A/N: Alright! I know its been some time since the last update, and I hope I still have a few fans out there. But good news! I took the time to draft several chapters, having completed this and the next. This chapter ended up being far to long so I've chopped it in half adding the rest in the following chapter. Curse my long windedness! So please accept my apology and please enjoy the is chapter.
The Husband
"This doesn't make any sense, why would dad do this?" Hanabi was baffled by the revelation that her sister was getting married, and to Uchiha Sasuke no less. She'd always thought when she received this news it would be filled with elation and planning the girly affair. And now to hear that it was little more than a business deal of both patriarchs design. It was disheartening, she could only guess at how crushing it was for her older sibling.
"He says it necessary for the company..."
"That's bullshit!" exclaimed the brash Hyuuga, none too shy with her personal feelings about the matter. "The business will do just fine without you becoming the trophy wife of some rich playboy."
Hinata listened to her sister's complaints, her natural instinct to defend the absent party latently kicking in.
"Sasuke—he isn't everything that the media says he is, Hanabi." the claim was met with little more than a scoff of disbelief, but she continued still, "I've known him all of my life. A-and even though we may not be close, I-I know he's not a horrible person."
"I've seen the way he is. Hell, I know some of the women he's toyed with personally." she spat, doing her best not to let her anger ruin her daily makeup routine, lest she end up looking like an irate clown at her upcoming meeting. " Refuse the arrangement. I'll talk to father. Have him reconsider—we'll rethink our business strategy and you wont have to—"
"Please, Hanabi. It's...okay." interrupted, the elder Hyuuga's voice rising a few decibels above its usual meekness. "Father will never change his mind. If I refuse, he-he'll only look to you. I wont let that happen...the responsibility is mine"
There was a brief moment of silence on the line, even the shuffling of clothing stopped. Hinata never showed it much, being in the background much her life, but she had more pride than her gentle nature let on. She was fiercely loyal to her family, more importantly their father, despite his treatment if her. On some level she respected her for the brave face she was putting forward.
"I don't know if this is brave or foolish Hinata. But I understand." finally she had conceded and Hinata could release a sigh of relief. Though she wasn't entirely convince, "Still, if that bastard so much as thinks about another woman when you're married, I'll make his life a living hell before I skin his ass, personally."
"Hanabi...please don't do that."
Sasuke rose that morning and went about his normal routine, enjoying his last few moments of solitude in his apartment before he left for work. He grabbed his briefcase and made for the door, his brow furrowing in curiosity as he was met with more resistance than normal when he opened it. A thick manilla envelope lay at his front door, naturally he picked it up and eyes it warily before opening it. Sasukes eyes widened slightly as he examined the unmistakable penmenship on the cover letter.
"Give your blushing bride my regards, little brother."
Another mysterious gift from his estranged brother. Sasuke was beginning to ponder why he saw fit to interfere in his affairs further. Maybe he was growing sentimental in his exile, that or just becoming bored. Turning his attention to the bulk of the parcel, his eyes widening even more as he read the embossed letterhead of not only Tomoe Capital, but that of Gentle Fist Investment. The realization hit him like a kick in the nuts. His eldest brother had gifted him his own marriage contract, or a draft at the very least.
He had half a mind to spend the rest of the day in his home pouring over the weighty document, but it was best to keep up appearances at the office. He had given his father enough to hold against him, this contact being the case and point. Though even on the ride into the office he fought the urge to skim the files for foul play.
"Ohayou Sasuke-kun. Happy Friday." greeted his amorous secretary, testing the unofficial decree of Casual Friday to its limits with her bold crimson low cut top and barely knee length black pencil skirt. "No messages today, and no unexpected visitors."
"Lets keep it that way, Karin. I have work to do." he responded flatly as he crossed the threshold of his office, only to be followed by her.
"You do however have some mail, a delivery really." she added, presenting a plain white envelope to him when he craned his head in her direction. "It was dropped off by a courier. No clue who it's from."
More mysterious packages. He considered making a snide remark about her surprising restraint when it came to opening his mail, but settled for a simple grunt of acknowledgment as he took the envelope from her.
Once left alone, he retrieved the marriage contract from his briefcase and began his dissection. Unsurprisingly enough, there was more legal jargon pertaining to himself and Hinata then there was regarding the corporate entities behind the contract. If such a thing was announced as a blatant partnership the SEC would be all over them like buzzards on a carcass. And sure enough they'd be just that if they had their way.
Sasuke continued his reading, making mental note of each instance of their betrothal and the subtle financial implications that followed. Though, he couldn't help but ponder why it was Hinata of all people they seemed to be throwing the entirety of Gentle Fist Investment's future on. Even if the idea was to mislead the policing agency off the contracts female party could easily be replaced by the true heiresses', Hanabi.
They had crossed paths at more than a handful of corporate functions, while both holding such things with low regard, her age made her more vocal about them. While she wasn't a wild child she still was inexperienced in holding her tongue, beating Sasuke himself to the front page of the gossip section on several occasions. Maybe their respective patriarchs feared the financial powerhouse such a union could create, or the ruin for that matter.
Moving past his musings he quickly approached the "In Perpetuity" clause. He half expected some phoned in mention of their marital vows, and he wasn't wrong necessarily, just surprised.
"Binded in matrimony, Uchiha Sasuke and Hyuuga Hinata are herein duty bound to preserve the sanctity of their marriage and the honor of their respective families by way of producing an heir or heiress…" Sasuke's jaw nearly dropped. He didn't know whether to be furious, or utterly embarrassed that such a thing was going to be legally enforced to some degree. The idea had to be of Hiashi's own design. The Hyuugas, so steeped in tradition saw fit to include something as medieval as a blood bond to secure their future. He'd take up the matter with the man personally, when the time was right of course. For now he continued reading,
"Said heir or heiress must be of the two families and produced within two years of the contracts signage and/or signage of legal documents legitimizing the aforementioned union. Breach of this agreement will result in action brought against the offending family by way of restitution, monetarily or otherwise."
The contract had been light on threats as a whole thus far, suppose he shouldn't have been surprised the threat was mostly implied to be in the Hyuugas favor. The heir would have a claim to his family fortune, and little to Hinata's, short of Hanabi dropping dead.
Sasuke pinched the bridge of his nose and released an audible sigh. He'd had enough of reading how his father and Hiashi had painstakingly planned his life for the next two years. Maybe his second delivery would be a departure.
Hastily he tore the flimsy envelope apart and dumped the contents on his desk. Two solitary tickets made the short trip, and upon further inspection brought a diminutive smirk to his face. It wasn't uncommon for clients to send gifts as way of thanks for a job well done, though they usually made themselves know, the ringside seats to a boxing exhibition we're appreciated all the same.
Perhaps he'd take Hiashi, make the not so subtle implication that he wanted to pummel the man for thinking he could ever make him, much less any Uchiha, his pawn. Sasuke idly toyed with the tickets just as an even more satisfying idea. If Hiashi planned to flaunt such an egregious contract and expect him to smile about it, he had another thing coming. Deft fingers moved swiftly in retrieving his cellphone and dialing a number.
"S-Sasuke? I-I can't really talk for long, I have a cla—"
"This won't take long, Hinata. I'd like to take you out tonight." his aloof attitude towards courtship never failed to surprise her, nevermind utterly fluster her.
"T-t-take me out? On a da-date?"
" Call it whatever you'd like. A client's given me tickets to a boxing exhibition this evening. I'd like for you to join me."
"Ano…I really shouldn't…"
"Live a little, Hinata. Your studies can wait. Besides, we should…get to know one another." Truth be told he only wanted to give Hiashi a taste of his own medicine. To flaunt his discarded daughter in public, draped on his arm. To use her for his own petty purposes. But that would make him no better. He furrowed his brow and pursed his lips when the silence lasted too long for comfort, "I'm trying, Hinata. To make this all…normal."
She blushed, and could only assume by the subdued sound of his voice he was involuntarily showing his own form of embarrassment, of vulnerability.
"Okay. J-just tell me when."
"I'll pick you up around 8."
"Alright. I really should go now Sasuke."
"Hn. I'll see you tonight then, Hinata."
She was the first to hang up, her lips twisting in a pout as she absently stared at the screen. Despite her better judgement she had agreed to the outing. She needed to focus on her classes and her thesis just like she always had, foregoing social outings for the company of her books. But he had a valid point. Neither of them could get back to their own versions of "normal" if they avoided one another like the plague.
Though, now it was all she could focus on. She was going on a date with Sasuke, her first date not only with him but with anyone! How could she possibly focus on the nuances of Tolman and Hull at a time like this? The opalescent eyed heiress sat through her lecture in a daze, finding her way home in the same state, her mind racing a mile a minute. Though, her mind seemed to zero in on one key question.
What am I going to wear?
The question irked her to no end. So much so that she reached out to the only person she could trust with such a sensitive subject.
"What's up sis? I just crushed my meetings and need a celebratory drink."
"I need your help with something. With Sa-Sasuke."
"What's the bastard done now?"
"I wish you wouldn't talk about him like that. He's…asked me out on a date."
"A date? W-where is he taking you?"
"He said it was a boxing exhibition."
"Tch. Typical macho bullshit. You'd think he'd have the decency to take you out for dinner, or a fancy show. Not some bloodsport."
"I just—I just need some help finding something to wear."
"Well...I suppose I can help. I'm sure he's got good seats so you'll probably want to not look frumpy. Something elegant, but not too flashy. You shouldn't show too much skin, we can't have Sasuke getting—"
"Just tell me what to wear!" all of her sisters fashion rationalization was only making her anxiety worse, so much so that it bubbled to the surface, manifesting as anger.
"Take it easy, Hinata! I'll send my stylist over to your place with a few options. Do you think you can handle your make-up yourself?"
"I'm not an invalid, Hanabi." she snapped, surprising even herself. So much so that she covered her mouth in shock, whispering her apologies.
"I get it. First adult date. With a millionaire no less. Ah, I remember my first time."
Now she was just teasing her, as if asking for help with the situation wasn't embarrassing enough. Before her younger sister could throw another snide barb her way, Hinata hung up and began her nervous ritual of pacing back and forth in her bedroom. Occasionally stopping to stare at her reflection in her full length mirror.
She didn't think she was unattractive by most societal standards, she'd overcome that in her late teens when she made peace with the…proportions puberty saw fit to "gift" her with. Though, that didn't stop her from doubting herself occasionally, especially when it came to fancy outings.
She was a Hyuuga, and not just any. She was the eldest daughter to Hyuuga Hiashi, and heiress or not, nothing but the best was expected of her. She balled her fists and stiffened her back before she approached the mirror. Carefully she ran a hand through the length of her black-blue hair and released a held breath, "You can do this."
And did it she did, all in preparation for her date. She showered, untangled her hair, and did her makeup, she even shaved her legs. Albeit done bashfully, it wasn't that she expected anything lewd or lascivious happening, she anticipated her sisters stylist would send a dress more or less not her style.
She wasn't wrong either. Even with the temperature dropping each day and winter approaching quickly, all of the dresses were less than appropriate. In the end she chose a smart, modern spaghetti strap dress cut just below the knee. Looking herself over in the mirror several times she questioned whether or not it wasn't too revealing. Compared to the others, this one might as well have been a burlap sack when it came to modesty, but still. Hinata couldn't help but blush at the way it accentuated her chest, seemingly threatening to set itself free under the slightest provocation. When her phone began to ring and her dates name popped up on the screen her heart jumped into her throat. In her panic, she neglected to answer the call as she frantically searched for something to cover her exposed skin, opting for a thick black peacoat before bolting for the door, bag in hand and phone between her teeth as she struggled to get into her heels.
She emerged from her domicile with such haste that she collided with the immovable object that was Sasukes chest, nearly falling backwards had it not been for him steadying her by the shoulders. "Hinata."
So much for being the elegant Hyuuga. She already wanted to call the whole thing off she was so embarrassed. "S-s-sorry Sasuke! I-I-I—"
He waved off her flustered apology, casually adjusting his blazer and taking a step back to look her head to toe, "You look nice."
So casual. So calm and collected. It was as if he hadn't a concern in the world. As if them being together front and center of the public eye for the first time was no big deal. She both hated and envied him for it.
Still unable to properly work her vocal cords again, she smiled and bowed as a show of thanks, to which Sasuke quirked an eyebrow. He turned his back to her and offered her his arm. Shakily she grabbed it, still somewhat surprised by his etiquette. For someone who was none too shy about his disdain for her family, he seemed to respect her enough to be a gentleman. Her dark haired date led her to his obsidian chariot, even opening her door before joining in the driver seat. So far so good.
"I appreciate you joining me this evening. I'm sure you were busy."
"I-It's alright, I can always study tomorrow. Thank you for inviting me, Sasuke."
"Relax Hinata. You don't need to be do formal. We're…peers."
That was a bit of a shock. Not only was he attempting to make small talk, he even tried to make himself seem less intimidating. Despite the good intentions of his words, they did little to ease his anxiety. It only made her more aware of how keen he was to her body language.
"Ano…do you like boxing?" she kicked herself as the words passed her painted lips. Needless to say her small talk skills needed some work.
"Aa. Most think of it as a violent bloodsport. In actuality it's as mental as it is physical, perhaps even more so."
"Do you attend a lot of these things?"
"Not as many as I'd like to. Most clients prefer cornering me at a dining table to garner good will. But tonight isn't about business. It's our first date."
As if she needed reminding. She caught him watching her from the corner of his eye, and a sly smirk plastered on his face. "I-I suppose I should thank you. F-for getting me out of the house."
His smug smirk remained, "The night is just starting, Hinata. I hope Hiashi doesn't have to shackled by a curfew."
"Of course not! I'm an a-adult." she countered, perhaps too aggressively judging by the small chuckle he released. Was he teasing her?
"Your father always was protective of you. I hope I live up to his standards."
"You don't need to c-coddle me, Sasuke."
"Good, because we're here."
"W-what?"
Hinata had been so focused on deflecting his somewhat childish teasing, that she hadn't noticed they'd arrived at their destination. Her eyes widened and heart began to beat madly at the sight of swarming paparazzi and flashing lights. She turned to Sasuke, her look instantly conveying her level of anxiety.
"I like this part as much as you do." he defended, nonchalantly running his free hand through his dark hair. "Relax and stay close to me. It'll be relatively quick and painless."
Before she could protest with more of her concerns, he was bounding out of the car and opening her door. Instantly she was blinded by the lights, nearly stumbling into Sasuke as he pulled her from the vehicle. She struggled to get her footing until Sasuke wrapped his arm around her waist and held her close as he led her past the throngs of cameras.
""Sasuke! Are you and Hinata an item!?"
"How long have you two been dating!?"
"Do your families approve!?
"Hinata! Who are you wearing this evening!?"
The opal eyed heiress was mortified, so much so that she clung to Sasuke so tightly he had to quietly tell her to relax, lest she snap one of his ribs. Eventually they escaped the paparazzi and reached the sprawling arena, only then did her grip lessen, but Sasukes did not. She quickly became keenly aware of his fingers pressed against the fine fabric on her hip and the evergreen scent that permeated his person. For how anxious she had been before, the smell seemed to offer a small calming effect.
Sasuke led her to their seats, rather close to the ring and some unsightly stains that made her second guess the date once again. He noticed her apprehension when he reached to take her coat, "Don't worry, no blood or sweat should reach us at this distance."
"B-but my dress…it's um t-too revealing."
"It's a nice dress, worn by a beautiful woman. You don't need to hide, Hinata." There was something about his voices silky cadence, and the intensity of his black pools that eroded what little resolve she mustered in protest. Her lips parted to voice her protest again, but no words escaped and he was already sliding the thick wool from her shoulders and into his arm. Instinctually she crossed her arms over her chest, shivering slightly at the sensation. Sasuke took a measured step towards her, her flushed face growing more so when he tucked a few stray strands of blue-black hair behind her ear. "Beautiful."
His name passed her lips as little more than a whisper, her vocal cords unable to produce much else in her entrancement.
"Ah Sasuke-kun, so glad you could make it." The sound of that slimy voice invaded his ears and he couldn't help but scowl. He pulled away from Hinata and turned to face the new arrival and his retinue, "I feared you would not accept my gift, I know how you enjoy these little exhibitions."
"And I know how you enjoy deceiving people, Orochimaru. I can only assume that is why you left your name off this "gift"." he retorted none to politely. Even going as far as to jam his hands in his pockets when the pale man offered his own in greeting.
"No deceit, just a minor oversight I assure you." he cooed, flashing a thin smile. "But where are my manners, pleasure to make your acquaintance, Hinata-san. The tales of your beauty are sorely lacking."
Sasuke bit the inside of his lip to restrain and outright growl when the shady man bowed lowly. Though, his attention quickly turned to his entourage, four suited men of varying sizes and one similarly dressed redhead of short stature. She is what caught his eye.
"Y-you're too kind. It's a pleasure to meet a business associate of Sasukes." she offered meekly, moving to bend in return had Sasuke not stopped her with a firm hand on her shoulder.
"I had no idea Hiashi-sama was entrusting you with such a high profile prospect, much less a staunch competitor. Perhaps we can discuss—"
"Unlikely, Orochimaru. We aren't here on business."
"Ah, I see. I suppose Hanabi-san would be more suited for something like that." The snakes words were not without bite, and both parties felt the sting. Sasuke could feel Hinata tense up at his side at the sly comment at her expense. He was about a hair away from taking the mans neck in his hands and squeezing an apology out of him if not life itself. "Regardless let's enjoy the match, shall we?'
"Will your entourage be joining us too?" Sasuke asked perhaps too aggressively judging from the way they stiffened as a reflex.
"Merely my security detail, you can never be too safe these days." he gestured behind him, naming them all one by one, "Sakon, his brother Ukon, Kidoumaru, Jirobo, and Tayuya."
"Hn." Sasuke maintained his composure as they all attempted to size him up, even the redhead who saw fit to smirk boldly. They weren't just security, they were his personal spies. Like the rest, this Tayuya was one of Orochimarus creatures, and she had gotten to him. Uchiha's didn't believe in coincidence, and there wasn't a doubt in his mind that he was being set up. For what exactly, he hadn't the foggiest idea.
Sasuke made sure to put himself between Hinata and their unwanted guest lest he try to solicit her "business" in any manner again. His "security" wisely sat behind them, occasionally snickering and bickering as the ring prep was finalized.
Hinata could feel the tension in the air, somewhat relieved it wasn't due to awkward interactions between herself and her date, but it wasn't much better. As the boxers made their way to the ring she sparsely made out Orochimaru attempt to solicit some sort of business to Sasuke. She wasn't surprised when her date waved off the attempt none too cordially at that. Rightfully so, she had only met the man moments ago, but he had a sleazy aura about him that would make a venomous viper seem like a rabbit.
"Perhaps I can interest you in a small wager, Hinata-san. Sasuke-kun isn't much a sport tonight it seems." Called Orochimaru, drawing her attention. "Pick your man, if they win I will graciously offer my consulting services at no expense. If my man wins, perhaps you can facilya meeting with your father for me."
"I-I really couldn't…"
"Maybe your sister then?"
"Ano…"
"Take your bets somewhere else Orochimaru." spat the Uchiha, his patience for the man's antics wearing thin. Hinata was not unaware of this fact. Sensing me may actually fly off the handle at any moment, she placed her hand on Sasukes clenched one and addressed their mutual misanthrope.
"I'm sorry, Orochimaru-sama. I'm not much of a gambler, nor am I one to make promises for the family business." her voice was measured, even somewhat stern in her refusal. This alone earned her a surprised look from Sasuke. He had seen it in flashes, the dormant ability to not be the shy girl who people could walk all over. He'd be remiss if he said such a display, to Orochimaru no less, didn't elicit certain feelings for Hinata. If only for the moment.
"Of course, my manners tend to take the backseat when I see a business opportunity." his apology was half-hearted at best, judging from how his lips twisted in dismay. He retrieved a cellphone from his suit pocket and answered, "Please excuse me."
Both Hinata and Sasuke breathed a sigh of relief for the reprieve. As she pulled her hand back Sasuke took it in his own and pulled her closer as the crowd began to cheer at the matches opening bell. "Well done, Hinata." he whispered in her ear.
He could feel the heat coming off her cheeks in waves. She had the ability to be strong at times, but she was still the timid girl who blushed at the slightest touch. "I…I don't like that man. He gives me a bad feeling."
"Hn. With intuition like that you'd be a natural at my job." his lips curled slightly at her response. "I can teach you, if you'd like."
"D-Don't tease me! Let's just enjoy the match." she retorted hastily after catching his telltale smirk.
She tried pulling her hand from his, but to no avail. He simply continued to smirk and point at the massive monitor hanging above the ring. To her shock and horror, she saw herself and Sasuke being prominently displayed during the brief intermission.
The heiress panicked, her mind screaming for her to run and hide. Unfortunately for her she could only do one of those things. Choosing to bury her face in Sasuke's shoulder.
"Relax Hinata."
"I am relaxed!" she mumbled into his lapel, peeking to see if they were still being displayed.
"Then show them."
Easier said than done. It all came so easily for him. He was aloof about anything and everything, completely unbothered by those around him. All of the priss, pomp, and bluster his station afforded him, meant nothing to him. He knew who he was and didn't care if they approved or not.
Hinata could feel his free arm wrap around her shoulder and gently nudge her up, slowly but surly she rose, cheeks still reddened by embarrassment, a shaky smile on her face. A small cheer rang out from the crowd, nearly sending her seeking shelter in Sasuke's shoulder again. Whether she knew it or not, the Hyuugas were well loved, markedly more so than his own family. You could blame it on his lack of interest in public perception, or the media juggernaut Hanabi had created through her clever usage of social media.
When the camera's finally moved on to other prominent spectators, she breathed a sigh of relief and put some distance between herself and Sasuke. When the opening bell of the next round rang out she snuck a peek at her date, smirk still intact, he nodded lightly in approval.
Their attentions finally returned to the exhibition before them, Hinata occasionally tapping him on the shoulder to help explain certain nuances the two experienced fighters exhibited. He had to stifle a chuckle when she referred to the two fighters clinching as hugging.
Unbeknownst to Sasuke, as his attentions were fixated on the masterful display in the ring, someone behind Hinata placed a hand on her shoulder. Before she could turn and address the mystery appendage she felt lip just barely brush against the shell of her ear.
"Eye's front, hime. What I have to say is for you only." the voice was low and demanding, but still somewhat feminine. From the corner of her eye she could see red tendrils of hair—it was the bodyguard Orochimaru had identified as Tayuya. "You and the Uchiha make quite the cute couple. So cute I may vomit a rainbow. And that dress, very...enticing. Do you plan on letting him fuck you in it tonight?"
Hinata was too shocked at the crude rudeness of the comment to react, her body's natural reaction to flush didn't even kick in. After the woman released her shoulder she still sat frozen, her hands white knuckling her clutch. Sasuke craned his head in her direction, practically sensing the uneasiness radiating off of her skin.
"Hinata, is something wrong?" her cheeks had seemingly lost much of their color and her eyes were distant. When she didn't answer he reached for her hand, shocked by the way she flinched at the slightest touch. "Hina—"
"I-I need some a-air." she interjected, quickly rising in her seat and making for the exit, neglecting to even take her coat. Sasuke watched in a brief stupor as she made for the exit. He was hot on her heels with her belongings, catching a smug smirk from Tayuya. No doubt the woman had some hand in his dates distress. He released a growl of frustration as he followed close behind Hinata as a surprising clip. He'd never seen someone move so fast in heels before.
Once they had finally reached fresh air she stop in her tracks, quickly wrapping her arms around herself for warmth. Sasuke wasn't far behind, draping her peacoat over her shoulders before stepping in front of her to address the situation. "What's going on Hinata?"
"It's n-nothing." She replied, her voice shaky and eyes downcast to avoid his scrutiny. It was a lie. False truths were like a second language to him. But he could see he wouldn't get anywhere with her if he pressed her for the truth.
"Lets go." Sasuke all but ordered as the valet pulled his car around. She stood there for sometime, watching as he opened the passenger side door for her and waited. Eventually she obliged him and seated herself in the plush leather.
"Leaving so soon, Sasuke-kun?" sounded a voice from behind him as he shut her door. His briefly forgotten anger returned and he didn't bother masking it. He faced the man with narrowed eyes and a clenched jaw. "I suppose it was ill advised to have a lady sit through such a brutish display."
"Aa. That explains your departure as well I suppose." he shot back, advancing on the man like a predator poised to strike.
Orochimaru chuckled at the barb, seemingly disinterested with the young man's aggressive demeanor. "My my, you're quite protective of the Hyuuga. And here I thought your family only cared for their own."
"My personal affairs are none of your concern. Nor are my family's. You'd do well to remember that." Sasuke left the man with that veiled threat before joining Hinata and driving off—or peeling out more precisely.
The heiress had mostly composed herself, but now Sasukes driving was concerning her. She'd experienced his penchant for driving rather quickly when agitated, but this was considerably more aggressive, bordering on reckless as he weaved around more law abiding motorists.
"Sasuke, slow do—"
"What did she say?" he questioned roughly, his voice momentarily betraying him.
"W-what? Why would she…" she feigned innocently. Had he himself not been the very reason for her sudden departure, he would have believed her well enough. But he couldn't tell her, not now. Perhaps not ever.
"Orochimaru is a shadow broker, straddling the line of legal and illicit business dealings." he began darkly, his voice dripping with venom at the mere mention of the man's name. "That woman…Tayuya, is one of his spy's no doubt. Meant to disrupt my family business, and our evening as well."
"But why?"
Because I fucked up. He wanted nothing more than to utter those words, and spare her any further indignation. But he could not. "He wants to get to me, anyway he can to blackmail me. Through anyone he can."
Hinata sat there in silence, internalizing all that he dared to tell her. Their world's were already colliding, his own lurking just out of reach, threatening to bring ruin down on them before either had even uttered an "I do".
"Whatever crude thing she may have said…you can't let it get to you. Get to us."
Had he not been so deathly serious she may have blushed at his nonchalant recognition of their impending bond.
"Okay. I-I understand." her voice rose just about it's usual meek timbre to reach his ears over the rumbling engine. She watched him, eyes glued to the road while his mind roiled. He may not show it, but she knew by now that his thoughts never rested. Her father had always referred to the Uchiha brothers genius as both gift and curse. Bringing as much fortune as misfortune.
When her gaze averted to the world whizzing by them she realized that they were on a highway leaving the city limits. "Where are we going?"
"Driving helps me clear my head." he responded plainly, receiving a confused look from the woman at his side. "I noticed you don't drive. Why's that?"
"It's too stressful for me." she answered honestly.
"Hn. With the right man at the wheel, and the right destination, stress can be left in the rearview."
"So it's freeing for you?" she wondered aloud, receiving and small nod in affirmation. "I suppose…but where are you taking me?"
He could hear the concern in her voice, even if it was ever so slight. "Someplace we can talk. You don't have to worry. I have no intentions of doing anything untoward."
"I-I don't…I never t-thought that." she defended, hoping he wouldn't see her blush in the darkness of the car as they pulled off of paved roads and down a dirt path. They winded along the road at a steep incline before finally pulling the car up to a hidden ridge overlooking the city below. Without a word he exited the vehicle, crossing past the headlights before opening her door, hand held out in offering.
"Come on."
She hesitated slightly, still unsure of his so called innocuous intentions. Eventually she did take his hand, allowing herself to be led to the hood of the car where they sat. And there they sat in silence for some time, both enthralled by the distant lights of the city twinkling below, some springing to life while others extinguished.
"My brother and I found this place. Years ago when he started teaching me to drive." he began, his words directed at her but spoken as if to the very night itself. "I lost control of his car, nearly going over the edge when I came around a blind corner."
"That's why I don't drive. A-anything can happen."
"True. Sometimes good things as well." Sasuke scoffed slightly at the memory, turning his head to address the woman at his side for directly. The moonlight illuminated her black clad silhouette giving it an otherworldly glow, "Maybe I'll change your mind one day."
"You don't…you don't have to burden yourself with me. Not because we're—" her words hitched in her throat when she felt his slightly callous hand deftly move through the darkness and caress her cheek.
"To be married." he finished, gently tracing the underside of her painted lips. He wanted nothing more than to taste them for the first time, if only just to sate his curiosity. He leaned in, unable to contain unlocking the mystery of her lips. But he could feel her quivering under his touch. Quickly he pulled away before he did anything foolish enough to betray what little trust she had afforded him.
"Sorry." he muttered, rising from his seat and jamming his hands in his pockets. Silently he cursed himself before deeply breathing in the nights crisp air. "Its late. I should get you home."
The heiress was still stunned by has advances. While he hadn't technically done anything uncouth or perverse, she now knew he wanted to. He wanted her. She had brushed off his compliments earlier in the evening as a gentlemanly gesture, truly only meant for the people who no doubt had their eyes on them. But now they were alone, no cameras to smile for, no hands to shake, no need to fake anything for anyone—just each other.
As he moved to open the passenger side door, Hinata bit her lip, struggling to regain autonomy before it was too late. Her hands knotted in her lap just as he crossed in front of her, "Wait, Sasuke."
Her voice reached home just as he laid his hand on the door handle. He craned his head to look her full in the face, her milky white eyes gleaming in the moonlight. Sadness, confusion, uncertainty, all conflicting ranges of emotions flashing instantaneously in her orbs. Did she want to berate him? Rebuke him for not only being so forward, but also betraying her trust? She was a mystery, the likes of which he could not hedge his bets against to minimize his loss. He didn't know her, and it was killing him that he could do nothing but act, all the while wondering what she wanted of him.
"We...don't have to leave." the sweetness of her voice went against everything he expected—everything he deserved for the way he'd spoiled their evening. "It's peaceful here. I don't mind staying a bit longer."
Who was this woman? Who was Hyuuga Hinata? For a woman who had no interest in him whatsoever, and only tolerated his presence, she had the patience of a saint, and the forgiveness of five.
The dark haired man returned to his place beside the ethereal woman. They sat there together, neither dating to utter a word, only the distant sounds of the midnight metropolis and surrounding nature filling the void.
It was her turn to examine him. She watched him from the corner of her eye, noting his actions that evening and body language. No matter how well he composed himself even his demeanor showed cracks, especially now. His hands remained in his pockets, a tiny wrinkle that indicated his apprehensiveness. He was anxious, and his actions earlier supported that thought. He seemed to want to rush through this awkward phase in their budding relationship. It was as if he was seeking to return to some sense of normalcy. His methods however, worked counter to his goal.
A heavy gust of wind whipped around them, prompting Hinata to unconsciously slide closer to her subject of study. Their eyes locked momentarily locked before both averted their gaze. The awkward tension was growing to unbearable levels for Hinata.
Her eyes rose to his chiseled jaw, tracing the defined lines all the way up to his half obscured eyes. She wanted nothing more than to capture this moment, it was the first time she'd ever seen him somewhat vulnerable. "Sasuke?"
He didn't bother grunting to signify that she'd gained his attention, merely craning his head in her direction. For a brief moment she wanted to back down again. She wanted to clam up like she had when he'd driven her home from his parents house. She'd wanted to say so many things that day, wanted to truly let him know that she had a voice in this…whatever you could call it.
"I know this isn't…the ideal situation for either of us." the firm even tone of her voice made him focus all the more on what she had to say. Again she showed him her capacity to be resolute and stern. "It's all happening so fast but, we don't have to. We can work together, slowly."
Though he was slightly taken aback, it was the first time she voiced her own displeasure with the arrangement, rather than placing her duty to her family above herself. To an extent it hurt more than having her overtly rebuff his advances. But she was right. What else could he do but submit to the unknown like she had, and work with her, rather than try and head it off at ever turn alone?
"I'm sorry, I-I just feel—"
"No." he cut her off, his voice as light as the nights breeze. Her face flickered from sadness to confusion and a hint of anger in an instant, but it all disappeared once he continued, "You've done nothing wrong. I'm the one who should be sorry. For my idiotic actions, for not taking your own feelings into account."
His honesty shocked her, not as his apology but it still left her awestruck. He was a proud man, his stubbornness only matched by his childhood compatriots. To hear him admit fault and submit to her concession, her made her swell with a sense of pride she'd never known before. Maybe she could conquer this marriage thing after all. Maybe she didn't have to be his silent partner, seen and never heard. Maybe she was a match for Uchiha Sasuke.
Sasuke left her side abruptly, leading her to believe quite the opposite, but he soon returned from the backseat of his car with a large manilla envelope, "I agree with you, we do need to work together. This will be a good start."
"What is it?" she questioned, gingerly accepting the package and inspecting it.
"It's a contract. Our marriage contract, or a draft at least." he explained, spotting the light rouge tinge of her cheeks in the moonlight. He released a small chuckle at the sight, "Some light reading before bed. Come on, let's get you home."
The drive back to civilization was largely quiet, neither party wanting to ruin the amicable conclusion tot he evening with idle banter or unnecessary thoughts. Soon enough they arrived, Sasuke continuing his gentlemanly duties of open her car door and even leading her to her front door.
"Thank you for the lovely evening, Sasuke. I really enjoyed it." Sasuke had to stifle a scoff at her nicety. The evening had gone down hill from the very beginning and they both knew it.
"It was my pleasure, Hinata. We'll do it again sometime. Maybe just another drive next time." his off the cuff remark was enough to bring a smile to her face as she opened her door.
Sasuke turned to leave, retuning his hands to their rightful place in his pockets. Before he could make one step down her stairs, he felt her grab his sleeve. Slowly he turned around and faced her. She closed the short distance between them and leaned in, her fingers quivering as she gingerly touched his cheek, planting a feather light kiss on it.
"G-goodnight, Sasuke." she all but whispered, quickly scampering off before he could reply, physically or otherwise.
Sasuke stood there momentarily, his mind trying to process it all as if it were advanced econometrics. Regardless, he found himself smirking all the way to his vehicle. "I'll figure you out one day, Hyuuga Hinata."
Well that's all folks! Things are starting to heat up for our two would be lovebirds. Rocky start but that's to be expected, and I can say for sure it won't be the last we see it either Orochimaru or Tayuya. For those who don't know I've got a fairly large crush on the redhead, her being my favorite noncanon pairing for Sasuke. So you can expect her to meddle even further in Sasuke and Hinata's relationship. No worries however, this is 100% a Sasu/Hina tale. The next chapter is in its final stages and will be in your hands in no time! So bare with me as I polish it up before releasing it. After all, the world is closing in around our couple, it's only a matter of time before their secret is out!
Next Chapter: The Wife
Until next time! Sayonara!
