Author's Note: Thank you so much for all the reviews and interest in the story. It makes my heart leaps with joy. Enjoy a slightly longer chapter than usual.

Chapter 4

Sakura woke up to the sun shining through her curtains, feeling content. She couldn't remember the last time she slept well. Knowing that she couldn't sleep much longer because the sun was up.

She stirred in the bed; her nightshirt was riding up, tangled with another, with the Hyuuga crest embroidery. With a smile on her face, she held onto it. He left her a note on her nightstand.

'You may keep the pajamas. They are now yours.'

The note was written in impeccable handwriting, which she knew right away. She blushed when she caught a whiff of his scent.

She was supposed to meet the Hyuuga for a dance lesson, but he got called to a clan meeting. Through his retainer, he sent her a note, saying that their dancing lesson would be rescheduled for later in the day.

The thought of dancing with him still made Sakura nervous. She shouldn't have worn her workout clothes to the dance class, could she? She found herself in a predicament. She left the compound to look around Kohona after taking a shower.

She walked through the extensive reed fields that bathed in the soft orange light, enjoying the peacefulness. Then she walked down a busy street in town and wandered around, looking at clothes in different stores. Eventually deciding on a casual and comfortable outfit. She completed her shopping and saw young Genin training hard in the academy. The Will of Fire remained strong for future generations.

Sakura had been working tirelessly on her medical research in Suna for months. In the weeks leading up to the wedding, she planned to use the time to relax and spend time with her friends. Sakura wandered aimlessly until she ended up at the hospital.

She looked through Neji's kitchen window this morning and noticed that his medical report was gone from his desk. It bothered her so much that she decided to find the answer. Furthermore, Shizune-nee asked her to stay and help in the hospital when she had free time before returning to her duties in Suna. She made up her mind to start her day by donning her lab coat.

The Sannin had become the most skilled medics in the region. As a guest professor, she shared her expertise in medical jutsus, teaching young medics the art of healing. She helped heal patients with serious injuries. She was good at making conversation, telling jokes, and talking lightly to cheer them up. The following hours passed by quickly.

She couldn't find his recent medical records, which worried her because they might be hidden for confidentiality reasons. She planned to ask her senpai for permission to handle the file.

Sakura finished her medical coaching at one in the afternoon. In just an hour, she would have met him. Her heart raced with anticipation for a dance lesson with the Hyuuga that would probably change her life.

The Hyuuga clan's esteemed members gathered for an important meeting. They sat around the table, filled with anticipation. Hanabi and Neji sat beside Hyuuga Hiashi, attentively observing their clan's leader. While Hinata sat alongside Hanabi.

The prodigy adopted the attire of the other clansmen. Placing an air of nobility, the formal attire consisted of a white sashinuki hakama paired with a broad black obi that hung to the right and cinched at the waist. He donned a long white cape adorned with a substantial black bar extending along its entirety. Having an impeccable air of solemnity and grace.

Hinata noticed her cousin sitting on the sidelines while the clan discussed something. Something didn't seem to matter to him.

Two hours into the meeting, Neji was so impatient that he was on the verge of killing. He could have picked a better thing to do with his time than suffer through a dull meeting. He didn't care much about the meeting's topic, but as a potential clan leader, he had to be there.

Neji couldn't stop thinking about Sakura. Having her on his arm yesterday was both a blessing and a curse. They would meet again later in the afternoon. He was surprised when he agreed to be her dance partner.

[Flash back three months ago]

Three months ago, Neji was writing a report about his recent mission in his room when he was interrupted by a knock on the door. The Anbu captain's responsibilities extended beyond just protecting the village; he also had to attend meetings, complete paperwork, and manage roasters.

"Can I help you with anything, Hinata-sama?" He asked respectfully. "Please, have a seat," he gestured towards the zabuton cushion seat in front of his desk. He kept his cool for whatever might come his way.

"Sorry for interrupting, Neji-niisan!" She said it softly, her voice full of admiration. It was no surprise to see him still hard at work, even at this late hour. "I just wanted to share something with you."

"Hm."

"Oh, guess what? Sakura-chan said yes to being my maid of honor!" she happily exclaimed, settling into her seat.

At the mention of the name, Neji stifled a smile. He had no reason to feel this way.

"Haruno is a great choice for both you and Naruto," his said with sincerity. "Is everything okay? I'm sorry, I don't get how this relates to me."

Neji arched an eyebrow as he regarded the white eyes that mirrored his own. He wasn't sure he wanted to know what she was up to, but he decided not to press the issue.

'How can I bring up her topic without being awkward?' Hinata observed his cousin closely, noticing his familiar furrowed brow that indicated deep concentration, a look she had grown accustomed to.

"Of course it's related. Let me explain everything in just a moment, niisan!"

"By all means, please go on," he said as he casually crossed his arms.

"Sakura-chan will be my maid of honor, which means she'll be your dancing partner on our wedding day. You're the best man, aren't you?"

"But isn't she currently on a long-term medical mission in Suna?"

"Yeah, that's why I'm absolutely thrilled that she accepted my invitation!"

"It's been a while since I last saw her. Wait, dancing?"

"Yeah..." she said, pausing briefly and fidgeting a little. "Father has chosen you to represent him for the dance ritual. This is such an honor!"

"Wait, I wonder if Haruno aware the significance of dancing in my company at the formal event?"

It was a traditional ritual that had been passed down for generations. Dancing with the clan leader has a significant meaning.

"Yes, she agreed with this. I mentioned you to her and why you need a dance partner… so…"

"Okay…" He was met by his cousin's assertiveness. He politely fidgeted, but still responded in a logical manner. "Why not Hanabi-sama or Uncle Hiroshi, if you don't mind me asking?"

As expected, obtaining his agreement proved to be quite the challenge, Hinata thought to herself.

"Don't you think Hanabi-chan is still too young? No one can replace you," she said, smiling, "Father said you're in charge of the clan's affairs now."

After the fourth Shinobi War, Hyuuga Hiashi and most Hyuugas, including Hinata, held him in high regard.

She looked up at him, her eyes filled with hope. Her hands were tightly intertwined. "Please, Neji-niisan!" Hinata pleaded, "Your presence would truly make the occasion even more special for us. It would mean so much to us if you could be there."

"Alright," he conceded sincerely.

Yes! Everything worked fine. Confronting her cousin can be quite intimidating.

"I was wondering if I could ask you for another favor."

Two moons twinkled with excitement, both mischievous but sincere, making Neji suspicious. She finally disclosed the purpose of her visit tonight.

"If it's not too much trouble, can you teach Sakura-chan how to waltz, please?"

"This is the catch," he scowled. His commanding white eyes met hers, and he waited for her to answer.

"There's no catch!"

"You were baiting me into something from the start. Hinata, you don't have to do this for me…" he muttered, baffled as he ran his fingers through his long hair.

"Alright, I admit it. I knew you liked her!"

Neji listened intently but struggled to comprehend the words that were being said. He was aware that the heiress was playing matchmaker for them.

"We're just acquaintances, Hinata-sama," he said defensively. Even if he admitted to liking Sakura, he meant it. She was his friend.

"Are you happy just being her friend, Neji-niisan?"

Hinata respected this man greatly. Her admiration and gratitude for his bravery and kindness will last forever. He supported her and helped her so she could be with Naruto-kun. Whether it was his duty or not, he worked tirelessly to help Hanabi train her Byakugan. He had feelings for Sakura, but he was too dense to admit it. Knowing his stubbornness, she knew she could make them click with enough effort.

"Of course I do, Hinata-sama." The change in subject seemed to make him uncomfortable.

"Are you sure that she thinks the same?"

"She can be with anyone she wants."

"You know, she really brings out the best in you. You're always so much happier when she's around," she said, smiling.

Did his feelings really show that clearly to his heir? He hadn't even been honest with himself about how he really felt.

"Is Sakura okay with me teaching her to dance?"

Nothing about this situation made him feel better. He didn't want to come across as pushy. He liked the pinkette and wanted to keep their friendship going. The thought of scaring her away was the furthest thing from his mind.

"Yes, she agreed to this!"

After what felt like an eternity, he finally said, "I'd be happy to meet your request if my schedule allows it."

"Are you seriously saying yes?" Hinata exclaimed in disbelief, her eyes widening. "Naruto-kun has actually decided to give you a whole month off from active duty!"

"All right…" He finally relented. He couldn't possibly deny her anything, especially not when she gazed at him with those eyes.

[End Flash back]

Neji hadn't expected that he would be teaching ballroom dancing to the pinkette. It would be similar to sparring with her, and he was capable of doing it. A gentle smile appeared at the corner of his lips as he fondly recalled how comfortably her warm body had nestled in his arms the previous night.

The Anbu captain read the agenda over and over for a full ten minutes. He put himself on a strict mission schedule and skipped clan meetings to avoid the subject of his impending marriage.

"Ahem, Hyuuga Neji, are you paying attention?"

He heard his name being called and looked up at the council member, curtly acknowledging that he was listening.

His frown deepened. The council's recent actions were getting more and more ridiculous. He was in disbelief.

Life is too short for romance, relationships, and marriage for Shinobi. Noble clan members pursued arranged marriages and alliances to ensure a strong lineage of descendants. Neji's role as a prominent member of his clan was inevitable.

He was known for his reserved and guarded demeanor, which reflected his honorable nature. A traditionalist who cherished the sanctity of marriage above all else.

The clan's council has decided to use his body to father the next generation, preserve the Hyuuga lineage, and increase the chances of descendants with Tenseigan. This went beyond the limits of his marriage. He strongly against it. He was not the last Uchiha. Hyuuga's legacy shouldn't weigh heavily on him.

"Engage in betrothal agreements upon attaining the age of eighteen, as customary for our clan," he said in a disapproving tone. "You, however, have far exceeded the age of consent."

Neji rose to take his place, his white cape flowing elegantly behind him. All white eyes were fixed on him, shaken by the young prodigy's commanding presence.

"I couldn't do it," he said flatly, his eyes unflinching. He wasn't much of a romantic. The girl he was interested in was already in a relationship. He accepted his clan's arranged marriage without any objections two years ago.

The young Hyuuga's response caused the clan council elder to narrow his eyes in defiance.

No more of that.

Label him a rebel once again; he didn't care about their opinion, even if it meant defying tradition.

"I admire your courage in standing up for your perspective. But could you please explain why you won't reconsider?" asked the clan elder. "What if, Neji, my boy, we were to reconsider your potential to become the first heir of our clan?"

Hyuuga Hiashi raised his nephew as his own child and trained him rigorously in honor of his late brother. The boy was exceptionally talented and was seen as a worthy heir to their clan. When the clan's head appointed Neji to manage clan affairs, this decision ostensibly made Hanabi the second in line to inherit the clan. Council members reacted differently to the decision. The Hyuuga clan's legacy successor debate remained unresolved.

Neji bowed respectfully to the clan elder, who always respected him greatly. "Thank you for your kind offer, Hyuuga-sama. That's not the reason I rejected the proposal, and my decision won't change."

Neji turned to his uncle and greeted him with a bow. "Hiashi-sama, I apologize for not being able to comply with the directive. I wanted to bring your attention to the medical report I submitted. Please consider them," he politely requested.

The prodigy knew that something had recently awakened that had lain dormant inside him. He occasionally had difficulty preventing it from dominating. Nobody in a marriage would look good with his body.

The room became filled with discussion immediately after he finished. Some of his clan members' disdainful looks were something he wouldn't miss. Those who disliked him for his abilities outside of the main house. It was a feeling he had grown accustomed to over the years. He was criticized for challenging their authority. There was disagreement over whether to use the caged bird seal to subdue him again.

Sometimes, things stay the same. No matter how bravely he fought and gave his life in service to the war, he was still considered an inferior branch member. He had to do any task given to him without hesitation or objection. Neji closed his eyes and sank into disappointment, wondering if the sacrifice of his father was truly worthwhile.

Hinata became enraged upon hearing hurtful words aimed at her cousin. He deserved respect. Her marriage to the Hokage made him happy. He once told her that their marriage was not just about them but rather a planned matrimonial alliance, and not everyone was deserving of happiness. When he gave in two years ago, she did not find it surprising. She felt relieved when he finally stood up for himself.

"Both parties must consent for an engagement to take place. That means you weren't going to coerce Neji into it, right?" Hinata inquired, being well-versed in the customs and laws of the Hyuuga. Whatever their clan threw at him, she was going to be by his side.

The tension was palpable as both sides stood firm to defend their beliefs.

Hyuuga Hiashi, with his perceptive gaze, meticulously read over the medical record. The news was worse than he had feared. His heart sank as he read on.

The health status of his nephew's was strictly confidential. If the regions were to discover his vulnerability, it could endanger both him and the clan. He was determined to prevent his late brother's incident from happening again.

His expression remained impeccably composed as he began to speak to the group.

Clearing his throat, Hyuuga Hiashi addressed his clansmen solemnly. "I would greatly appreciate your silence."

The room went silent as everyone awaited the clan leader's next words.

"Greetings, fellow clansmen. Please contribute respectfully and thoughtfully to the discussion. As clan leader, I am responsible for ensuring that all decisions are made with the utmost caution, prudential, and judiciousness, as befits our clan.

I have been made aware that Hanabi and Neji have demonstrated great wisdom and strength. The leadership of our clan is determined by merit and proven ability, not by speculation. I believe that they will lead our clan when the time comes. I assure you that if we all work together with them, we will be able to guarantee the longevity of our clan.

It is widely acknowledged that Neji's achievements have brought great honor to our clan. It was his obligation, not something to be commended, and so he did it.

Besides his responsibilities, he served as the most esteemed member of our clan in Konoha, a precious asset we must safeguard. Any deviation from this will not be tolerated. Given the gravity of the situation, I will grant his request. I apologize, but due to confidentiality, I cannot disclose many details due to confidentiality."

The previous marriage arrangement for the boy did not work out. Hyuuga Hiashi made the decision to support his nephew for both political and personal reasons, aiming to grant him freedom.

Hyuuga Hiashi surveyed the room, his gaze meeting mixed reactions. The course of action that was taken for Neji's well-being was crucial, and this decision was non-negotiable.

Neji's heart swelled with gratitude as he met his uncle's approving gaze.

"The concern has been duly noted," he told the clan elder. "However, the matter concerning Neji's impending marriage shall be revisited in our forthcoming meeting," he said as he turned to face his nephew. He was fully aware that certain members of the clan would strongly oppose his decision.

"Neji, thank you for sharing your perspective. It is important to note that we will not tolerate any act of rebellion. You will be subjected to a suspension of one month from all clan-related duties. Does anyone have any objections or concerns they'd like to voice before we proceed?"

The remaining members observed in silence, having learned better than to acknowledge their leader's authority or interfere with his decision.

"Do you have anything else to add, Neji?"

He bowed to his uncle Hiashi and said, "No, I don't have any objections or concerns, Hiashi-sama."

Neji felt immense happiness when Hiashi-sama disciplined him by barring him from future meetings for a month. The weight of adulthood was taking a toll on him, and the clan meeting added to his burden.

Sakura stepped into the hall and looked around, taking in every exquisite detail. The Hyuuga clan's branch family was known to be bound by duty and tradition. This was their regular meeting place, a place that held great significance to them. It had a modern Zen style with a hint of Hyuuga elegance.

As she looked at the picture frames on the wall, she caught a glimpse of what a prestigious clan could be like. The photo displayed a gathering of various groups, featuring both past and present branch masters alongside their loyal clansmen. As she laid her eyes upon Neji's portrait, she could feel the strong presence he emitted in the traditional garb. Being born into the prestigious clan made formal events second nature to him. In the weeks to come, she will be practicing ballroom dancing with the Hyuuga branch master.

A raised wooden seating area awaits, bathed in soft natural light. The space had four seats encircling a sleek, modern Zen low table. An elegant cream wool rug lies beneath a low table. Elegance and beauty defined it. Sakura settled into the padded seat. The young retainer served Sakura tea with the utmost courtesy and informed her that their young master was on his way. She couldn't help but admire their grace and elegance.

A warm clay tea set sat on the table. Sakura was sipping her tea, waiting for her dance partner. Did her outfit look good? Can she keep up with him? Will it be anything like their previous sparring? Sakura had these concerns on her mind. Just the thought of getting closer to him, maybe even hugging and dancing together, made her feel all fluttery inside. With a cute little nose scrunch and a squint, she glanced at the clock, only to realize that it was already way past two. She wondered how he made time for her. Hinata totally nailed it!

She called up a scroll with a few hand signs and started to read while she waited for Neji. The soft echo of footsteps on the smooth floors broke the silence in a quiet and empty hall.

"Sorry, I got held up," he said, his voice echoing through the hall. He wore his long hair in a loose man bun, with the rest falling down his back. It swayed behind him as he walked toward her.

"Trapped in a meeting?"

"Yeah, it was taking forever." He flashed his white eyes at her and casually asked, "Miss me?"

He changed into a white cotton T-shirt, black slacks, and slip-on penny loafers, dropping his cumbersome formal attire. Her presence instantly calmed him, relieving the tension in his shoulders built up during the clan meeting.

She replied naturally, "Yes, I did," showing that she can handle his quips well. Even though what she said was partly true.

He had smooth cheeks today that made his features sharper, accentuating his flawless pale skin. He looked very different compared to how he looked after his mission the previous day. Even in simple clothing, the Hyuuga prodigy looked as good as ever.

"What do you read?" He asked as he sat down next to her and looked at the scroll.

"Just medicine things," she said, looking up from her scroll and smiling. "How did the meeting go?"

"Mhm, it was redundant and time-consuming."

"I get it, Neji. Probably not very exciting for you either to teach me how to dance." Noticing his subtly altered expression, she said, "I can tell you do this because Hinata told you to. You don't have to do this, though…" She said, while sipping her tea, "I don't want to pressure you."

"You know her well. She enjoyed getting me involved in these things. I won't force myself to do anything; I do it because I want to." His reply was measured and polite. "Shall we?" Neji rose from his seat and strode purposefully around the table.

"Certainly."

Sakura dismissed her scroll with a flick of her wrist, and he helped her up easily. Taking her hand in his, Neji led her to the hall's center. She had only ever touched his hand for healing purposes, as she observed his gentle grip on her hand.

His anxiety grew with every step he took. At the very middle of the hall, they came to a halt, maintaining an arm's length separation.

The pinkette's outfit matched his own perfectly today. She was dressed in a lovely black midi-length dress that had delicate spaghetti straps. The hemline reached just above her knees, and she paired it with black sneakers.

"We'll start with easy moves and work our way up to harder ones. If there's anything about physical contact, such as a close embrace, that makes you feel uncomfortable, just tell me and we can make some adjustments, alright?"

"Uhm… I don't find anything offensive about you, so I'm good." Although the Hyuuga was cocky at times, he was always a gentleman. Now she was looking forward to him hugging her later.

"I've never taught anyone else... Are the terms 'hug', 'sway', and 'twirl' acceptable to you? The second set takes more dancing steps."

"Sounds good to me. Who knows, maybe I'll sweep you off your feet instead," she teased, flashing a playful grin. She can dance rather well, always turning heads at the club with her smooth dance moves, hanging out with her besties. She had never tried ballroom dancing before, but now she was going to do it with her crush.

"I think you're up to the challenge, and I'm excited to watch you try," he responded with a mischievous smile.

The Hyuuga taught the basic moves to start the lesson. Watching their fingers entwined was captivating. He guided her wrist to rest on his shoulder and wrapped his arm around her back, drawing her closer to him. Every time their eyes met, the tension in the air was palpable.

They started with the simplest slow dance, which only had four steps.

The Hyuuga guided her with patience, expertly maneuvering her body into the dance moves. The Gentle Fist's mastery of twirling and pirouetting made his moves smooth and precise, exuding his signature grace and poise. Sakura would sometimes lose focus on what she was doing with his touch on her waist or the enticing proximity of his lips to her forehead. This was an entirely different experience than sparring with the man in combat. With each step, they got closer, and she fell deeper under his spell. The dance ended in a calm and relaxed way.

"See, I was born ready!"

"Is that true?"

"Definitely!"

"Well, let's see if you can live up to that claim." Neji flashed her a lopsided grin and continued, "The dance we have to do at the wedding is the Varsovienne Waltz."

Sakura responded with a groan. This was what she had been stressing over ever since she received the invitation. She'd groove her way through this, crossing her fingers for a good ending.

Neji's pace slowed as he walked her through a sequence of unhurried and fluid motions. He wanted to help Sakura gain confidence before they could dance as one. The pinkette watched him closely, taking notes on his every move. Her determination and focus were just two of her many charming traits that he found admirable. And that included the time she was obstinate enough to prevent his death.

In a world where bloodlines hold great power, she trained hard to become one of the elites. She proved that true strength was not inherited, despite her humble family background.

Despite the occasional misstep in the intricate dance steps as she danced on to keep up with him, Neji was impressed by her natural talent for dancing.

Her pink hair danced as she twirled and spun, flowing in loose waves. Her dress swirled and flowed, matching her every move. She attempted a twirl, but her shoes caught, making her stumble. He quickly supported and steadied her. Maybe wearing heels would help her spin more easily.

He looked at the kunoichi, admiring every attractive detail he had overlooked the night before. A good night's sleep had lifted her dark circles and stress, and her normally bright green eyes shone with vigor.

"How was your sleep last night?"

"Best sleep in a while. You're a lot better at therapy than I thought!"

"I'm glad I could help," his smile was so faint that it was barely noticeable.

"Do you think all Hyuugas are born with this special rhythm?" She placed her hand on his shoulder and raised an eyebrow, feigning skepticism.

She always admired Neji's precision and grace in battle, but seeing him dance showed an entirely different level of skill. Why Hinata had suggested him was clear to her.

"Well, it's nice to think we have rhythm in our blood," he shrugged, a confident smirk on his face. He had a smooth dance repertoire that included Standard Waltz, Smooth Waltz, Varsovienne Waltz, and Foxtrot.

"Oh, for sure," she laughed. She was ready to find out what other cool things he could do.

One thing Neji loved most about the kunoichi was her infectious laughter.

After a long practice, they both took a breath, their bodies sweaty from the intense session. The soft music of the next song began to play as he led her in a second dance.

Sakura could feel the adrenaline pumping through her veins as their bodies moved as one, and he abruptly pulled her close. The sensation of his warm breath on her neck made her shudder.

"Relax and take in the music," he whispered in her ear, feeling her tense up. "You're doing well."

How can she relax when the prodigy stays so close to her.

The Hyuuga smoothly spun her around and pulled her in close. With a gentle push downward, he led her into a daring dip. She leaned back, letting her body arch gracefully, trusting him. He cradled her back with such ease and grace that the descent was perfect and well-controlled. Her shoulder-length pink locks cascading down and reaching for the ground. As he held her close, time seemed to stand still, their bodies frozen in that perfect pose.

Sakura's heart skipped a beat.

The dip felt like a reciprocal moment of trust and harmony in their partnership. And he didn't seem to break their bond.

She was ready for the challenge and determined not to give in to his charm. With the strength of her core, she effortlessly rose and smoothly shifted into a standing pose, adding some flair to the dance.

Her body was reflecting the moves he had just taught her. Her movements were getting smoother and easier as time went on. How quickly she had picked up the dance amazed Neji.

"You seem excited to show off your dancing skills," he said with a little smile on his face.

"See? I told you I could dance," Sakura replied with a triumphant smile.

"Just how lucky you're to have me as your partner."

"Are you trying to make yourself feel good? When did you start talking so smoothly?"

"You know, I always say what I think," he said, twirling her around before bringing her back into his arms and holding her close.

"But I gotta say, I feel just as lucky to have you as my partner," she said, blushing.

He felt so sweet to see her blush like this, and it was all for him. Sakura made no move to push him away. Perhaps his teasing was welcome. He knew that his teasing had gone too far and that he wasn't behaving like a gentleman. He had promised her a polite dance, but what they ended up doing was probably too close for her comfort.

It was when the music reached its crescendo, Neji pulled himself away and mumbled, "My apologies. Um, we will do this again," he said politely that tomorrow was still practice.

"Definitely."

Hinata was standing outside the sliding door, observing them. They were too engrossed with each other to notice her. Everything went according to plan.

End Note: Thank you for reading! Slowly but surely, their relationship is developing. I hope you enjoy these moments as much as I did while writing them.

Do you believe in the stars? It tells you something about someone. Neji was depicted in canon manga as being dependable, loyal, and honest, which are traits of Cancer men. A caregiver, who is also irritable and in a foul mood, says, he has to sit through a lengthy meeting.

Lastly, if you're enjoying the story so far, don't forget to favorite, follow & review so I know to update sooner.