Step by step
Hinata didn't want to kiss Sakura. She didn't want to feel female lips on hers or sweet scent of Sakura's skin. She never even considered kissing someone else but Itachi. Sakura'd told her about great experience of kissing someone you know and who would never put you under any kind of pressure or force you to do anything else but simple, delightful kissing and that was exactly Hinata wished for.
She didn't realise she's been missing it so much. On the other hand, that shouldn't be surprising at all.
After that first night with Itachi, they both had agreed they should take it slow, without any pressure or feeling of obligation. She wasn't feeling ashamed or guilty of it, but once in her life she wanted to be sure she made the right choice before she reveals it to anyone else. She was so glad Itachi felt the same way, as they both knew what would have happened the second their secret had been revealed.
She would never admit it, but it was very exciting to be nervous about being followed or watched. This time was for completely different reason from usual as she really wanted to kiss him more no matter what! It seemed to her Itachi wanted that too, as he was the one who would propose a time and place of their next smooching encounter. That divine period, that lasted about three weeks, ended with his first long mission. To be more precise, it ended when he'd got back.
They haven't talked about how they should behave in public, as they were never at the same place at the same time and, when they were together alone, none of them was thinking about their possible conversation surrounded by other people. Thanks to that carefree way of thinking, the worst happened sooner they'd expected.
It was just a day like any other and Hinata was summoned by Kakashi to accept another S-rank mission she'd really wanted to participate in. Outside Hokage's tower was quite lively, as many chunins were waiting for their team leaders to come back after the briefing with Hokage. Usually there weren't so many shinobi and Hinata wondered what have caused that delay. Soon the answer appeared before her, right in front of the entrance.
Itachi and Shikamaru were on their way out, as they were back after few days out of Konoha and they had a primate to occupy Hokage before anyone else.
''You are back!'' she smiled at them.
''We are, finally!'' Shikamaru sighed and continued walking, obviously tired of everything.
Surprisingly, Itachi didn't follow him. After one short glance at Shikamaru's direction to make sure he didn't care he was walking out by himself, Itachi turned back to speak to Hinata.
''We are back,'' he said plainly.
''And you are not hurt?'' she asked happily, noticing his usual stance which wasn't revealing his body had been injured.
''No,'' he smirked.
''And if he was, I would have fix him for you, Hinata!''
They both startled after hearing Tsunade's voice coming from the above. Hinata looked up. Tsunade was peeking through her office's window, smiling at them.
''Kakashi says you can come back in two hours as he is really busy, so you two can hold your hands together some more!'' she grinned and her head disappeared.
Hinata stunned and looked back at Itachi. He was also surprised by Tsunade's remark. One quick look at their hands explained everything. Every time they would meet, first thing for him to do was embracing her hand as it was simple, but not exaggerated sign of his affection. As their meeting would begin with hand embrace every single time, and their meetings were short but often, Itachi probably didn't even think of they weren't alone at the moment. And Hinata, used to that amount of his touch, didn't notice before Tsunade.
''I'm so sorry!'' he said slowly, not letting go of her hand.
Due to many shinobi who were looking at them after Tsunade's shouting, it couldn't be helped.
''At least you are not injured,'' she deflected her gaze, not knowing where to look thanks to her red face.
He didn't say anything and they stood there for a few moments, hand in hand. She wondered why he was still holding her hand. She didn't want to ask as she didn't mind.
''Two hours?'' he asked when she finally looked at him again.
She nodded. He checked all open-mouthed witnesses around them and shrugged.
''Shall we go then?''
She squeezed his hand a bit more and soon they were walking away from Hokage's tower. Holding hands.
That innocent gesture changed everything and determined their future behaviour. They were never standing too close to each other or talking informally while being surrounded by other people. They would never address each other by their first names in public, but it was useless. First two weeks after that incident, everybody was talking about them. Hinata couldn't even look at her sister or Neji.
The only good thing about it was that her father wasn't against her will to take a short course for becoming a team leader. She suspected that was because he was staring at her hands the entire time, waiting for a ring to appear on her engagement finger. Him and everyone who knew her, as she didn't tell anyone for how long she's been seeing Itachi.
Well, seeing would have been inappropriate to say as her eyes were closed most of the time she'd spent with him. She was feeling completely relaxed in his gentle embrace knowing he won't do anything unless she suggests it or approves it. Therefore, she was having time of her life being kissed by Itachi's thin but soft lips all over her lips and cheeks and, sometimes, neck. Nothing more than that was necessary in their fresh relationship.
The only thing that changed about their meetings, which were still secret, was that they became less frequent. Hinata wasn't surprised by that, it was only natural as Itachi had to handle constant questions about them just like she did. That made him more reserved while they were together as he was constantly worried someone might see them doing, in Hinata's opinion, nothing unusual. Who would've thought everybody will make big deal out if it? Not only her family, but the entire village. She hated being an heiress more than ever. On the other hand, if she hadn't been one, nothing would have happened the way it'd happened. Or not so soon, at least.
To prevent everybody's constant staring at her hands, Hinata was always looking for a reason to carry something that would cover her palms. If that wasn't possible, she would cover her palms with her long sleeves as she couldn't stand that torment. She even thought of revealing more of her skin below her neck to avoid people's glancing at her hands! She's been telling herself she was a big girl and she would rather be asked about her engagement than breasts! She didn't intend to show her imperfect body to anyone. Every time someone tried to spot a piece of jewellery she didn't have, her anxiety was becoming more unbearable.
That night she didn't have anything to carry so she was more nervous. The entire month had passed and instead of curiosity, Hinata had to handle people's compassionate looks. She was so furious! So what if she was an heiress? Did that mean she was supposed to get engaged to another heir so soon? On the other hand, she didn't tell anyone anything. To be completely honest, nobody cared what she was feeling now as they didn't care before.
While marching through Konoha's streets, she was glad another day'd come to an end. All she wanted at the moment were soft pillows and blankets to forget about every silly question she will probably hear million times again and again as long as things between her and Itachi don't change. In one way or the other. And for both of the drastic moves was way too early.
After greeting an acquaintance by simple nodding in her direction, and after lifting her gaze to see the end of the street, familiar dark eyes met hers.
''Itachi-san!'' Hinata startled.
He nodded, avoiding to address her at all, so he could not do it inappropriately.
''Is something wrong?'' she asked, as it was unusual for him to appear out of nowhere.
''I was about to ask the same question.''
''What? Why? Everything's fine!'' she said quickly, not knowing what's on his mind.
''Are you sure?''
She nodded.
''Are you in a hurry?''
''No, why?''
''Can we talk somewhere else?''
''You mean now?'' she stuttered.
''Didn't you say you're not in a hurry?''
''I'm not!''
''Huh.''
This was awkward. He's never announced need to talk. They would just leave somewhere, usually a bit away from the village, to be sure nobody might interrupt or disturb them. The last thing she wanted was somebody to bother Itachi or her while they were trying to be a normal couple, as their meetings were short due to many other responsibilities both of them had. Even now Itachi just got back from the evening training, as she could see he was wearing his usual training outfit.
''Are you mad about something?'' he asked while they were on their way to the village gate.
''No,'' she replied as fast as possible, because she didn't want him to think that, and this question out of the blue, while they were still in the street with a few people, was very different from usual.
''Then somebody?'' he was persistent, yet she didn't hear anything strange in his deep voice.
''No,'' she tried to respond calmly.
''Huh. Then your leader exam?''
''No!'' she snapped.
That wasn't very calm. This morning's team leader exam went well, but she needed to wait till tomorrow, after all interested jounins are done with showing their skills.
''Why? Did you hear something?'' she heard herself asking to avoid another question.
He stopped walking. She turned to him, but he was looking away.
''Do you think I might be an obstacle for you?''
''No! Why would you think that?'' she asked quickly, as that last question was probably on his mind the whole time.
It was a completely valid question. Everybody was surprisingly supportive lately. The entire Hyuuga clan, even the ones who were obviously envious because of the whole fuss about her freshly uncovered relationship. She has been encouraged her whole life, but now expectations she had to fulfil were unreasonable.
Itachi looked at her.
''Are you mad at me?''
''No! Did someone tell you something? Is everything okay?'' she responded, trying to sound as calm as possible.
She was trying to smile, but his usual glare was unreadable and, right now, she wished for any sign, just for a second, that might calm her, as she couldn't understand his worry.
''Huh. You look like something's bothering you.''
Well, he didn't look like that, as he was never showing any emotion, unlike his questions, which were revealing that something's on his mind too.
''You won't tell me?'' he asked plainly.
''It's nothing in particular,'' Hinata faked a smile, ''just usual stuff!''
''Huh.''
Itachi deflected his gaze.
She couldn't tell him in only one sentence what's bothering her. Right now she was wondering why he was standing so far away, being close to the village gate, with nobody around. She also wanted to know if his brother was acting differently like her sister and if she was the main subject at the dinner table just like he was at her house. She was certain nobody was smiling at him whenever one of the following was mentioned: white, red, clan, dark, honour, duty, expectation, new generation, future, youngsters and happily ever after.
''Were you training with your brother until now?'' she asked after they continued leaving the village.
''No,'' he said plainly. ''Clan's duty, so he went by himself.''
''Will you meet him later?''
''Do you want me to leave?''
''Of course not!'' she said quickly. ''I was just wondering how much time-''
''I planned to spend with you,'' he interrupted.
She didn't say anything although that hadn't been a problem. Hinata was trying to find out what might have happened to make him act more strange than usual. Maybe he heard about some new dangerous mission he was assigned to or about her upcoming missions. It could be anything.
Konoha was finally behind them, but he didn't reach for her hand to hold it. Maybe somebody was around but she didn't notice as she was thinking about her next question to end the silence the second they stop walking. She couldn't know he would do it instead.
''I see you are not mad any more,'' he said plainly, not looking at her.
''I wasn't-''
''I'm glad you're not,'' he interrupted and turned to her. ''Does that mean I am not the reason?''
She shook her head and smiled.
''It's not how you expected, is it?'' he deflected his gaze.
She couldn't reply since she wasn't sure what he'd meant.
''Is this too much for you?'' he asked, looking away.
Too much of what? Too much pressure because of people she didn't even know that knew her name too much time spent with anyone else but him too much questions in her head she wanted to ask but was too afraid to hear his answers? Too much distance between them right now? Too much concern what this question might mean?
''Can you-can you be more specific?'' she asked.
''I don't know,'' he shrugged. ''It's just like you said once. You can't run away from who you are.''
Hinata nodded, to rush him to get to the point.
''You know what awaits you at the end,'' he continued. ''I must remind you that you can run away from this.''
He was gazing at her like he was waiting for her to say something. She wanted, but couldn't. Did he just offer her to run away from him? And what did he mean when he'd said 'at the end'? End of what? She didn't say anything and he deflected his gaze. She was trying to look where he was looking at and soon they were both staring at his right palm, which was closed and stretched in front of him.
Hinata glanced at Itachi, but he was the same as always and she didn't know what to expect.
He slowly opened his palm to reveal its content.
Hinata covered her mouth with both of her palms. She didn't know which colour her face was right now, but her heartbeats got faster just like her breathing. Thanks to its size, Hinata could clearly see pink gem on white ring sparkling before her.
She thought she might pass out any second now considering all the questions that came to her mind after seeing the ring. She was very thankful she has never been able to speak during stressful situations. She doubted that screaming 'why' would be appropriate. Why and many others like why now, why so soon and, the most important, why her.
His words spoken before made sense now. The end of their short-lasting lovely kissing must turn out into something more serious or end for good. Although she can run away from him, running away from herself was intolerable.
Beautiful ring wasn't an answer to any of her questions, it only created some more. If he loved her, why didn't he say so? If he'd said it, then she might feel brave enough to say it too. This way she couldn't be sure what'd made him or for long he's been planning to do this.
Hinata couldn't even look at him right now, as his gaze wouldn't reveal what he was feeling for real. Was she really the one he'd always wanted? If so, why didn't he tell her? Why this was happening so soon and he'd promised to take it slow? If this was slow for him, then what was fast? Hinata knew the answer. It wasn't slow for Itachi, but for the ones around him. Just like her, he couldn't run away from what he was born to become.
She hesitated. So many things remained mystery to her and she wasn't ready to become someone's wife.
When his palm started closing, without saying a word, she stopped him and took the ring.
She didn't get the chance to look at him as she got pulled in his gentle, but firm embrace. He didn't say anything, either, although he was hugging her more firm than ever, like he really wanted to make sure he disabled her from running away. Too bad she was too excited to enjoy his presence so close after quite some time. The only thing in her head was: I must become Itachi's wife now!
Back then, it seemed that she'd done the right thing as she hadn't wanted that night to be their last one and she'd strongly believed everything would get better.
She'd thought the pressure would vanish, but everything got worse. It was her choice. That's what she decided by herself. Now she doubted every single question she'd asked, every action, every smile. Instead of going slow, they weren't going anywhere.
Nothing changed. Well, it has, but it got worse. Before, being silent meant they were kissing, and now it meant they weren't ready to hear the other one's honest opinion on anything. Forbidden word was the wedding. If she says they don't need to rush into anything, he might think she doesn't want it, and if she was too worked up about the wedding date, as they couldn't decide on their own thanks to the most important wedding in history, he might think she wants to become his wife as soon as possible!
Hinata had to be more perfect, and she was just more miserable than ever. Biggest issue remained unsolved because none of them spoke about them, but only about others and what their marriage meant for somebody else. And apparently, it was more important to everyone else. Heir and heiress will join in matrimony and the years of rivalry between the clans will be forgotten! They will live happily forever and everything will be perfect!
What's the point in asking question what would probably be answered in a way you wanted to hear? For example, was she just a Hyuuga heiress to him, was he regretting holding her hand back then outside Hokage's tower, will they be able to fulfil their parents' expectations? Were they doing this because they'd really wanted it? Will they be happy no matter what?
The time was passing by and she began doubting her decision. She was telling herself that she has the time to make everything right, but the wedding was very soon and she wondered if she would been happier if she hadn't taken that ring.
The only thing Hinata was certain of was that Itachi will never again make her feel like that first night. Without any concern for future, for other people's expectation or opinion, without feeling anxious while having her arms around him because she really wanted to.
She thought she would never feel it again.
After Ino finally stopped Sakura from trying to knock Ino on the floor to get on top of her, Hinata could see how every word Sakura'd said was true.
''Sorry,'' Sakura coughed and tried to not look at Temari or Hinata.
None of them reacted to Sakura's apology, as they were still to stunned. Temari didn't try to stop them or make an inappropriate comment which totally surprised Hinata.
''Well, Sakura,'' Ino chuckled, ''one more time and, and,'' she was stuttering unable to find the right word.
''And what?'' Sakura smiled at her, a bit rosy. ''I will get it how you really like it?''
''Pretty much, yeah,'' Ino commended and smirked.
Hinata and Temari were speechless.
''What's the matter, Hinata?'' Sakura asked. ''Why are you looking so sad?''
Hinata shrugged.
''It seemed better than you'd told me.''
''What do you mean? You don't kiss like that?'' Ino asked plainly. ''If that's so, then why-''
Temari was glaring at Ino, so she didn't continue.
''It came out totally wrong!'' Ino said quickly. ''Of course you don't because Sakura is a girl!''
''And your best friend and you trust her,'' Hinata forced a smile.
''Right!'' Ino smiled. ''You got it!''
No wonder Hinata didn't kiss like that. The person she trusted the most was Temari and another girl she's spent much time with was definitely Sakura. Hinata felt happy and sad because of it at the same time. Why did she need so long to find someone she could trust and feel so close to? All in all, it was good she did.
''There's nothing you should be worried about, Hinata,'' Sakura added happily.
''Temari is just like you.,'' Ino said looking at Temari. ''She doesn't have a close friend, either, because she likes to be independent.''
''And what's wrong with that?'' Temari gave her glare.
''Nothing, I didn't mean it's a bad thing. For some people it's great,'' Ino explained. ''I, for example, wouldn't feel as good as this without having Sakura around.''
They were smiling at each other again.
''Stop it already!'' Temari ordered. ''You act like a fresh couple!''
''I know you are jealous, Temari,'' Ino said plainly. ''There is only one way to change that!''
''I won't kiss you!'' Temari said quickly.
''Who said I want you to?'' Ino sneered.
''Or Hinata!'' Temari said and regretted it the same second.
Hinata could conclude it after seeing Temari's compassionate expression.
''I didn't mean like that!'' she added quickly.
''I know, Temari-san,'' Hinata smiled, ''you are too considerate to do something like that. And it's a good thing,'' she commended.
Temari didn't say anything. Hinata didn't mean nothing bad as she understood Temari's opinion very well. She found a person that completely understands her and Temari was thinking that letting someone else to do something it was reserved just for that special person like something prohibited and repulsive.
''Right,'' Temari said firmly. ''What else have you planned for tonight?''
''Why is that important?'' Ino sighed. ''Everything turns out the way I couldn't have imagined.''
''You sound like you don't like it,'' Sakura frowned.
''No!'' Ino said quickly. ''You always get it the worst possible way! The best things that happened to you are unplanned!''
Sakura didn't look like she was convinced.
''Like your kiss with Ino-chan!'' Hinata jumped in.
''Exactly! And it happens because you are not tensed,'' Ino explained. ''That's why you can do now whatever you want next!''
''Even leave?'' Sakura asked.
''Not until we find out when we'll meet again,'' Temari frowned. ''And you really want to leave?''
''The night has just begun!'' Sakura smiled and gave Ino a quick kiss on the cheek.
''If only you could say that to somebody else,'' Temari provoked Sakura.
''Wait!'' Ino raised her hand. ''I won't let this great night turn into an argument. Especially not between you and Sakura!''
''How sweet!'' Temari sneered. ''You must protect your beloved one!''
''That's why I'm here for!'' Ino responded happily.
Hinata knew Temari wasn't in such a good mood and she thought of great idea to stop their nonsense conversation in advance.
''Can we continue with persuading?'' Hinata asked before Temari had managed to say anything.
''We can,'' Ino began, ''but you are pretty good at it and, to be honest, I don't think you can learn something more from us.''
''Huh,'' Hinata nodded, as she didn't know how to react to Ino's compliment, ''maybe Sakura-chan should try then?''
''Great idea!'' Temari commended. ''Sakura, begin!''
Sakura didn't look like she thought of something.
''Maybe Hinata could help her out?'' Ino suggested.
''I would love to!'' Hinata smiled.
Sakura shrugged, still thinking of something she would like to see happening.
''No wonder you are hesitating, Sakura-chan, when you got what you'd wanted!''
''Actually,'' Temari jumped in,''You were the one who made them do it. Maybe Sakura didn't want it.''
''It's impossible, Temari,'' Sakura protested, ''Hinata said it before.''
''Can you repeat it, Hinata?'' Ino requested.
''What exactly?'' Hinata asked.
''You know,'' Sakura smiled, ''what's so great about kissing.''
''Oh that!'' Hinata smiled. ''Well, there's nothing more behind it and you don't need to worry about anything else, just enjoy!''
Sakura turned to Ino and Hinata thought for a moment they might kiss again. Ino nodded encouragingly and Sakura grinned. Hinata thought they'd probably postponed it for later.
''Close your eyes!''
Hinata startled to Sakura's order.
''What, why, I don't –''
''Sakura!'' Temari hissed, but Ino prevented her from stopping Sakura.
''You will be fine,'' Sakura said quietly, now very close to Hinata, ''just remember to breathe.''
Hinata was too stunned to object to Sakura's obvious intention. She wasn't sure what she was hoping to feel, but she didn't stop it. In a flash, Hinata was certain she didn't feel nothing like Sakura a few moments before, but she couldn't say Sakura's extremely soft and gentle peck bothered her in any way. It felt more right than wrong and it seemed like Sakura was afraid of rejection. Knowing how it went the last time, Hinata didn't want to repeat the same mistake and make her think she didn't like it. Just a moment before Sakura began moving away, Hinata wrapped her hands around Sakura's neck to pull her closer for more. And she didn't regret it. This time Sakura wasn't timid and, instead of a quick peck, Hinata got a long, tender kiss. After Sakura'd embraced her, Hinata felt confident enough to initiate one more smooch that made her feel the way she wished for every kiss to be. Loving, desirable and carefree.
There was one more thing bothering Hinata. It included much more than kissing and, unlike kissing, nobody could replace Itachi. Not that she wanted it, but maybe she was too nervous around him. The problem was within her and she was aware of that, and no matter how much she's been trying, nothing was helpful. And she was certain she wasn't suppose to feel that way.
Why would anyone go through that kind of pain? More than once? And for fun? And pleasure? At this moment, it seemed impossible to enjoy one bit. Temari was assuring her that was completely normal. Although Sakura and Ino mentioned their horrifying experience also, Hinata was certain they were just trying to make her feel better. Nobody should feel any unpleasant feeling while being with someone you deeply care about. Ino wasn't making it any easier because now Hinata knew the exquisite feeling she was waiting for didn't depend on their affection for each other. It didn't make sense that someone who doesn't care about you at all makes you as delirious as Ino was describing it. Hinata didn't think Ino was lying, it just seemed a bit exaggerated. At least one thing out of that two. Maybe even both.
Maybe it was like kissing, she needed to really want it. Well, she did. She thought she had, yet her body was refusing to show willingness.
Itachi wasn't the one to blame as he didn't do anything without her consent. Ever. She couldn't decide what was worse: her inability to endure the pain during it or his apologizing afterwards, for causing that pain .
Hinata wasn't sure if she needs to eliminate the feeling of pain before the wedding or just let it happen somehow. Especially when she would have to be the one to initiate as Itachi made it clear he doesn't find appealing the idea of causing her more pain, whatever the reason might be. At this moment she couldn't object to his wish, but she was getting a bit anxious due to the lack of time before the big day.
Luckily, she wasn't by herself.
After last time's happy ending, Hinata was really looking forward to today's meeting with the girls. She's seen Sakura only once this week and Hinata thought they weren't acting differently due to their kiss. Temari was more busy as Shikamaru wanted her to help out with an additional training for young genins. She wasn't thrilled as she disliked working with non-strong shinobi who were finding her ways of training too violent. Hinata thought Temari'd accepted it just to kill some time until Ino's return. Temari would never admit it, but, among them, she was the one who was the most ecstatic about Ino coming back. She even arranged meeting in the middle of the day, to have Ino in a good mood for, well, whatever they'd thought of last night during their one-on-one briefing.
Shikamaru informed Temari he'll be busy the entire day, so Hinata was rushing to get to his house as she was late again. Sakura had other duties and Hinata had to deal with Mikoto's final demands by herself.
They were all sitting outside of Shikamaru's house.
''I'm sorry I'm late!''
''Don't worry, we have plenty of time today,'' Temari smiled at her.
''Actually,'' Ino stood up, not daring to say anything as Temari was looking very angry after her announcement.
''It's me,'' Sakura said sadly. ''I have to leave tonight.''
''Let's hurry then,'' Temari sighed.
''I think we should take it inside,'' Ino suggested. ''We don't want neighbours to see something like the last time.''
''No!'' Sakura said quickly and got up.
''What are we doing today?'' Hinata asked happily, while following Temari inside.
''Nothing you are not ready for!'' Temari replied.
Sakura sat on a couch while Ino was signalling Hinata to sit next to her. Temari brought drinks and put it on the coffee table between the couch and an armchair, where she sat.
''Now,'' Ino began after she'd sat on the floor to be able to look at all of them at the same time, ''Temari and I came to the conclusion neither of you like talking.''
Hinata nodded and glanced at Sakura who also seemed to agree.
''It can't be excluded,'' Temari continued, ''so it will be short.''
''We have learnt enough about you two to take this to the next level.''
''Instead of others, you'll tell us something about yourselves.''
All Sakura and Hinata could do was nod as Temari and Ino really planned to shorten the talking part, unfortunately, not by talking less, but by talking faster.
''To get to the point,'' Ino said firmly, ''first you will name one thing about yourselves that you would never change.''
''There's no such thing,'' Hinata said plainly.
She's been thinking about it for years and she really didn't get it what was making her cute or adorable, which were the most usual comments about her.
''You are not serious,'' Temari smiled, ''you are just too modest.''
''I am.''
''No, you are not,'' Temari persisted. ''You are trying to make us believe you don't see how beautiful you are?''
''Somebody's coming on to Hinata!'' Ino chuckled.
''At least I'm saying what I really think,'' Temari said strictly.
''Hinata?'' Ino looked at her. ''Can we hear your opinion?''
''I think Temari-san wants to make me feel better.''
''Not that!'' Ino frowned. ''What you like?''
''Nothing,'' Hinata shrugged.
''Stop saying that!'' Temari snapped. ''It's like you want us to deny it!''
Hinata stunned. She didn't want anything. Except to get over with the talking part.
''Calm down, Temari,'' Ino said carefully. ''She doesn't see herself the way you do. Check with Sakura.''
''What about me?''
''What do you like about yourself?''
''Well, I didn't think about it until now,'' Sakura said honestly.
''You know,'' Ino sounded annoyed, ''we are trying to move on, but we can't skip this step and you are not making it easier.''
''Do you like your hair?'' Temari asked suddenly.
''Yes.''
''Your eyes, your smile, your insane strength?'' Ino continued.
''Well,'' Sakura grinned, ''I do.''
''There you go,'' Ino sighed. ''Was that so hard?''
''Now you, Hinata,'' Temari ordered.
Hinata took a deep breath.
''I hate my hair. It has strange colour in the sunlight. Thanks to my purple eyes, I look intimidated all the time. And thanks to this,'' she looked down, ''I can forget about cute tops Sakura-chan wears.''
Ino chuckled, but Hinata was serious.
''Look, Hinata,'' she smiled, ''nobody's perfect. Sakura probably hates her small breasts too.''
''I do not!'' Sakura protested. ''But it would be better if they were a bit bigger,'' she added sadly.
''It's not what you have, but how you use it,'' Temari explained. ''If you have great legs, but you are not half-naked, nobody will think you are showing off.''
''And since you mentioned breasts,'' Ino grinned, ''nobody calls you a flirt as you are not exposing them.''
''Like certain someone,'' Sakura giggled.
''We are not talking about me now,'' Ino ignored Sakura's comment, ''ss we still didn't hear Hinata.''
''You won't hear it!'' Hinata snapped. ''I'm not like you!''
Ino stunned, but she didn't take Hinata's words as an insult.
''Nobody wants you to be,'' she said calmly, ''but a bit more confidence would be great.''
Hinata knew that very well.
''Besides, we are not getting younger. You will never again be as beautiful as today. And what difference does it make if your body is not perfect?'' Ino shrugged, ''It's your body and you have to love it, you don't have another one! How can you expect from someone else to love it if you don't?''
That question remained unanswered as none of them said anything.
''Maybe we should move on,'' Temari suggested.
''Right,'' Ino got up. ''You stand up too!''
They obeyed and stood up.
''Now,'' Ino clapped her hands, ''As we could see last time you like kissing, we will go a bit lower!''
''Where? Is that why we talked about-'' Hinata began, but Temari interrupted.
''No need to worry, Hinata. You will stay dressed.''
''Unless you don't want to,'' Ino added.
Hinata shook her head.
''Do you know what a love bite is?'' Temari asked.
''Love bite?'' Hinata repeated and looked at Sakura.
Sakura shrugged, not knowing either.
''Seriously?'' Ino sighed. ''Now what?''
''Well, explain,'' Sakura rolled her eyes.
''And we all hate talking,'' Ino sighed. ''Maybe I should demonstrate?''
''Don't look at me!'' Temari said seriously. ''I told you a long time ago you won't touch me.''
''It was your idea,'' Ino shrugged. ''I wanted something more.''
''Of course you were,'' Temari rolled her eyes. ''Unfortunately for you, they are not ready to get naked.''
''I know, but it would fast things up,'' Ino explained.
''We still don't know what's a love bite,'' Sakura reminded. ''I don't like biting.''
''It's a blood sucking through your skin,'' Temari began, ''but in a way that leaves a little bruise and-''
''It's better than it sounds,'' Ino jumped in, noticing Sakura's frowning.
''Why would anyone want a bruise?'' she asked.
''When it's done properly, it's really worth it,'' Ino grinned. ''Sometimes you don't want to heal it because it reminds you how great it felt!''
''And how will we know are we doing it properly?'' Hinata asked.
''Don't worry, it's not complicated,'' Ino explained, ''and you will notice by Temari's reaction.''
''Temari's reaction?'' Hinata repeated, as Temari didn't look like she had the same idea as Ino.
''You said it yourself,'' Ino began, looking at Temari. ''Hinata is yours, you will do it on me, I will do it on Sakura, she on Hinata, so Hinata can do it on you.''
''Huh,'' Temari nodded, ''it's fine with me.''
''Whenever you're ready!''
''I am,'' Temari rolled her eyes. ''Watch closely!'' she ordered.
Hinata and Sakura nodded, waiting to see what's so great about it. It didn't sound like something pleasant, then again, maybe that's the whole point, to make them stop unless they like it.
Temari stood behind Ino and Ino put all of her hair on the right.
''Now it makes sense!'' Sakura chuckled.
''Of course!'' Temari frowned. ''What did you think, sucking your arm should feel pleasant?''
''Well, sometimes,'' Ino stuttered. ''And don't talk so close!''
''I didn't yell.''
''Yeah,'' Ino took a deep breath, ''I know.''
''Is everything all right?'' Sakura asked, as she could see Ino's acting unusual.
''Well it's not my fault that's my weak spot!''
''Weak spot?'' Sakura repeated.
''Oh I get it now!'' Temari grinned. ''This might be fun!''
''Just do it already!'' Ino ordered.
Temari smirked and embraced Ino's waist with one hand, and held her hair with the other one. She opened her mouth and, for a second, it really looked like she's about to bite Ino's neck. She didn't look like Temari's doing something repulsive. Having her eyes closed and both of her hands on Temari's hand around her waist, Ino looked like love biting was the best awkward kind of kissing ever! No need to mention she seemed very unhappy when Temari'd stopped and a small light red bruise appeared on her neck's left side.
''All right,'' Ino said happily and fixed her hair when Temari'd moved away from her. ''Did you get the picture?''
''Sort of,'' Sakura shrugged. ''I mean, kissing seems better.''
''Maybe, but this is a bit different,'' Ino started to heal to erase the red bruise. ''I couldn't control Temari in any way, so I just had to trust her she won't bite me for real!''
''And you didn't like it?'' Hinata asked, pointing at Ino's healing hand.
''Oh no! It was great!'' she smiled. ''It's nothing personal, my neck has to be perfect!''
''You will heal me too?'' Hinata asked.
''If necessary,'' Ino stopped healing. ''Depends on Sakura.''
''Me?''
''Yeah,'' Ino came closer to Sakura and put a hair behind her left ear. ''You can control how much damage you do. I'll show you in a flash!''
''And if I don't like it?'' Sakura asked quickly, to prevent Ino from starting.
''I doubt you won't, but you can stop me if it makes you uncomfortable,'' Ino smiled. ''It will feel different from anything else, so give me enough time to show you how great it is!''
Hinata was more impatient to feel it for herself, and at the same time, she didn't want to rush Sakura. The better Ino explains, the better Sakura will perform it on her.
''Does it hurt at the start?'' Hinata heard herself asking.
''No!'' Ino grinned. ''Unless you want it. Just use your teeth!''
''No!'' Hinata shook her head. ''I meant, it should feel good no matter what?''
''You might feel tickling if it takes too long or with too much tongue,'' Ino explained, ''but not the pain.''
''Oh come on, hurry!'' Sakura rushed. ''You are making me nervous!''
''Just relax! You probably did it before, but not with talking this much!''
''I'm not sure, I would remember something like-''
''Let me remind you!'' Ino said happily and cupped Sakura's head with her palm to get in most comfortable position to do whatever she'd planned to do.
Very soon shy smile appeared on Sakura's face, like she wasn't sure if she liked something for the first time. It seemed like she was uncomfortable, but not because it felt unpleasant, but because she was embarrassed.
''Well?'' Ino met Sakura's gaze. ''Did you like it?''
''Was I supposed to feel like that?''
''Like what?'' Hinata stunned, a bit worried.
''Like you want more and want to stop me at the same time?'' Ino smirked.
''I'm not so sure,'' Temari jumped in. ''You were a bit rough for the first time!''
Hinata could see the bruise on Sakura's neck really was more bloody red than the one Temari'd made.
''Whoops!'' Ino chuckled. ''I'll fix it right away!'' Ino said and put her hand on the red spot to heal.
The moment she'd done it, Sakura took her hand.
''No way, I have to see it! Where is the mirror?''
''The bathroom?'' Temari shrugged.
''Wait, Sakura!''
Ino's plea was in vain because Sakura was dragging her out of the room so Ino could show her where the bathroom was.
''I mean,'' Hinata could hear Sakura's voice, ''I wonder how bad it looks if it feels so great!''
They couldn't hear Ino's reply, but they assumed what was happening after hearing them giggling again.
''And they are alone again,'' Temari rolled her eyes. ''And in the mood too.''
Hinata shrugged.
''Will we wait for them?''
''I won't interrupt them,'' Temari said after more giggling was heard.
''Maybe it's better that way,'' Hinata said plainly. ''Sakura-chan gets carried away easily.''
''Why didn't you stop her if you didn't want it?'' Temari scolded her.
''No, it was fine!'' Hinata said quickly.
''Nobody should do anything that makes you feel uncomfortable,'' Temari continued, ''and you shouldn't care for their feelings if they don't care for yours.''
''I know.''
''Is Sakura giving you a hard time?'' Temari asked quietly, staring at the door where she expected Sakura and Ino to appear soon. ''I won't tell her,'' she added, noticing Hinata's hesitating.
''It's not that, Temari-san. She's been very helpful about everything,'' Hinata smiled, ''but I'm not her best friend. And she is not mine.''
''Huh,'' Temari frowned.
''I think she is doing all of this to impress Mikoto-san.''
''Understandable,'' Temari said seriously,''Because Mikoto-san likes you more.''
Hinata shrugged.
''I wonder if she is all right,'' Hinata said honestly. ''That bruise was quite big.''
''It doesn't work that way. The bruise was bigger because Ino wanted to show Sakura the real feeling,'' Temari explained. ''She wasn't gentle, but it didn't hurt at all.''
''Then why did you make a small one on Ino-chan's neck?''
''She enjoys all of this way too much,'' Temari rolled her eyes. ''And we are not here for her, but because of you.''
Hinata deflected her gaze to the floor. It was the second time she was told that she's the problem and she couldn't do anything but agree with that.
''Maybe we should sit while we are waiting,'' Temari suggested. ''That's all we can do until Sakura gets back.''
Hinata sat next to Temari who was staring at the door.
''Or we don't have to waste any more time,'' Hinata said, staring at the floor.
''What do you mean?''
''Well,'' Hinata was still staring at the floor, ''I don't think Sakura-chan will be able to do the same Ino-chan did to her. I mean, they know each other better and everything.''
''And you don't want her to overdo it?'' Temari asked, sounded worried.
Hinata shrugged.
''I see. To be honest, I think you would like it.''
''I'm not sure. I was thinking I would like many things and now I hate them.''
''We can't let that happened!'' Temari said so firmly that Hinata startled. ''I won't let that happen,'' she added more calmly.
''Thank you, Temari-san,'' Hinata smiled at her.
''It's no big deal, but you will have to remove your hair.''
''My hair?'' Hinata repeated. ''You mean you will-''
''I won't if you don't want me to.''
Hinata shrugged.
''You can do it to me afterwards!'' Temari suggested.
''But what if you don't like it?''
''Let me worry about me and you just relax!''
Hinata didn't say anything since Temari was always so nice to her for no reason at all. On the other hand, both Ino and Sakura seemed to enjoy this love bite thing and Temari herself said Hinata might like it too.
''Why are we doing this, Temari-san?'' Hinata asked while revealing her neck's left side.
''It's more complicated than kissing, as only one person at a time is being caressed,'' Temari explained and got closer to Hinata. ''You will see soon enough.''
Hinata took a deep breath, trying not to be nervous. Not only Temari will bite her neck, but she will have to do it too!
''If you don't like it, just say it,'' Temari ordered, ''since you will be able to talk.''
Hinata nodded, hoping it will be over soon. She did want to see what's so good about it, but she wasn't sure she would like it more than kissing. Not to mention she will have to do the same on Temari's neck!
Hinata forgot about everything when Temari put both of her hands on Hinata's shoulders.
''I'm telling you this for the last time,'' Temari said strictly. ''You mustn't care how I would feel if you stop me. It's about you. And only you!''
Hinata nodded and took a deep breath.
''I will do it step by step, and feel free to do anything to stop me from going further.''
Hinata nodded quickly, as she was getting a bit impatient. Temari really liked to talk more than Ino!
''Temari-san,'' Hinata managed to whisper, ''just do it already!''
''Actually, I was waiting for you to say that!'' Temari grinned and pulled her closer.
A soft kiss between Hinata's neck and right shoulder made Hinata's heartbeats faster. Another one followed and Hinata couldn't help but smirk. Temari was more gentle than Hinata could ever imagine. Very soon she felt more of Temari's moisten lips and a light touch with the tongue. Although it was very pleasant until now, Hinata wasn't prepared for a strange feeling when Temari's gentle suction began. It really felt like biting, but without using teeth, and after five unusual bites, Temari met her gaze.
''How big is it?'' Hinata asked before Temari could ask about her opinion.
''Very small,'' Temari touched the bitten spot. ''I don't think you will need healing.''
''Now I have to do it?''
''If you feel like it.''
Hinata nodded and carefully placed her hand on a spot she intended to suck on Temari's skin.
''Maybe a bit higher,'' Temari gently moved Hinata's hand right below her ear, ''I don't have a long hair.''
''Right,'' Hinata nodded, but was still indecisive about how should she do it.
''It's just like a long kiss you don't want to end,'' Temari explained and turned her head to the right.
Hinata felt better by not being looked at, so she got closer.
''And remember,'' Temari said quickly, ''everything you do will feel great!''
Hinata didn't believe that, but she took it as an encouragement to do it and she did.
Look on Temari's face was revealing too much.
''Oh no!'' Hinata covered her face with her palms.
''It's not you, really, I'm the bad teacher!'' Temari was comforting her. ''Can I do it again?''
''What's the use?'' Hinata shrugged.
Temari smirked and removed Hinata's hair from her face completely.
''You go slowly and like you want to bite it and kiss at the same time,'' she got closer to perform it again, but she stopped. ''May I use teeth so you get it?''
''Will it hurt?'' Hinata frowned.
''No, but it won't be so gentle, either.''
''If it might help,'' Hinata shrugged, but Temari knew her too well.
''You will do it one more time,'' she pointed to the other spot, ''and I will tell you what to do.''
''Will I hurt you?'' Hinata asked quickly.
''I highly doubt it,'' Temari chuckled.
Hinata wasn't happy. Why she couldn't do it the same way as Temari? Was it that hard after all?
''First, you will gently bite my neck for real and put your lips together.''
Temari was explaining and Hinata nodding. Just when she was about to get down to business, Temari noticed she wasn't thinking about that bad first time any more and caught Hinata completely unprepared for another love bite. Hinata couldn't object as it all happened too fast.
Even if she could have objected, she wouldn't have done it. Temari's second love bite was exactly how she'd told she wanted it: first she really gently bit Hinata's neck, then tasted it to proceed with more suction and tender kissing. Hinata was sure the bruise was bigger this time as she'd enjoyed more than the first time and felt a bit disappointed when Temari'd ended it.
''Like that?'' Hinata stuttered.
''Your turn,'' Temari encouraged her, turning to her the spot on the other side of her neck.
Hinata took a deep breath and this time came closer much slower than the first time. Thanks to that, she got the chance to feel more of Temari's soft skin before she decided to create another bruise. She gently pressed her teeth against Temari's neck to be sure she won't overdo it, and, as she was about to continue with the suction, she got closer and put her hands around Temari's neck. Temari didn't do anything, and, assuming she would stop her in case of something unpleasant, Hinata went a bit lower to make another tiny, but deeper mark. After she thought Temari should be satisfied this time, Hinata moved away.
''Why?'' Temari was looking surprised.
''No?'' Hinata asked, wondering if Temari meant of too many marks.
''Why did you stop?'' she asked quickly. ''Did I look like I want that?''
Hinata was about to say something, but she couldn't think clearly when Temari pressed her lips to her neck again. Hinata chuckled as this time she was completely relaxed to actually say what she liked the most.
''You don't have to be,'' she whispered, ''so gentle!''
''Uh-huh,'' Temari mumbled, as she moved to another spot.
Hinata suddenly wanted to feel more of Temari's skin.
''Just a bit longer,'' Temari instructed her a second before Hinata bit her again.
Hinata wasn't sure why Temari was letting her to do it over again. Maybe she was really untalented to give somebody else delightful feeling Temari was giving her by using her soft lips in a way Hinata couldn't even think of until today.
''Let's do it, Hinata,'' Hinata heard Sakura's happy voice. ''You have to feel for yourself how great-''
''I think she got it, didn't she, Temari?'' Ino laughed when she'd entered the room.
Temari was very surprised by their sudden arrival and Hinata couldn't do anything but stare at Temari's neck which was almost completely covered in bruises, which were all very red.
''What's the matter, Hinata?'' Sakura asked quietly while she was healing Hinata's neck, while sitting on the couch.
''I wonder,'' Hinata glanced at Temari who was standing while Ino was taking care of her bruises, ''would Temari-san have stopped me if she hadn't liked it.''
Whatever Sakura wanted to say, Hinata didn't hear.
''I said to stop touching me so much!''
''It's not my fault you need the healing!''
Temari glanced at Hinata, but didn't look angry.
''Did you like it?'' Sakura asked quietly, trying not to upset Ino or Temari.
''It was an interesting experience,'' Hinata replied plainly.
Sakura'd asked that to make her more relaxed and Hinata didn't want to tell her love biting with Temari was million times better than kissing another girl. In their case, Sakura was that girl.
''By the way,'' Sakura finished healing, ''your long hair is perfect for hiding the bruises. In case you decide to try it out again.''
Hinata smiled shyly as she was almost certain she will repeat it. She didn't care about the small bruises as they really were reminder of a great kind-of-kissing action.
''Here!'' Ino said happily. ''You are done!''
Temari rolled her eyes.
''But seriously,'' Ino put a hand on Temari right shoulder and moved her shirt a bit, ''how did you manage to make so many of them?'' she asked as Temari had a little mark under her shirt.
''You can leave that one!'' Temari gave her glare and grabbed Ino's hand.
Ino stunned and due to Temari's sudden movement, Ino put her other hand on Temari's left shoulder.
''Sorry, sorry!'' Ino chuckled. ''I know you don't want me that close!''
''Oh no!'' Hinata got up. ''I completely forgot about today!''
''What is it, Hinata?''
''I don't know how to dance!''
''I don't know either,'' Sakura shrugged.
Ino let go of Temari, as they really looked like the were about to start dancing.
''The wedding!'' Sakura screamed.
Hinata nodded sadly.
''Mikoto-san already hired a band as she didn't get the chance to dance during her wedding,'' Hinata explained.
''It sounds like she is getting married and not her son,'' Ino chuckled.
''It could be much worse, Ino-chan!'' Hinata continued. ''At least we won't have to dance all alone!''
''Thank goodness!'' Temari sighed. ''It's a whole new way of torturing the newly weds!''
''It sounds nice to me,'' Sakura shrugged.
''Didn't you say you can't dance, either?'' Temari asked.
''I don't, but Ino will teach me!'' Sakura grinned.
''And how do you know how to dance?'' Temari turned to Ino.
''Shikamaru thought me,'' she said plainly. ''The easiest way to learn it is through Shadow Imitation Technique.''
''And why did you need to show off with your dancing skills?'' Temari sounded a bit touchy after mentioning Shikamaru.
''For a mission, of course. How do you think seducing goes when you have to act lady-like?'' Ino chuckled. ''At least you don't have to do belly dance!''
''Isn't that for women eyes only?'' Temari asked.
''So? It's harder because you really have to know what you're doing,'' Ino explained. ''In a classic dancing, the man is the one leading. And you are just following and smiling!''
Temari rolled her eyes.
''We will set an appointment to practice when Sakura gets back. And we are doing it outside!''
''Or you can ask Shikamaru,'' Sakura suggested.
''No!'' Ino and Temari said in unison.
''But didn't you say-,'' Hinata began, but Temari interrupted.
''Let's not involve more people than necessary,'' she said strictly. ''We don't need an entire Konoha to know why we are meeting too often or what we are doing together.''
''Definitely not!'' Hinata shook her head.
''Don't worry, Hinata,'' Temari smiled at her. ''Even if someone suspects, we all know to remain perfectly calm while denying it.''
Although Hinata knew that, it felt good to hear it coming from Temari. Thanks to her effort, Hinata was waiting for the right moment to do everything she's been postponing for the last six months. Well, the right moment and maybe some more of Sakura's charm, Ino's explicitness and Temari's determination.