Chapter 11

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As Neji sat sipping his tea, his gaze remained fixed on the Hyuga trainees before him. He became attuned to Hinata's approaching footsteps and acknowledged her presence without diverting his attention from the training ground.

"Hiro, give it another shot. Don't be afraid to put more chakra behind the attack!" he called out to a trainee, a distant relative of his.

"Yes, sir!"

With a glance in Hinata's direction, Neji offered her a small smile.

"Hinata, are you alright?"

She shook her head, unable to hold herself back anymore. In a moment of overwhelming relief, Hinata wrapped her arms tightly around Neji from behind, her heart pounding with joy. Tears welled up in her eyes as she rested her head against his back, feeling a sense of immense relief wash over her. Finally, the haunting nightmares that had plagued her for so long were over.

Taken aback by Hinata's sudden embrace, Neji swiftly turned to face her, his eyes brimming with concern. The trainees ceased their training to watch, unaccustomed to witnessing such an open display of affection from the usually reserved and quiet Hinata.

Subsequently, Neji gave the command for everyone to disperse.

"Onii-sama…" Hinata sniffled softly, her tears subsiding as she gazed up at him with a watery smile. She was just so glad things worked out. She had been so scared, but now everything is going to be fine.

Neji reached out and cupped her cheek, his thumb brushing away a stray tear. "I'm here for you, Hinata," he assured her, his warm smile reassuring her that he would always be there to support her. "So will you tell me what happened?"

Hinata nodded, leaning away from his touch. She rested her head on his lap and glanced towards the training ground as she told him the truth. However, as she spoke, a veil of secrecy shrouded certain aspects of her mission. She explained that there were intricate details, woven into the fabric of their agreement, that remained strictly confidential. These secrets, she confided, were not meant to be shared with anyone else, not even him.

As her confession left her lips, a contemplative silence settled over the room. The weight of Hinata's concern pressed upon him, stirring a profound introspection within. In that quiet moment, he grappled with the implications of something else. What kind of leader am I, if my cousin worries this much about me?

Neji blinked when she sat up and patted him on the head. "Stop thinking so much. I was happy to do this for you. Among all the leaders of our clan, you're undoubtedly the most exceptional and kind, so please don't look so down."

Upon seeing his smile, Hinata had an inkling that she might've just walked into something.

"Then cousin, given that you seem to be feeling better, I will entrust the trainees to your capable hands, while I attend to other business," Her smile faded. She had plans with Tenten later on. "Don't give me that look. You ought to have thought about that before interrupting my training class. I'll let Tenten know on your behalf."

"Onii-sama!" She whined from the floor as she reached out to stop him. But he had already risen to his feet and was about to turn the corner.

"Best of luck, my dear cousin," He said with a mocking smile.

However, when he turned the corner, he paused and frowned.

A leader should be a source of strength, guidance, and reassurance for their followers. Yet, here he was, inadvertently causing anxiety and apprehension in one who was close to him. He pondered the moments when his decisions might have inadvertently burdened his cousin, the instances where his words could have been more considerate, and the times when his actions lacked empathy.

This introspection was not merely an exercise in self-criticism but a genuine commitment to growth and transformation. As he emerged from this reflective state, a renewed determination burned within him. He vowed to lead with greater compassion, understanding, and mindfulness, ensuring that those around him felt supported, valued, and cared for. But his precious cousin seemed to have yet to realize her true worth. That if push comes to shove, he would be willing to wage war had something happened to her while away from the village.

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The next time she had downtime, it was always delightful when Tenten invited her to train or go out to lunch. Yet, today's skies were gloomy as Hinata ventured out, umbrella in hand, towards the designated meeting place, a modest café. With each step closer, she couldn't help but wonder what they would discuss, since her personal and professional matters had become inextricably intertwined. Sorry Tenten, if you ask me how I am, I'd have to simply say that I'm doing fine.

As Hinata approached the designated meeting spot, a sense of relief washed over her. Her gaze landed on Tenten and Lee, both of whom were already present. With Lee's presence, Hinata found solace in the fact that she wouldn't have to bear the sole responsibility of carrying the conversation.

"Hinata!" Tenten's brown eyes lit up with unbridled joy at the sight of her childhood friend being both alive and well. With a heart full of excitement, she dashed past Lee and leaped forward and enveloped Hinata in a warm and affectionate hug before letting her settle on her side, locking arms with her, side by side.

"Lee," Hinata exclaimed. "You got a haircut!"

"It looks good, right?" Tenten chimed in, poking the back of his leg with her umbrella.

Lee's hopeful eyes sought their approval. "Do you like it?"

Hinata inspected the cut more closely, starting with his middle part. He had a bob with long bangs, and when he walked, the Anbu tattoo hidden at the back of his neck slightly showed through his hair.

"You look really charming, but I miss your youthful appearance and thick brows."

As they continued their stroll, the trio held steady in their three-umbrella sway, lost in conversation and seemingly oblivious to their surroundings. Their mortar skills embedded the sense of direction into their bodies, making the path almost mechanical. Despite Tenten's central position, Hinata's attention was primarily drawn to her two companions, her body unconsciously leaning in their direction.

"You wanna talk about what happened yesterday? Declining an invitation, by enlisting the help of your relative, you're so bad."

"Tenten, I already told you I was being punished by him. I got in Onii-sama's way again-"

In a blur of rapid movement, Hinata unexpectedly crashed into another person. Her vision gradually cleared, revealing that the individual standing before seemed like an illusion, too pretty to be real. This person, with hair as pink as their village's favorite spring petals, was breath taken. Hinata had never been so starstruck by someone of the same gender before.

Tenten kindly assisted Hinata in regaining her balance, while Lee offered his own courteous apology.

Recognizing her own contribution to the mishap, Hinata promptly stepped forward to extend her own apology.

The pink-haired stranger, ever the easygoing soul, waved off her concerns with a cheerful laugh.

"No worries! Accidents happen."

Lee agreed, grinning as he spoke in his usual odd manner when he was nervous. "Such minor encounters add zest to our daily adventures."

Finally noticing their headbands, her emerald eyes widened in realization. "Ah, so you three are Shinobis."

"Yes we are." Tentatively, Tenten inquired, "Are you perhaps from this region?" She had no memory of ever encountering this person before.

"Yes. Born and raised here. Although, I travel frequently due to my family's merchant trade. In any case, I hope you all have a great day, and thank you for all you do, and your contributions to protecting the village." She said before parting ways.

"You think she was a civilian?" Tenten asked.

"I think so."

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As the door swung open, Shisui's eyes dilated in surprise as he took in the sight before him. Standing there was a rare sight indeed—one of the few women that Sasuke had allowed into his life.

"Sakura!" Shisui exclaimed, pleasantly surprised. "How long are you staying for this time?

Sakura smiled, her eyes crinkling at the corners. "I'm only in town for a few weeks, so I thought I'd stop by and say hello to everyone," she explained. "Can I come in?"

"Yeah. But Sasuke is tied up in a meeting, if you don't mind waiting for him."

When she stepped inside, a cascade of cherry blossoms swayed behind her. It was merely a prelude to the enchanting quality of her emerald eyes. The delicate curve of her lashes added a touch of elegance to her gaze.

"Sakura?" Sasuke inquired, his voice laced with a hint of surprise as he emerged from behind her as he walked inside his office. Sakura, startled by the unexpected sound, swiftly spun around on her heels. As their eyes met, a radiant smile spread across her face.

"Surprise!"

"Your timing couldn't be better! I just returned from a meeting and am about to go grab lunch. Would you like to join?"

"Yeah. What about Shisui?"

A broad grin spread across Shisui's face. Instantly, Sasuke detected his cousin's subtle attempt to create an opportunity for them to be alone. Although Shisui's intentions were somewhat transparent, it didn't diminish their significance.

"Can't. Already got somewhere to be. People to see. You two go ahead and catch up without me."

"Ah, then can we have takeout instead?" Sakura asked. "I'm feeling kinda spent by having to explain to many people that I'm not a foreigner. Not sure why I get those looks all the time." Sakura said as she settled around in his office.

"They were probably jealous of your small forehead."

"Hey! You know that's a sore spot for me!"

"Just kidding. Do you still like the usual? I'll have someone order it and have it delivered."

"Yes-"

"Alright, have fun you two." Shisui said while closing the door behind him, and went off to tell everyone not to disturb.

Sakura gracefully sat down, and her eyes followed Sasuke as he settled nearby.

"From the way Shisui was looking at me, I gather you're still unattached," Sakura observed with a smile as she leaned in. "Why he insists on making that so blatantly obvious, I'll never know. Let me guess, still single?"

Taken aback, Sasuke retorted, "You are in no position to criticize or make accusations if you haven't been around for a while."

Sakura remained undeterred. "I'll take that as a yes. Is it still because of the same old reasons?"

"I find it challenging to accept the notion of someone I barely know developing feelings for me. So why waste my time on trivial and shallow feelings? And what's your excuse?"

She shrugged. "I don't know. I feel like I'm not able to embrace certain possibilities because I question why people are interested in me now when they weren't before. I even question why you're my friend all the time when I'm not that interesting of a person. I'm kinda boring, aren't I?"

"And I'm completely okay with it."

"I hate you."

"Come now, it's not like that. We have common views, and I'm able to get together like this and shit talk about being single. I don't need another Nenma."

With the amount of time Sasuke has previously talked about Nenma, Sakura was surprised she still hadn't met him. Or was Sasuke keeping her away from him?

"Is Lord Minato's son really that bad?"

"He's insufferable."

"Then why do you smile when you talk about him?"

"Involuntary twitch."

"Right…"

Sasuke hummed thoughtfully. "But you know, your timing couldn't be better. My family is having an intimate gathering this week, and my mother insists I bring a date. Would you be willing to accompany me?"

"I don't think I'd be a good match for the role, since I have never been on a date or a fake one before. I'll be extremely stressed."

Sasuke's eyes widened in surprise and disbelief.

"Still? Seriously? That's insane," he exclaimed. He leaned forward, his intense gaze fixed on Sakura. "You can't sit there and tell me it's because no one has approached you,"

"I just think, who wants to have their heart broken or be cheated on?"

Sasuke's expression softened as he regarded her with a mixture of concern and protectiveness.

"Sakura...which friend hurt you? I promise I'll make them pay," he said, his voice low and dangerous.

"If that's what you're concerned about, you're sweet. But It's the fake pity that gets me every time I tell someone the truth. I've seen too many friends suffer to want to try. Experience isn't required in order for me to see the outcome."

Sasuke sighed. "Alright. Then don't be my date. Just your company is enough."

"You sound even more sexually deprived if you expect me to believe that."

He rolled his eyes. "Right, you've seen through my nefarious plans."

"I'm sure there is someone else you can ask."

She had anticipated a more reserved or indifferent response, but instead, he beamed with delight as he spoke about a person he had planned to introduce to her. His eyes sparkled with genuine appreciation, and the corners of his lips lifted into a radiant smile. Sakura's heart fluttered as she witnessed this unexpected display of happiness. The warmth of his emotions washed over her, leaving her pleasantly surprised and touched. It was a side of him she hadn't seen before, and it left an indelible impression on her mind. He looked so happy when he talked about this person.

But then, his eyes darkened.

"As much as I admire and respect her, I can't shake the apprehension that looms over our collaboration on our next mission. The fear of revealing myself to her consumes me. Would she still care for me if I were not known as Itachi's brother or held the title of an esteemed Hokage?" Even before he met her, he had known her to consistently shown a preference for Nenma, never once expressing any interest in Sasuke in the past. This sudden change in her demeanor left him bewildered and uncertain. "Does any of this make sense?"

"I don't know her, and I'm the worst person to ask for advice. But if it were me in your position, I'd look for a sign of a genuine connection that transcends the superficial trappings of your position and reputation. But to think someone managed to get through you, I'm happy for you."

Sasuke chuckled. "I can't wait till this happens to you too. I can imagine it's going to be more frustrating than it is for me. It doesn't help that as we age, our standards tend to rise."

Sakura nodded. "I hear you. As of right now, other people just don't impress me that much, so that's been my experience."

"I'm not entirely cynical like you. I still find people impressive. While I have my skills, witnessing others' superior abilities humbles me. Although I'd never admit it, It's been instrumental in my success."

With a broad smile, Sakura posed a bold question. "Why don't you ask her out?"

The response, however, was hesitant. "Avoidance has been my strategy. However, I'm beginning to see my parents' point. Being single at 23, I can't help but feel like I'm not winning."

Sakura dismissed the sentiment, reminding her friend of their responsibilities. "You're being overly dramatic. You rule a village. You can just get away with saying you don't have much time to dwell on such matters."

He gave her a blank look. "Sakura, don't you crave intimacy?"

"Occasionally. But then I take myself out, travel, and spend my dad's money, and sometimes it isn't so bad when I have friends who I dote on. But then at times, I can't help but wonder if I've unintentionally replaced romantic relationships with friendships. I find myself going above and beyond to cater to my friends' well-being. I invest so much effort and attention into their lives that I sometimes wonder if they might feel overwhelmed by my actions." She paused, tilting her head and humming softly to herself, as if contemplating a question.

He raised a brow. "Go on."

"Nevermind, it's nothing. But anyway, I was just thinking, attending this party as your fake date wouldn't be a good idea. By doing so, I'm putting myself in harm's way. I've witnessed the lengths my friends will go to when driven by jealousy. If this amazing person happens to like you too, she'll see me as a threat. You should really just own up to your feelings and invite her. I heard it's not cute when guys leaves the girls to chase." Sakura, with her genuine and innocent nature, exuded a wholesome aura, as she rightly added: "But obviously I'm talking about the healthy kind of chase. Relationships that start with toxicity tend to fail from the very start. Or so I observed."

He sighed. "You wouldn't have given this harmless fake date a second thought if I hadn't told you about her."

"It's because I'm invested, and I want to see you happy, that I'm being this way. Sasuke, do not run away."

How can a guy like him chase another at this stage?

Sasuke almost asked but refrained from speaking, because he wasn't entirely honest, as he recognized that his past actions were the true obstacle hindering him. He was once driven to nearly take Hinata's life, showcasing the darkness within him front and center. Despite witnessing this dark side, Hinata's unwavering kindness towards him rendered him unworthy of her affection. This was suddenly becoming all too complicated when his brains thought back to Nenma. Perhaps it's time he had a conversation with him, because why the fuck did Nenma know of a secret passageway that leads to her room?

And thus, this is how things normally ended up, when he was around Sakura. He'd set grand plans and make internal proclamations. His mind going on overdrive over fucking emotions. Setting high and unachievable goals.

But then night swiftly approached. With his Hokage cloak draped over his shoulders, he exuded an air of patience as he returned home for the night. Then he found himself taking a bath in a hot spring, before lying in bed, preoccupied with his primary concerns and responsibilities toward the village. Consequently, his conversation with Nenma took a backseat. He decided to postpone the confrontation until a more feasible time; specifically, after they completed their mission at the Moon Village.

Ultimately, Sasuke unironically blamed the nature of his hectic schedule. He fooled himself into believing that his responsibilities hindered his ability to make ample preparations. Before he knew it, the day of the event had already arrived, and he had not asked Hinata out.

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Lanterns adorned the trees, casting a warm and inviting glow over the meticulously manicured lawns. Guests from far and wide arrived in their finest, yet modest attire and silent luxury. Their footsteps mingled with the gentle rustling of leaves. The atmosphere was abuzz with laughter and chatter as people strolled around, exchanging greetings and well wishes to Neji Hyuga and his fiance.

Among the crowd, Neji, stood tall and proud, accepting the congratulations of well-wishers. His engagement to Sasuke's cousin had brought immense joy and unity to both families. The engagement was a significant event that would strengthen the bonds between the two clans, or so they say. But Kyuubi's appearance, as it hung around Neji's shoulder, gave rise to speculation that Neji Hyuga might be next in line.

But their Hokage didn't seem to mind Kyuubi's attention being elsewhere, as he was seen mingling with the guests. His piercing onyx eyes scanned the gathering. Despite his usual serious demeanor, a hint of happiness played at the corners of his lips. The engagement of his cousin brought a sense of warmth and togetherness to the Uchiha clan, a reminder of the strength that lay in their familial ties. And speaking of ties, Shisui and another group of family members wouldn't seem to leave Sakura alone. Bored and anxious, Sasuke made a decision to approach Sakura before his parents attempt to introduce him to someone.

Sakura's gaze darted towards him as he neared, her eyes briefly flashing with a hint of hesitance. Yet, instead of the expected welcoming smile, she appeared to subtly shoo him away with the mere movement of her expressive eyes, which attemped to encourage him not to run away.

"Go dance with her," her eyes seemed to say.

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"It's because I'm invested, and I want to see you happy, that I'm being this way. Sasuke, do not run away."

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Hypocrite. Doesn't want to date, but is pushing him towards someone. What did she want? To live vicariously through him? Alright. Fuck it. But he's going to have so much fun if it's ever Sakura's turn. He tucked away all the jokes he had instore for her.

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Hinata had been in the presence of her father, when he approached her and extended his hand, a silent invitation to join him amidst the crowd already lost in the rhythm of the dance. She hesitated for a moment, her fingers hovering over his palm before she finally accepted.

As they fell into step with the rest of the dancers, Hinata's initial reservations disappeared. The rest of the world faded away, leaving only their connection in focus as she was guided by the gentle pressure of his hand. She mirrored his movements, the dance, a delicate combination of flowing steps and intricate hand gestures.

Sasuke's gaze lingered on Hinata, his eyes tracing the gentle curve of her cheek and the soft fall of her hair. At this moment, away from the demands of their ninja missions, she seemed transformed. The steely resolve that usually defined her was replaced by a serene vulnerability that tugged at his heartstrings. Sasuke couldn't help but feel a pang of regret for the countless moments he had missed due to his single-minded pursuit of mission success. Now, standing before her, he realized that there was so much more, and that he too wanted to get to know her.

And so, In this rare and fleeting moment, he allowed himself to appreciate the beauty that lay beyond the surface. Her serene presence, so different from her usual mission-focused demeanor, stirred something deep within him—a spark of longing and a desire to bridge the gap that kept closing between them. But this night wasn't about him. Doing something so thoughtlessly would remove all the attention that was focused on their cousin's night.

The dance came to a graceful end, when Sasuke and Hinata gently pulled away from each other. As the music ceased its melodic tune, Sasuke gracefully guided Hinata over to where Sakura stood. With a warm smile on his face, Sasuke approached Sakura, who was engaged in conversation with other guests. Tapping her shoulder lightly to capture her attention, he turned to Hinata, as if to present her to his best friend.

"Sakura, I'd like you to meet Hinata. Hinata, this is Sakura."

Sakura turned toward Hinata, her eyes widening slightly in surprise and curiosity. As Sakura examined her more closely, she realized that Hinata bore a striking resemblance to the girl she had accidentally bumped into the other day. A sudden realization dawned upon her, prompting her to exclaim, "Wait, I know you! This world sure is small. Sasuke wouldn't shut up about you."

Sasuke froze as Shisui's head snapped their way.

As Sakura's words continued to echo in the air, Sasuke's mind raced. He replayed the instances where he had inadvertently let slip his thoughts about Hinata. The dreams he had about her, the fleeting expressions of longing he had successfully masked – they all now seemed like glaring neon signs declaring his secret feelings. Get it together, all Sakura had mentioned was that he had talked about her…

Frustration mingled with his embarrassment as Sasuke grappled with the consequences of Sakura's revelation. He cleared his throat, carrying on as though he wasn't affected.

"Ahem. Sakura is my closest friend. When we were young my parents often had business with her father, so we became close,"

Sakura nudged him with her elbow. "Hey, it sounds like you're reducing our status to that of childhood friends."

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"...Only those close to me get to know that sort of thing."

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Hinata offered Sakura a smile, attempting to remain engaged despite the growing number of Sasuke's family members encircling Sakura and teasing her in various ways. It was obvious Sakura was not only Sasuke's closest friend, but also essentially accepted by Sasuke's family. This must've been what Nenma was trying to warn her about.

Looking at them now, the two looked perfect together.

"Hey, are you feeling okay?" Sakura asked, out of concern. "Sasuke, what kind of date are you, you should probably get her some water or take her on a walk for some fresh air." Sakura ordered him around with her slender hands firmly placed on each side of her hips.

"I'm fine-"

Wait what?

Why were they calling her Sasuke's date…?

Hinata stole a glance at Shisui, and the rest of the group, who seemed torn between amusement and sympathy. Even Itachi, their ever-composed one, couldn't conceal a hint of a knowing smile as he had strolled over with his girlfriend. As he met their eyes, Sasuke's embarrassment intensified, and he longed to escape this awkward predicament.

After gathering his scattered thoughts, a glimmer of gratitude flickered within Sasuke. While Sakura's unintended disclosure had left him red-faced and exposed, it was better not to address it because it seemed Hinata believed they, or rather, he was simply being teased.

"You guys are the worst," Sasuke said lightheartedly to the situation, as he guided Hinata away from their relentless intentions.

"Later, Sasuke-kun!" Sakura called out after him playfully. "Oh, and Hinata, it's so nice to see you again!"

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Beneath the moon's gentle radiance, Hinata and Sasuke embarked on a stroll to a tranquil spot, their steps creating a soft rhythm in the hushed environment away from the festivities. As they walked, curiosity about her personal life befell him. In a rare moment of vulnerability, Sasuke turned to Hinata, a question lingering on his lips that he had never dared to ask before. He had wanted to know about her relationship with Nenma, because they shared a bond that Sasuke, despite his keen perception, struggled to comprehend fully. A closeness that transcended the conventional boundaries of friendship. A connection that appeared deeper and more intimate than anything he had experienced before with Sakura.

"Hinata," he began, his voice tinged with a hint of uncertainty, "I guess I've never really asked... have you ever been in a relationship or had a boyfriend before?"

Hinata's heart skipped a beat at the unexpected inquiry. The truth was, she had always admired her cousin from afar and his intensity and unwavering determination captivated her. But the thought of Neji and her, she could never…

But after she got assigned to a role, and Anko's lessons began to take a toll, she involved Nenma in taking part in certain behaviors that perhaps weren't normal. Thinking of the things she began to do as a teenager, it was recently that she saw that life as a Shinobi wasn't normal.

She wasn't allowed to be a young girl.

"I've never been in a real relationship," she confessed softly, her voice carrying a hint of sadness. "But I've always wondered... what it would be like to share something special with someone." Sasuke's gaze softened as he absorbed her words. A flicker of understanding seemed to cross his features as if he glimpsed the depth of her emotions.

"I see," he murmured, his tone tinged with a touch of regret. With a sigh, he turned his head away from Hinata. "Please, don't let Sakura's actions, or the actions of my family get to you," he muttered. "They have a habit of trying to get under my skin whenever the opportunity presents itself. It's nothing personal."

Nothing personal, he says. Hinata could tell he was belying the anger he harbored for some undisclosed reason. Had she made him mad somehow?

"Sakura seems like a very nice person." She said, in an attempt to save the conversation.

"She is." he muttered, his voice tinged with resignation.

"Come, let's return swiftly before Onii-sama succumbs to a cardiac event if he sees me missing." With these words, she led the way back to the festivities, and she couldn't shake the feeling that she had messed up somehow.

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The next day, Sasuke found himself hungover, as he tried to explain to Sakura what happened and why they hadn't really talked for the rest of the night.

"I didn't know what to say, after she denied it…" Sasuke muttered as he rested his chin in his hand, his onyx eyes gazing thoughtfully at the distant figures mingling about outside the Hokage window.

However, Sakura, sitting at a distance, took a sip of water from her glass and turned her understanding gaze away from the picturesque painting hanging on the wall in front of her. This person, Hinata Hyuga, was quite the seductress, it seemed. Or maybe she was being biased after listening to Sasuke's rant.

A faint blush dusted his cheeks as he continued to avert his attention. He seemed to have it pretty bad. She doubted he wanted her to jump in agreement or attempt any form of character assassination.

Sakura grinned.

"Sasuke, are you a virgin?"

"I hate you for even asking. And you call yourself my friend."

She hummed. "I'm surprised you're not trying to downplay this. But remember, I may not be a ninja, but I have keen observational skills, and I've noticed things about you over the years. But what is there to be scared of? Last time I checked you weren't so misogynist to think every person you're fated to meet is just waiting around to be found. Or are you scared because you lack experience?"

"Like I said, That's not it."

"Then you haven't told me everything. So spill."

Sasuke rose from his chair, his Sharingan eyes fixed on Sakura with an intensity that made her feel concerned. She kept quiet as he recounted something that happened the order day, how Nenma likes to shove it in his face how close he is with her.

"He knew of a secret passageway to her fucking room. He's the fucking worst."

She sighed. "I've been here for a week and I'm already tired of hearing Nenma this, Nenma that. Can you please make up your mind on whether he's your friend or not? Just ask him what happened."

Sasuke shifted his position, leaning against the wall as myriad of emotions swirled within him—he began to sober up even more. What was he doing? He should be focusing on researching the Moon Village and getting to know the key players he'll like meet there soon. It was like being around Sakura made him turn into this hopeless, regular person with insignificant problems, because she was one of the only few that would force him into deep introspection.

But he had spent enough time dallying around. It was time to bury himself in work and responsibility so he won't have to think about this ever again.

"Sakura, thank you for letting me vent. But I'm fine now."

"No problem," She rose up from her seat and stared outside. "I'll be around for a few more days, so don't be a stranger, ne? And good luck. Wish I could stick around and help you until the end,"

"I'm not so selfish that I'd keep you away from your family and friends."

Sakura sent him a smile, wishing him the best, hoping that the next time they met, it wouldn't be because of a heartbreak.

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I think I hinted it enough that Hinata was basically trained by Anko, and learned at a young age to seduce people during her missions. This left her with an impression that led to her making mistakes when she was younger. Hence, she has a past with Nenma. But she sees how those things were wrong, and so she always denies that there was something there. She doesn't stop to think that the Shinobi world failed her, and blames herself for basically having a sexual relationship with her bestfriend in the past.

Outline for writing this chapter:

Sakura is introduced because trope reasons.

Sasuke beings to see Nenma as a threat (But it's a one-sided threat because Nenma supports Hinata's feelings and interest in Sasuke.)

Meanwhile, Nenma is just offscreen minding his business and living his life while waiting to leave on their next mission. In fact, he thought he was being a bro when he had revealed the secret passage to Sasuke. So in Nenma's mind, Sasuke is cool with him and they're buddies.

Hinata becomes jealous when she finds out there's another girl being close to Sasuke, because who wouldn't be jealous at someone who's so chill and just there for the good vibes.

Sakura doesn't know Nenma or Hinata, so is hard for her to offer any real insight as Sasuke becomes melodramatic. Poor girl can only watch, which only adds to her validating the reason she stays single.

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Then chapter, it's time to get out of this village

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Thank you for the review, Purple blue eyes. I know I haven't been consistant in updates, but that's just life lol