A/N: Hey guys I'm back, sorry for the delay. But it's a long one so there is that. I'm not too proud to say I had a bit of writer's block on this one. There's so damn much that happens! Not much of a theater buff as my girlfriend but if I had to guess this is the culmination of the story's second act. A real turning point in this tale, lots of setups. So I'm gonna stop talking and let you start reading.


Damage Control

Hinata tossed in her sleep, she was dreaming about rain. The earthy, refreshing scent filling her senses as the patter of droplets serenaded her with their song. The heiress watched the rain beat lightly against the floor to ceiling windows of the penthouse, clad in one of Sasukes lengthy dress shirts that barely covered her thighs. She could sense him behind her, the phantom sensation of his arms wrapping her in their love. She smiled at the calmness of it all, rolling once again to touch the one thing that could make it even better. When she connected with nothing other than a cool pillow, her eyes fluttering open at the realization, she was alone.

The heiress sat up and rubbed her eyes in the darkness of the room, only the light that spilled from the door of the adjoining bathroom offering light. She could make out the sound of running water as she wobbled to her feet. Her thighs and calves were taut and tired, her other bits sticky and sore from her earlier activities. Suddenly noticing her state of undress she converted the bed sheet into a makeshift dress before venturing towards the sound.

She pushed through the door and was instantly assaulted by steam, though even with her vision slightly obstructed she could still make out the silhouette. A light blush rising to her cheeks as she stared for longer than she probably should have. She hadn't gotten as good of a look before, but he had a cute butt.

Feeling the eyes burning a hole in his back, Sasuke peered over his shoulder at his little voyeur. Wordlessly he gestured for her to join him, her body instinctually doing as he commanded as she dropped her cotton sheet-drees and approached. She slid the glass door to the spacious shower open and stepped in, releasing a shriek at the near scolding temperature of the water. For a man who typically ran cold he took awfully hot showers apparently.

"Too hot?" he teased, chuckling at the puffed up pout she shot him in turn. In the end he lowered the temperature to something more tepid for his lover, effectively earning enough trust for her to safely join him.

Hinata released a sigh as the warm water flowed over body, running her hands through the many tangles of her wild hair. She closed her eyes and smiled as she felt his strong arms circle her waist, pulling her flush against him. She cherished the moment, because for the moment time seemed to move slow for them. For once they weren't being rushed down the aisle, or forced into elaborate corporate schemes. They were able to just be alone together and enjoy each other's company. That's all they really wanted.

"How are you feeling?" he asked coolly.

"Fine." She answered meekly, peering over shoulder at him. His slick hair obscuring one of his eyes, but still seeing right through her false truth, "Ano… just a little s-sore."

"Hn. I can be more gentle, if you'd like." Hinata could already feel his unrestrained hardness pressing against her rear. Her mind was willing, but the throb in her nethers told her it was in her best interest to decline his tempting offer. It wasn't that he was too rough, or that losing of her maidenhood made her think twice, she feared her appetite for him maybe uncontrollable the second time around.

Shyly she shook her head and reached for the shower gel from it's platform. As she squeezed she emerald goo into her hands, Sasukes own covered hers, lathering it up and laving the suds over her shoulders tenderly.

"Y-you don't have to…"

"I want to." He returned, his hands slowly roaming over the entirety of her body. The small protest she mounted quickly being stamped out as his fingers swept over the tops of her nipples. She could feel his smirk against her neck as he rested his head on her shoulders, his hands traveling further and further down her body.

"Sasuke-kun…" she whimpered as he approached her core, but swiftly pivoting to wash the supple skin of her inner thighs instead.

"Another time, Hinata." He made sure his actions would not misconstrue his words. While his body wanted nothing more than to delve into pleasures of the flesh with her, he knew better than to push her so quickly.

Soon his fingers left her skin and allowed her to rinse away the suds. When she returned to the shower gel to reciprocate his attentiveness, he stayed her hand.

"But…" her eyes fluttered between his face and the unnoticeable erection he sported.

"That'll only make it harder to restrain myself." He responded calmly, a small blush coming to his cheeks as he looked away.

Hinata flushed at his candid retort. Was her body so enticing to him that a simple shower could tempt him to rekindle their previous passions? It was flattering, naturally, as was his self-control, but she hoped this wouldn't make her gesture more suggestive than it was.

"Hinata…" he whined when she disregarded his polite refusal and began washing him. The heiress traced her own path down his flesh, over his broad shoulders and chest, taking special care around his midsection, though still causing him to inhale sharply. She had the incomparable Uchiha Sasuke in her hands, and he was like putty in them, the power alone was intoxicating. To be able to have a man like him so enthralled by the simplest of touches, or so much as a smile, it was the kind of confidence he wanted for her. And now she had it.

She continued her somewhat innocent cleaning of his body, dispelling his scrutinizing gaze with her babe in the woods stare and pout. Her fingers fluttered over the curve of his butt with impunity, even gazing the edges of his penis with not much of a protest. Though, when he moved to capture her lips for all of her teasing, she placed a delicate finger on his lips and shook her head.

"Another time, Sasuke-kun." Her words were buttery smooth and left Sasuke slightly stunned. He watched as she exited the shower and gracefully wrapped a towel around body with her own version of a smirk on her face.

"I've created a monster." he mused, shutting the shower off and following her back to the bedroom.

"I'm not a monster," she pouted in the near darkness of the bedroom, stealthily using the lack of light to slip into her undergarments before he tried anything again, "I'm your wife."

Sasuke couldn't help but smirk. It was the first time she said the words herself, typically he was the one who made the declaration, if only to see her blush. He crossed the bedroom and shuffled through his draws for a pair of boxer briefs before slipping into them and returning his attention back to her, "Hn. Should I alert my mother that there won't be a need for a wedding? Tell her that Hyuuga Hinata has already become Uchiha Hinata?"

"D-don't be silly. You would never talk to your mother about…" she trailed off, her bashful blush taking hold of her cheeks as she rummaged through her overnight bag and the few articles of clothing she brought with her, "Besides, she seems excited for our wedding. I couldn't take that from her."

"Too excited if you ask me." he sighed as he dressed himself in a pair of grey sweats and a dark long sleeve thermal. "After berating me yesterday, she dropped off a number of options for our wedding. Venues, caterers, photographers and the like."

Hinata hadn't really given the actual ceremony of getting married much thought, signing the contract had be daunting enough. But it seemed as if Sasuke hadn't done much himself either. "It all sounds…"

"Excessive, I know." He turned back to face her. He could tell by the frown on her face she was less than thrilled by the clothes she found herself in again. "But we can deal with that later. First, you'll need your things if your going to live here."

She couldn't agree more. Eagerly grabbing her near empty bag and following him out the penthouse. Sasuke paused momentarily when he was greeted by a handful of burly suited men standing in his private hallway. Though when they bowed lowly he banished the thought of it being another ambush.

"I told Jugo discreet security." he toned brushing past what seemed to be the most senior of the bunch.

"Jugo-san decided not to leave anything to chance." He retorted following the two into the elevator. He was a beast of a man with dark eyes and dark brown hair, a perpetual frown plastered on his stone like features, "Nothing more than a few sentries and a tail car, Uchiha-san."

"Hn. Should I plan to house you and your lot as well…?" Sasuke sized the man up warily, not that he doubted Jugo's council on the matter, skepticism and speculation were the only ways to survive in this business.

"Hanazaki, and that won't be necessary," he promised seemingly already aware of his destination as he pressed the button taking them to the garage, "My men and I will stay out of Hyuuga-san and your way as best we can."

"Hinata is just fine, Hanazaki-kun." assured the heiress, offering a soft smile to the hulking man. It had been some time since she had a security detail; Hiashi having saddled both her and Hanabi with their own when they were younger. Even so, she was always kind to them, knowing it couldn't have been easy essentially being a glorified babysitter.

"If you must follow us around, just try to keep up. I drive fast." The doors opened to the parking garage and he quickly led Hinata towards his row of vehicles, spotting another suited individual patrolling the area. As he and Hinata hopped into their own vehicle, they pulled out and through the garage giving their escort little time to do the same and catch up.

"Sasuke-kun…" chided the heiress with a disapproving pout.

"Just doing my due diligence, Hinata. I want to make sure Jugo didn't give us some second rate security." He defended with a smug smirk, though She could see he was just having fun with the man. Hinata peered into her mirror and could already see the man was having a difficult time keeping up in his bulky SUV.

"Don't give him anymore trouble than he needs." She scolded softly, resting her hand over his own on the gear shift, gently nudging him towards a lower gear. Hinata could tell he was kicking himself now for even teaching her that much.

Despite the more subdued pace Sasuke kept, they still reached her flat in a timely manner, bounding from the vehicle and approaching the door.

"Should I come in, Uchiha-san?" asked the sticky man as he rushed from his vehicle, warily eyeing the quiet night streets for anything suspicious.

"We'll only be a few minutes, Hanazaki-kun." assured the heiress as the crossed the threshold and made their way to the living area. An embarrassed blush formed on her cheeks as she stared at the state of her apartment. She had been in such distress and in so much of a hurry that she left the place a mess. Research papers scattered about the table and floor, half folded clothes strewn on the couch at random points. "S-sorry for the mess."

Sasuke could only shrug, he'd seen far worse after all. He scanned the surroundings as she began to mill about, organizing odds and ends as she contemplated the important things to bring with her. A cold shiver ran down his spine when she entered her bedroom. The last thing he wanted was to return home with her collection of stuffed animals.

The duo wasted no time packing all manner of textbooks, clothing, toiletries, and everything in between into her suitcases and overnight bag. Sasuke only mildly frowning when she carefully placed a few choice stuffed bedroom companions in the near packed suitcases.

"You know, I said you could move in with me. I'm not sure about the stowaways." He half joked noting the pout she produced in response. "I'd rather share my bed with only you."

"I've had these forever. I promise they won't get between us, Sasuke-kun." she defended bashfully, picking up one of them and giving it a light hug. Sasuke couldn't help but smile at her small blush, she was too damn cute to deny, he supposed.

They finished their packing and made for the door, Sasuke cursing under his breath as he had the unfortunate luck of choosing the suitcase filled with weighty textbooks. His fiancée voiced her concern, but he was quick to wave it off, not willing to be emasculated even when their guard easily carried the parcels and dropped them in his trunk.

As they entered their own mode of transportation, Sasuke eyed the clock on his dashboard, and picked up on the light grumbling of his stomach. "Hungry?"

Hinata craned her head in his direction at the sudden question as they pulled away. "A little. I can maybe make more soup when we get back."

"Hn. It's too late for you to cook. We'll grab something on the way." He responded coolly, glancing in his rearview as he turned a corner. It didn't take long for Hinata to suss out where he was taking her, they'd been there countless times, though primarily not as a couple.

"Ichiraku?" she questioned as they pulled up to the establishment and parked.

"I'm in the mood for something…familiar." Sasuke escorted his fiancée the short distance to the door, their shadow taking the lead and entering first.

"We're closing for the night, sorry." Shouted a voice from behind the worn wooden counter.

"I think you can make an exception, old man." returned the Uchiha smugly, years of patronage teaching him just how to get a rise out of the proprietor.

"Eh? Sasuke…Hinata?" he questioned in surprise, raising his head from his work to face them. "What are you doing out at this hour?"

"We're hungry, obviously." The faint scents of hearty broths and heavily reduced sauces fueling his need all the more. "You'll make the exception, won't you?"

The grizzled older man frowned lightly and gestured for them to take a seat at the counter. The two settled into their barstools while their bodyguard settled at the other end, giving the illusion of being alone.

"Three specials coming right up."

"Hn. What, no menu?" he joked, obviously not going over well with the older man and he forceful placed chopsticks in front of them before disappearing into the kitchen.

"Do you have to antagonize everyone tonight?" questioned the Hyuuga princess, clearly not too keen on his incessant teasing of Tenuchi and Hanazaki.

"A little fun never hurts." He shrugged nonchalantly at her annoyance with him, his hand covering her own smaller one as he smirked in her direction, "Besides, am I antagonizing you, Hinata-hime?"

"I never liked that nickname, or the title." A light blush rose to her cheeks at her admission. She chewed her bottom lip when she met his dark pools, inquisitive as always. "It…It was the embodiment of everything I was…"

Suddenly realizing that his gentle teasing was anything but welcome, and in fact part of a much larger deep-seated insecurity, "Hinata…you don't—"

"Everything I was supposed to be." She finished quietly, her eyes lowering from his briefly before rising again. She mustered a small sad smile, "My father always saw me as a disappointment. I just…don't want you to see me the same way, Sasuke-kun."

Sasuke gently squeezed her hand, at the earnest admission of her fear. She was right to have her reservations, the reality of her role in his conflict with Orochimaru weighed as heavily on her as it did him. But for her to think that he would look down on her for not living up to the responsibility he was forced to thrust upon her was sheer insecurity. His hand traveled up her arm and cradled her cheek, "Your father was a fool to not see your potential because it never fit into his design. But I see you for who you are. That person could never disappoint me."

His words never held a hint of deception to her, even though she knew he was far more capable than most in that regard. He was always sincere, even with hard truths. And this was no different. It was his honesty that she loved the most about him. Blunt and brutal at times, but it was the sincerity that drew her to his affirmations. Even if she didn't believe them wholeheartedly, she believed that he believed, and maybe that was enough.

She leaned into his touch just as she had with his words, her lips meeting his tenderly for a time. She pulled away and stroked his cheek, whispering her thanks before returning to his lips again, and again.

"Ahem. Did you two come here for food, or to make out?" interrupted the gruff voice on the other side of the counter, carefully dropping their steaming bowls of noodles, broth, and toppings before them. They pulled apart quickly enough to not endure a second round of admonishing, sharing a small glance like teenage lovers caught in the act before turning their attention to the food. Tenuchi returned a second later with two saucers and a bottle of sake in hand, "Congratulations by the way."

They accepted the offering, downing the gift and warming their chilled systems before their ramen had a chance to. The familiar flavors filling Sasukes stomach and senses, the latter of which in a much less satisfying fashion. Naruto had dragged him to the establishment more times than he could count when he thought the Uchiha needed a pick me up, which seemed to be always depending on who you asked. He placed his chopsticks over his bowl and paused as the memories flooded back to him. "You know…I never wanted what was expected of me either."

"What do you mean, Sasuke-kun?" her mouth half full of noodles and broth.

"Everything I have, everything I've achieved was never meant for me." He responded, a solemn look on his face as he rested his elbows on the counter, staring blankly at the wall plastered with happy patrons' photos. "It was my brother's by birthright, and ability."

Hinata listened to his tale, having very limited knowledge about his family as a whole. While she was more aquatinted with her mother and his father to an extent, she knew virtually nothing about his older brother, save for what Sakura had let slip on the rare occasion.

"When he…left the business, and the family, it became my burden to carry, among other things." His voice turned cold at the mention of his brother, but she could sense that it wasn't the man himself that perturbed him so. There was more hidden, something he buried deep in a dark forgotten place. "The spare became the heir and inherited the throne. Under any other circumstance, a dream scenario for a second born son."

"We all have our role in our families, I suppose." Her voice was somber as she absently swirled her toppings and broth. They were more alike than she ever imagined. The confidence and general well adjustedness he exuded was a product of that same familial pressure that had beaten her down into a meek self conscious person. Even with all of his success he sounded miserable. Damned if you do, damn if you don't.

They were the dreams of their parents lost in the future, hiding their deepest desires, wearing the masks to appease them. Broken reflections in a mirror of their parents design, smashed by the same hammer. But the hands that wielded that force had brought them together. Maybe, just maybe they could piece themselves back into place, together.

"It doesn't have to be like that, Hinata. Not if we don't want it to be." He could tell by the defeated sound of her voice his own demons had roused hers as well.

"Whether it's your family or mine, o-or even our own. It's all the same." She continued her eyes meeting his, tears welling in the corners, "You'll be my protective husband, I'll be your loving wife, a-and our child…"

His eyes followed her own down to her stomach, the realization of her words hitting him harder than Orochimaru's thugs had the previous night. She could be carrying his—no their child. But the surreal possibility made it all the more real. But that was what it was, what all of this was. Everything he was experiencing with her, everything he was feeling for her.

"Are you playing nothing more than your role with me, Hinata?" he hid it well but she detected the faintest tinges of sadness and anger in his voice. As if he suspected she was capable of perpetrating such an elaborate charade. "Is this not real to you?"

"Of course, it is! How can you—" fear rose to her throat and choked her words. He was pulling away, just as they had gotten so close, the closest she'd ever been to anyone and she feared she could lose it all, "S-Sasuke-kun I love you! What I feel for you is real!"

He didn't know what made him doubt her in that moment, he never had before. She was too pure for the rampant devious machinations that he dealt with every day. The truth was, he doubted himself, he doubted his own intentions from the very beginning.

She had been nothing more than a means to an end for him in the beginning. She would give him the affable appearance of a family man, respected not solely in the world of business but capable of some form of compassion. To think he was foolish enough to believe she would remain just that. Believing his walls too strong and too tall for her to ever breach. But she had become everything and more his mother had said she would be. She had become real, and so had their relationship.

"I know." He whispered, his heart thudding madly in his chest, a sad smile crossing his face as a single tear fell from her opalescent eyes. He grasped her hand and squeezed just to make sure this wasn't some sort of dream, feeling the warmth of it creep into him. "It's real for me too."

"Sasuke-kun…" she whispered, throwing herself into his arms as best she could, sobbing silently into his chest. But they were tears of happiness. "I don't want to be the trophy wife my father expects me to be. I—I don't want our child to…"

"You aren't to me, and they won't, never. Our child won't be victim to the whims of their parents like we were." He held her tight in his arms, knowing right then and there. He loved her.

The tender moment was cut short by a freezing gust of wind that blew in through the front door. Their heads turned as quickly as Hanazaki rose to meet the possible threat.

"It colder than the hinges of Hell out there!"

"Naruto-kun?" she questioned, pulling away from Sasuke to regard the newcomer.

"Hinata-chan…Sasuke-teme? What are you guys doing out this late?" Inquired the blond, seemingly unaware of the suited man until he blocked his path. "Hey! What are you doing pal?"

"It's fine, Hanazaki. He's mostly harmless." waved off the Uchiha, releasing Hinata and rising from his seat. "A late night meal is all, Naruto. But we were just leaving."

The officers face scrunched up as if he was trying to decipher some mystery in his answers. "I guess that makes sense but, what's the deal with this guy?"

Sasuke watched with minor amusement as Naruto poked the large man's chest, resulting in his wrist getting captured in a rather painful looking position. Though, he couldn't just stand idly by as his friend was manhandled. He dropped a small handful of bills on the counter before stepping forward and placed a hand on his protectors' shoulder, effectively making him drop his aggression, "You can't serve and protect everyone. That's what he's for."

"Protection? Are you Hinata-chan in some sort of trouble?" He asked, his sky blue eyes widening at the thought.

"It's nothing like that Naruto-kun. You just can't be too safe these days." Her lying had improved, that's for sure, mused Sasuke as she wrapped her arm around his. Now that he thought about it her nervous stutter had all but disappeared as well.

"If you say so, I guess." While he wasn't the sharpest tool in the shed, he still had a knack for sniffing out when something was amiss with his friends. Even so, he shuffled around them as if this was no more than a chance meeting with two and their protective strong man. "Hey old man! Is my order ready?"

Tenuchi returned with a scowl and several bags filled with containers of broth, noodles, and toppings in his hands. "You're late. Hope you like it cold."

The trio took the opportunity presented by argument between the two to give their farewells and leaving before getting drawn into anything.

They were greeted by a strong gust of wind that would have knocked Hinata off her feet were it not for Sasukes firm hold on her arm. He staref down at her as she brushed the hair from her eyes and looked up at that him.

The feelings of his earlier epiphany returning as he stared into her eyes. He never believed in anything so frivolous as love before, it was the one thing he couldn't afford or understand with his skillset and wealth. Until her. He watched as a single snowflake fell against her cheek and melted. They both stared up as the light snowfall began around them. The first of many they'd endure together, for better or worse.


The following day was also another day of firsts. The first morning he woke with her beside him. The first time they truly had to navigate the pervasive awkwardness of cohabitation, as they bumbled around one anothers morning routines. He wasn't one who relished in the triviality of "firsts" like his fiancée, but he couldn't help but smirk when she chastised him for inadvertently interrupted her daily application of makeup. She was lively and radiant in the daytime, despite their late night.

"Do you want coffee, maybe tea, Sasuke-kun?" She asked, busying about the kitchen as he sauntered into the living room half-dressed and still slightly groggy. "Maybe some breakfast?"

He watched her silently, taking in each of her graceful yet hurried movements. Dressed smartly in her dark blazer, blouse, skirt, and heels as she poured herself a cup of tea.

"You'll be late if you try cooking." contested the Uchiha, still fumbling with the buttons of his shirt with his throbbing hand.

She approached him with her brow furrowed as she more deftly buttoned his shirt for him, "Are you sure you're well enough to go to work today?"

"If I don't show myself this week Suigetsu is sure to mount a coup and take my office for himself." He half joked, glancing down at his timepiece before turning back to her, "Come on, I'll drop you off at the University."

Sasuke slipped into his blazer and shoes as she gathered her things and joined him at the door. They were greeted by their small retinue of security as they walked the short distance to their elevator.

"Ohayo Uchiha-san, Hinata-san."

"Ohayo Hanazaki-kun." Returned the heiress with a smile as they descended. "Will you be following us today?"

"I'll be escorting you to your destinations today. The on site detail will relieve me afterwards and assume my duties. Discreetly, of course." He explained, tentatively scanning the parking garage for any suspicious activity.

Sasuke could only imagine how overboard Jugo may have gone beefing up security at the office. The man was almost as overprotective as his own mother. He and Hinata emerged on to the slick streets, the snowfall still having continued through the street leaving a small accumulation and a lot of traffic.

"You're going to be late." mused the dark haired man absently, hardly steering in the stop and go traffic.

"So are you." She shot back, nervously fidgeting at the idea of being chastised by Kurenai for her tardiness.

Sasuke could only shrug with disinterest returning with a simple, "I'm the boss."

They sat there in relative silence, intermittent honks coming from those impatient or rude enough to do so. They both had a lot on their minds but neither knowing exactly how to discuss it while they had the chance.

"Are you going to call Sarutobi-san today?" asked the heiress seemingly out of the blue. In truth, she just preferred to have him quell her fears about the impending meeting rather than discuss the possible repercussions of their intimacy. They had renewed their passions upon returning home that evening, the usage of protection again a distant afterthought in their haste.

"Hn. He just needs to answer my call. Our last conversation didn't end on the best of terms." She could tell he too was dreading the collision course he was on with the veteran businessman. He cocked his head in her direction, a thoughtful look on his face, "With enough luck the meeting will be set for this week."

When she only nodded and cast her eyes back to her window, he knew something was amiss. "Hinata, I told you…you don't have to do this. I can find another way to—"

"No, I said I would do it," she asserted staunchly, knowing that if she didn't put her foot down on this he'd find some way to convince her otherwise, "I just need you to coach me through it."

The Uchiha stared hard at the road as he analyzed how best to instruct her, he himself not having a clear plan of action either. Suddenly an opportunity presented itself, a break in the traffic. Quickly he accelerated, swerving into another lane and speeding towards the intersection before making a sharp turn down a less traveled road.

"Sasuke-kun!" she scolded, having been jostled so much by his abrupt actions that she had to hold onto the dashboard for stability. "It isn't so important to get there quickly that you have to be so reckless! Did you forget about Hanazaki-kun?"

That's when it hit him. The simplest plan he'd ever come up with, one so universal Hinata could pull it off in her sleep. He had half a mind to drive directly to Sarutobi and seal the deal while the moment was visceral.

"You don't need coaching for this. By the end of the meeting Sarutobi will want nothing to do with me, and see only you as the best possible trustee on his board." He explained vaguely, only receiving a confused gaze in return. "I'll be exactly who Sarutobi expects me to be, and you be exactly who you are."

"Good cop bad cop?" she questioned after a brief pause.

"Exactly."

She stayed silent, nodding in agreement despite her skepticism of his "plan". She couldn't help but ask, "Is this really how business is done?"

Sasuke released a low chuckle at her question, finding the naïveté of it to be all too cute. "You'd be surprised."

Eventually they reached the university with few precious minutes to spare. Hastily she gathered her things and exited, or at least tried, Sasukes hand on her arm giving her pause, "Huh?"

"No goodbye kiss?" a blush immediately rushed to her cheeks. Of all the times to tease her. But she couldn't deny that smirk, or the opportunity to have the taste of his lips linger in hers a bit longer. She leaned towards his lips and gave him as he not-so-coyly asked for, pulling away when he attempted to deepen the kiss.

"Goodbye Sasuke-kun." she whispered, the fleeting thought of ditching her students for him running through her mind.

"Hn. Come by the office after if you're not too busy, of course." the smooth sound of his voice reaching her as she made her way through the quad. She could feel the eyes on her as always, but she didn't waiver or wilt. The heiress inhaled deeply, faint wisps of his scent filling her nostrils, a very Sasuke-esque smirk gracing her lips as she passed the gawkers with a confident stride. The feeling of being untouchable was intoxicating, this must have been how Sasuke always felt.


The young executive was not wrong in his assessment of the state of the office once he arrived. The bullpen was buzzing with life, even Suigetsu looked swamped.

"Boss! I need your seal of approval on some trades." He called rising from his seat and pushing through the throng of interns and analysts.

Sasuke paused in his trek to his office and glanced over the documents the shark toothed man handed him, "What did I miss?"

"Shukaku came through. The papers gained wind of his investments, all the wannabes are throwing their lot in with us as well."

"What's the commitment look like?" He questioned flipping through the substantial sums of money the man was looking to invest in what appeared to be a mix of crypto currency, water futures, and cosmetic surgery of the…chest variety.

"Twenty billion so far, we're still fielding requests and inquiries. At this rate we might lock down another twenty or more by closing time." The man was optimistic that was clear, at least for his own commission.

"Hn. Don't promise anything above 2.5 percent ROI, and drop the medical." Sasuke returned drawing a pen from his pocket and signing hastily before resuming on his path.

"Not everyone is as gifted as your fiancée ya know!" he shouted at his retreating back, receiving a glare for his crass comment. "J-joke, just a joke, boss."

"Messages?" inquired the Uchiha as he brushed passed his redhead assistant and made his way into his office. She followed close behind, notepad in hand.

"Several, Sasuke-kun." She paused a moment as he settled into his seat and stared blankly at her. "Your mother called, something about wedding planning…"

"Next."

"A few clients have expressed interest in an invitation to—"

"Next." He sighed pinching the bridge of his nose in annoyance.

"Vogue Japan has reached out to you in regards to a cover shoot with you and Hina—"

"Karin…" now she was either joking or just trying to piss him off.

"Ano…" she glanced behind her and shut the door, her demeanor shifting as she pressed her glasses up on her nose. "Orochimaru called. He seemed…pleased with your "change of heart"."

Sasuke scowled ruefully at the notion of that man being pleased with anything having to do with him. But it was necessary to continue the ruse. "Good. We'll be able to move forward unencumbered with him thinking just that."

"I've taken the liberty of having the bean counters estimate our cash reserves and easily liquidated assets." She quickly flipped through her notepad, "257 billion in reserves, and twenty billion in assets."

It was just as he expected. They were short. Sasuke leaned back in his seat and inhaled deeply. They would only have one shot at this, "How does this look to you, Karin?"

"Huh?" The redhead was taken aback by the question. Not that he didn't ask for her counsel on occasion, this was just a far more dire situation than all of those previous.

"What are the odds we survive this?" he asked firmly.

"Ano…I believe the company will survive. But if this gets out…if anyone finds out about Orochimaru…"

"I won't survive." He finished grimly, his unnerving gaze piercing through her.

"Maybe there's another way. A way that won't –"

"I've thought of all alternatives, this is the only play." Orochimaru had backed him into this corner, and this was the only way out, despite the possibly dire repercussions.

"I—I support whatever you feel is necessary, Sasuke-kun." When silence prevailed, she moved to excuse herself, peering over her shoulder before exiting, "I'm sure Hinata-san feels the same."

And so she left him with that parting statement. He knew it to be true well enough. It was the exact reason he was picking up the phone and calling to plead for an audience with someone not too fond of him.

"Konoha Asset Management, this is Moegi, how may I assist you?" answered the assistant, far more cheerfully than he was used to.

"This is Uchiha Sasuke, I need to speak to Sarutobi Hiruzen."

"U-Uchiha-san…S-Sarutobi-sama is in a meeting right now. Can I ask what this is regarding and give him the message?"

"I need to speak with him about our mutual interests and would like a meeting. Tell him it's a matter of urgency." Sasuke did his best to swallow his pride for the moment, his livelihood was on the line, as well as his future with his fiancée.

"His earliest availability is next week. I can pencil you in if you'd like?" she responded sweetly, hoping her tone would soften the demoralizing blow.

"Don't bother. I'll make my appointment in person."

"U-Uchiha-san, that's ill advi—"

Sasuke hung up before she could finish her little lecture or attempt to placate him. Time was of the essence, and he didn't need anymore roadblocks than he already had in front of him.

He eyed his watch warily, knowing full well that it was far too early to reach out to Hinata and have her rush to the office. So he did the next thing. He despised texting but it would get his message across well enough.

"You see class, behaviorism is one of the few studies of psychology that focuses almost exclusively on external stimuli." Hinata strode back and forth in front of her desk as she regarded her class, using her clicker to change the slide projected behind her. "Using scientific and objective methodologies, behaviorists provide a rationale behind our various complex reactions to various stimuli."

She couldn't help but smile, she had a captivate audience after all. Each of them diligently noting her every word. It didn't hurt that she informed them this would be on their final.

"The stimuli could be something as simple as a smell, or a sound even." she explained, picking up her cellphone to emphasize her point. As if on cue, it lit up and vibrated in her hand, several of her students letting loose stifled chuckles of amusement. She glanced at the sender, her breath hitching slightly as she read the short message.

"Call me."

"See? I've been conditioned to look at my phone when it alerts me to a message. And under normal circumstances I would answer." The heiress did her best to keep the lesson going despite her train of thought being momentarily derailed. A student raised his hand a offered her a brief reprieve, "Yes, Kawaki-kun?"

"The stimuli is as important as the response or conditioned action, no?"

"Yes, absolutely!" she answered cheerfully, happy to know she wasn't the only one enjoying what was quite possibly her best lesson to date.

"I guess your "stimuli" must not have been very stimulating!" he joked, drawing a few more chuckles from his classmates. Hinata joined in as well, albeit half-heartedly as she tried to hold back her blush. If only they knew how "stimulating" her fiancé could be.

Time seemed to fly by after several cornier puns involving the "stimulating" lecture. And as the class shuffled out her mind turned back to her phone. She wasn't as obsessed with the tiny screen as much as say Ino was, but when Sasuke was involved she found it somewhat painful to deny herself that digital connection.

The sound of the ringing filled her ears and gave her a heart a jolt, fearful that another incident was keeping him from her. Though her fears disappeared when his soothing baritone replaced the ringing.

"Hinata. I figured you would be preoccupied for a while longer."

"Ne, Sasuke-kun. I was giving a lesson when you texted, but I'm done for now. What did you want to talk about?"

"We need to meet with Sarutobi today."

"Ano…I still have another class to teach. When is the meeting?" she asked watching as the first few of her students began filing into the classroom.

"Fine." She could hear him sigh dejectedly at her response, she had to purse her lips to stop herself from doing the same. She had learned quickly that her fiancé could be so single-minded sometimes that he dismissed anything that didn't fit his plans. "I'll be waiting for you at the usual place in about an hour or so."

"W-wait, Sasuke-kun I—" before she could get her dissenting argument out, the line went dead. The heiress released a low growl and clutched her phone tightly, her anger at his rudeness trumping the sadness she felt. She had a job to do, no less important than his own and he needed to understand that without acting so passive aggressively when things didn't go his way. But, she couldn't get herself worked up over it, she had a job to do.

And do that job she did. When the dust settled on the proverbial educational battlefield several of her students lingered a bit longer asking questions and praising her pedagogical prowess.

"Well well, someone seems to have quite a few admirers. Should I worry you'll take my job?" cooed the dark haired woman as she strode into the room, her heels clicking loudly against the linoleum. How the woman managed to wear them so far along into her pregnancy Hinata would never know, she could hardly wear them for the few hours she spent on her own feet.

"Only when you take your maternity leave, Kurenai-sensei." She returned with a smile and bow, her eyes fixating slightly at her abdomen. She couldn't help but wonder if she would get as large if she was truly pregnant, but quickly shoved the thought aside. "And thank you for letting me take time off the other day on such short notice."

"Despite your vagueness, I think you deserved it." She moved to take the seat at her desk, releasing a sigh as she rested her attaché on the desk and her hands on her engorged belly, "So, are you going to tell me what the emergency was, or should I just assume it had something to do with that fiancé of yours?"

Hinata gasped, her face flushing at the unbelievable intuition of her mentor. "Wh-what? Why would you…?"

"Those marks on your neck are from him, no doubt." She remarked knowingly with a smirk, "I'm not too old to know what those are."

The charade was up. The opal eyed girl began fidgeting under her gaze, rubbing the light blemishes on her neck, suddenly feeling like she'd misled the older woman in pursuit of carnal pleasures. "It isn't like that Kurenai-sensei. I swear."

"And I'm inclined to believe you. But Hinata…" she leaned forward and rested her elbows on the desk, her face shifting to a more stern look. "I understand that he's your first boyfriend, and your fiancé. I understand that his comfortable lifestyle can be intoxicating, but I don't want to see you forget all of your hard work and dedication because of him. I don't want to see you disappear."

Hinata's lips parted at the sincere concern she had for her, some part of her knowing that she only had her best interests at heart. And she was right. The graduate student had hardly touched her thesis in the last few days, largely because she was so preoccupied by her betrothed. Hinata hung her head, somewhat ashamed of how easily she'd let Sasuke all but take control of her life. "Gomen…I can—I will do better."

The professor waved off her sullen attitude nonchalantly and slowly rose to her feet, needing a little assistance with. "Have your fun Hinata, but don't take your eye off the prize, alright?"

"Hai." She smiled as her mentor began pulling papers out of bag.

"Good girl. Now, run along. As long as I can walk, I can teach."

Hinata gave her goodbyes and left the classroom finally, her mind conflicted with how to proceed. She checked her phone briefly, noting that Sasuke was surely speeding towards her now, if not already waiting. Kurenai's words resonating in her head as she pouted at her indecision.

Despite her focus and poise in the classroom, she had been a wreck on the inside. Her thoughts fixated on what may or may not be growing inside her. And after ruminating on the subject briefly with her pregnant counterpart, she wasn't so sure she'd be capable of such a thing. Her career had barely even started and all of her hard work could be dashed to the floor before her because of a few nights of passion. It could have all just been in her head, the probability of them conceiving so easily was a toss up, but a gamble nonetheless.


Sasuke tapped his fingers impatiently against the dashboard of his car as he waited for his fiancée. He had been waiting well over twenty minutes for her and was beginning to get antsy. He had slipped his security detail easily enough, deciding that it would be unwise show up to a unscheduled meeting with a walking slab of muscle behind him. Though now he wished he brought Hanazaki, or Jugo to drag her out of there.

Suddenly, someone rapped on the passenger side window, prompting him to unlock the door hastily before they opened it. "You're late."

"Oh, am I now? Late for what exactly?" Sasuke stiffened at the sound of that voice, his head snapping to his side to glare at the intruder and her grin. It was not the woman he was expecting.

"What do you think you're doing here?" he spat as she removed her dark sunglasses and casually settled into the leather of her seat.

"Just checking up on my favorite Uchiha. Or do you plan to take your princesses surname?" Sasuke bared his teeth in anger, he swore he'd make her pay for what she'd done to him, and was seriously considering against his better judgement to lay hands on her. She chuckled at his harsh stare, only returning an aloof smirk, "Lighten up, Sasuke. It was only business."

"Business? Maybe I should visit your home sometime to conduct some "business"." He hoped his threat came across as deathly serious as intended.

"You of all people know better than to threaten me with a good time." She retorted in a low sultry voice, leaning in and reaching for his chin only to have him slap it away quickly.

"I won't ask again. Why are you here, Tayuya?"

"Orochimaru-sama is happy with your decision to work with him. I however…" Tayuya turned her body to face him completely, her face contorting in a scowl before continuing, "do not like being left in the dark."

"Tch, you just want to cover your ass." He sneered, finding her very presence to be offensive. She was his three hundred billion yen mistake.

"I know you won't take this lying down. You have too much pride for that. So tell me, how do you plan to fuck the old man over?"

He had no reason to trust that her sole motive was self-preservation. She was just as likely to rat him out to her boss as she was to keep their secret alliance as such. But she would dangle her photos in front of the media and Hinata before she let him disavow her.

"Orochimaru will get his seat at the table, but on my terms." He answered simply not wishing to tip his hand just yet. But he could see her hard look soften, her eyes widen slightly at his capitulation. He saw an opening and took it, "They can be on your terms as well, if we play it smart."

"Oh, it's we now is it?" she returned to that suggestive tone once again just as he expected. The woman was obsessed with him, and as much as it irked him, he could use that to his advantage.

"I want to be rid of that man same as you. I think we can put our…history behind us to achieve our common goal." He was trying to level with her even though it was making him physically ill. "All you have to do is follow my instructions carefully."

"I love it when you take control." She cooed, leaning closer to listen to his demands like an ever-eager assistant.

"First, you'll tell Orochimaru whatever he needs to hear to stay off my back, true or otherwise." He kept his voice calm and soothing, noting how her eyes glassed over as she listened. She was his now. He let a small smirk grace his lips as he grabbed a tendril of her lengthy red hair, "Second, you'll keep me alerted to his dealings. It's the only way I can get you what you want."

"And what do I want?" she breathed too entranced to think very clearly about anything other than his commands.

"You want your freedom. Same as me." Sasuke could see the diminutive blush form on her cheeks; the first sign to him that she wasn't a complete heartless bitch. But he didn't care about that, he just needed her cooperation. "Think you can do that?"

She could only nod numbly in response. It was good enough for him. She may have been a devious malcontent, but she had some semblance of honor in her own twisted way. Her word was all she had if you stripped her of her tailored suit and money, same as him.

"Good. Now lastly, get out of my fucking car." Despite the even tone of his voice, his words were enough to snap her from her trance. She blinked several times as she tried to get her bearings, before his words sunk in finally. Once the realization that she'd been played hit her, she bared her teeth and released a defeated huff.

"Fine, asshole. Just…answer the damn phone when I call." With that she left him, slamming the door to emphasize her dissatisfaction with the conversations conclusion as she disappeared into a crowd.

Sasuke-kun breathed a sigh of relief, his stomach beginning to settle at her departure. He exited the car shortly after, finding that the scent of cinnamon spice and stale cigarettes she left in her wake to delay his recovery.

That was when he spotted Hinata, she was briskly walking towards him, and with her eyesight she may have witnessed his shady associates departure. No doubt there would be questions if such was the case. Thinking quickly, he walked around the vehicle and opened her door, hoping to air it out before she arrived.

"Hinata." He greeted simply, choosing something innocuous rather than chastise her for her tardiness. Though, when she hardly returned more than a glance before entering, he feared the worse. He frowned and shut her door, anticipating a litany of questions at best, and a tongue lashing at worst. It may not have been in her nature before, but she had changed.

He entered the driver's seat and pulled away with nary a word, taking the moment of silence to find the right words. "I'm sorry if I was short with you earlier. I was—"

"It's fine, Sasuke-kun." Her voice was small and subdued, entirely not what he was expecting to hear, and that concerned him even more. He'd learned with Sakura that "fine" meant anything but that, and usually the exact opposite.

He pursed his lips and glanced at her from the corner of his eye; she was clutching her purse tightly to her chest, as it were the only thing she could rely on, the only thing that made her feel safe. Whatever was wrong had nothing to do with Tayuya, that should've been a relief but it wasn't. "We don't have to do this. Meeting with Sarutobi can wait if you—"

"Don't do that." She snapped, earning his undivided attention in an instant. But her voice softened, the force of is scaring ever herself somewhat, "Don't…don't decide for me. Let me choose for myself."

He opened his mouth to defend himself, feeling like she had unjustly accused him. He wasn't trying to decide anything for her, or control her. "Hinata…"

"I—I'm doing this for you, for us." Her words and body language betraying how she felt. She was angry, and conflicted, and confused, and worried all at once. "I promised to do it so I'm doing it. End of story."

It was odd being the one silenced, and it hurt him somewhat. He had grown to enjoy their car conversations, no matter how innocuous. Though, he shoved his small sadness aside and nodded. Whatever her reasons was for shutting him we're, he would respect them.

The two drove across town in relative silence, save for Hinata's request for him to turn the heat on. When they arrived and were ushered through to the visitors parking they say in the car briefly, taking in the awkward calm before the storm.

"Thank you."

Hinata's head snapped in his direction at the sudden nicety. A delicate eyebrow raised as she considered why he'd chosen those as his first words in several minutes.

"For this. For…everything." He continued, his own head turning slowly to regard her. If she didn't know any better, she would say she could see the smallest beginnings of a blush on his cheeks. Her heart melted at the sight, her mind almost completely forgetting being cross with him.

She shook her head and smiled, a matching blush of her own meeting his, "I know you would do the same for me, Sasuke-kun."

The Uchiha executive held her hands in his, bringing them to his lips and kissing the supple skin. He whispered his thanks again before they disembarked and made their way to the elevator. Hinata held his hand as they ascended, the fear she expected to feel a distant memory.

"Anything you'd like to say to me before Sarutobi crucifies me?" he asked as they approached the top floor of the towering building.

"Why would you say such a thing?" she asked, a confused pout marring her visage once the lift came to a stop.

"Because, we don't have an appointment." Her jaw dropped at his nonchalant admission as the elevator doors opened to the lavish office Konoha Asset Management.

"Yes, if you leave me your…" the orange haired assistant peeked her head up from her desk as she watched the two figures approach. "G-gomen, p-please call back later."

"Moegi, is it?" toned the Uchiha, his voice even and stern as he stared down at the young woman. "I think you know who we're here to see."

"U-Uchiha-san…" her eyes panning over to his companion, widening in shock, "Hinata-chan?"

"Hi, Moegi-chan. How are you?" despite the palpable tension in the air, she did her best to diffuse the situation with a soft smile. Sasuke craning his head in her direction at the familiar exchange. She was better connected than he thought it seemed.

"I-I'm fine, but…" nervously the assistants eyes darted between the two before squaring her shoulders and inhaling deeply, "Sarutobi-sama is in a closed door meeting with the board. He isn't—"

"Perfect. We'll see ourselves in." interrupted the brash Uchiha with a smirk. Hinata's lips parted at his forwardness, it seemed he had already began their little plan, or he was just being his usual proud self.

When he began walking into the open office, Moegi was quick to rise and protest. Hinata followed close behind doing her best to deescalate the situation.

"It's urgent Moegi-chan, we'll only be a moment. Promise." Her words gave all parties pause. After some internal deliberation the young woman capitulated, begrudgingly leading them to the main conference room.

"Full of surprises, hm?" whispered Sasuke to his companion, "How?"

"She's friends with Konohamaru." She returned quietly.

"Hn. Your sister's boyfriend." He mused, silently wishing he had thought to look into these small degrees separation.

"They're not…" Hinata had to ponder the possibility briefly before continuing, "Are they?"

"I can hear you, you know? Chimed their usher in annoyance as they approached the glass enclosed conference room occupied by a sea of suits. "Please, wait here."

Sasuke and Hinata watched as she rapped on the glass meekly before being acknowledged and waved inside. She gesture with her head for them to follow before skidding the door open. It wasn't until now that Hinata could hear her heart in her ears.

"Gomen nasai, Sarutobi-sama. Uchiha-san and Hyuuga-san would like a moment of your time."

The room fell silent, and all eyes turned to the intruders before the elderly man at the head of the table rose. Liver spotted cheeks and wrinkled skin contorting as he eyed them sternly.

"I have it on very good authority that both the Uchiha's and Hyuuga's have excellent eyesight." His voice was wizened but commanded respect even in the spacious conference room, "So can you tell me Moegi, why it is that neither of them can see I am indisposed?"

"I…"

"I'd ask you to forgive the intrusion, but I'm a little hurt I wasn't invited." He began, jamming his hands in his pockets as he sauntered into the room, examining the faces of the old men. Fossils each and everyone of them, they were right to be threatened by his appearance. "After all, I have the solution this council seeks."

"The boy is clearly deranged. Call security and have him escorted off the premises before he makes a bigger fool of himself." sneered a board member clearly none too keen on his presence. Unfortunately Sarutobi was in agreement with the man, gesturing towards the diminutive assistant to make it so.

"You overplay your hand, Sasuke. Believing your father's wealth and good name will get you what you want." Berated the president and leader of the forum like a disappointed grandfather. "And to involve Hiashi's daughter in your—"

"Three hundred billion." interceded the Uchiha, his temper threatening to rear it's head. When the room fell silent and the loose skin on their faces dropped several centimeters, he continued, "I think you all know well enough what I'm referring to."

The silence was the loudest Hinata had ever heard, she didn't know if they were ready to descend on them and take matters into their own hands or begrudgingly welcome them. Once security arrived the former seemed most likely.

"…Pull up a seat then. Plead your case." The room erupted into murmurs of disapproval but petered out quickly enough once the interlopers situated themselves across from Sarutobi at the large table, effectively dismissing the summoned guards.

Sasuke looked over at Hinata briefly, she was frightened clearly. He couldn't blame her, they were in the lions den now, damn near sticking their heads in their waiting mouths.

When she returned the glance and inhaled deeply he knew she was ready to wade past the point of no return with him.

"The debt hanging over this firms head could be the first nail in its coffin. Even as a competitor, I do not wish to see this." he began, a sea of grey hair sneering and scoffing at his remark dismissively. "We were allies once after all, and in your time of need, I see the opportunity to return to those days."

"Hm. Those were the days of your father's leadership, and your older brothers guidance. But you…have never sought something for nothing." countered Sarutobi, his fingers knotting together as his brow furrowed in thought, "Always seeking new ways to grow the legacy you inherited. Is that why you've set your sights on Konoha?"

Sasuke pursed his lips at the old man's words. They could go back and forth about his intentions and his family all day, and he would be no closer to the resolution he sought. "This isn't a hostile takeover. Far from it. Think of it as…"

"A lifeboat." All eyes shifted to the light voice that carried slightly over Sasukes own. Hinata could see her fiancée's lips part slightly from the corner of her eye, surprised if not shocked at her bold intercession. But she remained strong under the thousand-yard stares she received. "Even the most seaworthy vessel needs a lifeboat."

It was a simple illustration of their modest proposal, but more than adequate. With a few soft words she earned herself a captive audience. Even Hiruzen was looking at her differently. If only her father could see her now.

"Poignant Hinata-san, and do not take this the wrong way but, do you come here representing Hiashi's interests, or your fiancé's?" the duo bristled at the veiled barb, Sasuke more so. She could see his fist tighten underneath the table and his shoulders tense. She couldn't be sure if this was all part of his charade or if he was truly prepared to make a spectacle of himself like they wanted.

"Neither, Sarutobi-sama." She returned with a smile, hoping to stay her darker counterparts hand and allay Sarutobi's attempt at concern in one fell swoop. "I represent my own interests, sharing only my fiancé's desire to see an ally and friend succeed."

"Which brings us to our solution to your debt covenant." Sasuke leaned forward against the table, his eyes hard on his elderly quarry. "Tomoe is prepared to settle the debt, in hopes of rekindling partnership between our two firms."

"And Fugaku is prepared to shoulder such a burden in the spirit of this partnership, and nothing more?" questioned the wizened man, his critical stare cutting his would be "savior" to the bone.

"My father…" hesitation ensnared the Uchiha as he contemplated the repercussions his next words may have. He would live or die by them, "My father has all but formally stepped back from the business. The financial operations are under my purview, as is this decision."

"I see." his simple words hung in the air like a noose, threatening to hang them at any moment.

"As to the spirit of this agreement, I could not in good conscience follow through without some form of…concessions."

"Of course." Sasuke expected no less than the ruefully tone he received, or the glares the accompanied it. "What's the price your "conscience" has in mind?"

Sasuke rose to his feet somewhat abruptly, taking slow, lengthy strides around the room, his hands in his pockets and brow furrowed in thought as if he hadn't already came up with an answer, "Your board has one less member, and if news of this debt gets out, your misfortunes will double if not triple."

"A competitor on our board would be far more damaging than any debt covenant."

"Indeed. That's the inherent problem with a board of directors." The young Uchiha stopped to stare out the floor to ceiling windows with his back turned to the room. "You put your business, and trust in people with ulterior motives and side businesses. I'm no different than them."

"While we still draw breath, Sasuke." rushed Sarutobi, impatiently tapping his finger at the young man's fanfare.

"Hn. My price is to the betterment of this board and firm as a whole. By casting out the partisan tactics of old." He continued his casual walk, ending up behind Hinata. Carefully he placed his hands on her shoulders, feeling her shiver and tense at his touch. "By installing the pristine name that is Hyuuga, and the impartial view of an incorruptible mind on this board."

This was the moment the heiress feared the most. She feared that open mouths that stared at her would soon erupt into laughter. That despite Sasuke's impassioned speech they would see her as nothing more than a disgraced heiress in a pressed suit, with a pretty face. Though when the old men began whispering and murmuring amongst themselves a spark of hope formed inside.

"Is this true, Hinata? Do you believe you can be an asset to Konoha as a board member?" The arbiter of the meeting was the first to speak, immediately silencing all other voices.

"Yes, I—I…" she stopped herself when she felt her concentration slip and her stutter reared it's ugly head. Sasuke was quick to give her a reassuring squeeze, hoping his support would be enough. "I do believe I can be an asset, Sarutobi-sama."

"By what right do think you can serve this firm better than any veteran of this business?" chimed an irate member, clearly not interested in entertaining the idea any longer. "She's no more than a child, the both of them! Sarutobi-san, enough is enough, send them on their way to play house and leave us to serious business."

Hinata could hear Sasuke growl behind her, his hands leaving her shoulders suddenly as if prepared to strangle what little life was left out of the man. But Hinata had had enough as well. She would not be characterized as that meek, dull girl they all believed her to be anymore.

She rose to her feet before Sasuke could even take his first steps, slamming her palms on the table and halting him instantly. "With all due respect, I was born in a boardroom. I learned the ins and outs at my father's side for years. And I will not allow you to slander my fiancé, or my family's name and reputation because you're too narrow-minded to see past our age."

Sasuke couldn't help but smirk as the man's face drained of all color, rivaling the eyes of the woman staring him down. He'd be lying if he said he wasn't incredibly turned on by her show of force, but that would have to wait.

"Settle, everyone." Ordered Sarutobi as the dissenting opinions grew louder at the unexpected outburst. "Please forgive Homura, it's a trying time since Danzo left our ranks for all of us."

"Hn. Unfortunately we did not come here to be insulted. Hinata?" Sasuke offered her his hand as he looked towards the exit. The heiress eyed him curiously before catching his meaning. She took a deep breath and smoothed out her blouse and blazer before accepting.

"Thank you for your time. I'm sorry we could not come to an agreement, Sarutobi-sama. I will give my father your regards." She offered a small smile as they made their way to the door at a slow pace.

"Wait." He finally spoke as they prepared to cross the threshold. He rose to his feet and eyed them critically, "Your offer is generous, Sasuke. But I—we will need to take your solution into consideration and weigh our options."

"Naturally, but the longer you wait the more you risk this discussion getting out." toned the Uchiha peering over his shoulder. "I think the saying is, loose lips sink ships. And your lifeboat is departing."

The duo left them with that veiled threat and no more. It wasn't until they were alone in the elevator that Hinata realized she was shaking. The adrenaline of it all still coursing through her veins.

"Relax Hinata. You did well." he assured with a squeeze of her hand as he spun her to face him.

"How can you be so sure? They hated me more than you!" Sasuke chuckled at her pout and childish act. He brought her hand to his lips and kissed it gently, his way of thanking her for the brave face she put on in his defense.

"The old men are quick to dismiss what scares them. Helps them keep their false sense of security." he explained pressing her close to his body and smirking, "My lioness bared her fangs. I'd be frightened as well."

"Do you think they'll accept the offer?" she asked, burying her nose in his scent to calm her nerves.

"They'll brood for another hour or so, and then realize we're their only way out." He pulled away slightly as the elevator door opened to the parking garage. He brushed the stray strands of hair from her face with a rare smile, "Just don't let it go to your head, Hinata-sama."

"Quit teasing me already." She whispered through her blush. The heiress gently tugged on his lapels to pull him closer, a slightly bashful look on her face, "Just…kiss me."

"Bossy bossy. I could get used to this." He cooed, pulling her into the parking garage, leaning towards her waiting lips and obliging her request.


Sasuke wasn't wrong about his prediction for the resolution of their meeting with the old guard of Konoha Asset Management. Mere seconds upon their arrival home, Sasuke's cellphone rang.

"Sasuke-kun? I have Sarutobi-san on the other line. Should I tell him you're not available?" questioned the redhead secretary.

Sasuke threw his fiancée a knowing smirk as he placed the device on the kitchen counter and left it on speaker. "Patch him through, Karin."

"Hai. One moment."

"Sasuke-san? Are you there?" piped the distant voice of the old man.

"I'm here. Hinata as well. Have you consider my offer?" Sasuke did his best to rein in his cocksure tone, if only for the moment. Last thing he needed was to torpedo the deal when he was so sure to closing it.

"…The board and I have considered your offer." the dramatic pause heightened the moment for them, whether it be purposefully done or simply last minute hesitation. "After much deliberation, we've elected to accept. Under one condition."

The Uchiha could see his companions lips part in shock, soundlessly gasping at the turn of events.

"Name it, Sarutobi-san." Sasuke did well to add the honorific, to at least lead his unwitting ally to believe he respected him more than he truly did.

"Hinata-san must be an impartial party, and will be bound contractually to a nondisclosure agreement."

Sasuke expected no less. They would take his money happily, but threaten both with legal action if she divulged any sensitive information. They truly were making this all too easy, for a moment it gave him pause. They'd have the power to turn her against him if they desired to do so. But they knew little of their bond, their trust in one another.

"Hinata may be my fiancée, but her mind is her own. She speaks for herself." He turned his dark gaze to his side and took in her body language. Hesitant, but still strong in it's own right.

"I…" the words caught in her throat briefly as he eyes shifted between the phone and Sasuke. "I accept. Under the pretense that I am allowed to continue my teaching obligations and professional pursuits."

"Hm, of course." He returned, seemingly relived that her stipulation was an easy one to oblige.

"I'm sure there will be much to discuss in the future amongst yourselves at a later date." Now that the deal was all but in writing Sasuke felt no need to continue the ego stroking longer than necessary. "If you'll excuse us Sarutobi, I'd like to celebrate withy fiancée."

"Fair enough, Sasuke. Farewell."

Hinata still couldn't believe it. She had all but bluffed her way into the position of a powerful executive. Be it on Sasukes goodwill, her family name, or her own merits, she did it. The heiress was so stunned she hardly noticed her lover was embracing her until he whispered her name in her ear.

"So, it's done?" she whispered in return, staring longingly into his eyes.

"The hard part at least." he assured, "You've just earned yourself a comfortable seat on a board I couldn't, even with all my money."

He was just trying to stroke what little ego she had, and it was working somewhat. Smooth talker like always. "Your plan wasn't working, so I had to improvise."

"Hn, and improvise you did." Hinata could feel her heart flutter at the deep baritone of his voice. It was all too indicative of what was to come next. "Maybe you can teach me your style of negotiation."

She smiled at his flirtatious nature despite the internal turmoil she was feeling. With one crisis averted, the next took its place. She needed to have a serious talk with him, it was the only thing she dreaded more than the tenuous meeting she had just survived. But when she felt his hands take a more possessive hold of her waist, she felt her moment slip away, just as her will was.

"Sasuke-kun…wait we—" as she tried to pull away, her purse slipped from her shoulder and fell to the floor, it's contents spilling onto the carpet. Her heart followed as he knelt to gather her things before her own body could act. "Sasuke-kun I…I'm sorry I—I..."

His face contorted in confusion at her concern as he shuffled her odds and ends back into her purse, stopping only when he noticed something out of place. He grasped the small square carton and inspected it closer, his eyes widening at the realization. "Is this…?"

"Y-yes." She answered meekly. She was absolutely mortified. She had been so embarrassed when she approached Tsunade with her dilemma, seeking guidance, she didn't think it could have gotten any worse, but now it had. The sheer look of sadness and betrayal on his face bringing tears to her eyes. "I don't…I can't have a c-child…not now."


Dun dun dun! Little cliffhanger there and I'm sure some of you hate me a lot right now, for a few reasons. So let's address some things. As the author, it's my duty to make an otherwise unrelatable tale for many, engaging and accessible for all. To do so I draw from my own real world experiences. My goal is to make this the most human story I've ever written and if I have to push a few buttons to do so, so be.

That being said, I am in no shape or form pushing a pro Plan B agenda, even though I support a woman's right to choose. I am merely painting a picture of something that occurs within relationships across the world. My own feelings on the subject are just that, and I would never force characters to share my point of view to stroke my ego. I've even researched the efficacies of the morning after pill in Japan. Did you know it requires a doctor's prescription? Hence alluding to Hinata meeting Tsunade. But I digress. At the end of the day I wanted to humanize the relationship between Sasuke and Hinata, and in doing that I force them to not just be the untouchable filthy rich children of wealthy families but simple young adults in love trying to navigate at new relationship.

Let me know what you think of this chapter, PM, Review, whatever. Let me hear what you think of Tayuya's role and motivations, Hinata's budding independence and personal growth, Sasuke's mysterious machinations, whatever, I wanna hear them all.

Next Chapter: Lie, Cheat, Steal

Until next time! Sayonara!