A/N: I'm baaaaaack. And boy is it a doozy!


Foes

Hinata stood frozen in place, unable to focus on formulating an adequate answer to Tayuya's harsh inquiry and her breathing at the same time. The brisk winters air froze her voice in her throat, and it wasn't until the fiery redhead stepped closer that it thawed, "I…"

"Where. Is. He." she asked again, her grip tightening on the rim of her helmet as if prepared to cave the heiress's skull in if need be.

"H-he's…" her nervous stutter returning briefly before she pursed her lips and inhaled deeply. Tayuya's very persona was fueled by fear, feeding off belittling and lording over others. She refused to be her plaything again. Something soft and weak she could toy with as she pleased. "He's with Kin."

It wasn't the most informative answer as it was what she figured in the first place, but it enraged her all the same. Tayuya huffed angrily before turning and storming towards the door.

"W-wait!" called the heiress, giving the other woman momentary pause. When she acknowledged her ruefully, Hinata shifted her armful of goods, "I could use some help. This is for Kin, after all."

The disgruntled enforcer opened her mouth to protest, before making a dejected sound and shuffling over to her and relieving Hinata of some of her load. She stayed silent for the most of their trek up the stairs, only grumbling something as they ascended, "If he's done anything to her, I'll kill him first, and then you."

As dark as the threat was, it was quite possibly the most cordial thing she'd ever said to her.

Once they arrived at their floor, Tayuya shouldered through the door with force, hoping to take her unsuspecting prey by surprise. She burst in on them, with Kin suggestively close to a cornered Sasuke, her tank top straps barely clinging to her shoulders. The redhead released a primal growl, like a lioness warning interlopers of her claim on a kill, before making her presence known, "Kin!"

The dark-haired woman jumped back in kind, her expression a mix of annoyance and horror at the sudden appearance. For once Sasuke was glad for Tayuya showing her face. "Tay! Y-you're back…."

"Yeah, I am." she snarled, unceremoniously dropping the boxes of food on the floor before stomping closer. Sasuke remained stone-faced and still as she neared, "I'll deal with you later, but you…what makes you think you can come here and pull this shit!?"

"The same thing that makes you think you can assault my people with impunity. Call it, hubris." He returned, unafraid of whatever physical retribution she undoubtedly wanted to inflict on him.

"Tch! How else was I supposed to get your attention after you stopped taking my calls?" she defended, planting her hands on her hips and shaking her head before peering over her shoulder at the woman he'd chosen over their partnership, "Count yourself lucky I chose a bar and not her."

"You're the lucky one." he returned with a glare. For a moment he lost the plot, completely forgetting the purpose for them meeting in her little hideaway. She had that effect on him. "Your reckless decisions effect more than just me."

He could see her stiffen at the veiled threat, her eyes darting in Kin's direction before returning to scowl at him. She needed to understand that the game had gone too far and for too long. To go any further would only be an exercise in mutually assured destruction.

"Your problem is with me, leave Kin out of it…and I promise I'll limit the collateral damage." As begrudging as the promise was, Sasuke believed it to be true. But it wasn't enough.

"There won't be any more collateral damage. We end this now." He all but ordered, moving from the corner towards Hinata. "Did Orochimaru put you up to it, or were you just having "fun"?"

"The order came from him; the method was my own design." explained the redhead, as if proud of her vicious cunning. "And it all could have been avoided—"

"What does he want?" piped the heiress, knowing that the two of them would no doubt come to blows if they continued their posturing.

"My boss wants you to start throwing that surname of yours around, in his favor of course."

"As opposed to your favor?" quipped Sasuke, a small smirk coming to his face at her shocked expression. "I know about the rehab, and the sponsorship you need for Kin."

"Damnit Kin! What didn't you tell them!?"

"I swear I—I didn't say a thing! T-they just figured it out…"

"Why am I not surprised? Look at this fucking place!" she exclaimed gesturing towards the paraphernalia scattered on the table. She shook her head in disbelief at the state of affairs before turning back to her foes. "So what? You want to blackmail me now?"

Sasuke had to think on the prospect momentarily, he had more of a denial of services attack rather than blackmail in mind. She had more to lose than she let on, Kin was proof enough. "Blackmail is nothing. I would make it my mission to expose the both of you. Your businesses will fail. No firm will take you. No centers will help her. You'll be worse than outcasts. Not even Orochimaru will want you anymore by the time I'm done with him."

Hinata flinched at the harshness of his words. This was the Sasuke the world knew. The cold, callous man who stopped at nothing to achieve his goals. He'd shed his very sense of right and wrong in place of the sole virtue of doing what must be done. Single minded, dangerous and destructive.

"You bastard…." seethed the redhead, her dull nails digging into her palms.

"I will sponsor Kin." spoke the heiress loudly, her voice rising above the tit-for-tat that she saw building. For all the vitriol they had, she was the sole participant who could be above reproach and devoid of all ulterior motives. The only one willing to yield in hopes of finally putting the conflict to rest. "Help is what she needs, I have…the right name and credentials to facilitate whatever she needs."

"Hinata, you don't—"

"Let her speak, Uchiha. She clearly has the bigger pair and wears the pants in your relationship." quipped the crass woman with a smirk. "And what do you intend to do to appease Orochimaru, Hinata?

"She's only just been added to the board. A move now would be scrutinized to say the least." rationalized Sasuke, seeking to keep Hinata as far away from the seedy man's dealings as humanly possible.

"That's not my concern." She declared, casually brushing past the two and grabbing one of Hinata's treats from the kitchen, nonchalantly chomping away. "I do what I'm told, Uchiha. It's your turn now. The both of you."

They shared a look, Sasuke silently pleading with her to not do this, knowing full well what availing yourself to Tayuya or her employer entailed. She would become their thrall, forced to bend or be broken. But Hinata didn't care, she saw no other solution, just as he hadn't.

"Whatever it is…I'll do it." her voice was soft, reminiscent of how she reacted to Sasuke nominating her for Sarutobi's board. He could see it now. With each request she lost a part of herself, replacing her very essence with something unnatural and dark.

"Excellent. I'm sure you'll have need for this now." she responded, producing a disposable phone from her pocket and handing it to her new "friend". "I'm glad you have the good sense to do what it takes to put this to rest."

"Then we're in agreement. We do this, and you leave us alone." Sasuke was clearly growing tired of her company.

"Don't worry, I wasn't expecting an invitation to the wedding or anything." she sneered mid bite of a rice ball, "But yes, the photos will be destroyed, and you'll never hear from me again. Once Orochimaru is satisfied."

"Then we have no more to discuss." He made his distaste for the outcome known, hardly even bothering to look at Hinata as he made for the door.

"What? Not staying for lunch?"

The heiress ignored her barb just as her fiancé did, but when she moved to follow, her path was blocked by Tayuya's ward. She was fidgety and watching the redhead from the corner of her eye as if wary of what she'd do if she saw them talking. Secretly she jammed a piece of paper in her hand before scurrying away. Hinata was wise enough to not pay the odd happening any attention, only place the scrap of paper in her pocket before hurrying behind Sasuke.

He was silent and pensive, upset obviously, and he remained that way all the way to the car and even a few blocks from Tayuya's hideout.

"Sasuke-kun…I think we should—"

"Don't ever undermine me like that again." he snapped sharply, his eyes never leaving the road.

"I—I didn't…a-and don't talk to me like I'm a child."

"Why not? Only a child would agree to the unknown so eagerly."

"I agreed to help Kin! She deserves a chance to get better!"

"Yes, your "kindness" killed all chances of leveraging Tayuya, never mind gaining the upper-hand on Orochimaru."

"It was the right thing to do. We don't have to be like them to beat them." she defended adamantly, only to hear him scoff in response. She could feel her fury rise at the sound, her eyes narrowing in disgust at his attitude, "You never intended to do anything but threaten her, didn't you?"

"Hinata...you don't understand these people like I do." he could feel her eyes burrowing deeper through him with each passing second. He knew that he had been unfair and crude to her, but those were the kind of people they were dealing with. "The "right" things don't work on them. They've made a living doing wrong to beat their enemies into submission."

"I will fix this my way. With or without your help, Sasuke-kun." her tone left little room for argument, and he could find none that wouldn't simply dig himself a deeper hole. So, they sat there in silence, the tension following them all the way into their home.

He watched as she brushed passed him with her work and settled onto the couch with nary a glance. His lips contorted at the sight, but he wasn't ready to admit his faults just yet, not when he still believed he had a valid argument. Sasuke retreated down the penthouse corridors and came to a stop at his locked sanctuary. He hadn't used the room since Hinata moved it, he had no need. She supplied all the mental clarity and assurances he needed, but she had all but forsaken him.

He used the key he kept on his person and unlocked the door, the faint smell of grease and steel greeting him in the darkness as he stepped inside and closed the door behind him. He flipped the switch on the wall and eyed his small workshop with fond familiarity. The Uchiha crossed the small distance to his workbench and inspected the half-completed project he abandoned months ago, before Orochimaru or Tayuya, before Hinata had entered his life. He shed his outerwear and quickly sat down, returning to his toiling on an alternator without skipping a beat. Though his heart wasn't truly in it.

He had scolded her, hurt her feelings when all she was trying to do was help. He was making a fool of himself yet again, proclaiming that they were in this together and they would only see the other side if they remained as such, only to shun and berate her because her methods didn't mesh with his own.

He was so focused on his thoughts and not the parts in his hand that the tool slipped from his grasp and ended up slicing his thumb open on a jagged edge. He cursed himself as the blood began to gush from his wound, hastily he pulled out random draws in search of bandages to stem the flow. His search ended when he found a rag that sufficed for the time being, but eyed the curiosity hidden beneath it. He pulled what appeared to be a wooden picture frame, his eyes widening as he turned it about and saw the image trapped beneath the thin glass. It was a picture of him and Itachi standing in front of his car.

They were both flashing smiles, Sasuke bright and naïve, Itachi's pensive yet cocky, as if knowing the world would bend before their combine might, or else. But those days were long past the both of them, and he was slowly inching closer to being the second exiled prince of the Uchiha's. He couldn't trust his father, or mother, and his brother was more enigmatic than all of them combined. He was alone, the coming darkness closing in around him, hunting him relentlessly like a beast in the night.

"…You have something I never had. A smart woman, who loves you by your side."

The words of his brother floated in his head as he stared thoughtfully at the photo. He was right, he had Hinata. She had every opportunity to rebuff him, from the very instant he began his "courtship", to signing their marriage contract, all the way to her rushing to his aid that night Orochimaru's goons set upon him. But she remained, stood by him even, ready to face whatever. Her love was pure, despite all of the mayhem surrounding him. To lose her would be to lose everything—everything that mattered.

Without a second thought he dropped the picture frame and left his workshop. As he made his way down the hall he could hear the faint sound of her keyboard and her pedagogical mutterings, but she stopped abruptly once he entered the living room, raising her head to regard him. He could see in her eyes that she was still simmering somewhat; whatever wrath she still had he would endure.

"Hinata…I want to—"

"You're hurt." She cut him off, quickly noticing the bloodstained cloth in his hand and springing into action. She clutched the hand and inspected it, all anger and animosity vanishing from her orbs before looking up at him with worry, "What did you do?"

"I…" she could feel his throat dry as he tried to speak. She disarmed him; the former heir apparent to the Uchiha dynasty, so easily and without even trying. He was still so use to dealing with the untrustworthy that her unabashed sincerity always outmaneuvered him. Perhaps whatever she had planned for Tayuya and Orochimaru was truly the only way to win. "I was a fool, Hinata."

"Huh?"

"For what I said today." He elaborated, his jaw clenching tightly as if subconsciously trying to keep his admission of his own shortcomings at bay. "I dismissed you as if—!"

The heiress's lips silenced him before his apology could truly begin, even if he may not have deserved her forgiveness so quickly, he would have never rested until he earned it. He would be sullen and awkward about everything if she left him to his devices. The kiss was brief but effective, leaving him stunned momentarily as she pulled away, "Don't make me wait for an apology next time. I may not be so forgiving."

He was frozen in disbelief, even as she left him and returned with a first aid kit. It wasn't until he felt the sting of the antiseptic that he snapped back to reality. She held his hand in her own and presented her work with a proud smile. "You're…too good to me, Hinata. I feel I don't deserve you sometimes."

"I've learned the difference between when you mean well, and when you're just well… mean." Her eyes left his and her face sunk slightly, clearly his harsh words bite still lingering.

"I'm sorry for what I said. I…it's hard, for me." He admitted, shedding the last vestiges of his tough shell to expose his vulnerability. He captured her cheek carefully in the palm of his hand, lifting her eyes to his, "It weighs heavily on me. Every second of everyday. The idea that I'll fail—that I'll fail you and doom you to a fate meant only for me."

Hinata had never heard him speak of their situation so direly, much less believing fate had anything to do with it. He always believed he was the master of his own destiny, and that confidence convinced others to believe it as well. If the world that knew him saw him so shaken; just as he believed, his fate would indeed be sealed. But she wouldn't let him fall, not now, not ever.

Her eyes took on a fierce glow as they locked with his own and she covered his hand with her own, the light from the setting sun refracting through the precise cuts on her ring, "I shoulder the same burden, the same fear. We won't fail. And even if fate decides that we do, I'll gladly face it with you, side by side."

For the first time in a long time, Sasuke smiled. The same smile he held when he stood beside Itachi so many years ago. She had given him hope for the future and so much more. If she could willing cast her lot in with whatever came their way, he could believe that there was light on the other side, as sure as there was light in her stunning eyes.

He embraced her tightly, so tightly she feared he would crush her if she didn't spontaneously meld with his body. "Thank you, Hinata."

"I have your love, anata. I don't need anything else."


Hanabi paced about her office, heels digging into the carpet, skirt straining against her legs with each stride, her delicate brow furrowed in thought. Hinata hadn't reached out to her like she said she would yesterday. It wasn't that she feared she had changed her mind about getting back in their father's good graces, she feared there was more going on in her increasingly enigmatic elder sisters' life than she let on. All signs pointed to Sasuke, but she could find nothing so devious in his dealings. Go figure.

The only link being Sarutobi's firm and even that was weak. What good was it to have your fiancée on a board of trustees that hated you if she had nothing to sway them in his favor? Even if he had conspired to put her on the board, he stood to gain little if anything at all.

She recalled the threats of violence against Sasuke she mentioned. Something insidious was a foot, and she'd be damned if she let it—

"Hanabi-san?" the small voice that invaded her space snapped her head in the direction to find similar eyes staring back at her. She didn't recognize her, but the eyes were enough to know she was family, probably a distant cousin some number of degrees removed. "Sorry for intruding but, Hiashi-sama would like to see you in his office."

"Of course. I'll be right there." she answered, taking a moment to run her hands through her hair and straighten her cream blouse before leaving the office with a notepad and her phone in hand. Impromptu meetings typically meant a laundry list of work. As she made her way through the halls, she could see another figure exiting Hiashi's office.

"Neji-kun? What are you doing here?"

"Hiashi-sama asked for my assessment on some recent business developments." he responded, his stoic façade firmly in place.

"I see. Nothing you'd care to share with me I suppose?" she asked, slyly looking for cracks in his mask. He was being cryptic, and even if it was privileged business discussions, she had a right to know what was going on in regard to the company slated to be hers one day.

"I can't say, that is best left to your father." His demeanor turning slightly grim before he brushed past her, "Excuse me, Hanabi-chan."

The Hyuugas were nowhere near as cagey as the Uchiha's when it came to business, it was unsettling being held at such a distance by her own family, first Hinata and now him. She shuddered to think what may have become of her father if the sudden coldness was contagious. She knocked on the doorframe to announced herself as she stood before him, "Otousan? You wanted to see me?"

"Come in and close the door, Hanabi." he ordered, gesturing vaguely with his free hand as he sifted through paperwork. Even as she did as he was told and sat down, he never met her eyes, too focused on whatever it was he was researching. She sat there in silence for some time, only the shuffle of paper filling the void.

"Is there something you wanted to talk to me about?"

"What can you tell me about Tomoe Capital?" he inquired finally, setting his documents aside and looking her in the eyes sternly. She stiffened at the sight, her was deathly serious it would seem this particular morning.

"I…I can't imagine I know more than you do of them, father." When her answer only succeeded in making his gaze harden on her even more, she swallowed nervously, "They remain the premier firm for those who are less risk adverse. Other than that, It...it seems virtually unremarkable, aside from the recent growth in clients. Shukaku Property Management is the largest to date. The growth came around the time the media gained wind of Sasuke's engagement to…Hinata."

"He profits from our name. From your sister." all but spat the CEO as he knotted his hands together, Hanabi couldn't tell if the gesture was meant to simulate how he desired to choke the man or if it was solely an angry tick. She could see what he was trying to do, incite her own anger and distrust on Sasuke before asking her to do her duty, for the family. He'd used the ploy countless times successfully, and with her sister's own security at stake she couldn't refuse, not now.

"I admit he concerns me as well." she responded, glancing down at her phone. She needed to talk to Hinata before their father took a more hands on approach. "Otousan, I may have a solution. Allow me to guide Hinata, make sure Sasuke isn't influencing her decisions."

"And if the Uchiha gains wind of your guidance, how can I be sure he won't outmaneuver you as he has in the past?"

"He won't. I will make sure Hinata knows that this is strictly between us. Between family." she assured staunchly hoping the brave face would be enough to convince him of her plan. With his blessing she only needed to keep Sasuke far away from Hinata and the work they were about to accomplish behind both their backs. Her sister wanted freedom; she would give it to her. Freedom from their father, and Sasuke's influence.

"Hm, do what you must then. Do not forget your other duties in the meantime." That was enough for Hanabi to rise from her seat and bow deeply, before leaving in a hurried fashion. If she was going to execute her plan, she'd need to act quickly. She'd uncover any and all machinations her sister's fiancé had planned and protect her no matter the cost.

The brunette paused briefly as she stood in the doorway of her office and rested her hand on the trim around it, Hinata's words of affection for that man reminding her of exactly what the cost may be. Would she forgive her if she ruined her marriage and blew up her life? It would be a risk they both would have to take.


Hinata sighed audibly, cradling her head in her hand as she pouted over student papers and financial documents. Sarutobi had sent a courier to the university with a fifty-page prospectus. Apparently, the board was to meet at the end of the month to discuss a new investment strategy. Coincidentally, this also aligned with a capstone review with Kurenai and the other department heads, regarding her thesis. Needless to say, she was beyond stressed. Numbers and theories began to blend together to the point she that she couldn't decipher whether to invest in Thorndike or to study Pfizer's take on pharmaceutical regression therapy.

She rubbed her temples and sighed, hoping to alleviate some of the tension. She knew things were going to get complicated and stressful, but she'd never anticipated anything like this. It made her slightly jealous of her fiancé, whom she had no doubt was sleeping in, if not lounging on the couch, or tinkering away in his workshop. This work was more suited for him, but he couldn't be caught anywhere near these documents.

"My burden to shoulder…" she muttered to herself ruefully as she turned another page, only to be bombarded by more numbers. That was the last straw, her furrowed brow could take no more. She shoved the papers aside and reached for her phone, if only to distract herself briefly.

She had grown accustom to leaving her phone on silent during lectures and most of the time actually. Her social media had long since been overrun by admirers she never wanted, and fangirls she never knew Sasuke had. They would send…things. All manner of things from unsolicited flattery, to lewd photos, to threats of violence for seducing Sasuke. Though she paid them little mind, focusing more on the several missed calls and a text from her sister. Her generation never did leave a voicemail, just a vague text:

"Call me. It's IMPORTANT!"

The distressing message seemed closer to more work rather than the reprieve she sought, but any distraction was an adequate one she supposed. She dialed away and released a sigh, making what little room she could for the next stressor.

Ring...Ring…Ring…

"It's about time you returned my calls and messages."

"Sorry, I've just been really busy today." she explained in a hushed tone as she peeked her head over her tiny cubicle to see if anyone was around. "Is something wrong?"

"That depends. Are you alone?"

"W-what?"

"Is Sasuke around?"

"No of course not. I'm at the university Hanabi. What's going on—why are you asking me these things?" Hinata was seriously beginning to worry about how cryptic her sister was being. She wasn't always forthcoming, but she was never this cagey.

"It's important we talk as soon as possible, preferably in person. I'm coming to pick you up."

"W-wait Hanabi! I have a lot of—"

Click.

Hinata released a throaty growl as she glared daggers into the device. Today was far from her day, and no one seemed to care, not even her sister. Angrily she stood up, noticing curious teachers aides and others eying her as she jammed papers into her attaché and grabbed her coat, marching out of the office. In her haste, and anger, she nearly missed the call of her name.

"Hinata!"

She stopped in her tracks and spun around, her current disposition on full display and ready to blow up on whomever else decided to mess with her today. Teeth bared and mouth half open in preparation to shout her lungs out, before she noticed the bright red lipstick of said person, "K-Kurenai-sensei!"

"You look like you're in a hurry, so I'll keep this brief." She explained as she waddled her way closer, with more difficulty than previously observed. "It's coming to that time."

"Time? What do you mean?"

"This little one is coming any day now. So, I feel it's only right that I hand the reins over to you while I'm on leave. I had hoped that maybe she'd wait until winter break but she's as stubborn as me it seems." The older woman could see her ward was already under some amount of stress, though that wasn't unnatural nowadays, her responsibilities rivaled her own with less than half the pay. "If it is too much, I can ask another adjunct or a professor."

"I-I really can't say right now sensei…I have a lot on my plate and I…" the heiress stammered her way through her refusal until she saw the look on her mentor's face. Oh, how she hated disappointing anyone. It was probably her most crippling flaw, and I had been for as long as she could remember. "I…will do it if I can."

"I understand. Whatever that fiancé of yours has done has worked wonders for you." She seemed with a bright smiled and a gentle squeeze of her shoulder. "Now, run off to your business.'

She nodded and returned the smile before quickly turning on her heels and noisily continuing her trek. By the time she finally made it to the campus quad she could see the dark sedan of her sister pull up. She was less of a spectacle compared to Sasuke, but her arrival garnered attention all the same. Hinata entered the rear passenger seat of the vehicle wordlessly, slamming the door shut to make her displeasure known to her younger sibling also in the back.

"I get it, you're pissed. But onee-chan—"

"What has father put you up to this time?" she asked sharply, her eyes focused on the passing buildings more than her sisters shocked expression. When no answer came, she continued, "What other reason would you have to seek me out?"

Hanabi was taken aback by the uncharacteristic coldness from her elder sister. Sasuke's influence ran deeper than she expected. Neither her father or her own fears were unfounded it seemed. "Father, he…he only wants control. I'm here because I'm worried—worried about you, Hinata."

Hinata pursed her lips and tightened her hold on her attaché, fighting the urge to drop her tough façade. "Where are you taking me?"

"My apartment, somewhere we can talk things through."

"Somewhere we can talk without Sasuke?" she returned, finally facing her with hard eyes. She knew this was the true reason she was attempting to solicit something from her under the guise of concern. "Why do you despise him so much?"

"You hardly know the man! I've dealt with him and his kind longer than you've been engaged. He can't be trusted."

"I trust him more than I do my own family sometimes." she spat in turn, the vitriol of it surprising even herself. It may have been the foul mood the day itself had jostled her into, but even in anger she spoke from her heart. "I know he loves me…that's enough."

"But…" Hanabi opened and closed her mouth on instinct, wanting nothing more than to shout that she needed her sister hear her. To have her back—the Hinata who was always slightly awkward but sweet and kind all the same. "Does our love mean nothing to you now? Does mine?"

Hinata's lips parted at the heartfelt appeal, now understanding how Sasuke felt when he knew he had unjustly been too harsh. Her eyes slipped from Hanabi's as she shook her head at her own foolishness. "Of course, it means something to me…I just…"

"You're building walls, onee-chan. This business will do that to you." she said solemnly, placing a comforting hand on her sisters' lap, a soft smile when their identical eyes finally met, "But you don't need to keep me out. Not now, not ever."

She could feel tears well in the corners of her eyes as she stared soundlessly at her sister. But they weren't tears of sadness or regret. They were tears of pride. Hanabi had matured so much in their time apart, matured in the way she never could under their father's oppression. She admired her resilience—envied it even, and it was exactly what she needed the most right now. A confidant, a friend.

"I'm sorry…" Hinata sniffled and wiped her eyes before the crying began in earnest, her lips finally curling in a diminutive smile. "Thank you, Hanabi-chan."

"What else are sisters for?" she returned jokingly, feeling the need to lighten the somber mood. Soon enough they arrived at her sprawling tower of an apartment building, Hinata wasn't surprised to see her sister surely lived as lavishly as Sasuke, perhaps even more so. She followed as they exited the car and entered the opulent lobby, it certainly seemed stuffier. Once they finally ascended to the penthouse, Hinata's suspicions were confirmed. She had to contain herself, lest she marvel at the sheer size. It was bigger than Sasuke's even! Glossy hardwood floors, sleek marble countertops, A kitchen that rivaled commercial kitchens, top of the line entertainment systems, and a whole second floor to boot. If she wasn't as wealthy as Sasuke, she certainly was flashier.

"If you don't close your mouth a bug might fly inside." chided the brunette as she laid her belongings on the living room coffee table.

"You live here? All by yourself?" wondered the elder sister aloud.

"Well yeah, naturally. But I need the space for get-togethers and the like." she explained somewhat defensively. She waited for Hinata to settle onto the couch before joining her, still unsure of how best to go about her plan.

"So, what did you need to talk to me about? You said you were worried."

Hanabi could hear her heartbeat in her ears, she'd only get one chance at this. "I…I know that you're new to this world, and I can see the responsibilities are weighing on you. So, I wanted to offer help, in anyway I can."

Hinata thought on the proposition, carefully scanning her sister for ulterior motives, just as Sasuke did in nearly every encounter. Though she wasn't nearly as good as him yet, and she had been genuine in her concern for her wellbeing. "That's sweet Hanabi-chan, but I don't think I can talk to you about that sort of thing."

"Nonsense, I'm an impartial party. What do I care about what bunch of old men in suits are thinking?" it wasn't her best defense, but she was praying it would be good enough to at least get her foot in the door.

"But you do work for father, and he and Sarutobi-sama are close. I—I wouldn't want to get you in trouble over me."

"Forget about father. I'm here for you Hinata, that's all."

"Well…" the eldest heiress pursuers her lips briefly before turning her attention to her attaché and pulling out a thick stack of documents. "I suppose maybe you can help me understand some of this. I can't ask Sasuke for help, and it's been ages since…"

"Since father's drill instructions, I remember them." she finished, the memory painful for her as well. Just because she survived the rigors of Hiashi's parenting didn't mean she escaped unscathed. "Let me take a look."

The brunette scanned the documents broadly, doing her best to show no emotion at the sheer scale of what Sarutobi appeared to be proposing. This was a windfall of knowledge indeed, and in the wrong hands could wreak havoc on the markets themselves. Sasuke himself could…

"So, what do you think?" piped Hinata, noticing the intense concentration in her sister's eyes.

"It's a…fairly standard prospectus, a few caveats here and there in the proposal." she pointed out, making sure to explain it to her for future reference. Though giving her a refresher course wasn't what she came here for. Hanabi could tell now that Hinata had told the truth, she wasn't Sasuke's puppet, at least not a dangerous one by any means. Now all she had to do was instruct her how to forge her own way in the business.

"Does it look good? I mean, does it seem like a good deal?" asked Hinata, still shaky on how she could smartly support the proposal. The last thing she needed was to seem like an airhead when she arrived in the boardroom. A pretty face with the right surname.

"Well, from what I can see it appears safe. A well-balanced portfolio with an attractive return. But it's lacking somewhat."

"Lacking? What do you—" suddenly she could hear the sound of vibrations coming from her purse. As she reached inside, all it took was a simple touch of the device to realize the sound wasn't coming from her phone. Her face dropped and her breath hitched in her throat. All she could muster was a shaky whisper, "Excuse m-me. I-I need to take this."

Hanabi watched as her sister grabbed her purse and quickly shuffled off as deep into her home as she figured she needed to be to be out of earshot. While that was odd, what truly alarmed the brunette was the fact that the phone she knew to be her sisters was left on the couch. Her thoughts wandered to her encounter with Sasuke at his apartment, he had all but barricaded himself in with a hallway of guards, and Hinata had mentioned threats…was she mixed up in it as well?

Her curiosity got the best of her eventually as she skulked her way down the hallway towards the hushed sounds of a one-sided conversation. She stopped just outside the closed door of one of her bathrooms and pressed her ear to it.

"Now isn't the best time…c-can't this wait?" she whispered, nervously running her fingers through her hair as her reflection stared back at her in the mirror.

"Listen, princess. You agreed to this. Now it's time to play your part."

"I…Okay. What do I have to do?"

"Good girl. Orochimaru knows old man Sarutobi his having a meeting soon. A vote on a new fiscal initiative. He wants you to oppose the proposal."

"…I can do that I suppose."

"Oh, we're not done yet. You'll need to present a counter proposal. One more…suitable for my boss."

"I can't! I-I can't possibly do that." she exclaimed, softening her voice halfway through. She was panicking now. She knew devious things would be expected of her, Sasuke had made that abundantly clear when he'd admonished her for agreeing to be their patsy, but this… "Even if I do this, there's no guarantee they'll accept it. I-I hardly have a say in the final decision."

"That isn't my problem, it's yours. So, meet me at my place in one hour to pick up the documents. And come alone this time."

"But—" before she could attempt a rebuttal the line went dead. The small flip phone fell to her side as she stared at the stranger in the mirror. This wasn't her, none of it was. She wasn't a liar, or a deceitful person. She was fading away, bit by bit, piece by piece, and she didn't have the will, or the stomach for it like her sister.

"Hinata? Is everything alright?" called Hanabi through the door after she could hear no more coming from the other side for some time.

The heiress quickly splashed some water on her face and composed herself before answering the door with a smile, "Sorry, Hanabi-chan. It was just work."

"I hope nothing bad." she replied, recognizing the false smile on her sisters face instantaneously. It was the face she used to hide her pain from their father.

"No, nothing at all. I just…" Hinata's opal eyes fell from her sister and down to the floor. She contemplated telling the truth, it would free her from the unnatural prison she had put herself in, but it would betray the promise of secrecy she swore to Sasuke. "I need to go, something's come up that I should see to."

Hanabi knew she was hiding something. Whoever she was speaking to was pressuring her into something she didn't want to do, she could discern as much from the one-sided conversation she heard. But she couldn't press her about, she would surely push her away again. "I understand. You're an important woman now. But I hope it doesn't stop you from being my sister, as well."

"O-of course not! That will never change, Hanabi-chan." she assured, her smile taking on a more genuine affect.

"I'm glad. But you're in a rush. I can give you a ride if you'd like?" offered the brunette, hoping that maybe she could eek a bit more information from her.

"No, thank you. I'll just have Hanazaki-kun pick me up."

Hanabi followed her back to the living room as she quickly collected her things and made for the front door. She was shocked when Hinata paused with her hand in the doorknob, as if hesitant to leave. "Onee-chan?"

"You said the proposal was lacking…what is it missing?"

"Risk." she answered simple, noting how her sister's brow furrowed in confusion. "The best proposal is one the offers an attractive enough reward with just the right amount of risk. No risk, no reward."

Hinata thought on her advice briefly, attempting to weigh the risks and rewards of the endeavor she was about to embark on. She had always been quite risk adverse, defying her father and choosing a life outside the family business being the riskiest thing she'd ever done in her life, second only to falling in love with Sasuke. But now her life was nothing but risk, and the only reward she saw in the foreseeable future was an unhindered life with him. That alone was all the reward she needed. "I see. Thank you, for everything Hanabi-chan."

She didn't reply right away, only throw herself at the taller woman and capture her in a hug. She held her close. She may never tell her what troubles she had or was having, she still needed her to know that she was there for her, no matter what, "Take care of yourself, alright?"

"Of course…" she whispered in return her heart clenching in her chest. She knew. She had to. She was a smart girl; some would say smarter than herself even. But their sisterly bond kept her questioning at bay, for the time being at least.

They parted ways, waving goodbye as the elevator doors closed on the elder Hyuuga sister. Hanabi was quick to retrieve her phone once she was finally alone, dialing a number on pure memory.

"Yes, Hanabi-san?"

"Prepare the car. I need to go somewhere." she answered seriously as she gathered a few of her things.

"Yes, of course. Where will we be going?"

"We'll just have to wait and see I suppose." she sighed, finally leaving her penthouse and taking the elevator to the parking garage where her driver waited.

"Tō-kun, what we're going to do stays between us and only us, understood?" she explained as they slowly pulled out of the garage and onto the street.

"H-hai, Hanabi-san…what exactly are we doing?" The thin man could hear the seriousness in his employer's voice, and it unnerved him somewhat.

As they pulled around a corner, they could see Hinata being greeted by her bodyguard in front of the apartment building. It was odd that she hadn't called Sasuke for a ride, the tabloids had a field day with their near daily rendezvous'. Wherever she was going, Sasuke was probably meant to be kept in the dark.

She watched as she entered the vehicle and slowly pulled out into traffic. She had to know what was going on and It was now or never. "Follow my sister."

And follow they did. Closely, but not too closely, Hanabi citing the possibility of Hinata's body man choking him out if he suspected they were being tailed. They followed as the large SUV drove around seemingly in circles, heightening Hanabi's paranoia that they'd been found out, that, or Hinata was being elusive about their destination with her protector. He reported to Sasuke after all, and the seeds of distrust had taken root in her. Eventually they took a more direct path, ultimately leading to the parking lot of a seemingly dilapidated apartment complex. They stayed just around the corner as they watched the car park and remain stationary, until her sister emerged.

Silently they watched as she stood outside and sized up the building with her attaché in hand, inhaling deeply before her breath was expelled in a visible mist. Hanabi could she the hesitance in her sister's demeanor as she approached the door and pushed the buzzer before disappearing inside. She was gone for some time, during which Hanabi was wise to take note of the address for future reference if need be. What could she be doing? Was it a clandestine meeting with shady forces? Was she cheating on Sasuke? No, of course not! Hinata may have been acting suspiciously but she wasn't the type to have a steamy affair before she was even well and truly married.

Finally, she emerged, her face nearly as pale as her eyes. The two watched as the SUV pulled out of its spot soon enough, quickly passing them by without hesitation or a glance.

"Shall we continue following, Hanabi-san?" Asked the driver, peering back at her through the rearview mirror.

"No. There's nothing more to see." She admitted somewhat sadly, she had hoped to at least put a face or a name to the devious forced tugging on her elder sisters' strings, but alas. "Let's go home."

As they left the scene, her attention turned to her phone as she drafted a message:

"Konohamaru-kun, would you mind looking up an address for me? A client of mine neglected to give me the unit number. Thanks."


Hinata was shaking somewhat as she slowly made the walk to her front door, ignoring the greetings of the men on guard in her trance. The parting words Tayuya left her with sent her body into a state of quiet panic.

"Orochimaru-sama deals with you and only you now, your fiancé, can't be trusted any longer. So, keep it to yourself, Hyuuga."

Another secret she was forced to keep from those closest to her. The kind of secret that eroded her very sense of values with every moment that passed. And seeing the concerned look on Sasuke's face when she crossed the threshold into their home made it all the more painful to lie to.

"I was beginning to worry when I hadn't heard from you." he greeted, casually rising from the sofa before approaching. He seemed to be adjusting to his new "working from home" lifestyle quite well, wearing his comfortable sweats and no shirt. Under any other circumstances she would have found him very desirable—surely what he was going for, but all she could feel was dread. He quirked an eye when he was close enough to get a better look at her, "Hinata? Is everything alright?"

"It's…nothing Sasuke-kun." She lied, quickly brushing past him and towards the bedroom before he delved any deeper into her mind. "I'm just t-tired is all. I was so busy studying I forgot to eat."

It was the first time she lied to him, and even though he had been the first to slight her in that manner, it made it no easier for her. She could still feel her heart thudding in her chest as she dropped her attaché by the bed and shakily shrugged out of her blazer. Even in the darkness of the room she could sense him standing in the doorway, his dark eyes trained on her critically. Hinata didn't bother peering over her shoulder, her hands clenching into fists as she prepared for his astute round of inquisitive questioning. But it never came, and she never heard him silently step closer to her. She only felt his warmth encompass her, and if only for a moment, her mental malaise disappeared.

"When you're ready, I'm here koishii." The soft tickle of his voice in her ear steadied the beat of her heart and relaxed her entire body. It was his acceptance, his understanding that pacified her. He knew she was going through more than study and hunger induced stress, and he undoubtedly had an inkling about what truly was the cause. But if he couldn't outright aid her, he'd be the support she needed, whenever she needed it.

"I know I said I'd do this alone if need be, but…" her voice wavered slightly as she leaned into his arms. She wished she could absorb his confidence into herself, and what little she had didn't seem to be enough, "What if I can't?"

Sasuke chuckled lowly, receiving a sharp look from her. It was understandable she took his light-hearted sound unfavorably. He paid it little mind however, only spun her around and looked down into her moon colored orbs, "You're an Uchiha in all but name, Hinata. You're more capable than you think."

"Maybe the name would help a little?"

His chuckle returned, joined by her own jovial sounds. He brushed a loose tendril of hair from her face as he leaned in and kissed her waiting lips softly. "Soon enough. In fact, I took some time to bring us closer to that day."

"Y-you've been planning our wedding?" she asked, clearly surprised he had done more than lounge around and pour over spreadsheets all day.

"The easy things mostly. Ino has agreed to handle the floral arrangements, and I've made a few appointments to tour some venues." he explained nonchalantly, his lips curling upwards at the light in her eyes.

"It's sweet that you're taking it so seriously. Sorry I haven't been much help lately…" she apologized softly, unable to shake the feeling that she was failing him somehow. Despite all of his assertion that she was enough for him, she always felt as if there was more should be doing for him—for them. "When are the appointments? I can—"

Sasuke pressed a finger to her lips to quiet her, gently seating her on the edge of the bed. She had settled down somewhat now, but she was already adding to her duties. She was a strong woman, a little headstrong at times but, stronger than she knew or let on. "We'll worry about that later. You deserve a day of rest, if not a few hours at the least."

While she agreed, it wasn't until she realized his hands trailing down to the top of her skirt. Clearly, he had more planned for her "rest". "Sasuke-kun, I really am tired…"

"Then let me do all of the work." he cooed suggestively, getting down on his knees between her legs. Even her weary mind knew what he was proposing, and it was quite enticing enough, but still she had her reservations.

"Sasuke-kun, maybe we can—ah!" but it was too late, during her musings he had already skillfully peeled off the cloth barrier to her nethers and had begun devouring her.

"Relax, Hinata."


The opal eyed heiress listened to the steady beat of her lovers' heart as he slept, wishing she were able to join him in his repose for more than an hour or two at a time. Despite his euphoria inducing ministrations, her mind remained restless. Carefully she raised herself from his hold and sat up in the bed. She stared down at his peaceful face, briefly wondering how he could sleep so soundly with all of the doom and gloom hanging over bother their heads.

Slowly she swung her legs over the side of the bed, careful to not disturb him, before retrieving her robe and forgotten attaché. If she was to be cursed with sleepless, she would be productive at the very least. Silently she padded her way down the hall to the living room, turned on the lights, and went to the couch. She could see Sasuke's own mishmash of documents scattered about, some financial some more marital in nature. It brought a smile to her face knowing he refused to be idle in the face of disaster, optimistic even. If he could to it, then she could do it too.

Though she stopped momentarily, a delicate eyebrow perking up when she spotted an interesting header among Sasuke's work. Oto Wealth Management. And odd name to be sure, and one she'd never heard Sasuke mention, not even in passing. For him to personally be doing research they must have been a high-profile client.

She cleared a spot for her own work and returned to the daunting task. Hanabi had claimed the initial proposal was too safe, the rewards satisfactory but paltry by comparison to a riskier venture. Her mind turned to the forgotten documents Tayuya handed her, they were to be her new proposal to the board, her risk to assume in Orochimaru's name.

She lined the two proposals up with one another, brow furrowed, and eyes focused keenly on the text. If she was to convince the board that Orochimaru's financial strategy was more beneficial to the organization, she would need to know it inside and out, and swallow the sickening feeling she knew she would undoubtedly have.

Thoughts of imminent sickness aside she forged ahead, taking notes as she went along. Orochimaru's prospectus was certainly riskier by her assessment this far, but she had yet to see what he gained from this strategy. Did he intend to bankrupt the company with this venture and ruin her name and Sasuke's by extension? Perhaps he simply wanted to steer the company down a path that would put the most money in his pocket. It was times like these she wished she could access Sasuke's mind to better know their shared enemy.

She could hear the sound of her fiancés footsteps as he called her name groggily. Quickly, she grabbed her work and stuffed it back into its rightful place, Sasuke was to have no hand in this according to Tayuya, and despite her better judgement, it was probably for the best. She made sure to complete the smokescreen by placing a few of the venue material's he had been researching in front of her.

"Hinata? You're up early…or late. Is something wrong?" he asked as he emerged from the hallway and into the living room, still rubbing the sleep from his eyes.

"Ne, Sasuke-kun. I just couldn't sleep, so I decided to look a few things over." she explained calmly, surprised at how easily her second lie came.

"Hn. I suppose it was naïve of me to believe you'd take it easy." He joined her on the couch, lazily resting his head on her shoulder. She stroked his hair lovingly as they stared down at the mass of papers scattered on the table. "What's troubling you, Hinata?"

"You know I can't talk to you about it, Sasuke-kun…" her fingers left his hair and knotted in her lap as the nervousness crept back into her system.

"So don't." he responded simply, raising his head to look her in the eyes.

"What?"

"Ask me something without specifics. What's the harm in that?" she stared at him for what seemed like a long time, doing her best to decipher whether he was truly trying to help, or just get information out of her.

"I suppose…as long as you don't try to intervene."

"You have my word." he promised, knowing how seriously she took her non-disclosure agreement.

Her brow furrowed as she thought about how she could phrase her dilemma without giving any pertinent information away. "How do you convince people that a good idea, is actually a bad idea?"

Sasuke quirked an eye at this, earning himself a warning glare when she could see the wheels turning in his head. He sighed heavily and leaned into the couch, staring up at the ceiling as he pondered the question, "Deception…is based in trust, believe it or not. The best way is to earn that trust, use it to your advantage."

"But how?" she asked leaning forward slightly as if to urge him on.

"Depends, everyone has their desires, fears, weaknesses. Those are your best tools." She watched as his voice hardened slightly his eyes narrowing. He was unveiling the tricks of his trade, delving into the dark dealings he so fiercely tried to keep from her. "It's like a con at the end of the day. You have to make them believe the truth you present them, is the only truth, and that it was their idea to begin with."

"Their idea? But why would I let them take the credit?"

Sasuke leaned forward with a small frown on his face. Despite her desire to stop him from deciphering her question and ascertaining who and what she was talking about, he couldn't help himself. She wanted to convince the board of something contrary to their current belief, no easy task, he'd failed several times in the past. "Most men, and some women, value their pride above all else, neither money nor duty is enough for them."

"Does that include you as well, Sasuke-kun?" she asked, her voice an interesting mix of genuine curiosity and playfulness.

"Tch. I'm not like the rest, you know that Hinata." She couldn't help but smile at his candor, though if anything, it proved he was no different than those she was trying to fool. He just usually hid it better. But not when he was with her. "But I've given you enough secrets for one night, come back to bed."

"You go on ahead, I'll be there in a minute." she leaned in and planted a soft kiss in his lips before he rose from his seat and left her. She needed some time to internalize her newfound information. This task she was given was once Sasuke's, the only way she could succeed is if the approached it like he would, if not similarly. After all, he said she was an Uchiha in all but name.

Sasuke made his way back to the bedroom, a small frown coming to his lips. She had lied to him, whether to protect him, or to prove she was capable, she had done it regardless. Though, it didn't hurt. They were playing a dangerous game, and she had put herself at the forefront willingly.

He closed the door as he entered the bedroom and sat at the edge of the bed I. The darkness, his hand blindly reaching for his phone. Hinata wanted to keep him out of her dealings with the board and possibly Tayuya as well, but he couldn't sit idly by while the future was shaped around him. The blinding light of the device illuminating his face as he drafted a message to Karin.

"I need a meeting with Orochimaru. Discreetly."

As he sent it, Hinata reappeared, climbing between the sheets and gliding her delicate fingers along his bare back, urging him to do the same. They were both living secret lives, and somewhat unhappily at that. With foes, both known and unknown all around them, they had nothing but each other. The hope of a better life on the other side the only thing keeping them going. The only question was, for how long?


The days seemed to pass by quickly in the lead up to Hinata's board meeting. She dreaded it day in and day out, but it was beginning to get easier. She could feel herself getting numb to receiving the occasional call from Tayuya, asking for an update. Despite the briefness of their talks she could tell that she too was growing anxious. All she wished for was to be done with the devious woman, and her employer.

The heiress reached into her peacoats pocket as she and her driver pulled up to a red light; it was another late night of study at the university and she needed to give Sasuke some word of her pending arrival. He'd since grown impatient with her secrecy, no longer amenable to her absence. Arguments and fights had become standard fare for their day to day activities. Her very demeanor shifting to that of her cold fiancés. She could no longer be sweet around him, the unspoken darkness in their lives turning them both into morose creatures.

As she rummaged in the pockets depths for her phone she stumbled upon a long-forgotten piece of paper at the bottom. She pulled the tiny finding and eyed it curiously, the rushed scrawling almost illegible from the passage of time.

Thank you.

Her heart fluttered at the words, and then sank in realization. It had been the secret note Kin left her with weeks ago. The troubled woman seemed like an afterthought in light of her other responsibilities, but no less inconsequential. It humbled Hinata to remember that more was at stake than simply hers or Sasuke's reputation, never mind their relationship and future.

"We're making a stop before going home." she ordered suddenly, taking Hanazaki by surprise.

"Of course, Hinata. It is getting late however…Uchiha-san—"

"He can wait. This is important." She was in no rush to return home to a less than welcoming greeting, nor was she in the mood for another fight. Hanazaki nodded numbly and did as she said, knowing firsthand how contentious the homestead had become, so much so that those guarding the hall had even began taking sides.

The stocky man narrowed his eyes as they approached the building, his gaze turning to his ward with a slightly worried stare. "Hinata…is this wise?"

"No risk, no reward." she responded, wasting no time to leave the vehicle. "I won't be long."

She entered the building an ascended the steps just as she had before, she hadn't considered what may transpire if Tayuya herself was present, but she found that she didn't truly care. What more could she do to demean or antagonize her?

She knocked on the door several times, hearing the faint sounds of shuffling within before returning to silence. She knocked again, this time more forcefully, "It's me Kin, Hinata."

The door opened slightly as she peeked through it, her dark eyes marred with deep rings, she clearly hadn't been sleeping. Carefully she undid the numerous locks, finally allowing for them to face one another. The opal eyed woman sighted the bat she clutched in her hand curiously, was she afraid of her, or something else? "Tayuya isn't here…w-what do you want?"

"I came to talk to you." Hinata did her best to soften her tone, lest she take it as an order. Her keen observation skills had already determined Kin had a deep disdain for authority figures, at least all others besides Tayuya. "Can I come in?"

The hark haired woman hesitated briefly before gesturing with her weapon for the heiress to enter. The smells of stale smoke and spilled alcohol were apparent as she stepped inside the messy domicile. She shut the door and methodically went about fastening each lock before dropped the bat and turning to address her unexpected guests, "So, where's your boyfriend?"

"Fiancé." she corrected her mouth twisting into a slight frown as the words passed her lips. There was a time when the words brought joy to her, but now she felt somewhat remorseful for what their relationship was quickly devolving into. "And he's home."

"Whatever." she dismissed, brushing past her and retuning to the couch, lighting a fresh cigarette. She exhaled harshly and narrowed her eyes at the stoic Hyuuga. Something about her eyes, they were hauntingly unnerving. "So, why are you here?"

"Because of your note." she answered simply, producing the piece of paper when she looked at her quizzically. She took the seat beside her, noting how she put some more distance between them. "How have you been?"

Kin's mouth opened to respond but hung open when the dismissive quip she prepared caught in her throat. She scoffed and turned away from the women, "F-fine, I suppose."

"Good. Did you enjoy the food I left?"

"It was good yeah. Even Tayuya liked it." she answered, feeling herself relax slightly at the soft tone of her voice and grateful smile. She stiffened at the sight, narrowing her eyes at the simple gesture, "What are you trying to pull?"

Hinata tilted her head to the side innocently, "I just want to know how you're doing, Kin-chan."

"Don't you "Kin-chan" me. You're up to something." she accused harshly, furiously stamping her cigarette out in frustration and leaning towards her would-be interrogator. Her lips curved into a smirk when she flinched slightly at the sudden shift in proximity. "Why are you really here, and not with your precious fiancé?"

It was the most pointed question that had been asked that evening. And quite frankly, she didn't know how to answer it. Why was she here? What had drawn her to pick a stranger's companionship over Sasuke's? Was it truly out of concern for her wellbeing? Did she dread having another contentious evening with the gloomy love of her life? She could only muster a weak whisper, "I…I don't know. I don't know what I'm doing anymore. I—I should go."

As she rose to leave, the dark-haired woman grabbed her by the wrist, stopping her in her tracks. Kin could see the look in her eyes, she'd seen it many times when she peered in the mirror on her worst days. Her smug smirk had disappeared, and a look of sorrow replaced it, a look of recognition. "You're lost…scared. Ne, Hinata?"

It was the first time she used her name, the first time she perhaps hadn't looked at her as a do-gooding interloper. The heiress lips parted in surprise at her counterpart's tactful analysis. But she was right. "I feel…alone. Like I'm—"

"Trapped." Added Kin, unconsciously scratching her arm as her skin began to crawl at the unfamiliar feeling of kinship. The urge to grab a baggie and suppress the feelings came to mind, but she fought against it, her hands balling into tight fists in her lap. "Like no one and nothing can help you escape."

"Yeah…" she whispered; her eyes downcast to her own lap. To think she intended to help this girl, but now she was the one aiding her in her time of need. "But you have Tayuya. She cares about you, you know?"

"Tch, she means well but she can't help. Neither can Sasuke, ne?" Hinata could only nod in agreement. Despite her occasional attitude, with proper training, Kin would've been a decent therapist had she ever pursued it. "That's the problem with having close relationships, no matter how close they get, they always end up feeling miles away. Until they're gone, forever."

Hinata noticed the subtle shift to a more somber tone, following her hand as it covered what appeared to be a slightly worn tattoo on her wrist. She hadn't noticed it before; she bore enough emotional scars to mask those she chose to willingly display. "What does it mean?"

Kin's face sank, brow furrowing as if fighting an invisible battle within herself she had lost a thousand times. Her slender fingers twitching against the fading ink on her skin before revealing the image of two slightly tarnished silver bells attached by a violet string, the names Zaku and Dosu printed below each. "A reminder…of what I had and lost."

She was raw and exposed now, the demons of her past and present on full display. She told her of how she once knew joy and the comforts of friendship, and even a modicum of fame. Once upon a time, Tsuchi Kin was a promising idol prepped for stardom in the already competitively fierce market. Hells Bells is what they called themselves, a band paying homage to classic American heavy metal. She detailed how the pressures of success always threatened to crush her, but she survived it all with the aid of her two closest friends and bandmates. They offered the support and structure she needed to stay grounded; they were a team. Until they were led astray by the impending wealth and fame down a darker path. The drugs tore a path of destruction across their lives, eventually causing a rift between them and their futures. Zaku was the first. Accidental overdose they ruled it. Then Dosu, not even a week later. Suicide by overdose.

"And I was prepared to the same." The dark-haired woman's eyes were distant and glassed over as if reliving every memory in real-time as she told her tale, but she didn't shed a tear. "But Tayuya stopped me…saved me when I tried to—tried to end it, in the bathroom of one of her businesses of all places."

"I'm sorry Kin-chan, for everything you've been through." Hinata knew it was a token gesture, even as she rested a comforting hand on her own. She could feel the callouses and scarring on her fingertips, each undoubtedly having a story of their own. Initially she sought the woman out to distract herself from the crumbling world around her, a means to help, to control something and do some good while she still had the capacity for it. To think she would in fact be the insightful one helping Hinata gain some perspective on her own problems. "But I'm glad."

A halfhearted chuckle broke free from her throat as she turned to look at the woman. It had been years since she spoke to anyone about her troubled past, but she felt almost compelled to share it with this stranger. Maybe she saw part of herself in her. She was at that pivotal moment where the turmoil within could make or break a person. "Tay just didn't want a washed up "never-was" of an idol overdosing in her establishment. Bad for business."

Hinata shook her head in rejection of that cynical notion, a smile returning to her visage as she squeezed her hand tight, "No, I'm glad that you shared this with me. I'm glad I have a friend I can talk to, and I hope you feel the same."

A blush came to Kin's pale cheeks as her lips parted in shock. While she had always considered Tayuya a friend, their relationship had always been contentious to a fault, a harmful and helpful symbiosis. But this seemed more…positive in nature. They couldn't be from more different backgrounds, and yet they had some sort of kindred bond already. "Yeah…I guess I am too."

"Good. I should be going, Sasuke…"

"I know. You go. You know where to find me if you want to talk, or whatever."

"Here, let me give you my number. Call me anytime, ok?"

"Yeah, if I ever need some back up vocals for a jam session, I'll give you a ring. You'll be a rocker in no time." She proclaimed with a cheeky smirk.

The two parted ways, sharing a final hug even. As she descended the steps, Hinata couldn't help but smile, feeling as if the weight on her shoulders had somehow become easier to bare. The responsibility remained, but she had someone she could go to who had seen the bottom and lived to tell the tale. And she didn't do it alone, and neither would she.

Though her joy had diminished slightly by the time she ascended the elevator to the home she shared with Sasuke. The hour was late, much later than usual, and she never knew what he would be like when she arrived. Sometimes he ran hot, and sometimes cold. She took a deep breath as she pressed her key into the door and turned, pushing into the penthouse, and into complete silence. It was eerie really, usually she would find him on the couch, or in the kitchen, but there were hardly any signs of such activity. She removed her heels and softly walked through the dark flat in search of life, the idea of Sasuke vanishing slowly filling her with dread. Had he gotten fed up with having an absentee fiancée and left her for a night of drunken debauchery to teach her a lesson? No, she couldn't think like that.

"Sasuke-kun? She called as she opened the door to her last bastion of hope, their bedroom, not knowing if she'd find him in bed with another woman or in the bed at all. She could see the silhouette of something beneath the sheets shifting against the darkness. For a moment, her heart skipped a beat at the sight of bare flesh as the sheets gave way and the figure beneath sat up. "I…I'm home."

Her ghostly eyes captured and froze him still as they stared at each other in silence for what seemed like an eternity, neither knowing if the other was predator or prey that evening. She could see the fatigue in his eyes; perhaps he had waited for her all night until he couldn't any longer. But the astute heiress could see it was not solely physical tiredness, but mental as well.

Without a word she dropped her attaché and began disrobing little by little. Blazer, blouse, skirt, until she stood taut in only her undergarments before him, the dim light of the moon spilling in from underneath the curtains and scattering across her body. Still he said nothing, not even as she slowly approached and climbed into the bed beside him.

"You're home later than usual." he spoke into the darkness, his eyes more fixated on the ceiling than the woman beside him. The tone of his voice even taking him by surprise, his nose wrinkling in disgust at the realization. He sounded like his father. Haughty, judgmental, dismissive.

"I saw a friend after work." she answered, her eyes keenly trained on the side of his face in search of any changes. There was a silence that prevailed, hanging in the air like a thick fog. The standoffish nature of their relationship was reaching a boiling point, and it could either end in a quiet storm or raucous catastrophe. And she could take it no longer. She yearned for the love of the man who broke her out of her shell and showed her that she could be whoever she desired. The man who had stolen her first kiss and promised to walk beside her as a partner. "I…I don't want this. I don't want this to be our lives, Sasuke-kun"

"It doesn't have to be." he responded flatly, his eyes finally meeting hers. Despite the darkness in them—the sheer bottomlessness of them, she could see his own pain. He had always been alone, even when he was with Sakura, he suffered alone. But he knew his struggles had become her own and vice versa. "You can have your secrets, Hinata. I never wanted this life for you—for us. But I knew this world could someday become a part of you, just as it's a part of me."

"I don't want these secrets. I want you—I want us to see this through together." she declared heatedly, resting her cool palm on his chest. His heart was beating madly, betraying his stoic demeanor. He was scared. Scared he may have lost her already, that she had become a stranger to him once again. A stranger with his secrets and enough tools at her disposal to be every bit his equal. He feared that she, the woman he loved, would become his foe eventually. "I'd rather fail with you by my side, than succeed without you."

She had said as much in the past, but so had he. In the darkness they had lost sight of one another, seeing only the waning trust between them. She knew he had lied to her, just as he knew she had. He knew she had been in contact with Tayuya, as well as her sister. She knew that he had been working on something behind the scenes with this Oto Wealth Management. For all they knew they were working against one another. Sasuke frowned at the realization of his own folly, he saw her secrecy as a threat, and tried to insulate himself in any way he could. But he had looked at it the wrong way.

He never put much stock in other people's opinions, but he cared deeply when Hinata was involved. He was the devil and she the angel, and despite their personal relationship, the world demanded they be at odds with one another. They got that request, turned them against one another, but it was time they turned it against them.

"Then we face it together, no matter the outcome." His mind had already started plotting and planning to turn their premarital relationship rockiness in their favor, but the look in her eyes reminded him of the very real situation before them. They were not okay, and they would need to work on it. "No more secrets."

"Thank you, Sasuke-kun." Hinata all but broke out in tears as she embraced him. Finally, they could return to some semblance of normalcy, even if she had long forgotten life before the mysterious man first appeared in her classroom. But now, with an honest understanding, they would no longer be each other's enemy, but their greatest ally.


Hinata stood at the front door of the commercial building Konoha Asset Management called home, fist wrapped tightly around her attaché handle and stuff as a board. Sasuke told her to make a show of it, be the board member none of them expect her to be. Own the room. So, she had forgone arriving in a clandestine manner through the garage and decided to show her face for all to see.

"Shall I wait for you, Hinata?" asked her steadfast companion standing by her side as the winters chill whipped around them.

"No, Hanazaki-kun. This may take some time." She furrowed her against the cold, doing her best to mimic the mannerisms she picked up from her fiancé. She had studied, and practiced day in and day out for near a month in anticipation for this day. Her personal passions had suffered enough for it, as had her relationship with Sasuke. If she failed now, there would be no coming back, for either of them. "I'll call you when I need you."

"Hai." He had seen the change in her as well, her attitude rivaling Sasuke's own on the worst of days. Though the arguments that had once been commonplace in their home had largely disappeared. It was odd, they still seemed to be on bad terms with one another, on the rare occasion they ventured outside together. Nary a hand hold or loving look in sight.

The heiress inhaled deeply of the chilled air, the coolness easing her hidden anxiety before she took her first steps into the building. Eyes immediately fell on her; she was the rising star of Konaha Asset Management after all. As she ascended in the elevator, all she could do was pray Sasuke's bold plan wouldn't spell doom for her and her short-lived corporate career.

"Ohayo Hinata-san." greeted the rosy cheeked receptionist as the Hyuuga entered the office, though her smile quickly disappeared when she spotted the sever look on the visitors face, "A-ano…the meeting has been delayed a bit. If you'd like, I can show you to an office you can use in the meantime."

"No thank you, Moegi-chan. I'll just be waiting in the conference room." She brushed past the young woman and into the office without another word. The floor was alive; ringing phones, boisterous voices, and the sound of shuffling paper all filing the pristine workplace. Though with each cubicle or employee passed, the sounds stifled, as if her very presence frightened them, if not simply made them uncomfortable. They all knew how she had more or less stormed their office with her fiancé and captured a board seat in only a few hours. She was seen as a force to be reckoned with; it was time the board saw this as well.

Hinata arrived at the glass panned conference, the first to do so in fact. She walked around the large oval shaped table, her free hand delicately gliding over the tops of each chair she passed in search of her chosen throne. Own the room. Sasuke's words once again sounding in her head before she came to a stop at the center seat. No doubt it was Sarutobi's, and such an act would be bold to say the least. But just as her sister said, "No risk, no reward."

She set down her attaché on the table and draped her peacoat over the chair before claiming it. She exhaled deeply and ran her fingers over the smooth top of the table, this was it, no turning back now. The heiress took the brief quiet before the storm to arrange her documents and review.

"Ah, Hinata-san. You're early." Spoke a wizened voice that snapped her head upright. Sarutobi entered slowly with a soft smile, several other suits whose names Hinata had yet to commit to memory flanking him, "I see you've also taken the best seat in the house."

The heiress rose to her feet and bowed respectfully, a thin smile on her face in return, "Yes, Sarutobi-sama. I would hate to have to fight for a seat at the table, again."

The room froze momentarily, and Hinata couldn't help but feel that she may have come on too strong. But when Sarutobi released a chuckle and shook his head at her candor, she breathed a silent sigh of relief. The older man made his way around the table and took the seat beside Hinata, his smile adding a few more wrinkles to his face, "Yes, we can't have that again I suppose."

"You've given the proposal much thought eh, Hinata?" he asked knowingly, keenly noticing the thick stack of documents beside her.

"Hai, it's my job no?"

"It is indeed." He returned with a chuckle, as if her off color standoffishness didn't phase him. While it didn't, it was cause for some concern. More than a handful of senior members had already reneged on their support for her current position, deciding the risk was too great. Not only for the accusations of nepotism, but also for the threat of outside corruption. The Uchiha's had always, and would always be a threat, despite their diminutive size by comparison.

Soon enough the boardroom was full of chattering old men and their assistants; the time to enact her plan was quickly approaching. Sarutobi rapped his knuckles against the table loud enough to pierce the cacophony of sound and silence the room, "Let's begin shall we."

They reviewed at length the efficacies of the proposal, making sure to draw it out as long as possible; a tactic Sasuke had schooled her on. The longer the meeting, the less likely it was for dissenting opinions to form, a proverbial war of attrition. But Hinata held fast against the monotonous droning and the dizzying statistics they put forth.

"A compelling argument Homura-san, thank you." Sarutobi pinched the bridge of his nose when the man finally finished his diatribe, relief finally in sight. "If there are no other…strong opinions on the matter I'd like to reach a consensus."

It was now or never.

"I'd like to say something, if the board doesn't mind." Responded Hinata, all eyes locking on to her in an instant. It was less traumatic the second, third time around.

"Please, you have the floor Hinata." Allowed the meeting leader, affording the youngest member what remaining patience he had.

The heiress inhaled deeply and cleared her throat, staring almost defiantly at the eyes that still held disdain for her very presence. Her eye's locking onto her main misanthrope, Homura. He had been the only one to oppose the proposal, and without anyone agreeing with him, he'd surely get swept under the rug. He was the closest thing to a friend she had to exploit in this moment.

"Like many of this board, I've taken a detailed look at the proposal, as well as the undeniable positives I too believe it will bring the company as a whole." She began, hoping to win a few over before becoming even more of a pariah. "However, after listening to Homura-san's impassioned dissection, I too believe that this prospectus is not a good fit within Konoha Asset Management."

Murmurs of dissention grew as people looked at each other quizzically, Sarutobi frowning as well before regarding the heiress, "And why exactly is that?"

"For years Konoha has been the gold standard for not only personal wealth management, but also for high-profile institutions. I would—no we would be remiss if we neglected to take them into account."

"Are you saying this is some sort of stunt, Hyuuga?" snapped Homura, still wary of her amenability with him.

"Of course not, Homura-san. In fact, I believe what you were alluding to was that this prospectus merely perpetuates the status quo of the company." Her defense came with a sweet smile despite the roiling of her stomach. "If we choose the safe route, we assure our clients nothing but the same service they've received for years. While our competitors choose more…appealing strategies and slowly whittle away at our clientele."

The room fell silent, and for once she couldn't be sure if she had more friends or enemies. No matter the case, she had to forge ahead. "What I propose may seem radical to some, but our competitors were once considered too risky to trust, and now they are no more or less legitimate then us. They poach and plunder from the shadows no longer."

"Your fiancé and his company fit that bill to a T. Are you proposing we undermine him and the rest of his ilk?" Hinata could feel the bile rise to her throat slightly at the look on the man's face, Homura was practically salivating at the notion.

"Tomoe is an ally, and we are obligated to honor that. What I propose is we change with the times, adapt to the shift in risk aversion, and let the world know Konoha is stronger than ever. I believe this is the sentiment you were trying to convey, Homura-san."

Even Hinata was surprised by herself. But if Homura believed Sasuke to be the greatest threat and not the snake she knew lurked in the shadows, her job was half done. Though, she felt no better about deceiving them in his name.

"Yes well, for the purposes of this meeting I didn't want to overstep. But a bold new direction is indeed what I was advising. I've heard it myself that several competitors have been courting the police pension fund. We can no longer sit idly by and risk being overtaken by a band of upstarts and rogues."

Hinata's eyes shifted to the CEO beside her, scanning his face for some semblance of acceptance. Though, all she found was a contemplative look as he mulled over the prospect. She had followed Sasuke's instructions almost flawlessly and had enlisted the most senior board member as her unwitting patsy. All she needed now was to play on the greed of the rest of the room.

"I feel this decision requires more than a simple change in policy. As such, I've researched a possible alternative to the current proposal." Hinata shuffled her papers about before producing an individually earmarked stack. "This prospectus offers more appealing returns to our clients in untapped emerging markets."

Silence prevailed once again, not surprisingly; however, they were every bit as resistant to change as Sasuke had claimed. But they could see that a new age of investor was upon them, and their savvier competition was nipping at their heels. Sasuke's intervention was proof enough.

Hiruzen flipped through the documents, scanning each briefly with a discerning eye, "A change like this…will take some deliberation. Let's take a break and reconvene in an hour. Hinata, stay here with me for a moment."

Hinata did as she was told, watching as the rest of the board shuffled out. Suddenly she was aware of the adrenaline that ha/d been coursing through her veins, her heart thumping erratically in her chest. Was he suspicious of her otherwise above-board participation in the forum?

"I must say, you've certainly taken to your new position quite naturally." The praise took her by surprise, and allowed her to breath a small sigh of relief. But she couldn't let her guard drop just yet, the deal wasn't done until it was implemented and Orochimaru was sated.

"Thank you, Sarutobi-sama."

"Please Hinata, I've known you since you were a tiny little thing. Hiruzen will do." It was a true enough statement, but it only made her deception sting a bit more. This man trusted her and her family with more than she knew, yet here she was possibly leading him down a ruinous path. "But I must ask, how is it you came upon this particular proposal?"

Hinata's heart skipped a beat momentarily as she stared into the elder man's dearly eyes. "I will not lie to you, Hiruzen-san. I…I asked my sister for guidance."

"I see. Some might consider that a breach of your non-disclosure agreement, but I understand the need for outside counsel every now and then." His soft words allayed her fears somewhat but when she saw his face shift, seriousness imbedded deep in his wrinkles, she knew he was softening her up before bringing down the hammer. "I was beginning to fear that Homura and the rests reservations about you and your fiancé were not unfounded."

"I…I don't blame you, or them for having suspicions." She admitted in a meek tone her eyes turning down to her lap. This was the part she dreaded the most, so much so that she wished Sasuke had been wrong for once. His prophetic foresight prepared her for everything she already experienced thus far, but this…

"They'll cast their doubts about you—about me. Make sure they know you're on their side. Whatever it takes."

Hinata grit her teeth, as if lying wasn't enough, now she needed to denounce her fiancé. "I've... I've learned what sort of man he is, my fiancé."

"No insult intended, Hinata. It's just…this business tests men in unnatural ways."

"And as extraordinary as my fiancé is, he's still just a man." Her eyes met his and hardened as thoughts of Sasuke's sins bubbled to the surface. "He is no less like to deceive for something as base as greed than anyone else in this business, I suppose."

"You have a good head on your shoulders Hinata, and an even better heart." The wise old man offered her a soft smile and a squeeze of her hand. Even though she hadn't explicitly said so, he knew there was something about her betrothed not even she trusted. He rose slowly and made his way to the door, stopping only to peer of his shoulder, "And I have half a mind to believe Sasuke isn't the worst of the worst. He's entrusted us with you, after all."

Hinata sat alone in the conference room, a frown etched on her face and brow furrowed. They trusted her. But she knew, in this moment, she was no better than the creature many believed Sasuke to be. She suppressed her feelings momentarily as she retrieved her cellphone and stared at the clock. It was almost time.

"Sasuke-kun…I hope you know what you're doing."


Night was quickly approaching as Sasuke pulled up to the seedy unmarked establishment, the last vestiges of light foreshadowing the deed at hand. He was greeted gruffly by a pair of suited guards enjoying a smoke outside who patted down every inch of him before opening the heavy steel door for him. Instantly he was assaulted by all manner of smells and sounds as he ventured down the poorly illuminated hallway. He was escorted by an attendant as they passed scantily clad women, and discerning customers milling about with their heads downcast. He didn't know if it was a gentlemen's club or an outright whorehouse, but it didn't matter, that last thing he was here for couldn't be further from pleasure.

His guide bowed deeply as they stopped before a door nestled far in the back of the sprawling building. The Uchiha didn't hesitate to grasp the handle and push his way inside; this was to be the beginning of the end for one of them.

"Ah, Sasuke-kun. So nice to see you again."

"A sentiment I do not share, Orochimaru."


Whew! Alright there you have it. Sorry for the delay of course, this one was far harder than I expected. A lot of moving parts in this chapter and a lot of character development. Sasuke and Hinata are put in the uncomfortable position of accelerating their plans lest they never truly see the future they want for one another. I really wanted this to be a Hinata centric chapter as it's becoming increasingly clear that she is the solution to this whole mess, but what isn't clear is who she'll be on the other side. I wanted to introduce that ambiguity as she goes through what essentially is a metamorphosis. I also wanted to give Kin a more nuanced backstory, and I'm not gonna lie, it was a spur of the moment thing and I may just run with writing a few vignettes just for her I love it so much. I also wanted to play on the chapter title Foes by placing that importance on who Hinata can trust with her hardships, not Sasuke, nor Hanabi, but Kin truly being the only one she can call a friend in this moment. Anywho, thank you to all my loyal readers who I've kept waiting, I know these are trying times and every little bit that takes our mind off things helps, so I hope this did it part and helped. As always, please review and send me your love, critiques or what have you, every bit is appreciated.

Next Chapter: Plan. Execute. Evaluate.