I know…I said I would update on Sunday or Monday…and here we are on Thursday. At least it's still within the same week. So that tell counts, right? Lol. I apologize! Sometimes, I can go on a streak with updating and other times, I fall short. I was stuck because I didn't know what to type for this chapter. My mind is focused on Sasuke's birthday chapter and everything that comes after that, so I'm not sure what to write before that. So, think of this chapter as a filler (and the upcoming 3 chapters) until we dive back into the meat of things, lol.
(Sidenote: I've already written the scene when SasuHina actually starts, lol. I had the scene in my mind last week and decided to write it. Although, we have a long time until we reach that point, but I know it'll be a scene many of you will enjoy…if you like spicy scenes (or lemons as people used to call it years ago haha). That's a little future spoiler, haha. Now onto the chapter!
XXXXXXX
July 16th
Sasuke walked through the bustling streets of Konoha, the noise and energy of the village swirling around him. The sun hung high, casting warm light across the shops and stands lining the path. Next to him, his daughter, Sarada, walked with a large cookie in her hand, her eyes bright as she took a bite. She was growing fast, almost as tall as her mother, and carried herself with a confidence that made him both proud and wistful.
He watched her out of the corner of his eye, feeling the familiar tug of pride mixed with regret. She was his pride and joy, the best thing he'd ever had a hand in creating. Every smile, every laugh, and even her stubborn determination reminded him of why he was so grateful for her. Yet, for all the memories he cherished, there were just as many he didn't have—moments he had missed because he wasn't there. He'd spent years away, protecting Konoha, sometimes disappearing for months at a time. Missions had kept him from seeing her grow up, from hearing her first words, from being there when she needed him most.
Lately, he'd been trying to make up for lost time. He was home more often now, and even when he took missions, he always returned. He'd promised himself that he would never be gone for long. When the missions stretched on longer than expected, he wrote to her, keeping that connection strong. He wanted to be a better father, and he hoped—every day—that he was doing a good enough job.
"Hey, Sarada," he said, his voice cutting through the noise of the marketplace. She looked up at him, her eyes curious, still chewing on her cookie.
"What is it, Papa?"
He paused for a moment, weighing his words. "How have you been feeling… since your mother and I divorced?"
Sarada blinked, clearly surprised by the question. "I've been fine. Why are you asking that all of a sudden?"
He could tell by her tone that she was deflecting. She'd always been strong, but he knew when she was putting on a front. Sasuke exhaled, trying to figure out how best to approach the subject. Should he be blunt or ease into it? He settled for something in between, aiming for honesty without harshness.
"I know you've been trying to get your mother and me back together." His voice was steady, though there was a hint of softness to it. "And I understand why. You wanted things to be the way they used to be."
Sarada's expression shifted, and he could see the mix of emotions in her eyes. "I just… I wanted us to be a real family again. We were finally becoming one, and then… it all fell apart."
Her voice wavered, and Sasuke felt the weight of her words. He knew how much she'd wanted that—how much she still did. But he needed to be honest with her.
"It's not that simple," he said, his tone even. "Your mother and I… we're different. We've tried, but some things don't fit the way they used to. And it wouldn't be fair to either of us to force something that isn't there anymore."
She was quiet for a moment, and he could see her processing his words. Her brows furrowed, and she looked down, her grip tightening on the cookie. "So… you don't love her anymore?"
Sasuke paused. "I do love her. But not in the way that would bring us back together. That kind of love isn't there anymore. But that doesn't mean I don't care about her or about you any less. You'll always be the number one girl in my heart, Sarada."
Sarada's cheeks flushed, her expression flustered as she looked away. "Papa… that's… so annoying." She turned, her pace quickening as she walked ahead of him, clearly embarrassed.
Sasuke watched her, feeling a small wave of embarrassment himself. But he meant every word. He smiled, a rare, warm expression that softened his features. Maybe he didn't always say things perfectly, but he knew he was doing his best, and for Sarada, he would continue to do better. She was his daughter—his reason to keep coming home. And he would be there for her, no matter what.
The busy streets of Konoha teemed with life, villagers and shinobi alike bustling about their business. Sasuke moved through the crowd with his usual air of calm detachment, Sarada walking alongside him, still munching on the cookie. It was one of those rare days where the village felt more like a backdrop to his thoughts rather than a place he was supposed to protect. But as they rounded a corner, a familiar presence pricked at his senses.
Hanabi.
Sasuke felt his shoulders tense. It wasn't that he disliked Hanabi—he simply didn't know much about her, and frankly, he preferred to keep it that way. The Hyuga sister had an energy about her, one that made him instinctively wary. As she drew closer, his discomfort grew. If he had a choice, he'd slip into the shadows and avoid the conversation entirely. But they were face-to-face now, and there was no escaping it.
His expression remained as impassive as ever, the stoic mask firmly in place, but internally, he felt the beginnings of awkwardness clawing at him. Hanabi's grin was bright, too bright, and it felt like she could see through the silence he wore like armor.
"Hey, Sasuke," she greeted, her tone cheerful and much too enthusiastic for his liking. "Still training with my sister?"
"Yeah," he replied, voice flat, hoping to keep the interaction short. His gaze remained steady, even as he could feel the prickle of discomfort creeping up his neck. The less he said, the quicker this could be over. At least, that's what he hoped.
Hanabi's eyes lingered on him for a moment before flicking to Sarada. Her expression shifted, softening as she beamed. "And who is this cutie?" she asked sweetly, her hands clasped together.
Sasuke suppressed a sigh. "My daughter. Sarada."
Hanabi's face lit up as she crouched slightly to be more level with Sarada. "Oh, you're adorable!" she gushed. "Aren't you my sweet nephew's teammate?"
Sarada smiled politely, used to the attention but not overly affected by it. "Yes, I am on Boruto's team."
Hanabi clapped her hands together, nodding with an almost theatrical enthusiasm. "I knew it! You're doing such a great job, Sarada-chan. Keep an eye on him, will you?"
Sarada nodded, and for a moment, Sasuke felt a sense of relief. Maybe that was it—maybe Hanabi would move along. But then, he felt the weight of her gaze shift back to him. Her eyes trailed over him, up and down, a subtle scrutiny that made his skin crawl. She seemed to be measuring him, as if trying to decipher something he wasn't quite sure of. He stood rigid, unflinching, but internally, he wished the ground would open up and swallow him.
"Well, take care, Sasuke," Hanabi said, a sly edge to her voice as she finally turned to leave. She gave him one last, lingering look—one that felt like it had more meaning than he cared to decipher—before she walked off with a casual wave.
He watched her go, the awkwardness of the encounter still hanging in the air as he blinked once, his expression remaining fixed. He could feel Sarada's eyes on him, and he glanced down.
"She's… different from Aunt Hinata," Sarada observed, her tone neutral, but her eyes curious.
Sasuke let out a slow breath, the only sign of his relief. "Yeah… she is."
As they continued to stroll, he glanced down and asked, "How are you liking the book Hinata got you?"
Sarada's face lit up, her eyes sparkling with excitement as she launched into a detailed explanation. She described each plot twist and character as if she were the one solving the mystery. Sasuke couldn't help but smile, watching his daughter's enthusiasm bloom. It was moments like these that he cherished.
"Do you want to go and thank her?" he asked.
Sarada's eyes widened in surprise. "Can we, really?" she asked, her voice hopeful.
He nodded, and she eagerly agreed. Together, they made their way to Hinata's home.
Lately, he found himself seeing Hinata more often. Sometimes it was by chance, other times he'd ask if she wanted to train or simply spend time together. He wondered occasionally if she ever grew tired of seeing him because, for him, it was the opposite. There was a sense of peace he felt in her presence that he didn't often experience with others. He valued those moments, even if he'd never admit it aloud. He'd already told Hinata too much—like admitting she was his best friend—and while that truth was embarrassing to acknowledge, it was one he didn't regret. He didn't want to reveal how much he genuinely enjoyed her company, even on days when boredom led him to seek her out.
When they reached Hinata's house, Himawari opened the door, her face brightening. "Sarada-chan, Uncle Sasuke! Come in!" she exclaimed, a delighted glint in her eyes. Sasuke was reminded again how much Himawari resembled Naruto, with her exuberance, yet she had Hinata's warmth and a quiet confidence he didn't remember Hinata having at that age.
"Something smells good," Sarada said, taking in the cozy, cinnamon-scented air as they stepped inside.
"Mama just made cinnamon rolls," Himawari said, grabbing Sarada's wrist and pulling her excitedly toward the kitchen. Sasuke followed, a small smile tugging at his lips.
In the kitchen, Hinata sat with a cinnamon roll in hand, looking so content and carefree that it made Sasuke smile. There was a dab of frosting at the corner of her lips, and he handed her a napkin, gesturing to his own lips to indicate the spot. She quickly wiped it away, her cheeks turning pink.
It was...cute.
He pulled out the chair beside her, while Sarada and Himawari settled across from them. Hinata offered mini cinnamon rolls to Sarada, who glanced at Sasuke for approval. With a nod, he watched his daughter's eyes brighten as she reached for one, thanking Hinata before digging in.
As Sarada took her first bite, she turned to Hinata. "Thank you so much for the book! It's really fun, and I love mysteries."
Hinata smiled warmly. "I'm so glad you like it, Sarada-chan."
Himawari and Sarada soon fell into an animated discussion about the book, giggling and chatting. Sasuke, seeing the two girls so engrossed, turned his attention to Hinata. Leaning in slightly, he lowered his voice so only she could hear. "I wanted to ask—do you think Boruto should retake the chunin exam?"
Hinata paused, her expression a mix of concern and hesitation. "Why do you ask?"
Sasuke's gaze was steady. "He's gotten stronger. I think it would be good for him."
Hinata raised an eyebrow, a teasing look in her eyes. "Did Boruto put you up to this? I still remember when he asked you to talk me into buying that video game."
Sasuke's lips twitched, caught between mild embarrassment and amusement. "He didn't. This time, it's my idea."
Hinata smiled softly, though her eyes remained thoughtful. "I'd probably need to talk to Naruto about it."
He nodded. "I understand, but I think you should consider it." He paused, glancing over at Sarada, who was animatedly chatting with Himawari.
Hinata, her voice barely above a whisper, commented, "She looks just like you."
Sasuke smiled, following Hinata's gaze. "Yeah, she does," he said, though he quickly changed the subject. "I ran into your sister."
Hinata's eyes widened in surprise. "You did? What did she say?"
"She was sizing me up," he chuckled. "Felt like she was trying to figure out if she approves of me being around you."
Hinata shook her head, smiling. "She can be a bit protective, but I doubt that's it. She's probably just curious."
Sasuke shrugged, dismissing the thought. "It's fine, even if she doesn't approve. I'm not going anywhere."
Hinata's expression shifted, something unreadable passing through her eyes before she quickly looked away. Sasuke noticed, but he let it go. Hinata was...odd sometimes, but he didn't mind. It was just one of her quirks.
Just then, Boruto's voice echoed through the house, announcing his return from training. Himawari called him into the kitchen, and when he entered, his eyes widened at the sight of them. "What are you guys doing here?" he asked, rubbing the back of his head.
Sarada beamed. "We stopped by so I could thank your mom for a book."
Boruto hummed, reaching for a cinnamon roll before Hinata's voice stopped him. "Boruto, did you wash your hands?"
He sighed dramatically but went to the sink, muttering complaints. Once he was back, he joined the group, his eyes flicking between Sasuke and Hinata. "So...Sasuke-sensei told me you both are best friends. How come you never told me that, Mom?"
Sarada seemed equally surprised, her eyes darting to her father for confirmation. Sasuke, feeling slightly annoyed, thought, Why is that so surprising? No one questioned his friendship with Naruto. He side-glanced at Hinata, who seemed caught off guard.
"Well, yes," Hinata confirmed with a small smile. "Sasuke and I have become good friends."
Himawari grinned. "I like that Mama has a new friend. And it's someone nice like Uncle Sasuke."
Hinata giggled, and Sasuke narrowed his eyes playfully. "What's so funny?"
She brushed it off with a dismissive wave. "Oh, it's nothing."
Boruto's grin widened, his eyes glinting with mischief. "It's just... you're not exactly the cuddly, approachable type, Sasuke-sensei."
Sasuke's irritation lingered, his frown deepening as the teasing continued. But when he heard Sarada's giggle, his expression softened. Slowly, a small smile formed on his lips. The sound of his daughter's laughter, combined with the warmth in the kitchen, made everything feel...right.
XXXXXXXXX
Kiba stood in front of Hinata's door, tapping his knuckles against the wood. As the seconds passed, he heard footsteps approaching before the door swung open, revealing Boruto. The kid's expression was neutral, bordering on disinterested.
"Hey, Boruto," Kiba greeted, forcing a grin. "How's it going?"
Boruto shrugged, glancing over his shoulder. "Mom's in the kitchen," he said flatly before stepping aside to let Kiba in.
Kiba's smile faltered for a moment, the lukewarm reception hitting him like a cold draft. He knew Boruto wasn't particularly fond of him, and yeah, it stung. But he was getting used to it, slowly building up the armor needed to brush off the indifference. As he bent down to untie his shoes, his eyes caught sight of two other pairs neatly set by the door. One of them was familiar—and it made his stomach drop.
He felt the tension in his shoulders as he stepped into the hallway, moving toward the kitchen. Sure enough, as he turned the corner, there was Sasuke, leaning back casually with that smug look on his face, like he owned the place.
"Hey, number two," Sasuke greeted, the smirk playing on his lips as if he was waiting for Kiba's reaction.
Kiba clenched his jaw, his hands balling into fists at his sides. It took every ounce of restraint not to snap back, not to let the kids see how much it bothered him. He forced his anger down, burying it beneath a smile as he approached Hinata, leaning down to hug her. "Hina-chan," he said warmly, hoping the affection in his voice masked the simmering irritation.
Hinata smiled up at him, and for a moment, the tension eased. But then the smell of freshly baked cinnamon rolls reached his nose, and his mood lifted further. "You made my favorite," he grinned, making a beeline for the sink to wash his hands.
As he scrubbed, he glanced over his shoulder, catching Sarada's curious gaze. She was eyeing him, her head tilted slightly. Kiba managed a small smile her way before turning back to the sink, reminding himself that if he was going to be in this house with him, he'd at least try to be civil in front of the kids. He just needed to pretend to be nice. He clenched his jaw as he rinsed off the soap.
But the truth was, he didn't like Sasuke. Not one bit. It was bad enough that the guy seemed to have everything—power, status, respect—but now he was here, spending more and more time with Hinata. Kiba could see it happening right in front of his eyes: Sasuke, inch by inch, was becoming closer to her than he ever was. And it made his skin crawl.
Hinata had been his friend first, back when they were kids. She had been the one to train with him, to confide in him, to make him feel like he wasn't just some background extra. But now, every time he turned around, Sasuke was there, taking up space that Kiba used to occupy. And the worst part? Hinata seemed to be letting it happen. She smiled more when Sasuke was around, laughed a little louder, and her eyes had that light Kiba rarely saw anymore.
When Sasuke called him "number two," it was like a slap to the face. It wasn't just a nickname—it was a reminder that he'd been pushed to the sidelines, reduced to the role of backup in a friendship he had cherished for years. No matter what he did, no matter how many times he tried to spend time with Hinata, it felt like Sasuke was always one step ahead, slipping into the spaces Kiba had once filled effortlessly.
He hated it. He hated that smug, superior look on Sasuke's face, like he knew exactly how much it bothered Kiba. And he hated the fact that he couldn't just lash out and tell Sasuke to back off. Not with Hinata's kids watching. He had to play the nice guy, had to keep up the act, even as his pride took hit after hit.
As he turned off the faucet and dried his hands, he stole another glance at Sasuke, who was casually chatting with Hinata as if he belonged there. Kiba's fists tightened around the towel.
Kiba tried to keep his face neutral as he made his way to the counter where Hinata's cinnamon rolls were laid out, fresh and warm, their sweet scent filling the kitchen. He grabbed one, feeling the familiar comfort of it in his hand, and took a bite, savoring the way the sugar and cinnamon melted on his tongue. It was a reminder of the connection they shared, a connection that felt like it was slipping further out of reach every time he saw Sasuke here.
As he chewed, he glanced over at Hinata, who was smiling as she chatted with Sasuke. Kiba felt a pang of something sharp and hot in his chest. She was his best friend—his—and yet, lately, it seemed like every time he showed up, Sasuke was there too, acting like he belonged.
Hinata looked so happy when she was around Sasuke, and that's what twisted the knife even deeper. Kiba wanted her to be happy, of course he did, but why did it have to be with him? Why did it feel like he was slowly being pushed aside, like all the years of friendship they shared were starting to mean less and less?
He bit into the cinnamon roll harder than he intended, trying to ignore the growing tightness in his chest. The more he thought about it, the more he felt like he was losing a battle he didn't even realize he was fighting until now.
And that smug look Sasuke always had when he called him that—number two. It was like the guy knew exactly how much it got under his skin and took some sort of sick pleasure in it. Kiba hated how much it bothered him, hated that Sasuke's words could make him feel like he was still that kid who always came in second, no matter how hard he tried. Being called "number two" felt like an insult to everything he valued about his friendship with Hinata. It was a reminder that no matter what he did, no matter how many years he'd spent by her side, Sasuke was slipping in and stealing what he held dear.
Did she even realize it? He glanced at Hinata as she laughed softly at something Sasuke said. She had that glow about her, the one that used to light up when they spent time together, and seeing it now—seeing it directed at Sasuke—made his chest ache. He wanted to be the one to make her smile like that, the one she leaned on when things got tough, not him. She was his best friend. His sister.
He caught Sasuke's eye. The man was still watching him, that smirk lingering on his face as if to say, I've already won. Kiba's jaw clenched, but he forced a smile and turned back to Hinata, determined to push back, even if it was just a little. He wouldn't let Sasuke take away his place in her life without a fight.
"Hina-chan," he said again, a little louder, trying to pull her focus back to him. "These cinnamon rolls are just as good as I remember."
Hinata beamed, her eyes lighting up as she turned her attention fully to him. "I'm glad you like them, Kiba-kun. I made extra, so feel free to take some home."
Kiba's heart lifted at her words, and he shot a quick look at Sasuke, feeling a small sense of triumph. See? he thought. She still cares. But deep down, the nagging doubt remained—how much longer could he hold onto this feeling before Sasuke fully replaced him?
He tried to shove the thought away as he took another bite of the cinnamon roll, focusing on the sweet, familiar taste. As long as he was around, he wasn't going to let Sasuke take what was his. Not his best friend. Not the bond they shared. No matter how many times he was called "number two," Kiba knew his place was beside Hinata, and he was going to make sure it stayed that way.
As the kids left the kitchen, their giggles fading into the hallway, Kiba felt a small sense of relief. Finally, just the adults. He was halfway through his second cinnamon roll when Hinata turned to him with a warm smile.
"So, how's Tamaki doing?" she asked, her eyes bright with genuine interest.
Kiba perked up at the mention of his fiancée. "Oh, she's great! We're actually looking into adopting another cat. You know how much she loves animals."
Sasuke, leaning back in his chair, arched an eyebrow. "Another cat? What are you trying to start, a zoo?"
Kiba's brow twitched. He tried to ignore Sasuke, focusing on Hinata instead. "Well, she loves them, and... it makes her happy."
Sasuke smirked, clearly not letting it go. "Sure, that's not just an excuse because she's tired of having you around?"
Kiba clenched his teeth, feeling his temper flare. "Hey, you got a problem, Sasuke?"
Hinata quickly placed a hand on Kiba's arm, her voice soothing. "Kiba-kun, it's okay. Sasuke, please stop."
Kiba took a deep breath, calming himself down. He wasn't about to make a scene in front of her. Sasuke seemed pleased with himself, and Kiba had to swallow the urge to snap back. He wasn't going to give Sasuke the satisfaction.
When Sasuke excused himself to use the bathroom, Kiba didn't hesitate. He slid into the now-empty chair next to Hinata, feeling triumphant as he reached for another cinnamon roll. Finally, some time alone.
Hinata's eyes softened as she looked at him. "Kiba-kun, do you think you could ever get along with Sasuke?"
Kiba paused, mid-bite. "Nah," he said bluntly, mouth full of cinnamon roll. "I don't like the guy."
Hinata sighed, but there was no disappointment in her eyes, just that patient look she always gave him. He swallowed and decided to ask what had been bugging him. "Am I... still your best friend, Hina-chan?"
She blinked, clearly taken aback. "Of course you are, Kiba-kun. You always will be."
The reassurance felt good, but Kiba still felt the need to say more, to let her know how he'd been feeling about Sasuke muscling in. Just as he opened his mouth to speak, Sasuke returned. Kiba's gaze flicked to him, and he smirked, leaning back as if challenging Sasuke. Bet you want your seat back, don't you?
Sasuke's expression was calm. "I think it's time for us to head out. We just came so Sarada could say thank you for the book."
Hinata looked surprised, already pushing her chair back. "Oh, should I walk you to the door?"
Kiba narrowed his eyes, catching the glance Sasuke threw his way. He didn't bother to hide his glare, hoping Sasuke would see just how much he didn't like him. But Sasuke didn't react; he turned his attention back to Hinata.
"There's no need," Sasuke replied, looking down at Hinata. "We can see ourselves out."
Then it happened—Sasuke smiled. It wasn't the smug smirk Kiba was so used to; it was a genuine smile, the kind that softened his face. Kiba's jaw dropped slightly, and he stared, stunned as he watched the Uchiha gather his daughter and leave. He didn't think the Uchiha even knew how to smile like that... but he did.
Hinata caught him staring, and he felt his cheeks burn. She raised an eyebrow, curious. "Kiba-kun?"
He cleared his throat awkwardly. "Uh, that's... the first time I've ever seen him smile."
Hinata chuckled softly. "Oh, Sasuke smiles a lot."
Kiba blinked, shocked. "You serious?"
She nodded, her eyes warm. "Yes, he's not what he seems. He's actually very considerate and kind."
Kiba scoffed, crossing his arms. "Just because I saw him smile doesn't mean I like him."
Hinata sighed, but she didn't press the issue. Kiba felt grateful for that. He didn't want to think about it anymore. What mattered was spending time with his friend. He leaned back in the chair, trying to relax. "So, what's been going on with you lately, Hina-chan?"
Hinata's expression brightened as she began to talk, and Kiba felt the tension melt away. He smiled warmly, focusing on her words, on the familiar comfort of her voice. For now, there was no Sasuke, no competition—just him and his best friend. And that was all he needed.
XXXXXXXX
Later that night…
The night air was thick but bearable, a welcome change from the stifling heat of July's daylight in Konoha. Sasuke stood in the center of the training field, his eyes scanning the shadows as the soft hum of cicadas filled the air. The moon hung high, casting a silver sheen over the trees, while the rustling leaves provided a gentle backdrop to the rhythmic sounds of his movements. His breath was steady, controlled, as he executed each strike with precision.
The warmth clung to his skin, sweat beading at his temples. Despite the lingering heat, the night breeze brushed coolly against him, offering brief moments of relief as he pushed his body through another set of maneuvers. Training under the stars had always been his preference—quiet, solitary, and free of distractions. It was when he felt most like himself.
After another flurry of strikes, he paused, lowering his blade and breathing deeply. He reached for the water bottle he'd set aside earlier, taking a long, refreshing drink. The cool water trickled down his throat, soothing the dryness there. As he wiped the sweat from his brow, his thoughts drifted back to earlier that evening.
Kiba.
Sasuke's eyes narrowed slightly as he thought of the man's flustered expression, the way his fists had clenched, and how his face had turned red with every sarcastic jab. It was almost too easy to rile him up. Sometimes, Sasuke wondered if Kiba even realized how transparent his emotions were. The guy was like a toddler throwing a tantrum—amusing and annoying all at once.
He took another sip of water, feeling the cool liquid settle in his stomach as he leaned back against a nearby tree, its bark rough beneath his hand. He hadn't planned on staying long at Hinata's earlier; he knew Kiba's routine by now, and he could tell the guy was itching for a moment alone with her. So, he'd left, deciding it was best to give him that space. Let him have his time, Sasuke thought. If it made Kiba feel better, then so be it.
But the way Kiba reacted to every little thing, every teasing comment, was almost too much. Sasuke couldn't resist pushing his buttons, even if it was petty. There was just something about Kiba's overreactions that he found both ridiculous and oddly satisfying. It was like watching someone walk into the same trap over and over again.
He smirked to himself, already anticipating Hinata's gentle but firm scolding the next time they spoke alone. He could practically hear her voice, the way she would sigh and tell him he shouldn't be so harsh. And maybe she had a point, but it wasn't like he'd said anything that cruel. Honestly, anything he said seemed to set Kiba off.
To Sasuke, it didn't matter much. Kiba's outbursts were predictable, and while they could be annoying, they were also easy to brush off. He doubted anything he did would ever change Kiba's attitude toward him any time soon. So, why not have a little fun with it?
As Sasuke's thoughts drifted from Kiba, they naturally settled on Sarada. He felt relieved that their recent conversation had gone well. But the next conversation would be harder. He needed to speak with Sakura directly, to put an end to any lingering hopes she might still hold. As harsh as it sounded in his own head, he knew he would never get back together with her. The constant jealousy, the mistrust—it had driven a wedge between them that no amount of time apart could repair. They were better off as co-parents, not partners. Sasuke's jaw tightened slightly at the thought, but he knew it was necessary.
He decided it was time to head home. The streets of Konoha were mostly empty, just the way he preferred them. The daytime crowds always made him uncomfortable—too many eyes, too much noise. The stillness of the night, with only the occasional rustle of leaves or distant footsteps, was where he found his peace.
As he walked, he passed by a familiar food stand, its warm lights illuminating the path. Sasuke wasn't much of a cook, and though he occasionally tried his best, the ease of buying meals was a comfort. The stand owner, an elderly man, spotted him and gave a nod.
"Ah, Sasuke! The usual?" the man asked, already reaching for the ingredients.
Sasuke nodded. "Yeah, thanks."
The exchange was brief, just a few words about the weather and the quietness of the night. It was the kind of conversation Sasuke liked—simple and undemanding. With a bag of freshly prepared food in hand, he continued his walk back home, the smell of the meal reminding him of simpler times.
When he finally reached his apartment, he let out a sigh of relief. The familiar space was quiet, a sanctuary where he could unwind. He set his meal down, intending to relax and enjoy the solitude. But just as he began to unwind, a knock echoed through the room, loud and unexpected.
Frowning, Sasuke moved to the door. It was late—too late for casual visits. Only a handful of people knew where he lived, and most of them wouldn't be stopping by at this hour. Confused and already feeling a twinge of annoyance, he opened the door.
To his surprise, it wasn't just one familiar face, but three. Suigetsu stood there, his trademark grin plastered on his face, with Karin and Juugo behind him. Sasuke blinked, momentarily speechless.
"Suigetsu? Karin? Juugo?" he asked, narrowing his eyes. "What are you doing here? And how did you find out where I live?"
Suigetsu wasted no time barging in, his grin widening. "We have our ways, you know. You think you can hide from me, Sasuke?" Juugo followed, looking apologetic.
"Sorry, Sasuke. We asked your old sensei," Juugo explained quietly.
Sasuke felt his irritation spike. "Kakashi..." he muttered under his breath. He'd deal with that later. Right now, he had a more immediate issue. "What are you all doing here?" he asked, glaring at Suigetsu. "And I didn't invite you inside."
Suigetsu waved off the comment, his grin undeterred. "Lighten up, man! Your birthday's coming up, and we wanted to spend some time with you. You should be grateful—we haven't all been together like this in years. Your boring Team Seven isn't your only team, ya know?"
Sasuke's frown deepened, but he watched as Juugo and Karin stepped inside. He let out a sigh, closing the door behind them. "I just got home. I'm tired, and I was about to eat and then sleep."
"That's fine," Suigetsu shrugged, unfazed. "We won't be loud."
Sasuke pinched the bridge of his nose, trying to suppress the frustration bubbling inside. Suigetsu's voice was like nails on a chalkboard, and the fact that his solitude was being invaded so casually made him want to kick them all out. Just as he was about to insist they leave, Karin spoke up, her voice softer than usual.
"We're sorry, Sasuke-kun," she said, glancing down. "If you really want, we can go. We just... wanted to surprise you. We thought you wouldn't mind."
Sasuke sighed again, feeling the tension in his shoulders ease, if only slightly. He had grown used to being alone, with only Sarada as his regular visitor. It was comfortable, predictable. But there were still moments, like tonight, when he felt the pang of nostalgia—thinking back to the brief time he'd spent in a bustling home, whether it was at Naruto's before the divorce or when he'd lived with Sakura and Sarada. Even now, there were nights when he missed the feeling of a house filled with people.
But the thought of all three of his former teammates under his roof as adults was... daunting. He glanced at Suigetsu, who still looked hopeful, Juugo, who appeared apologetic, and Karin, who kept her eyes averted.
"Fine," he muttered, rubbing the back of his neck.
Suigetsu pumped a fist in the air. "See? I knew you missed us!"
Sasuke rolled his eyes, already regretting his decision. "Don't push it." But even as he grumbled, a small part of him felt the faintest flicker of warmth at having them all together again.
Sasuke walked back into the kitchen, already feeling the headache forming when he heard the shuffling footsteps behind him. He sighed as he dropped into his chair, setting his food in front of him and eyeing his former teammates. Juugo hovered in the doorway, his large frame leaning casually against the wall, while Suigetsu, with no sense of boundaries as usual, made himself at home by rummaging through Sasuke's fridge.
"Man, you barely have anything in here," Suigetsu complained, pulling out a half-empty carton of milk and giving it a skeptical look. "I guess now that you're a bachelor, no one's around to cook for you, huh?"
Sasuke didn't bother responding. Instead, he focused on his meal, keeping his eyes down. He knew engaging Suigetsu would only encourage him further.
Karin, sitting across the table, folded her hands and looked at him with a mix of curiosity and concern. "Are you doing okay... since the divorce?"
Sasuke paused, glancing at her for a moment. Before he could say anything, Suigetsu rolled his eyes and muttered, "Here we go..."
Karin snapped, her voice sharp. "What's that supposed to mean, huh?"
Their voices began to rise, tension simmering between them. Sasuke put down his chopsticks, his eyes narrowing as he gave them both a warning look. "Quiet."
Suigetsu raised his hands in mock surrender, muttering, "Alright, alright." He resumed rummaging through the fridge, clearly uninterested in letting the conversation drop.
Sasuke's gaze returned to Karin, who was still watching him expectantly. She wanted an answer, and he knew she wouldn't let it go until she got one. "I'm managing," he said, his tone flat. It was a vague response, but it seemed to partially satisfy her, as she gave a small nod and didn't press further.
Suigetsu eventually pulled out a small tub of ice cream, his eyes lighting up. "Bingo!" he exclaimed, ready to dig in.
Sasuke's eyes hardened. "Don't touch that. It's Sarada's."
Suigetsu whined, slumping dramatically. "Aw, come on, just a little—"
"No," Sasuke cut him off, his glare firm.
"Fine, fine," Suigetsu huffed, putting the ice cream back. "You live like a poor man anyway. I'm gonna go get something to eat. I'll be back."
Juugo, always the mediator, offered, "Need any help?"
"Yeah, sure," Suigetsu said, and the two of them left, promising to return later.
Sasuke watched them go, feeling the tension in his shoulders ease slightly. But when he turned back to Karin, he realized they were alone. She was studying him closely, and the atmosphere grew quieter, heavier.
He hadn't seen Karin much since Sarada's birth. After that, their paths had rarely crossed, and he had ended things with her long before to pursue a future with Sakura. Now, as he looked at her, he couldn't help but compare the Karin he saw now to the one he remembered from years ago.
Back when Team Hebi was first formed, he'd found Karin's attitude confusing and, at times, annoying. She was headstrong and bold, especially when Suigetsu was around to provoke her. But he'd come to learn that her behavior masked the embarrassment she felt. When it was just the two of them, her demeanor softened, and he'd seen a side of her that was gentler, more vulnerable. Suigetsu's constant teasing had often made her hide that part of herself.
When he'd first left Konoha to travel, Karin had been the one who joined him eventually. Over time, he grew to appreciate her company, and things had happened between them—things that, even now, lingered at the back of his mind. She had been his first time, and while he didn't regret it, those memories felt distant, overshadowed by the complications with Sakura later. Sakura's jealousy over his past with Karin had bled into their marriage, fueling insecurities that eventually led to larger issues.
He could feel Karin's eyes on him as he ate, but he pretended not to notice. When he finished, he stood up, avoiding her gaze. "I'm going to take a shower and head to bed. There are blankets in the closet down the hall if you need them. Sleep whenever you want, just not in Sarada's room. Be sure to tell Suigetsu and Juugo that when they come back."
Just as he was about to leave the kitchen, her voice stopped him. "It's nice seeing you again."
He paused, silence hanging in the air between them. For a moment, he considered not saying anything. But something pushed him to speak. "Don't tell anyone you're staying here," he said, his voice low. "Especially not Sakura. The last thing I need is her thinking I was lying about not seeing anyone after the divorce."
He didn't wait for a response. Without a backward glance, he left the kitchen, leaving Karin alone in the quiet, empty space.
XXXXXXX
July 17th
Gaara walked through the gates of Konoha, the warm summer air wrapping around him. It had been a few weeks since his last visit, but the familiar stares that followed him as he walked down the busy roads felt unchanged. His brother, Kankuro, walked beside him, casually nodding at the people they passed, but Gaara's focus remained straight ahead. The crowds, the whispers—he had long since learned to ignore them.
He was here for one purpose: to speak with Naruto. The letter he had received from Hinata was troubling, and he hadn't heard a word from his friend since. It had been almost a month, and Gaara wasn't one to wait idly for answers. If Naruto wouldn't come to him, he would come to Naruto.
As Gaara and Kankuro approached the Hokage Tower, the reaction from the staff was immediate. People exchanged nervous glances, and whispers rippled through the hallways. It wasn't often that the Kazekage arrived unannounced. When they reached the entrance, an office worker stepped forward, her eyes wide with alarm.
"Kazekage-sama, Hokage-sama wasn't expecting you today," she said, her voice wavering. "He's quite busy at the moment, and—"
Gaara's expression remained impassive as he continued walking. "I'm aware," he said curtly, heading for the staircase that led to Naruto's office. He wasn't in the mood for pleasantries or delays. He had been upset with his friend for weeks, and the silence was unacceptable. An apology was owed, and he was going to get it.
The office worker's panic was palpable as she trailed behind. "Kazekage-sama, please—"
Kankuro, with an apologetic smile, placed a hand on her shoulder. "Sorry, but my brother really needs to speak to the Hokage as Naruto Uzumaki, not as the Hokage. Trust me, you're Hokage will understand."
The worker hesitated, clearly torn, but then she nodded and rushed ahead, trying to reach the office before Gaara did. He barely paid her any mind; if anything, it would give Naruto a few seconds to prepare himself. It wouldn't change what Gaara had come to say.
As he approached the door, he heard the worker's breathless voice. "Hokage-sama, the Kazekage is walking up to your office!"
There was a moment of silence before Gaara stepped into the doorway, his eyes locking onto Naruto's. The blond man's body tensed, and for a second, Gaara saw the nerves flicker across his friend's face. Naruto swallowed but forced a bright smile. "Gaara! What brings you to Konoha?"
Gaara glanced at the office worker, who hastily announced her departure and practically ran out of the room. Kankuro's laughter echoed in the hall, and when Gaara turned to him, his brother shrugged and sighed. "I'll leave you two to it," Kankuro said, reluctantly closing the door behind him.
Gaara turned his attention back to Naruto, scanning his body language and the subtle shifts in his expression. His friend was tense, the smile not quite reaching his eyes. Gaara wasn't here to dance around the issue.
"I'm disappointed in you, Naruto," he said bluntly. "Accusing me of something like that? A true friend wouldn't cross that line."
Naruto's smile faded, and a guilty look took its place. He lowered his eyes, rubbing the back of his neck. "I know, Gaara. You're right. I was... I was out of line." He took a deep breath. "Sometimes, I notice things—small things. And when it came to Hinata... I saw it all." He paused, his voice growing softer. "I've always been a jealous guy. I know how beautiful Hinata is, and I guess I just... I felt threatened. I wasn't a good husband to her, and somewhere in the back of my mind, I convinced myself she'd leave me for someone better."
Gaara's eyes widened slightly. Marital problems? He had no idea. Naruto and Hinata had always seemed like the perfect couple. "I didn't know," Gaara said, his voice measured. "But do you really think Hinata would do something like that?"
Naruto shook his head immediately. "No, she wouldn't. She was always loyal... too loyal, honestly."
Gaara nodded, unsurprised by the confirmation. Hinata had always exuded that aura of loyalty and kindness. But as he observed Naruto further, he realized something—his friend had been speaking in the past tense. "Are you and Hinata no longer together?"
Naruto smiled sheepishly, the expression not quite reaching his eyes. "Well... keep it between us, but yeah, we got a divorce."
Gaara's eyes flickered with surprise. "Is that why?"
Naruto nodded. "Yeah. It was the tipping point for her. I think she just had enough of my behavior. But things are better now. We're still... we're still good friends. It was awkward for a few weeks, but we're figuring it out." He forced a grin, but Gaara could see the pain beneath it.
Gaara studied him for a moment before asking, "Are you okay?"
Naruto's nod was firm, but Gaara wasn't convinced. He had known Naruto long enough to recognize when he was putting on a brave face. Even so, Gaara decided not to press further. "For what it's worth," he said quietly, "Hinata and I weren't that close. We only ever talked about flowers, really. I barely know her outside of that."
It was a partial lie. In truth, Gaara had grown to respect and understand Hinata through their interactions, but he didn't want to add to Naruto's burden. This wasn't about him.
Naruto seemed to appreciate the gesture. "You don't have to explain yourself, Gaara. It's okay."
Gaara nodded. "I promise not to say anything. Should I rescind your invitation to my banquet as a couple?"
Naruto shook his head. "No, it's fine. I've already talked to Hinata about it. We'll attend together."
Gaara considered this, wondering if he should extend the offer to Sasuke. "What about Sasuke? Should I invite him? He did help protect our village a few years ago."
Naruto scratched his chin, thinking. "You could, but I don't know if he'd show. He hates events like that—too many people."
Gaara nodded thoughtfully. "I'll think about it."
Naruto brightened, the familiar spark returning to his eyes. "Hey, since you're here, how about I treat you to some ramen? Maybe we can get Shikamaru to join us."
Gaara considered the offer. He and Shikamaru had never been particularly close. They got along, sure, but it wasn't like they talked much outside of their roles. Perhaps spending time together could strengthen their bond. "Alright. I'll take you up on that."
"Great," Naruto said. "I usually have lunch around noon, but today I'm swamped. So, I won't be able to meet you at Ichiraku's until after work."
Gaara accepted this, his mind already shifting to how he would pass the time. "That's fine. I'll use the time to visit my nephew or Lee."
"Perfect," Naruto said, and for a moment, the tension between them seemed to ease.
XXXXXXX
Sasuke woke up with a start, blinking groggily at the light filtering through his window. His head throbbed with annoyance as he realized he'd overslept—something he rarely did. Damn it. He groaned internally. But as his vision cleared, something else caught his attention—a figure lying next to him, their back turned.
He frowned, the haze of sleep quickly dissipating. He threw the blankets off and got out of bed, stalking around to the other side. There, sprawled across his bed, was Karin. Her red hair was a tangled mess, her glasses missing from her face.
Without a hint of gentleness, Sasuke grabbed her shoulder and shook her awake. "Karin," he demanded, his voice low and sharp. "Why are you in my bed?"
Karin jerked awake, startled and confused. She blinked up at him, still half-asleep as her hands fumbled for her glasses. Her face turned a deep shade of red, but she didn't answer immediately.
Sasuke narrowed his eyes, not in the mood for this. "Well?"
"I—I couldn't sleep," she stammered, clearly flustered, her voice hesitant. "I came in the middle of the night and... I woke you up to ask. You said it was okay…"
Sasuke pinched the bridge of his nose, his annoyance growing. "I was probably half-asleep." He forced himself to take a deep breath, trying not to yell. The last thing he needed was more drama in his house. Especially if Suigetsu found out about this.
"Out of my bed in five minutes," he muttered, dismissing her with a wave before turning on his heel. He didn't wait for a response. He needed to cool off, and more than anything, he needed a shower.
As he headed to the bathroom, he passed the kitchen where Juugo was quietly cooking. It was the only part of the late morning that seemed remotely normal. Unfortunately, the bathroom door was closed.
Sasuke knocked, harder than necessary. "Suigetsu, hurry up."
From the other side, he heard Suigetsu's voice, filled with amusement. "It might take a while!"
Sasuke's ears perked at the noises coming from inside—noises that made his face flush with irritation and embarrassment. Great. Just great. He had one bathroom, and of course, Suigetsu was stinking it up, making all kinds of racket.
Shaking his head in frustration, Sasuke stormed back to his room, only to find Karin hadn't moved an inch. She was still lying in his bed, completely unfazed by his earlier demand.
He groaned aloud this time. Of course she didn't move. Not wanting to deal with her any longer, he grabbed a change of clothes from his drawer, and opened a portal. Stepping through, he emerged in a bathroom somewhere else.
After a quick but efficient shower, Sasuke got dressed and opened the bathroom door, only to be face-to-face with Naruto, wearing his Hokage robes. The surprise on Naruto's face was immediate as he stumbled back, letting out a yelp.
"Whoa! Where did you come from?" Naruto asked, his voice full of shock.
"Just got here," Sasuke replied coolly, not bothering to explain the details. The last thing Naruto needed to know was that he had houseguests—including one annoying Suigetsu monopolizing his bathroom. Sasuke preferred to keep that little embarrassment to himself.
Naruto squinted at him, suspicious but too preoccupied to probe further. "Gaara's in town," he said after a beat, as if that explained everything.
Sasuke didn't have much of a reaction. He never engaged with Naruto's other friends much. Shikamaru, Sai—sure, they were around for group events or the occasional guys' night, but Sasuke's circle was small. He stuck to the people he knew, the people he had history with. He rarely spoke to anyone outside of the original Team 7 and Hinata.
Gaara was once an enemy, and though he had transformed into a respected leader of Suna, Sasuke had never taken the time to really get to know him. He respected him, sure, but there was no deep bond between them. Naruto, of course, had made plenty of connections during the years Sasuke was gone, and sometimes that left Sasuke feeling a little… disconnected.
Naruto continued as they walked down the hallway. "So, Gaara's having this banquet in October. He's thinking of inviting you. You should come, Sasuke. You know, mingle, make some new friends. Maybe even a girlfriend," Naruto added slyly, grinning at him.
Sasuke shot him a dark look as he picked up his pace. "Dobe."
Naruto jogged after him, calling out, "Come on, think about it at least!"
Sasuke waved him off without turning around. "Sure."
Sasuke continued down the stairs, passing Shikamaru. They exchanged brief nods, an unspoken acknowledgment between two familiar faces, and then went their separate ways without a word. Sasuke clutched his cloak pocket where he had stuffed the clothes he'd slept in, reminding himself to wash them later.
As he made his way down to the main floor, he caught sight of a familiar face. Irritation clawed at his skin. Without thinking, he quickened his pace, grabbed the figure by the arm, and pulled them aside. "What are you doing here?" he hissed.
The woman flinched, her green eyes locking onto his swirling Sharingan and Rinnegan. Shizuka. Her eyes widened, her body tensing under his grip.
Sasuke's gaze darkened. From what he remembered Hinata telling him, Naruto had even offered to file a restraining order against the woman, but she'd refused. If Naruto had been so serious, Sasuke knew his friend wouldn't have gone back on his word. So why was she here?
Shizuka stammered, her voice shaky. "I-I just wanted to tell Naruto-kun that I'm leaving Konoha."
Sasuke's grip tightened. "You don't need to tell Naruto anything," he snapped. "But what you can do is leave. Now."
Shizuka's eyes welled up with tears, and she pleaded, her voice trembling. "Please, just let me talk to him. I—I only need a moment."
Ticked off, Sasuke glared down at her. He hadn't forgotten what this woman had done. She was the reason Hinata had stayed in a hotel for weeks, and Naruto had confessed to Sasuke, in a drunken state, that he had threatened Shizuka to keep her distance. Sasuke wasn't one to let such things slide.
"Listen," he said, his tone ice-cold. "Naruto doesn't want to see you. He doesn't need to know you're leaving because he doesn't care. He never cared the way you wanted him to. His heart has always belonged to Hinata, and you trying to change that will never work."
Shizuka sniffled, her shoulders trembling as she tried to hold back tears. "I—I just wanted—"
"Enough," Sasuke said, his patience wearing thin. "Leave, Shizuka, and don't come back."
Shizuka's lips quivered, but she finally nodded. "Okay... I'll go." She pulled her arm free and hurried away, disappearing into the crowd.
Sasuke smirked, feeling a sense of satisfaction. As he turned to leave, a familiar voice crept up behind him. "Is she gone?"
Sasuke glanced over his shoulder to see Sai standing there, his expression as unreadable as ever. "Yeah, she's gone," Sasuke confirmed.
Sai nodded, his eyes briefly following Shizuka's path. "Good. If you hadn't chased her away, I was going to. But my methods would have been... less kind."
Sasuke eyed him for a moment. Sai had taken some time to get used to, but Sasuke had come to see him as a solid ally. Sai had a blunt, awkward way about him, but there was no doubting his loyalty. "It's nice to know Naruto has friends who look out for him."
Sai's expression softened slightly. "Naruto often does reckless things like that—having a drink with a girl who's clearly flirting with him, and he's too stupid to notice."
Sasuke's smirk returned. "He needs it pointed out for him. Especially when he's drunk."
Sai laughed lightly. "You're not wrong. I've had to drag him away more times than I can count and tell the girls that the Hyuuga clan would see their flirting and come after them if they didn't back off. The look on their faces..." He shook his head. "Naruto really is dense sometimes."
Sasuke nodded, amused. "Sounds like him."
Sai glanced back toward the gate. "I'm going to follow her to make sure she's really leaving. Take care." With that, Sai disappeared into the crowd, leaving Sasuke alone.
Sasuke continued out of the tower, his hand brushing against the tips of his hair as he walked. He thought about how long it had gotten, the fringe constantly falling into his eyes. Maybe it was time for a trim. He saw enough hair as it was when out and about—maybe he needed a change.
Deciding to act on the impulse, he headed toward Sakura's. He knew today was her off day, so she'd likely be home. When he reached her place, he knocked once before the door flew open. Sakura stood there, looking at him with wide eyes, but her expression was more expectant than surprised.
"Sasuke-kun," she greeted, smiling.
"Are you busy?" he asked.
She shook her head, holding up a book she'd been reading. "Just catching up on some reading. Come in." She stepped aside, gesturing for him to enter. "Sarada's out with her friends, if you were looking for her."
Sasuke shook his head. "I was thinking about that haircut."
Sakura's eyebrows shot up in surprise, but then she smiled. "Oh, really? I can do that. Follow me to the bathroom."
He followed her inside and sat on the toilet, watching as she grabbed a pair of scissors and stood in front of him, her face filled with concentration.
She reached for a lock of his hair, but he quickly added, "Just the front. I want it shorter, out of my eyes."
Sakura's smile faltered slightly. "You don't want to cut all of it shorter?"
Sasuke shook his head. "No. I'm keeping it long for now. Just the front."
Sakura's expression seemed a bit disappointed, but she nodded. "Okay." She set to work, cutting the strands with careful precision. When she finished, Sasuke stood up and glanced in the mirror.
"Looks good, as usual," he said, offering her a rare compliment. He pretended not to notice the faint flush creeping onto her cheeks.
"Thanks, Sasuke-kun," she replied, her voice soft.
"Hair tie?" he asked.
Sakura handed him a black one, hesitating before offering, "Do you want me to tie it for you?"
He nodded, and she moved closer, her fingers gently gathering his hair into a low ponytail. Her hands were slightly shaky, and he could feel the nervous glide of her touch as she secured the tie. When she was done, he didn't bother looking in the mirror. Instead, he looked down at her and said, "Thanks."
She looked up, her eyes meeting his. "Anytime."
Satisfied, he managed to leave without any trouble. She didn't ask him to stay or hang out, and he wondered briefly if Sarada had told her about their recent talk. Maybe she was finally letting go.
As he left Sakura's house, Sasuke felt the cool air brush against his newly trimmed bangs. He touched the shorter strands, pleased with how they no longer blocked his vision. He had half a mind to go straight to Hinata, just to see her reaction. He wanted to hear what she thought, see her smile.
But he decided against it, realizing he had just seen her the other day. He knew she valued her space, and just in case she really was tired of him, he figured he'd give her some distance today.
XXXXXXXX
Hinata sat comfortably on the couch, her eyes on the TV screen, though her mind wandered elsewhere. Hanabi's presence beside her was a rare gift. Between her sister's busy schedule with the clan and their own responsibilities, moments like these didn't happen often. Whenever Hanabi did visit, Hinata cherished it, savoring the chance to relax and reminisce like they used to when they were younger.
As the movie flickered on the screen, Hinata glanced sideways at her sister. "Sasuke mentioned that he ran into you the other day," she said, her voice soft, almost absentminded.
Hanabi's lips curved into the faintest hint of a smile. She turned her white eyes toward Hinata, amusement twinkling in them. "I did," she said simply, her tone giving nothing away.
Hinata raised an eyebrow, sensing there was more to the story. Hanabi often had that look when something amused her, and now was no different. That quiet smile stayed on her lips as she turned her attention back to the TV. "Sarada's really cute," Hanabi continued, her tone casual. "She looks just like her dad, but you can definitely see Sakura in her."
Hinata nodded in agreement, her thoughts drifting. "Yes, she does."
Her mind wandered back to Sasuke's words earlier that day, words that had stayed with her since he'd said them: It's fine, even if she doesn't approve. I'm not going anywhere. The way he had said it made her heart race, and a strange, unfamiliar shiver had run down her spine. She still didn't quite understand why. Sasuke wasn't the kind of person to say things like that, at least not to her. Maybe he had been teasing. He had a habit of doing that, sometimes enough to annoy her, though she could never stay annoyed for long. Their time together always left her feeling light, like she could forget about everything else for a while.
She shook her head slightly, trying to clear the confusing thoughts. "What's that smile for?" she asked, breaking the silence, her curiosity piqued.
Hanabi's eyes sparkled with amusement as she turned back to Hinata. "It's just funny to me," she said, her tone light and teasing. "You became friends with the one person in the village who only has one friend and keeps everyone else at arm's length."
Hinata paused, considering her sister's words. There was some truth to them. Sasuke had always been distant, and even after his return to Konoha, he kept his circle small. Yet, she didn't let the comment sit too long before shaking her head, her voice gentle but firm in her defense of him. "Sasuke isn't like that," she said. "He's just… reserved."
Hanabi shrugged, a playful glint still in her eyes. "Sure. But it just proves that you could befriend anyone, even someone like him."
Hinata pouted, a smile tugging at her lips despite herself. "Hanabi..." she said in a mock-scolding tone, but her sister's teasing grin softened her.
Hinata's thoughts turned inward as she reflected on her friendship with Sasuke. It had grown over time, unexpectedly but naturally. There was something simple, uncomplicated about their bond—no expectations, just mutual understanding. When they trained together, she felt empowered; when they spoke, he listened in a way that made her feel truly heard. It was different from her other relationships, even different from how things had been with Naruto.
There were times she wondered if Sasuke ever grew tired of seeing her as often as he did. She never tired of it. If anything, she found herself looking forward to their moments together, whether it was his dry humor or the rare, genuine smile he gave. There was a quiet comfort in his presence, a feeling she couldn't quite put into words.
As the movie continued, Hinata's eyes softened. She leaned back into the couch, feeling the warmth of the moment. Maybe it was the simple things that made their friendship special—the quiet moments, the mutual understanding, and the way he seemed to show up just when she needed someone. For now, that was enough.
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
Karin makes her appearance, but with Suigetsu and Juugo too. What do you think will happen there?
What are yout thoughts o