If you've already read all 25 chapters and are getting notified that there is an update, I went through and edited the whole story. Some extra fluff/moments have been added to some chapters!
Would you look at that I finished it! I'm sad to say that this is the last chapter but writing these two falling in love without realizing it has been so much fun. I've had a few messages about how this'll be tied into More Than One Life, so that story starts in early December directly after The Last and I'm saying that this chapter is towards the end of November.
I tried to make this chapter longer but really couldn't. I wrote this because I hated there not being anything canon on how we got from the war ending to Naruto and Hinata being married. So here is my last little fluffy piece. (This is also my shameless plug for you to read MTOL if you haven't, it's still ongoing and I'll be working on it fully now that this is done)
"As many of you know I am not one for speeches." Naruto laughed at his sensei who stood at the podium at the head of the festival.
"While it has been two years since we all experienced the loss and heartache that comes with war, this is also a time for celebration. As of last month, the village is officially done with construction." The smile is seen even through Kakashi's mask.
"I'd like to thank each of you for not only coming out for the festival but for the strength and effort it took to rebuild our home. Now please, enjoy the fireworks."
Hinata had walked around the whole festival with her friends, being stopped every few feet for someone to talk to Naruto or thank Sakura for her medical services.
She had stayed near the back, eyes in the words of Kiba 'glued' to Naruto's broad shoulders, avoiding when Naruto tried to get her to talk to villagers claiming that she was one of the real reasons they had one the war. Muttering something about how what she did wasn't that big of a deal, while Naruto poked fun at her for being shy. Telling the villagers that he was just being truthful, that if it hadn't been for Neji's actions and her words he probably would have given up during the war.
Their group had found a spot to stand as the sky was painted with a rainbow of colors. Sakura had been to her right one moment and the next she was gone, replaced by Naruto.
"Hi." He started over the sound of the fireworks. "It's been a great night."
"It has." She feels his arm press harder into her, glancing over to see Sakura now wedging herself between Naruto and Shino.
"Sorry." He mummers, lifting his arm and wrapping it around her shoulder.
"No, this is fine." Hinata stares up at the sky.
The debate that had been raging internally finally decided. Hinata thought of the almost finished red scarf that sat on the foot of her bed. Even though they were having a celebratory festival now, the Rinne Festival season would be starting soon. She had been arguing with herself about giving it to him, about telling him the true meaning behind it. But now with his arm around her and fireworks exploding in the sky, she knew that it was finally time. Time to make her feelings known, this time making sure he heard her and more importantly gave her an answer.