Hello my lovelies! It's Friday! *cheers* And that means chapter sixteen! I've got a couple of shout outs, and then we'll get started ^_^

The first is for CleverKitten102: Thank you! I'm so happy to hear you like it ^_^ Always makes my day!

And one for hinahyu94: Of course! I felt bad I couldn't message you, so I thought a shout out would be the next best thing XD And I hope you write a fic – that would be great, and I'd have to take a look. I'm honored that my writing is helping to inspire you ^_^ And yes, the kiss FINALLY happened! And I felt bad not promoting Hinata, but I thought that being a teacher would suit her~ And you can say as much as you want – I love hearing back from readers and being able to discuss what I write with them! I'll see you later, and you're welcome ^_^

And another for sayuri: Yes! Finally! XD And I love writing Itachi as such a gentleman – I wish we all had a partner like that! ^_^ I'm glad you enjoyed it – you're welcome!

Well, that's it! Here we go~

~BlackRoseDragon13

*Disclaimer* I do not own, nor claim to own, any aspect of Naruto in any way, shape, or form. This is merely a fan work, and I receive no profit.

Chapter Sixteen

Consciousness prodded at her, begging her to open her eyes. But though something within her told her it was time to rise, she was still so tired. Pinching her eyelids, she willed herself to go back to sleep. But no matter how hard she tried, Hinata was already awake. Admitting defeat, she opened her eyes slowly to see sunlight streaming into her room.

What time was it?

Sitting up, it took her several moments to realize she was still in her clothes from the day before. Why was that? Frowning, she went over her day. There were the results from the exams, but she hadn't passed. Tsunade, however, had offered her a job at the academy, which she had accepted. After that, she came home to tell Itachi, but he was gone. Then there was cleaning, and getting dinner, when she saw Sakura. Home, and then...waiting. Lots of waiting. Did she fall asleep? But she had been on the couch, not in her room. Had Itachi put her there when he got back?

Wait...how did she know he was back? Had he spoken to her? After several more moments, she finally remembered. Blood rushed to her cheeks as the feeling of his lips on hers floated to the top of her memory, images of his eyes looking into hers with a fiery passion...her hands buried in his hair, pulling him closer...

She had kissed Itachi!

...and he had kissed her back.

Embarrassed, she rose from her bed and dressed in new clothes, brushing her hair and hoping she didn't need a shower. For several minutes she paced inside her room, debating if she really wanted to go out into the main part of the apartment. She wanted to see him, but she was also scared. She had been so tired...had she said anything stupid? It seemed like exhaustion always brought out the worst in her, especially when it came to talking. She didn't remember anything like that...but given how tired she was, there may be things she didn't quite recall.

Finally, she managed to convince herself that seeing him was a good thing, and slowly turned the knob of her door, opening it on silent hinges.

She didn't see anyone right away, but that didn't mean she was home alone. Sasuke had a mission, but Itachi surely had some time off after his late night. Trying to be as quiet and unobtrusive as possible, she made her way into the kitchen, seeing it was almost noon. Her tummy growled in agreement, having certainly noticed the late hour.

He wasn't in the kitchen, or seated at the table. But she had a feeling she wasn't alone, and went ahead to make a meal for two.

When she was nearly finished, the sound of a opening door met her ears. She paused in her work, looking toward his bedroom. After several moments, he emerged from the hallway, hair messed from sleep and expression betraying his lingering fatigue.

They locked eyes, and stared.

She could feel that she was blushing, and after a few moments, looked away shyly. Itachi smirked gently, more out of amusement than pride. He joined her in the kitchen, openly watching her work.

His presence made her nervous, and she started fumbling. But when she nearly dropped a dish, he swooped in beside her and caught it, setting it silently back on the counter. "Thank you..." she murmured, still too embarrassed to meet his eyes.

"How are you?" he asked pleasantly, trying to be polite. It was obvious the previous night was on her mind, and he decided to approach the matter slowly.

"T-tired," she answered honestly. "But p-probably not as tired as you."

"Hm, that's true..."

"Now that your m-mission is over...can you t-tell me what happened?"

He glanced at her, seeing that she was looking his way. "I shouldn't...ANBU work is classified."

"Oh...all right. Nevermind."

An awkward silence overcame them as Hinata put all of her concentration into completing the meal. Though the floodgates had technically already been opened, the exhaustion that had clouded it the night before left lingering feelings of doubt. But when Hinata finished cooking, she turned to see the older Uchiha standing right behind her. She jumped, putting a hand to her chest. "Oh, you s-scared -"

She was cut off as his lips captured hers, her resolve instantly melting away. The edge of the counter pressed against her backside, her hands curling over the edge as Itachi's wrapped around her waist. The long locks framing his face fluttered forward to tickle her cheeks, her eyes closed as she let him lead. The strong feeling of yearning just like the night before overcame her swiftly, her lips eagerly parting to once again grant him access. A shudder climbed her spine as his fingers maneuvered under the hem of her shirt, ghosting over her sides and eliciting a soft, gasping moan from the small female beneath him.

He had to suppress a satisfied growl at the sound. Itachi was a gentle soul, but seeing her bowing to his whims, cheeks flushing and lips swelling because of him, eyelids drooping because of him...the urge to dominate and possess, to claim and never let go nearly overtook him. She was what he wanted...the girl who had haunted his dreams whenever nightmares of his clan had subsided. She was his.

But as much as he knew that, his manners and patience insisted that he take his time...that he allow her to choose, and to give her so many reasons to pick him that she couldn't possibly say no. So he lifted his lips from hers, gazing heatedly at her with a smile. "Perhaps you forgot...but you had told me you wished to see me this morning..."

The girl's face was pink with passion, panting lightly as he released her. "Itachi kun..."

"I believe I have made my intentions clear, Hinata chan...but my manners implore me to give you a proper courtship. So...if you have no prior obligations, I would love for you to join me for dinner tonight."

Tucking her long hair behind her ear, she gazed up at him shyly with a smile. "I'd l-love to, Itachi kun."

Happiness flooded him, and he pressed his forehead to hers, eyes closed in contentment. "It's a date, then..."

For several minutes they stood without moving. Now that their feelings were known, finally out in the open, each simply wished to stay in the others company for as long as possible. It didn't matter that they were simply standing in silence – as long as they were together, nothing else could compare.

Is that what love is?

But Hinata gently reminded the man that their food was getting cold, and he released his grip on her. They both carried the dishes to the table, and once they were seated, Hinata remembered her news from the day before.

"Oh! I f-forgot to tell you...I didn't p-pass the exams."

Itachi's eyes widened slightly in shock, and then softened with concern. "I'm sorry, Hinata chan...I thought you would surely make it." But he looked confused as she smiled. "...I take it something happened to make up for the disappointment?"

She nodded enthusiastically. "Y-yes! Tsunade sama offered me a job at the academy teaching the First Years!"

Itachi smiled gently. "That's wonderful! Did you accept?"

"Mhm! I s-start training on Monday, t-tomorrow. I'm nervous, but I'm excited too."

"I'm certain you will make a wonderful teacher. Your patience and kindness ensure it."

She blushed at the praise. "I hope so."

After their meal, Itachi apologized, saying he needed to stop in at the ANBU headquarters to finish up paperwork for the mission the night before. "It will probably take me until dinner. So perhaps we can meet at the restaurant?"

They decided on a place, and then the man changed and went to leave. But as he put his hand on the doorknob, Hinata called for him. Turning, he saw her standing behind him. Shyly, she stood on her tiptoes and placed a gentle kiss on his lips. "I'll be l-looking forward to tonight," she murmured, smiling.

He returned to gesture, leaving against his will. But during the walk to the office he couldn't keep from smiling, finding himself, for the first time, completely and utterly happy.

Once the door had shut behind Itachi and his footsteps had disappeared down the hallway, Hinata squealed loudly and spun in a tight circle. Her heart felt like it was going to explode, but in a wonderful, beautiful way. After getting the initial giddiness out of her system, she tried to calm her breathing and think clearly. What kind of date was he thinking? He had put on a nicer shirt with clean pants, so...what should she wear?

Her closet still held all of the clothes she had had before emancipating herself from the Hyuuga clan, including her fancy kimonos and dresses. But she didn't want anything too showy – just something nice and light. In the end she decided on a dark purple dress, not quite as blue as her hair. It sat at the edge of her shoulders, the neckline swooping from one side to the other, nearly draping off the sides of her arms. It fell to just above one knee on one side, the other a bit shorter. Silver clasps kept the front together all along the middle, the sleeves reaching just below her elbows. She decided to leave her hair down and simple – she had never really done much with it, so trying anything new didn't sound like a good idea. Her usual strap sandals would adorn her feet, the slight heel giving her a small boost in height.

While she waited for her last free day to pass, she did a bit of baking and tidied up, though her cleaning binge the day before had taken care of most of the mess. While her treats were cooking she snuggled down and read a book, feeling completely at ease.

To her surprise, Sasuke returned home not long before she planned to leave, trudging through the door looking completely exhausted. Gazing at him concernedly, Hinata asked, "Sasuke kun, are you all right?"

He gave her a tired look, replying, "Hn...just tired. Had to go spend the day helping some refugees from Ame across the border, settling paperwork and packing their stuff around...nothing too difficult." He perked an eyebrow at her outfit, asking, "Got a date or something?"

She blushed. "Actually...y-yes."

A sly smirk overtook Sasuke's face. "So, aniki finally made his move, huh? About damn time. Well, have fun hime." With that, he waved over his shoulder and disappeared into the bathroom, and she heard the shower turn on a moment later.

Marking her spot in her book, she replaced it before moving to the door, putting on her jacket to keep warm. Itachi had insisted he pay for the meal despite her protests, so she left her money at home.

Her bare, pale legs made her feel self-conscious, and she hurried along to avoid anyone staring. She wasn't ashamed of her body, enjoying her curves, but having others notice always made her nervous. Luckily her coat hid her chest and hips, and she managed to make it to her destination without any mishaps.

The restaurant was warm, and she sighed happily as she stepped inside. The place wasn't anything too fancy, but definitely her style, being more traditional. According to the waitress, Itachi hadn't come in yet, so she asked for a cup of tea while she waited.

I hope his work doesn't keep him late, she thought, sipping at her tea. She was more worried about him losing his time than being late to their date – they could always reschedule. He had been working so hard ever since rejoining the corps, she wanted him to be able to enjoy any time off he could get...especially if it meant spending it with her.

About ten minutes later, two hands rested on her shoulders. Turning, she smiled and said, "I was s-starting to think I might need a rain check."

Taking the seat opposite her, Itachi returned her smile. "My apologies – there was a bit more paperwork than I first assumed."

They ordered their meal, easy conversation flowing between them. She supposed it helped that they had already been together for so long, as well as being through so much together. Even once the food had come and gone, they managed to keep each other talking and laughing, but there was a new undertone to it now that their feelings were all out on the table. The lingering glances and brushes of hands were more open, an aura of intimacy weaving with the happiness and peace.

Though the air outside still had a subtle bite of chill, the couple left the restaurant at a slow pace, deciding to make the most of the walk home. Itachi wrapped one around around Hinata's shoulders, holding her close to his side to keep her warm. She snuggled against him, sighing in contentment as they wove through the village streets. The stars were shining, the clear autumn sky completely cloudless.

"Is there anything else you wish to do, Hinata?" the man asked quietly, glancing down at her.

She met his gaze, thinking. "Um...w-well, it's a bit cool to stay out too long...m-maybe we could go to a dango shop?"

At the mentioning of one of his favorite treats, Itachi smiled. "That sounds like a wonderful idea."

Like the restaurant, the small sweet shop was warmed against the chill, and cozy. Several other people, including couples, were gathered inside to escape the cool air and enjoy the sweet confections. The dark-haired couple took a table in the corner, a plate of the dumplings between them.

"Has Sasuke kun heard anything back about th-the ANBU corps yet?" Hinata asked, nibbling on one treat.

"I'm not sure. It usually takes several weeks of deliberation," Itachi replied. "Being so close to – and hand-picked by – the Hokage, means that each one must be considered carefully. He'll undergo several loyalty tests, questioning, and physical exams to test him. Only the best are accepted."

"But he'll probably make it, won't he?" the girl asked, frowning. "He's so s-strong and smart, I don't see why they would s-say no..."

"The only thing really standing in his way is his...past," Itachi replied quietly. "He left the village, and had to be brought back. But if he can prove that he intends to stay from here on out, then he should have no trouble."

Hinata thought that over. It was true that Sasuke had a bit of a sketchy attendance record, but he had made up for it, hadn't he? The only reason he had left was to hunt his brother. Now that it was over and done with, he had no other reason so leave. Hopefully Tsunade would recognize that.

Their conversation turned to more pleasant things, including Hinata's first day of teaching. During their date she had forgotten her nerves, but once Itachi brought it back up, they returned full force. "I'm excited!" she assured him. "But I've n-never worked much with children..."

"Just treat them kindly, and I'm sure everything will be fine. It will just take time to get adjusted into your new position."

The apartment was dark when they returned, Sasuke having gone to bed early after his tiring mission. Itachi led the girl to the couch, bringing her to his side and feeling her head rest upon his shoulder.

"I had a r-really good time," she said quietly.

"Then I suppose that makes it official."

Cuddles and kisses were exchanged, but nothing very heated. The pair were tired, and decided that going to bed would be the best option. "I have tomorrow off, so I'll be home when you finish your first shift," Itachi promised, smiling at her gently. "I'll be thinking of you."

"Thanks – I'm g-going to need it."

.oOo.

Nerves kept Hinata up, and made her wake up early. She showered and put on her usual work outfit, making sure her hair was in place and that she looked presentable. First impressions couldn't be redone, and she wanted to make sure that hers with the children was the best it could be.

The autumn air smelled sweet as she walked toward the academy. There weren't any children yet making the same trip, but she wanted to be early and have a chance to settle into the classroom before being assaulted with a group of students. It's just basic stuff, she reminded herself. Nothing too complicated...you'll be fine.

The smell of the old building made her smile. Pleasant memories of her own school days filled her head, and she walked slowly through the familiar halls. The murmur of teachers could be heard from their classrooms, and finally Hinata reached the last classroom where the First Years were taught.

Besides shinobi training, children also attended the academy to learn to be a proper citizen, as well as reading, writing, math, and history. First Years' education focused mostly on basic citizenship and an introduction to shinobi life, with the other subjects being taught in the Second Year. At least I know those all well enough. This is going to fun!

Stepping into the classroom, Hinata looked toward the front of the room. There, an old man she recognized was seated at his desk. Sensing her presence, he looked up and gave her a smile. "Hyuuga Hinata," he greeted warmly, standing.

"Toyoshima sensei," she replied, bowing a bit. With a sad smile, she corrected, "It's just Hinata now. I...am n-no longer a part of the Hyuuga clan.

He gave her a sad look in return. "I apologize, Hinata san. I'm sorry to hear that. But you don't have to call me Toyoshima – that was when you were my student. Now it's just Osamu."

"Oh...as you wish, Osamu san."

The old man nodded. "I can remember the days when you were just a fledgling, learning under my guidance. And now Tsunade sama tells me that you will be the one replacing me! How time has flown...you'd be sixteen now?"

"Yes sir, n-nearly seventeen."

"I see...and how long would you like your trial to be? I can stay as long as you need me to until you feel comfortable to teach on your own."

Hinata twisted the hem of her jacket nervously. "W-well, I guess that would depend on how fast I p-pick things up."

"Which I am certain will be quite quickly. So, do you wish to give it a try today?"

"S-sure!"

Osamu gave her a basic rundown of what he did on a daily basis, handing over his master textbook, which was worn with age and looked to be just as old as he. "Just follow this, and you'll be fine. I've used it since my own first day of teaching. There are enough notes in the margins to make another book!" He chuckled. "It's divided by daily lessons, so all you need to do is go over one section a day. And if you fall behind, that's all right. Sometimes the class is a bit slower or faster, but in the end you usually cover enough to suffice by the end of the year. So, I'll let you take over from here, and guide you as you need it." He set up a chair beside her new desk, sitting with a pleasant expression.

She nodded, nerves knotting tightly in her gut. She could do it...she knew she could...!

By the time the first warning bell had rung, she had poured over the day's lesson, making sure she knew everything she would have to cover. Children began to file in, talking and laughing and running. She glanced up at them with a nervous smile, watching them take their seats. A few stared at her questioningly, but most just ignored her. She stood as the last bell rang out, resting her hands on her desk. Clearing her throat, she said, "Class, p-please settle down..."

But she was ignored.

She hesitated. Should she yell louder? She didn't want to appear strict or mean! Glancing at Osamu, she saw him giving her a knowing look before nodding. Sighing, she called out louder, "Class! Attention please!"

Most of them quieted, looking over at her with wide eyes. A few kept talking, but she grinned lightly. "If you can hear me...raise your right hand."

The listening students obeyed, drawing the attention of some of the rowdier kids.

"If you c-can hear me...jump up and down three times."

Eager to get to move around, the kids grinned and did as she said. By then, all of the other children were watching, curious as to what their classmates were doing.

"If you can hear me...sit quietly and look s-straight ahead."

Silence fell over the room. Every pair of eyes was locked on this strange woman. A little girl with choppy white hair and light blue eyes raised her hand, wiggling her fingers eagerly.

"Yes...?"

"My name is Adachi Aiko," she began, her little voice carrying across the classroom. "Who are you?"

"Now now, Aiko chan," Osamu chided lightly. "You must show respect to your new teacher."

Murmurs broke out. She was the new teacher? "Why are you leaving?" a boy with dark red hair asked, green eyes furrowed.

"I am old, Satoshi kun," the man replied. "It is time new blood took my place. This is Hinata san...your new sensei. Once she finishes her trial period, she will be teaching you all by herself. You must be kind and respectful to her so that she will do the same to you."

The kids studied their new teacher closely. "How old are you, Hinata sensei?" a tiny little girl asked.

"I'm sixteen," she replied kindly. "How old are you?"

"Six, but I'll be seven next week!"

Hinata smiled. "I see! W-why don't we go around the room, and introduce ourselves? It might t-take me a little while to learn all of your names, but I w-want to get to know all of you as my students!"

There were about fifteen children, with a few more boys than girls. They all gave their names, as well as any other information they thought their teacher should know: favorite colors, siblings, birthdays, and pets. Once they had all shared, Hinata put a hand to her chest. "My name is Hinata. My birthday is December twenty-seventh, and I'm sixteen. I can still remember what it was like to b-be in this class ten years ago. Toyoshima sensei was my teacher, too! I love the color purple, and making cinnamon buns and p-pressing flowers."

One little girl, who she remembered to be Chika, stood and smiled widely. "Do you love anyone, Hinata sensei?"

The ex-Hyuuga was caught off guard, and hesitated. "I...I d-do!"

"Are you married?" a boy asked, grinning.

A blush slowly began creeping up Hinata's cheeks. "N-no, at least...not y-yet."

"Why not?"

Overwhelmed by the personal questions, Hinata just kept answering. "W-well, I haven't known him l-long enough yet...and I'm t-too young!"

"I have a cousin who's married, and she's sixteen!"

"W-well, that's different..."

"Do you wanna marry him?"

"I...I don't know!"

"But you said you love him!"

Seeing that the girl was becoming flustered, Osamu raised his hands pleadingly. "Now now, children...I believe that is enough questioning for today. Now, we must begin our lesson."

Disappointed sighs filled the room, but Hinata's was one of relief. She had been completely outnumbered! Offering her teacher a grateful smile, she glanced at the textbook and began. "Now, turn to page s-sixty-two...and we'll begin genjutsu!"

The morning hours went slowly, but eventually it was time for lunch. Hinata hadn't packed anything in her hurry, and excused herself to buy some ramen before returning.

"You're doing well," Toyoshima said with a knowing smile. "I'm certain this is the job for you."

She jogged to Ichiraku's, which was one of the closest places. Without looking, she stooped under the banners and stepped inside. "H-hello," she called politely, but paused when she saw a familiar blonde seated at the bar.

Turning, Naruto faced her with a few noodles hanging from his lips. "Hinata chan!" he somehow managed to cry through his mouthful, standing and hugging her tightly. "Hey!"

Coughing as he cut off her air, Hinata gasped, "H-hello, N-Naruto kun...I...I c-can't b-breathe..."

"Oh. Sorry..." he set her down, swallowing and rubbing his neck sheepishly with a grin. "Didn't mean to suffocate you, dattebayo!"

"Th-that's okay!" she replied with a giggle.

"Are you here for lunch?"

"Yes, but then I have to g-get back to the academy."

The blonde gave her a curious look. "The academy? What are you doing there?"

She gestured for him to sit, which he did, while taking a seat next to him. "I got a job being a F-First Year teacher! Today is my first day, and I f-forgot to take a lunch with me."

"Wow, really? That's great, Hinata chan! I can totally see you being a teacher, dattebayo!"

"Really? I've had several people tell me that..."

"Well, sure! I mean, you're patient, and really smart! And I bet you're great with kids! You'd make a great mom, you know that Hinata chan?"

Even though she had moved on from Naruto, and was very much involved with Itachi, the compliment still made Hinata blush. "You...you r-really think so?"

"Definitely, dattebayo! Why don't you tell me about it?"

So, Hinata recapped her morning, telling the blonde what she had done thus far. She left out, however, the kids' inquiries into her personal life.

"Sounds like it's going well," Naruto replied once she had finished.

"It is. I can't w-wait to tell Itachi kun about it when I get home."

A gentle smile overtook Naruto's face. "So, you're still staying with the teme and his brother?"

She blushed. "Y-yes."

"You really like him, huh?"

Knowing he was referring to Itachi, she blushed down at her lap, smiling and nodding. "I d-do..."

"I'm happy for you, Hinata chan. Things really seem to be shaping up for you. I mean...you've been through a lot this year, dattebayo. And...I'm happy to hear you've got someone to love. Someone to be there for you, especially after everything, like your dad and your clan. And I'm sure he's good for you – better than I woulda been, huh?" He laughed.

She giggled. "Don't say that, Naruto kun! You're an amazing person. And I'm h-happy that you and Sakura chan are together, too."

"Yeah...I never thought it would happen, you know?" His gaze softened. "And I'm glad I didn't hurt you – you're an awesome person too, Hinata chan."

They smiled at one another, and Hinata glanced at the clock behind the counter. Eyes widening, she gasped. "Oh my gosh, I'm l-late! Sorry Naruto kun, I h-have to go!" Putting her money on the counter, she called back as she waved, "I'll s-see you later!"

"Bye!" he hollered back, grinning. "Good luck..."

Toyoshima wasn't upset, as she was only a few minutes late. "When you bring your own lunch, it will be just fine." He winked, teasing her.

The rest of the lesson went smoothly, and soon the last bell rang. As the children shuffled to go home, Hinata called. "I'll see you all t-tomorrow! Don't forget your assignment for page seventy!"

Several replied, "Hai!", running out the door and waving. She smiled at them, pride welling in her heart. Maybe things would work out better than she had planned!

Toyoshima smiled at her, standing and clasping his hands in front of him. "You're a natural teacher, my dear. A bit shaky with nerves, but I can tell this position will suit you well, especially as you gain confidence."

"Thank you, Osamu san," she replied, bobbing her head in a small bow. "And thank you for your h-help and guidance."

"Of course! It's my pleasure, Hinata san. I'll see you tomorrow morning."

Hinata brought the large textbook home with her, clutching it to her chest as she walked. She wanted to study it, familiarizing herself with its contents and Toyoshima's notes. She was going to be the best teacher she could be, and that required doing her own homework.

She got home nearly an hour school had gotten out, having spent some time talking with her old sensei. Walking in the door, she called, "Itachi kun?"

He was seated in the living room, looking up as he heard her voice. "In here."

She sat on the couch next to him, snuggling a bit against his side. "W-what are you reading?" she asked softly, seeing the paperback in his hand.

"Oh, just a novel from the compound," he replied. The brothers had salvaged many items of furniture and old belongings from the old Uchiha district, and had slowly gotten used to the items being in their presence again. "Not the best I've read, but it was something to do until you returned. How did it go?"

The girl blushed, smiling shyly. "Good! It was a l-lot easier than I feared, and the kids were well-behaved. I think I g-got lucky with their year."

Itachi smiled. "I'm glad to hear it." Peering at the large tome beneath her arm, he asked, "Is that your text book?"

"Mhm! I w-wanted to go over it some more. I'll probably take it home every night until I g-get better acquainted with it."

"A wise plan."

"Where is Sasuke kun?"

"Hm...I'm not sure. He slept in this morning after his long mission yesterday, but went out without telling me anything. Of course, I'm not about to start intruding on him – he's old enough to do as he pleases."

The pair spent the next several hours reading together – Itachi back to his novel, and Hinata studying her textbook. It was silent save for Hinata pointing out things she hadn't remembered to the man, and his murmured replies. But it was a pleasant quiet, each taking comfort in the others presence.

Sasuke returned not long before Hinata decided to start dinner, shrugging off his jacket and ignoring their looks.

"Hello, Sasuke kun!" Hinata greeted brightly. "W-where were you?"

"Hn...out." he replied with a smirk. "Why?"

"J-just curious." And curious she was. "Are you hungry?"

"Nah, I already ate." With that, he disappeared into his room.

The two remaining roommates glanced at one another. Itachi shrugged, but Hinata pouted softly. What had the younger brother been up to all day? Was he...seeing someone? Sakura was involved with Naruto, and Sasuke had made it quite clear that he wanted nothing to do with the pinkette romantically. Ino was on and off again with Sai, and Tenten was quite smitten with her cousin. There were other girls their age, of course, but none that Hinata knew to any extent. But she knew Sasuke was stubborn, and she probably wouldn't be able to find anything out until he decided to tell her. Sighing, she closed her book and went to the kitchen, starting on a meal for her and Itachi.

They ate together in the dining room, talking quietly and smiling. Hinata felt a little ridiculous at all of her blushing and giggling, but she simply couldn't help it. Things were going so well, and she couldn't think of anything she would change. Itachi was at the center of her happiness, and judging by his sultry gazes, she too was close to his heart. So after doing the dishes and finishing a bit more reading, she went to sleep with a gentle smile on her face.

N'aw...it's always good to end a chapter with some good old fashioned fluff X3 Hinata seems to be fitting into her new job quite nicely! And what is Sasuke up to?

I can't believe there are only three chapters left...it seems like we just started! But, it's been great so far, and I can't wait to hear more from you all ^_^ The seventeenth chapter will be released Monday – see you all then, my lovelies!

~BlackRoseDragon13