Chapter Summary: A party, an evening of light drinking turns into a rare type of intimacy comes in a form of intoxication. Too much unrequited love, too much self-restraint. Heavy fluff. Enjoy!
Author Note: Sorry for the late update. Thanks for staying with me. I'm just stuck in the dialogue writing as always. This chapter had about 9k words, so there's a chance I might miss some mistakes or parts that don't flow smoothly. But I gotta upload no matter what in July.
Chapter 7 Lightheaded in the name of love
The next morning, Neji woke up later than usual, and the reason became apparent. He let out a sneeze. Feeling unusually warm thanks to the persistent rain last night. After taking some medicine for his cold, he started to feel a little better. He strolled over to the wooden counter, he felt like having a warm cup of ginger tea on this calm morning.
The next morning, Sakura lay in bed, her eyes fixed on the ceiling. Her mind couldn't stop replaying the events of last night. The garden was still damp from yesterday's downpour when she stepped outside to take a deep breath of fresh air. She inhaled deeply, allowing the clean, energizing air to fill her lungs. She could almost smell the scent of herbal tea wafting over from the neighboring quarters. As she walked up to it, a strong smell of ammonia, sulfur, and something pungent filled her nostrils.
Sakura stealthily maneuvered her way to his side. When she peered through his kitchen window, her gaze immediately locked onto his hypnotic white eyes. He stood at the kitchen bar as he prepared a cup of ginger tea. Soft, rhythmic breaths escaped his parted lips. His skin warm and lovely. His tousled, unruly long hair cascaded over his shoulders, framing his handsome face. Clad in comfy white tee and snug grey sweatpants.
They stood frozen, their gazes locked for a fleeting moment before the Hyuuga stuttered.
"Good morning," he greeted, his voice dripping with guilt as he mustered a weak smile. How could he have let it come to this? He rarely gets sick.
Her widened eyes narrowed, a spark of determination shining through. That wasn't even something she said. Without hesitation, she stormed into his home, gripping his arm and guiding him towards the couch. With a swift motion, she draped a cozy blanket over his shoulders, wrapping him in a cocoon of coziness and warmth. Before he could say anything, she placed her hands on his face to check his temperature. Concern etched across her features as she frowned and said, "It seems I'll have to brew a new potion just for you today."
Sakura stepped into the kitchen, taking in the immaculate space that held all the necessary ingredients and tools. She found her recipe ingredients in his well-stocked fridge. She reached for the jar of peppermint leaves, lemongrass, and other healing ingredients. Then she carefully picked some hibiscus flowers from the garden. She set the pot on the dancing fire, measured out the exact amounts, and made the concoction, which she was rightfully proud of.
His gaze followed her as she moved through his kitchen, amazed at how effortlessly she navigated the space. As the minutes ticked by, the air began to fill with a pungent and citrusy scent, and the pot began to bubble and simmer.
Sakura took hold of the medicine cup and walked up to Neji. She couldn't help but notice how intense his lavender eyes were.
While reaching out the cup of medicine to him, she kept her gaze fixed on his face. She sat down next to him on the plush couch and gave the command, "Take this drink, it will do you good," in an authoritative medic tone.
"Sakura…this…" His eyes were drawn to the liquid's vivid combination of colors, and as he peered inside, the mixed scent that rose further piqued his senses.
"So, Hyuuga, shall I tantalizingly offer to mouth-feed you?" she said after pausing for a moment.
His eyes widened, and then there was a sly glint dancing within them. "Oh, why on earth did I ever think that was a good idea?" He said it with a slight cough.
Her cheeks turned a delicate shade of pink as she coyly replied, "Oh, come on, just drink it already!" she exclaimed.
Her voice was laced with a mix of frustration and a tinge of something else that he couldn't quite put his finger on.
Her expression was enough to make him submit to her every whim. Its tantalizing warmth coursed through his chest, leaving a lingering bite that sent shivers down his spine. The flavor was pungent and bitter. It could be her revenge for kissing her the night before, which left her vulnerable and violated. A way to show him that his actions would not go unpunished.
To his astonishment, it wasn't just any ordinary concoction. The comforting heat of the concoction spread through his veins, gradually alleviating his discomfort.
Sakura watched him closely as he took the medicine, and when she saw him grimace, she laughed. She did make the medication stronger. He returned the cup to her, but she suddenly seized his wrist with a strong grip. She was ready to confront him about the kiss.
They rarely touched each other unless it was absolutely necessary. Neji felt a rush of pleasure whenever she laid her hands on him, even if it wasn't a gentle touch.
He should be chastised for kissing her like that. She might not want the kiss. Whatever he said or did made things awkward between them. He didn't want their once-flourishing banter to turn into carefully chosen words and guarded glances. He wanted to show her that he wasn't playing with her and was sincere in everything he did. He had to find a way to rebuild what they had lost.
The Hyuuga wrapped his arm around her waist and pulled her closer to his strong frame. He was about to say something to her. She was startled by his sudden proximity. Their bodies were practically touching as her head hung just above his. Too close, and her heart skipped a beat. The tip of his nose brushed against hers, and her whole body tingled with anticipation.
It was when the sliding door of his quarters glided open with a soft whoosh that he tensed up. He was preoccupied with the pinkette to the point of being unaware of his surroundings.
The couple's bodies instinctively separated from each other, and their eyes snapped towards the doorway with a jolt of anticipation. It was like they were caught in the middle of doing something wrong.
Sakura let out a groan, her frustration bubbling up inside her. Is there a way that she and Neji can have a simple conversation without getting stopped?It seemed like fate was against them because every time they tried to have a heartfelt conversation, something unexpected happened and cut them off. It was none other than the youngest heiress of the prestigious clan standing at the doorway.
Her white eyes were fixated on her cousin. The kunoichi with pink hair held his wrist. As his other hand softly touched her waist. A tender and intimate gesture.
"Oh, um, my bad! I didn't mean to interrupt. I'm so sorry!" She blushed; her voice was laced with guilt. Breaking old habits was never easy. Her older brother rarely had visitors in his room. She sensed a mysterious presence in his room, but she never expected it to be a girl. And it appeared that they were in the midst of 'something'.
Neji made a mental note to start locking his door more often, especially since he was expecting guests at his place more frequently. He let out a sigh and muttered, "You really should learn to knock, Hanabi-sama."
"Neji-niisan, I noticed you returning in the rain last night. I was worried about your well-being, so I just wanted to check if you're alright..."
The Hyuuga prodigy had been chosen to mentor her, his mastery of their bloodline abilities surpassing that of her sister. She had always been in awe of him. Her feelings for her cousin underwent a profound transformation when he took on the role of her trainer a few years ago. She admired and adored him as if he were her older sibling. The young girl often pondered if there were any hidden feelings she harbored for him.
His heart skipped a beat as his younger cousin brought up the memories of the previous night. Neji couldn't help but feel a slight warmth creeping up his cheeks, but wondered if it were from embarrassment or from the cold. "Oh, it's alright. And I'm perfectly fine. Is there anything else, Hanabi-sama?"
"I've brought you some light meal. If you'd like to indulge in it now…"
"Hey there, Hanabi-chan! Neji-san unfortunately caught a cold, but don't worry, he has already taken his medicine. Everything's all good now. A light meal is perfect for him. I entrust him to your care," she said politely.
"Hai. Arigatou gozaimasu, Haruno-senpai."
Sakura made her way outside, leaving them alone and giving the man some rest. She would have another chance to confront him again.
The following day went off without a hitch. Sakura's mood was gloomy today, and the reason for her gloominess was immediately apparent. She was looking for the elusive Anbu captain but couldn't find him anywhere in the compound. Hinata told her that the clan council had summoned him away. Sakura wondered if it had something to do with their hot spring encounter.
Tonight, the Hokage couple held a private party at the renowned Konoha private strip club. It was going to be a wild and fun night. They decided to throw a joint party for all of their mutual friends and comrades. It wasn't about a lack of trust between them, rather, it was more a matter of uncertainty regarding what their guest might do.
All the friends, acquaintances, and comrades were invited. Neji will definitely be at the club tonight.
Sakura and her besties were in the bustling shopping district, looking for the perfect party outfits. Ino sensed that her best friend was acting strangely. She looked grumpy and, well, sexually frustrated.
Sakura sighed and recounted her encounter with him the night before. It all happened by chance. She never intended to end up on the wrong side, and he never intended to kiss her in the first place. The Hyuuga heiress was in utter disbelief, her mouth gaping. She couldn't believe the scandalous rumor about her cousin was true!
There was nothing wrong with wanting to heat up your crush! Being attractive and magnetic was natural. Bring out your inner seductress and flaunt it! That's what Ino said, anyway, she had no idea she'd end up here.
She looked at herself in the full-length mirror with trepidation. It was the most seductive outfit she'd ever worn. The fabric complemented her every curve like a glove. She was always looking for a reason not to wear it.
"Umm..." Hinata's cheeks turned a rosy shade.
The blonde approached Sakura, eyeing her up and down. "Oh my goodness, Sakura, you look hot!"
"Ugh, I can't stand the thought of wearing this in public, pig." The pink-haired kunoichi raised an eyebrow. "Tarts and vicars, you say? Who thought of having a party where people dress up?"
"You think it was me? Isn't this theme, like, the most thrilling thing ever for the party tonight? I can imagine the amazing costumes and decorations, like, seriously!" Said Ino.
Sakura glared at her, crossing her arms over her chest.
"You want a slumber party, Sakura? Or a tea party, perhaps?" She laughed, playfully nudging her friend's arm. "Oh, come on! You love parties, especially when they're super crazy and over-the-top!"
"Hai. It's going to be so much fun because Neji-niisan will be there too!" The purple-haired beauty smiled mischievously.
"And what are we supposed to do with him anyway?" she asked, her voice filled with curiosity and a hint of mischief. Sakura wondered how much her friend had changed after all this time.
"To bring you and the Hyuuga closer, my dear," the blonde chimed in with joy, "and, most importantly, to make him unable to look away from you!"
"How much longer will you both continue this silly game of not admitting it, I wonder? Oh my gosh, just spill your heart out and confess your feelings already!" They should have a heart-to-heart conversation about their feelings for each other.
Hinata, the ultimate shipper, nodded in agreement. They were caught in an eternal waltz, spinning further from reality with each turn.
"Confess?!" Her heart skipped a beat.
"As the night went on, the bar grew dimly lit and noisier, making it hard to talk. It would be the perfect setting to get closer to him!"
"Absolutely! And snuggling up nice and close!" Hinata nodded enthusiastically. She was always there, like, constantly spotting couples cuddling in the bar.
"And alcohol, a powerful weapon indeed. You've got to be smart about how you use it to your advantage. As he downed one drink after another, his inhibitions melted away, giving him the courage to make a move!"
"Oh, definitely! Especially my cousin, who's always so reserved and serious!"
"My dear girls, you two have such vivid imaginations. I doubt he'll ever initiate anything. Did anyone else forget that we're talking about the amazing Hyuuga Neji? No way, that can't be him."
"How did we miss that? Then, you shall be the ones to initiate it first. The Hyuuga seriously needs some aggressive treatment."
"But, I mean…"
"No, but, listen, forehead," her voice brimming with frustration, "just muster up the courage and confront him head-on. You must demonstrate your true strength to him! Show him how good you really are! If you don't do something soon, he'll end up with someone else."
"Okay, I-I will think about it."
Sakura stood nervously outside the grand entrance of the private clubhouse with Ino. The blonde beauty was here to make sure she wore the costume they had prepared earlier that afternoon. Her revealing and alluring outfit fit the place perfectly. Her best friend's cardinal bishop bodysuit made her even sexier.
As news of the parties spread throughout the hidden village, shinobi, civilians, and even rogue ninjas gathered at the entrance, hoping for a chance to crash the party. They gawked at the two women and didn't seem to be able to look away. Sakura struggled to find confidence in her revealing outfit. She didn't like their friendship to take a different turn just because she was showing so much skin.
The security officers made way for them to enter the building. As soon as they entered the club, they were met with the sight of seductive people gracefully twirling around poles while dressed in expensive lingerie. The music was blasting, and party guests were jammed together. All eyes were drawn to the center of the room, where a large stage hosted a stripping show featuring a stunning redhead stripper. Many men were stuffing cash into their g-strings.
They scanned the room, searching for their friend. At the very end, there were exclusive VIP lounges, specifically reserved for the esteemed party host of the evening. Sakura spotted numerous familiar faces among her former allies as they gracefully made their way through the crowd and head straight for their friends. Hinata glanced over and greeted the ladies.
The VIP lounge was amazing. The seats were cozy and offered a great view of the dance floor. And conveniently enough, the bar was just a stone's throw away, so there was no need to waste any time waiting. Sakura gladly took a drink and took a plush seat next to the Hokage couple.
Everyone was there, but she couldn't stop thinking about the one person who hadn't shown up yet. As she sipped her wine, a couple of handsome guys approached her, their eyes brimming with adoration.
"No, I'm not dancing with you," Sakura politely declined. "I'm not really interested, to be honest."
"Oh, come on! I can't help but notice the way you're looking at me," Said the man, closing his palm around her lean arm.
There he was, the flashy shinobi from Hidden Cloud Village, his chiseled face framed by a mane of sapphire hair that fell to meet his amber eyes. His charm was so hard to resist that every woman he met fell in love with him. Just as the man was about to speak, a strong and authoritative hand firmly landed on his shoulder.
"Oh, please! Don't flatter yourself." Sakura responded by rolling her eyes, trying not to cause any trouble.
"Excuse me, but do you not recognize who I am?"
"Um, sorry, but I don't think we've met before," she said, pulling her arm away from the man.
"Forgive the interruption, but I must kindly request that you leave the lady alone, if you would be so kind," said a smooth, velvety voice, drawing the attention of curious onlookers.
The unexpected appearance of the esteemed Hyuuga surprised the man. His grip on Sakura loosened, his fingers slipping away from her. Sakura couldn't help but smile as she watched the man storm away in a fit of frustration.
Sakura shifted her attention to Neji, her knight in shining armor. He was dressed in a stunning white clergy vestment with red and gold accents and a lavish gold tassel. He looked just like a mighty bishop. Inside, he wore a tight-fitting v-neck tee that hugged his sculpted physique. His lower half was clad in crisp white dress pants. He had a stylish y-chain necklace around his neck, that made him look even hotter for the occasion. His long, beautiful hair cascaded down his back, flowing all the way to his waist. In the dimly light, he seemed to emit a faint glow. Looking absolutely divine.
"Hi," she said. A small smile formed on her lips as their eyes met.
"I always seem to have a knack for showing up for you at just the right moment," he replied, his smile warm and inviting.
"Oh, trust me," she declared, arms crossed and a mischievous smirk on her face, "I could handle everything just fine, even without your impressive arrival, you know?" She noticed the smug expression that appeared on his face after she gave her response. Looking as handsome as ever. Sakura couldn't help but notice all the women checking him out.
When he felt a light tug on his sleeve, he said, "I'll see you later," and started to walk away with Hanabi linking his arms.
It was obvious that the young heiress had a hand in choosing his outfit. Hanabi walked over and sat down next to her sister. Meanwhile, Neji made his way to the group sitting at the far end of the lounge. He sat down beside Sasuke and his former teammates.
The Hyuuga prodigy sat relaxed, having a casual chat with his old teammate. He sipped his drinks and occasionally talked about mission details with Uchiha. They were now closely associated with Nara. Being the Hokage's right-hand and left-hand men was truly an honor. They bonded naturally over their painful pasts and became inseparable comrades. Lee let out a weary sigh, desperate for a moment of pure relaxation and enjoyment, free from the burden of work-related conversations.
A group of performers effortlessly surrounded the two prodigies. Sasuke was an excellent drawer. He had a full black tapestry clergy vestment with a maroon velvet hood, looking strikingly gorgeous with his jet-black hair. As soon as someone laid a hand on him, his fiancée unleashed a fierce glare that made them flee in terror. Sakura had her attention turned to another prodigy, who never failed to get her attention whenever he showed up at their gathering.
Sakura couldn't help but steal glances at him, and Neji always seemed to catch her every time. She was mingling with grace while holding a glass in front of a lively crowd, and her laughter filled the room. When she raised her head and looked at him again, their eyes met, and he returned her gaze with unwavering intensity.
The guests were having a blast playing drinking games and dancing, keeping everyone thoroughly entertained. And then, as a thrilling game commenced, things took a turn for the wild. The players were to decide whether to do the action written on a randomly chosen card or take three daring shots instead. They played it safe and followed the rules.
Poor Hinata. A gorgeous male stripper teasingly squirted cream on his chest, captivating her attention. He was smoking hot. His chiseled abs matched her husband's. The bride blushed, her face turning tomato red. Hesitant to do it in front of Naruto because she knew he wouldn't like it. As the bride, she had the privilege of choosing a volunteer. All the bridesmaids quickly ushered Sakura out. She had no choice but to fulfill her duty as a maid of honor and carefully lick the cream off his chest.
It was Sakura's turn, and all eyes were on her. Her mission was to lock lips with a stripper for a full minute. After completing a dare for Hinata, she didn't want to risk further embarrassment, so she decided to take three shots instead. As she took a sip, the attractive strippers swayed intimately in her vicinity. When he came too close, her emerald gaze fixed on his lower region. Her cheeks turned a rosy shade as embarrassment washed over her.
Neji smirked at her expression.
Tsunade-sama and Lee fearlessly downed five shots without any hesitation. Like all the others, it was finally Neji's turn. He wasn't going to down three shots, since he wasn't much of a drinker. The beautiful showgirl with flowing locks sensually caressed his chest as she gave him a captivating lap dance. Eventually, she settled herself on his lap.
Sakura watched them from afar. He kept his hand off the girl at all times, but the smugness on his face suggested that he was secretly relishing it. A jealous jolt overcame the pinkette as she drank a glass of wine. He turned his face away when the showgirl came near enough and was about to kiss him. This did not make Sakura feel any better.
The party had been raging for a solid two hours, and everyone was having an absolute blast as the drinks flowed. When Temari-san found out her husband was at the strip club, she made him leave early. Lee twirled and spun on the stage. Chouji hungrily gobbled up the cute bunny girl. Genma sneaked into a private room with an exotic dancer. Kiba stripped but kept his pants on. Two flirting couples couldn't keep their hands off each other.
Sakura sat with her old sensei, clinking glasses and enjoying their company while people watching. Ugh, why did I have to reject those dancing invitations? I'm such a fool. Being single and meeting rich, good-looking gentlemen wasn't all that bad, right? Wine. Sakura drank more wine, feeling the effects of the alcohol start to cloud her mind. Ino asked her to dance, and she happily accepted.
Neji couldn't stop staring at the pink-haired kunoichi on the other side of the room. She joined her bestie on the dance floor, and he couldn't take his eyes off her. Her outfit left little to the imagination. He looked at her with such intensity, his eyes scanning her from head to toe. She wore a sexy black lace cropped corset top with sheer lace and mesh, and an opaque lining at the bust, accentuated her collarbone and slender shoulders. With a skirt in sheer lace that went with it, and opaque undies for coverage, and a pair of silver heels to finish the look. Her heart-shaped bust cup made her ample bosom look even more voluptuous and alluring than ever. Temptingly naughty. Despite the extreme sexiness of her ensemble, she managed to look absolutely beautiful.
The pole dancer glided effortlessly on the shiny pole, moving to the beat of the music. Sakura was asked to join him for a dance. She grabbed his shoulder and wrapped her leg around his, playfully letting go and gracefully spinning around the pole with him. As she swayed her hips and flicked her hair, her movements were undeniably sexy. She looked so calm and confident dancing at the local pub, but with him, she would get all flustered and nervous. He wondered why. His jaw tightened when the guy ran his hand down along the contours of her body, sensually kissing her neck, breathing in her scent. Too much body touchy for Neji's liking.
Sakura gasped as the dancer made that move and she smiled back tightly. If she wasn't using him to make the Hyuuga prodigy jealous, she'd definitely punch him into tomorrow. She attracted a lot of attention, particularly from a white-eyed man. And she was right when their eyes met.
When the female ninja was intoxicated, you couldn't even tell something was wrong at first because she had no difficulty participating in any activity. Alcohol likely reduced half of her awkward discomfort she had with the dancer and boosted her courage. He smirked. Neji could easily see the influence of alcohol coursing through her veins with his white eyes. She had picked up her shishou's drinking habits and usually handled alcohol well. However, this time she got quite drunk but managed to keep herself together. When he realized he was staring too much at the pinkette, he pulled his gaze away.
After about thirty minutes, Sakura gave Ino a gentle tap on the arm to let her know she needed a short break. She then stumbled through the crowd as she exited the dance floor, righting her foot as she went but running into a few people along the way.
In her tipsy state, the world spun around her, but her attention was solely on the Anbu captain. No one could overlook his smooth, flowing locks and his pristine white robe, he sat at the bar, perched on a lone barstool. In the dimly lit bar, she walked up to him.
The air in the room was thick with a heavy mix of sweat and hormones, as well as the lingering odor of alcohol and raucous laughter. Neji had been stuck at the club for hours, growing increasingly disengaged. He knew he had a reputation for being serious and monotonous. As the night went on, it made him the only one in the group who didn't fit in. Most of the guests were mostly inebriated and started acting all wild in public. Their antics did not escape his keen eyes.
Kiba had made out with five different women. Poor Lee ended up losing his shirt. Genma-san, likely still in the private room. Worse, he stumbled on people having sex in the restroom. He didn't mind drinking to get through the party, but he wouldn't drink excessively or act inappropriately in front of everyone. Just as he was about to slip away unnoticed, his Byakugan alerted him to the pink-haired girl approaching jerkily before tapping him on the shoulder.
Sakura came up to the bar, "Hey, mind if I join you, Neji?"
"Not at all. Take a seat, Haruno." Neji turned so he was facing her, while holding a glass of amber.
"Why didn'tcha dance with anyone?" Sakura mumbled as she floated onto the empty barstool next to him and ordered herself a drink.
"Is there a reason why you're curious about this?"
"I th-though Hinata said you rule the dance floor," her voice was slurred.
He smirked, "Hmm, I see your point. I think I've found my place for the night."
"But you've been on the same barstool all night, though."
"Have you ever thought about just embracing the ambiance and going with the flow, Haruno?"
"It kinda seems like you ain't really feelin' the vibe, y'know..."
"Well, I guess people find me intimidating to approach."
"Mmm, really? I th-thought you were friendly 'nough to let a lady plop on your lap," she teased, taking a sip of her whiskey.
"It was a glass of liquid courage that totally pulled me out of my passive mode."
"Yeah, you gotta, like, let loose 'n have some fun."
"So you let loose and have some fun on the pole?" With a charming smirk, he teased.
"Oh, definitely! But I'd much rather dance with you..."she mumbled. Emerald eyes with half-lidded lids focused on his eyes.
"I never knew you were such a flirt," he joked, before adding playfully. "Don't give me that look. I don't strip." Neji had not missed her direct stare.
"What do you thin' of the way I look at you?" She got up and moved closer.
The pinkette was looking at him with obvious lustful intensity. "What's got you feeling so high tonight?" She was clearly making an effort to flirt with him.
Sakura wasn't sure at first if she would be brave enough to do this. But her bestie told her to be smart about how she used alcohol, so she did. She felt drunk enough to try it.
"How I flirt? Y'mean, like this?" She asked, a smug grin curling at her lips. Making her intentions clear as she threw her arms over his shoulder and straddled him with her leg over his thigh. This was the most effective way to pin the man down.
No more annoying meetings to be called away. No more interruptions from anyone.
Neji's white eyes widened as he raised them to meet hers. The pinkette was definitely flirting with him. Neji extended a hand, grasped her by the waist, and held her in place.
"Do you have a secret late-night hobby or something? Is this the way you approach your client?" His stomach had swooped at their close body contact.
"W-Wait, are you sayin' I'm a streetwalker?" The kunoichi pouted and swatted his chest.
Her pout was one of the cutest things he loved about her. Looking closely, the pinkette was wearing significantly more makeup than she usually does. Her green eyes held an otherworldly radiance that hypnotized him. Her soft pink hair fell in soft waves over her shoulder. Her hair was slightly disheveled from the dance, but it still beautifully framed her angelic face.
"I never said that, but if the shoe fits," Neji said with arrogant self-confidence. He was starting to feel comfortable around her, something he had never experienced with anyone else. However, he tried to remain stoic and sensible.
"So you're saying that even though you didn't explicitly say it, it still applies to you?"
The man kept his cool as if nothing could ruffle his unflappable exterior, and the ridiculously charming smirk was on. Once again noticing how handsome he was.
"You're soooo mean, Neji. Did I, like, look good to you?" Sakura snuggled herself into a cozy spot on his lap.
The looks Neji received from those in the VIP area, particularly the women, suggested that they were enjoying popcorn while watching a show. This was a clear set-up to get him together with the pinkette. He also couldn't miss the piercing onyx eyes that were looking right at him. Should he be acting normally?
"Good. You're looking lovely." He lowered his defenses and gently brushed away her soft, pink hair. "However, you aren't dressed warmly enough, Sakura." He unintentionally sounded possessive. He almost said she was dressed too revealingly for his liking. Her body trembled with a chill. Neji hated the thought of sharing the view with anyone.
Emerald eyes grew wider with each word he uttered, his possessiveness toward her evident in his tone. Perhaps he should choose his words more carefully. His white eyes traveled upwards to her plump lips before settling on her beautiful face.
Her skin tingled with excitement as the Hyuuga softly whispered her name. She loved how his possessiveness made her heart race. She stared into his stunning white eyes that seemed to go on forever as she stared into them, wondering what secrets they might hold.
Neji removed his vestment and draped the garment over her shoulders, leaving his white undershirt. Sakura felt a comforting warm and catch a whiff of his intoxicating scent as the cloak settled around her. It was a simple gesture that conveyed his feelings for her. "Thanks," she murmured, placing her hands gently on his shoulders.
Hinata's snowy eyes saw straight through their mutual adoration for one another. She hadn't noticed her cousin's thoughtfulness before and couldn't help but feel so sweet.
Sasuke felt a strange twinge in his gut, like something was off. Sakura was practically glued to his comrade, her fingers tangled in his long, luscious hair. They were so close, so comfortable with each other. In his bitterness, he had never imagined them like that. "Tch," he said, looking away. He trusted that she knew what she was doing, and not to interfere.
The music grew stronger with each passing moment as the clock ticked closer to midnight. The room was dimly lit, casting long shadows across the two figures huddled together. They leaned in close and made an effort to be heard over the blaring music.
"Are you okay?" the Anbu Captain asked, his voice laced with concern. "Would you like me to take you back to your place?" he offered.
"I'm good. Please don't say you're done. The fun is just beginnin'. You know, I can think of much better ways to communicate than shouting over this noise."
All Sakura wanted was to be near him again. She cupped his jaw and stroked his cheekbones with her thumbs. She inched her face closer and pecking his lips gently. His acceptance of her kiss was a great relief to her.
"What was that for?" he asked, his voice barely a whisper. Neji's body tensed, but his heart fluttering as their lips met, relishing the sweet touch. The sexual tension between him and the kunoichi was palpable. It was beyond his control. Perhaps, he shouldn't have let the pinkette straddled him. He generally won't tolerate anyone who has a drinking habit. She was a little drunk and her strong alcohol odor was detectable. He liked to think that she was acting this way because she liked him, and he was relieved that she hadn't chosen someone else randomly.
"Havin' fun," her lips moving towards his earlobe in the process, nipping at it ever so lightly before pulling back, "and to put you off. You're too in control," she said, gripping his shoulders tightly. "I need you to kiss me again, just one more time!"
"That's enough for now, Sakura," he said, his voice trembling with warning. Her beautiful face and the way she snuggled and clung to him made it clear that his warnings meant nothing to her. Sakura continued her assault despite the onlookers, showered him with kisses all over his face, completely unashamed. No one could match her incredible strength. But he couldn't bring himself to use his powerful bloodline to shut her down.
Neji veered his face away to dodge the kisses, unable to reciprocate. She might regret her decision once the effects of alcohol faded away. He had no problem doing what was asked of him, but he would not have done it in front of the many people they knew. The Uchiha's onyx eyes staring made things awkward.
"Sakura-"
Her name was called out by a commanding voice. Sakura snapped out of her daze as a strong hand firmly gripped her arm.
"I think you had enough time with Hyuuga," they said, their possessiveness evident.
"Hey, Sasuke, wh-who do you think you are, decidin' things for me?" She totally shot back, her voice dripping with annoyance, "I'll, like, tell you when I've had enough, hic-" She gazed at him, feeling so bummed out and sorry for him.
The air crackled with tension as emerald locked eyes with onyx, their expressions a blend of denial and resolve.
"I may be your ex, but I care about you," he moved in closer, his voice filled with a mix of desperation and frustration.
"Oh, honey, you're totally out of it if you think you still get a say in who I date or how I live my life. We're over, you know?" She was all slurred up, but her voice was firm and resolute.
"Can't you see, I'm only trying to protect you?"
"Thanks for worryin', I've got Neji by my side. I'm tough as nails. I don't need you to be all super-heroic and stuff anymore. It's about time for you to move on and let me do the same." Her voice turned all soft and she just rested her head on the Hyuuga's shoulder.
"Sorry 'bout Sakura's sudden emotional outburst, Hyuuga," he said to Neji, his grip on her arm tightening. "She tends to be overly indulged."
Neji directed his gaze towards the lively crowd at the party. He didn't have any inclination to get involved in other people's matters, especially not on such a momentous occasion like his heiress's party. Until Uchiha had a conversation with him.
Neji glanced at the Uchiha, his expression giving nothing away. "Well, Uchiha, I personally believe that Sakura has an impressive level of independence and self-reliance to manage her own life without our interference. It would be best to let her do what she wants."
"Alright, that's fantastic," with a bitter smile, Sasuke turned away. In any case, he didn't want to make a scene. "Whether she likes it or not, I will always be concerned about her."
"It's okay, I am confident in my ability to handle her," he reassured.
Sakura was officially off-limits for him.
The sight of the pinkette, intoxicated or not, agitated his mind. Sasuke had hoped for a response that was not this. Her words felt like a cold dismissal. His jealousy burned fiercely in his heart, consuming him with its intensity. If he made the decision to revive his clan, then he ought to prioritize his fiancée. How lucky she is! Avoiding them was going to be the best option.
"The tension between the two is slowly suffocating me," the blonde told Hinata. The agonizing tension between them was simply excruciating! It drove the blonde crazy.
Disbelieving.
Sakura decisively ended her connection with the Uchiha right in front of him. But he wasn't accustomed to this whole affection thing. He was unsure how to respond, unsure if feeling happy was even an option. Perhaps the pinkette just needed him to get through the night, even if that was the case, he was perfectly fine with it. The attention of the onlookers had started to shift elsewhere once Uchiha had left. The kunoichi held him tightly in her arms, almost as if she owned him. She put her face in the crook of his neck to calm down, after her emotional breakdown.
"I have a confession to make," Neji said softly in her ear after finally finding the courage to do so. "I can't help but wonder if I hadn't started that kiss last night, things might have turned out differently. If you misunderstand my intent, I apologize if that was the case."
Sakura sat up, her heart aching. Her voice trembled as she mustered the courage to ask, "D-Do you regret it?" She was dying to know his true feelings about their kiss.
Her pained expression made him react immediately. His response firm and resolute. "No, that's not what I meant. I apologize. I've never regretted it, not even once." The Hyuuga prodigy, overwhelmed by his lack of practice, struggled to maintain control over his escalating desire. And it was no jutsu.
His words were like a drug, making her feel dizzy with excitement.
"It wasn't your fault. It wasss, like, totally me who didn't push you away. Now I wan' you to kiss me again," her words were slightly slurred.
"You're drunk, Sakura," he said casually, dismissing her question. Alcohol had emboldened her to say all this. "You have no idea what you're talking about-" The pinkette shifted her body, unintentionally brushing his crotch. His grip tightened on her waist.
Neji suddenly felt something hard between his thighs, before he could even think about it. He tensed. His fear of losing control was unfolding. Her ample bosom, snugly held in the corset, now pressed intimately against him, only making things difficult. Feeling vulnerable for the first time ever. Her cheeks turned red, not just from the alcohol but from something else. He could tell she was thinking about the same thing. He stayed still. He didn't know if the drumming in the background was the music or his heart pounding.
Sakura could feel his growing excitement grazing against her covered core. She was taken aback by his sudden change in emotions, even if it was only slight. Did Neji see her that way? She couldn't help but feel a surge of arousal. Nervous, yet exciting.
"Oh, really? I know exactly what I'm talking about," she retorted, refusing to let his dismissive attitude discourage her. She will do anything to claim this reserve man. Ino was right; the Hyuuga seriously needs some aggressive treatment. She boldly pressed herself against him, perfectly aligned with his hardness. With a cute little hiccup, she mumbled, "Y-You… you really want me. Don't even try to deny it," she slurred, "I can practically feel your arous-"
Neji seized her face and pressed his lips ferociously against hers, silencing her with a powerful kiss. He eagerly ate up her words, despite her soft sound in response. His lips were moving with an urgent desperation. She returned his kiss with the same intensity, bending down to do so. Their eyes locked, his piercing white gaze meeting hers in the dimly lit room. In that moment, a primal connection ignited between them.
Neji stopped battling himself. He was painfully aroused, and the throbbing ache in his groin was certainly palpable to her. He held her face with his hands, ensuring they wouldn't part, showing his ownership over her. He'd be serious if she demanded it. The people around him, especially some familiar faces (thankfully not his uncle), gasped in utter disbelief. But neither he nor she gave a damn. He licked the slit between her lips, asking for permission like the gentleman he was.
A warm, wet kiss landed on her lips. When she parted her lips, he wasted no time by slipping his tongue inside. She tilted her head and passionately kissed him. Their tongues entangled, probing the depths of one another. The taste of alcohol added to the intensity.
The cherry blossom had a stomach full of butterflies. Her body trembled with an intense heat that coursed through her. Their kiss was filled with intense passion, evident in every touch and movement. Her emotions were overwhelming, swirling like the sound of their kisses, drowning out other noises. Each smooch was a testament to his dominance and his capacity to command her. If she hadn't been straddling him, her legs would have been shaking. She believed he could feel her frantic heartbeat. Their bodies were pressed tightly together as she drew him closer. Her fingers found their way to his scalp, intertwining in his luscious locks. Her touch elicited a soft, hushed groan of pleasure as a reward. Her teeth instinctively grazed his lower lip at that precise moment, leaving a delicate trace of blood.
Neji was hit by a wave of sanity. Sakura wiped the metallic flavor from his lips with a swift lick, leaving him with a delightful tingle. He hadn't intended to kiss her like that. He never saw it coming, but when she kissed him back with equal fervor, he gave in. Their desires were perfectly in sync, as if they were meant to be. The situation would get out of hand if he didn't put a stop to it. With the last vestiges of his self-restraint, he forced himself to break the connection.
Sakura wanted nothing more than to chase those lips, her desire burning within her. But he held back, and that restraint was enough to make her whimper softly.
The Anbu Captain was breathing hard. He was transfixed by the way her cheeks turned a deeper shade of crimson. Her eyes were filled with intense desire and longing. He guided her head to rest snugly into the crook of his neck, shielding her smoldering gaze from onlookers.
Ino smiled mischievously. Her instincts never failed. Their love grew from gratitude and admiration. As she gazed upon them, she couldn't help but feel that they were absolutely meant to be together.
Being close to Neji, Tenten knew he had to follow strict Hyuuga rules in everything he did. Public displays of affection were strictly forbidden. It was a bold statement about his intentions.
Lee was drunk, but his heart was about to be swept away by a storm of emotions. His disbelief was audible, but the next morning would most likely blur his memories. Kiba gasped and whistled in amazement as he looked at what lay before him. Rumors will undoubtedly spread like wildfire across town the next day.
Sakura found comfort leaning against Neji as dizziness returned. She felt safe and loved in his embrace. The kiss they'd just shared was absolutely mind-numbing, filling her veins with pure bliss. The dim lights of the club danced around her, blurring into a kaleidoscope of colors. She wasn't sure if she was tipsy from the drink or simply dizzy from all the excitement.
Neji took in his surroundings as he tapped into awareness. Every muscle in his body was poised, ready to react in an instant, his impassive face firmly in place. He had always carefully guarded and hid his emotions. However, to his astonishment, he ended up publicly expressing his love. The realization of how much he loved her left him shaken.
The crowd was captivated. They couldn't take their eyes off of them. A group of girls watching blushed as they witnessed this breathtaking display of passion. Everyone was taken aback by the legendary kunoichi's bold refusal of Uchiha's advances. She didn't let that stop her playful banter with the Hyuuga prodigy. Their furious trading of kisses made it clear that their seemingly innocent relationship was much deeper than it appeared.
"Jeez…" Kakashi muttered under his breath with a mischievous glint, "Perhaps it would be wise for the two of you to find a more private place for your interactions." Sakura's flushed face was hidden from prying eyes by the Hyuuga boy. Hmm. Although it was a small gesture, it was very expressive of his feelings for the pinkette. They had matured from innocent children to capable adults, no longer the brats he remembered. They should have understood the implications of what they were doing. Sasuke had long since left. He glanced at Gai, only to find him brimming with enthusiasm yet utterly astounded when his beloved student broke through his stoic facade, revealing an outward public display of affection that had left him speechless.
"Heh, it seems like Hyuuga boy has gradually absorbed some of your enthusiasm." The Rokudaime grinned heartily as he looked at them behind his trusty mask. To speak of, the Hyuuga boy was a priceless soul. Kakashi was actually quite appreciative of the boy stepping in to save Naruto. If Hyuuga was her pick instead of Sasuke, he was totally cool with it. Sasuke was no longer relevant.
"Ah, indeed, you speak the truth, Kakashi! Sakura-chan has blossomed into a formidable kunoichi, displaying not only incredible strength but also incredible wisdom!" Gai couldn't help but feel a surge of victory coursing through his veins as he finally emerged triumphant over his eternal rival. He had no clue about their relationship. It never even crossed his mind that they could be together.
Tsunade Senju's heart probably skipped a beat when she discovered that her beloved disciple had secretly fallen head over heels for the charming Hyuuga boy. There was never any sneaky behavior between them. As hints started to surface, the Godaime had a sudden moment of realization- they truly did make quite the pair. Through the pain they endured, the hard work they put in, and the emotional battles they fought, their connection deepened. About the Hyuuga, she had to talk to Sakura. She needed to be aware of something that had an impact on their destiny and change the path of their shared journey.
Hinata gaped as she stared in complete amazement. It wasn't just any clone, and it definitely wasn't just any mission. His cousin had always been the epitome of grace and modesty in public. Something was about to change tonight. Naturally, she thought they would have a heart-to-heart and share their true feelings, but she never expected to see the open adoration they showered on each other. Without any reservations. The Hyuuga princess wondered if the pinkette truly understood the impact she had on her nii-san. Her cheeks turned a rosy shade as she quickly looked in another direction. Her eyes landed on her beloved, who was squirming uncomfortably in his chair. He was only looking at Sakura and Neji and not anywhere else.
Neji observed the groom, who was currently having mental anguish. If he wasn't caught up chatting with the other guests, he should've gone up to him and confronted him. Their sensei were completely stunned, unable to find the words to express their astonishment.
The groom was so scared that he couldn't even take it. His jaw fell to the ground, almost smacking it. He'd never seen Sakura-chan act like that, especially not in front of everyone. Naruto fell into deep thought. She had asked for the kiss, maybe she was drunk? Neji didn't seem to try to stop her, but were they both giving and taking? And was that a hungry kiss? A type of kiss that his lover always gave him. It was like they had kissed a million times before. Hey, Neji, what happened to that public decency rule you always lectured me about? Hinata was telling the truth when she said that they both liked each other.
It was a moment when the young Hyuuga heiress felt a strange emotion bubbling up inside her for the second time that day. Did jealousy consume her?
As the party came to an end, the guests began to leave, many of them feeling quite intoxicated. Sakura was no exception. She slept on the Hyuuga. Hinata walked up to them, and when they tried to gently rouse her, she let out a little whimper and held onto Neji even tighter. The sleeping kunoichi was super clingy, wrapping her arms around him wherever she could reach. Hinata asked her cousin to bring Sakura back to the Hyuuga compound. After that, she thanked everyone who attended the party. Completely oblivious to the curious gazes directed their way, Neji scooped Sakura into his arms, and they vanished from the club in an apparition.
End Note:I'm really suck in dialogue writing. This is the plot I wanted to write 1 year ago, the prompt is public declaration! Next, we're going to explore the smut part. If you haven't encourage me yet, please do so for a faster update.
A/N: Thank you for the reviews/follows/favs.