5 Star Restaurant
"Itachi, this is the most expensive—"
"I know."
"It'll take you two missions' pay to—"
"I know."
"It's not that special an occasion anyway, I don't mind going somewhere—"
"I know, Neji. Stop complaining. We've been dating six months, and it is customary to do something special."
"So you're just doing this because it's what others do?"
"No, I'm doing it because I care about you."
That made Neji start and look up from where he was staring, wide-eyed, at the discreetly placed prices next to each dish. "You what?"
"I'm not maintaining a relationship with you for your sense of humor, Neji. Pick anything you want, and don't worry about the price. You and the trade are the only things I'll spend money on anymore, and I'd rather it be you."
Wondering if he should feel insulted, Neji went back to perusing the menu, finally selecting something moderately priced (for this establishment, anyway) and closing his menu. Itachi looked at him over the top of his own, then made his own selection. The waiter came over a few minutes later, took their orders and gave them a refill on their drinks, and left. The Uchiha leaned forward on the table, studying Neji's face as he looked around the restaurant. The Fire Bowl was the richest, most expensive place in Konoha, and it was six months to the day of their first date.
"You look like you're about to be attacked. Relax."
Scowling over at him, Neji picked at an imaginary loose thread in the tablecloth. "I could help p—"
"No." Itachi's answer was firm and final. "I've been planning this since your birthday." He reached over and stilled Neji's nervous playing with the linens. "Please enjoy yourself. I dislike seeing you so edgy."
The warmth of Itachi's hand made him stop, breathe, and force each muscle in his body to relax. "Itachi…?"
"Yes?"
"Thank you." The smile Neji got in response made warmth spread all through him.
"You're welcome."