AN: This chapter isn't as long as my other ones, but I truly hope you enjoy it. Thank you for your continuous support.
Chapter Thirteen
The boarding house was deadly quiet. Night had made its way in, and most of the residents were fast asleep, well except one. Hinata's heart was thumping uncontrollably as Naruto's strong arm wrapped around her waist. This wouldn't be the first time they were in this position, so why did it feel so strange now? The warmth radiating off his body made her feel all mushy and she wanted nothing more than for him to continue to hold her. She didn't want him to leave when early morning came. She just wanted him to stay by her side forever. Her face turned red when she thought of such a thing. What was she even talking about? This was normal for them.
Hinata let out a hushed yelp when she felt Naruto bury his face into her back. She covered her face to hide the embarrassment- as if anyone was watching them.
Everything about him felt so right at this moment. Why? Could it be…?
Suddenly, her ears perked up when she heard a baby crying and someone running down the corridor frantically. "Help me! Help me! My baby! He's sick!" A young mother wept.
Naruto shifted in his sleep when Hinata got up. He still had his grip around her.
"What's the matter?" He asked in a sleepy voice.
"Someone is calling for help," Hinata said, looking down at him.
"Help me please! He's burning up!"
The residents slowly exited the room to look for the source causing the commotion. Both Naruto and Hinata peeped their heads out the door and were met by a hysterical woman pointing to the open door on the far right.
"I need a doctor. He's burning up."
Some of the residents looked at the woman strangely before they went back into their rooms. There was no doctor on site, and besides, it was the dead of night with mist covering the surrounding area. If one were to attempt to walk through it, then the person might never return.
Sasuke grumbled something inaudible, then his eyes darted to the unruly blonde hair that was three doors down. A slight smirk made its way onto his lips. So, that's where the blonde man had been sneaking off to as if he didn't already know that. Konohamaru on the other hand was shocked to see Naruto and Hinata together, but the crying woman quickly disturb his thoughts.
Hinata slowly made her way to the young mother and placed her hand on her shoulder. "I'm not a doctor, but maybe I can help. Please take me to your baby." She said in a soothing tone that calmed the young mother down, slightly.
Upon seeing the maid was going to help, Kin signaled her maid to go back to bed. Nodding, Sarah turned on her heels and walked back downstairs.
Naruto followed the two women to the bedroom on the far end of the house. The crying was becoming almost unbearable and that made Hinata's heart quiver. He was probably in so much discomfort.
Upon entering the room, three small children looked at the unknown strangers. The young woman rushed to the bed, gently took her baby off it, and walked over to Hinata.
"I noticed this morning he wasn't eating, but he can be such a fussy baby." She sobbed. "A-and now he has a fever, and I don't know what to do!"
"Any coughing?" Naruto asked, eyeing the woman.
She shook her head. "N… no."
Hinata took the baby from her and placed her hand on the baby's forehead, then she nodded. He indeed had a fever.
"It isn't anything serious." She said to the woman. "By the way Miss, may I have your name?"
"It's Tasume!"
"Your other children need you Tasume. Go and tend to them and we'll take care of your little one." Hinata said, giving her a reassuring smile.
Tasume nodded as he made her way to her three other children. They ran into her arms, and she held them close to her.
"Naruto, can you please bring me some lukewarm water?" She asked, turning towards the young man.
Seeing how Hinata held the baby in her arms made his heartbeat fast for some odd reason. He didn't know why it happened just now, but….
"Naruto?" Hinata gazed at him worriedly.
"Yes, I'll get some for you." He finally said. "I'll be right back."
Hinata nodded before she made her way to the rocking chair that was pushed to the far corner. She held the baby closer to her chest and began to rock back and forth as she hummed a soft melody.
"What's his name, Tasume?"
"Ren." She sniffled. "Is he going to get better?"
Smiling, Hinata nodded. "It's nothing serious. Ren is teething right now, and that's why he's been so fussy. When tomorrow comes, you should take him to a doctor for a follow-up."
The young girl wiped her eyes before she nodded. "I've never taken care of my children," Tasume spoke. "I've always had maids to tend to them, but now that my husband has left me, I have no idea what I'm doing." She sobbed.
"I'm sorry to hear that," Hinata whispered, glancing over at the mother. "I can tell it's been quite hard on you."
"I didn't even want to marry him, but papa had already arranged this marriage for me. He's taken everything I've owned, and now Papa doesn't even want me back. How am I going to take care of three children and a baby?" Tasume asked, gazing at Hinata.
Hinata couldn't answer that question. She could find a job, but how much would they pay a woman? Was it the same as Konoha?
"Here's some water, Hinata," Naruto said.
She glanced at him then smiled. "Thank you. Do you mind dipping a rag in it and handing it to me?"
Nodding, Naruto dipped the rag into the water and would occasionally glance at Hinata as she cuddled the baby in her arms. Just seeing her in that position made him feel warm inside. Suddenly, a thought popped into his mind. What if it was their child? He eyed her once more before he handed her the damp rag.
When she looked up at him, time froze, and the image of a blonde hair baby came to mind. He was speechless and shocked that he would think of such a thing. Why would he imagine having a child with Hinata? Of course, he spoke about fourteen children but—
His face turned red, and he felt very confused.
"Naruto, I'll stay in here for the night or until Ren's fever has broken. I hope you don't mind." Hinata's voice broke him out of his train of thoughts.
"Huh?"
"I'll be in here for the night until his fever has broken." She responded.
"Oh," He was a little disappointed.
Noticing the sad look on his face, Hinata grabbed his hand and squeezed it. "Morning will be here soon, and then we'll be to our new destination."
Her soft hand made him shiver, so he quickly removed his hand from hers and stepped back. "Yes. I'll be out here if you need me."
When he pulled his hand away, Hinata felt a piece of her heart chip. "Thank you." She mumbled.
Naruto pressed his hand against the closed door, and he let out a soft sigh before he sat down in the accent chair which was placed in the corner of the hallway. His mind would not allow him to forget about what he imagined a few seconds ago. No matter how many times he shook his head, he could not forget the image of Hinata holding his child. That feeling somehow made his heart quiver and the tip of his ears turn red. How indecent is what he thought. How could he imagine such a thing?
He folded his arms and tapped his foot on the wooden floor, impatiently. The very image would consume his mind for the remainder of the night.
.
.
.
The sun's rays seeped through the window and onto the floor of the hall. Some residents stared at the young man oddly as he was fast asleep in a sitting position. How strange? Was there not enough rooms? Kin watched him from the distance, and she was fixated on the man, which Sarah noticed.
"Lady Kin," Sarah spoke up. "Are you interested in the young lad? He is rather good-looking."
Upon hearing that, Kin's face turned unbelievably red, and she swirled to Sarah. "Sarah, I am not!" She cried. "I was just observing."
Sarah hummed in amusement as this was the first time she'd seen her lady get flustered. "The baby stopped crying, so I suppose that woman was able to ease the child's pain."
"I supposed she did." Kin said. "Sarah, do you find it odd for a man to sit outside the entire night to wait on somebody?"
"Well, it depends on the context. Is he waiting for a lady or a man?"
"A lady." Kin said, making her way downstairs.
It took a moment for Sarah to answer. "Maybe this lady is close to him, and he cares deeply about her safety."
Nodding her head, a small smile warmed her lips. "I've found the inspiration for my story, Sarah," Kin said, glancing over her shoulder.
That warmed Sarah's heart to see the look in Kin's eyes. Without a word, she only nodded and the two made their way toward the dining area.
When Sasuke and Konohamaru left the room, they were surprised to see Naruto in the far corner of the room. Shaking his head, Sasuke approached him and then kicked his foot. "Oi, dobe."
Naruto shot up which made Sasuke slightly stumble. "Did Hinata come out?" He asked, wiping his mouth.
"He waited for Hinata this entire time." Konohamaru thought. He walked beside Sasuke and stared at his disheveled master. His hair was all over the place, and his shirt was wrinkled from the stomach down.
"I believe she's still in the room." Sasuke pointed out. "Why don't you freshen up? We have a long journey ahead of us."
"I'll wait for Hinata," Naruto said, rubbing his eyes.
"Konohamaru can wait for her. You go and freshen up." Sasuke said, ushering him away.
Konohamaru watched as Sasuke pulled Naruto towards the room, and he couldn't help but wonder if he would ever find a best friend like Sasuke. They seemed very close.
The door on his right opened, and Hinata left the room as quietly as she could. Ren was feeling much better, and Tasume was somewhat stable although still a little shaken up.
"Hinata, is the baby feeling better?"
"Ah, Konohamaru," Hinata smiled brightly. "He was just teething, but he should be fine now that we know it's nothing serious."
"Well, I'm glad to hear that. That crying woke everyone from their nap last night." Konohamaru muttered as he placed his arms behind his head.
"Did Naruto go in last night?" Hinata asked.
An image of Naruto sticking his head out of Hinata's room popped into Konohamaru's mind. How could he forget that? They were clearly sleeping in the same room together. How strange…
"Konohamaru?"
"Oh! Um, no he did not. He was sleeping on the chair the entire time you were in the room." He admitted. "Naruto is very protective of you, Hinata." He said in a mellow tone. "Sasuke had to force him to leave not too long ago to freshen up and prepare for today's departure."
She looked down at the floor while her hand was placed on her heart. If Konohamaru was able to see her face, then he would be able to tell how red she was. "I'm also going to freshen up and pack my belongings. I shall join everyone downstairs once I am done."
"Yes ma'am!" Konohamaru responded. "I'll be downstairs."
Hinata watched as he ran down the stairs in a quick hurry. She couldn't help but smile at Konohamaru. He was so youthful, young, and inspiring, and she wanted nothing but the best for him. School is where he should be. Not working day in and out. That was no place for a young boy.
Shaking her head, she entered the bedroom and sat on the edge of the bed. She was in deep thought. Last night, while taking care of the young child, her mind would not stop thinking about Naruto. In fact, every time she thought of him her heart would race, and she could feel her face heat up. That wasn't normal. There was a lot of time to think, and deep down she already knew but she tried so desperately to rid of these feelings! If Naruto had not given her that answer during their night on the island, then just maybe it would have been easier to let go. ("Love is love, regardless of who it is. Whether it be a maid, master, or a person without a home, love is love. There's nothing disgusting about that.")
Denying it was no use.
When Naruto let go of her hand, a piece of her went away. She couldn't fathom leaving the young man's side. The mere thought of him abandoning her made her heart scream. Was she being selfish? A maid should not be attracted to her master, but here she was. Yes. Hinata Hyuga, a lowly maid, had feelings for her young master.
She always knew this. But how! She had served many masters, and not once had she developed any feelings for them? Naruto wasn't the nicest when she started, but eventually, he became nice, protective, good, caring… There it was again. Her heart was beating fast just because she thought about him!
"I love him," She spoke in a soft tone.
It was her first time ever loving a man, and she thought it would bring happiness as it did in the books but admitting it did not bring any joy. There was no happiness in saying it aloud. Naruto was a gifted man who needed a woman who could match him perfectly. What could a lowly uneducated maid do for him?
"Hinata, I may be a lot of things, but I am a man who stays true to his words. If I were to find my true love right now, I shall look the other way. We made a promise and I intend to keep it. I won't ever get married until you do, and if you don't then I won't."
"Oh sir, I have no intention of keeping you away from your true love," a faint smile made its way to her lips. "Until then, I will remain by your side." She announced. "When you find her, then I will leave."
Smiling, she pushed herself off the bed to freshen up and pack her clothes. As she did so, a thought did run past her. "How long are you going to be able to hide these feelings?"
.
.
.
Life felt so free for Hinata and Konohamaru. Everything was different from Konoha, and even the people were friendly toward them. Not even a minute into their walk to the post office, they met several friendly people who were also traveling.
While Sasuke was checking to see if there was any mail from Kiba, Naruto was posted by the front door as he watched Konohamaru and Hinata mingle with the other travelers. The way she smiled brought a warmness to him that he had to look away. Why was he feeling this way? Why did he imagine that scenario? That was such an indecent thought.
Sasuke took out a pocketknife and carefully tore open the envelope. It seems Kiba's letter had finally reached.
Sasuke,
I hope this letter finds you well.
I'm glad to hear your travels are going safely. How is Naruto doing? Hinata, Konohamaru? There are a lot of things happening in Konoha. A little after you left, we experienced an earthquake. No major damages were done, and there have been no reported injuries.
Kakashi-sensei checked Naruto's manor and it is still intact and not a hair out of place, although he did mention his aunt inquiring about his whereabouts. Even Ino and Sakura are shocked you two left without a word. Was it necessary not to tell them of your whereabouts? Surely, Naruto could have told her about it. You know how Sakura can get. I've heard from Ino that she has been crying nonstop as she believes Naruto hates her. Poor girl. He can be such an ass at times.
Well, not even two days have passed and there are rumors afloat about Naruto eloping with Hinata and leaving Konoha. It's the talk of the town. I've tried to dispel the rumors, but you know how the townspeople can be. It'll soon blow over once you come back.
Please stay safe on your journey.
-Kiba Inuzuka
"How strange. We haven't experienced an earthquake for some time. The world is surely coming to an end." Sasuke mumbled.
The fox wrapped its tail around Naruto and nuzzle his small head against his neck. Naruto sighed much to his dislike, but nonetheless, he patted the fox to let him know he was fine. Konohamaru noticed the distance between Naruto, and even Hinata seemed to be that way. They didn't even talk much at the dinner table, and only made small mentions of the baby's health.
Sasuke stepped out of the office and handed Naruto the letter.
He glanced over the letter, and he sighed. Of course, he knew they would spread some rumors about him, but to elope with Hinata? Didn't they have anything else better to do?
"It's been a while since we've had an earthquake," Naruto said. "I'm glad nobody was hurt."
"Hm, strange but do you also see what's in that letter?" Sasuke asked, eyeing him.
Glancing over the letter once more, Naruto stared at Sasuke suspiciously. "Suna?"
They had code words to look out for when they corresponded with one another. In this case, blow over meant to take a journey to Suna. Even the words Kakashi and hair meant to find out.
"Let's pray they both croak before they do something unnecessary," Sasuke responded.
"Is his son still in hiding?"
"It seems so. If he values his life, then it's best to stay in the shadow until it's time to strike."
Naruto nodded in agreement. "I thought you told Kiba not to speak about such matters, but if he told us this then it is for a reason."
"I agree. Let's go." Sasuke said, walking away.
Naruto glanced at him then at the letter. How sad.
The sun wasn't as hot as this morning which made their walk to the stables enjoyable. Sasuke had suggested they rent two horses to travel to the borders of Kirigakure to sightsee. Naruto was amazed Sasuke had come up with such an idea. They didn't need to sightsee, but that would make Hinata and Konohamaru's trip pleasurable.
"Sasuke," Naruto mumbled.
"What is it?" Sasuke asked as he looked over his shoulder. He was surprised to see Naruto sulking. In fact, the man didn't look like his usual self when they were eating breakfast. The food was left partially untouched, and not even Hinata's presence seemed to snap him out of his daze. "Are you feeling ill? Was the food not to your liking?" Sasuke knew it couldn't be about the letter he had received.
"I couldn't sleep properly last night." He replied.
"Did that crying baby keep you up? I know you went with Hinata to check on the child and you slept in that chair..." Naruto shook his head, and that made Sasuke raise his eyebrow. Now he was truly concerned. "Should we go back to Konoha? It'll take only a few days, but if you are unwell then it'll be best not to continue this journey." The man's silence was only making Sasuke worry, although his face did not show it. He stopped in his tracks, and Naruto collided with him as his head was lowered.
Both Konohamaru and Hinata stopped when they saw the two men stop abruptly. "I need to speak to Naruto, in private," Sasuke said, glancing at the two. "It'll only be a few minutes."
Nodding, they walked over to a nearby tree to hide from the sun's rays.
"Naruto?" Sasuke called out. When he didn't get a response, he pulled the man's cheeks until he got a response.
Naruto cried. "Teme!"
"Dobe! I've been asking you what was wrong this entire time!" Sasuke shouted.
Naruto's eyes darted to Hinata, then back at Sasuke. "I've thought of something indecent." He admitted.
"Indecent?" He cocked his head to the side. "What are you talking about?"
"I've thought about Hinata bearing my child, and that thought would not go away," Naruto said, taking in a deep breath.
Sasuke was surprised to hear such a confession. Did it mean Naruto understood his feelings for the Hyuga girl?
"Why do you think it's indecent?"
"Maybe I've worded it wrong, but I felt very wrong thinking such a thing." Naruto sighed softly. "I've spoken about us having fourteen children—"
"Us?"
"Yeah, Hinata and I," Naruto said as if it was nothing out of the ordinary.
Sasuke almost fainted, but he remained composed. "You've had discussions with Hinata about having fourteen children?"
"Yeah, but I've never envisioned her holding my child."
Dumbfounded, shocked, and angry were many things to describe Sasuke at this moment. How could he be so oblivious to his feelings? What man prances around a lady discussing fourteen children! Sasuke knew he should not feel this way because it was Naruto, but has he ever been such a way with a female? He almost pitied the boy because he didn't have a mother or father to speak on these things.
"Ah, just forget it," Naruto said. "It just got me thinking is all, but I'm fine."
"I don't believe it is an indecent thought, Naruto. You've been around Hinata for quite some time, so maybe you've come to adore her company." Sasuke said slowly as he tried to find the right words to say. "You enjoy being in her presence and maybe she's somebody you would like to spend your life with." He was bewildered when Naruto smiled and nodded.
"Yes. Hmmm." Naruto hummed. "You're probably right. Speaking of fourteen children would do that to you." He laughed.
Sasuke stared at the back of Naruto's head and wondered. Was Naruto slowly becoming aware of his feelings?
"Naruto?"
"Yes?"
"Mother has sent me a letter asking that I ship her back some fancy silks. I must have forgotten." Sasuke said, rolling up his sleeves.
"Would you like to search for some now?" Naruto inquired. "Do you know what she's looking for? Maybe Hinata can help."
"I know what mother wants, but I'm afraid it is a town over, a few hours away I should mention."
"Well, that shouldn't hold up our trip. Let's go," Naruto said, getting ready to walk as if he knew where it was.
"That would be unnecessary. I was going to ask you if it's okay if I borrow Konohamaru for two days."
"I did give him the days off, Sasuke. It should—"
"I'll pay him to come with me. I'm sure he won't object," Sasuke said, raising his eyebrow slightly. "Besides, I would like to clear my mind, and he did mention how he would like to buy you and Hinata a surprise for your continuous support."
"Wouldn't it be best to go as a group? What if something happens?" Naruto voiced his concerns.
"Nothing shall happen," He reassured. "We can meet at Don's Ferry around 3 PM, Wednesday."
Naruto looked over Sasuke, then at Konohamaru. "You're not going to talk of war to him, right? I would like for him to enjoy his travels before that is mentioned."
"No."
Naruto ran his fingers through his hair. "Hinata hates being away from Konohamaru for such a long time."
"I understand that, but he won't be around all the time. She needs to get used to him not being cuddled up underneath her,"
Sighing, he nodded. "Fine. 3 PM, two days from now." Sasuke nodded. "Konohamaru!"
The brown hair boy didn't waste any minute as he was already at Naruto's side. "Yes, sir?"
Konohamaru closed his eyes as Naruto ruffled his hair. "What did I tell you about calling me, sir?" He let out another sigh. "I know I said I was relieving you of your duties during this trip, but Sasuke would like your assistance… paid assistance," He added. "You're free to tell him no if you want."
A chill ran down his spine when he caught Sasuke glaring at him. He nodded anxiously. "Y-yes!"
"Hinata," Naruto spoke in a soft tone.
Hearing her name, she slowly made her way toward them but still had her distance from Naruto. "Y-yes?"
"Sasuke needs Konohamaru's assistance, so we'll be departing from them. By 3 PM Wednesday, we'll meet by the ferry to continue our journey."
Hinata's face turned red as she realized it would be just her and Naruto… alone. Before Konohamaru came, it was the two of them but that was with the old him.
"S-stay safe, Konohamaru and be on your best behavior." She said, slightly bowing. "Safe travels, Sasuke."
"Likewise," He turned on his heels and walked in the opposite direction.
Konohamaru bowed. "I will, and please stay safe Hinata."
The fox poked his head from Naruto's shirt and raised his paw as if telling Konohamaru "Bye."
Turning back around, Sasuke grabbed the fox by his neck and placed him on Konohamaru's head. "I'm taking him with me too."
The fox squirmed on Konohamaru's head as he tried to get back to Naruto, but the look Sasuke gave him made him stop.
Hinata looked worriedly at Naruto then Sasuke. "Will he be, okay?"
"He should. Sasuke wouldn't let anything happen to him, or Konohamaru. You have no need to fret."
The two stood in silence as they watched the two men until they were far along until they became a blur.
Little white clouds drifted in the blue sky, and the wind was humid yet gentle against them. They had walked a little distance until they reached a seclusive area of the Land Hidden in the mist. The houses were spread apart, and there was a lot of green land about. Different flowers decorated some fields and there was a stream that curved until there was a big lake not too far.
Hinata ran towards a field of yellow waves. "Sir, look! Himawari!" She exclaimed. Excited, she gently touched the soft yellow petals, then turned around to look at Naruto who approached her.
"Are sunflowers your favorite flowers, Hinata?" He stooped down and stared at the flower she was carefully looking at.
"They are!"
Naruto nodded. "I'll remember that." He grinned. Her face turned red when she saw his famous grin. "Should we plant these in our garden so when summer comes again, they'll bloom?"
Hinata's eyes sparkled when she imagined a garden full of sunflowers. "I would love that more than anything."
"Then it's a deal. We'll have our very own Himawari." The corner of his lips tugged up when he saw Hinata's eyes glistened.
"Do you have a favorite flower, Naruto?"
There was a moment of silence, then he shook his head. "No, but if sunflowers are your favorite flowers, then they're mine too."
Hinata felt so weak in the legs when he spoke. Why was he constantly torturing her?
"Are your legs tired Hinata? Can you continue by foot, or would you like to catch a buggy?"
"I enjoy the walk," She whispered. "There are so many things you notice when you're right in front of it." She said, touching the petals of the sunflowers.
"Hinata, may I ask you a question?"
She slowly stood up and the two youngsters faced one another. Their eyes did not break apart when they stared deeply into it. She nodded.
"Is it strange I speak about having fourteen children with you? Is that not normal?"
Her face could resemble that of a tomato. Why did he look so serious about asking that question? Then suddenly she realized, he was serious.
"Well, it isn't something two unmarried people speak about. Usually, when they're courting or together, they speak of such things." Her voice got softer when explaining to Naruto.
"Do you find me indecent when I say such a thing?" Although Sasuke explained it to him, he still felt a little down for thinking about it. It wasn't because it was with Hinata, but how would she react? Wouldn't she find that disgusting?
Unknowingly, he lowered his head when he asked that question which she noticed. "N-Naruto," She touched his arm which made him look down at her. "I do not find it indecent when you speak of such things to me. I find it amusing and it leaves me flustered," She admitted. "But you may want to be careful when you find your true love. She wouldn't take it kindly."
A frown settled on his face. "Hinata, this is your second time mentioning my true love, and I'll say it again. I shall look the other way. I mean it!"
"You say that now, sir but you may just change your mind when you meet her."
Naruto held her hands into his. "Hinata, I swear on my life that I will not change my mind. I know no other woman but you."
Did he understand what he was saying?
"Naruto, you should choose your words carefully." She whispered. She was sure he could feel how sweaty her hands were becoming.
"Father has warned me about my mouth countless times, but I don't think I'm saying anything harmful. Am I?"
Truthfully, she wanted him to continue saying those sweet words to her. Would it be wrong to say it was not harmful? Could she enjoy their bond before that time came?
Looking at him in his blue eyes, she smiled. "No, Naruto."
Seeing her smile made his heart skip a beat. The way her lips curled up when she smiled was so… warm. He hadn't realized it before, but she had nice pink plump lips.
"Naruto," She tilted her head to the side. "Are—"
"I'm fine," He answered.
Their hands were still connected, and neither wanted to let go. "Shall we continue our journey?" Hinata spoke up.
"Y-yes!" He stuttered. "I believe there's a town not too far from here. We can rest there and continue our journey tomorrow." Naruto said, slowly letting go of her hand.
When he did so, for some reason she did not feel her heart chip like before. Oddly enough, it almost felt as if their connection was only getting strong.
"Do you think we'll be able to bring something back for Yumi and the kids?"
"What do you have in mind?"
When seeing the stoned bridge, Hinata ran on it and then quickly looked down to see the village men sailing slowly on the freshwater. Naruto panted as he had also run to chase Hinata who just took off without so much as a word. She didn't know why she left in a hurry, but she was too eager to see them.
When one of the older men spotted the cute girl peering down at them, he smiled and waved, "Good day miss!" Seeing her face reminded him of his daughter who would usually come around this time to watch her old man.
"Good day sir!" She waved at him.
Chuckling, he stabbed the long stick into the clear water and used it to push the small brown boat further along.
"Hinata," Naruto groaned. "Please don't run off like that."
"I'm sorry!"
Taking in a deep breath, he placed their bags on the top part of the bridge and gazed at the people drifting on the boats. "Let's see if we can find a place before you look around, okay?"
Bobbing her head, she grabbed her bag and walked side by side with Naruto.
It didn't take long for them to find a nice room and they quickly settled in. Naruto plopped onto the soft bed, while Hinata browsed the spacious room. Once she was done during her mini exploring, she went into the bedroom and saw Naruto resting his head on the comfy pillow.
Those feelings were coming back.
"Are you sleepy? Konohamaru mentioned you spent the entire night sitting on the chair. Why didn't you go to sleep in the bed?"
"Konohamaru should learn to mind his business," Naruto mumbled as he stared at the decorative wall.
"Now, sir." Hinata frowned.
"Naruto," He replied.
Hinata sighed. "Naruto, sleep is important, but the bed you sleep in is just as important." She said, taking a seat on the edge of the bed.
"I didn't want to sleep without you, Hinata." He turned his head and gazed at her.
Maybe she was bold for inquiring, but it just slipped out… "Why do you always leave my side before morning comes then?"
"I would stay, but I don't want anyone to talk about you in such a way," He replied sincerely.
She played with her index finger. "Is that why you also got another room here?"
"Yes…"
"We're not in Konoha, so," She paused, "I don't care for what people have to say."
Naruto turned on his back and stared at the wooden ceiling. "Hinata, you're doing something to me, and I don't know what it is."
"I'm sorry sir! I didn't mean—" She let out a soft squeak when Naruto pulled her into his chest. Her eyes widened as she gripped his shirt. Their hearts were beating in synch.
"Hinata, do you mind if I spend the entire night here? And the day after? Three? Four days?"
Swallowing the lump in her throat, she nodded shakenly. "Yes, Naruto."
"Should we give my room to someone in need? I know how worrisome you can get about my money and others' wellbeing."
She smiled warmly. "That would make me happy if we can do that."
Grinning, Naruto's arms tightened around her. "I know it will."
The night was slowly approaching as the two walked up and down the small community. Surprisingly the locals were warm and friendly towards them and welcomed them with open arms. It seems a lot of outsiders traveled to this small community as there were a lot of people roaming about and being treated kindly by the locals.
Once they found someone who needed a room, they explored until they had visited many food stands. Naruto always believed no one would be able to rival his stomach until Hinata showed him otherwise. They tried many foods like fried fish on a stick, squid legs, Japanese sweet potatoes, and fresh vegetables.
There were a lot of people roaming about and the atmosphere was so lively with the different vendors trying to get people to their stands. Things were so different compared to Konoha.
As they continued to look around at the different areas, they stopped by a boy no older than fourteen. He didn't have a lavish stand like the others, and he was hard to miss due to being tucked into such a small area.
Hinata almost walked past him, until she saw he had some books spread out on a tattered red sheet. The boy's eyes lit up as it was his first customer for the day. Seeing that Hinata had stopped, Naruto also did. He peered down at the somewhat damaged books, then at the boy who slightly trembled when he saw his gaze.
"What are these?" Hinata asked, picking up the book.
"I created those!" He exclaimed. "I-I—"
Hinata's eyes widened, and she showed Naruto what she was looking at. "I've never seen such a thing before," she said shockingly.
Naruto looked over her shoulder as she flipped through the pages. Different panels had drawings on them… almost as if they were depicting a storyline.
The long silver hair teen swallowed the anxious feelings down. He was proud of his work, but those who saw it either threw it down or mocked him.
"What are these strange drawings?"
"They're not Japanese enough!"
The insults continued, but he always believed his work would catch the eyes of someone one day.
"You drew all of these by yourself?" Naruto asked, raising his eyebrow. He picked another book and looked through it. He was amazed at the unique style of art.
"Y-yes," He lowered his head as he waited for the insults to come.
"Ah, this is cute," Hinata said, showing Naruto the page with a fox. "It reminds me of our little guy." She handed Naruto the book, then he looked at the boy.
Shin's eyes widened when he saw Naruto flip through the pages, a little twinkle evident in his eyes. "I've never seen a picture like this. It's not like the ones you're used to seeing."
"It's- hmmm," She placed her finger by her lip as she tried to find the right word.
"Unique." Naruto finished.
"Yes! I've never seen something like this. What is it called?" She asked the silver hair teen.
"Manga." He pronounced.
"Do you think Marco and the kids will like something like this? They're in school so they should know how to read."
"It is catchy," Naruto said in an amusing tone as he read through it.
Shin, the teen boy, chewed down on his bottom lip as he listened in on the two conversate about his drawings.
"How much?"
"Huh?"
"How much for all of them?"
He felt overwhelmed. This was the first time someone had offered to purchase his books.
"Ten yen…" He mumbled.
"Oh my, that's such a low price for your talent," Hinata mumbled.
"I'll give you three hundred yen—"
"That's a lot, sir!" Shin was flustered by the gesture. "My books can't compare to how much you're willing to pay. I'm not even good!"
"Nonsense!" Hinata shouted. "This is good! You're talented. You shouldn't sell yourself so short.
Shin swallowed the lump in his throat. Naruto handed him a sack of yen and grabbed the five books from the tattered sheet. He had never held a sack full of money, but it felt heavy.
"Here," The boy gazed at the piece of paper being passed by Naruto. "Please write to me when you have created more stories."
He couldn't believe it. Shakenly, he took the piece of paper and read the address. Konohagakure. His heartfelt overwhelmed.
"Y-you're from Konoha?"
"We are. Do you know where that is?" Naruto asked.
He nodded slowly. "I- I do."
Thinking nothing of it, Naruto shrugged it off. "What's your name, kid?"
"S-shin!"
"I noticed you didn't sign your names on these. Go ahead and do that for me before we leave."
"Yes, sir!"
After signing the books, Naruto placed them in his sack and nodded. "Always remember to sign your name. No matter how bad you think it is, your name is important."
Hinata gave Naruto the side eyes as those words sounded quite familiar!
.
.
.
The bed squeaked when Hinata sat on the edge of it. Naruto was laying down on his stomach reading a book they found was called a manga. He was captivated by the story being told. The young boy named Shin was talented.
The first story was about an orphaned boy who lost his parents in the war. Being in a cruel world, he contemplated taking away his life until he was met by a little fox. Foxes were a taboo in their land, and the boy didn't want anything to do with it, but the fox being persistent won the boy's affection. Anywhere the boy went, the fox followed. Despite the remarks and mockery for carrying a fox around, the two stayed together. Even after the boy had turned into a teen, and met different people, he remained friends with the fox, never forgetting it was he who kept him company. On that boy's nineteenth birthday, something amazing happened. The fox was a lost prince who stumbled into the human world five hundred years ago! Out of all the humans he'd encountered, no one had treated him as good as the boy did. His family had finally found him after spending years in search of him, so before departing he granted the boy three wishes.
Naruto was so indulged in reading the book that he hadn't realized Hinata had lied next to him.
"Is that manga more important than sleep, Naruto?" She asked teasingly.
Closing the book, he placed it on the side dresser and turned to face Hinata. "Maybe," He smiled.
The room turned deadly quiet while they stared at one another. Although they didn't say a word, their eyes told a whole story. Eventually, Hinata had fallen asleep, but Naruto was still awake. Maybe it was because the lamp was still on or… he couldn't keep his eyes off Hinata's lips.
He had never felt this way or thought such a thing. He wasn't a stranger to easing the pain himself, but this was so much different.
In a blink of an eye, he imagined kissing her.
He had never kissed a woman's lips before, so how did they feel? How did hers feel?
The bed squeaked as he turned away from her. He felt wrong for thinking such a thing. After everything Hinata went through with her other masters, how could he think of doing that to her?
Why did he even think of such a thing anyway?
Kissing someone was only done to those who you loved.
-Review-
AN: I didn't want Hinata to be awkward or ignore Naruto once she found out her feelings for him. I wanted her to still be herself around him with the essence of her newfound feelings. Hopefully, I was able to put a smile on your face after reading this chapter.
Your feedback is always appreciated.