A/N: This is meant to be a prequel to "Vanity" (the previous chapter).
Disclaimer: I do not own Naruto.
As Neji Hyuga's childhood best friend, Lee is able to not only easily read the man's famously guarded expressions, but also accurately predict his mood. He is surprised, therefore, to find Neji smiling, smiling, upon his return from his first meeting with his future wife. The Hyuga had been grumpy all morning as he prepared for the event, and Lee had expected him to be even angrier after he met whatever woman had the misfortune of being his bride. But now he watches with wide eyes as Neji exchanges pleasantries with his guards and even more shocking, kindly addresses the elders of the Hyuga council that have gathered to receive him.
Lee quickly schools his features into a more neutral expression as Neji meets his gaze. "Lee," Neji greets as he approaches, and Lee pauses in wrapping the bandages around his arm to offer him a grin.
"How was the meeting?" he asks, careful to not appear too eager. Neji shrugs, but the lack of tension in his shoulders tells Lee that he is very pleased.
"Shall I set up the grounds for a spar?" They hadn't been able to spar in the morning because of the meeting, and Lee is beginning to feel antsy.
"Later, Lee," Neji replies distractedly, "I think I'm going to meditate for a bit." The Hyuga has already ascended the stairs to his quarters before Lee has time to reply. He blinks slowly as he digests the fact that The Neji Hyuga has actually turned down an invitation to spar.
But after a moment, his features split into a grin. Neji is not only pleased, Lee realizes, as a spark of smug giddiness zings down his spine, Neji is in love.
This Tenten woman, Lee muses as a laugh bubbles in his throat, must not be of this earth if she is able to so easily earn Neji's favor.
Thank you for reading and please review!
~M.I.