Sakura opened the door when she heard knocks, her eyes widened when she saw Neji holding his bags.
"Gomen ne, Sakura-chan." Neji started. "Can I just leave my things here for a while? I cannot effeciently find an apartment if I bring them along." he explained.
"What? Why? What happened?" Sakura asked, taking a couple of Neji's bags and ushering him in.
Neji deposited his things at Sakura's living room before he answered her. "Well, Hiashi-sama kicked me out of the compound as I am no longer a Hyuga, he said. So I'm looking for new quarters."
"Stay here, Neji. You don't have to find anything. This house is big enough for the two of us."
"Sakura," Neji held her hand. "I appreciate the concern. But I don't want people to think badly of you because I'm staying here, and we're not even married. I will find shelter, okay?"
"Neji, just return to the compound. Apologize to your uncle, and just follow through your clan's tradition." Sakura implored. "I would sleep better at night thinking you're safe around your clansmen than be with me and be scorned at."
"Sakura, we already talked about this. It will not happen. I will not let you go." Neji answered, adamantly.
"Neji, its just the start. What will happen if you continue to defy them you - "
"I'll be happy." Neji interrupted her. "If I continue to defy them, I will be truly happy because I will not have to lie to myself again. Whatever happens, I'll never give you up."
"Neji - "
"No." Neji answered. "I will not." He sighed and took Sakura's hands into his, tracing a simple pattern to her knuckles. "All of this is worth it, as long as its for you."
"Neji." Sakura whine.
"I won't give up on us." Neji assured her. "Trust me please."
Sakura nodded, aware that no matter what she said, Neji will not return to his clan. She just hoped that he made the right choice.