Author's Note: Thank you for following the story. No beta.

Chapter 2

As the vibrant hues of the setting sun painted the sky, Hinata and Sakura arrived at the entrance of the Hyuuga compound. The Hyuuga heiress beckoned the pinkette to come with her.

The clan's deep-rooted pride in their rich heritage was beautifully showcased by the contemporary Japanese-style architecture that adorned their surroundings. The grand compound stood tall with pristine white walls. Guards were stationed around the perimeter to keep the public away.

Three years had passed since she made frequent visits to this place, all for the purpose of conducting routine check-ups on her favorite patient. The once-familiar compound had undergone a remarkable expansion, and the once-devastated regions were restored to their former glory. It felt as if she had stepped into an entirely new district of the hidden village, filled with grand, sprawling buildings and beautiful gardens that seemed to go on forever. The Hyuuga, being one of Konoha's four noble clans, Sakura was not surprised. Their heiress's upcoming marriage to the Hokage was an honor for them. Was it a declaration that the Hyuuga were better than, or even superior to, the Uchiha? Members of the branch conversed quietly, their demeanor reflecting the refined etiquette of a prestigious clan. They bowed in reverence as the heiress passed, showing respect for her power and status. After rounding a few corners, they arrived at the Branch family's charming courtyard. The sun was setting over the communal area, illuminating the long pavilions. Sakura stepped into the garden and took a deep breath, relishing the crisp autumn air. Lazy orange clouds drift across the sky. She strolled through the garden, admiring the colorful trees and the falling leaves. It was calming and relaxing. The estate was smaller, though not as grand as the main one, but it was charming and well-kept. The Hyuuga heiress led them deeper into the estate. There were secluded quarters, separate from the rest.

"Do you remember the way?"

"Of course, I do."

Hinata couldn't help but giggle softly when her eyes met Sakura's.

As they rounded the corner, Hinata pointed to a building and announced, "We're here! Feel free to stay here as long as you want, Sakura-chan!"

She paused for a moment to take everything in. This place would always have a special place in her heart. The Hyuuga prodigy's quarters was just a few steps away, where she had spent countless hours tending to his wound. Looking forward to seeing him again.

"Neji-niisan's room is on the right, just where it should be. You must know this place well," the look on her best friend's face told her everything she needed to know that she wasn't shocked.

"You've had this all planned out!" Sakura smiled, but her eyes showed disapproval.

The heiress bit back a laugh and reminded the kunoichi, "You need to get along with him, remember?"

The pinkette noticed the quarters was empty as all the lights were switched off.

"Oh, nii-san was on a mission! He would return in a couple of days. Come on, let's go inside."

Hinata opened the shoji door to welcome her inside. Simple and functional. The one-bedroom abode looked just like the one the Hyuuga prodigy had.

The walls were a calming shade of blue, and the furniture was set up to make the room warm and cozy. Across from the living room was a small kitchen, and to the left was a bathroom. In the back, a large bed was placed. Beside the bed stood a wooden wardrobe.

The heiress was definitely trying to set them up. Her heart raced with excitement as the idea took hold in her mind. Yet a wave of nervousness washed over her, causing her to hesitate. But what if they just can't seem to hit off? She never thought it was a bad idea or questioned why Hinata was doing it. Sakura was, however, grateful for her efforts.

"Did the room separation remind you of something?" The Hyuuga Heiress paused and smiled. "The two of you should have a coffee chat to discuss the upcoming waltz lesson," the Hyuuga Heiress suggested with a smile. "Make yourself at home. See you tonight."

"Thank you very much, Hinata. I really like it here."

"Everything for you. I'm happy you liked it!"

Hinata left, giving the pinkette time to rest. Sakura settled into the room. The sunset had disappeared as she stood against the tall sliding screen door and looked out at the garden. Sakura showered after organizing her things. She dried her hair with a blow dryer after showering. She rested on the soft satin sheet before reuniting with her friends later that evening.

Sakura was reuniting with her old gang for a long-awaited night out in Konoha. They found a quiet corner to catch up and reminisce over drinks.

In the dimly lit bar, nostalgia washed over her. The shinobi hangout was a popular spot, not too loud, with just the right music for a cozy atmosphere. The bustling bar was filled with shinobi and civilians taking a much-needed break. Everyday life was filled with missions and responsibilities, which could become overwhelming at times.

Sakura would often have one or two drinks after a long day at work, just like she did in Suna, savoring the taste of the alcohol and appreciated life's little moments.

The barmaids were shocked to see Sakura again after such a long time. She was happy to see them. She got a smoothie without alcohol because she had to go to sleep early tonight and didn't want to wake up with a hangover from a long trip this morning.

A few hours later, laughter could be heard from their corner. With great excitement, they discussed every detail of the Hyuuga's wedding, from the ceremony to the honeymoon. Ino had become inebriated and was now acting loud and tipsy.

They raised their glasses, shouting, "Cheers!" and toasting to their unbreakable friendship.

Ino was feeling down after her breakup with Nara. Sakura recalled the times they spent together, finding comfort in sweet treats, tissues, and cozy movie nights that helped her find healing. Sakura was happy to see the blonde and the artist together. In a challenging world, the blockhead miraculously grasped her ever-changing emotions, resulting in a beautiful bond between them.

The topic shifted to Sasuke's engagement. The girls were puzzled by Karin's marriage to the Uchiha clan and wondered what had caused Sasuke to have a change of heart. As they chatted, their thoughts inevitably drifted towards Sakura. For the past two years, their interactions were limited to occasional, brief encounters at work.

They wanted to know her current feelings about him. Her friends always thought the pinkette would end up marrying the Uchiha after a year of dating, but it never happened. It surprised them.

Sakura was undeniably in love with him before. He had a special spot in her heart. She considered giving in if it could work. But love was a commitment, not just an emotion. After the war, she discovered a newfound appreciation for love. After enduring numerous obstacles, they decided to go separate ways. After ending their tenacious relationship, she could move on.

"So, staying friends is probably the best thing to do," Sakura concluded.

"J-Just, uh, make sure you don't feel bad about it. Hic- Oops, sorry about that!" The blonde jerked her head and gave her friend a determined look.

She yelled at the bartender for more liquor because her glass was empty. Sakura told him "no" with her hand to stop the blonde from drinking more.

"Hey Hinata! Sorrry, bud. Y-Your escape plan didn't work out this time. C'mon, drink it up! Hic-" She slurred, nudging the Hyuuga, handing her a swig.

Hinata braced herself, downing her drink in a single gulp. Sakura was totally in awe of her friend's bravery. They continued to chat, their conversation flowing effortlessly.

As they were chatting, Hinata brought up her cousin and casually mentioned, "Remember I told you about Neji-niisan? Hitomi-san broke off their engagement not long ago. My father was so mad about the engagement being called off."

"W-Why would he be down for, an arranged marriage?! Wha'shappenin'? Hic- I just don't get why he did it…"

"I think there could be some explanations for that," said the weapon mistress. "And no one's gonna question him, that's for sure. Do you have any idea why she broke up with him, Hina? Even though I don't surprise that, the woman just wasn't the right fit for Neji."

The blonde made fun of the thought that the lady might want to sleep the stoic male in playful banter. The brunette said that Neji probably frustrated the lady with his whole 'I don't show emotions' thing, irritated her and proved her point.

While listening to them chat, the pink-haired kunoichi sipped her drink silently. The man was the holy grail of Shinobi. The lady could not have ended the marriage because they were not compatible. The heiress scolded them for mocking her cousin.

"Despite busy mission schedule, Neji-niisan made time for Hitomi-san," she said, smiling as she talked about her cousin. He would prioritize above all else something to which he agreed, without any betrayal.

"How'd he even find time for her with his busy schedule? Aw, tha's so sweeet!" Ino paused for a moment while her mind processed what had just been said before she responded. "And, it looks like someone's can have their eyes on a certain someone now that he's single," Ino said with this playful grin and drumming her manicured fingers on the table.

Hinata gave a confident nod. Ino was implying that their friendship had once been strong but had since faded. Because of this, she made an effort to pair them up. She was positive that her nii-san must have liked the pinkette, too.

Sakura found a ray of hope in the fact that he was no longer attached to anyone. Maybe, just maybe, he'll finally notice her this time.

"Well, well. Do you have a story to share? I'm dying to hear all the details!" The brunette said, leaning forward in anticipation.

Sakura's heart raced as their conversation left her flustered, leading to an unexpected coughing fit.

"Sakura-chan, are you okay?"

"Y-Yamanaka Ino! Cut it out!" Sakura yelled, raising an eyebrow.

"You can't just go grabbin' someone's wrist like that and threatenin' to hurt 'em. That's not coool."

"I'll mess you up if you don't stop!"

With a mischievous grin, the blonde pondered all the little clues that hinted at the pinkette's feelings for the Hyuuga. With her medical expertise, she volunteered to assist him on his mission. She had always dropped by his place for routine checkups. Their professional conversation in her office went on for longer than usual, which made Ino feel a little bewildered. The blondie had totally seen it countless times.

It made Sakura blush just to think about what the blonde might say. All eyes were glued to the inebriated blonde, impatiently waiting for her to speak to them at last. But Sakura swiftly intervened, silencing her before she could utter a single word.

The night was filled with laughter and shared stories. As the girls chatted away, time seemed to slip by unnoticed, and nothing else mattered except for the bond they shared. The group of friends stepped out into the cool night air as they disbanded for the rest of the night.

Sakura woke up in the middle of the night. In a stifling room devoid of cool, fresh air, she couldn't shake off that strange, uneasy feeling. As an elite kunoichi, she was accustomed to keeping watch in the dead of night during her missions in the dark of night during her countless missions. She got out of bed and went outside to enjoy the refreshing breeze.

Putting on the clog, she went down the stairs and into the courtyard. She liked the way the crisp air made her feel as she walked through the fall leaves. The temperature had dropped slightly, and there was a new chill settled in the air.

Under the gentle moonlight, the garden lamp posts casting a warm glow upon the path, guiding the way to a tranquil koi pond. There was white sand and rocks all around it. There were water lilies floating on the surface, their petals dancing in harmony with the gentle ripples. Koi fish swam calmly in the water.

Sakura sat on a stone bench, flanked by several bonsai plants. The soothing sound of crickets in the background added a touch of enchantment to the tranquil night. She closed her eyes as the wind let the breeze tousle her hair, catching a whiff of nature.

There was a rustling in the bushes, a figure was moving stealthily through the underbrush. There was a black cat. However, she couldn't get rid of the feeling that she was being watched. She shuddered at the thought of the clan's blood limit, which grants them exceptional long-range vision as well as the ability to see through objects from almost any angle. She instinctively raised her guard; her instincts were never wrong.

A mysterious figure observed from the shadows kept a watchful and patient stance, curiously studied the trespasser. He effortlessly leapt from the rooftop, gracefully landing on the pavement, making their presence known.

Sakura watched as a silhouette gliding through the darkness moved with a sense of secrecy and elegance, evoking the image of a stealthy feline. His chakra was expertly concealed. She wondered how long he had been there. Their eyes were like crystals, reflecting the dim light, riveted on her the entire time.

Her body was lifted off the ground by a strong surge of magnetic force to be pulled backwards, controlled completely by the person. He was the only Hyuuga who had the unique ability to manipulate gravity with his mind. The next thing she knew, she was colliding into something solid on her back. His arm around her, supporting her shoulders as she rested her head on his.

Silver white pierced through her emeralds. Sakura felt a flutter in her heart when he looked at her with his mask on. Any emotion was completely devoid beneath them. Their eyes locked onto her face, searching for a moment, as memories flooded back.

Her diamond seal, perfectly christened on her forehead, emitted a powerful aura that could not be ignored. Her eyelashes fluttered as she looked into his eyes.

Her intelligence, prowess, and beauty were all the qualities he admired. She was not only an exceptional medic-nin, but she was also a formidable kunoichi who outshined her peers in combat. She had even outperformed her mentor. Her unwavering commitment to medical research was well-known throughout the region. And given her the prestigious position of Vice Commander of Konoha's Medical Division.

"Haruno, it's been a while," he greeted her with a smooth voice.

He came back sooner than expected, having completed his mission. He wondered why she was there. Perhaps she came to stay as a house guest. Interesting.

His voice, deep and smooth, was so familiar and comforting that she couldn't help but lower her defenses.

Everyone was astounded by his willingness to lay down his life for the people of Konoha and his clan, including Sakura. It was a brave deed. He was gravely wounded and was found among the bodies. Sakura led the team, and the Creation Rebirth Jutsu was completed in three days. It didn't matter to her that the jutsu might shorten her life. She cared for him in the critical care unit until he started to regain consciousness.

During the six months of healing and recovery, Sakura noticed a change in him. He became more receptive towards her. The days went by, and they got closer. She couldn't help but wonder if his stoic demeanor was just a facade. He changed the way she loved and appreciated herself. She started to see him differently, and she began to admire him more.

It was Hyuuga Neji, the man she trusted and admired.

The Hyuuga let go of her slowly to keep a respectful distance. She watched as he pulled off his mask and placed it casually on his waist.

"Hi, Neji," she said with a smile.

Her expression was a mix of surprise, happiness, and anticipation. "Surprised to see me?" He asked, poker face intact.

"No surprise, really. You always manage to come back earlier than expected, don't you?"

"Hmm… My team finished the task ahead of schedule."

"Oh, come on! You're just being modest again."

The big orange t-shirt she was wearing caught his eye. Clearly, it was taken from the loud Jinchuuriki. It stopped around her mid-thigh. Her toned legs were on display, practically begging for his attention. The shadows revealed her curves, leaving little to imagine. She looked tired but still lively. Her shoulder-length petal hair was down and disheveled, but still looking lovely.

Neji never thought much about her pink hair and green eyes until much later, after the war.

He had a lasting impression of the time spent in the hospital. He started to think she could be more than just a friend because of some things that happened.

During a radical change in his blood limit, he was in excruciating pain from vision loss. The pinkette cared about him even when he was having a temper tantrum. She combed through dusty archives and old scrolls, but there were no pertinent medical records or studies to determine what caused his eyes. His clan granted the medic access to their personal library for extensive research. As time passed, he grew to trust her. He would listen to her, she motivated him. As his vision gradually improved, he was greeted with a lovely mix of pinks and greens. It quickly became his favorite color.

He looked trim and formidable in full Anbu gear and a white cloak, signifying his status as a squad leader. His hair was tied back neatly in a slightly disheveled ponytail.

The day when the Hyuuga opened his eyes and stared back at her with his new Dojutsu was one she will never forget. After their last encounter, they haven't crossed paths in battle. The Teiseigan discussed in the Bingo book had a bluish tinge and intricate rings around his pupil, both of which added to his allure.

And it all started two years ago, when their relationship was slowly falling apart. It had been forever since they last saw each other.

Her gaze lingered, examining his appearance closely as she took a step closer. The Anbu captain may have looked exhausted, but he was still effortlessly handsome. With a little stubble on his face, his rugged charm was irresistibly hot.

With a battered face and a grip on his shoulder, he soldiered on. When the kunoichi spotted an injured person, her medic instincts kicked in right away.

"Are you hurt?" she asked, sounding concerned.

Neji glanced downwards and casually shrugged. "It's no big deal. Just a tiny scratch."

"Damn, that's a gnarly cut," she said, sounding worried and eyeing the gash on his shoulder.

Just as she expected, he responded exactly as she had expected. When a headstrong patient insists on defying the odds and proving he can handle life on his own, it was really getting to her.

"You're bleeding!" she exclaimed, giving him a stern look. "Need a hand?"

"Nope, I'm good. Don't worry, I can handle this."

"What's got you thinking, hmm...? Sorry for not being as skilled at healing as the Hyuuga."

Sakura had complete confidence in his abilities and never doubted them. With their strong chakra control, the Hyuuga clan excels in the Gentle Fist. Their bloodline had reached new heights thanks to his Gentle Touch, which enhanced its power and precision; the man can even heal.

"Apologies, Haruno. Please don't be offended," he quickly clarified, making sure his words were clear. "You know, that's not what I meant. I never said anything to downplay your amazing skills."

"Great. You're just as stubborn as always," the pink-haired medic sighed, frustrated by the never-ending stubbornness of the person in front of her. "I don't care if you're twenty-one or twelve. You're acting like a child!" she scolded. Their relationship was once again strained to the breaking point.

The pink-haired girl was certain that Neji would have totally given her a hard time when they were younger. The Anbu captain had matured over time, becoming wiser and more patient.

"You've caught my amusement. You think you were as stubborn as me? Oh, you should know, I never leave a patient unattended," she said firmly. "Even if they're adamant about refusing treatment," she said, sauntering over to him.

She reached out and touched his shoulder. She gave him a playful punch on his injured shoulder, making the Hyuuga wince even though it was just a little.

Neji frowned. His piercing gaze, a blend of anguish and adoration, fixated on her.

A tense standoff was going on. The kunoichi knew how to handle this patient better than anyone else.

"Did you know that just a little tap from you can be totally lethal?" With his good hand, he supported his shoulder.

He was met with a great deal of determination in her green eyes and a smug tugging at the corners of her lips.

After a long and grueling mission, an unexpected weariness settled in. He just didn't feel like arguing with her. With a curt nod, he gave in before enduring yet another round of painful treatment from the medic.

"Alright, I'm done wasting time here. Let's come inside."

With that, he made his way towards the porch that would take him back to his quarters. He pushed open his shoji door and invited them in.

End Note: This chapter contained canon divergence. By implanting Hagoromo cells, Sasuke was able to awaken a Rinnegan. Neji might have possessed Hamura Otsutsuki's Tenseigan. They are, after all, both prodigies. So, let's make Neji unlock his Tenseigan from the time he nearly died in the war.

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