OH GOSH MY HAND ARE DEAD BECAUSE OF THIS CHAPTER (you guys BETTER enjoy it xP). I like it a lot though. And just a thought, there's lots of fluff ahead. Lots. for me it's lots, cause I'm the type of person that likes to dive head first into romance haha. proper romance next chapter. i promises, though not much luls. Hidan is slowly winning Hinata over. this thing is 16 pages long (dies). ENJOY!! (reviews make me write faster LOL. proven fact. look at chatper 1 xP) by the way. I tried to make Sasuke less of jerk, because i honestly never intended to make him a jerk until later. grr.

Chapter 3: I'm stuck

Hinata was holding her head high, a sign to Sasuke that she didn't want to talk to him. Sure, Hidan had said some mean things too, but he hadn't said them to put himself above Sasuke; he was merely trying to defend himself.

"I don't see why you're angry with me, Hinata."

She whirled on him, hoping to goodness that she wouldn't stutter as she spoke, "listen, Sasuke," they had stopped right outside of her home, "number one. Hidan wasn't deliberately trying to hurt you; anyone could've seen that. He even wanted to know why you'd pointed anything out in the first place. How else was he supposed to d-defend himself if he didn't point out how you were with that kid? And secondly, you're so full of yourself! You wouldn't even let me dab at your face!"

She stormed through the gate to her complex as Sasuke stared wide-eyed at her. He hurried after her, "Hinata, wait, wait."

"NO! I'm tired of this! You and your pride, and your thinking that you're better than everyone else! Y-you probably said something t-that he didn't want anybody else to know! I t-think he had e-e-every right to – to hurt you!"

With that she opened the front door and slammed it, stalking into the living room. Her father, Neji, Hanabi and Kiba stared at her, all blinking at different intervals. After one minute she stormed back outside. Sasuke was still standing on the porch steps, staring unblinking at the now open door.

Hinata grabbed his face and kissed his forehead, "good night."

Without waiting for his response she went back inside and stood next to the window. Sasuke hung his head, turned around and walked away, toward his home. Hinata glanced at her father; he looked happy that she and Sasuke had gotten into some kind of fight. She trudged up the stairs after saying hi to Kiba and Hanabi. Neji scrambled after her, and before she could close her door he was in her room.

"Hinata. What happened?"

So she told him all about it. Told him all about how Sasuke had suddenly picked an argument with Hidan, Neji saying that Sasuke probably did that because he felt Hidan was threatening his relationship with her. She told him about the kids, and at this Neji was silent. Finally she collapsed against Neji's chest – they were sitting on her bed by the time she had finished.

'I will not cry,' she growled to herself. A few tears did slip over her eyelids, but otherwise, she didn't start sobbing.

"Hinata, I really think that Sasuke feels threatened by Hidan. I mean, I don't know much about him either but... if you think that Itachi thinks that Hidan would be better for you, then maybe it's destiny."

Hinata started giggling, because Neji only ever said anything about destiny and its "superior-power-over-life-and-death" to make her laugh. It always worked. Neji smiled.

"But w-w-what should I d-do? And you," she poked him in the chest, "w-what did you mean y-yesterday, when you a-asked me if I was i-interested in H-Hidan?"

"Well, I don't know what you should do. But Hinata, it's kind of obvious that you're interested in Hidan. The way you were looking at him when he was talking to you yesterday -!"

She gasped, "y-y-y-you were watching and you d-d-didn't do anything?!"

Neji blinked at her, "well, I guess I didn't. But there is a reason behind that. While Itachi and Kisame were distracting Sasuke and Naruto, Hidan walked up to you. I figured they had planned it out. I got mad at Sasuke because he just suddenly started flirting with you one day, and I know that you were making it known that you were interested in him but... he just started flirting with you. Hidan was just really talking with you, maybe subtly flirting. Sasuke just went all out and flirted with you like mad until you gave into his advances. No, Hidan isn't that kind of guy; I can tell. He's the type that waits until he's sure the girl he's interested in is interested in him back, then he makes his move."

Hinata stared at Neji. She was about to retort something when he added, "besides, those other guy's at the pool table were glaring at people, and uh, Kakuzu – he's the one with green eyes right?" Hinata nodded and Neji continued, "right. The look in his eyes was a warning for me – because he was staring at me – not to get involved, so I didn't. And ten minutes later Hidan backed off, followed by Itachi and Kisame. So you can see why I didn't do anything."

Hinata nodded. She understood that. Though Neji loved her and would protect her with his life, he would never get involved in something that was obviously harmless.

"So, H-Hidan was just... h-harmlessly flirting w-with me?"

"Yes. Harmlessly flirting with you. He wasn't too close or too far. He was just kind of... well, there. Making his presence known."

"Hm..." Hinata stared at her hands, thoughtful. She thought that maybe she should talk to father about his expectations. She looked up at Neji, "I want to talk to father."

Neji smiled and stood, "of course. I'll go get him."

Hinata hugged her knees to her chest as Neji left, and a moment later Hiashi entered her room. He closed the door softly behind him and sat down on her bed, his weight making it sink in.

"Hinata. What did you want to talk to me about?"

"I w-want you to t-tell me your expectations a-again."

Hiashi laughed lightly, and placed a hand against her neck lovingly, "Hinata. I've changed my mind about a lot of those expectations; they're too much. Believe it or not, Neji lectured me about them last night after you two got home. I didn't ask him why though. Anyway, the only things I really expect of your future husband now are that he respects you, loves you, can support you in one way or another and is protective. I want you to be happy, even if he doesn't have a family name. You do realize that if he doesn't have a family name that if you get married to him, he will take on the Hyuuga last name right?"

She nodded her head, lost in thought. Then she hugged her father around the chest and he hugged her back, "thank you father."

"You're welcome."

As he began to walk out her bedroom door she informed him, "I might go outside the complex for a while tonight. Just s-s-so you don't w-w-wonder where I am."

Hiashi looked at the clock and she did too; it was already seven. He nodded and then walked back down the stairs. Hinata flopped back on her bed, and held her cell phone to her chest.

Respect. Sasuke was respectful when he wanted to be or if he got what he wanted. Hidan was respectful of what the people around him wanted and what they were like.

Love. Sasuke liked her, she knew that much, but she didn't know if he really loved her, or could love her. It was obvious to her that Hidan was capable of loving, and the way he was with those little kids was proof of it.

Support. Sasuke could definitely support her. If what Sasuke had said about Hidan having to work his butt off for money was true, then Hinata was sure she could get a job herself and support the family. The thought of Hidan being a stay-at-home father crossed her mind, and she started giggling madly.

Protective. Both were protective; Sasuke of his prize and Hidan of the kids. She stared at the ceiling, looking for cracks.

'In m-my book... loving k-kids is a must. I want a-a-at least one, and if Sasuke c-couldn't even handle that eleven year old being an eleven year old...'

She couldn't believe she was actually thinking about this, and she turned over on her stomach. She looked through the contacts on her phone, and found Sasuke's. Instead of calling his cell, she called his home phone. His mother picked up, "hello?"

"Hello, Mrs. Uchiha. It's H-Hinata. I... I want to speak with Itachi."

There was a pause and the sound of the front door opening, "just a moment dear. Itachi just walked in the door."

Hinata heard Mrs. Uchiha call Itachi, and then there was the sound of the phone switching holders, "yes?" Itachi's low voice asked.

"Uh, Itachi. It's H-Hinata. I w-was wondering if y-you would be w-willing to meet me a-at the b-bus stop."

"Of course. Why though, might I ask?"

"I w-would like to talk to you. About Hidan, and Sasuke."

There was a pause and then Itachi said, "I'll be there in five minutes. See you soon."

"See you," Hinata replied as she trotted down the stairs. Hiashi looked up at her and said nothing as she walked out the front door. Neji watched her leave from the window, as was his duty.

She hurried to the bus stop and when she rounded the corner she saw that Itachi was sitting on the bench waiting.

"Hinata," he said without even turning his head to look at her. She settled next to him and then he turned his head, his red eyes bright in the darkness.

"What do you want to know?"

"What d-do you t-think about the two? I a-already know a-about yesterday. D-did you c-call Hidan earlier and t-tell him to b-be at the park?"

Itachi's expression changed to that of a child with their hand in the cookie jar as their parent caught them snatching one.

"Well... yes. I did call him. In all honesty, Hinata, Sasuke doesn't deserve someone like you. Considering Sasuke's background, he's grown up spoiled by my mother and father. I didn't let it get to me as much as Sasuke did. That's why he's proud. That's why he has a temper. When he didn't get what he wanted he got angry. Now, Hidan," Itachi turned toward her, "Hidan could really use a girlfriend, if you ask me," he looked around then leaned closer, "you can't tell him I told you this. Hidan used to live with his family. But... after a while his parents started neglecting him. They stopped hugging him, stopped talking to him, and treated him like he didn't even exist; like he was a burden to them. So he ran away from home. They call him everyday, begging him to come back but... he won't. So now they just settle for knowing that he's alright and alive. But he knows. He knows that they're wasting their lives partying."

Hinata's eyes grew very wide. She had never known that, 'no wonder he had such a pained expression when Sasuke s-said that today!'

Itachi sighed and shook his head, "I know that Hidan didn't really have a right to say what he did, and he knew that. He apologized to me about it because I'm from the same family and all. But Sasuke... Sasuke had absolutely no right to make such a personal jab at Hidan. Hidan's hurting," Itachi stared up at the sky, "though knowing me, I'm probably going to call him at one and tell him that I told you some things about him because you asked. Don't worry though; he'll get mad at me, not you."

Hinata continued to stare at him with wide eyes. What she was picking up from this was the fact that Hidan just needed someone to love him.

"Do his parents... do they still l-love him?"

"Yeah, they do. He just doesn't want to go back and be influenced by them, and then end up ruining his own life."

"Tell me where he works," she demanded suddenly. Itachi stared at her, "please. Tell me where he works."

"He works at the café down on the far corner of the park. You know the street where all those cheap clothing stores are? Yeah, it's down there. It's the only café café. The other one's are just bakery's. I believe it's called The Joint. Turns into a club at night."

Hinata's breath caught in her throat, "does he w-work there all day?" she squeaked out. Itachi was silent before he muttered, "yes."

Hinata's lips moved soundlessly and Itachi said, "his employer likes to keep him around at night because he attracts women. He just kind of walks around and talks to people. He doesn't do what a host does though, so don't go thinking down that path. The employer likes him too much to make him do something like that."

"Is the employer a – a woman?"

Itachi chuckled, "yep. She flirts with him a lot for fun. I think the first time she flirted with him she was surprised because he flirted right back. She just does it to make him laugh now. She's like a mother to him. Oh, and by the way, she isn't young. That's why it's funny."

Hinata tilted her head in confusion, "you know old man bartender?" she nodded, "well, Hidan's employer is his wife. Can you imagine a like, sixty year old flirting with an eighteen year old?"

Hinata burst into uncontrolled laughter, and surprised herself. Itachi smiled and nodded his head, "see what I mean? It's funny."

"T-that is f-funny. So, old m-man b-bartender and his w-wife are like p-parents to Hidan?"

"Yeah. I mean, when they found out he was looking for a job they offered both places to him instantly, even though there was a waiting list."

"S-so he j-just got the j-job?"

"Yeah, and he does a good job at what he does too. They don't regret hiring him, though old man bartender barely sees him around anymore because of it."

Hinata thought on this. Hidan worked day and night to support himself while Sasuke was spoiled by his parents. So which was better? The rich, spoiled boy or the boy that struggled to make a living and the right choices? Hinata would probably sleep on that tonight. Itachi stood then and stretched, scratching the back of his head. Hinata jumped up and wrapped her hand as much as she could around his forearm. He blinked down at her, surprised.

"Itachi-san. P-please d-don't call Hidan u-until tomorrow."

Itachi gave her a small smile, "you know. He really doesn't like it when you call him Hidan-san."

It was her turn to blink in surprise, "why?"

"Because he feels distant from you," Itachi replied slyly, before gently prying her hand off his arm and walking back toward his home, giving her a small wave. She called out a good bye and turned on her heel, darting off in the direction she had come, back to her own house.

--

Sunday was a slow day. Hinata asked her father if he would like to go down to this place called "The Joint". To her pleasant surprise, he had been there before and had always wished to go back. So Hinata and her father were scheduled to go down there for a late lunch. Hinata was nibbling on her lip the whole way there, wondering what Hidan's reaction would be.

'W-what if h-he g-gets mad? What if h-h-he isn't even w-w-working there t-today?' her thoughts overwhelmed her and when they finally arrived at the café she was in an apprehensive mood.

The girl that greeted them at the entrance swiftly took them to a booth for two. It was a very nice café Hinata decided as she took in the furniture. There was a circular lounge, with windows going all around it. The booth that Hinata and her father were seated in had embroidered cushions. They were a maroon red, the embroidery done in gold thread. Hinata couldn't help blushing and she turned to the girl that had seated them, "ano... w-why is t-this so... so..."

"So prettied up?" the girl finished for her. Hinata nodded, and the girl smiled, "because we're already changing from your typical café feel to the club scene. You won't be charged extra for it, so don't worry."

At this Hiashi's eyebrows flew up, and Hinata looked at her father. She knew what must've been going through his head, "honestly? But it's so nice, surely you would charge extra for it."

Instead of saying anything like he normally would, Hiashi stayed silent. Hinata looked through the menu, and after decided what she would like to eat – the lasagna sounded delicious – she asked her father, "may I g-get a uh, c-cocktail, father?"

"A virgin one, if you will, Hinata."

Hinata's eyes grew wide and a blush skittered across her cheeks. Realizing what he'd just said, Hiashi laughed, "oh, my dear daughter. What I mean by a virgin cocktail is one that has no alcohol in it."

Hinata's mouth made an "o" and she returned to looking over the drink menu. She would've liked to get the Raspberry Flip, but seeing as it had something called vodka in it, she decided not to. Her eyes skimmed the list once more, and she saw something that she thought she might like; Berry Bush. The only ingredients in it were blueberries, raspberries, strawberries and cranberries. She showed it to her father.

"I-is this a v-v-v-v-virgin drink, father?"

He squinted his eyes at it, "yes. Though you should ask our waiter or waitress about it when they get here."

"Have you decided what you want to eat, father?"

For a moment he stared at her, "well... yes."

"Why are y-you l-looking at m-me like that -f-father?"

He snorted, "Hinata. You don't have to call me father every single time you speak to me. I was staring at you like that because you actually said a sentence without stuttering."

Hinata blushed and bowed her head. An attractive young girl walked up, with red lips and long wavy red hair. Her outfit was indeed a waitress outfit, but more elegant and sophisticated looking. Hinata stared at her in a bit of envy, and the girl stood next to her.

"Hi there. My name's Akane, and I'll be your waitress today. Feel free to ask me any questions, and if you wish to make a reservation at the club for this evening or another time, please let me know," she glanced down at Hinata, red eyes flashing, "what'll you have, darling?"

"Uh, I want to k-know about the Berry Bush."

"It's a virgin drink, sweets. You want it?"

"Yes please."

"And to eat?" Akane questioned, scribbling with her pen on her pad.

"Lasagna."

"Alright," she approached Hiashi, "and you sir?"

"I'll have a glass of water and the club sandwich."

"Alright then. I'll return shortly with your drinks," and with that Akane made her way over to the bar. Hinata's eyes followed her and she looked at everyone at the bar. Akane was blocking her view of one person, but she saw a pair of hands start shaking something up. When Akane moved to get the glass of water that was set down, Hinata blushed deeply.

'Hidan-kun...'

After their meal, Hinata was surprised to find that her father didn't want to leave quite yet. He wanted to have a cup of coffee, and after a moment he started a conversation with Akane. Akane glanced at Hinata after a moment then cautiously sat down next to Hiashi. He was talking about the club itself, and Akane was very willing to tell him about it. Hinata sighed lightly and got up. Hiashi snapped his head to her instantly.

"I'm g-going to go to the b-bar. To w-watch them."

Hiashi nodded and then dropped back into conversation with Akane.

Hinata approached the bar with an air of nervousness. She was still fretting over what Hidan's reaction would be to seeing that she was there. The guys at the bar were joking around when she arrived, and she frowned when she saw that Hidan wasn't among them. She leaned against the counter and one of the guys noticed. He leaned against the counter on one arm, his brown eyes warm and comforting. Hinata relaxed.

"Hey, hun. Can I get you anything?"

"Um... I w-was wondering where H-Hidan is."

His eyes widened briefly and then he smiled, "sure, he's in the kitchen. I'll go get him for you."

"Thank you," Hinata whispered as he walked off. She watched as he leaned into the kitchen and yelled Hidan's name. Shortly after that Hidan's head appeared.

His reaction was the one she feared it would be.

"HOLY SHIT!" he half-yelled, and then he disappeared back into the kitchen. Hinata bit her lip, and the boy with brown eyes slowly approached her again.

"Uh, he's never that kind of reaction to anyone before. By the way, my name's Stephen."

Hinata stared down at her hands, wondering what she was going to do now. The outburst hadn't really gotten any body's attention, and her father was still chattering away with Akane.

"Well, I-I'm not really s-s-supposed to know that he w-works here."

Stephen was silent, and he tilted his head at her, "you're not?"

"N-no."

"Then how did you find out?"

Hinata bit her lip, "a f-friend of his t-told me," she said so quietly she was sure he wouldn't hear. But he had and he just nodded his head. He rested his hand on hers briefly, "tell you what. I'll go talk to him. You're being served by Akane right?" Hinata nodded, "all right. I'll tell him to stop by your table. I don't think your dad will mind."

With that Stephen headed back into the kitchen and Hinata headed back to her booth.

'I'll sit next to f-father, then. W-When Akane l-leaves.'

--

'Shit, shit, shit, shit, shit! She's not supposed to know I'm here, damn it!' Hidan was racking his brain for any indication that had shown he worked here. Racked his brain for absolutely anything that had even given her the slightest idea that he worked here.

If this was some prank being played on him, he wasn't going to take too kindly to it.

"Hidan?" he heard Stephen call. He didn't answer, just tried to hide more fully in the janitor's closet. After five minutes the closet door opened and Hidan groaned.

"Oh! There you are!" Stephen crouched in the opening, staring at Hidan.

"What do you want?" Hidan asked, biting his tongue. Stephen raised his eyebrow at Hidan, who had "busted" written all over his face, "why'd you run off like that?"

"I, well..."

"She's not supposed to know, yeah?"

Hidan averted his eyes, his expression giving away the answer. Stephen chuckled, "well, go sit out for a while with her and her dad."

"Her DAD?!" Hidan exclaimed in shock. Stephen blinked at him, "yeah, her dad. He's at the table with -" Akane walked by behind him, "was with Akane."

"Do I have to?"

"Yes," said a new voice, an older voice. Hidan got up and smooth out his pants as Martha came around the corner in all her glory, "you go out there young man. Face it. Suck it up," he knew what she was talking about and he leaned against the door frame, pouting. She poked him in the leg with her cane and frowned, "come now, Dan, just go. I think the girl likes you."

"She has a boyfriend," Hidan growled bitterly. Martha arched an eyebrow at him then informed him slyly, "then convince her otherwise," before sauntering away – as much as an old lady could saunter. Hidan was stuck with gaping at her, his cheeks a light shade of red. Stephen chuckled before all but ripping the half-apron Hidan had on for holding items and then shoved him toward the entrance to the kitchen.

"Don't be shy, Hidan. Take advantage of it. She's a Hyuuga, right? Did you know that the Hyuuga and Uchiha aren't on good terms?"

Hidan shook his head at this, and finally he walked out of the kitchen sighing. Akane followed him and wrapped an arm around his waist, "you might want to take that ring out. I don't think Hiashi will mind the eyebrow and ears, but the lip? Most likely."

Hidan sighed again and removed the lip ring. Akane held out her hand and he gave it to her. She pointed at one of the tables next to the window and he saw Hinata's hair; her head was turned away because she was talking to her father. Hidan took a deep breath, 'here goes nothing,' and walked out of the bar. As he walked past tables he got comments like "hey, sexy" and "oh gawds I never knew that they had someone so hot working here!". He was used to hearing such comments and he ignored them, walking more quickly toward Hinata and her father. He stopped next to the table and planted his fists on his hips.

'Here goes nothing.'

"Hey."

Hinata's head whipped around and Hidan refused to let his expression change as her father leaned back in order to avoid being hit by her hair. He was a nervous wreck inside, but he loosened up when he saw Hinata's face brighten.

"Hidan! Ano... I-I'm sorry I s-surprised you back there."

'Surprised me no shit,' he was tempted to say but that wouldn't really rest well with her father so instead he replied, "yeah you did surprise me. Sorry for the outburst."

The father's expression went from something akin to apprehension to a pleased expression. Hidan crossed his fingers in his head. Hinata's father gestured to the empty seat across from them.

"Do take a seat. I'm guessing that this is who you meant when you said someone would be coming over here, Hinata?"

"H-hai."

Hidan took the seat that Hinata's father had gestured to. He felt very uncomfortable and released a breath. Shortly after this he noticed that Hinata's father was staring at his lip.

"Uh, is something – wrong?"

"No, it's just that Hinata mentioned you had a lip piercing."

Hinata's face flushed and she looked down. Hidan smirked lightly, 'so she freaking likes it? Nice.'

"Well, yeah I do. But, uh, a friend of mine figured that maybe you would disapprove, so I took it out."

Pale lavender eyes widened and Hinata looked up, "well, no, not really. Lip piercings have never been my favorite, but they're just... piercings. By the way, we haven't been properly introduced," he held out a strong looking hand, "Hiashi Hyuuga."

"Hidan."

They shook hands, and Hiashi shot Hinata a look. She shrugged, and glanced away, before settling for staring at Hidan. Hidan decided that he felt very, very small under Hiashi's gaze. After asking a brief question about Hidan's parents – to which Hidan replied stiffly – Hiashi asked about hobbies and favorite things.

"What's your favorite color?" Hiashi asked. Hidan was startled by this pointless question and Hinata startled giggling. She had been silent the entire chat, settling only for listening and learning more, it seemed.

"Purple," Hidan said unconsciously. There was an odd silence, and it suddenly dawned on Hidan what he'd said. His cheeks slowly started turning red and he glanced at Hinata. Her cheeks were also red. Hiashi had the most smug little smile on his face, like he had expected that answer all along.

--

"Well, it was nice chatting with you," Hinata heard Hiashi say. She turned her head to look back at Hidan, her hand on the handle to the car door. Hidan caught her gaze and winked – he had walked her and her father to the door. She blushed lightly and pulled open the car door, nearly jumping inside. Hidan waved and she waved back, then he disappeared back inside.

Hiashi entered the car a moment later and it purred to life. The first five minutes of the drive home were spent in silence, until Hiashi broke it, "he's a nice kid. I like him."

At this Hinata blushed, "h-hai... he i-is nice. And he's um... he's g-good with k-kids."

Hiashi raised an eyebrow at this statement, but otherwise said nothing. They drove into the driveway and Hiashi instructed Hinata to get out of the car and go inside while he drove into the garage.

Supper was spent in complete silence, since Hanabi was at Kiba's – she wouldn't be home till later – and Neji wasn't feeling well. After watching T.V for an hour with her father, she trudged up the stairs to her room, to prepare for bed. Tomorrow was a school day; tomorrow she might see Hidan.

On Monday, she didn't see him, and was a little disappointed. She did, however, find that Itachi and Sasuke got into a bitter argument about the park incident on Saturday – Sasuke found out that Itachi had deliberately called Hidan. Hinata put an end to their argument by telling them that "it happened two days ago. Let it go" which was something uncharacteristic for her to say. Which is exactly why she said it.

At lunch Itachi asked to speak with her for a moment.

"I didn't tell him yet."

"I didn't tell him either," Hinata managed to say without stuttering. Itachi half-frowned, "why not?"

"I f-forgot because... because he and m-my father were d-deep in conversation so..."

Itachi's eyes bulged, "your – your father?"

"Yes. I... I brought him with me. I w-was a l-little f-frightened about g-going alone."

"Ah. Well, I'll leave you alone then. Oh," he remembered something and turned back to face her, "I'm sure Ino will invite you, but she's having a party on Wednesday. At The Joint. Her father made a reservation," Itachi bit his lip then and hung his head, "Martha – old bartender's wife – might give Hidan the day off but otherwise..."

"O-otherwise everyone is g-g-going to know," Hinata finished for him, sharing his distressed expression.

On Tuesday, Hinata finally saw Hidan. He waved at her and suddenly she was dashing over. He made a muffled "oof" sound when she collided with his chest, securing her arms around him in a tight hug. He blinked down at her head and she pulled away, blushing madly, and dashed off down the corridor, toward Sasuke who was just turning around. He released a small yelp of surprise when Hinata jumped on him yelling, "Sasuke!!"

Hidan burst out laughing – much to Hinata's delight – moments later, with lots of other people. She stared down at Sasuke, who's face was actually capable of turning red.

By the end of the day, Hinata noticed that something was up with the Akatsuki. She spotted them hanging around outside the school, with Itachi in the middle of them, obviously not wanting to explain something by the look on his face. Hinata looked at the steps and saw the source of the problem.

'H-he must have t-told Hidan...'

She walked slowly down the steps and glanced at the Akatsuki. They were shaking their heads, Deidara even making it look like he was going to dash forward and grab her. She closed her eyes briefly and stopped walking down the steps.

'I'll m-make this r-right. B-because... because...'

"Hidan..."

He slowly turned his head to face her and she took a small step closer. Sasuke wasn't out here waiting like he normally would, probably due to the appearance of the Akatsuki. She could see that he was upset in the way his eyes were narrowed and his mouth was set. She took a breath.

"I-I'm sorry. I sh-should have t-told you first. A-and I shouldn't h-have brought my f-father with m-me, b-but I w-was a little f-frightened at g-going down t-there on my own," his expression softened and the knot that her stomach had tied itself into loosened. She sat down next to him.

"P-please don't b-be angry with him..."

Hidan looked away, staring off into the distance. She gripped the sleeve of his non-uniform shirt, modest because he was at school.

'I d-don't like the s-sophisticated l-look on h-him,' she pouted to herself, for once not afraid that her thoughts were straying from Sasuke. Hidan was still silent and she released his shirt sleeve in favor of gripping his left shoulder, her fingers brushing lightly over his collarbone. His head turned instantly to face her, a startled expression overtaking his features. She pulled and his torso was forced to turn toward her; he showed no sign of resisting.

Her arms wrapped around him like they had when she had pushed him off of Sasuke. This time Hidan hugged her back, pressing his cheek against the top of her head. She winced a little at the applied pressure, since her bruise from the mysterious punch hadn't yet gone away. She remembered observing it in the mirror. Maybe she had a cracked rib.

The minutes in silence ticked by with them just hugging, and from the way Hidan's breathing was so steady she thought that maybe he had fallen asleep. She pulled back a little, and he moved. As she leaned to her right, her eyes widened as a shock shot through her body. Hidan steadied her as she fell forward a little.

"Hinata! Hey, what the hell's wrong?"

"Ah... m-my rib h-hurts, that's all," she said through a smile. He gave her an odd look.

"... you got hit on Saturday, didn't you?"

'Eh?' Hinata looked up at him. He was giving her a scrunched up look, like he thought that maybe he'd hit her.

"There's no way in hell I could've hit you. Sasuke hit you, didn't he?"

"H-he d-didn't mean t-to!" she replied in Sasuke's defense. Hidan tilted his head to one side, fury flickering through his eyes.

"Hinata!" she heard Sasuke call her name, and she could see him looking around. She smiled at Hidan again.

"D-don't worry a-about me, Hidan-kun. It's j-just a bruise; it will g-go away," and with that she stood – taking note of his light blush at the nickname - and as she walked away she ruffled Hidan's hair. He stared after her in surprise. Hinata just couldn't wait for Wednesday to come around.

'Ino's party... I n-need to ask f-father if I can wear t-the black outfit I b-bought.'

In the end she convinced her father to let her wear the black outfit. It wasn't that bad. The shirt was a tube top with hanging fishnet-like sleeves, and the skirt was a simple, smooth black skirt with a white line down one side. The shirt also covered Hinata's midriff yet left it exposed, since the bottom was kind of stringy. She wore a pair of simple black high heels. She was about ready to leave when she remembered something. She walked back into the bathroom and pulled her hair back hurriedly, letting wisps of it fall out of her hand. She grabbed an elastic to secure the pony-tail, then tied a black ribbon around it. Satisfied, she walked down the stairs to impatiently await Ino's arrival.

Ino was extremely please with Hinata's outfit. So pleased, in fact, that she wanted a photo right then and there before Hinata managed to somehow ruin her make up. Hinata huffed at her, and handed the blonde her present.

"Oh, it's beautiful! Thanks Hinata!" Ino was over joyed when she opened the box and pulled out the pink choker with small cherry blossoms all over it, and one in the middle. There were two stinks dangling from the big cherry blossom.

"Help me put it on," she instructed Hinata. Hinata did so, pleased that Ino liked her gift.

'A-and now w-we're on o-our way,' Hinata crossed her fingers, 'p-please, please tell me t-that Hidan got the day o-off.'

When the girls arrived The Joint was packed with people – most of them there to enjoy themselves. The rest of the people had all been invited to Ino's party. Sasuke was alarmed by Hinata's outfit, and it took him a moment to actually acknowledge that it was her standing there in the shirt and skirt.

"I can't believe your dad let you wear that."

Hinata looked down, confidence from before already wavering, "well, I-I kind of h-had to convince him..."

Sasuke gave her a disbelieving look, and then shook his head. Hinata sighed and looked away to the entrance. She was glad she did so, because the Akatsuki was just arriving. She sighed in relief when she saw that Hidan was with them. Ino waved them over. Hidan glanced at Hinata and then stared. It seemed to Hinata that he couldn't believe his eyes. Sasuke got distracted by Naruto, and then the blonde dragged him off somewhere. Hinata took the chance to give Hidan a hug.

"Well, hey, gorgeous," Hidan greeted, smiling down at her. She blushed furiously.

"H-hi..."

Hidan looked around then leaned down to whisper in her ear, "I'm serious, Hinata. You look like a fucking Goddess. Seriously"

He released her and walked away while her face continued to redden as she sat back down. Sasuke and Naruto returned a moment later and Hinata gave them a smile, "w-welcome back."

Hinata knew that Sasuke was upset she didn't want to dance, but she really didn't want to. He left her alone after asking her twice, and eventually – and because he didn't like how close Hidan was sitting to her – Sasuke returned from the dance floor. He glared at Hidan and the silver-haired boy moved without complaint. He brushed past Sasuke and went to talk with Kakuzu. Sasuke and Hinata both stared after him in surprise.

'Well I-I'm impressed b-but... that's s-so unlike him,' Hinata shook her head. One minute Hidan was breathing on her shoulder and the next he was up and gone, because Sasuke wanted to sit next to her. Five minutes passed in an uncomfortable silence, and suddenly there was a commotion down at the bar. Hinata and Sasuke exchanged a look, and then went to check it out.

Ino was irritated that no one seemed to be able to do any fancy tricks when making cocktails. Stephen waved at Hinata and she pushed her way to the front with Sasuke's help.

"Hey Hinata."

"Hi Stephen."

Sasuke looked between the two and Stephen explained, "met on Sunday. She and her dad came down here for lunch."

Sasuke's mouth made an "o", and he leaned forward to look at Ino. Hidan was standing to the blonde's right, staring at all the different ingredients for drinks. He frowned shortly after that.

'M-maybe he wishes h-he was t-there right n-now.'

She looked over at Hidan and caught his gaze. His lips twitched up in a smile, and Stephen didn't fail to notice this. He walked over to Hidan and gestured. When Hidan leaned forward Stephen whispered something in his ear. Hidan slowly started to smile. He then jumped up onto the bar and over. Ino blinked at him, then scowled, "Hidan. What are you doing?"

Hidan tossed his head to look over his shoulder at her, "making a cocktail, birthday bitch."

Ino gaped at him, and Hinata tilted her head in interest.

Hidan was quite a show off, she decided. But she was amazed by all the different ways he could toss whatever utensil he was using to make the cocktail around. He even spun it on his middle finger, making several girls swoon. It merely made Hinata blush. Hidan was in front of her then, with a glass he was filling with a blue liquid.

'W-wait! Don't tell me -!' Hinata couldn't quite believe it. Hidan poked the drink toward her and Stephen tossed four berries in it as Hidan mouthed to her, "Berry Bush".

Hinata's face turned ten shades of red, and everyone was staring at her expectantly. She swallowed lightly and took a sip of the drink. She tasted no alcohol of course; it was a virgin drink.

"Can I?" Sasuke asked. Hinata nodded and handed the glass to him. He took a sip and then started walking away with. Hidan chuckled.

"Hey!" Hinata cried, going after him.

"No way! It's mine now!" Sasuke exclaimed as she tried to get it from him. She pouted and turned around, crossing her arms. Sasuke gave it back to her a moment later, not being able to stand just staring at her back.

The party was drawing to a close, and Hinata was eying the red drink Sasuke was drinking. He noticed this and offered it to her, "you want to try it?"

"O-okay..." she was about to take a sip when a pale hand grabbed the glass.

"You know better, dumb-ass," the nickname was unmistakable. Hinata looked over her shoulder to see that Hidan was glaring at Sasuke. Sasuke glared back, then sighed and took a hold of the drink.

"Don't tell me you didn't freaking know it has alcohol in it."

Sasuke looked up in surprise, then down at the glass, then up at Hidan again, "it does?"

"Yeah. You drink to much to notice it, though."

Sasuke's face turned beet red, "why aren't you working today?" he retorted, challenging Hidan with his eyes. Hinata stared up at Hidan with a pleading expression, and Hidan – thankfully – glanced down at her.

"I have the day off. For Ino's party. But hey, listen up punk," he reached over Hinata's shoulder and grabbed Sasuke's shirt collar, yanking him up. Hinata' scooted back until she was against Hidan's body, and she began blushing.

"Say anything about it, and I"ll break your pretty little face in."

"I – I won't say anything about it!" Sasuke promised. Hidan released Sasuke and stalked off.

"I'm sorry, Hinata," Sasuke apologized, gesturing to his drink, "I forgot it had alcohol in it."

"I-it's all right."

Itachi, who had been silent the entire time that Hinata had forgotten he was there, abruptly stood, muttering something about wanting to go outside. Two minutes after he left, Hidan left as well. This did not rest well with Hinata. Even with so many friends gathered around her, Hinata couldn't help thinking about Hidan and Itachi, her heart clenching in her chest; what if something bad had happened?

She stood and Sasuke grabbed her wrist, "where are you going?"

"T-to the bathroom," she replied, tugging at her wrist. Sasuke gave her a confused look but released her. She bolted off toward the bathroom. She went inside, counted to twenty and then bolted outside. If she was lucky, nobody would have seen her. She looked around, 'if I was angry, where would I g-go?'

She turned her head to the right to see that it curved around to another street. She decided she would check there first, and she was also well aware of the danger she was putting herself in. She heard voices, and hurried to the corner. She poked her head around it, and her eyes widened.

Hidan had Itachi backed up against the wall, and Itachi had a slightly fearful glint in his eyes. Hidan on the other hand looked absolutely furious.

"Why the fuck did you tell her?"

'So, he r-really is s-still u-upset about that,' she frowned.

Itachi was trying to compose himself, "I thought she should know. I - I had no idea she would come down here, honestly I -!"

Hidan slammed his fist against the brick wall next to Itachi's head. Hinata quickly clamped a hand over her mouth and flattened herself against the brick. The scream in her lungs evaporated. A bit of sweat trickled down her forehead.

'I-it was a b-bad idea, I-I never s-should have c-convinced f-father to c-come down with m-me.'

"She came with her father, damn it. Her father!"

Hinata peeked around the corner again and was shocked to see Itachi's eyes wide with fear. He just couldn't hide it anymore she decided.

"I really didn't know! Not until she told me on Monday!"

"I trusted you, damn it! That's why I fucking told you. That's why I told you and nobody else!"

So this was about betrayed trust. Hidan felt betrayed and it was all Hinata's fault. She had to stop them before one of them got hurt; she just had to stop them. So she rounded the corner and ran. She came to a stop in front of Itachi and turned swiftly to face Hidan. The surprise in his face was so evident and she stumbled a little from turning so quickly. His hands clasped her biceps and Itachi's hands lightly touched her waist to steady her. She planted her hands on Hidan's chest and cried, "Itachi told me b-because I asked!"

Both men were silent and she continued, "I-I wanted to know w-why Sasuke was s-so c-cruel that day a-and one thing led to another," she wrapped her arms around Hidan's chest, "it's all m-my f-fault for not m-minding my own b-business."

There was silence again until Hidan snarled, "you told her about my parents too?!" she knew he was looking down at her now, "that's why you hugged me yesterdays! Because you knew, damn it, you knew," he struggled to break out of her hold and Itachi moved away from the wall, preparing to intervene if need be. Hinata felt like she had just turned a one eighty, which meant that Hidan's back was to the wall as he struggled, "let go, damn it Hinata, let go!"

She was infuriated by this and she released him to grab his face, "NO!"

Her sudden change in demeanor shocked Hidan and Itachi, and Hidan slid down the wall, ultimately sitting on the ground. His eyes were staring unblinking past Hinata's feet, and she knelt in front of him. Itachi took a step back, his expression one of worry. Hinata touched Hidan's cheek, concern etched into her features, "H-Hidan?"

He brought a hand up to cover his eyes and his shoulders started shaking. Hinata sat up on her knees, hands hesitating next to his shoulders.

Until she realized that sobs were racking his entire body.

She wrapped her arms around him tightly, "oh, Hidan!"

He buried his face in her neck and sobbed, his body shaking a bit more violently. He wrapped his arms around her as much as he could, pulling her close and making her blush. She stroked his head and tried to soothe him. She heard Itachi turn and she peeked over the top of Hidan's head.

"Hinata?" she heard Sasuke's unmistakable voice. When he came around the corner he almost broke into a full run. Itachi snagged his arm, "no, Sasuke. Leave them alone. He..."

Sasuke looked at his brother than back at Hidan and Hinata. She begged him with her eyes, 'please leave. Please.'

Sasuke lowered his head, "alright," and then turned on his heel, heading back to The Joint. Itachi stared at Hidan and Hinata for a moment longer before he walked away as well.

It felt like she had been in this position for hours. Hidan's head was resting against her sternum now. There were still tears flowing down his cheeks, but he had quieted down. They stayed there like that, just holding on to each other until the rest of the Akatsuki came around the corner, Itachi in the lead. Konan dashed forward and dropped down next to them, "are you alright?!"

In response Hidan turned his face into Hinata's chest, and she struggled to keep herself from blushing. Konan patted him on the head and smiled prettily, "you're so cute when you're upset, Hidan."

Hinata felt him smile at the comment, and her body shivered, which made him smile all the more. Pein sighed and the others started laughing lightly, "well, let's go then. We don't really have the time to be wasting it around here," he nodded at Hinata, "most of them will see you tomorrow."

"I'll come in a minute," Hidan said, his voice quiet. Konan nodded then headed off with the others. Kakuzu hesitated, but when with the Akatsuki when Kisame came back to get him.

Hinata pulled away and stood. Hidan wiped at his eyes and face before standing. They stared at each other.

"I h-have no doubt S-Sasuke is w-waiting around the corner."

"I should go."

Yet they continued to stare at each other, neither wishing to leave.

"You wanna' come hang out with us on Friday?"

"How long?" she asked without even really thinking about it.

"Till eleven."

"T-that's late. I'd have to a-ask my dad."

"Your dad likes me, seriously. Don't deny. He does."

Hinata stared down at her feet. Hidan lifted her chin and kissed the side of her mouth. This earned him a small gasp and he chuckled lightly before walking away. She merely stood there until Ino's urgent cry reached her ears.

--

Thursday was uneventful, except for Hidan and Sasuke almost getting in a fight. Itachi stopped them and he and Hidan walked off side-by-side, which meant that things were back to normal. Hinata was happy about this.

Friday seemed to enjoy running at Hinata with the force of a semi-truck. Her father had given her permission to go hang out with the Akatsuki only because Hidan was going to be there.

'Father must really like him t-then,' Hinata realized. She was picked up by Kakuzu and Hidan. To her surprise Hidan was sitting in the backseat when she opened the door.

"Hey," he greeted in a seductive sounding voice. Hinata blushed hopelessly. Hidan gestured for her to come closer.

"Afraid you're gonna' have to sit on his lap. I've still got three other guys to pick up."

Hinata's blush deepened until it was so red that she was sure her face was glowing. She clamored onto Hidan's lap anyway, and he secured his arms around her, like some kind of human seat belt. The whole ride to the river she never stopped blushing. And Deidara's comments weren't helping.

It was eight when they arrived at the river – now is was ten-thirty. This meant that Hinata had to leave soon. Unfortunately, she realized, this meant that she would need to wake Hidan up.

His head was in her lap, and he was asleep. She was sure her jeans had left tiny imprints in her legs. She shook him a little, "H-Hidan...?"

Instead of responding he raised a hand and rested it against the side of her face before he opened his eyes. His hand crept to the back of her neck, and her eyes widened when he pulled her head down.

'Ah-ah! W-what i-is h-h-he d-d-doing?!'she exclaimed inside. Her lips were inches from his, his warm breath flitting over his face. Kakuzu ruined the moment, "I wouldn't do that if I were you," there was evidence of a smirk being on his lips.

Hidan sighed and let hid hand fall from her head. Hinata bolted straight up instantly, her face a tomato. Hidan stood and she got up and dashed off to a tree. She climbed up it for no reason at all, except to get as far away from Hidan as possible. After five minutes Kakuzu called out to her, and she realized that she didn't know how she was going to get down.

'T-that was n-not a smart thing to do,' she chastised herself. She watched as Hidan walked over.

"Hey, aren't you coming down?"

"I-I-I can't. I'm s-stuck."

Hidan smirked, "I'll come up and get you then, seriously."

He scampered up the tree with ease, and was sitting next to Hinata within seconds. She jumped when he covered her hand with his and she looked away.

"Oi! Now is not the time to play lovebirds! Get 'er down from there, Hidan!" Kisame called out. They were all waiting at the cars, and Kisame was stalking back over, glaring at Hidan who glared back him. Suddenly Hinata found herself in Hidan's lap.

"W-what are you d-doing!?"

"Getting down, seriously. Now hold on," he informed her. She wrapped her arms around him and he flipped backwards. Words and shouts of protest rose up from the Akatsuki. Konan shrieked and Pein shouted something about being careful. Hinata was feeling a little dizzy and when she looked up she saw Kisame.

"You can drop her."

'DROP ME?!'

Hidan attempted to, but she wrapped her legs around him too, squeezing her eyes shut. Hidan chuckled.

"Don't be scared, Hinata. Kisame will catch you. He has a higher chance of catching you than anyone else, seriously."

"Damn straight," she heard Kisame say in agreement.

'On the count of t-three... one... two... three!'

She released Hidan and fell freely for about two seconds before landing safely in Kisame's arms. She watched in awe as Hidan flipped back up and swung down from the branch, landing soundly in a kneeling position. Hinata stared at him, blush flitting across her cheeks. Kisame carried her back over to the car, completely ignoring her requests to be put down.

Kakuzu drove to Hinata's place first, and Hidan got out of the car with her. Kakuzu and the others waited in the car as Hidan walked with Hinata into her home complex. He suddenly dragged her behind one of the trees and pulled her into a hug, his arms wrapped securely around her waist. She blushed furiously as she wrapped her arms around his neck. The both pulled back, Hinata placing her hands on his chest and his arms not straying from her waist, keeping her tightly against him. Their foreheads were touching.

"Ano, t-tonight was f-fun," she began. He made a sound of agreement in the back of his throat, and started playing with his lip ring. Hinata tried not to stare down at it and failed a great deal. Hidan smirked and angled his head so that the bridge of his nose was against hers, "you want to play with it?" he whispered.

She gasped loudly and jerked back. Hidan released her, grinning madly at her blush.

"I-I-I-I'll g-g-go inside n-n-now," she stuttered making a move to go. Hidan already had his arms around her, and she couldn't resist hugging him again. She kissed him on the cheek.

He turned his head very quickly, and she felt that sexy lip ring brush against her lips, along with a soft feel of his. She gasped again and jumped back, her eyes wide and a hand coming up to cover her mouth. He wiggled his fingers at her and she bolted to her house. Once inside she attached her back to the door, and slid down it, her breathing labored and her face very, very red.

--

Hidan climbed back into the car, and Itachi gave him a look of approval. Kisame was staring at him with an agape mouth, one of Kakuzu's eyebrows was raised and Deidara had a look of absolute shock on his face.

"Nice," Itachi commented and Hidan smirked in response. As the car purred to life and they headed on their way Hidan couldn't stop his next though, 'she'll fucking be mine. Seriously.'

didn't you just enjoy this chapter sooooooo much? And what's this? Hidan takes his flirting to the next level! Oo. Look out Sasuke, here comes Hidan!!