Despite the turbulent nature of their relationship, Neji was more than familiar with most of Hinata's tics and mannerisms. He prided himself in the great perception of his all-seeing gaze and yet he failed to realize that it was a two-way inspection.

"The one who is suffering is you."

When had her observation gone so far, he was loath to admit he did not know.

Hinata had always held a fondness for her blood— for family. Be it her unwilling Hyūga relatives or the family she chose, Team Kurenai and few others. She called him of all people brother. Not because she viewed him as a sibling, that place was reserved solely for Hyūga Hanabi; she called him brother out of her need to protect. By addressing him as such, she announced to the world that she viewed him— her retainer— as an equal.

But they were no such thing.

After reading Hizashi's letter night after night, he could finally look back without resentment clouding his view. There was no mark seared on Hinata's forehead but tradition caged her just as much. She loved her sister too much to snatch back her birthright and Hiashi loved his daughter too much to sideline her permanently with the seal. The mockery he would hear in Hinata's voice evaporated along with his hatred and all that was left was the image of a lingering fondness in her gaze.

Neji could admit his mistake if only to himself. Hinata was not at fault. He would continue seeing the caste system of the clan as the injustice it is, but she would not pay for it.

In spite of this revelation, years of hatred could not be erased in mere weeks. He did not attempt to talk with her, limiting himself to civil greetings when they crossed paths. Hinata herself made no move to approach either. If she were able to look at him again, he wondered if he would see the same kindness he remembered

Neji's musings were answered when he woke up after the failed Sasuke retrieval mission. Eyes pale as his and glassy with relief were the first to greet him with a soothing murmur he was unable to make out. Medication like the one he was given was not unheard of to produce hallucinogenic effects, Tenten said when he ventured to ask.

"Maybe the universe is trying to tell you something," she suggested half-jokingly as she left the room.

Lee patted his shoulder before following her out. "Destiny is not set in stone, but it wouldn't hurt to mend familial bonds if you're willing."

Contrary to popular belief, he gave their situation much thought, resolving to never bother her again. Obviously she wouldn't be interested in rekindling a childhood friendship, it was the best option. Having a run-in with his fragile mortality may have had something to do with his sudden reconsideration on the subject.

They were both trying to change for the better. She tried reaching out many times in the past and he rejected those attempts. If he extended his hand this time, would she take it?

When Neji was finally discharged from the hospital his mind was still slightly addled by the medicine. Common sense was out the window and he found himself standing outside Hinata's room without the proper words in mind.

The screen door slowly slid open and Hinata blinked a couple of times as if processing his presence. There was not a trace of hostility in gaze. Unconsciously, her hand slowly inched towards her chest and he took a step back.

Fear, he could work with. Eventually she would realize he no longer posed a threat to her.

"Tomorrow, first thing in the morning," he announced, "we will train. If there is a problem with the arrangement you may bring it up with the council."

Neji knew her well. He could almost see the gears turning in her mind but at the end of the day, he was certain that she would not dare bring the matter up to the council and consequently unveil his lie. She wouldn't give them yet another reason to put her down.