Thank you all for the lovely reviews, I'm so glad you liked the last chapter. Your reviews fuel me to do my best and post though there is a lot going on in my life right now. But my readers have the priority to me. Happy friday to all of you.
Before she could even utter a word, Naruto swiftly raised his hand and struck her across the face. The searing pain that radiated through her cheek was almost unbearable, and she couldn't comprehend what had just happened. Had Naruto just slapped her? And for what reason? Tears welled up in her eyes as she looked at him in shock and disbelief.
"Naruto...Kun!!!" she gasped, her voice trembling with emotion.
"I don't want to see you ever talking to that Bastard, are we clear?" Naruto spat out the words, his eyes filled with anger and jealousy.
"..." She stood there in stunned silence, unable to form a response.
He turned and stalked off towards his office, he would sleep there for the night.
She remained frozen in place, her mind reeling from the sudden turn of events. She couldn't believe that Naruto, the man she had loved with all her heart for her entire life, had just struck her. She had never seen him so consumed by jealousy and mistrust before. Her hand still pressed against her burning cheek, she felt her heart shatter into a million pieces as she fell to her knees and started sobbing.
She couldn't understand why he was so furious with her, why he would accuse her of talking to Sasuke about their private issues. She couldn't forgive Naruto for not listening to her, or forget that he was unwilling to hear her side of the story.
She felt lost and alone, as though she didn't know the man she had married anymore. She couldn't shake the image of his anger and disgust from her mind, the way he had screamed at her. It terrified her, and made her wary of him.
She felt her faith in Naruto begin to falter. She felt like she was losing the love of her life, and it was tearing her apart.
She lay on the floor for hours, crying until she had no more tears left. She didn't know how to fix things with Naruto, or if they could ever be the same again. All she knew was that her heart was broken.
As the hours passed, the burning sensation on her cheek persisted and even worsened, despite her attempts to soothe it with ice. She couldn't help but wonder if Sasuke had told Naruto about their conversation, fueling his jealousy and mistrust. All because of that little devil.
The next day, Sakura appeared at Hinata's door, her expression apologetic. "Hinata, I'm sorry to disturb you, but could you please watch over Sarada for me? My mother will be here later, but I can't wait for her. I've left her a note at my door. Sasuke-kun has a mission, and I have to go to my shift at the hospital now... Oh, what happened to your face?"
Hinata flinched, her hand instinctively going to her cheek. "Oh, nothing, I fell from my bed. You know how clumsy I am," she lied, trying to play it off as no big deal.
Sakura's expression softened. "Let me heal you. It won't take long," she offered kindly.
"Thank you, Sakura-chan," Hinata replied gratefully.
After Sakura left, and an hour passed, Sarada's grandmother came to pick her up.
Naruto returned home early. He walked towards Hinata and pulled her into a hug, her head resting against his chest. "I'm sorry I hit you, Hinata. I wasn't in my senses. Please forgive me, it won't happen again," he apologised, his voice heavy with remorse.
"Naruto-kun, please believe me when I say there is nothing between me and Sasuke," Hinata implored, her heart heavy with guilt.
"I believe you, dattebayo," he reassured her, smiling softly as he handed her the small box. "Look what I brought you."
Hinata opened the box to find a golden ring nestled inside. "Naruto-kun! You shouldn't have," she exclaimed, her confusion evident on her face. She didn't particularly care for jewellery, but she didn't want to disappoint him.
"Do you want to go upstairs?" he asked, his eyes darkening with a look that Hinata knew all too well.
Hinata hesitated for a moment, still feeling hurt and confused about what had happened the previous night. She looked at the ring, her mind in turmoil. On the one hand, she was touched by Naruto's gesture, but on the other hand, she still couldn't shake off the memory of him striking her. She didn't know how to react or how to feel.
She looked up at Naruto, who was looking at her with a familiar expression, and she knew what he was thinking. But she didn't feel the same way. She didn't want to be intimate with him, not after what had happened. She felt scared and angry with him, and a ring wouldn't fix anything.
"I'm sorry, Naruto-kun, I'm not feeling well. I think I'll just go to bed early tonight. I left your dinner on the table," she said, trying to escape his advances politely. She could see the disappointment on his face, but she couldn't bring herself to pretend everything was okay.
She didn't know if things would ever be the same between them, and she didn't know if she could forgive him for what he had done. All she knew was that she needed time to process everything and figure out how she felt.
As she went upstairs to bed, she felt her heart heavy with sadness and uncertainty. Naruto returned to their bed, laid down next to her and hugged her. She pretended to be deep asleep. She didn't know if she would ever be able to look at Naruto the same way again, or if their relationship would ever fully recover from this. She closed her eyes, tears streaming down her face as she grappled with the weight of her emotions.
After a few days, Sasuke returned from his mission. Sakura updated him on what he missed in the village, but he wasn't really listening to her. Why does she think he will waste his brain cells on uninteresting news? However, when Sakura mentioned how she had seen Hinata with a bad bruise on her cheek and that Hinata had told her she was clumsy and had fallen, Sasuke's expression changed.
He frowned. That's strange! Hinata isn't that clumsy! Falling from a bed and bruising her cheek? She needs to come up with better lies.
Sakura came closer to him and started touching his chest and neck. "Sasuke-kun, I missed you so much. Didn't you miss me?"
Sasuke sighed, "Sakura, I'm really tired from my mission and just want to get some decent sleep."
Sakura's expression hardened, "You're always tired, always wanting to sleep. What happened to you? I can't remember the last time we had sex."
Sasuke's expression became serious, "Is that all that matters to you? You should be more understanding... I don't like how you approach me. You never give me a chance to want you, to come to you on my own. You jump on me every chance you get. I want to feel attracted to you, to want you, and I can't do that like this. I… I…"
Sakura interrupted him, "You what, Sasuke-kun? I do everything to make you love me. I've changed everything about myself to prove to you that I'm worthy of you. I've become stronger, more independent. I left everything behind and followed you. I gave you a beautiful child. I moved with you to this place. What else do you want?"
Sasuke shook his head, "First of all, thank you for our beautiful child, she's my bundle of joy. Second of all, I don't want you to change anything about yourself for me. I want you to have confidence in yourself and let me love you for who you truly are. I'm tired of your volatile emotions and insecurity. When it comes to our relationship, I need to feel like I'm the man, the strong one. I should be the one to protect you and provide for you. But I don't feel like you need me at all. That all made me lose attraction to you. And when it comes to sex, you become controlling and predictable. You take the lead and it makes me feel awkward."
F After a few weeks of travelling together, Sakura's constant rubbing on him and seduction finally wore down Sasuke's resistance and he made tender love to her. Sakura was in shock and admiration, which made Sasuke feel satisfied. But, after a few days, Sakura's true personality appeared during sex. She became a lustful, hungry control freak, who would pin Sasuke to the ground and force him to submit to her desires, taking control of the experience and restricting his freedom and imagination. Sasuke felt disgusted and refused to have sex with her for a long time.
Their sexual encounters were few and far between in the course of a year and a half. During her pregnancy, Sasuke didn't dare to touch her, as her mood was very bad, and she had even thrown a chair at him in a fit of anger. Sasuke was so furious with her that he kept his distance as much as possible and barely spoke to her. EF
Sasuke's words stung Sakura. She had never heard him talk to her like this before. Her eyes widened in shock as she realised that Sasuke didn't feel the same way about her as she did about him. She had always thought that he loved her, that he wanted her, but now she realised that her constant need for validation and approval from Sasuke had pushed him away. She didn't know what to say, tears streaming down her face as she started to cry loudly.
He hates it when she sobs like that with that annoying high pitch voice. He went outside. He just wants to fucking sleep.
Where should he go? Is Naruto still awake?
He doesn't want to see Hinata though. Going there is no option.
He returned home and went to his library, where he found solace in reading. The shelves are still empty. He has a few of his favourite books and scrolls with ninjitsu knowledge, self-defence taijutsu and living in the wild guide.He had brought some literature books from the black market too and books that were rare.
He started reading one of his new books. Did Hinata like the books he gave her? He read and fell asleep on the Tatami floor. The next day he woke up and he couldn't find Sakura or Sarada. Did she go to work so early? Where is Sarada?
Sasuke looked around the house and noticed that some of Sakura's clothes and personal items were missing. He went to his mother-in-law. Sarada wasn't there either. Did Sakura go back to her apartment after last night's argument? She didn't return the keys before the end of the month.
He doesn't want to take her back, if she wants to stay in her apartment, she can do what she wants. He just wants to see his daughter. He didn't see her after his mission.He knocked on her door.
Sakura was alone and heartbroken. She had always thought that they had a strong connection, but now she realized that she had been living in a fantasy. She felt lost and confused. She didn't know what to do or how to fix things between them. She didn't know if she could change who she was to make him happy, or if she even wanted to anymore.
Sakura opened the door, her eyes red from crying. "Sasuke-kun, if you're here to bring me back, you should know I won't go with you until you appreciate me," she said.
"If you want to stay here, it's fine. I just want to see my girl," he said coldly.
"You can take her with you, I have to go to work anyway. Don't tell my mother I'm here. I don't want to hear her nagging," she said, still angry with him.
As Sasuke walked back home with Sarada in his arms, he felt guilty for the way he had been treating Sakura. He knew that he had been distant and cold towards her, but he couldn't help the way he felt. He couldn't bring himself to be attracted to her or have feelings towards her anymore. He couldn't force himself to feel something that wasn't there. He knew he needed to talk to her and try to work things out, but he just couldn't bring himself to do it. He was tired of arguing and fighting, and he didn't know if he was ready to put in the effort to try and save their relationship.
For now, he focused on spending quality time with his daughter and enjoying the beautiful day. He brought back wood shuriken for Sarada. She started to munch on them. He smiled.
Naruto had been tasked with a mission to the Hidden Village of the Waterfall, where he was to deliver a message to the village's leader. But the young ninja was reluctant to undertake the mission, and protested to Kakashi.
"Naruto, you are a ninja, you can't refuse missions," said Kakashi calmly, trying to reason with his old student.
"Why me? Send Sasuke or anyone else!" Naruto exclaimed, irritation evident in his voice.
"Sasuke has just returned from a mission, and this is an important diplomacy mission that will be beneficial to your training," the Sixth Hokage added, trying to persuade Naruto to accept the mission.
But Naruto was not swayed, "I can't go, I can't leave Hinata alone," he said, looking downcast.
"Hinata is a ninja and a strong woman, nothing will happen to her in the village. What are you worried about?" Kakashi said, struggling to understand Naruto's reluctance.
"You know Sasuke is our neighbour. They're friends, she said. But I don't like their relationship. I'm worried about her, from him," Naruto said, embarrassed.
"Oh Naruto, don't be such an idiot. He is married to Sakura. Why would he look at Hinata? You know Sasuke has no interest in women." Kakashi dismissed the idea, trying to assuage Naruto's fears.
"You are right, he was never interested in women. It's a wonder he married Sakura-chan. Fine, when should I leave?" Naruto asked, his excitement beginning to build.
"You'll be leaving tomorrow morning. Pack your things and be ready. This is an important mission, Naruto. Don't disappoint me," Kakashi warned, as he dismissed the young ninja.
As Naruto left the Hokage's office, he was uneasy about leaving Hinata behind. He told her that he was leaving on a mission and that he would return in a few days, and suggested that she stay at the Hyuga compound until his return. He worried that Sasuke would be around while he was away, and he didn't trust his rival with his wife.
Hinata was confused by Naruto's sudden change in behaviour. She had never been sent away to the Hyuga compound before. She tried to ask him about it, but he brushed her off, saying that he just wanted her to be safe while he was away on his mission.
In the afternoon, Hinata took Boruto and went to the Hyuga compound. Her father was not there and Hanabi was out with her friends, leaving her feeling bored and out of place. She couldn't understand why she had to leave her home, why Naruto didn't trust her or believe in her ability to take care of herself while he was away.
At dinner time, her father arrived with a guest. It was Sasuke Uchiha. She smiled at him, she hadn't seen him for a long time. But Sasuke flinched. He was trying to avoid her. What is she doing here?
They sat down to have dinner. Sasuke was radiant, she had never seen him wearing a Yukata before. He wore a dark blue one with a grey obi. He blushed when he saw her staring at him like that.
"Sasuke-san wouldn't get out of his tower if we didn't drag him," Hiashi said, trying to make him feel at ease. "I know you prefer being alone, but we are family and we enjoy your company."
"Thank you, Hiashi-san. I appreciate it," Sasuke replied, still uncomfortable.
"How do you like the new neighborhood? It's the best, I know, that's why I bought that mansion for Hinata," Hiashi said, proudly.
"It's very nice, just what I was looking for," Sasuke said.
"The mansion is very beautiful and large. It reminded me of our main residence," Hinata said, smiling.
"I'm happy you found a fitting Uchiha residence, Sasuke-san," Hiashi said.
Hinata noticed that Sasuke was still uncomfortable and tried to change the subject.
"Isn't Hanabi returning tonight? She missed dinner time," Hinata asked, trying to make small talk.
Sasuke looked at her, thankful for the change in subject and being released from the spotlight.
"She said she may return late or sleep at her friend's house. Are you staying tonight?" Hiashi asked, turning to Hinata.
"Yes, for a few days. Naruto-kun has a mission and doesn't want to leave me alone," Hinata replied.
"That is a first. You always stay in your house when he goes on missions. I wish he did that more often," Hiashi said, smiling happily at the thought of having his daughter and grandchild around more.
Sasuke narrowed his eyes. What is happening in the head of that loser? First that speech, now sending his wife away.
After dinner, Hiashi insisted that Sasuke drink some sake with him. Sasuke couldn't refuse, and Hinata made tea for them in the tearoom.
After a few hours, Hiashi excused himself to go to bed, and Boruto was already asleep. Sasuke was left alone with Hinata. He stood up and wanted to leave.
"Sasuke, could you please stay a little longer?... I'm bored alone here," Hinata whispered.
Sasuke hesitated for a moment. He didn't want to spend any more time with Hinata than necessary, but he couldn't just leave her alone. He returned to his place next to her.
"What happened to Naruto to send you away?" Sasuke asked, trying to understand the situation.
"I don't know, but he's been acting weird lately. He must be very stressed from work," Hinata replied, shrugging her shoulders.
"Did you read the books I gave you?" Sasuke asked, smirking.
"um… no, um… I didn't have time for them," she hesitated.
"What's wrong?" He noticed her discomfort.
"Naruto-kun found them, he must have seen me carrying them at the party. He took them into custody. And...and?"
"And what?" Sasuke was surprised, his friend was going crazy.
"Uh, nevermind...I guess he was just angry, he doesn't mean it," she said, remembering that Naruto had told her not to talk to Sasuke.
"Angry? About what?"
"He knew you gave me the books and was angry that you gave me that kind of gift," she said, blushing.
"I see." he mumbled, frowning.
After a moment, she asked, "Do you want coffee?" she smiled.
"You don't need to ask," he smirked.
She went to the kitchen.
Sasuke couldn't understand why Naruto was acting this way. Taking the books in custody, sending his wife to her parents house. He knew he had had some naughty thoughts about her and had kissed her multiple times, but he had come to his senses and left her alone. He controlled himself and told himself to stay away from her. Why was Naruto still suspecting him?
Hinata came back with coffee and some tomato crackers she had found in the kitchen. As Sasuke reached for the cup, she noticed that his hand was badly damaged with deep cuts and scratches.
"Sasuke, your hand is badly damaged, how can you move your fingers?" she asked, concerned.
"It's nothing," he said dismissively, it has always been like that from his fire and lightning ninjutsu, but he must have overdone it during his last mission.
"Wait, I think there is some of my ointment. I'll fetch it," she said, getting up to get the ointment.
She brought back the ointment and started treating his bleeding cuts. He jolted at her touch.
"ehm… Hinata stop." he frowned. She doesn't know what she is doing to me with her small soft fingers.
"What is it, Sasuke? Did I hurt you?" she asked, confused.
"No, that is enough, thank you." you're always hurting me.
"Take this with you. I'll make you more, please use it," she said, giving him the container.
"I..I can't use it on my own," he said, irritated.
"Oh Sasuke, please forgive me. How stupid of me. I didn't mean to offend you. But Sakura-chan can," she said, realising her mistake.
"Hm, and don't call yourself that," he said, looking down.
She blushed, embarrassed.
After a moment of silence, she asked, "Umm...how are Sakura-chan and Sarada? I haven't seen them in a long time."
"She moved back to her apartment," Sasuke replied, referring to Sakura.
"What? Why? What happened? Have you been rude to her again?" Hinata asked, concerned.
"Maybe. What you call rude, I call honesty," Sasuke said, shrugging his shoulders.
"Sasuke!!" Hinata pouted, not approving of his attitude.
"We haven't been on good terms like a married couple would be. We could never communicate. I know she loves me. But I can't return her love. I tried, I really tried to love her, to have her as my wife. But I couldn't, or she didn't let me, I'm not sure," Sasuke said, looking away, revealing his true feelings.
Hinata felt sad for him. She held his hand in hers, and he flinched but didn't pull away.
"I don't want you to stay alone in that big mansion," she said, looking at him concerned.
"I'm used to being alone. Loneliness is the only thing I trust," he replied, his voice sad. He caressed her hand with his thumb.
She knew that Sasuke had always been independent and had never relied on anyone for support, so for him to open up to her like this meant a lot.
"Sasuke, there are limits to living alone in this world. I hope you accept the help of good people and help them back in return," she said, trying to give him some advice.
"Are you one of those people?" he whispered in a warm voice.
"I'm far from being good, but I hope so," she said, looking down, feeling humble.
How could 'she' not be good? He looked at her for a long moment. She is the same woman who drove him crazy and made him imagine her in straps and laces, the same woman who made him want to kiss her and devour her body, the same woman who he imagined while touching himself in her bathroom. So many things have changed since that time.
He saw her as a thoughtful caring woman, saw her care for him as injured, saw her being a mother to his child.
His view, opinion and thoughts of her changed so much as he came to know her better. She is so diversent that it confused and challenged him to know what more she has to offer. She was mysterious, attractive and secretive. She doesn't talk much, maybe that is what made her have this enigma around her. And it drew him in.He can't resist the pull of his growing feelings for her. He was not just attracted to her, but he wanted to talk to her and have coffee and tea with her, and to discuss books. He wants to do so many things with her. She was a complex and fascinating individual with her own set of struggles and strengths.
Being with her made him feel at peace, but at the same time, it also sparked a fire within him. She was a new mission, a new challenge in his life. He found himself forgetting about his past desires to kill Naruto and Sakura for thinking they had tamed him, the lone wolf. He forgot his boring life and the prison of a village.He wants to stay... here... with her, to stay by her side. To reveal the secrets she had deep in her. Not that he was interested in secrets. He never was. But he wants to know more about her, to get surprised by challenging things he didn't know about, in this boring timid woman he thought she was.
He was jolted back to reality as he looked at her. "ehm… You said you are bored, because you don't have anything to read, right? Do you want other books?"
Her eyes lit up with excitement. "Do you have other books?"
"hm. I bought a lot of books. You're staying here, right? I'll bring them tomorrow. Can… I see you then?" he asked tentatively.
She nodded, a wide smile spreading across her face. "I'll wait for you to have dinner together!" she exclaimed.
"hm" and he stood up to go home.
He didn't know he'd return home this happy when he came to the compound. Sasuke smiled, feeling a warmth in his heart that he had never felt before. The night would have been so boring if she wasn't there. He couldn't wait to see her tomorrow and to spend more time with her.
PS: sorry Naruto, I know you would never do that.
Thanks for reading. Please leave a comment and let me know what you think.