Chemistry in Stacks

by stronger13

Neji Hyuga and Tenten are college students at Konoha University, pursuing their dreams in the medical field. Despite their occasional arguments and rivalry, they have always maintained a civil relationship. Slowly, they confront their unresolved feelings and discover a deeper connection that goes beyond friendship. [NTMonth2023 Prompt: Library]

5. Chapter 5 Dust and Labsheets

The library was unusually quiet as Tenten continued her duty, annoyed by the lingering presence of Shion's earlier interference. As Neji was excused to attend a conference, Tenten found herself alone with Shion, who couldn't resist asking about Neji's relationship status.

"Is Neji still single?" Shion inquired, a hint of curiosity in her voice.

Tenten, unamused, retorted, "You should have just asked him yesterday. You two seemed to be all over each other."

Shion laughed lightly, dismissing the notion. "Oh, Neji is my ultimate crush. He's the kind of guy parents would gladly approve of."

Tenten rolled her eyes, having heard enough of Shion's flirtatious remarks. She was more focused on her own tasks and dealing with her allergic rhinitis acting up.

As Shion's duty ended, she left Tenten behind, who was now feeling overwhelmed with the mountain of laboratory activities that awaited her submission. Still determined to finish her work, Tenten refused Ino's suggestion to rest and reassured Hinata that she would be fine.

"I just need to survive the first period class tomorrow by turning in my work. I'll be okay," Tenten grinned, attempting to alleviate her friends' concerns.

Left alone once more, Tenten immersed herself in her lab requirements, unaware that she had dozed off due to exhaustion. Neji, having heard from Hinata about Tenten's situation, stayed back when Ko, their family driver, came to pick them up.

Upon finding Tenten sleeping, Neji couldn't help but notice the paleness of her skin and her hair falling out of her ponytail. Carefully examining the papers before him, he couldn't resist taking action. While she slept, he started working on her laboratory worksheets.

Smirking at the simplicity of the task, Neji chuckled softly. "These are just a piece of cake for her; she was almost done with her work anyway."

Feeling content with his gesture, Neji decided to leave before she woke up. He knew Tenten well enough to anticipate her reaction if she found out he had worked on her tasks without her permission.

As the evening wore on, Tenten finally stirred awake, her eyes widening in surprise as she noticed her completed papers. But it wasn't just the sorted papers that caught her attention; it was the familiar handwriting on her lab sheets.