Guess Who's Coming to Dinner?

Hinata took the note from the messenger with a hint of fear. It was from Lady Tsunade. All sorts of things ran through her mind, the first was that Naruto was hurt but it was still early. She was sure they'd left only a few hours ago. With trembling hands she opened and read the short message. A huge sigh escaped her and she sank onto the porch behind her.

"Bad news?" Neji was behind her. He'd seen the tremor in her hands and his own nerves had become taunt with concern.

"What? Oh Neji, no not really." She looked up at him with a soft smile. They weren't close but they were friendly. She would like it if they were more like brother and sister but Neji still acted like she was a little above him in the family hierarchy. He was just as important, if not more so to the family but he didn't see it that way. In her own quiet way she was working on him. "It's from Lady Tsunade. She wanted to let me know; Naruto wouldn't be free until this evening and to meet him at Ichiraku's." She explained quickly when Neji's frown deepened. "Their mission wasn't supposed to last all day so something must have come up."

Neji watched the expressions on Hinata's face. It was a surprise how well he knew her. Over the years whether because of misplaced hate or curiosity, he'd watched her and learned her mannerisms to almost know exactly what she was thinking. He moved to sit down next to her.

"I'm sure he's fine. Naruto won't let anything happen– he wants to be with you too." He grinned at her blushing cheeks. "I am curious, how did Lady Tsunade know to send you this note? Is she aware that you guys are dating?" The Hokage of the village is very important and very busy, why would Lady Tsunade take the time out to write a note on something so mundane? It was Hinata's delighted giggles that made Neji look up in surprise.

"I can't believe there's something you do not know!" Hinata scooted closer and whispered like it was a big secret. "Lady Tsunade and Naruto are the best of friends! No she's more like his foster mother! Yes!" She nodded still laughing at Neji's wide eyes.

"His foster mother? The Hokage?" Neji did feel like a fool and Hinata's smiling face wasn't helping. But then he remembered that Naruto had spent time with her before she became Hokage, they must have formed some kind of connection back then and somehow he'd missed the fact that they were close at all. Neji had to grin though because it was Naruto. That guy could do some of the most amazing things.

"Okay then, why aren't you more nervous about dating him? She's the Hokage Hinata!" He raised his eyebrows and leaned closer to her.

Hinata met his forehead with her own and sighed. "I am. Just yesterday I told her that we were dating. I almost melted into the ground! But she seemed to take it well. Naruto said she was just 'Grandma Tsunade,' he doesn't fear her at all."

Neji winced and tried not to laugh, "He calls her Grandma Tsunade!" He couldn't hold it in and laughed which got her laughing too. Somehow he ended up with Hinata's head on his shoulder. It was weird but nice. "Well if Naruto doesn't fear her, then you shouldn't either."

"I'm trying not to but I guess I can understand what he's going through. He's worried about meeting Father and I think how I would feel if I had to sit down at a table with the Fifth and talk about how much I like her foster son and how I'll be good to him." Hinata shivered. "I feel sorry for Naruto."

Neji laughed again. "He is nervous, nervous enough to ask some of us what to do. Not sure we helped him any but he listened and even took notes! He really wants things to go well. Poor guy." Neji felt for him and was glad not to be in his sandals.

"Neji! Come to dinner! Please, if someone else is there, it might make things better. Father won't focus solely on Naruto and Naruto will feel more at ease if a friend was there. Neji, pretty please!" Hinata gripped him by the shoulders and shook him.

He wanted to say no. No way. He'd planned on watching, well spying but not maliciously. He too wanted Naruto to impress Lord Hiashi but to actually be there and deal with what he was sure would be awkward silences; Neji wanted no part of that.

"Hinata…." As he stared at her, water welled up in her eyes and one lone tear slipped down her face. "That's an unfair and sneaky thing to do! Yes dammit, I'll come!" He knew the tears were false, Hinata wouldn't cry over this but still the fact that she would dredge them up meant that this was important to her. "Ugh!" He fell back hard against the floor as she jumped him.

"You're the best, brother!" Hinata kissed both cheeks then laughed down at his rueful expression.

"My I come too big sister?" A small voice asked from the doorway.

They turned to see Hanabi watching them hopefully then looked back at each other. What to do now?

"You sure are going to a lot of trouble don't you think?" Shizune asked as several proprietors walked in carrying garment bags. She thanked them and told them the un-purchased goods would be returned first thing in the morning and they would be given something for their time and trouble.

"Nope. This is kind of fun and if it helps him, why not? Relax Shizune, I'm ahead onall of my paperwork for today sofor afew hours," Lady Tsunade grinned evilly. "His father and I are going to teach Naruto manners and help him choose an outfit to wear."

Shizune had to laugh. It was rare to see Tsunade so happy and upbeat. She decided to let it go for the lady had donea great deal ofwork and nearly cleared off her desk – nothing to complain about really. Just then there was a knock at the door and she went to answer it. Shizune's laugh echoed in the hallway.

Iruka's hair was messy, there were bags under his eyes and he looked a little gray. Lady Tsunade had told her what she'd done to the poor man and it looked like he hadn't gotten over it yet.

She turned at Shizune's laugh and had to stifle her own. Instead she went to Iruka and pulled him by the hand into the room. "Dear, you don't want to frighten our boy looking like that! Now come here." She forced Iruka to sit then wedged herself between his legs, pulled his face into her boobs and proceeded to fix his hair.

"Mmmf! Mmladyy!" Iruka tried to raise his head, only to have it stuffed once again into the fragrant, soft flesh of Tsunade's bosom.

"You can go now Shizune." She told her laughing assistant. "We want to be alone, don't we darling?" She finally allowed Iruka to breath as she held his head tenderly between her hands.

"Yes my lady! Have a good time Iruka!" Shizune was hurting herself laughing as she left them.

"Lady Tsunade! Please!" Iruka pushed her away and stood abruptly. "There's only so much I can take! Let's just focus on Naruto! Naruto!" He paced the room trying not to look at Tsunade.

Last night when she'd come to his place -she'd attacked him sexually! She'd put her hands on his chest and nipples. She'd run her hands over shoulders and arms! She'd even slipped her fingers beneath his PJs and stroked his sensitive hipbones then said, "I've come to talk about Naruto. We need to help him impress Lord Hiashi or at least get the man to treat him fairly. So have I got your attention? Good, got any sake?" Then she'd left him all hot and bothered while she relaxed on the couch like nothing had happened!

He'd barely been able to focus on anything she'd had to say to him and after she'd left, he'd needed several cold showers. He wondered if that was payback for the failed talk with Naruto. Dammit all, he'd dreamed about her! Had been horny all damned day and she acted like it was nothing! Iruka finally noticed the clothes around the room and didn't look at his boss.

"All this for Naruto? It's just one dinner." There were several kimonos and other casual clothes suitable for a nice dinner plus other stuff - a whole wardrobe.

"Yeah, I couldn't resist. I was looking for a nice kimono then I realized he didn't have much more than his ninja outfit and thought he could use a few more things. He can pick out the things he likes and I'll send back the rest. Sort of like long overdue Christmas presents." Tsunade looked up at him with affection in her eyes.

It was hard to stay mad when she looked like that. Iruka nodded and wondered why he'd never thought to take Naruto shopping. He didn't think he'd ever seen the boy in more than that orange outfit over the last few years. "I'm sure he'll be glad to have some new clothes now that he's got a girlfriend." Iruka agreed and they shared a smile.

Kakashi was on time for a change and they took off shortly after that. The sun had yet to rise so they traveled by waning moonlight. Kakashi, Naruto, Sakura and bringing up the rear Sasuke. There was no talking as they hurried through the forest to make better time than traveling the road. They were to be protection for a meeting between two ambassadors from neighboring villages. The ambassadors had their own protection of course but the Land of Fire's leaders wanted Leaf shinobi there to help keep the peace. If the meeting went well they could leave as soon as it was over.

Sakura watched Naruto's back the whole way trying to think of ways to get him to talk to her. Neither he nor Sasuke had said a word to her when they'd joined her by the gate that morning and before she could try, Kakashi-sensei had come along. The day before was still a bad memory so Sakura had to come up with something to get Naruto to pay attention to her. Sometime today, Naruto would talk to her!

"This is going to be boring isn't it?" Naruto asked looking at the finely dressed men and women in the large conference room.

"Probably but it's our job to listen and pay attention for anyone threatening to become violent. Look angry or mean so they know we mean business." Kakashi said then looked at Sasuke. "Just act and look like him, that should do it!" He said with a hint of humor.

"Huh, look whose talking. You look a little worse for wear Kakashi. Stay up late reading?" Sasuke drawled and got a laugh from Naruto.

"Nope, he wasn't reading! Were you Kakashi-sensei?" Naruto knew he hadn't been reading since Grandma Tsunade had taken away his precious book.

"No and it's all your fault Naruto!" Kakashi pointed a long finger at him only to have Naruto shrug carelessly.

"What's going on?" Sasuke let curiosity take over and looked from man to teen.

Naruto stepped back when Kakashi approached him menacingly but he smiled over at Sasuke, "I'll tell you later. It's damned funny too!"

"What about me? I wanna know too!" Sakura stood next to Sasuke smiling.

It was instantaneous. The smile, the laughter disappeared. Naruto looked up at Kakashi, "I'm going to bathroom then I'll be outside until the meeting starts. See you." Without another word, he turned and left the room.

Kakashi faked a shiver. "What the hell was that? You two have an argument or something?" His mood perked up thinking this mission might not beso boring if he had to be a mediator for his team.

"How can we have an argument when he won't talk to me? Honestly Kakashi-sensei, how am I supposed to apologize to him if he won't let me!" Briefly she told him what was going on with Sasuke nodding to confirm.

"I see." Kakashi said quietly and rubbed his chin. Personally he thought this was long overdue but he couldn't afford them to be at odds with each other. "Leave him alone Sakura. Things will get better soon."

"What? How can you say that? He won't speak or look at me! Won't that affect the team? Say something to him! Get him to listen to me! Can't you make him at least not be so cold to me?" She stamped her foot in frustration.

Both Sasuke and Kakashi raised their eyebrows at her demand and laughed. "You want me to force Naruto to be nice to you so you can feel better? How old are you Sakura?" Kakashi put his hands on his hips and leaned closer to her.

"Wait, so you would rather Naruto lie to you about how he feels than actually be someone he trusts? I thought you wanted to be his friend." Sasuke's disbelieving voice asked. "You're something else Sakura and not anything good." He shook his head.

Sakura couldn't believe how bad things were turning out. Again she had handled things badly and now the rest of her team thought she was a selfish, childish idiot. "I'm sorry, that's not what I meant at all." She spoke quietly trying not to cry. "I just thought you could help me talk to him is all Kakashi-sensei."

He sighed heavily. It seemed this was more her problem than Naruto's but he didn't want Sakura this upset either. "It's Naruto Sakura. He prefers being happy. Life's been hard for him – always, that's why he purposely stays upbeat. He works at it – hard. He won't be able to hold this grudge for long. You hurt him, that's fact and he doesn't know how to deal with that because he still thinks of you as a friend. He wants you to hurt a little, but it won't last." Kakashi crossed his arms.

"Don't worry about the team, if that's what you're thinking. Unlike what you may think of Naruto, he won't let this stop him from doing his job." Sasuke stepped closer to Sakura. "He is a shinobi – it's all he's ever wanted. If you were attacked right now this minute – he'd die to save you. Get over yourself Sakura, not everything revolves around you." Having said his say, Sasuke looked to Kakashi, nodded and left the room.

Kakashi sighed again and scratched his head. "Well, he's right. I wouldn't have said it like that but let it go Sakura. Let Naruto be mad at you for a while then when he's over it, he'll apologize to you knowing him and everything will be back to normal. All right?" He put on a cheery expression for her then patted her head. "Come on, we should hit the bathrooms too before this thing gets started and check this place over." Kakashi escorted a sullen Sakura out the door. Once outside he heard Naruto's distinctive laugh and Sasuke's surprised voice. "What did he tell you?"

Sakura watched as Kakashi hurried over to the guys to see what they were talking about. Naruto's face was bright with laughter as he dodged around Kakashi to hide behind Sasuke. Sasuke said something then grabbed Naruto and leaped out of the way when Kakashi charged them. Was she selfish and childish? Naruto led a difficult life. It was true. He was alone in the world. Had she unknowingly made his life worse? Confusion and loneliness ruled her thoughts. She wanted to join them and share in their laughter but somehow she didn't think she deserved that right now.

Sighing she headed for the bathroom to shed a few tears and think. She would leave him alone, it's what they thought would be best and doing anything else would only make them think less of her. "Time, he needs time and I need to grow up a little I guess." Sakura spoke to her reflection then straightened her shoulders. She was on a mission and needed to be a shinobi now and not a whining little girl. "Right!" Nodding she left the bathroom to join her team.

Naruto kept his mind occupied with remembering the things Grandma Tsunade had taught him about how to act at a table. No bending too close to the table. No loud slurping and don't stuff food into my mouth like I'm starving. Wait until Lord Hiashi begins to eat before eating. Damn, I hope I get to sit next Hinata so she can remind me of this stuff! He looked up when somebody got loud. He checked with Kakashi and Sasuke who were both using their Sharingan to keep track of everyone's actions. Sasuke nodded discreetly at one man and Naruto focused his blues to that man.

He was tall, taller than Kakashi and looked hard. Obviously things were not going his way and he banged hard on the table. Words were harsh and spoken quickly back and forth across the table when suddenly the man lunged.

There was chaos. The Leaf shinobi went into action. Kakashi went for the tall man. It appeared the man knew some taijutsu but was no match for the Jonin. Sakura went to protect the intended victim. Sasuke and Naruto went to hold back the other ninja before things could get out of hand. The boys saw the most action for ninja didn't like to be interfered with. Sasuke was quick to disarm two of them and hold them at bay. Naruto unfortunately had three to deal with. One he knocked out with one punch. The other two worked as a team using wires. Naruto was caught around one wrist and his throat. It was his anger that got him loose. Using the wire around his wrist, he pulled on it and kicked his assailant in the stomach taking care of him. Blood oozed down his chest from the choking wire. A growling Naruto leaped forward and beat the other ninja into the floor.

Silence as everyone stared at the bloody teen. He stood and pulled off the wires then threw them on top of the adult ninjas he'd incapacitated. "Kakashi-sensei, may I go cleanup or should I take out the trash?" He asked calmly.

Kakashi just smiled. Naruto was getting stronger. "Go cleanup first. Good job Naruto."

"Sure." He nodded then stepped over the bodies. Walking by Sasuke he quietly told the other boy to shut up when Sasuke told him he was too damned messy. Naruto left the room not realizing that many of them now feared and respected the blond who'd seemed weak at first glance.

"Thanks to that little incident, things went much quicker after that. Good show Naruto." Kakashi walked with his arm resting on Naruto's shoulder.

"Yeah but one of you could have warned me that they used wires. Blood's so hard to get out! And what if these marks don't go away before Friday? I promised Hinata I wouldn't mess things up. Bandages and scars are so damned noticeable!" Naruto rubbed at the bandage around his left wrist.

"You heal quickly; I don't think you have anything to worry about." Kakashi said dryly. "What's Friday?"

"Dinner with Lord Hiashi. Wish him luck!" Sasuke laughed.

"Oh well, good luck Naruto!" Kakashi laughed too and wondered where that precocious kid he knew at twelve had gone. He was standing at his shoulder, he had a girlfriend and his strength and power had both grown. Next to him was just a hint of the man he would become. Kakashi found he was looking forward to seeing that man.

"Got any advice – good advice this time?" Naruto couldn't help but share a grin with the man. He told Sasuke about the book being taken away but not everything leading up to that.

The journey home was slower and friendlier. The guys talked about the mission, Naruto's dinner with Lord Hiashi and how he should act but mostly they just kidded around. Sakura walked and watched and was surprised. They were close, the three of them. Was it because they were guys and she a girl? Or had she been blind and missed everything that had gone on since the team was formed? Now she realized the truth Sasuke had been trying to tell her, Kakashi-sensei too. Because she was the only female, she had tried to garner all the attention but that was wrong -she was apart of a team not the center! She'd learn about them, for these men she did not know.

Sakura smiled and felt some of the sadness leave her. She had faults and had made bad assumptions and hurt those closest to her. She would be a better friend to them all! Looking up at the sky, she listened with a smile on her face as Kakashi requested that Naruto find out as many secrets as he could about the Byakugan. Naruto would forgive her and maybe Sasuke would finally see her as someone he could like. The person she was before had gained his dislike and disdain. She would be someone, she hoped, he could love. Hope shone on that walk home.

It was late afternoon so he didn't go home but headed for Grandma Tsunade's. He wanted her to look at his injuries to be sure they would heal. Yeah, the fox healed him quickly most times but he didn't want anything else to worry about. He probably should have changed clothes though. There was dried blood all around the collar of his shirt and jacket. Naruto grimaced and ran up the steps looking forward to spending more time with Tsunade.

He brushed off his clothes and tried to fix his hair before giving her door three sharp knocks.

"Grandma Tsunade? You ready for me? Hey! Whoa, what's all this?" Naruto had been in the process of peeping in the room when his eyes caught sight of clothes everywhere. His face conveyed his dismay at what he saw. "It's just one damned dinner! I don't need all this – do I! How long is it supposed to last! Five days?" Naruto stood in the doorway, hands on his hips.

Amused laughter met his questions. Tsunade gestured for him to enter the room.

"Huh? Iruka-sensei, you're here too? What's with all the clothes?"

Iruka had to go get him since Naruto seemed reluctant to enter the room. "Looks like you saw some action today. Lady Tsunade, you might want to check this out." Arm around Naruto, he ushered the boy to the Fifth.

"Oh, Naruto. It seems you're always getting hurt. Don't you want to make a good impression? Showing up in bandages doesn't necessarily speak well for you." She unwrapped the one around his neck first and grimaced. The wound around his wrist wasn't much better. "Stay there; let me get something for it."

Naruto felt a little weird. Iruka-sensei still stood next to him and Grandma Tsunade spoke sharply but her touch was extra gentle. When she returned, she spread some tingly medicine on him then used some kind of healing jutsu to energize it. He could actually feel something happening. "That tickles." He squirmed.

"Hold still son and let her finish." Iruka said watching the red, angry wounds almost completely disappear.

He blinked and looked up at Iruka. He'd called him son. Had he ever done that before? It was…nice. Very nice. Naruto stood a little straighter and felt Iruka squeeze his shoulder.

"There! All done. Your own healing powers will take care of the rest and you'll be as good as new by tomorrow. Naruto, why not go shower before trying on some of these clothes? That shirt's gotta feel awful with all that blood on it." Tsunade plucked at it then patted his chest affectionately.

"Umm, yeah – what's with all these clothes?" He asked again but didn't move. He had a mother in front of him and a father at his side. Why would he ever want to move?

"You need a new wardrobe not just something to wear to dinner. Don't you want Hinata to see you in something besides the same old outfit? Especially when you're out on dates and not just training?" Iruka grinned at him.

"I guess so…but all this?" Literally, there were clothes all over the place.

"Man you can be dense! We'll help you pick out some and send the rest back! Now go to my bathroom and shower. There's an extra robe in there and hurry back or you'll be late meeting Hinata." Tsunade now stood with her hands on her hips and she grinned as he looked at the time.

"Got it! I'll be right back!" He ran to the door but turned before exiting. "You'll be here when I get back?" He asked of Iruka.

"I'll be here, no place I'd rather be. Go on and shower now." Iruka smiled at him and shooed him out the door.

Naruto looked from one to the other, smiled like he won the lottery, nodded and ran off.

"He's acting like we were giving him the world." Iruka said as he sat down with a warm feeling in his chest.

"I guess in some small way, we are giving him the world. At least a world he's never had before. Feels good doesn't it Dad?" Tsunade stood next to him and patted his back.

"Oh yeah, Mom, really good." The parents shared a moment.

"Good timing!" Naruto said as he met Hinata in front of Ichiraku's. He reached for her hand. "What is it?" He asked with a grin but he knew.

Hinata blinked several times. She was very surprised to see Naruto in different clothes. He had on khakis and a blue shirt that matched his eyes. It was simple but she was impressed with how good it looked on him. Smiling, "You look great! Is that where you've been, shopping?"

"Kinda. Figured that since I'd wear something different to dinner on Friday that I might as well get some other clothes too." He said borrowing Grandma Tsunade's excuse. "That's still on isn't? Dinner?" He asked hoping Lord Hiashi had something else to do.

"Yes silly, Father's looking forward to it." She laughed at him. Hinata debated on whether telling him that Neji was going to be there too would make him feel better or not but she never got the chance. The food came quickly and they started talking about his mission and other stuff. She'd tell him later.

"So she just backed off? Didn't try to get in your face again?" Hinata asked before taking a mouthful of ramen.

"Yeah, it was weird but a relief. I still don't know how to deal with her." Naruto stared off into space for a moment then shook his head. "Never mind Sakura. So your mission will last all day, you think?" He watched her chew thinking she was cute.

"According to Kurenai-sensei, yes. It will take at least four hours to get there, and then the mission will last for several hours, after that then we have the trip back. It will be late maybe nine or ten o'clock before we get back. We won't get to spend any time together tomorrow." Hinata sighed.

"No I guess not." Both were silent as they contemplated a whole day without seeing the other. Naruto took her hand, "How about I come by and give you a goodnight kiss? I won't stay long but I'd like to see that you're home safe and you'll be too busy Friday for us to get together won't you?"

Hinata's heart fluttered. He would miss and worry about her and wouldn't rest without seeing her! "Come to the side gate, around the corner on the left. It's closer to my room." She said quietly with a smile.

"Okay." He retuned her smile.

"I'll be up early cleaning and going over the menu Friday but maybe we could meet at noon and go out to our spot for an hour or so. But I can't promise that!"

Naruto leaned forward to kiss her cheek but their lips managed to brush against each other. "I'll take it! You know, I think I can eat another bowl. More please!"

"Me too please!" Hinata piped up and got laughs from both Naruto and Ichiraku.

"I appreciate the business but don't let him influence your eating habits!" Ichiraku warned with a mock frown.

"I won't but I'd really love another bowl please." Hinata grinned.

"That's my girl. My girl." Naruto repeated then stole another kiss as Ichiraku hummed happily while he prepared their food.

The next day while Hinata was on her mission, Naruto trained a little then spent the rest of the morning reluctantly helping Iruka-sensei with his class then the afternoon with Lady Tsunade. It was work but more fun than they thought it would be – spending all that time together. Iruka showed up after classes and also worked with Tsunade to try and tame Naruto's exuberance. Not to rid him of it but tone it down a little. Since Naruto knew he wouldn't see Hinata until late that night, he spent a nice evening with two people who doted on him.

Long before the sun was even a thought, Hinata and her team left the village. She'd slept little but felt ready for anything. Throughout the day she could tell that her teammates were surprised by her energy and participation in everything. Normally they divided up tasks but Hinata found ways to help and make things easier on everyone.

"You guys ready for tomorrow?" Kiba asked stroking Akamaru on the head. "Naruto's insides are probably nothing but jelly!"

"Kiba, my father's not that bad!" At least she hoped not. Hinata was doing her best not to think about tomorrow, at least not while they were on this mission.

Squad Eight was on a break. In a couple of hours, they would reach the village where their job was. Kurenai watched Hinata closely. The girl had changed. She was more womanly now. Apparently being with Naruto had brought out that extra feminine side that all women had when they liked a man. Not only that but her strength and stamina had improved as well. Naruto was having a good effect on Hinata in many different ways. It made her wonder, what kind of changes Naruto had gone through. It was hard to picture him as more as than loud-mouthed, show-off she was used to.

"Well it will be interesting to say the least." Shino said in his quiet way. "I wouldn't mind being a fly on the wall at that dinner."

"Hey, can you do that? Turn into a fly?" Kiba asked excitedly. "Or send in one of your bugs to listen?" He laughed evilly.

"No! Don't do that! Please Shino. If I think you're listening to everything that's going on and Father or Naruto found out…!" Hinata's hands covered her cheeks in horror at the thought of what either of them would do.

"Hush Kiba! Stop teasing her." Kurenai said, though she was smiling.

"Don't worry Hinata, I would never do that despite the obvious temptation and I too would not want to receive either Lord Hiashi's or Naruto's wrath." A frown could just be seen over the teen's high collar.

"Really? You won't try to eavesdrop or anything?" Hinata's hands left her face to settle over her heart.

"I wouldn't eavesdrop but Kiba here – there's no telling what he will do. Akamaru does understand human speech after all. He could send him in." Shino joined in the teasing.

"Yeah why didn't think of that? You'll do it for me, won't you buddy?" Kiba turned the little dog towards him.

"Arf, arf!" Akamaru agreed.

"Kiba, no! Akamaru you wouldn't do that to me would you? If you do I won't make any more of that flea cream you like!" Hinata was on her feet pointing sternly to the dog.

Akamaru whined and looked from his master to Hinata. He squirmed away from Kiba and inched to Hinata's feet where he rubbed his body against her lovingly.

Kiba's mouth dropped open to see his best friend leave him for Hinata. "Akamaru! You'd give me up for some flea cream! That's sad, damned sad!" He was embarrassed as his team laughed at him.

Hinata picked up Akamaru and cuddled him. They'd teased herbut it was all in fun and she'd turned things around on Kiba. That wasn't something she could do before. Naruto must be rubbing off on me! That thought had her laughing even more.

That night they didn't even speak to each other. His hand reached for hers and pulled her to him. Naruto held her close, pleased to see her safe. Large hands felt her shoulders, back and hips – nothing broken or bruised. He let his nose find her scented neck and rested there for a moment. Hinata wrapped her arms around his lean hips and pressed close to him. Finally he raised his head to stare down at her. Those lavender eyes glowed up at him. Smiling he lowered his head until their lips touched. Silently they kissed. It was sweet but heated at the same time for neither of their hands could be still. It seemed like they were outside of time as they kissed and touched but a sound from out in the street had them parting abruptly. Both tracked the sound to a stray cat that mewed at them softly causing them to relax and laugh breathlessly. Looking back at each other they shrugged and shared one last kiss before Naruto stepped away from her. They parted as they met – hands withdrawing from each other and smiles on their faces.

Hinata woke early and had breakfast with her father and confirmed their plans for that night. It was hard to swallow her food for all the butterflies in her stomach. Seeing her nerves, Lord Hiashi decided to find things to do in the village and left shortly. Hinata drafted Neij and Hanabi into helping her clean and cook since they would be a part of the dinner as well. She concentrated on the food wanting to prepare much of it herself so that Naruto would have food that he liked. Also Naruto had a big appetite and she wanted to be sure to make enough for him and the other mouths she had to feed.

Cleaning and prep work took the whole morning and she kept watch on the clock for when she could go meet Naruto. "No nibbling! If you guys want a snack – go out and get it! I mean it - Neji, Hanabi!" Hinata's voice meant business as she stared them down.

"Yes ma'am!" They said solemnly but grinned when she turned and ran out of the house.

"Shouldn't we test some of this stuff?" Hanabi asked a big smile on her face.

"No! Come on I'll treat you." Neji grabbed the girl's hand and pulled her out of the house. "Your sister will never forgive you or me if we mess up anything." It was really funny how uptight she was about this dinner but he was glad he was just a guest and not the one full of expectations. He still wished that he could just spy on them but it was too late to back out now. Actually, thinking of all that food Hinata had prepared, he wondered if even half of it would get eaten.

Naruto left Lady Tsunade's office at a run to meet Hinata. They would have about an hour together before she returned to finish cooking and dressing for dinner. He would go back to Grandma Tsunade's and get more tutoring from her and Iruka-sensei. Last night he'd dreamed that he'd spilled food all over himself then Lord Hiashi and made Hinata cry. He'd woken up in a cold sweat.

First thing he'd done was go to Grandma Tsunade. He actually beat her to her office and while she worked he mimicked eating properly while she yelled out advice every so often. And he could barely even eat real food. Nerves were ruining his appetite. What if he couldn't eat anything at all after Hinata had gone through so much trouble to cook for him!

He arrived at their spot and she wasn't there. Before he could be disappointed, she dropped from a tree branch to stand before him.

"Hi."

"Hey."

Even now they were a little wary of each other. But that lasted only a minute before Naruto took her hand and walked to a tree, sat and pulled her down to his lap. It was just what the other needed and they held onto each other. For an hour they rested together and offered the other the strength they would need to get through this day.

"Man it feels like the world will end if things don't go right tonight! What happens if…if he can't accept me?" Naruto asked quietly.

Hinata shook her head against his chest. "He just has to! I won't think or believe anything else!" She found some bare skin and pressed her cheek against it to feel his warmth and the pulse of his blood. "You have to believe it too Naruto. Say everything will be fine…please." She begged.

Naruto held her tighter, reluctant to speak. He knew all too well Lord Hiashi's argument that they shouldn't be together and he was at a loss on how to change the man's mind. After all this mess, he decided that if they were allowed to stay together, he would have to tell Hinata the truth and really let her decide if she could still love him and the Nine-Tailed fox inside him. As bad as this was, that would be the real test of their love. "Everything will be fine." He raised her head and managed a smile for her. "Nothing can stop the two of us, right?"

She could see his doubts but he was willing to go through this and try for her. It was enough. "Absolutely. I love you Naruto." She held a hand against his cheek and kissed him.

"And I you Hinata."

"How do I look?" Naruto asked of his parents. He was ready to leave for Hinata's but he wanted some reassurance from them.

"You look good son. Very nice. Right Lady Tsunade?" Iruka stood at her side as they looked Naruto over.

"Perfect. Now these are for Hinata. You're sure she likes these flowers right?" At his nod, she handed him a fresh bouquet then picked up a nicely wrapped bottle. "And this is for Hiashi. I know he enjoys a little sake every now and then. Any questions?" Tsunade checked his face for nicks – Iruka had been teaching him how to shave and straightened his collar.

"Tons but it's time to go." Naruto sighed heavily. "Wish me luck?" He asked tilting his head to one side.

He looked too precious to her and Lady Tsunade cupped his face and gave him a kiss on the lips. "Good luck and try to have fun." She didn't want him to go but he wasn't a baby and Hinata was important to him so he had to.

Iruka joined them. "You don't need luck because you can handle it. You're a man Naruto. Just stand tall and tell Lord Hiashi that. He has to like you because he doesn't have a choice!" He clapped Naruto on the back.

Naruto could never remember anyone standing behind him like this and he was grateful and proud that he had them. Some small part of him wished that they could go with him but Iruka-sensei was right – he was a man and he had to face this on his own. "Thanks you guys. I'll be by tomorrow to tell you how it went – if I survive!" Naruto tried to joke but it wasn't very funny. Flowers and sake in hand, he went to the door and looked back for one last time, taking in their smiling faces. "See ya." He left.

"This is hard. Damned hard, how do parents do this stuff?" Tsunade dropped into a chair once Naruto was out of earshot.

"I got no clue." Iruka went to the window to watch him. "I wish there was more we could do." He sighed as that blond head disappeared from sight.

"…Maybe there is." Tsunade said a sly smile appearing on her face.

Iruka looked over at her and felt his stomach clench. Uh-oh!

The walk to Hinata's surprised Naruto. It was the same path he always took but along the path he saw Lee and Tenten then Shikamaru and his team. A little further down he came across Kiba and Shino. It made Naruto laugh and lifted his spirits because they all wished him good luck. Along the last stretch of road, Sasuke appeared by his side.

"Don't laugh too loud and talk calmly if you can." His dark head turned to Naruto and there was a smile on his face. "Even if you can't do that, I'm sure it will be fine."

Naruto blinked at him. "Thanks Sasuke." They were approaching the main gate now.

"…If you need to, not that I think you will, you can stop by my place after. I'll be up." Sasuke offered. If Naruto needed a friend because Lord Hiashi rejected him, he would be there for him.

Those words stopped Naruto in his tracks, temporarily making him forget his nerves. "…You'd do that? Be there…if I need…you?" He tried not to sound disbelieving but he'd never thought Sasuke would do something like this for him.

Sasuke managed a small smile and a laugh. "Sure, that's what friends are for, right?"

Naruto let out a breathless laugh. "Yeah, friends. Thanks Sauske." He held out a hand and the two shook firmly. "Gotta go. Maybe I'll stop by either way, okay?"

"Like I said, I'll be up. Come on by. Go on, don't keep her waiting." It was a full smile this time as he pushed Naruto on his way.

Sasuke felt good going to Naruto to like that. He hoped things went well for him and that he didn't get his feelings hurt by Lord Hiashi. By all appearances, the man looked stiff and not very forgiving. Well, he'd know by later tonight whether Naruto would be able to weather the storm called Lord Hiashi. He was headed back to his place when two figures came his way. Sasuke stopped in shock.

Lady Tsunade and Iruka-sensei were dressed like they were going out on a date but there were no restaurants near here. In fact the only place left along this street was the Hyuga house where Naruto was having dinner. "Umm, good evening Lady Tsunade." He spoke softly and nodded to the man at her side.

"Uchiha Sasuke. I know you have questions but you'll just have ask Naruto for the details later. Tell no one you saw us. We're going to support Naruto at this dinner. All right?" Tsunade spoke as the Hokage now.

Sasuke got over his shock and grinned at them. Now he couldn't wait for Naruto to come to his place! "Yes ma'am. I think he'll be pleased and relieved to see you both. Have a good time." He bowed to both of them and watched them walk to the Hyuga's main gate. "If I didn't think I'd get caught spying…!" Laughing, Sauske went home to make popcorn.