"Good afternoon, Hinata-sama."

He would never admit it out loud, but he's sure the tingle in his chest is one of disappointment as she does not jump with surprise. He even took care to not step on the dry leaves that littered the Academy's patio. While he was not one to tease, a girl Sasuke's age shouldn't be as tense and anxious as this one was. Especially not if she was the daughter of his family's newest ally.

"Good afternoon, Itachi-sama." When she turned around veins were receding and a light smile crossed her face. "Are you looking for Sasuke-kun?"

"It's a surprise," he said with a conspiratorial wink. Hinata glanced around them, only to find no one too close, before leaning in closer and gesturing for him to continue. "I heard your class had final exams today and I suspect all of Sasuke's training and studying will prove fruitful. It's a special occasion, don't you think?"

By then, Hinata seemed more amused than anything. "That's very kind of you, but I think he stayed back to talk with Iruka-sensei. At this rate he will certainly graduate top of the class next year."

"Proud as I am, his workaholic tendencies concern me." Itachi smiled wryly as Hinata scoffed as discreetly as possible. Perhaps the statement made him a hypocrite, but he stood by it. "How about you? I remember that your weapons demonstration project with Sasuke last year was a success."

"I think I did well," Hinata said with a shrug. "Nothing grand like Sasuke, though."

Itachi hummed thoughtfully. After a year of occasional conversation with Hinata and listening to the rumors of a soon-to-be deposed heiress, he knew enough to fill in the blanks. She was paving the way for a second-born to become the head of the Hyūga clan by proving herself incompetent. The stupid, but oh so noble gesture landed herself a permanent place in his heart.

If anything, she needed a respite. "Why don't you join us?"

"I couldn't intrude, he truly enjoys spending what little free time you have together," she said. "Anyway, I must get going, I am to continue my lessons with Soleil-sensei soon."

Itachi's gaze darkened, though he offered her a polite smile. "I understand, perhaps another day."

Fishy, fishy… Itachi vaguely wondered whether Hinata was aware of the implications of her words. While her actions screamed abdication, the actions of her father only served to solidify her station. No one but the line of succession should have any business with a woman like Soleil; the type that thrived in the backstabbing court of the capital of Hi no Kuni. There was something about Hinata that kept Soleil and Hiashi as staunch supporters of hers. Whether she liked it or not.

Hinata nodded before offering a small bow. As she approached the gates of the Academy, she turned back around. "Oh, and Itachi-sama?" He tilted his head. "My Head Maid wanted me to tell you to stop trying to steal her secret cinnamon roll recipe."

He crossed his arms with a raised eyebrow. "I'm being accused of thievery?"

"Don't shoot the messenger, Itachi-sama." Amusement returned to Hinata's gaze and traces of a grin reached her lips. "But if you must know, yes, potential thievery."

"Well, I am shocked and appalled."

"Natsu doesn't appreciate your attempts at recreating her recipe."

Itachi tutted and flicked her bangs. "Everyone is allowed to bake in Konoha, no matter how similar the end products may appear." Hinata raised an eyebrow. "Don't give me that look, you and I know that you appreciate my efforts."

"I do not," she scoffed.

"Then who was it that taste-tested all of the prototype cinnamon rolls, hm?"

A cough. "That was Shisui-san, if I recall."

"And you."


Up next: Konoha politics