Thanks to everyone who reviewed Heaven's tale. Just so everyone know I am back and am really keen to update this fic frequently.
Just to make note. I made an error regarding Gaara's eye colour in chapter 4.
And yes i decided to make this story now in 3rd person. I think its necessary in a way since there's so many characters.
Now on with the story...
Heaven's Tale.
Chapter 5.
Ding… Dong…
"Otousan… Otousan… Can you please get the door?" I called out from the kitchen but only silence answered me. I washed my hands hurriedly, drying my hands on the baby blue apron. I forgot that Gai went to the store to buy some tea as the house supply had run out.
Ding… Dong…
It must be Lee. I thought. At times, he'd forget to bring his key along. "Hold on," I called out. I ambled hurriedly to the door, unlocking it. "Sorry Lee, I was in the kitc-"
Silver eyes looked down at me, ebony hair in a low ponytail. I didn't think I'd see him so fast. My heart raced, pumping hard in my chest. "Neji…" I trailed, not knowing what to say.
"Tenten…" He acknowledged.
"Please come in," I told Neji, a bit awkwardly, opening the front door wider for him to pass through. He made his way towards the living room and sat down on the sofa. I sat down too. I glanced at him, remembering the face I tried so hard to forget. He looked the same but more of an adult as compared to a teenager. No doubt he was still good looking with his chiselled features and clear eyes. I, suddenly, realised that I was staring and looked down at my hands to cover my embarrassment.
Cough… cough…
The silence was broken as Neji brought his hand upwards towards his mouth in order to conceal his cough. He looked under the weather; his pale cheeks had a pink hue to it. "Are you ok?" I asked him, my forehead creasing slightly in worry. I touched his forehead lightly, taking note of the increase in his body heat. "You've got a fever?" I stated. I stood up from the cream sofa that I sat, making my way to the open kitchen. "I'm sorry we don't have tea. Maybe warm water with a bit of honey for your throat?" I asked him, waiting for an answer.
"Hn…" he nodded, eyes watching me from afar.
"Here you go," I declared, as I placed a mug on the worn out coffee table. "You hardly get sick."
"Why did you leave?" Neji demanded, his composure calm but his eyes giving away his restlessness.
I looked up, a little startled. "There's no particular reason," I lied.
"I know you better than that." Neji's eyes searched mine.
"I just needed a change in scenery," I told him. "I was going to go regardless if you chose to go to Tokyo University or not."
A moment of silence ensued when he finally let out a small sigh. "I see... You just made me," he paused, searching for the right word. "... Worried."
"I'm sorry," I told him quietly. It really was not my intention to make him worry. I just really needed to get away for a while.
"You owe me."
"I what," I said startled. "For what?"
"You made me spar with Lee," He said accusingly.
"You do know that you will eventually have to spar with him. He pesters you every day. You have to give in once in a while." I answered back.
"I have for four years," He said pointedly. "Whose fault do you think that is?"
"Fine," I said exasperated. "What can I do to make it up to you?" I told him, sweetly.
Neji gave a ghost of a smile. "Spar with me."
My eyes widened like saucepans. "What? Here... Now... Here..." I asked disbelievingly.
"At the dojo." He picked up his mug and quickly drank the rest of him water. " I'll see you tomorrow. Same time as usual."
"But you're sick."
"A good night's sleep should be sufficient." He stood up and took a few steps towards me. His frame towered over mine and I could smell a hint of his mint aftershave. "I'm sure I would come out victorious even at my current state."
My jaw dropped. The nerve of Neji. I just came back and he was all cocky with me. I stood up, hands on hip. "For your information, I have kept up with my training these past 4 years. For once in your life, I'd make you bite your words." I puffed. My competitive streak was coming out and he was getting me all riled up.
"Hn," Neji smirked. "We'll see."
I glared at him in annoyance.
Gai, unexpectedly, breezed through the door, plastic bag groceries in hand. " My beautiful flower, I shall make a great feast fit for royalty on your coming back." He plopped the groceries on the floor and gave me yet another bear-crushing hug. " Ah! Neji! You must join us for dinner. I'm making my famous chilli stew." Gai smiled, his white teeth gleaming.
Neji turned white on the thought of the chilli stew. I cannot blame him. The chilli stew was more of thick red gooey paste rather than a stew. It also bubbled up once in a while like the lava in a volcano.
"Neji is running a fever. He has to go back home to rest, otousan," I told my Gai.
"Well, not to worry. I shall leave some for you to eat for when you're better." Gai smiled and gave a fatherly pat on the back to Neji which was more of a slap than a pat. He then turned to the kitchen and began unpacking the groceries.
"I'll walk you to the door," I told Neji. He nodded and walked ahead of me when he stopped abruptly just before the entrance to my apartment.
"I'm glad you came back," he told me quietly. I looked up surprised and gave him a soft smile.
"Me too." He made his way outside. "Good night, Neji." I told him before I closed the door. He nodded and made his way to the lift.
Neji collapsed on his bed as he was tired and stared up at the ceiling, lost in his thoughts.
2 days ago...
Neji leaned against the wall tired from his sparring session but satisfied that he had won yet again. He sat cross legged and closed his eyes, breathing slowly in and out, in and out. Normally after a sparring session, he'd meditate a method he used to relax his body and mind.
"My eternal rival," Lee bellowed, doing his 200 one armed push-ups. "Although I have lost, I am one step closer in defeating you."
Neji ignored him. It was the same routine every day. Neji would defeat Lee and, then, Lee would do push ups or sit ups and declare that he'd one day defeat Neji. It was the same with Tenten. He'd defeat her everyday but she'd always continue training even though they sparred for more than 3 hours. He admired her resolve.
"I forgot to tell you," Lee proclaimed. Neji continued to ignore him. "Tenten and Naruto is coming back in 2 days." At the mention of Tenten's name, Neji opened his eyes. "Isn't that great."
"Hn..." Neji replied unable to decide what to think or say. But, indeed, it was good news.
He remembered his meeting with Tenten earlier on. He did not know how to approach her. After thinking for 2 days, he decided to just knock on her front door and demand for an explanation. What he did not count on was how much she changed yet remained the same. She was attractive he admitted, now that she is more feminine especially with the single bun she pulled her hair back into since he has never seen her other than sporting her usual hairstyle in 2 buns. For the first time, he looked forward to tomorrow. He was curious as to how strong she has gotten. Four years was a long time indeed. However, for now, he should rest. There was no way he was going to lose his first match.
The alarm went off and Sasuke woke up from bed, still groggy from the lack of sleep. He stumbled out of bed and made his way to the kitchen where he found his wife Tenten, cooking up an omelette. Sunlight streaked into the window, brightening up the entire room.
"Morning," Tenten smiled, cheerily. She placed the omelette onto a dish and placed it on the table.
"Monin 'tousan,"A chibi Sasuke look-alike said, while stuffing his face with breakfast cereal.
"Hn," Sasuke replied. He was happy and wished that this moment lasted a lifetime.
"Tousan... Let's go to the joo today. I want to see hipotamus and chickmonks," Little Shinsuke exclaimed, his smile wide.
"You'd choke on your food. Don't talk while eating," Tenten said firmly, kissing his head. "You didn't forget did you," Tenten stated towards Sasuke. "He's been talking about this all week. I even called you yesterday to remind you."
Called you...
Called you...
Sasuke woke up from the dream with a start. In the darkness, his hand searched for the hotel phone situated on the side table and immediately dialled Tenten's number.
Damn it. Sasuke thought. She's going to be pissed.
Ring Ring…. Ring Ring…
"Hello," Tenten answered, her voice soft and strained.
"Tenten," Sasuke replied, cautiously.
"Sasuke-kunnnn..." Tenten purred into the receiver, more alert now.
She really was pissed. She never used that tone of voice when she's happy. "Sorry," Sasuke responded.
"It's 12.30am, do you know how worried sick I was," Tenten said fuming. "I don't even know where you are."
"I fell asleep. I'm at the hotel now." Sasuke removed his shirt to show off his pale chocolate abs. He really was tired and tomorrow he has another schedule to attend too.
Tenten sighed. "At least you're safe. I was worried a stalker might have kidnapped you or something." Sasuke imagined Tenten twirling her brown hair around her fingers as they talked and he allowed himself to smile. "Or worse you were murdered or ran over by a truck."
"You've always had a great imagination," Sasuke teased. He visualised her rolling her almond shaped eyes.
"Haha." Tenten smiled. "Very funny... So what are your plans for tomorrow? Are we still meeting up for dinner?"
"Hn." Sasuke replied, which of course meant a yes. "I got an autograph signing session tomorrow in the mall at 11am."
"Alright. I'll meet you at the Wong Chinese Restaurant at 6pm then," She stated, her nervousness can be heard in her every word. "Don't be late. My dad is very punctual."
"I won't," Sasuke reassured her. He needed to make a good impression after all.
"Ok well I'm a little tired now. I'll see you tomorrow. I need to get some shut eye." Tenten yawned. "Nights."
"Night." Sasuke replied, putting down the phone back in its cradle.
The following day...
"Can I take a photo with you?" A freckled, pale faced 14 year old girl asked shyly. Sasuke nodded, standing up from his chair and made his way beside his fan. After the picture was taken she thanked him and joined her friends who were waiting at the side, giggling happily.
Sasuke glanced at his watch and sat down again. It was 2.55pm. He had another 5 minutes before his meet and greet session with the fans ended. He was in the mall, at the centre court, to promote his current drama called 'Late Nights'. He glanced at the short line now which only contained 15 people. Initially, there were at least 1000 fangirls in the mall. However, security and the drama production team only allowed 500 to get into line for an autograph.
When the final autograph was signed, Sasuke stood up from his seat and bowed slightly to the crowd. Immediately, his fangirls screamed his name and swooned in unrest. He was glad that it was over. It was a long day after all. Accompanied by more security, he was brought to a small room in the mall which was reserved for VIPS. In there, Sasuke changed into something less attention grabbing. He could not walk around in the mall wearing what he was now because he would definitely get recognised and swarmed by unwanted company right away. He took out a white cotton long sleeve shirt which he had prepared before arriving to the mall and dressed it over his torso. Since, it was hot he decided to roll up his sleeves. Not forgetting his cap and sunglasses, he put it on before making his way out of the room.
Another glance to his watch and he decided he had time for coffee as he had 2 hours and 30 minutes till dinner. Maybe, since he has time to spare, he can get a gift for Tenten's family too. Sasuke glanced around the mall and saw a café. He made his way into it, breathing the aroma of roasted Arabian coffee. He needed to drink first and maybe get a sandwich to eat.
"One dark chocolate coffee," Sasuke uttered in his baritone voice, deciding against a sandwich since he'll be having dinner soon. He whipped out his wallet and paid the barista/cashier in cash. Since Sasuke met Tenten, although he never did like sweet stuff but he grew fond of chocolate. Maybe it was due to the fact that Tenten smelled of vanilla and chocolate. The barista handed him his drink and Sasuke took a sip. He turned around when, suddenly, he bumped into something soft. In that one moment, he spilled his drink on his white shirt. He grimaced slightly at the contact of hot water on his body.
"A-ano… Gomenasai," the soft object apologised.
Sasuke fixed an angry stare at the person. "You again," he glowered. His shirt was a mess and he had nothing to wear for dinner.
Hinata glanced up at the angry voice and her eyes widened. "I-I didn't mean t-to," she replied, bowing twice.
"You're buying me a new shirt," Sasuke answered. He was in a mall after all. Why go all the way to the hotel when he can buy one right here in the mall. He had the money to buy it but since he was so pissed off. He decided she should pay.
Hinata bit her lip. It was obvious he was furious and she did not want to cause further anger by refusing his wish. "C-can we at l-least drink f-first? I'll buy you a-another c-cup of c-coffee." She told him quietly. She was really thirsty and hungry as she hardly had anything to eat this morning.
"Hn…" Sasuke agreed. At least she was not running away and since she was not a fan or is able to know who he was, he thought it was fine. He was still thirsty after all.
"One vanilla latte and one…" Hinata paused not knowing what he wanted.
"Dark chocolate coffee," Sasuke answered.
"That'll be 680 yen," the barista/cashier calculated.
Hinata handed her the money and waited for the drinks. "Why d-don't y-you find a p-place to s-sit?" She told Sasuke. He nodded finding a spot near the window. In case she ran away, he would be able to see the direction she ran in.
Hinata took the hot beverages and made her way to the brooding man. "Your c-coffee." She placed on the table and took a seat on the wooden chair. She sipped her drink hurriedly, not glancing at the man across from her.
"What's your name?" Sasuke asked, staring intently at the meek figure in front of him.
Hinata glanced up surprised. "H-hinata." He nodded. "W-what's your n-name?" She asked him, feeling a bit bolder since he made the first move.
He raised an eyebrow. So she really did not know who he was. "Sasuke."
"S-sasuke-san," she repeated audibly. "S-sorry about your s-shirt."
"Are you always this clumsy?" he asked her.
"Y-yes…" She answered. He looked at her and she noticed that he was not as angry as before. At that moment, her stomach rumbled and she blushed embarrassed.
"You're hungry," he stated. "Why didn't you order something?"
Truthfully, Hinata wanted to buy some puff pastries seen at the counter but decided against it. She was intimidated by the guy in front of her and knew that if she did eat he would have watched her. "I've g-got d-dinner soon."
"Hn…" Sasuke replied, knowing that she was uncomfortable.
Tenten held her shinai, which is a long wooden sword used in kendo, in front of her. She was tired and knew that this last attack would make the difference between her defeat and her winning. She watched the pale eyed man in front of her, analysing his next move. Neji did not make any attempt to start the attack.
Due to weariness and impatience, Tenten sprang forward, aiming her shinai towards his head. She decided she would fake an attack to his head but instead aim for his shoulder.
"Men," Neji declared. Tenten felt a tap on her head. She lost.
She collapsed on the floor, fatigue consuming her slender body.
He took a seat beside her. "You did good," Neji admitted, quietly. It was a close combat. If it were not for his determination, he would have lost already.
"Thanks," Tenten replied in between breaths.
"You had another partner," Neji confirmed. Her moves were unexpected, much different from how she used to attack or defend.
"You seem surprised," Tenten questioned, sitting up. She wiped her perspire with her handkerchief. It was true she did have another sparring partner or rather 2 sparring partners. "Occasionally, I'd practice with Naruto or Sasuke."
Neji flinched at the mention of the name 'Sasuke'. She spoke of him too fondly. Was he something to her? Whoever this guy was, Neji decided he did not like him one bit.
"So..." Tenten began. It was a long time since they actually talked to each other and she felt a little awkward. "How's Sakura and Hinata? I haven't seen them yet."
"They're fine."
"Are you and Sakura still together?" Tenten asked.
"Yes."
Tenten sighed. "You still don't talk much."
"Sorry to disappoint you "
Tenten laughed. "No, I'm pretty relieved actually." She tucked a tendril of her hair behind her ears. "You haven't changed at all," She said inaudibly, meeting his gaze.
Tenten turned away in embarrassment. "Have you started working?" Tenten asked.
"Hn," Neji answered. "as an intern but it'll be official next week."
"So is he making you vice-president?" Tenten joked.
"Yes," Neji replied, his seriousness written all over his face.
"Wow," Tenten smiled. Hiashi must have seen the potential in his nephew for him to make Neji vice president at such a young age. "You've got your job cut out for you," Tenten said pointedly, referring to the Hyuuga Hotel Empire.
"Hn," Neji agreed. "You?" He asked referring to whether she has a job or not.
"I've sent applications. I've got 2 interviews next week," Tenten replied.
Neji stared a he intently. "What?" Tenten asked, her fingers touching her cheek, self consciously. Did she have dirt on her face?
"Neji... There you are?" Sakura announced, waltzing into the dojo, designer handbag in tow. "Tenten... OH MY GOD," Sakura gasped, shocked at the sight of the brunette. "You're back."
Tenten smiled, pulling herself to her feet. "Here I am."
Sakura pulled her into an embrace, ignoring Tenten's sweaty state. "I missed you so much. You just took off suddenly."
"Sorry. I thought it'll be harder if I said goodbye." Tenten shrugged.
"You look gorgeous." Sakura beamed. "I've been trying to give you a makeover for years."
Tenten touched her ponytail. "Well... If you meant my hairstyle it's bound to change," Tenten replied.
"Are you joining us for dinner?" Sakura asked hopefully, holding my hand.
"Sorry not today. I got dinner with my family. It's rather important," Tenten explained to the pink haired companion.
Sakura nodded understandably. "Family first." Neji walked over and stood beside Sakura. Tenten could not help to think that they make a good looking couple. When they marry, they would have smart and beautiful kids as well. Her heart tugged at the thought. However, Tenten immediately thought of her brooding boyfriend and the painful feeling melted away.
"Well, I'll see you guys later," Tenten bid farewell, giving them a small wave.
"Practice is on every Saturday and Sunday," Neji reminded. Since they would start working, they could not practice every day.
"Alright but let's make it in the morning ok," Tenten confirmed.
"Hn..." Neji agreed, watching the brunette walk away.
Sasuke stopped in his tracks when Hinata crashed into him. "Look where you're going next time," He told her. She nodded, timidly. "We're here."
Hinata glanced up at the large shop sign where it read "Knights and Kings". Sasuke entered into the shop and she followed him. She stood in the middle of the store, watching him go through the racks of clothing one by one. Finally, he took out a white cotton shirt similar to what he was wearing and examined it.
Hinata took a deep breath. "S-sasuke-san," She called out. Sasuke looked over at her at the mention of his name. "S-since I'm b-buying you a shirt c-can I at l-least have a-a say in w-what you're buying." She dared herself to meet his dark eyes.
"Hn," Sasuke answered. To her relief, he agreed.
"W-what's the o-occasion?" Hinata asked, browsing through the racks of clothes.
"I have dinner with my girlfriend's family," Sasuke replied, one hand in the pocket and the other still holding onto the white shirt he took from the rack. Although his features were empty of emotions, he was relieved he had help in the outfit department. He never did like shopping. He observed her rummage through the clothes when she took out a long sleeve white cotton shirt with pale blue stripes details.
"T-try this," She ordered him, pointing in the direction of the changing room.
Sasuke took the striped shirt from her hands and placed the white shirt he was holding back on the rack. He, then, walked over to the dressing room and pulled the curtain close.
Hinata waited patiently, when the salesclerk pointed her towards a checkered chair she could sit on. "Thank you," she said, gratefully. With her hands placed neatly on her lap, she looked over at the dressing room. She thought that he was not as bad as he seemed to be. She just met him under bad circumstances.
At that moment, Sasuke removed his stained shirt and exposed his upper torsi. Hinata blushed crimson as she noticed that the curtains did not cover the entire dressing room. She looked away and attempted to calm herself down. She knew he worked out as he seemed the type, but she never knew he had a lean muscular body.
"What do you think?" Sasuke asked her, stepping out of the dressing room. He stood with both arms in his pockets and slouched slightly. Hinata glanced at him and felt her face heat up again. He looked good, really good. He could very well be a model.
"I-it l-looks g-good," She said softly, embarrassed as she stuttered more than usual. She was pleased with her choice.
"I'll take it then," Sasuke told the salesclerk, pulling the price tag from his collar and snipped it with a scissors on the counter. The sales guy scanned the tag and placed the coffee stained shirt into a paper bag. Hinata took out her credit card to pay and signed the sales receipt.
At the entrance of the store, it was clear that they would now part ways. Hinata decided to bid farewell, however, she noticed him scanning the mall as if in search of something.
"What a-are you looking f-for?" She asked.
Sasuke looked at the girl beside him, a hint of surprise in his eyes. He thought that she would have gone her own way by now.
"Are you looking for a gift for your girlfriends family?" Hinata asked. Amazingly, she managed to not stutter since she felt more comfortable around him now. Sasuke looked at her more intently. She seemed to be able to read him pretty well.
"Hn," Sasuke replied.
Hinata brightened up. "What are they like?" She questioned. Sasuke glared. Immediately, Hinata regretted on asking him questions. It was obvious she asked one question too many. Maybe she should have minded her own business.
"They're martial arts enthusiasts," Sasuke muttered, surprised at himself for actually telling her.
She nodded. She became immersed in her thoughts. Instantly, her mind went to Gai, Lee and Tenten. She smiled, knowing the perfect gift. "There's a martial arts store on the first floor in the east wing. Recently, they're selling some of Bruce Lee's memorabilia." Sasuke nodded, mentally taking note of what she said. . It was the perfect gift, he acknowledged.
Suddenly, Hinata gasped. A moment ago her eyes landed on a poster for the drama 'Late Nights' not far from them. On it was a picture of the lead actor who reminded her of the guy standing beside her. Only she realised that Sasuke really was the lead actor.
Sasuke followed her line of sight and inwardly sighed. That took her long enough. He waited for her squeals but it never came. Instead, he saw her rummaging through her leather sling bag and pulled out a DVD box set of the drama. He began to take out a pen from his pocket when she handed him the DVD.
"A-ano," she started nervously, half anticipating that he'd reject her request. "Can you p-please get K-kurenai-san to sign t-this for me?" she asked hopefully, her stuttering coming back.
Sasuke raised an eyebrow. He was not expecting that. "Hn," he said agreeing. Since she helped him with the gift, he might as well return the favour.
"Thank you," Hinata said, smiling shyly. "Ja ne..." she bid him farewell and left before he ever had the chance to ask her for her address in order to mail it to her later.
Knock... Knock...
The door creaked open and a pregnant woman stepped into the room.
"Yamanaka-san is here for the 5pm appointment," the secretary declared, holding her stomach lovingly.
"Hn," Gaara replied, his attention still focused on the document sitting on his desk. "Bring her in."
A minute later, Ino breezed into the room, her Chanel no. 5 perfume filling the entire office. She stood in front of his desk, expecting him to stand up and acknowledge her.
"Sit," the red haired man instructed her.
Ino fumed but did as she was told. She pulled the leather armchair and sat down, crossing both her legs and her arms. "Where's the contract? Let me read and sign it quickly. I've got places to go," Ino hastened. She took off her Dior shades and placed them on his dark Oak desk.
"Shopping can wait," Gaara uttered, rearranging the document at hand and placing it in the 'out' box. "There are things to discuss about your contract."
"Look... You're busy. I'm busy," Ino stated. "Just tell me the date, time, location and I'll be out of your hair in no time."
"This is a big campaign," Gaara explained, ignoring her blatant brashness. "The company is launching an airplane where the main theme is luxury."
Ino sat up straighter in her chair, paying more attention now since he perked up her interest. In her career, it was rare to come across a huge campaign. "So you want me to do more than a simple photo shoot?" Ino asked the handsome red hair in front of her. Yes, she thought he was good looking what with his tattoo and bed hair. He was hot in a bad boy sort of way. Judging from how he acted, he was used to having his own way. But she would never give in so easily.
"Yes," Gaara's green eyes met Ino's gaze. "You'll be a spokesperson. When the aeroplane is launched, you will go on the flight with our shareholders and wealthy clientele. We'll make a short ad based on the flight."
Ino was deep in thought. At first she thought it was a simple photo shoot where she would just strike poses in front of the camera. However, considering the scale of the project, it did seem a little too much not to be paid considering how she only gave him a nosebleed and not a broken arm.
Gaara observed the blond. She seemed to be contemplating whether she should take the offer or not. He frowned inwardly. She cannot back out now. She was the perfect candidate as Ino was well-known by the population not to mention he did not need to pay her. Either ways he had a trump card. Due to the incident, she would not even think of backing out.
"No doubt, I will still pay you," Gaara began, breaking the silence. That peaked Ino's interest. She guessed he was not a complete jerk to not pay her, although, that was the initial agreement. "I won't pay for the photo shoot but for you being a spokesperson." Ino nodded, agreeing with the terms.
Gaara opened a drawer, located on his right hand side, and took out a brown envelope containing the contract. Ino took it from his hand and tore the envelope open. She scanned the pages. She has signed many contracts before so she knew the basic contents of it. So far so good.
"I'll have a friend look through this first. Since it's not just a photo shoot, I have to make sure everything is satisfactory," Ino stated. She tucked the contract into her handbag. "I'll pass it to your secretary when I've signed it."
"Hn," Gaara replied, agreeing. "The photo shoot is in 5 days. My secretary will give you the details."
Ino nodded before standing up to take her leave.
"In case you'd think of doing my campaign half-heartedly, I've got the 'incident' on tape," Gaara warned, reminding her of their first encounter.
"I'm a professional," Ino exclaimed, her pride slightly bruised. With that she stormed out of the room, slamming the door shut.
Gaara stared at the closed door. She was a whole lot of a woman what with her brashness and personality. She was not as easy going as Tenten or has a quiet nature as Hinata. He sighed, cracking his knuckles. He really hoped he made the right decision in hiring her.
"We'll have a yam basket with steamed mixed vegetables, Chinese dumplings, braised ginger chicken and 4 bowls of rice," Tenten ordered, closing the menu shut and passing it over to the flustered waitress.
"and 4 chinese tea," Sasuke added, making the waitress startled as her idol was talking to her. The waitress nodded, before rushing out of the VIP room squealing.
Tenten gulped at the sight in front of her. Gai and Lee were seated across her and Sasuke, their arms crossed. They were both wearing a grim, serious expression on there usually smiling face.
Sasuke stood up and bowed to the two men. His chair creaked with the sudden movement. "It is nice to finally meet Tenten's family," Sasuke greeted, before taking his place at the table again.
Tenten's jaw dropped at Sasuke's unusual antics. He has never been this formal or polite to anyone before. He must have been really nervous despite his calm demeanour.
Gai gave a small cough. "You are my daughter's... boyfriend," Gai stated slowly, meeting Sasuke's gaze. Tenten felt her body tense up as her father was not his normal self with his usual odd vocabulary. Maybe she should have given her father a heads up first before introducing him to Sasuke as in she should have told him weeks ago rather than just yesterday.
"Yes," Sasuke replied.
"How long have you two been together?" Gai turned his attention to his daughter, who wore her hair in a high ponytail.
"3 years and a half, otousan," She replied quietly, unable to meet his eyes.
"She is my only daughter," Gai continued, his attention now back to Sasuke. "So it is hard for me to let her go."
"I understand," Sasuke said in monotone.
"My sister has always been good at analysing characters," Lee finally spoke. "So, if she chose you. You must be a good person."
"I try to be," Sasuke replied honestly, meeting Lee's brown orbs.
Gai moved his gaze to Sasuke, then his daughter and, then, to Sasuke again. "Before I agree to this relationship," Gai started. "You must pass 3 tests of mine."
Lee nodded, closing his eyes, agreeing to his father's words. Tenten's chocolate eyes widened. This was not how she wanted the meeting to be like. It was supposed to be just a simple dinner with a few conversations here and there.
"I'm sure you are aware that Tenten is capable of defending herself," Gai confirmed. Sasuke nodded. "However, it is important that she is with a man that can protect her honour."
"Hn."
"Right now, you shall arm wrestle with my son. If you beat him, you'd have passed the first test." Gai explained, patting Lee on his shoulder.
At his words, Sasuke began clearing the table by piling the plates one by one on top of the other. Tenten took the ceramic plates from his hand and placed it on top of her own plate. She quickly gathered the cutleries and placed it on top of the plates stacked on her table mat.
"Otousan," Tenten began to object.
Gai watched Sasuke's actions in approval. "This is between men," he answered, firmly. He glanced over at his daughter's boyfriend. He seemed very promising but he still needed to make sure.
Sasuke rolled up his sleeves and placed his elbow comfortably on the table. Lee mimicked his actions. Both 21 year olds grasped each other's hands firmly. Intensity was clearly shown in each other's dark eyes, neither wanting to lose.
"On the count of three, you shall begin," Gai explained, looking back and forth at the 2 men. "One... Two... Three!"
At first both arms appear unmoving. However, at close inspection, you'd notice both their veins and muscles on their arms were protruding. This showed the sheer amount of strength both used. 5 minutes passed by with no sign of either men winning.
Sasuke maintained his focus. This was harder than he thought. Tenten's brother was stronger than he imagined. 5 minutes in and Lee still showed no signs of defeat. There was no way Sasuke was going to lose. With a final breath, he gathered his final strength and pushed Lee's arm slowly till Lee's knuckles hit the wooden table. Sasuke won.
At first Gai was silent but then he gave an approved glace. "Well done," Gain congratulated, impressed. "Not many people can defeat Lee." Sasuke did not doubt that at all.
The door creaked open and the waitress stepped into the room, balancing a circular tray filled with dishes. She carefully placed the orders on the table, lingering by her idol's side longer than necessary.
"You're quite a ladies' man," Gai commented, watching the waitress exit the room.
"Since I'm an actor, I have a large following," Sasuke explained, indifference on his face. "But Tenten is my first girlfriend."
Tenten smiled reassuringly at her father and brother. She poured the hot tea into the respective porcelain cups and served it to the 3 men.
Lee placed a container on the table and slid it over to Sasuke who caught it with ease. "The 2nd test," Lee verbalised.
Sasuke lifted the lid up to uncover a red gooey stew. Whatever it was, it did not look edible.
"This is my famous chilli stew," Gai clarified. "If you finish this, you passed."
Lee handed Sasuke a spoon. Sasuke took it and began spooning the stew into his mouth, savouring the taste. He winced at the spiciness but decided it was not that bad. Sasuke put his spoon down and brought the container to his lips. He just wanted to down it quickly.
Tenten watched her boyfriend carefully. He did not show any sign of throwing up yet which was good.
At the final drop of stew, Gai smiled warmly. "You passed."
Sasuke nodded, glad that he finally finished the stew and that there was no more. "It needed tomatoes," he commented, wiping his lips with a napkin.
Tenten held in a breath. No one has ever commented on her father's stew before. She did not know how he would react.
"I shall keep that in mind next time," Gai acknowledged, impressed with Sasuke so far.
"Let's eat," Tenten announced, hoping to ease the amount of male testosterone in the room.
"Yes," Gain agreed. "Please dig in." He picked up a piece of chicken with his chopsticks and placed it on Sasuke's plate. Upon seeing the small gesture, Tenten felt herself relax. Her father was slowly accepting Sasuke which was a really good feeling.
Mid meal, Gai began to speak. "I, normally, refer to Tenten as my beautiful flower," he explained. " If you can guess what flower Tenten reminds me of the you have passed the 3rd test."
Tenten looked over at Sasuke who was chewing his rice in thought. There are thousands of flowers in the world, how can he guess the right one.
"I see Tenten as a sunflower," Sasuke answered. "formidable, bright and beautiful."
Lee gave a huge grin showing off his white teeth. "Well done," he acknowledged, showing a thumbs up sign. "You passed."
"My beautiful flower chose well," Gain announced, grinning from ear to ear. He stood up from his chair and walked over to where the happy couple sat. In turns, he gave them a bone-crushing hug. "Welcome to the family!"
Tenten was so relieved. She grinned at Sasuke who, gave her a small smile as if to say 'no worries'.
"This is a moment of celebration," Gai beamed, placing a cake on top of the table. It was a vanilla sponge cake with chocolate sauce and strawberry toppings. "I bought it at the bakery shop."
Usually, Sasuke dislikes desserts. However, he was making an exception today. He was feeling... pleased with today's outcome. Sasuke took out a paper bag from underneath the table. "I bought a gift."
Tenten looked over at the paper bag in surprise. She did not know he prepared one.
Lee took the bag and peered at the contents inside, his eyes widening. Gai glanced over his son's shoulder and his eyes too went as round as saucers.
Lee took the object out of the bag, eyes watering in disbelief. "Bruce Lee numb chucks," both father and son chanted in unison, awestruck at the object in hand.
Tenten looked over at Sasuke in equal disbelief as if to say 'how did you know what to get?" Sasuke returned her gaze and gave her a knowing smirk.
"My boy..." Gai started. "This must have cost a fortune."
Sasuke shook his head. "Not at all." With his salary, money was no object.
Tenten proceeded to slice the cake and serve it to her family and boyfriend. "Lee don't play with the numb chucks here. You might break something," Tenten warned her brother who was mimicking Bruce Lee moves.
Lee obliged, placing the gift back into the bag and then placing it on his lap, not wanting to part with it.
Gai was pleased with Tenten's choice. He seemed to make an effort to be accepted to their family.
After a bite or 2 of the vanilla cake, Gai spoke again. "I hope you are using protection."
Tenten who was drinking tea spat out her drink onto her skinny jeans. She took a napkin and wiped it down furiously. Meanwhile, Sasuke choked on his piece of cake on hearing Gai's words. Lee poured Sasuke more tea to drink and the actor downed it in one go.
"Otousan," Tenten yelped, her face heating up.
Gai's expression showed innocence as he thought it was a rather important matter to bring up. "Didn't I have the talk with you?" Gai questioned his daughter. "Should I bring Mr Woody out?" Gai asked Lee, who wore a horror stricken face. Mr Woody was a wooden male anatomy which was used by Gai to explain the birds and the bees to his 2 children.
"O-otousan theres no need," Tenten hurriedly answered.
Gai gave a sigh of relief. "You two are in the prime of your youths," he continued. "Hot blood will be pulsating through your veins during certain intimate moments," he explained. "Since I can't stop it, the least I can do is make sure you have preventive measures."
Sasuke calmed himself down. Gai's sudden question made him feel a little embarrassed. "Yes," he answered.
"S-sasuke," Tenten sputtered, obviously more in shock that Sasuke actually replied and without a hint of hesitation either. A million questions passed through her mind. Was he thinking of these things? Did he want to do be with her that way?
"If we do decide to engage in..." Sasuke paused. "acts before marriage. We will take precautions."
Tenten blushed crimson. Gai nodded, relieved. "Thank you."
"And if you ever hurt my sister," Lee added, putting in a final say. "I shall kick your fine ass all the way to Osaka."
"That would not happen," Sasuke replied. All in all he thought it was a good day today.
TBC
Thanks to everyone who read this chapter.
Please do leave a review.
I am also intent on continuing this fic. A chapter should be out every 2 weeks.
Oh and if you have any suggestions or scenes you'd want to add or for me to write. Please do let me know. I need ideas. Although I have an idea on how to carry this story but any other suggestions would be good.