A/N: The pace of this chapter may appear swift, but please bear with me.
Hinata couldn't help but feel a mix of apprehension and curiosity as Ino wrapped her arms around her neck, delivering the invitation to her party. The idea of attending a party wasn't exactly Hinata's cup of tea, but the thought of spending more time with her newfound friends, including Sasuke, intrigued her.
"I'm having a party on Saturday. I want you to join?" Ino asked with enthusiasm, her eyes filled with anticipation.
Hinata turned to face Ino, her expression thoughtful. "I'm not sure, Ino. Who else is going to be there?" She inquired, her voice tinged with a hint of uncertainty.
Ino's excitement radiated as she listed off the names of those who had already confirmed their attendance. "Well, I haven't asked everyone yet, but; Kiba, Tenten, Neji, Sakura, Sasuke, and Naruto will be there for sure!" Ino exclaimed, emphasizing Naruto's presence.
Hinata's heart skipped a beat at the mention of his name, but she quickly composed herself. "I could try to make it, but I'll have to ask Neji if it's alright," Hinata replied, hoping for a way out of attending. The prospect of a party wasn't exactly her idea of a relaxing time. Hinata preferred quieter, more intimate settings.
Ino wasted no time in summoning Neji, her voice echoing through the hallway. Hinata's brother turned towards them, his usual composed demeanor in place. Ino presented her case, assuring Neji that Hinata would behave and that he would be there to keep an eye on her.
"Sure, whatever," Neji responded coolly, his tone indicating his disinterest. He walked away with Tenten and Choji, leaving Hinata feeling a mild annoyance at Ino's persistent matchmaking attempts.
Ino squealed in delight, her excitement contagious. "See, girl? You're all set now. No excuses. I better see you on Saturday, or I'll hate you!" Ino playfully winked at Hinata before dashing off to join another group of friends.
Hinata let out a small sigh, glancing down at the ground. As much as she appreciated Ino's enthusiasm, a part of her longed for a quiet weekend at home, free from the pressures of socializing. Nevertheless, Hinata couldn't deny the growing connection she felt with her friends, including Sasuke. With a mix of anticipation and slight apprehension, she reluctantly accepted the invitation to Ino's party, preparing herself for a weekend that would undoubtedly test her comfort zone.
Ino's gaze fell upon Naruto as she turned the corner of the hallway. She took a deep breath, mustering her courage, and approached him with a sense of determination. She knew that what she was about to say would bring both joy and pain to her own heart.
"Naruto," Ino began, her voice tinged with a mixture of resignation and longing. "Hinata's coming to the party." She watched Naruto's face light up with excitement, his eyes gleaming with anticipation. It was both a bittersweet and painful moment for Ino, knowing that she was about to deliver news that would bring him closer to the person he cherished.
"Ah, man! I can't wait, Ino!" Naruto exclaimed, unable to contain his enthusiasm. He couldn't help but pull her into a tight hug, expressing his gratitude and overflowing emotions. "Thank you! Thank you!" His gratitude poured out, enveloping Ino in his embrace. She rested her head on his shoulder, returning the hug with a mix of conflicting emotions.
Ino had harbored feelings for Naruto ever since she first met him through Hinata. She admired his passion, his unwavering spirit, and the way he brightened up everyone's lives. But she also knew that Naruto and Hinata shared a special connection, something that she couldn't compete with. It pained her deeply, but she made a choice—to step back and support Hinata's happiness.
Sasuke and Hinata sat side by side on his bed, their attention focused on the paper in front of them. The room was filled with a quiet intensity as they brainstormed ideas for their section of the haunted house, which the entire class was collaborating on for the upcoming festival. A thrilling competition was underway, pitting the creative prowess of college students against the spirited enthusiasm of high schoolers in a contest to determine who could craft the most captivating haunted house.
Hinata's fingers gently tapped her pencil against her lip as she pondered the possibilities. Her eyes flickered with curiosity as she turned to Sasuke, her voice soft yet filled with determination. "So, since the whole class is working on the haunted house, what were you thinking for our section?"
Sasuke lifted his gaze from the paper, meeting Hinata's earnest eyes. The dim light cast a shadow across his face, adding to the mysterious aura that always seemed to surround him. He leaned back slightly, contemplating her question before speaking with a calm, yet focused tone.
"I think we should create a room with a psychological twist," Sasuke suggested, his voice trailing off as he thought about it carefully. "Something that plays with people's minds and creates an eerie atmosphere."
Hinata's eyes widened with interest as she leaned in closer, captivated by Sasuke's idea. "Like illusions and mind-bending effects?" She asked enthusiastically.
Sasuke nodded, a small smirk tugging at the corner of his lips. "Exactly. We can use optical illusions, mirrors, and lighting tricks to create a sense of disorientation and uncertainty. It will make people question what is real and what is not."
Hinata's face lit up with excitement as she imagined the possibilities. "That sounds amazing! We can design a room that messes with their perception, making them question their own senses. It will be the most memorable part of the haunted house."
Sasuke's eyes gleamed with satisfaction as he saw Hinata's enthusiasm matching his own. He admired her dedication and creativity, finding himself drawn to her genuine passion for the project. "We'll make sure it's a room they won't forget." Determination etched on his face.
As they continued to discuss and plan their ideas, the room was filled with an electric energy. Their collaboration sparked a newfound synergy, blending their individual strengths into a cohesive vision. Together, they would create an experience that would leave a lasting impression on all who dared to enter their haunted room.
After a while, a pang of hunger rumbled through Hinata's stomach, prompting her to stand up from the bed. Sasuke glanced at her with a look of confusion, but before he could question her, she spoke up.
"I'm going to whip up something to eat. Is there anything specific you'd like?" Her gaze lingered on Sasuke, awaiting his response.
A subtle smirk played on Sasuke's lips as he closed the paper and unfolded his legs. "Tomato soup sounds perfect," he replied in anticipation. He was curious to see if she was able to make what he requested.
Hinata's heart skipped a beat as she absorbed his words, momentarily losing herself in the thought of those enticing lips. She mentally shook herself back to reality, nodding in acknowledgment. "Tomato soup it is," she affirmed, a faint blush coloring her cheeks as she turned to leave the room.
"Dinner's ready, Sasuke!" Hinata's voice echoed through the house as she stood near the bottom of the stairs, holding a spoonful of her delicious tomato soup near her lips, savoring its flavor. The aroma filled the air, making her stomach growl with anticipation.
"Alright. I'll be right down. Thanks," came Sasuke's response from upstairs.
Hinata couldn't help but smile at his words, feeling a sense of satisfaction once she realized that his voice was much softer and laced with signs of gratitude. She was content that he appreciated her efforts.
Hinata made her way around the kitchen, determined to find the cups for their meal. She searched through the cabinets, scanning the shelves for the elusive cups. After a few moments of diligent searching, her eyes landed on them, positioned high on the top shelf. Realizing she couldn't reach them without assistance, a sense of frustration washed over her.
Just as she was about to give up and consider an alternative, a familiar warmth pressed against her back, causing her heart to skip a beat. Hinata turned her head, peering over her shoulder to see Sasuke standing behind her. His presence sent a tingle down her spine, and her cheeks flushed with a delicate shade of pink.
To her surprise and relief, Sasuke reached over her, effortlessly grabbing the cups from the top shelf. He moved back, allowing Hinata some space, and held out the cups for her to take. "Oh, thank you," she whispered shyly.
Their eyes met for a fleeting moment, a silent understanding passing between them. In that instant, it felt as though time stood still, their connection deepening with each subtle gesture. Hinata took the cups from Sasuke's outstretched hand, her fingertips brushing against his, igniting a spark that sent a gentle jolt through her.
"Sorry, I thought I could handle getting them myself," Hinata expressed remorsefully, carefully placing the cups onto the table.
Sasuke settled into his seat and remarked, "You should have let me know you needed help."
Just then, a knock resounded from the door, prompting Hinata to glance at Sasuke. "Did Itachi forget his keys?" She questioned.
Sasuke shook his head, replying, "He's working late tonight." Another knock reverberated through the open space, causing Hinata to murmur softly, preparing to depart. However, Sasuke clasped her wrist, asserting, "I'll take care of it." He left her by the table and proceeded to answer the door. Standing before him was Naruko, Naruto's sister. Her light red hair swirled around her fingers as she casually twirled it, while she chewed gum.
"Can I stay here with you for a while, Suke?" Naruko asked, strolling inside without a care in the world, slipping off her shoes at the door.
Sasuke leaned against the wall by the entrance and questioned, "Why?"
Naruko let out a sigh. "You know how my parents can be when they want their alone time," she shuddered.
Sasuke let out a sigh of his own. "Sure, you can sleep in the guest room," he offered.
Naruko pouted and playfully teased him, leaning against him. "I was hoping to spend the night with you..." She pouted.
Just then, Hinata appeared around the corner. "Sasuke, who's... Naruko?!" Hinata exclaimed with joy.
Naruko stepped back from Sasuke and turned towards Hinata. "Ah, my love!" she exclaimed, rushing up to Hinata and embracing her tightly.
"Sasuke and I were just about to have dinner. Would you like to join us?"
Naruko nodded eagerly. "I love your cooking, Hinata! What's on the menu?" she asked, as she walked into the kitchen with Sasuke and Hinata following her.
"Tomato soup," Sasuke replied. Naruko hummed with delight.
Hinata stood in front of Ino's house, feeling like the weekend had arrived too quickly. She had woken up this afternoon, wanting nothing more than to stay in bed, but her restless nature urged her to get up. After several failed attempts at applying light makeup, she gave up and opted for a natural look. She hesitantly raised her hand to knock on the door, not quite prepared for such an early afternoon party. Letting out a sigh, she knocked on the door, and before long, it swung open, revealing Ino, the party girl herself.
"Hinata! You made it just in time!" Ino exclaimed, grabbing Hinata's arm and pulling her inside. "We're about to play 'spin the bottle'!" She added with excitement. "And we've incorporated drinking into it!" Ino quickly seated Hinata next to Naruto, as she settled down next to Sasuke.
"Hey, Hinata!" Naruto greeted, nudging her shoulder. She smiled back at him shyly.
"Hey, Naruto," she replied softly.
Naruto's warm breath tickled Hinata's ear, sending a shiver down her spine. His proximity stirred a mixture of excitement and nervousness within her, causing a fluttering sensation in the pit of her stomach. She felt her cheeks grow warm as his whispered words reached her ears.
"Hey, uh, can you meet me in the bathroom later? I wanted to ask you something," Naruto's voice was barely above a whisper, yet it carried a certain urgency that caught Hinata's attention. She met his gaze, her eyes reflecting a combination of curiosity and anticipation. With a slight nod, she acknowledged his request, her heart pounding in her chest.
Sasuke, appearing annoyed, spoke up, "Can we just get this party over with?"
"Hinata, could you please spin the bottle since you were late?" Ino requested.
Hinata nodded, leaning over to the bottle placed in the center of the circle. With a gentle flick of her hand, she set it spinning. The bottle came to a stop, pointing directly at Sakura, who was linked to Sasuke's arm.
Sakura stared at Hinata in disbelief. "No way," Sakura replied firmly. "I'm not kissing a girl." She swiftly grabbed a shot from Ino's hand and downed it before taking her turn, giving the bottle a spin.
As the game progressed and the drinks flowed, everyone started to feel the effects of their intoxication. Naruto spun the bottle, and to Hinata's surprise, it landed on her. Blushing, she looked away for a moment, gathering her courage. Then, leaning over, she planted a gentle kiss on Naruto's lips.
"Ah! Yes! Naruto! M-More!" Hinata moaned as her legs wrapped around his waist. Her fingers dug into his back as her panties hung from her left ankle. "I want it, Naruto!" She moaned out.
The bedroom door swung open abruptly, revealing Naruto's mother standing in the doorway. Startled, the couple on the bed quickly scrambled to hide under the sheets, their faces flushing with embarrassment.
"Mom! Can't you learn to knock?" Naruto exclaimed, frustration evident in his voice. He grabbed the nearest clothes and flung them towards his mother, his actions fueled by a mix of irritation and embarrassment.
"S-sorry!" His mom said quickly leaving the room. After a little they heard her yell from the other side of the door. "Naruto! You guys are not studying, If you get an F again you are grounded! Come to the living room after Hinata leaves. We need to talk!"
Naruto started laughing as Hinata and him looked at each other. "Sorry about that." Naruto said, moving a piece of Hinata's hair out of her face.
She shook her head. "I-Its ok."
As Hinata parted from the kiss, she could feel Naruto's fingers lightly brushing against her waist, yearning to draw her nearer. She couldn't help but smile, feeling a delightful warmth within her. Gathering her composure, she leaned over to the bottle and gave it a spin. To her surprise, it landed on Sasuke, the designated drinker for anyone who landed on him, and vice versa. Anticipating a similar reaction, Hinata swiftly grabbed a shot from Ino's hand and extended it towards Sasuke. However, before she could complete the exchange, he firmly grasped her wrist, abruptly pulling her into a passionate kiss, taking her breath away.
Caught off guard by Sasuke's sudden move, Hinata's initial surprise quickly transformed into a mixture of astonishment and desire. The room seemed to fade away as their lips met, their connection growing intense and intoxicating. Time seemed to stand still as they lost themselves in the moment, oblivious to the playful cheers and laughter from some of their friends.
As the kiss deepened, Hinata could feel the raw intensity of Sasuke's emotions coursing through him. It was as if a hidden fire had been ignited between them, burning with a combination of longing, curiosity, and a hint of something more profound. The world around them became a blur, their focus solely on the magnetic pull drawing them closer.
Reluctantly, they broke the kiss, their breaths mingling as they tried to regain their composure. Hinata's cheeks flushed with a deep shade of crimson, her heart pounding with a mixture of excitement and uncertainty. She gazed into Sasuke's dark, enigmatic eyes, searching for answers within their depths.
"Damn, Hinata, getting kissed by two hot guys! Wow!" Ino exclaimed in shock, her words slightly slurred from her drunken state. A hiccup escaped her as she proved to be the most intoxicated among the group.
Hinata's cheeks flushed, breaking the intense eye contact she had with Sasuke. "Um, I... I have to go to the bathroom," she stammered, feeling the need to collect her thoughts. Rising from her seat, she made her way towards the bathroom.
Sasuke's gaze shifted from Hinata to Naruto, noticing the glare directed his way. He let out a weary sigh and reached for another shot, trying to drown out the growing tension. Sakura, in her intoxicated state, attempted to engage Sasuke in a slurred conversation, but his mind was preoccupied. Concern for Hinata tugged at his thoughts as he observed the hallway she had disappeared into.
After some time passed with no sign of Hinata's return, Sasuke couldn't ignore the nagging worry any longer. He rose from his seat, leaving behind the confused Sakura, and walked down the dimly lit hallway leading to the bathroom. Pausing in front of the closed door, he knocked softly, hoping to find some reassurance. Yet, before he knew it, the door swung open, and he found himself being pulled inside, his lips once again meeting another's.
