I struggled with this chapter. I've been working on it for a few hours. Deleting scenes and replacing them with something entirely different and then now being satisfied with that either, lol. I hope this chapter is to everyone's satisfactory. Though something happens in this chapter that well…
RATED M scenes in this chapter.

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July 18th

Hinata stood alone in the gentle morning sun, the soft rays warming her back as she methodically hung laundry on the clothesline. The cool breeze fluttered the edges of her light-colored garments, sending delicate shadows dancing across the garden. Boruto had already departed on a mission with his team, promising to return in a few days. Until then, it would just be Hinata and Himawari, a thought that filled her with a quiet sense of responsibility.

Her mind drifted to the Land of Stone ANBU—a topic that had been lingering in her thoughts for some time. It had been a while since she'd heard anything about it, and though she wanted to ask Naruto, she trusted that he had everything under control. Yet, the worry persisted, especially knowing he was away on missions. What if that snake mask ANBU were to track him down? The uncertainty gnawed at her, adding to the many worries she carried.

Lost in her concerns, Hinata was startled by a sudden hand on her shoulder. Her heart raced, and she nearly jumped out of her skin. Spinning around, she found Sakura holding her hand to her mouth, trying to suppress her laughter. Bewildered, Hinata managed an awkward smile, unsure of where Sakura came from.

After regaining her composure, Sakura chuckled softly. "Himawari let me in. I'm sorry I scared you. I wasn't expecting that reaction, and it just made me laugh."

Hinata felt her cheeks flush with embarrassment, her eyes pouting slightly. It seemed that scaring people was something Sakura and Sasuke enjoyed, recalling the time Sasuke startled her while she was washing dishes a while ago. Despite her initial fright, seeing Sakura smile brought a warmth to Hinata's heart, allowing her to mentally forgive the pink-haired woman. After all, Hinata was naturally timid and easily scared.

Sakura's expression softened as she spoke again. "I came by because I wanted to know if you'd like to go clothes shopping early with me."

Hinata was surprised. She had never done anything like that with a female friend before. The idea was both new and comforting. Smiling at the thought, she nodded. "I'd like that."

As they worked together to hang the remaining clothes, Sakura took the lead, expertly folding and hanging each piece. Hinata tried to protest, saying she didn't have to, but Sakura simply smiled and waved her off. "I don't mind helping."

Hinata reflected on her growing friendship with Sakura. It was still new, but spending time with her felt genuinely pleasant. Sakura was incredibly kind. Whether she gave Hinata tips on styling her hair or suggestions on what to wear, Sakura was slowly becoming her go-to person. She was what Hinata would call a "girl's girl," embodying grace and understanding in every interaction.

Once the clothes were hung, the two friends began walking toward Hana's, a popular clothing store in Konoha. The sun cast a bright glow over the village, and the streets were alive with the sounds of daily life.

As they walked, Sakura turned to Hinata with a thoughtful expression. "In a few days, it'll be Sasuke-kun's birthday. Naruto, Sai, and I are planning to go out to dinner and have some drinks that night."

Hinata listened, nodding. "That sounds nice."

Sakura sighed softly, her eyes distant. "Honestly, since the divorce I've been missing him and spending time with Sasuke-kun lately has been... comforting."

Hinata could hear the excitement in Sakura's voice and see the hopeful look in her eyes. She already knew how Sasuke felt about Sakura. She wanted to reach out, maybe advise Sakura not to get her hopes up, but she held back, not wanting to overstep. It was none of her concern.

Reaching Hana's, Sakura led Hinata inside. The store was vibrant, filled with colorful displays and racks of the latest fashions. Sakura guided Hinata through the aisles, her enthusiasm infectious.

Suddenly, Sakura stopped and pulled out a green dress from a display. It was charming and cute, without being too revealing—perfect for both dinner and a casual day out. The dress had a playful pattern and a flattering cut that hinted at Sakura's elegance without drawing too much attention.

"What do you think of this dress?" Sakura asked, holding it up.

Hinata examined the dress, nodding appreciatively. "It's really cute."

Sakura's eyes lit up. "I think Sasuke-kun would love it. He often compliments my legs, and this dress really shows them off."

Hinata blinked, surprised by the revelation. Did Sasuke like long legs? She herself didn't have long legs, but rather short legs. Shaking her head, she kept her thoughts to herself, feeling a small sigh escape her lips.

Sakura noticed the hesitation and smiled reassuringly. "I'm going to buy it."

Hinata returned the smile, trying to shake off the thoughts that had briefly crossed her mind. "It'll look really nice on you, Sakura. I'm sure of it."

Sakura chuckled softly. "Thanks, Hinata. Sometimes it's fun to dress up a little, you know? Especially when there's a reason." She paused for a moment, glancing at the dress again before looking at Hinata with a thoughtful expression. "You know, maybe you should try something new too."

Hinata tilted her head slightly. "New? Like what?"

Sakura grinned, pulling a pale lavender dress from a nearby rack. "Like this! It's soft and elegant—just like you. Plus, it would look amazing with your hair and eyes."

Hinata's cheeks turned a light pink as she studied the dress. It was simple, but beautiful, with delicate embroidery along the neckline and a flowy skirt. "Oh, I don't know... I've never worn something like that before."

Sakura waved off her hesitation with a flick of her wrist. "Exactly why you should try it on! You need to see how it feels to wear something that makes you feel... special."

Hinata hesitated for a moment, but seeing Sakura's encouraging smile, she finally relented. "Okay, I'll try it."

As they walked toward the dressing rooms, Sakura added with a grin, "Besides, Naruto would love it."

Hinata's blush deepened as she stammered, "W-Well, I don't really dress up for him...but this dress is nice."

Sakura laughed, the sound light and warm. "Hinata, you're adorable." She gave her a playful nudge. "And you deserve to feel confident, too."

Hinata smiled shyly before slipping into the dressing room with the dress. As she put it on and looked at herself in the mirror, she felt an unexpected sense of excitement. The fabric felt soft against her skin, and the way it flowed made her feel... graceful.

Sakura's voice called from outside the door. "How's it going in there?"

Hinata hesitated before stepping out, feeling a little nervous. "What do you think?"

Sakura's eyes widened, a bright smile spreading across her face. "Hinata, you look stunning! Seriously, you need to get that."

Hinata felt her cheeks warm, but a smile spread across her face. "You really think so?"

"Absolutely," Sakura insisted. "Naruto would be speechless, trust me."

Hinata laughed softly. "Alright. I'll get it."

They both changed back and carried their dresses to the front. As they made their way to the counter, Sakura suddenly grew quiet. "Hinata, can I ask you something?"

Hinata tilted her head. "Of course."

Sakura paused, her voice softening. "Do you ever feel... nervous about the future? Like, what if the people you care about end up drifting away or... not feeling the same way anymore?"

Hinata's eyes softened with understanding. "I think it's natural to feel that way, Sakura. But... I believe that if something is meant to be, it will happen. And if you're honest with your feelings, those you care about will always be there for you."

Sakura looked touched, her eyes glistening. "You're right. Thanks, Hinata. I really needed to hear that."

After they paid for their dress, Hinata had her new dress tucked neatly into a shopping bag at her side. She couldn't help but wonder if she'd ever have the confidence to wear it. Maybe one day—maybe soon. As they stepped into the sunlight, Sakura turned to her with a bright smile.

"I'm going to stop by Ino's flower shop before heading home. Want to come along?"

Hinata nodded, always happy to spend more time with Sakura. "I don't mind."

The walk to Yamanaka Flowers was peaceful, the village bustling with activity as the midday approached. When they arrived, the shop was filled with the fresh scent of blooms and the vibrant colors of petals. Ino was behind the counter, her hands covered in soil as she arranged a bouquet. Upon seeing them, she beamed.

"Hey, you two!" Ino called out, wiping her hands on a cloth. "What's the occasion? Shopping spree?"

Sakura grinned. "You could say that. Hinata bought a really cute dress. And she's going to be joining us for the next girls' night."

Ino's eyes lit up with excitement. "Really? Oh, you're going to have so much fun, Hinata! Just be prepared for a wild night, though. You've never seen Temari and Karui drunk—they're hilarious, but you've got to watch what you say. There are certain topics that can set them off."

Hinata smiled politely, though the idea of a "wild night" left her a little nervous. "I'll keep that in mind."

Ino leaned in, smirking conspiratorially. "Oh, and Tamaki? She's a sweetheart, but don't mention anything about cats around her. She'll talk for hours. And Tenten… well, let's just say she gets a little competitive after a few drinks."

Sakura laughed, shaking her head. "It's true. But it's all in good fun."

Ino continued, "Sometimes Shiho shows up, but it's rare these days. She's busy with all her research. Still, I can't wait for you to join us. It'll be great to have you there!"

Hinata felt a wave of warmth from their enthusiasm, though she found herself growing quieter when Sakura casually mentioned, "Hinata should totally wear the new dress. Naruto would love it."

Hinata's smile faltered for just a moment. She didn't want to bring up the divorce—not now, not here. "Maybe," she said softly, avoiding the subject. Sakura didn't seem to notice, and Ino was already moving on to another topic, thankfully sparing her from having to explain.

Eventually, Hinata decided it was time to head back home. "I should get going. It's almost noon, and I want to start lunch for Himawari."

Sakura smiled warmly. "Alright. See you soon, Hinata."

Ino waved. "Bye, Hinata! Don't forget—next girls' night, you're ours!"

Hinata laughed lightly as she left the shop, heading back to her quiet home. When she arrived, she found a note left on the table in Himawari's neat handwriting:

Hanging out with Chocho! Be back later, Mom!

A soft smile spread across Hinata's lips. It was nice to know Himawari was enjoying her time with friends. With the house empty, she hesitated for a moment before heading to her room and pulling out the dress she'd bought earlier.

Standing in front of the mirror, she slipped it on again, letting the fabric settle around her. She turned, admiring how it hugged her curves, accentuating her figure in ways she wasn't used to seeing. It was... flattering. The dress made her feel different—more confident, even if that confidence came with a side of embarrassment.

Hinata sighed softly, still feeling a little shy but undeniably pleased with how she looked. After a moment, she decided to head to the kitchen to start on lunch. She turned on the radio, filling the quiet space with music. A song she liked came on, and she found herself swaying to the rhythm as she prepared her meal, her voice soft as she sang along.

She was mid-spin when the song ended, and suddenly, the sound of clapping caught her off guard.

Startled, Hinata turned quickly, her eyes widening in shock as she saw Sasuke leaning against the doorframe, his arms crossed, a smirk playing on his lips as he clapped slowly.

"Sasuke!" she stammered, her face turning scarlet as if her skin were lava. "H-how did you get in?!"

Sasuke's smirk deepened. "The door wasn't closed all the way. I was... concerned, until I heard the music and saw..." He trailed off, biting back a laugh, much to her utter embarrassment.

Hinata wished she could crawl under a rock and disappear. "You should've knocked," she muttered, turning away in shame.

"I didn't want to interrupt the performance." Sasuke's tone was light, teasing.

Hinata frowned, still too flustered to look at him. "Why are you even here?" Her voice came out harsher than she intended, and she immediately regretted it.

Sasuke raised an eyebrow, his mock sadness playing across his face. "Is my presence not welcome?"

"No, it isn't," Hinata huffed, though she was only half-serious.

He chuckled. "Harsh." His expression grew a little more serious, though the playful glint remained. "Actually, I came to update you about the Land of Stone ANBU. The situation is still delicate. Sai and I are heading out in a few weeks to gather more intel. Everything's taking longer than expected."

Hinata's face softened, her embarrassment momentarily forgotten. "And... the ANBU that attacked us?"

"Still in custody. But we don't have much from him yet. The other one, the one who got away, is more dangerous." Sasuke's tone was calm, but his words carried weight.

Hinata nodded, worry creeping back into her heart. "I'm just... I'm worried about Boruto being away on a mission right now. What if—"

"Don't worry," Sasuke cut her off, his voice firm but reassuring. "Sarada's with him and so is Mizuki, and they're all strong enough to handle themselves. They're tougher than we give them credit for."

Hinata sighed, still not fully convinced, but Sasuke's confidence did ease her mind somewhat. His words carried the weight of someone who had seen enough to know strength when he saw it.

It was then that Hinata noticed something different about him. His hair—tied back into a low ponytail, framing his face in a way that made him look... more like Itachi than she'd ever realized. Her breath caught in her throat as she stared for a moment too long.

"I like your hair like that," she said softly.

Sasuke blinked, momentarily surprised by the comment. "Hn." He reached up, almost absently, to touch the ends of his hair. "Sakura cut it for me."

Hinata's gaze flickered down, her heart fluttering in a way she couldn't explain. As Sasuke's eyes drifted toward her dress, she suddenly felt self-conscious. He didn't say anything about it, but his brief glance made her wonder what he thought. Did he think it was too much? Did she look strange? Her mind spun with insecurity.

Hinata fidgeted under Sasuke's brief, unreadable gaze, her fingers brushing the fabric of her dress. The warmth of his attention made her feel suddenly self-conscious, and her mind began to spiral with thoughts. Did he think the dress is strange? Or too much? She bit her lip, trying to compose herself.

Sasuke, however, seemed entirely at ease, leaning casually against the doorframe with his usual air of calm detachment. His expression, though unreadable to most, carried the faintest trace of amusement—something only someone like Hinata, who knew him well, would notice.

She cleared her throat, grasping for some sense of normalcy. "So… um, how long will the mission with Sai take?" Her voice came out quieter than she had intended, still flustered from the embarrassment of being caught dancing in her kitchen.

Sasuke's gaze shifted back to her, his expression sobering slightly. "Hard to say. The Land of Stone is cautious, and Kurosawa's ANBU are well-trained. It could take weeks, maybe longer."

Hinata's brows furrowed, worry settling back into her heart. "And… you'll be leaving soon?"

"In about two weeks," he replied, his tone steady and composed. "We need more intel before we make any serious moves."

She nodded slowly, her worry for Boruto creeping back in. Though she trusted Sasuke's assessment, the thought of her son being away on a mission in such dangerous times weighed heavily on her.

Before she could speak, as if reading he mind, Sasuke added, his voice softer this time, "Boruto can handle himself. He's stronger than you think."

Hinata met his gaze, finding a strange sense of comfort in his calm certainty. He was always like this—unshakable, never showing more emotion than necessary. His confidence, as always, was reassuring, but as a mother, the concern remained.

"I know," she said, her voice soft. "But... as a mother, it's hard not to worry."

Sasuke gave a small nod, acknowledging her feelings. "You're allowed to worry. Just don't let it overwhelm you. Boruto's strong, just like his parents."

Hinata couldn't help but smile slightly at that. His words did offer some comfort, though the worry still lingered. There was a quiet between them, one she often found herself lost in when Sasuke was around—comfortable yet filled with an unspoken tension she didn't quite understand.

Her eyes drifted to his hair again, tied back in a loose ponytail, just as she had suggested before. He looked striking, the way the simple change softened his features. Her heart fluttered unexpectedly, and before she realized it, she found herself murmuring again, "I really do like your hair like that."

Sasuke blinked. His hand rose, almost absentmindedly, to brush the ends of his ponytail. "Hn," was all he said—his usual short response—but there was something subtle in the way his fingers lingered on the strands, a sign that her words had gotten through to him.

Hinata's lips curled into a small smile. She could tell, even if he didn't say much, that he was pleased.

"Sakura did a good job," she added, trying to ease the sudden flutter of nerves in her chest.

Sasuke nodded slightly. "She was... thorough," he said, his eyes drifting toward her dress for the briefest moment. His gaze was so quick that had she blinked, she might have missed it. But the way he looked at her left her feeling even more self-conscious than before. What did he think? Did he approve, or was it something else entirely?

He didn't say anything, leaving her to wonder, and as usual, her mind filled the silence with self-doubt. She turned away, hiding her flushed cheeks as she muttered, "I should finish making lunch."

Sasuke's lips quirked into a smirk. "Don't let me stop you," he teased, his tone lighter than usual.

Hinata's embarrassment deepened, her hands stilling on the counter as she tried to focus. "You're… welcome to stay if you'd like," she offered, her voice a bit shaky. She immediately regretted it, not entirely sure why she even said it.

"I should go," he said, pushing off the doorframe, his movements languid. "But now that I'm leaving, you can continue your show."

Hinata froze, her eyes widening in horror. "S-show?!" she stammered, her voice higher than she meant it to be.

His smirk deepened, clearly enjoying her reaction. "Your performance. The singing, dancing… it was entertaining." His voice was teasing, and there was a mischievous glint in his eyes as he watched her squirm.

Her entire face turned red, and she wanted nothing more than for the floor to open up and swallow her whole. "I wasn't… I mean, you…"

Sasuke raised a hand, cutting off her stumbling words. His smirk deepened, his eyes glinting with mischief. "Don't worry, I've seen worse," he said, his tone calm but teasing. "But, if you want to keep me entertained, I wouldn't mind sticking around."

Hinata's eyes widened in shock, her face turning bright red. "Sasuke!" she protested, her voice coming out in an embarrassed squeak as she turned away from him, hiding her flushed cheeks. She pouted, though she couldn't hide the smile tugging at the corners of her lips. "Just leave already!" she muttered, her words laced with both embarrassment and playful frustration.

Sasuke chuckled softly, and began to walk toward the door. "Okay, okay, I'll take my leave," he said, a playful lilt in his voice. As he reached the doorway, he paused. "Just remember, if you ever need an audience for your next performance, I'm only a knock away."

Hinata felt her cheeks heat up even more, and she bit her lip, a mix of embarrassment and flattery swirling in her chest, even though he was just teasing her.

With that, Sasuke stepped out, the door clicking shut behind him. As he left, the air in the room seemed to change, leaving her standing alone, still flustered and acutely aware of the empty space he had just occupied. Her pulse fluttered uncontrollably, and she couldn't shake the lingering warmth of his teasing words.

She took a deep breath, running her hands over her face in an attempt to shake off the lingering embarrassment. What is wrong with me? she thought, her mind racing as she tried to bury the strange feelings rising within her.

Sasuke often teased her, and she had grown used to it over the years. It was his way—blunt, playful, but never unkind. But sometimes...sometimes it made her feel something else. Something deeper, something that made her heart react in ways she didn't quite understand. And it wasn't the first time it had happened. Whenever he gave her those rare, teasing smiles, her pulse would quicken, her breath would catch, and she would feel something stir inside her—a flutter that both excited and confused her.

But he was her best friend, she reminded herself. And he was Naruto's best friend too—her ex-husband's best friend. Whatever strange, fleeting thoughts or feelings she had toward Sasuke, they were wrong. They didn't make sense, and they certainly didn't belong.

She shouldn't feel this way. She pressed her lips into a thin line, trying to convince herself. It didn't matter how much Sasuke's teasing affected her—how it made her feel noticed in ways she wasn't used to. He was her friend. That's all it was. And yet, the more she tried to push those thoughts away, the more they lingered, leaving her with a confusing mixture of guilt and something she couldn't quite explain.

With a sigh, Hinata turned back to her cooking, willing herself to focus on the task at hand. Don't think about it. Don't think about him. But her heart wouldn't quite settle, and despite her best efforts, the image of Sasuke's smirk and the way his eyes had lingered on her just moments before refused to leave her mind.

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Sasuke stepped out of Hinata's house, the door clicking softly behind him as he started his walk back home. His mind wandered back to what he had just witnessed—Hinata, dancing and singing with such freedom, a side of her he'd never seen before. She had always been quiet, composed, but in that moment, she was… different. A part of him had felt oddly happy to catch her in that vulnerable, carefree state, even if it had been just a fleeting glimpse.

He smirked to himself. Hinata had a really pretty voice, something that had genuinely surprised him. He'd never imagined her to be the type who sang when she thought no one was around. It made him wonder if he'd ever get to catch her again, maybe sneak another glimpse of her letting loose. The thought amused him.

Sasuke chuckled quietly. She was almost as fun to tease as Kiba, but there was something distinctly different about it. With Kiba, his brash, loud reactions made pressing his buttons endlessly entertaining. But Hinata… her reactions were softer, shyer, and seeing her turn into a flustered, red-faced mess whenever he teased her filled him with a different sort of satisfaction. The way her lips would twitch upward, even when she was annoyed, as if she secretly enjoyed the banter—it made him want to tease her more. That look of hers always brought a warmth to his chest, a feeling he couldn't quite put into words.

Lost in thought, Sasuke eventually arrived at his home. As soon as he opened the door, his good mood soured. The place was a mess. Clothes were strewn everywhere, plates and half-empty glasses cluttered the surfaces, and bits of trash littered the floor. His jaw tightened as his irritation flared.

Just then, Juugo appeared from the kitchen, a garbage bag in hand. Upon seeing Sasuke's expression, Juugo's face turned sheepish. "I'm… sorry about the mess. Suigetsu's been—well, you know how he can be," Juugo said, looking genuinely remorseful as he gestured to the chaos.

Sasuke sighed, rubbing his temples in frustration. "I was barely gone. How did it turn into this?"

Juugo looked down, clearly embarrassed. "Suigetsu… he gets a bit careless. I've been trying to clean up, but it's taking longer than I thought."

Sasuke took a deep breath, attempting to calm his nerves. It wasn't Juugo's fault, and at least he was trying to clean up the mess. "Where's Suigetsu now?" he asked, his tone flat but edged with irritation.

"He left a little while ago. Not sure where he went," Juugo replied. "But I think he'll be back soon."

Sasuke clenched his jaw before sighing again. "And Karin?"

"She's in the bathroom," Juugo said, gesturing toward the hallway. "She's scrubbing the tub."

Sasuke rubbed his temples once more, his brief moment of calm from earlier completely vanished. "Right."

He made his way down the hall and pushed open the bathroom door to find Karin hunched over the tub, scrubbing furiously while muttering curses under her breath. She was so focused she hadn't even noticed him enter.

"Is that Suigetsu's mess?" Sasuke asked dryly, his voice startling her.

Karin jumped slightly, turning around with wide eyes, her face flushed. "Sasuke-kun!" She blushed, embarrassed. "Y-Yeah. It's his mess. I was just… cleaning it up."

Sasuke frowned, crossing his arms. "Stop cleaning up after him. Make him do it when he gets back."

Karin stood up, wiping her brow. "I don't mind. It's just easier to handle it myself." She gave him a small smile, but it faltered when she caught the look on his face. She quickly removed the cleaning gloves. "But… I'll make sure he does it next time," she added, sensing that Sasuke wasn't in the mood to argue.

She hesitated for a moment, glancing at him. "I made lunch, by the way. I didn't expect you back so soon, but there's plenty of leftovers if you're hungry."

"I'm not hungry," Sasuke muttered, though almost immediately, his stomach betrayed him with a low grumble. Karin stifled a laugh, and Sasuke felt his face heat up slightly. "Fine," he muttered, trying to regain his composure. "I guess I'll eat something."

Karin smiled, clearly pleased, and motioned for him to follow her to the kitchen. As they entered, she gestured to the table where she had already set a plate for him. "I set this aside for you. But if you want to serve yourself—"

"I've got it," Sasuke interrupted, heading to the counter to grab his own plate. He felt awkward under her watchful gaze, realizing she was probably waiting to see what he thought of the food.

The meal she had prepared was simple but well-done. There was grilled fish, rice, and a miso soup, along with some pickled vegetables on the side. Sasuke sat down and took a few bites in silence, feeling Karin's expectant eyes on him. Finally, he glanced up at her.

"It's… decent," he said, smirking slightly as he watched her reaction.

Her face lit up, a small grin spreading across her lips. "Really? You think so?"

He gave a small nod. "You've improved since… before." His words were brief, but they were enough to make Karin beam with pride.

Karin sat down across from him, still smiling. "I've been practicing."

Sasuke continued eating, and as the mood lightened, Karin hesitated again before speaking. "Is it okay if we stay a little longer? I know Suigetsu's been… well, messy. But I promise I'll make sure he cleans up, and we won't be a bother."

Sasuke stopped chewing for a moment, considering her words. He had half a mind to kick them all out, especially with the state his house was in, but seeing how hard Juugo was trying and how Karin had stepped up, he softened. His irritation wasn't completely gone, but he relented.

"Suigetsu better clean up," Sasuke warned, his voice firm. "I'm not dealing with this again."

Karin nodded quickly, relief clear on her face. "I'll make sure of it."

Sasuke finished his meal in silence, but just as he set down his chopsticks, Karin suddenly hugged him from behind, her arms wrapping around his torso. The sudden contact made him freeze.

"Thanks, Sasuke-kun," she murmured against his back, her voice soft.

He stiffened, catching a whiff of her familiar scent, one that stirred unwanted memories—flashes of the past, moments they had shared when they were younger and more reckless. The scent was still the same, natural, with a hint of something sweet, and it brought back emotions he wasn't prepared to confront. Annoyed at his own thoughts, Sasuke shifted uncomfortably.

"Let go," he muttered, his voice tight.

Karin immediately pulled back, looking embarrassed. "Sorry, I just… got caught up in the moment."

Sasuke eyed her for a moment, then sighed, his expression softening. "It's fine," he said, brushing it off. He stood up, grabbed a few kunai from the nearby counter, and tucked them into the pocket inside his cloak. "I'm heading back out."

Karin watched him, still a little flustered, but she nodded. "I'll make sure Suigetsu cleans everything up before you get back."

Sasuke glared slightly. "If he doesn't, I'll deal with him later."

Sasuke left the kitchen, still feeling Karin's lingering presence as he made his way through the disarray of his home. He wasn't in the best mood, but he had one last thing to grab before heading back out—his kunai. As he walked into the small room where he usually kept his weapons, he noticed something was off. His kunai were scattered, and the familiar set of blades were nowhere near where he had left them. His irritation grew.

Finally spotting one of his kunai lying on the edge of a table, Sasuke reached for it. The moment he lifted it to eye level, something immediately felt wrong. There was a strange substance clinging to the sharp tip, something foul and out of place. Sasuke frowned, staring at the residue before the stench hit him—a rancid, putrid odor that made his nose wrinkle in disgust.

Before he could fully process the mess, Juugo's voice spoke up quietly behind him. "Suigetsu… he was using that to clean his toenails."

Sasuke froze. His grip on the kunai tightened as a surge of frustration and revulsion pulsed through him. He inhaled deeply, trying to control the burning irritation rising in his chest. Without another word, he calmly set the kunai down, straightened up, and raised his hand. In an instant, a space-time portal swirled into existence in front of him, shimmering with power.

Not bothering to address Juugo or Karin again, Sasuke stepped through the portal, vanishing from his chaotic home in a flash.

The moment he reappeared in the training grounds, the annoyance that had been building inside him exploded. His eyes narrowed as he summoned his lightning chakra, electricity crackling violently around his hand. Without hesitation, he charged forward, releasing a powerful Chidori. The lightning-infused hand met a thick tree with a sharp, deafening crack, splitting it cleanly down the middle. The wood creaked and groaned as the two halves of the tree fell apart, collapsing to the ground in splintered heaps.

Sasuke stood there, breathing heavily, watching the sparks from his Chidori fade into the air. His heart pounded, and for a moment, the tension in his body began to ease. The sight of the destroyed tree brought him a small sense of satisfaction—enough to release some of the pent-up annoyance that had been clawing at him since he returned home.

But even as the calm settled in, Sasuke couldn't shake the lingering frustration entirely. His home was a disaster, and the thought of Suigetsu using his kunai to clean his toenails made him want to kill him. Worse still, Karin's scent still clung to his mind, stirring memories and emotions he hadn't wanted to revisit.

It had been a long time since Sasuke had been with anyone sexually. Ever since his divorce with Sakura, his life had been consumed by missions, training and his daughter. He didn't dwell on his personal needs much, but he was still human. Despite who he was, despite the walls he'd built around himself, there were moments when his body reminded him that he had desires, just like anyone else.

As much as he tried to push it aside, the thought nagged at him. It wasn't just about sex—it was the physical closeness, the connection. It had been so long since he had allowed himself that kind of vulnerability with anyone, and he wasn't sure what to do with the conflicting emotions stirring inside him. The scent of Karin only served as a reminder of how long it had been since he had allowed himself to even think about those things.

Sasuke clenched his fists, trying to push the thoughts away, but they lingered like an unwanted shadow, making the air around him feel heavier than before. He took another deep breath, focusing on the destruction in front of him—the split tree, the smell of charred wood and lightning in the air. It grounded him, but only barely.

He sighed, running a hand through the front of his hair.

XXXXXXXX

Later that evening…

Naruto sat alone in his office, the soft glow of the lamp casting long shadows across the cluttered desk. Piles of paperwork from the ongoing Land of Stone situation lay in front of him, but his mind wasn't focused on the reports. It hadn't been for hours. He'd told everyone else to leave early, insisting that he would handle the rest on his own, but now, the silence of the empty office weighed heavily on his chest. The stillness was suffocating.

He slumped back in his chair, rubbing his hands over his face. He was exhausted—physically, mentally, emotionally. His body felt like a shell, hollowed out and barely functioning, just going through the motions. But more than exhaustion, Naruto was bone-deep tired. Tired of pretending. Tired of putting on a brave face. Tired of pretending he was okay when inside, he was falling apart.

It had been a month since the divorce, but it felt like an eternity. Every day bled into the next, the same numbness gripping him, the same dull ache gnawing at his insides. He missed her. He missed Hinata in a way that he couldn't even begin to articulate. The house felt cold without her warmth, and every night he came back to an empty bed was another reminder of how much he had lost. He'd never imagined it would come to this—his family, fractured. And all because of him.

Naruto let out a long, shaky breath, his eyes staring blankly at the ceiling. The weight of his regrets crushed him, one by one. He thought back to all the times he could have done something differently—could have been better. How many nights had he spent out drinking with his friends, avoiding going home because deep down, he knew Hinata was upset with him? He hadn't wanted to face it, hadn't wanted to face her. It was easier to drown in the noise of laughter and beer than to confront the growing rift between them.

And then there was the work. His duties as Hokage had consumed him, leaving little time for anything else. He would bury himself in paperwork and meetings, convincing himself it was for the greater good, but in reality, it was just another excuse. An excuse to avoid the uncomfortable silence at home, the one filled with unspoken words and Hinata's quiet disappointment. He could remember her face, the hurt in her eyes every time he brushed her off, every time he told her he was "too busy."

But the worst memory—the one that twisted like a knife in his gut—was the week she left. She had packed her things and stayed at a hotel, giving him space to "figure things out." It had been a wake-up call, one that shook him to his core. In that moment, Naruto had realized just how badly he had failed her. He had tried, after that, to change—to be more present, to fix things. But it was too late. Hinata hadn't forgiven him, and in his frustration and hurt, he had stormed out of the house, leaving her standing there, broken.

He had been so stupid. So goddamn stupid. And now, all he had left were the memories of what he had ruined.

Naruto stared at the reports on his desk, the words blurring together. His chest felt tight, and his throat burned with the overwhelming weight of it all. The thoughts in his head were relentless, dark whispers that grew louder with every passing second.

He failed. As a Hokage. As a husband. As a father.

He clenched his fists, feeling his nails dig into his palms. He hated himself for how things had turned out. Hated that he hadn't been there for Hinata, for his kids, when they needed him most. He was supposed to be strong, wasn't he? The hero of the village. But all he saw in the mirror now was a man who had let everyone down.

The office felt too small, too suffocating. He needed to get out.

Naruto stood abruptly, grabbing his jacket and slipping it on. He didn't care about the reports anymore. His mind was already elsewhere, craving the temporary relief he found in a bottle. The bar had become his escape over the past month—a place where he could drink and pretend, even for just a little while, that everything was fine.

As he walked through the streets of Konoha, he put on the mask. The one he wore so well. That same bright, carefree grin that everyone knew him for, the one that made people believe he was okay. People greeted him as he passed, waving and calling out, and Naruto waved back, his smile never faltering. But inside, his thoughts mocked him. Look at you, pretending everything's fine. They have no idea what a mess you really are.

He arrived at the bar, the familiar ding of the doorbell signaling his entrance. The bartender gave him a nod, and Naruto returned it with a friendly smile. "Just a beer," he said, settling down at the counter.

The moment the glass was in front of him, he lifted it to his lips and drank, downing half of it in one go. The alcohol burned its way down his throat, but it wasn't enough to dull the ache in his chest.

People passed by, exchanging pleasantries with him, and Naruto responded as he always did—with a smile, with laughter, with jokes. But inside, the voice never stopped. They have no idea how worthless you really are.

He set the beer down, his thoughts drifting back to Hinata. The way her eyes would fill with tears during their arguments, how she would try to reach out to him, to talk, but he'd always brush her off. He hadn't wanted to deal with it back then. He didn't want to confront the truth—that he was failing her. Failing his family.

And now, he couldn't stop thinking about those moments. The nights when he'd come home late, drunk, and Hinata would be waiting up for him, her voice soft and hurt as she asked him why he hadn't come home earlier. He'd dismissed her, waved it off, told her not to worry. But now, sitting here alone in this bar, those memories haunted him. The way he had swept their arguments under the rug, the way he had avoided the uncomfortable conversations because he didn't want to face his own failures.

Naruto stared down at his beer, the foam settling at the top. His hands tightened around the glass. He had pushed Hinata away so many times, and now she was gone. And it was all his fault.

His heart ached, and no amount of alcohol could dull the pain of knowing that he had failed her. Failed them.

He lifted the beer again, draining the rest of it.

As Naruto nursed his drink, lost in a sea of regrets, Shino entered the bar. He slid onto the stool next to Naruto and ordered a soda. Glancing over, Naruto raised an eyebrow. "What brings you here, Shino?"

Shino adjusted his glasses, a habit that accentuated his thoughtful demeanor. "I only have soda. I no longer drink alcohol in public."

Naruto chuckled, a sound more hollow than amused, relieved at the thought of avoiding a potential bug incident. "Good call," he muttered, already feeling the warmth of the alcohol dulling the sharper edges of his pain.

With a heavy sigh, Naruto leaned closer to Shino, lowering his voice. "Can I ask you a really weird question?"

"As long as you are prepared for an honest answer," Shino replied in his usual, straightforward manner.

Naruto hesitated, then plunged ahead. "Do you... love Hinata?"

Shino regarded Naruto calmly. "I do love Hinata, but I am not in love with her, if that's what you're implying."

Naruto frowned, turning to face forward, his expression clouding over. "I wasn't implying anything. Just curious."

Shino, ever perceptive, continued quietly. "The only one who ever had a crush on Hinata was Kiba. It lasted for about a year, when we first became teammates."

Naruto turned sharply, surprise etched across his features. "Really?"

"Yes," Shino said, adjusting his glasses again. "Kiba saw you as a rival for her affections initially. He later shifted to supporting her in hopes that you would notice her feelings."

Naruto's laugh was bitter, tinged with irony. "And I thought you were the one," he murmured.

"I know," Shino replied, a hint of amusement in his tone. "I'm good at reading people, Naruto. It's not just bugs that I understand."

"Yeah, I get it," he cut in, not wanting to spiral further into a discussion that opened too many old wounds.

"Are you okay, Naruto?" Shino asked, his voice low and concerned as he sipped his soda.

With his practiced grin, Naruto masked his turmoil. "I'm just fine," he lied smoothly.

Shino didn't press further, returning to his drink. The silence that fell between them was heavy, filled with Naruto's self-loathing thoughts. Why did he even ask him? What did he think of him now? Ashamed, Naruto avoided Shino's gaze, taking a long gulp of his beer.

His mind wandered back to Hinata, this time to the good memories. He remembered her laugh, bright and clear like a bell, the way her eyes lit up when she was truly happy. He thought of the quiet evenings they had spent just talking, the gentle touch of her hand in his. But these memories were a double-edged sword, each happy moment juxtaposed with the painful ones that followed—the arguments, the misunderstandings, the silences that grew longer each day.

The weight of these memories grew too much, and abruptly, Naruto stood up. "I gotta go," he muttered, throwing some bills on the counter. As he staggered out, he heard Shino call out to him, making him jump.

"Don't sneak up on me like that!" Naruto snapped, his heart racing.

Shino's voice was calm and measured as he spoke, "Naruto, there's no shame in asking for help. It's alright to admit when you're not okay. Always remember that."

For a moment, Naruto felt the weight on his shoulders lift, a brief respite from his inner turmoil. But as he turned around, Shino was already gone, disappearing as silently as he had appeared.

Naruto continued his unsteady walk back to the Hokage tower, his home that now felt more like a prison. With each step, the brief moment of relief faded, replaced by the creeping shadows of his depression. The loneliness enveloped him again, suffocating and cold. His home awaited, silent and empty, a stark reminder of everything he had lost. As he walked, the darkness grew, overwhelming Shino's words, drowning them out until they were just a whisper against the storm inside him.

XXXXXXXXX

Sometime after midnight…

Sasuke lay in bed, staring at the ceiling, letting the silence of the room lull him back toward sleep. The weight of his thoughts from earlier in the day still lingered, but he was grateful for the quiet—until the creak of his bedroom door cut through the stillness.

His eyes flicked open, narrowing as the door slowly swung inward. He could make out Karin's silhouette as she slipped into the room, closing the door softly behind her. Her movements were careful, as if she didn't want to disturb the peace, but Sasuke's gaze was sharp as he watched her.

"What are you doing in my room?" His voice was low, edged with irritation.

Karin turned to face him, her red hair catching the soft light from the hallway. "I couldn't sleep," she whispered. "Suigetsu's snoring is driving me insane."

Sasuke grunted, not particularly interested in her excuse. "That's not my problem."

Karin pouted slightly, stepping closer to the bed. "Come on, Sasuke-kun... Please. Just let me stay here tonight."

He exhaled heavily, the annoyance creeping into his voice. "Fine."

Before he could react further, Karin wasted no time slipping under the covers beside him, her back turned to him as she settled in. "Goodnight, Sasuke-kun," she murmured, her voice soft.

Sasuke glared at her back, but said nothing in response. The weight of her presence beside him was distracting, and he closed his eyes, willing himself to ignore it. For a few moments, the room was silent again, and Sasuke could feel sleep beginning to creep back in.

But then, Karin's voice broke the stillness once more. "Sasuke-kun...?"

He opened his eyes, irritation clear. "What?"

Karin shifted slightly, turning just enough for him to catch the soft curve of her profile. "You know... It's been a long time since we've been like this. You and me... alone."

Sasuke's jaw clenched, but he said nothing. The air between them thickened with an unspoken tension. She wasn't wrong—it had been a long time. Too long. He felt the familiar pull of desire stirring within him, something he had buried deep for months, maybe even years. The warmth of her body so close to his was enough to awaken the urges he had tried to suppress.

Karin shifted again, rolling onto her back now, her eyes finding his in the dim light. "Sasuke-kun... I know you feel it too."

He did. As much as he hated to admit it, the proximity, the familiarity—it was all pushing him toward something he hadn't allowed himself to feel for a while. His needs, raw and unspoken, overpowered the restraint he had practiced for so long. Without thinking, Sasuke moved closer to her, his breath heavy as his hand brushed against her arm, trailing up to her shoulder.

Karin's breath hitched, and she turned fully to face him, her lips parting slightly. The look in her eyes was knowing, almost expectant. Sasuke hesitated for just a moment, the logical part of his brain warning him to stop, but that part was quickly drowned out by the weight of his desire.

He leaned in, his lips finding hers in a slow, deliberate kiss. It was soft at first, tentative, but then the hunger between them ignited, and the kiss deepened. Karin responded eagerly, her hands moving up to tangle in his hair, pulling him closer as their bodies pressed together under the covers.

Sasuke's hand slipped under her shirt, tracing the curve of her waist as he explored the familiar contours of her body. She arched into his touch, her breath coming out in soft gasps as he moved over her, his lips trailing down the side of her neck. The taste of her skin sent a jolt of electricity through him, and he could feel the heat building between them, the barrier of their clothes feeling like an unnecessary weight.

Karin's fingers found the hem of his shirt, tugging it upward, and Sasuke allowed her to pull it off, his chest now bare as he pressed her back into the mattress. Her hands roamed his body with a kind of desperation, and he responded in kind, sliding her shirt off in one swift motion.

For a long moment, they were lost in the heat of the moment—kissing, touching, the sound of their breath mingling in the quiet room. Sasuke's mind was clouded with need, a need he hadn't allowed himself to indulge in so long. Karin's body was familiar, comfortable, and in that moment, it felt right. But he wasn't going to let it go any further. Not tonight.

He pulled back slightly, his breathing heavy, his forehead resting against hers. "Don't get any expectations," he muttered, his voice low, husky.

Karin looked up at him, her eyes dark with desire, but she managed a small smile. "I won't."

Satisfied with her answer, Sasuke leaned in again, capturing her lips in another kiss, deeper this time, but still controlled. He wasn't going to let it spiral out of control. He pulled her closer, his hands roaming her body, but he kept it there, at the edge of the line. It was enough. For now.

Sasuke broke the kiss after a long moment, his lips brushing against her ear. "Good," he whispered, his voice rough as he pulled her even closer.

Karin melted into him, her fingers still trailing over his skin, but the urgency between them slowly ebbed. They remained like that for a while, tangled together in the quiet, the heat between them simmering but never boiling over. Sasuke was content with it. For the first time in a long time, the need was tempered.

He pulled back slightly, catching her gaze, and with a final kiss, he settled into the bed beside her. "Goodnight," he muttered.

Karin smiled, her voice soft. "Goodnight, Sasuke-kun."

Sasuke lay there, his mind still buzzing from the contact, but he knew he had control now. It was enough. For tonight.

XXXXXXXX

July 19th

Sasuke was startled awake by the loud, unmistakable voice of Suigetsu echoing through the room. His eyes adjusted to the dim light as he saw Suigetsu standing in the doorway, a devious grin plastered across his face.

"Well, well, looks like Karin finally got what she really came along for, huh?" Suigetsu teased, his eyes darting between Sasuke and Karin, who was still under the covers beside him.

Sasuke's glare could have cut through steel. "Get out. You're being too loud," he said, his voice sharp with irritation.

Karin, now sitting up and clutching the sheets to her chest, glared at Suigetsu. "Get out, you idiot!" she yelled, her voice piercing through Sasuke's ears.

Sasuke winced, turning his glare on her next. "You're yelling in my ear," he muttered, rubbing his temples. His headache was already starting, and he had only just woken up.

Unfazed, Suigetsu shrugged, still grinning like a fool. "By the way, some cute chick came by looking for you."

Sasuke raised an eyebrow, his interest piqued despite himself. "Who?"

Suigetsu scratched his head. "I dunno, but she looked familiar. Blue hair."

Sasuke's mind clicked, and he found himself trying to suppress a smile. "Did she leave any message?"

"Something about training," Suigetsu replied with a shrug.

Sasuke's lips twitched upward for just a moment before he fixed Suigetsu with another deadly glare. "Get out."

Suigetsu quickly left, shutting the door behind him. Sasuke swung his legs out of bed, standing up as he began searching for his clothes. He knew exactly who the "blue-haired" woman was, and though he didn't entirely understand why, the thought of seeing her brightened his mood.

Karin watched him as he pulled on his shirt. "Are you heading out for the day?" she asked, her voice soft.

Sasuke nodded, grabbing his cloak. "Yeah."

"Where are you going?" Karin's voice held a hint of curiosity, but not jealousy.

"Meeting a friend," Sasuke replied, his tone casual as he slid his socks on with one hand.

Karin smiled, leaning back on her elbows. "Last night was fun."

Sasuke didn't respond immediately. He stood by the door, his hand resting on the handle. Just before stepping out, he glanced back and said quietly, "Yeah, it was." With that, he left the room.

When Sasuke arrived at the training grounds, the first thing he saw was Hinata, her blue hair tied back as she practiced her punches on the sandbag tied to a tree. Her movements were fluid, graceful, yet packed with power. He watched her stance, the precision of her strikes, and felt a wave of admiration.

"Your form is impressive," Sasuke said, walking toward her.

Hinata glanced at him, her eyes soft but smiling. "I have a good teacher."

He smirked at that and watched her continue to hit the bag. She didn't break her rhythm, her focus unwavering. It was another thing about her that he found fascinating—her quiet determination, the way she pushed herself even when no one else was around.

Hinata's eyes flickered over to him between strikes. "I didn't know your friend from the other team was in town."

Sasuke sighed, folding his arms. "Yeah, Suigetsu came in a few days ago. He's been driving me up the wall ever since. I might kick him out soon."

Hinata laughed softly, her voice melodic. "Having company can be a good thing, you know."

"My sanity is also a good thing," Sasuke retorted with a smirk.

Hinata paused her punches for a moment and muttered something under her breath.

Sasuke raised an eyebrow, taking a step closer to her, his smirk widening. "What was that? Did you just imply that my sanity isn't important?"

Hinata's cheeks flushed, and she quickly shook her head. "N-no, I didn't say that!"

Sasuke chuckled, clearly amused. "I think I heard you correctly, Hinata. You can be funny sometimes."

Hinata looked up at him, frowning, but her eyes still held a hint of embarrassment. "I'm not funny."

Sasuke tapped her forehead lightly, his smirk deepening. "You are, and that's a good thing."

She frowned at him in mock annoyance, and he could tell she was fighting a smile. "Are you ready to spar?" Sasuke asked, raising an eyebrow.

Hinata nodded, her expression becoming serious again.

The sparring session began smoothly, each of them moving with skill and precision. Sasuke's Sharingan was activated, his eyes following Hinata's every movement, but he could feel the grace in the way they fought. It was almost like a dance, the way their bodies moved in perfect rhythm. Hinata's gentle fists were precise, her chakra control near flawless as she aimed her strikes with deadly accuracy. Sasuke dodged and countered with swift kicks and punches, their connection during the sparring unique, almost as if they were perfectly in tune.

Her agility kept him on his toes, and he found himself admiring the progress she had made since they first began training together. Each punch, each dodge, each counter felt fluid—like the ebb and flow of water, natural and unforced.

Then, in a final move, Hinata slipped past his defense, her chakra-infused palm gently but firmly pressing against his chest, sending him back a few steps.

Sasuke paused, catching his breath. He glanced at her, his lips curving into a faint smile. "You've improved a lot."

Hinata exhaled, her cheeks flushed from exertion. "Thank you."

"You should go back out in the field," Sasuke said, his tone serious. "Your skills shouldn't go to waste."

Hinata's expression softened, and she glanced down at her hands. "I've thought about it... but there's my children."

Sasuke shrugged. "One of your children is a ninja himself. It's okay to do what you want. If you want it."

Hinata hesitated, but her eyes showed a flicker of longing. "I actually had that same conversation with Kakashi-sensei some time ago."

Sasuke raised an eyebrow, surprised. "Did you?"

"Maybe it's the universe telling me to consider it," Hinata mused, a small smile forming on her lips.

"You should," Sasuke encouraged. "You're more than ready."

Hinata bit her lip. "I'll talk to Naruto-kun about it, but... I'm not sure how he'll feel."

Sasuke's gaze softened. "He'll support you. Even if he worries, it's Naruto-kun. He'll understand."

Hinata looked away for a moment, clearly thinking it over. Sasuke could see that she was torn, but he knew deep down that she missed being on missions, contributing in her own way.

After a moment, Sasuke asked, "Can I ask you for a favor?"

Hinata blinked, surprised. "What is it?"

He hesitated for a beat, but then his lips formed a small smirk. "Sing for me."

Hinata's face instantly turned a bright shade of red. "I... I can't! I won't!"

Sasuke chuckled at her flustered reaction. "Would it help if I turned away?"

She shook her head rapidly. "No, I... I really can't, Sasuke. Please stop asking."

He looked at her for a long moment, then sighed, his voice soft. "I meant it when I said your voice was pretty." And did mean it. Sasuke could still remember the soft lull of his mother's voice as she sang to him, the melody weaving through the quiet of their home like a comforting breeze. Her voice had a warmth to it, a gentle cadence that soothed him even on the nights when his mind was restless. He would lay in bed, tucked under the blankets, his small hands gripping the fabric as her song filled the room. The world outside always felt distant in those moments, reduced to the safe, steady rhythm of her voice.

The memory of her singing remained vivid, even after all these years. Sometimes, when he closed his eyes, he could almost hear her again—soft, melodic, with a tenderness that was uniquely hers. It was in those fleeting moments that Sasuke felt closest to her, as if the distance between the past and present blurred, and he was once again a child, falling asleep to the sound of his mother's gentle lullaby. Those memories, though bittersweet, were a rare comfort, a reminder of the love he had once known so deeply.

Hinata's eyes softened for a moment. She opened her mouth to respond, but before she could speak, she handed him a bento.

"I made us lunch," she said quietly, changing the subject.

Sasuke took the bento, surprised but grateful. "Thanks."

They both sat down under the tree, their backs against the trunk. The silence between them was comfortable, peaceful. Sasuke ate quietly, enjoying the simple pleasure of sharing a meal with someone in such tranquility.

As he ate, he suddenly heard a soft humming. He glanced over, and there was Hinata, her cheeks flushed as she hummed, her voice soft and melodic. The tune drifted into a short song, and Sasuke felt his chest tighten as he listened. Her voice was gentle, like a warm breeze on a quiet day, and as the song ended, a chill ran up his spine, leaving him with a strange warmth deep inside.

Hinata's humming faded as she continued eating, as if she hadn't sung at all. Sasuke's lips twitched into a small smile, his heart feeling lighter than it had in days.

He didn't say anything, but internally, he silently thanked her for the small gift she had unknowingly given him.

XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX

So...about that Karin scene... Let me tell you now, this is obviously a SasuHina story. So that's not going anywhere. It's only serving for plot purposes!

Also, I want to thank everyone who has been reading and leaving a comment. It always makes me smile and helps push me to write. I know there are moments when I can become a bit inconsistent, but I've been trying to update more frequently. Either way, thank you everyone! 3