The morning air stood around her, freezing her skin. The middle of winter, her birthday, and she is alone again. Every morning in winter feels like this one. So, even though she is aware of the special occasion, it doesn't feel any different.
Ever since Hinata was little, her birthday was of no importance, and eventually Hinata desensitized herself to the wonders of a party. She figured if no one is really willing to go to such lengths to make her happy on this day, then why ask for such festivities?
However, when Hinata was six or seven, she can't quite remember now, someone made her realize her importance. Somebody cared, somebody wanted her.
Stepping out, barefoot and covered in her sleeping attire, Hinata made her way on the cold, damp grass to a small glade owned by the Nara. Due to the fact that arranged marriages do happen, and that after the war Hinata and Shikamaru were tired of fighting, they slunk into a comfort. Sure, both had eventually fallen in love, but heirs do not escape what they are mean to do - unless, you are Uchiha Sasuke.
Planting herself amongst the various shades if green, Hinata welcomed the slight frost creeping on her skin. It was a home she is quite fond of, since the fighting style she uses leaves a burning sensation.
Hinata figures Shikamaru will not be waking soon, and pats her swollen belly with care. The boys will be born sometime soon and she and Shikamaru can't wait. They've asked Sai to paint the walls of their baby boys' room with clouds in a lazy breeze.
Soon, a rustling catches her sensitive ears, and with all the strength of a pregnant woman, Hinata stood.
"I don't wish to hurt you," a voice sounded, but Hinata could not pinpoint the source, though most likely behind her. A wave of nausea came over Hinata as she realized the babies needed to be sheltered, and that the man would probably kill her. "I am only passing through," he said, keeping an even tone. At this time, the man must have noticed her swollen stomach because then he said, "Who is the father? I am from here in Konoha, and am quite familiar with the locals."
Hinata, though shocked by his words, answered shakily the name of her husband.
"Hinata-chan?" Itachi choked out. Hinata, working enough nerve to face him, looked at the man and instantly recognized the genius with jet black hair and equally dark eyes. His gaze had remained the same all these years. "Hinata-chan, it has been years," he continued, a faint smile dawning his lips. She would have kissed those lips, but she would be deemed a traitor for such an action. Kissing another man while married, and in an Akatsuki uniform no less.
"You are married correct?" His eyes never wavered, but Hinata saw the young boy who helped her years before.
"Yes, as tradition sees fit," she replied, hating herself for not being strong like Itachi and saving herself for love.
"Ah, so it must be very late for me," Itachi laughed, a good hearted sound. She missed the simpler times when he could be the good guy and she the damsel in distress.