you need someone to talk to, please call me or Asuma right away!"

"I will."


Hinata grabbed her phone from the dresser and sat at the edge of the bed. While talking to Kurenai, she wondered if Naruto had texted her.

Naruto: I'm home!

Hinata couldn't help but smile. Naruto was so adorable, and she wanted to squeeze him.

Hinata: I'm glad you made it safely.

Naruto: Thank you. Although it is a little lonely here.

Hinata read the text over. "I know how he feels." She sighed.

Hinata: I know how you feel, Naruto

Hinata: If it isn't much to ask... would you like to join me for dinner tomorrow night. I'll be cooking.

Hinata: It's okay if you don't want to. It's just that you always buy me ramen and I want to return the favor...

Naruto:!

Naruto: I'm going to get to try your cooking?

Naruto: Count me in!

Hinata held the phone to her face and she smiled, softly. There was a warm feeling that engulfed her whole body and if she could do a backflip, she would times three.

Hinata: I can't wait!

Naruto: Me neither.


Hinata walked down the aisle of the grocery store as she searched for something that would be suitable for Naruto. As always, she was in deep thoughts, that she didn't notice all the attention she was attracting.

She wore a loose shirt that had a picture of a lemon on it, and short loose yellow pants and white sneakers. Her hair was put in a messy ponytail, and she screamed "kawaii".

"Should I do curry or soba?" She muttered to herself. "Ah, Kurenai always say it was safe to do curry and rice." Hinata turned on heels and was walking towards the meat aisle when she bumped into Kiba.

"Hinata!" He said, surprisingly.

"Ah, hello Kiba," She bowed.

"I didn't know you lived in this area." He grinned.

Hinata nodded. "I live ten minutes away."

Kiba couldn't help but coo at the cutesy girl. His mother would love somebody like Hinata. She always complained about his older sister, Hana being wild, although the woman was a wild thing herself, and wanted a more docile child.

Hinata tilted her head to the side when Kiba didn't respond. "Ah, Kiba. Are you feeling okay?"

Kiba shook his head. "Sorry about that," He said rubbing the back of his head. "Hey Hinata, I know we don't hang out, but would you like to hang out with me sometime... maybe? I'm going to the mall tomorrow to find a present for my mom. Would you like to come?" Kiba said in a soft tone.

"It's your mother's birthday tomorrow?" Her eyes sparkled.

Kiba nodded. "It is."

Hinata smiled. "I would love to come with you."

Kiba was taken back, but he couldn't contain his excitement and he grinned, showing his canine teeth. "Thank you," He bowed. "Let's exchange phone numbers."

"It's XXX-XXX-XXXX" Hinata told him.

He added the number in his contacts and texted Hinata.

Kiba: It's me.

Hinata saved the contact in her phone and smiled. She had another contact to add to her phone and possibly another friend to add to the list. "What time would be good for you?" Kiba asked.

"Anytime is fine." Hinata said. "Just let me know and I'll meet you at the train station."

Kiba nodded his head like a wild animal. "Hai. I guess I'll see you later,"

"Hai!"

Kiba waved at Hinata before he left the store.

Hinata waved until Kiba was out of sight. "Tomorrow is his mother's birthday too," She turned her direction back to the meat. "I have to find the perfect meat for Naruto to consume," Hinata said with a look of determination.


The door opened slowly and Hinata gazed up at the young man. She had been preparing herself all night for this moment and she felt giggly.

"Hey Hinata," Naruto said.

"Hello, Naruto." She said opening the door all the way.

Naruto stepped into the apartment and the scent of curry enticed his nostrils. "Curry?"

Hinata nodded. "I should have probably asked you first," She mumbled. "But Kurenai said you can never go wrong with curry, but I suppose you may not like curry. I'm sorry!" She bowed. "I'll make you something else." She brushed past him and was about to enter the kitchen when Naruto pulled her by her arm towards him.

"Hinata, you overthink a lot, huh?" Naruto smiled. "I like curry too."

Hinata gazed into his eyes and the feeling she felt that night feel like it was overpowering her. She shook her head briefly and brought Naruto to the dining room.

"Can I sit next to you?" He asked.

"H-hai," Her cheeks turned red momentarily as she pulled out the chair. "I'll bring out your food."

"I can help."

"No, no. I can do it. Please sit." She said before disappearing in the kitchen.

Naruto sat in the chair and looked around briefly. "Hinata did you decorate the place?"

She came back out and placed a plate in front of him and another one in the empty seat beside him. "I did. How did you know?"

"It looks like something you would do. It looks nice."

"Thank you," Hinata replied while taking a seat next to him.

"Itadakimasu!" The two both said before tearing the chopsticks in half.

Hinata watched Naruto as he took this first bite and she waited for him to say something. He continued to eat the curry with rice and would occasionally glance at Hinata through the corner of his eyes. He felt the girl staring at him and he loved teasing her. She had barely touched her food as anxiousness filled her heart.

"Hinata, aren't you going to eat?" He asked, but there was a slight playfulness in his eyes.

She quickly looked down and ate the food slowly. "Maybe he doesn't like it."

Hinata nearly jumped when she felt someone playing with her hair. It was Naruto and he was tucking some of the strands behind her ear. "Hinata, you should be my chef. What do you say?" Naruto grinned.

Hinata's face flushed by the comment and she nodded. Naruto's eyes widened and his grin spread from ear to ear.

"Really? You would be my very own chef?"

"Yes, I would cook for you every day." She said as she continued to stare down at the curry chicken.

"Hinata, you're full of surprises," Naruto told her, "Every day you managed to surprise me and just when I think I know you." He said, sadly.

Hinata panic once noticing the sad look on his face. "Ah, Naruto. Please don't be sad," She grabbed his hands into hers. "What would you like to know about me?"

He shook his head. "I'm fine, Hinata. I like discovering things about you without you telling me." Naruto scooted closer to her. "Wouldn't you agree?" There was something about how his eyes glistened and Hinata felt nervous.

"I suppose." Her voice went quiet.

"Let's continue eating. I wouldn't want your hard work to go to waste," Naruto told her as he dug into the curry.

After a quiet dinner, Hinata invited him to sit on the couch with her.

"How are your classes?" He asked.

"They're okay. I have straight A's."

"It's because you're smart, Hinata." He rubbed her head.

She couldn't help but pout. "What about you? How did you do on the test Iruka gave us?"

Naruto leaned back and stared at the ceiling. "I flunked it."

Hinata's eyes widened. "Why? What happened?" She turned on her side and stared at him.

"I was distracted by a beautiful girl," He smirked.

"A beautiful girl?" She mumbled. "Who?"

"Do you want to know?" He glanced at her.

She looked down briefly and felt her heart shattered. "Yes,"

He sighed once more and continue to look at the ceiling. "You."

Hinata tilted her head to the side. "Me?"

"Yeah. Maybe I should get you a paper bag to wear so you wouldn't distract me anymore." He chuckled.

Hinata wanted to cover her face as she knew she was turning completely red. "It isn't his first time calling me beautiful, but it still makes me feel happy." She thought. "Am I really beautiful to you Naruto?"

"The most beautiful girl in the world." He said, staring into her big saucer-like eyes.

Hinata searched his eyes for any trace of doubt, but she couldn't detect it. He did truly believe she was beautiful. "And you're very handsome!" It took a lot of courage for her to say it, but she had to let him know.

"Ah, you're just saying that." He turned his body to face her.

"Why would I say such a thing just to say it?" She whispered. "You have pretty eyes and your hair is soft..." She looked down at the space between them.

"Really? They used to tease me about my eyes."

"Why?" Hinata said. "They're so pretty! It's like the blue sky and the river. Sometimes I feel like I can swim in them." She admitted.

There was a brief silence between the two young adults before Naruto broke it.

"You have a way with words, huh?" He chuckled. "Where is Kurenai?"

"She's on a trip to Suna with her class."

"Oh, it's the end of the year trip!" Naruto said. "Wait, school is already ending?"

Hinata nodded. "It's the same thing I said."

He whistled. "So, you're by yourself tonight?"

"Three days to be exact," She sighed.

"Are you going to manage?"

She chewed on the bottom of her lips because truth be told she wanted him to stay with her. To be with her so she wouldn't have any bad nightmares, but she was too timid to come out and say it.

"Yes, I can."

"I'll stay with you until you fall asleep for the night, okay?"

"Thank you."

He opened his arms and Hinata looked at him, confused. "Come here, silly." He grinned. "I'm going to protect you tonight."

Hinata blushed deeply, but she went into his arms and rested her head on his chest. The smell lingered around her and she felt pure bliss.

"Hinata, can I take you out to the movies tomorrow night?"

Hinata lifted her head and stared at Naruto, who was blushing, lightly. "Hai!"


"I hope I didn't make you wait!" Kiba said, walking up to Hinata.

"No, you didn't." She replied.

The two entered the train and sat next to one another.

Last night felt like a dream and she couldn't stop thinking about Naruto. He was strong but caring when he held her until she fell asleep, and he had such a way with words that it made her melt.

"Are you okay, Hinata?" Kiba asked.

"Oh, I'm fine," She reassured him. "Do you know what you're going to get your mother?"

"I'm not sure. Probably a few perfumes."

"Ah, perfumes are always nice. And maybe you can get her a bouquet." Hinata suggested.

"That sounds nice," Kiba said. "Thanks."

"You're welcome!"

The train ride was fairly short, and they made it safely to the mall.

"Do you usually buy perfume for your mother?" Kiba asked as the searched throughout the aisle, smelling the different types of perfume.

"Oh, not my mother, but my caregiver. I've been with her since I was eight." Hinata explained.

She pressed down on the perfume and smelled the fruity scent on the white card. "Oh, if you don't mind me asking... where's your mom?"

"I'm not sure," Hinata said as she continued to search the aisle. "The last time I saw her when I was five."

"Oh, um- what about this one," Kiba said picking up a diamond bottle. "It smells good." He said sniffing the top.

Hinata took a white card and handed it to him. "Sometimes it best to spray it on this first so when it dries you can get the actual scent." He sprayed the perfume on it and waited three seconds before smelling it.

"This smell nice!" He handed the card to her.

Hinata smelled the card and she smiled. "Ah, it does. I think your mom will like it."


"Ne, Naruto take the picture," Sakura said. She and Ino held up a peace sign and grinned, while Naruto stood in front of them as he smiled taking the picture.

"Let me see!" Sakura said as she tried to grab his phone.

"Ah, send them to me," Ino begged.

Naruto held the phone above Sakura's head and grinned. "I'll think about it."

Sakura crossed her arm and frowned. "I'm not going to let you ruin my day," She turned her back on him.

"My day was already ruined when you forced me to come here. Why couldn't you invite Lee or Sasuke."

"Because Lee is busy and I'm not talking to Sasuke anymore."

"What happened this time?" Ino asked.

"He's just been acting very weird lately! And he takes forever to respond to my messages."

"I mean why does it bother you. You have a boyfriend." Naruto grinned.

Sakura frowned deepened. "Shut up!"

"Let take another picture with that pouty face of yours." He said flipping to his front camera. As he was taking the picture, he noticed two familiar people in it. He quickly zoomed in the picture and the color left his face.

"Let's head-

"I'll be back," Naruto mumbled.

"Where are you going?" Ino called out after the blond, but he disappeared in the crowd. Ino sighed and she turned to Sakura who still had her arms crossed.

"What's the matter?" Ino said, slipping her arm between Sakura's own.

"I mean he's the one that wanted to break up with me and mess around with other girls! Now that I'm doing the same thing, it's a problem." The tears began to gather in her eyes. "He's so confusing at times."

"Ah, Sakura. I told you not to mess with him!" Ino said, hugging her friend. "It'll be okay. Ne, I have an idea." Ino said with a mischievous look.

"What?"

"Why don't we find you some sexy lingerie and "accidentally" send the pictures to his phone?"

Sakura's eyes widened. "Ino!"

"Oh, come on!" Ino replied. She placed her hand on her hip. "Let's show him what he's missing. I guarantee you he'll be jealous."

Sakura thought about it and then a slight smile graced her face. "Yeah, let's do that."

Ino giggled as she pulled Sakura to the lingerie store.


Hinata took a white card and handed it to him. "Sometimes it best to spray it on this first so when it dries you can get the actual scent." He sprayed the perfume on it and waited three seconds before smelling it.

"This smell nice!" He handed the card to her.

Hinata smelled the card and she smiled. "Ah, it does. I think your mom will like it."

The two continued to walk through the department store, and as Hinata was about to turn the corner she collided into somebody. She froze as the familiar smell seem to hold her hostage.

"Naruto!" She said happily.

"Oh, Hinata!" Naruto grinned as he looked down at the girl. "I didn't know you were going to be here!" He looked up and saw an irritated Kiba. "Kiba? What are you doing here?"

Kiba scratched the back of his head. "Well, Hinata is helping me pick out a gift for my mom."

Naruto grinned. "Ah, tell her I said Happy Birthday!"

"Yeah," Kiba mumbled. "We should get going to the flower store before they close, Hinata," Kiba said grabbing the girl by her hand.

"Ah, I'll see you tonight, Naruto," Hinata said looking back at him as Kiba pulled her to the cashier upfront.

Naruto smiled and waved slowly. "Yeah," He muttered under his breath.


The thought of his hand touching Hinata's made Naruto's skin crawl. Who the hell was Kiba to touch Hinata? He was sitting on the toilet in the mall's restroom, trying to calm down. Kiba had been pushing his luck lately and right now, he was walking on thin ice.

Kiba and Naruto had been friends for years, and he knew the boy always did things to pick on him; especially since he was shorter.

Naruto balled his fist and slammed on the close door. He didn't care who was there, but he was pissed off. He continued to pound on the restroom door until some holes were visibly noticeable and his fist turned red.

After a while, he took a deep breath. Hinata was his whether she knew it or not.


Hinata searched the crowd for Naruto who was supposed to meet her at the movie theater. She was anxious because it was her first time going to the movies with a friend. Naruto had invited her last night, and she was genuinely happy. One she would be with Naruto and two, he wouldn't be out there doing bad things.

She rocked back and forth on her heels and waited. It was her fault for coming an hour early! But she just couldn't help it. She was beyond happy.

"Hinata!" Somebody called out.

He didn't need to call out to her because she already knew that he was here and where he was.

"Naruto," She said happily as she turned on her right side. He grabbed her hand, and the two walked inside. "What are we going to see?"

"I wanted to see this new horror show," He pointed to the poster.

"Horror?" Hinata said unsure. "I'm not good with horror movies..." Her voice softened.

"Don't worry. I'll be here," He reassured her.

"Okay..."

They stood in the lobby and waited before the movie started. "Do you want anything? Popcorn? Candy?" Naruto asked.

Hinata shook her head. Food was the last thing on her mind as she thought about the movie.

"Come here," Naruto said holding out his hand.

"What happened to your hand, Naruto?" She asked worriedly when she saw how red and bruised, they were. "Did you get into a fight or something?" "Please don't tell me he killed somebody!"

He glanced over his knuckles like they were the most fascinating thing and grinned. "Ah, I'm fine. I just had an accident."

"H-how?" She gazed at him, her eyes watering.

He saw this and gave her a tight hug. "It's nothing to worry about, Hinata." She wrapped her arms around him and returned the hug. "But next time don't let Kiba touch you," He said suddenly. Hinata glanced up at him and he smiled down at her. "Okay?"

"I don't understand, Naruto."

His smile widened. "Because you're so cute and innocent." He stooped down to her level and stared into her eyes. They were almost lifeless, and he said with no emotion. "Do not let Kiba or any other man touch you." The life in his eyes returned and he smiled. "Okay?"

Hinata nodded slowly. His once blue eyes were dull like a faded marker and his voice sounded robotic.

"Our movie is starting. Let's go," He said guiding her to the double doors.

The two walked through the darkroom and made their way to an empty seat in the back. Hinata felt her heartbeat because horror movies weren't something she could stomach. The room began to fill up with some people, and the movie screen went black before the movie started.

A loud noise came on when she heard him say:

"Oh, maybe you should stop spending time watching Hello Kitty and watch more horror movies,"

Hinata turned her head slowly towards him, and her eyes widened. Naruto didn't budge. His eyes were fixated on the gigantic screen. Did she hear him correctly?

"Um, did you say something, Naruto?"

Naruto smiled, his eyes never leaving the screen. "Why don't you watch the movie, Hinata."

That voice! It sent a shiver down her spine, and she gulped silently.

Blood. Scream. Jump scares. Hinata held onto her seat and shivered uncontrollably. She hated these things, and here she was... with a murderer.

Her body relaxed, slightly, when Naruto intertwined his fingers with hers. "You shouldn't be afraid, Hinata. Movies like these are garbage," He said almost tauntingly. He then leaned closer and whisper in her ear, "It's not like it's real life," He chuckled as he gently placed his hand on her cheek and turn her head to face him. "Are you afraid?"

Hinata gazed into his blue eyes that were cold and distant like in the lobby. There was no sign of life and was afraid. Maybe she was wrong? Maybe Naruto would try to hurt her… or kill her.

She swallowed whatever she had in her throat and shook her head slowly. No… Naruto wouldn't hurt her. He always smiled when he was with her. Made her feel special and give her all his time and affection. Why would he go through all that trouble?

"I'm not afraid," She squeaked out. Hinata tightened the grip on his hand and stared into his eyes that went from distant to warmth. "I want to save you, Naruto."

"You're full of surprises, Hinata," He grinned.

He leaned over and kissed her on the cheek.

Hinata held her cheek and stared at Naruto, shockingly, who returned to watch the movie. She felt her legs buckle, and her heart skipped a beat. His lips felt soft on her cheeks and she was dumbfounded.

There was like a wave of emotion that swirled in her stomach, and she just wanted him for herself. Nobody could have him. She wrapped her arms around his arm and rested her head against his shoulder. Her eyes fixated on the movie screen, and for the first time, it didn't scare her.

She felt lucid.

The screams didn't terrify her.

The blood that splattered all over the world didn't frighten her.

Naruto was here.

Naruto was all she needed.

Review.

AN: I've had major writer's block! I have some chapters for Docile, A simple solution to love, Yakuza Girl and Strawberry kiss down, but I'm stuck on certain parts.

Thank you for being understanding and still reading my stories. Have a beautiful