Upload Date: 04/22/2024

Obligatory statement that these characters are not and will not be mine.

Chapter 14 – Offer of Friendship

Sakura hummed as she read over the books at her desk, the light from the candle flickering every so often. The hospital was quiet for once as the dusk gave way to darkness, most patients already asleep as the evening nurses made their rounds.

She turned the pages of the old book if anything caught her interest, she noted in on a separate piece of parchment. There were definitely a couple of items that were incoherent to her, and lots of what she needed to ask someone who had been alive during that timeframe. But she could not just ask anybody, it needed to be someone she could trust-

"Sakura? You're still here?"

She jumped, having been too distracted to notice the new arrival and glanced up at her superior.

"I am sorry Miss Rin. I was doing some research and lost track of time I suppose."

The older woman tilted her head, her eyes a mixture of understanding and curiosity.

"Research? On new medical techniques?"

"Not exactly," Sakura admitted and the wheels in her head started turning, "Can I ask you a personal question?"

"Anything my dear."

"Did you happen to meet Lord Fourth's partner?"

At that Rin looked quickly over her back and shut the door to Sakura's office. "Is this about Naruto? Kakashi let me know that Lady Fifth had told him the truth."

"It is. I need more clues as to his mother's identity. Kakashi Sensei was not able to tell me much about her ancestry other than she was brought as a young child to the Leaf. Did you ever meet her?"

"Once or twice," Rin recalled, her eyes growing hazy with the memory, "She would make us meals for our missions. I remember her being all smiles and full of strong emotions. Naruto…he reminds me of her quite a bit, what little I knew of her anyway," she spoke fondly, a smile crossing her face, "Minato Sensei kept any interactions between us and her very minimal. But during my medical ninjutsu trainings with Lady Fifth many years ago now, she did mention in passing that her grandmother was an Uzumaki," Rin answered, "I would ask her for specific details."

Sakura pursed her lips, jotting down the note quickly in her notes. "I had no idea. Thank you for the tip, Miss Rin."

"Of course. Happy to help, but you should really head home now. You will not be able to enjoy tomorrow at the fullest."

Sakura smiled. "Right. I shall take my leave then."

She gathered her things in her small bag and went downstairs to the main lobby. She was ruffling through her bag, ensuring that she had not forgotten anything when she froze in place.

He was there, at the main desk, picking up a small roll of parchment, no doubt the next dates of his brother's treatments with Lady Tsunade.

As if sensing her presence, he looked up and she could immediately tell that he was as shocked to see her as she was.

He recovered much more quickly than she, however and walked towards her, the candles from the main lobby barely illuminating his face.

"Sakura…" was all he said and she felt a lump in her throat.

The last time they had run into each other he'd called her Miss Haruno. Why oh why couldn't he keep the same distant greeting?

She had been doing so good at avoiding him ever since that meeting on her first day back in town over a month ago. She figured she would avoid him forever if it took even if it meant working to the bone, but even that was not enough clearly.

Sakura grabbed her bag a little tighter. "Good evening, Lord Sasuke."

The formality burned in the air between him and his chest ached at the distance. "There's no need for formality between us."

"Yes, there is." Sakura contested.

And that was all it took for buried memories to rise to the surface for him. And he could tell that they were in her mind too.

He wanted to speak, apologize, say anything to reestablish the relationship he had had with her once before, the closeness they had developed as teammates, and not the fugue hormonal encounter he had had with her.

But he was unable to voice anything and like everything that Sasuke hated, he dug deep inside to repress as much of it as possible.

"We will always be teammates. So, unless you plan on calling Naruto by his surname all the time, call me Sasuke."

She rolled her eyes and was pleased when she saw his eye twitch in annoyance. "I think I will pass on that formal custom. He and I are not from clans remember?"

"He might be."

Sakura had no retort for that and chose to shrug, refusing to acknowledge that he was probably right. "Perhaps. I will have a better answer for him once I get through the books I have."

His dark eyes looked down at her bag and at her uniform. "Were you heading home?"

"I was, before I ended up taking up too much of your time." Sakura confirmed, bowing, "I really must get going."

"I'll walk you home." He did not phrase it as a suggestion and Sakura could tell by his expression that 'no' would not be a possibility.

She sighed in reluctant acceptance. "Thank you."

Sasuke did not offer his arm and Sakura was perfectly content with that. Physical contact was nothing something either of them needed right now.

Especially not considering how the last time they had touched ended.

She gritted her teeth as she tried to brush away memories that made her whole-body flush and instead readjusted her bag.

"Do you want me to carry that?"

"No, it's fine." It was a distraction from his presence. It was not heavy at all to her; her hands were just uneasy and it was a relief to move them around by holding the bag.

They were both silent as they walked through the town, most businesses finishing their closing as the moon rose higher into the sky.

And despite the silence both of them found it comforting, easy almost.

So, when they approached Sakura's modest home, they were slightly less on edge than they had been.

"Thank you for walking me home." Sakura said softly, readjusting her bag once more and allowed herself to gaze into his dark eyes.

When they had met with Sai, it had been easier to form a wall between them, something tangible to keep them away. There was nothing of the sort now so when Sasuke stepped forward Sakura's heart began to stutter.

Sasuke stared at her, struggling again to find the will to speak.

The comforting silence from before had turned suffocating as they both stared at each other. Green meeting black in a desperate show of defiance, that neither one was willing to lose.

"It was no trouble, Miss Haruno," Sasuke finally said, "Have a restful evening."

He had yielded, if only for tonight.

Sasuke turned quickly and left, his coat flipping in the wind behind him as he walked towards his home.

Sakura watched him go and turned back to go inside her home, closing the door behind her as she closed her eyes and breathed deeply.

She should have left the hospital on time.

The door slammed a little louder than usual throughout the mostly empty home.

Naruto raised his eyebrows as his friend arrived, his characteristic moodiness causing both him and Itachi to look curiously at each other.

"Brother? Is something wrong?"

"Nothing." He answered, trough gritted teeth.

"You just enjoy being angry all the time?" Naruto asked mockingly, causing Itachi to chuckle, struggling to disguise it as a cough while Izumi laughed outright, not caring to tease her little brother-in-law.

Sasuke glowered at them dropping the parchment on Itachi's desk and leaving. He rose through the stairs as he disappeared from their sight.

"Not even a 'good evening' from that boy." Izumi muttered in clear displeasure.

"Well…he is in a much more irritable mood than usual. I wonder why that is." Itachi pondered, opening the parchment.

"It seems that way." Naruto commented, the dark mood from Sasuke being a little more aggressive than normal.

He wondered too. And briefly considered that perhaps Sasuke had run into someone that ticked him off.

Or maybe, it was the opposite.

He wanted his dear friends to actually be friends again. And it pained him to have to be the intermediary when frankly he had no desire to ever be stuck between the two of them in any sort of manner.

Naruto was in deep thought thinking about his teammates when Izumi brought him out of his mind.

"Did you bring adequate attire?" Izumi asked suddenly, lowering her eyes as she looked down at him.

Naruto blanched and looked down at his plain and slightly worn coat. "Will this not do?"

Itachi and Izumi glanced at each other and she tried to hide her laughter. "If you accompany me to the seamstress tomorrow, we can buy something already made for you to wear." she said.

Naruto groaned.

He hated formal events.

The eventful night was finally upon them.

Naruto was adjusting his tight collar as he peered out the window.

"Why do you keep doing that?" Sakura asked, raising an eyebrow at him.

"Needed to see if we were there yet." Naruto complained, letting go of his collar.

"Are you nervous?" she asked, immediately recognizing his telltale signs of discomfort.

He sighed in defeat. "You know I am. I'm no good at events like these."

"Neither am I," she admitted as she looked out of the window herself, "I can hardly imagine the number of preparations that the Hyuuga family and Tenten had to go through."

Hinata briefly appeared in his mind and Naruto paused at realizing this would be the very first time he was ever in their home.

Strange, how he had known her for years and was just now learning more about her.

The carriage finally stopped and Naruto could hardly wait to escape the cramped carriage as he helped Sakura down. He looked ahead and saw that Sasuke's carriage had already arrived, Itachi and Izumi flanking him as both he and Sakura joined the Uchiha's.

He did not miss that Sakura purposefully placed herself as far away from Sasuke as she could.

They entered the Hyuuga home, the guards at the entrance waving them through the main gate as they entered the grand hallway where they nodded and gave courteous hellos to people in the crowd.

For once Naruto was glad that the Uchihas were so reserved, as they were able to get through the crowd without much fanfare.

The Hyuuga grand hall was decorated exquisitely with beautiful gold and wooden architecture and wondrous paintings, the large chandelier above the room glinting as the crystals shone. Numerous flowers adorned the railings of the balcony and the head table. The band was playing a beautiful song as it rang to the blissful tune.

The appearance of the home caused Naruto to stare bluntly around him, amazed as the grandeur as he imagined just how much each and every item was worth.

It brought him the cold realization that even though he had realized the difference between civilians and nobility, the difference was starkly evident in homes like these.

Servants were weaving their way through the crowd as they delivered drinks and other items, everyone to remain standing until the formal presentation was complete.

"Lord Uchiha, Lady Uchiha, a pleasure to see you." A blonde woman spoke loudly, causing several heads to turn in their direction. Beside him he could feel Sakura cringe as she gripped his arm with more force.

She curtsied at them and turned to face Sasuke, who maintained his expression despite her loud outburst. "Lord Sasuke."

"A pleasure Lady Ino." Izumi and Itachi replied, their voices in unison as Sasuke merely nodded in acknowledgement while Naruto was finally able to recognize her.

She closed her fan shut and winked at Sakura as she embraced her. "Forehead you look absolutely gorgeous for once. That is really your color."

"Must you be so loud Ino?" Sakura pleaded, returning Ino's embrace shakily. "Naruto and I were trying to not cause so much attention."

"Naruto?" At this she turned towards him, her eyes widening. "I did not even recognize you! Well, aren't you the handsome gentleman!"

"You look very nice Ino," Naruto responded lamely, still uncertain of her character until she rolled her eyes.

"Lady Ino," she grumbled, "And I was going for stunning this evening, but I do appreciate your honesty I suppose."

That was extremely reassuring. He recalled her as bossy, loud, and deviously smart, but not outwardly unkind. She had not changed one bit and he was thankful for that.

"No need to be humble. Every man here is looking at you." Sakura replied, causing Ino to smile again as she grinned at her friend.

"Well thank you for the reassurance, my dear" Ino turned towards Naruto and curtsied, "I expect a formal dance invitation from you later. I am very curious about what you have been up to."

"Oh, I am not sure you would be interested in my adventures." Naruto commented, his shoulders relaxing as Sakura gave him a smile.

The music shifted slightly and a hush fell over the hall. Ino darted away to rejoin her family while Naruto and Sakura discreetly tried to bury themselves in a corner away from the crowd.

Sasuke joined them mere moments later, the pleasantries having become exhausting already and stood on Naruto's other side as the murmurs quieted down.

Her father and Uncle Hizashi were examining Neji's appearance. He had donned the most elegant robes that he had, courtesy of his father and he looked stunningly handsome. Tonight, he would not only be presenting his formal engagement to Tenten, or rather Lady Tenten as she townsfolk would call her, but he would also assume the mantle of branch leader and begin to work formally alongside her father.

Today, he would become Lord Neji.

Hinata was incredibly happy for her cousin's fortune. He would be able to marry a civilian outside of the family for what surely was one of very few instances in their family line. She was truly happy for him, however it only served to highlight that she would not be given the same kindness and grace that her cousin would be given.

It does not matter anyway, Hinata thought sadly, burying thoughts of him away. Tonight was not about her. It was about Neji and Tenten.

"Miss Tenten is ready for the presentation." Hanabi gushed as she walked into the room, signaling to Hinata to come with her.

Her father gestured towards Hinata and Hanabi and they exited quickly to walk into the room where Tenten was.

Neji stared straight ahead, numb to the beautiful music playing distantly in the grand hall and felt his uncle and father grab onto his arms as they began to lead him. The noise grew louder as they could all hear the sounds from the band below the balcony.

"Son?"

Neji blinked as he saw his father's eyes stare back at him. "Sorry father, I wasn't listening."

Hizashi rested his hand on Neji's shoulder. "It's almost time now. Are you ready?"

Neji took a deep breath and nodded. "I am ready father."

His uncle grabbed his arm, while his father grabbed the other and awaited the music to shift.

As members of the distinguished family, they were not making an entrance through the normal entryway instead opting for the more ostentatious balcony and awaited their cue to descend.

In the other room Tenten gulped loudly, dress swaying as she began to walked down the hallway, searching from an opening to look below into the crowd. "How many people are here?"

Both Hanabi and Hinata glanced at each other, wondering if a white lie was best.

"Quite a few. But mostly you and Neji's friends and our family of course," Hinata assured her, holding her hand more strongly. "Just look at them."

"I'm scared I'll fall."

"That's why you have us at your side, cousin." Hanabi answered cheekily, leaning against Tenten in reassurance.

Tenten smiled weakly. The ostentatious displays of nobility were foreign to her. She had been educated on them by both Hinata and Hanabi, but the reality was much more grueling.

The music changed pitch and Hanabi and Hinata were the first to descend, both wrapping their arms around Tenten's as they walked slowly down the balcony, the three of them aware that Neji would soon follow.

Hinata could feel the stares of everyone as the ballroom went silent, save the soft notes of music from the band. For once she was not nervous, as she knew that they were not here for her presence, but for her cousin's. She was not the main attraction for the evening.

Tenten looked royal tonight. She had chosen the burgundy and white silks herself, upon much insistence from the Hyuuga sisters. The jewels she wore were gifts from her family with the headpiece being something that both Hanabi and Hinata had gifted for her.

Hinata could see the familiar faces in the crowd looking in awe at the future Lady Tenten and she took advantage that no one's eyes were directly on her to skim the crowd to see who was there.

Lord Shino, heir to the noble Aburame clan was in a corner of the hall, with his beloved mother and father at his sides, his trademark dark bifocals making her unable to see his expression.

She did however, see his mouth twitch slightly in his version of a smile and she smiled back, grateful her teammate was there for support.

Lord Kiba was accompanied by his mother and sister in the middle of the hall and he wasted no time in giving her a wolfish grin that instantly made any nervousness disappear.

Her two dear teammates had been part of her life for as long as she could remember. They had come to offer help and support when she had returned from Kiri with Kiba swearing to involve himself in the hunt for the pirates if necessary.

Needless to say, she had dissuaded him almost immediately not eager for her friends to fall into any problems with either the Kiri government or less noble pirates.

There were other familiar faces in the crowd too. Rock Lee, the eccentric third teammate of Tenten and Neji had made an appearance, looking quite dashing in a simple green ensemble coat, sporting shorter hair as tears welled up in his eyes as he stood next to Gai Sensei in an equally bright green coat.

There were numerous others, the Naras, the Sarutobis, the Yamanaka's, the Akimichis, and their faces eventually blurred, but then suddenly, Hinata saw him and she was able to steady her eyes once more.

Huddled in a dark corner, next to his teammates was Naruto Uzumaki.

He was dressed elegantly tonight in a long orange tunic coat, a white shirt with a short collar, and dark trousers.

She had to swallow a lump in her throat as their eyes met, his blue eyes boring into hers as he did not break his gaze from her, holding her steady, captivating hers into a lull before a small smile crossed his face.

He looked dashing. She hoped that no one had noticed her ogling him.

Jarring her eyes away from him, she noticed that his former teammate had accompanied him, her arm casually around his as she sported a red dress that made her look beautiful. Though happy to see her friend, Hinata was unable to fully stop the twinge of jealousy that peeked out of her.

She was able to be so close to him without attracting any stares at all. Hinata hated the way that made her feel, especially when it was so clearly unfounded.

They had finally reached the end of the stairs and Hanabi and Hinata bowed at Tenten and then at the crowd as the next trio of the Hyuuga family began their descent.

Uncle Hizashi and her father walked on either side of Neji, the three of them forming an illusion of one man as their movements synced up perfectly, none of them appearing to blink as they descended the stairs. Hinata imagined that most in the crowd could not tell which of the elder Hyuugas was her father.

But her uncle was more nervous than her father, as she saw his arm wrapped tightly around Neji and a wavering smile on his face that he was trying to hide for the sake of tradition.

They arrived at the bottom of the stairs where they bowed at Neji and Tenten and then at the crowd, before Neji took Tenten in his arms, wide smiles illuminating them both before waving at the band to stop playing, and facing the crowd.

"I would like to personally thank everyone for joining us tonight in celebration of our engagement. My family could not be happier as you join us in the formal countdown to our wedding." Neji spoke, his deep voice projecting through the hall. He gently nudged Tenten and she gulped in nervousness as she faced the crowd.

"I want to echo Lord Neji's sentiments," she spoke, most in the crowd smiling as they heard Neji's new official title, "We are truly happy that everyone has joined us. And now we can begin the feast and ball!" she rushed, all too eager to have the eyes of the crowd off her.

On cue the band immediately started bringing forth lively music that heightened the pleasant mood ringing through the hall.

As was custom, the guests stopped by the main table to offer their congratulations to the family prior to being seated at their tables.

Hinata and her family welcomed the Fifth Hokage and her entourage, Gai Sensei and Mr. Lee, the Sarutobi family and Kurenai Sensei, as well as the Yamanakas among others. For a time, it was never-ending and seemed like it would drag on forever until the Uchihas came to offer their congratulations.

Lord and Lady Uchiha bowed at them; their appearance surprising to Hinata. It had been quite some time since they had gone to a ball or public event together.

Lord Uchiha looks better. I'm glad that he's able to go out in public again, Hinata thought looking up at the handsome head of the family.

"A pleasure to see you all Lords Hyuuga, Hizashi, and Neji, and Ladies Hinata and Hanabi" Lord Uchiha started, "And Lady Tenten, a pleasure to see you become part of the Hyuuga clan. My family offers our congratulations on your engagement celebration and new titleship of Lord Neji."

"The honor is ours Lord Uchiha," her father pronounced, "Please enjoy the celebrations tonight and enjoy your evening with your wife and family."

Lord Uchiha and Lady Izumi bowed again, removing themselves and Lord Sasuke appeared before the Hyuugas, bowing at the family, and offering a brief congratulations to the couple on their engagement before walking away.

Sakura and Naruto appeared, arm-in-arm and Hinata again felt the pit in her stomach grow larger.

"Neji, Tenten, I give you both my congratulations on your engagement." Naruto voiced, Sakura gripping his hand tightly as he realized his fault.

Too late he realized he had not used any of their titles and he felt himself sink into the ground.

Sakura gave her congratulations while Naruto decided to remain silent for fear of accidentally insulting the Hyuugas again.

"Thank you both! Neji and I truly appreciate it." Tenten answered, her smile wide. "It's great to see you after all this time." She had rescued him, by not using titles herself and as little as Naruto was acquainted with Tenten he was already pleased that Neji had picked someone down-to-earth as his wife.

"We thank you for your presence this evening." Hinata pronounced, noticing the look of relief on Naruto's face.

She did not balk at his obvious discomfort. There were many rules in the way esteemed families spoke to one another and while Hinata did not believe Naruto was ignorant, she knew that he would appreciate her help in this situation.

Naruto thought he would be able to get away quickly until both Lord Hyuuga and Lord Hizashi stood up from the table, for the first time that evening. They bowed simultaneously, causing the entire table and some of the crowd to hush.

"Miss Haruno and Mr. Uzumaki, please allow me to express my deep gratitude in person for your invaluable help with the…incident our family had earlier this year." Lord Hyuuga spoke, his voice wavering slightly, shocking everybody at the table to their core.

Upon seeing the heads of the main and branch families stand, the rest of the table stood and bowed as well, Hinata making sure she shot both of them a smile so that they knew this was a good thing and not another set of empty words.

"Allow me to express the same. Your support during my family's time in Kiri was invaluable." Lord Hizashi started; his voice shaky with emotion.

Sakura spoke up first. "It was truly a case of being at the right place at the right time. We are grateful that your entire family was able to return home."

"If there is anything we can do to properly thank you for your assistance, just name the price." Lord Hyuuga offered.

Naruto gritted his teeth at the cavalier monetary offer and was unable to keep his mouth shut. "If you really want to offer anything, give it to the hospital or orphanage instead. I am sure they could use it."

At this Hizashi smiled, eyes crinkling in amusement as Hinata nodded in solemn agreement.

"Indeed." Lord Hyuuga replied and nodded to Naruto as he stared him down.

Deciding to spare himself further embarrassment he and Sakura bowed at the table and hastily retreated.

He had not been able to really look at any of Hinata's relatives for very long while he was in front of their table.

The instant he had looked at Hinata he just wanted to keep looking at her, perhaps because she steadied him or perhaps because her eyes were the only ones he could count on.

Either way, he hoped he had not made too much a fool of himself in front of the Hyuugas. Sakura had assured him that even if he had slighted them, they were not the type to cause a scandal.

After that Naruto kept his eyes as far away from the Hyuuga table as he could, but he occasionally caught glimpses of Hinata dancing, being twirled by Shino or Kiba. As her former teammates, he supposed that they were probably some of the men she frequently danced with.

His wandering eyes had watched her move in her pretty dark blue dress as she danced with them. Her hair was pulled up, with a few pieces loose in the front and the dress itself was filled with jewels and was probably made of silks that could buy his life a hundred times over.

She looked stunning and happy as she laughed at something Kiba said and he clenched his fist.

The sight made something turn in his gut, but he did not quite know what it was.

Meanwhile, Izumi and Itachi danced slowly in each other's arms, relaxed, and enjoying the music as their shoulders bumped ever so often as they gossiped amongst themselves. They were every bit the carefree couple and Sasuke looked on, content to staying seated for the rest of the night. He looked positively bored.

Ino suddenly popped into his field of vision and Naruto immediately grimaced at her overjoyed expression.

"Are you going to ask me to dance now?"

"Must I?" Naruto replied, groaning slightly as Sakura guffawed behind her fan. Sasuke's expression did not shift, but Naruto could tell he was enjoying Naruto's discomfort.

Ino pursed her lips. "Must you be so rude?"

He was about to say he did not care about being rude when something finally clicked for him.

The Yamanakas were extremely powerful, not a noble family, but they had adequate resources at their disposal. It may even come in handy one day.

"Don't say I didn't warn you." Naruto remarked, taking her hand in his. He already disliked the heavy atmosphere on the dance floor and he racked his brain trying to remember the dance steps. The unfamiliar contact was already tearing at his gut and the heavy perfume she wore was drowning his senses as he wrinkled his nose.

Not two steps into the song, he stepped on Ino's foot and she glowered at him.

"I sure hope your business is better than your dancing." She remarked.

"Much better." He countered and Ino narrowed her eyes.

"What is it you do anyway?"

"I'm a merchant. I handle trades in hand-crafted goods, furs, spices, jewels, a bit of everything across the Five Nations." Naruto responded.

The answer was well-rehearsed and somewhat true.

"Interesting," she muttered slowly and winced as he stepped again on her foot, "You have to stop doing that."

"Sorry."

"Really Naruto, did no one teach you to dance?"

"You expected Pervy Sage to teach me anything remotely close to etiquette?"

At this Ino laughed, and swatted him playfully. "I suppose not. Pity, you have grown up handsomely otherwise."

At that Naruto smiled, his cheeks slightly pink. "The same could be said for you, why is it that you are not married?"

"The same reason you're not I suppose," Ino answered winking at him, "Perhaps we're just not meant for that life."

He couldn't agree more.

The Hyuuga table was unusually animated as Hinata returned from her dance with Shino, with her father looking at her approvingly.

"Are you interested in Lord Shino, Hinata?" he asked bluntly, causing Neji and Tenten to chew through their food slower than usual, both eager to hear Lord Hyuuga's quite hilarious musings.

Hinata merely shook her head. "No father."

"He seemed quite interested in you, dear." Uncle Hizashi spoke, causing Tenten to let out an undignified snort as she sipped her water.

"He's a beloved friend, but I am quite sure he doesn't look at me with those eyes," she clarified in amusement, "Besides I do believe another young lord is coming to this table now."

Lord Konohamaru held his head up high and Hinata elbowed Hanabi so that she could look up at him. She was delighted to find that her sister was slightly taken aback at his sudden presence.

"Lady Hanabi, may I have this dance?" he asked, Hinata noticing that his voice had deepened and was starting to look quite a bit like his late grandfather.

From the other side of the hallway, she could see Lord Sarutobi and Kurenai Sensei laughing together as they looked on.

Hanabi pursed her lips and looked at her sister and father. Hinata winked slyly at her while her father merely studied them, his gaze stern.

"I suppose a dance wouldn't hurt." Hanabi muttered softly, clearly embarrassed before taking Konohamaru's hand as a wide smile erupted across his face, as he pulled her into a dance.

"What a surprise!" Tenten commented, casing both Hizashi and Neji to chuckle.

"What do you think of him, father?" Hinata inquired, seeing the young pair begin to dance across the floor.

The table got quiet as Hiashi pondered his daughter's question.

"I would not be opposed," he said finally, wiping his mouth with a napkin. "He is from an excellent family, with a longstanding history of strength and wealth. From what I have heard he has excelled in the shinobi academy and is pursing the role of Hokage."

"He is also kind," Hinata spoke up, not missing the superficial way her father spoke of young Konohamaru, "Quite selfless and is well-regarded as never imposing his status amongst those of lower rank."

Lord Hyuuga lowered his eyes as he looked at his daughter, an incomprehensible expression crossing his face that Hinata could not decipher.

"I suppose that's true as well."

Sakura had been steadily ignoring Sasuke the whole time and preferred to talk with Izumi who had just returned from her dance.

"Miss Sakura?" She looked up at the voice, bewildered as he bowed at her.

"Lee!" she exclaimed as she stood up and embraced him. "It's been so long, how have you been?"

"Very well," he answered enthusiastically. "I was hoping we discuss what we've been up to with a dance?"

At that Sakura laughed and nodded, "Of course. Lead the way."

Lee led her on the floor spun her around enthusiastically not caring about the formal dancers around them as Sasuke watched on.

Her hair was loose and it swayed ever so slightly across her eyes and he watched Sakura laugh.

He allowed himself to appreciate her beauty for an instant before standing up, straightening his collar, and walked towards the Hyuuga table.

Hinata had been enjoying herself watching her sister and Lord Konohamaru dance when a hush fell over the table.

Sasuke Uchiha stood before them and everybody at the table was stunned.

"Lady Hinata, may I have this dance?" he asked, his tone polite and firm.

Everybody at the table was silent as Neji and Tenten looked from Sasuke to Hinata.

She was baffled. "I-I of course," she answered looking to her father, who stared intently at her as if her response was somehow inadequate, "It would be a pleasure, Lord Sasuke."

Sasuke pulled out the chair behind her, and led her by the hand towards the floor.

He wrapped his hand around her waist making her realize that this was probably the first time he had ever directly talked to her.

"This is a bit of a surprise." She spoke, realizing that he was making no effort to converse and his eyes flickered down towards her.

His movements were fine-tuned and controlled and he did look quite handsome tonight. She had not noticed it from far away, but up close she could see his hair fall over his eyes ever so slightly and his eyes looked endlessly dark.

"Is it?" he replied, and Hinata felt herself shrink.

Silence had never disturbed her, but he was curt and withdrawn, which did not go well at all with her introverted and shy nature. This was going to be a horrendously awkward dance set if every reply was short and disinterested.

"I can't recall a time where we've spoken two words to each other." Hinata retorted, the edge in her voice more apparent as her discomfort grew and Sasuke raised his eyebrow, a slow smirk crossing his face.

Oh, that's what had Sakura so enthralled. Hinata could see it now. It did not make it any less awkward.

"That didn't stop your father from sending my brother a letter letting us know that you wanted to marry."

Hinata bit her lip and turned away from him, the embarrassment flooding her face. "What does that matter to you?"

"Nothing really," Sasuke began eyeing his brother who was keeping a close watch on them both, "Just an observation."

"So, this is a ploy?"

"Perhaps."

Mind games were not something Hinata enjoyed. Less of all with someone who was undoubtedly much better at them than she was.

"I do not appreciate being used."

"Then consider this an offer."

"Of…?" Hinata trailed off, her heart racing as she hoped and hoped that he didn't say what she thought he would say.

Sasuke chuckled at her frightened expression, the first true emotion he had shown to her that night. "Friendship."

It just left her feeling more confused. "Friendship?"

He nodded again, his smirk disappearing. "Just friendship for now."

For now? Hinata racked her brain, struggling to understand the meaning behind those words.

What an enigma of a man.

The music slowed and they separated, bowing at each other cordially before Sasuke turned and left.

He had completed his duty in the eyes of his brother at least. Hopefully this would keep him at bay.

Sasuke noticed the other guests in the hall murmuring in hushed whispers to each other. Apparently, his dance with Lady Hinata had been quite the surprise event.

Of course it would be. He was the most eligible bachelor in Konoha and she, the lady. Undoubtedly this would spark rumors.

Perhaps if Itachi and the townsfolk continued seeing them that way, the pressure of marriage would lessen…for both of them.

Sasuke sat down at his table, feeling Naruto's curious gaze the entire time.

"What was that?" Naruto asked.

"It is called dancing. You can try it even with your two left feet." Sasuke drawled, making Naruto scowl.

"With Hinata Hyuuga?" His tone was almost accusatory. Interesting.

"Her family is hosting this ball. If you were less ignorant you could try inviting her to dance as well, and be a good guest." He replied.

Naruto grimaced, Sasuke's little excursion bothering him much more than Kiba or Shino's interactions with Hinata. And deep down inside he knew that Sasuke was not being serious, he knew it would be frowned upon if someone like him invited Hinata to dance.

That was reserved for those who had some kind of pride behind their name.

"It's a ball," Sasuke continued, contemplating Naruto as if reading his thoughts, "You have already danced with Lady Ino. One more lady will not cause a scandal."

"That's some shitty encouragement Sasuke."

"Hush. There are ladies present." Sasuke warned, smirking at his friend's choice of words.

The formality of noble families never ceased to make feel even more ignorant than he usually was. But he had been invited by both Neji and Hinata to this ball. And she was his friend after all. A new friend perhaps, but he enjoyed her company. And he would be labeled as everything, but a coward.

He stood up, ensuring his collar was fixed before heading towards her table.

She was smiling and talking with her family, so he noticed immediately when her lavender eyes widened at seeing him and Naruto barely had enough sense to bow.

"Lady Hinata," he spoke slowly, trying to do this correctly, "Will you do me the honor of a dance?"

She could not help the wide smile that crossed her face, barely glancing at her father who merely nodded slightly in approval. "O-Of course, Mr. Uzumaki."

Hinata let him lead her onto the floor, more than a dozen other couples dancing and laughing as they spun around the gloriously adorned room.

Naruto placed his hand lightly around her waist and gripped her hand in his as they stood together. It reminded her of that night on the beach where they had been close, just like this.

"Forgive me in advance. Ino said I was not good at this."

Hinata laughed and it sounded like bells to him, making him grin. "Follow my lead then." She responded gently.

He spent most time looking down at their feet and listening to Hinata's quick whispers as she guided when he should spin her and turn her.

It was easy following her, as she did not care about making turns slowly so that he would fully understand them. She did not care about having to remind him when to turn and step.

And most of all, she did not care for some of the stares of other guests which Naruto could feel prick at his back.

It was the first time the whole evening he had enjoyed himself.

The tension in Naruto's shoulders dissipated some. "Thank you for this. I do not spend much time in fancy balls."

"Just in taverns with your drunken crew?" Hinata teased, a coy smile spreading across her face.

Naruto was not sure what it was, perhaps the way the dress fit her so well or her sweet voice teasing him, but he felt his hold on her tighten as his eyes looked over her smiling face.

He chuckled as his warm eyes darkened, pulling her closely to him, causing her face to turn red almost instantly. "And being a rogue, don't forget that." He whispered, the deepness of his voice echoing against her ear, as his lips brushed them ever so slightly.

Her mind was in shambles as Naruto pulled away as quickly as he'd pulled her close and she felt her heart beat erratically, the sudden closeness catching her off-guard and unprepared. She had thought she was getting better at being in his presence without blushing, but his teasing was certainly new to her.

"Right," she responded not quite catching her breath yet, "Hard to forget."

Foolish, she thought as he smiled at her, blue eyes twinkling in mischief and she felt herself openly gaze at him. Foolish, foolish, foolish.

Only a foolish, stupid woman would look at this man as anything other than a friend, and a dangerous one at that, but it was far too late for her.

If possible, she loved him even more that she knew him better.

The music slowed and Naruto released her, both bowing at each other before Naruto thanked her for the dance and walked away.

By the time he had reached the Uchihas table, Sakura had returned and there was a glint in her eye.

"What?"

"Nothing," she answered, grabbing his hand, "But if you're in a dancing mood surely you were going to ask me out some time soon, right?"

Naruto cringed. "Naturally…"

He let her lead him to dance floor again and, in the background, he flashed a wild grin at Konohamaru as he saw him dancing again with Hinata's younger sister. The younger man unable to completely hide his joy.

"Naruto?"

"What?" He'd been spacing out watching the Hyuuga table and Sakura looked mildly perplexed.

"I asked if we could meet tomorrow to discuss the matter you entrusted to me."

"Right…of course."

He seemed distracted, but despite that he was significantly better at dancing, Sakura noticed. He had stepped on her only twice since they had started.

"Quite the new moves Hinata taught you huh?" Sakura teased and Naruto blinked as if just now realizing Sakura was still speaking to him.

He had not noticed that he was still following Hinata's instructions.

"Guess Hinata is a better teacher than I am." She continued with a laugh, winking at him as he spun her around, not effortlessly, but certainly better than with Ino.

"I suppose so." Naruto shrugged, his hand fidgeting at feeling Sakura's waist. It felt wrong, somewhat…

He saw in the corner of his eye Kiba once again approach Hinata's table and he clenched his jaw.

Sakura turned and looked back and pursed her lips as she watched Naruto closely. "Kiba seems to have taken a liking to Hinata. They make a nice pair don't you think?"

"Not really." Naruto replied, his eyes still focused on Hinata and Kiba.

He did not catch as a sly smile spread over Sakura's face that she quickly hid and said nothing else.

The song slowly ended and while Sakura walked back to their table Naruto stood on the floor a couple of seconds longer watching as Hinata and Kiba bowed and walked away from each other.

Instead of heading back to the Uchiha table he walked out of the ball into the main courtyard where there were fewer people. There, Naruto leaned against the cold wall and blinked as he realized that for the first time since he had met Hinata, her touch had not brought him discomfort tonight.

Since he had met Hinata, he had been quick to release her at times when her touch became too warm or too close and had felt relief at having some distance between them. Perhaps he had simply come to accept her as a friend and her touch would be like Sakura's but…

He was not sure what was happening with him. Prior to them dancing he had been able to distract himself somewhat, but after that he had kept his eyes on her and Sakura's hand in his had not felt quite right.

He had not felt relief at letting her go and for some reason the word friend felt bitter on his tongue.

Author's Note: Longest chapter yet! Thanks to all those who faved, followed, and reviewed. Your enthusiasm gives me strength. Now to recuperate and prepare the final chapters of the Return to Konoha Arc before diving into the Uzumaki relatives arc 😊.