I didn't sleep well that night.

My dreams were haunted by visions of Akatsuki confronting me. Every way I turned, they were waiting for me. I could not escape. They would advance cornering me, demanding to know about what I'd witnessed and what I'd tell.

I Jolt up frightened the eyes of the silver headed boy still burned into my vision, I begin to breathe deeply to calm myself down. It was only a dream yet…

"good morning Hinata," one of my maids greets me." You must be exited for today's formal engagement."

My breath catches in my throat, I'd forgotten the arrangement Father had made with the Uchihas. The idea of being wed to a man I hardly know is unthinkable, but if Father requires me to do it. I know I must follow through.

I descend carefully. Taking each step with the utmost care, afraid that I might trip. Slowly walking down, my eyes scan bellow, taking in the many faces, including that of my fiancé. His expression is unreadable, but his ashy eyes never stray from mine.

Itachi glides over to meet me at the foot of the stairs. He holds his hand and I place mine in his grasp as he draws my arm towards him placing a gentle kiss on my fingertips.

"My dear Hinata, you look ravishing on this fine morning." I'm acutely, aware of the burning of my burning cheeks as he lowers my hand. I'm too flustered to reply, but he takes no notice, leading me instead to the dining room table. The other guests fallow suit and join us at the long cherry table.

Almost immediately, servers emerge from the kitchen, carrying elegant silver platters. I soon realise that there is a pattern to the movement; plates would be severed before me and Itachi before the other guests. Always courteous, Itachi would let me try the food first, asking if I was enjoying myself and inquiring about details of my personal life. After the fifth course, Itachi stands, clinking his knife against his glass. Once he has the guests' attention, he begins to speak, glancing down at me every few moments, trying to read my expression. My cheeks burn red, but I never drop my gaze.

"Ladies and gentlemen." His voice is steady. The words flowing naturally from his mouth to reach even the guests at the far end of the hall. "I'd like to formally announce my engagement to the lovely Hinata Hyuuga. I have no doubt that the two of us will have a truly blissful life together as we unite the Hyuuga and Uchiha family for evermore. I would like to thank all of you for coming out to celebrate with us. It would be a honour if you could join us at the official ceremony in four months' time."

I do apologize for the wait , but to make for it I give you two chapters today. We appreciate any comments!