So I totally forgot to update FF with the new chapter! Chapter 27 is already finished. I'll post that tomorrow!
XXXXXXX
Kiba grinned, watching Hinata laugh as she sipped on her chocolate milkshake. They were seated outside a small restaurant, the sun shining down warmly on them. Akamaru lay at his feet, his head resting on Kiba's leg. He looked down at his old companion and felt a tug at his heart. Akamaru was slowing down, his once boundless energy now more tempered, and it concerned him. His sister had told him that the reason Akamaru was still going strong was because of all the love and care he'd been given over the years.
He leaned down, giving his dog's fur a gentle ruffle before turning his attention back to Hinata. "So, how's everything going? Life treating you well?"
Hinata smiled softly, setting her milkshake down. "Busy, but good. How's Tamaki? Is she feeling any better?"
Kiba's face lit up. "Yeah, thanks to that soup you helped me with, her cold finally kicked the bucket. You should've seen her after she ate it, all better in no time!" He puffed up his chest a little, proud of himself. "I swear, I'm a natural caregiver."
Hinata chuckled, amused. "I'm glad to hear she's feeling better. I'll have to visit her soon."
"Yeah, she'll love that. But I gotta say, I heard all about girls' night." Kiba waggled his eyebrows. "Apparently, you're still a lightweight, huh? Did you make it home okay, or did you pass out somewhere?"
Hinata's smile faltered for a moment, and she flinched at his teasing. Kiba, narrowed his eyes in concern. "Hey, you alright?"
She bit her bottom lip, her eyes shifting away from his gaze. She mumbled something under her breath, but it was too soft for Kiba to catch. "What was that? Speak up, Hina-chan," he urged gently.
Hinata hesitated, her fingers fidgeting nervously before she finally spoke again, her voice barely above a whisper. "I kissed Sasuke that night."
Kiba's reaction was immediate and loud. "WHAT?!"
Heads turned in their direction, and even Akamaru whimpered at Kiba's sudden outburst. Hinata immediately grabbed his arm, her face flushed with embarrassment. "Kiba-kun, please!"
Kiba's cheeks turned red, realizing just how loud he'd been. He leaned in, now whispering, "Did I hear that right? You kissed Sasuke?"
Hinata nodded, her expression embarrassed and full of regret. Kiba leaned back in his chair, his mouth slightly open in disbelief. He thought back to all the times he had seen Sasuke and Hinata together. How they interacted, how close they'd become. He remembered the jealousy he felt when Hinata had explained her friendship with Sasuke was different from her friendship with him. He had been so caught up in his own feelings, he hadn't even considered that Hinata might have a crush on the guy.
"Wow…I, uh…I didn't see that coming," he muttered, rubbing the back of his neck. He could feel the heat of embarrassment rising in his chest. How had he missed this?
"Is everything okay between you two?" he asked carefully, gauging her reaction.
Hinata gave a weak shrug. "I think…it's okay."
Kiba frowned. He knew Hinata better than that. She wore her emotions so openly, and Sasuke? Well, Sasuke wasn't exactly Mr. Empathy. "What happened when you kissed him?" Kiba pressed, though he already suspected the answer.
Hinata sighed, looking down at the table as if the weight of the world rested on her shoulders. "I was rejected," she whispered. "He didn't even kiss me back."
Kiba's heart sank at her words. He reached across the table and placed his hand over hers, squeezing it gently. "Sasuke's a jerk anyway. You deserve better than him."
Hinata tried to smile, but it didn't reach her eyes, and Kiba could feel how much it pained her. He wished there was something more he could do, something to make that hurt go away.
"You want me to have a little chat with him?" Kiba offered, half-joking, half-serious. "Maybe knock some sense into that guy for breaking my little sister's heart."
Hinata's eyes widened, and she shook her head furiously. "No! Please don't do anything, Kiba-kun."
Kiba chuckled, trying to lighten the mood. "I'm just kidding, don't worry. But really, how are you holding up?"
Hinata was quiet for a moment, picking at the edge of her sandwich. "As well as I can," she said softly. "It's hard, pretending like nothing happened. And now…" She paused, glancing at him briefly before continuing. "Karin's staying with Sasuke. He said they're not together, but it still…hurts."
Kiba blinked, confused. "Wait, what? Staying with him?"
Hinata gave him a pointed look, and Kiba's eyes slowly widened. "Oh…oh!" His face flushed with embarrassment as he realized what she was implying.
"He told you that?" Kiba asked, frowning.
Hinata nodded slowly. "He was honest with me, and I'm thankful for that, but…it still hurt."
Kiba felt his temper rising. He stood up suddenly, his chair scraping against the ground. "I'll kill him!" he growled, startling Akamaru. "Not only did he reject you, but he had the nerve to tell you he's with someone else?"
Hinata reached out, tugging on his arm. "No, Kiba-kun! It's not like that. He didn't outright say it, but it was implied."
"That's still messed up!" Kiba snapped, still fuming. "That's like if you confessed to Naruto, and he turned you down, saying 'Sorry, but I've been sleeping with Sakura!'"
Hinata paled at the comparison. "It's not the same," she protested weakly.
Kiba crossed his arms, still grumbling. "It's close enough."
He knew he was overreacting a bit, and he understood Sasuke had every right to reject her if he didn't feel the same, but seeing Hinata like this made him want to punch something. He hated seeing her so hurt, and he wanted nothing more than to bring that light back into her eyes.
Hinata picked up her sandwich and took a small bite, clearly trying to compose herself. After a few moments of silence, she glanced at Kiba. "I'll be fine," she reassured him quietly. "You don't need to worry."
Kiba opened his mouth to respond when suddenly, as if summoned by their conversation, Sasuke appeared in front of their table.
Kiba growled lowly, already gearing up to unleash his frustrations, but Hinata shot him a warning look, practically begging him not to say anything. Reluctantly, Kiba huffed and decided to keep his mouth shut—for now.
Sasuke glanced at Kiba briefly before turning his focus to Hinata. "I've been looking for you," he said, his voice low. "We were supposed to train an hour ago."
Kiba glanced at Hinata, noticing how she tensed up, avoiding Sasuke's gaze. She was trying to come up with an excuse, clearly uncomfortable with the situation.
Sasuke, on the other hand, looked…different. There was no sharp retort or his usual dry humor. Instead, he seemed almost…lost.
Wanting to give Hinata an out, Kiba jumped in. "That's my fault," he said, standing up. "I held her up."
Sasuke glanced at him, then back to Hinata, who was now focusing intently on her milkshake. After a pause, Sasuke sighed softly, looking almost…defeated. "It's fine," he muttered. "Sorry for bothering you."
Kiba was surprised at how soft Sasuke's voice sounded, almost sad. He hadn't even called him "number two," which made the whole situation feel even more awkward.
As Kiba watched Sasuke press his lips together, he found himself feeling a bit conflicted. Even though Sasuke had hurt Hinata, it was clear that the Uchiha cared about her. Maybe Sasuke wasn't as oblivious to his own feelings as Kiba had thought.
Sighing to himself, Kiba decided to give them some space. He stood, calling Akamaru to follow him. As he passed Sasuke, he leaned in and whispered, "You owe me one, Princess," his voice carrying a warning, even though he wasn't directly addressing what had happened, ignoring Sasuke's confusion.
Stuffing his hands in his pockets, Kiba walked over to Hinata and patted her head gently. "I'll see you around later," he said, ignoring the frown she gave him. "And make sure to kick his ass during your training, okay?"
He winked at her, hoping that at least she could release some of her frustrations during their sparring session.
As he walked away, Kiba couldn't help but glance over his shoulder, watching the two of them. He just hoped they'd figure things out sooner rather than later.
XXXXXXX
At the training grounds, Hinata and Sasuke stood a few yards apart, the silence between them palpable. Their walk to the training grounds had been awkward—Hinata had barely spoken, offering only short, polite replies to Sasuke's attempts at conversation. She could feel the weight of his eyes on her, and every time he tried to speak, she felt guilt rise in her chest for shutting him down. She could tell he was making an effort, but she wasn't ready.
When Sasuke finally asked if she was ready to start, Hinata didn't wait. She immediately charged at him, her Byakugan flaring to life as she closed the distance between them.
The air cracked with the force of her attacks as she launched herself at him, her palms glowing with chakra as she executed her signature Gentle Fist style. Sasuke barely had time to react, raising his arm to block her first strike. Even then, the impact sent him skidding back a few steps, his balance momentarily thrown off.
Hinata smirked, feeling a thrill rush through her. She wasn't holding back. For once, she wanted Sasuke to feel the weight of every punch, every kick she delivered. Each time he stumbled, she could feel a strange satisfaction bubbling within her. This wasn't just sparring; this was her letting out every frustration she had bottled up.
Sasuke managed to deflect another strike, pivoting on his heel to counter with a swift kick, but Hinata blocked it easily, following up with a flurry of strikes aimed at his chakra points. He dodged, barely keeping up with the speed and precision of her movements.
"You're really gunning for me today," Sasuke said, smirking as he blocked another palm thrust aimed at his chest.
Hinata didn't respond, but she couldn't help the small smirk that tugged at the corner of her lips as she continued her relentless assault. For once, she had the upper hand, and it felt...empowering.
They danced across the training ground, exchanging blows. Hinata's Gentle Fist was graceful yet deadly, while Sasuke's movements were calculated and fluid. A few times, her strikes came so close that he had to jump back, almost losing his footing. She was faster, sharper today—driven.
Finally, with one well-timed strike, Hinata landed a powerful blow to Sasuke's chest, sending him flying backward. He collided with a tree, a grunt escaping his lips as he hit the ground, clutching his chest where her chakra had impacted him.
Hinata slowed, watching him from a distance, her breath heavy. She could see the bruise already forming under his shirt. As she approached him, trying to hide her victorious smile, she held out her hand to help him up.
Sasuke glanced at her hand, then back up at her face. With a slight chuckle, he accepted her offer, pulling himself to his feet. "You didn't seem distracted this time," he remarked, a hint of admiration in his voice.
Hinata blushed slightly at the compliment, her heart still pounding from the fight. "Thanks," she muttered, trying to remain calm. Her mind briefly flashed back to Kiba's words about kicking Sasuke's ass. She hadn't planned on going all out, but clearly, she had.
Sasuke unbuttoned his shirt slightly, revealing the bruise on his chest. "You really got me good," he said, wincing slightly as he touched the darkening spot.
Hinata couldn't suppress her smile as she glanced down at the bruise. "I'm sorry..." she said, though there was a playful tone in her voice that didn't quite match her words.
Sasuke raised an eyebrow. "You don't sound very sorry." He smirked, his voice low and teasing.
Hinata's face flushed with embarrassment. "Maybe not a hundred percent," she admitted, glancing away. But seeing the bruise, she added, "You should get that looked at. Sakura might be able to help."
Sasuke waved her off. "You did this, you should heal it."
Hinata narrowed her eyes, catching onto his teasing. She sighed but agreed. "Fine," she said, motioning for him to sit down against the tree. As he sat, she knelt beside him and began focusing her chakra to heal the bruise.
As she worked, there was a thick silence between them, though she could feel Sasuke's eyes on her. She glanced up, catching him staring at her. His gaze was intense, but not in a way that made her uncomfortable—more like he was trying to figure something out.
"Why are you staring at me?" she asked softly, her eyes flicking back to his chest as she continued healing him.
Sasuke was quiet for a moment before answering. "Are you okay?"
Hinata's hands faltered slightly as she worked, but she quickly composed herself. "I'm fine," she replied, though her heart wasn't fully in it. "Are you okay?"
Sasuke hesitated, and then he said, "I'm alright, but I'm worried about you."
Hinata bit her lip, her hands still glowing with healing chakra. She exhaled softly. "If you keep bringing it up, I won't be okay. You've been asking me that for days now. I appreciate the concern, but..." She trailed off, focusing on his chest again.
Suddenly, her eyes caught something—a faint red mark on Sasuke's neck, barely visible. A hickey. Her heart twisted in her chest, jealousy and hurt bubbling up inside her. She finished healing him quickly, standing up and stepping back. "It should be fine now," she said, her voice a bit too tight. "But you might want to get it checked at the hospital, just in case."
"Hinata," Sasuke called out.
She jumped slightly, not expecting him to speak. "Yes?"
He stood up, his expression serious. "We need to talk about...this awkwardness between us."
She swallowed hard, her gaze fixed on a spot on the ground. "I don't know what to say."
He stepped closer. "I know I said I want things to go back to how they were, but maybe I'm being selfish. I didn't consider how hard this must be for you." Sasuke at her, buttoning his shirt slowly. "Are you sure you're alright?" he asked again, his voice careful.
Hinata's eyes darted away from him, focusing on anything but his face. "Yes," she snapped, her emotions getting the better of her. When he didn't respond, she glanced back at him and, feeling her resolve crumbling, blurted out, "It's just...I confessed to you, and you rejected me. Then I find out you've been...with Karin, and seeing that hickey doesn't exactly make things easier."
Sasuke blinked, looking startled and uncharacteristically awkward. He rubbed the back of his neck, clearly caught off guard. "That's not...I didn't know that was there," he muttered, his face turning slightly red. He looked down, visibly embarrassed.
"It stings, Sasuke," Hinata said quietly, her voice raw with emotion. "I've been trying, but it's hard."
Sasuke sighed heavily, running his hand through his hair. "I understand," he admitted softly. "Maybe I've been selfish, wanting things to go back to how they were. But I don't want to lose what we have, Hinata."
Hinata bit her lip, her heart aching. "I just...I wish I'd never said anything."
Sasuke didn't say anything for a moment, and then, almost hesitantly, he asked, "Why do you like me?"
Hinata blinked, caught off guard. She met his gaze, searching for the right words. "Because...you're strong and determined," she began softly. "But also kind in your own way. You've been there for me when I needed someone, even when I didn't ask. You make me want to be better, to push myself. And...when I'm with you, I feel understood."
He looked away, a faint blush dusting his cheeks. A small smile tugged at his lips. It was a rare, almost bashful expression that made her heart skip a beat.
"I don't want our friendship to end," she continued. "I truly value it. But you have to understand that it will take time for me to...adjust. Things can't just go back to normal overnight."
He met her eyes again, his expression earnest. "I get it," he said quietly.
Without warning, he reached out and gently tapped her forehead with two fingers. Surprised, she frowned and covered the spot with her hand. "What was that for?"
He chuckled softly. "Thank you. For being honest with me. It means a lot." His gaze softened. "I'm sorry I can't return your feelings, but you are important to me. That won't change."
Heat rushed to her face, and she quickly looked away. "Stop poking my forehead," she mumbled.
Sasuke smirked but didn't reply right away. Hinata noticed him raise his hand to his neck, the soft glow of chakra flickering around his fingers. Within seconds, the red mark—the hickey—faded away, leaving only smooth, unblemished skin behind.
"You didn't have to do that," Hinata said quietly, trying not to let her relief show.
Sasuke glanced at her, his expression unreadable. "I didn't even know it was there," he admitted, then added with a casual shrug, "Besides, I didn't like the way you looked when you saw it."
Hinata's face flushed with a mixture of frustration and embarrassment. "I wasn't...I mean, it's none of my business," she stammered, folding her arms defensively. She hated how easily he could fluster her, especially with that teasing nature of his. It was just who he was—always making things harder for her without realizing it.
Sasuke let out a small chuckle, leaning against the tree with his usual calm demeanor. "You know, I could have healed myself earlier," he remarked, eyes flicking toward her. "But since you were the one who hurt me, I figured you should be the one to fix it."
Hinata blinked, momentarily taken aback. She glared at him, feeling the frustration bubble up again. "So that's why you made me heal you?" she asked, narrowing her eyes. "You could've done it yourself the whole time?"
"Maybe," Sasuke replied, his smirk deepening, clearly enjoying her reaction. "But you're the one who gave me the bruise, so it's only fair."
Hinata clenched her fists at her sides, torn between feeling guilty and wanting to smack that smug look off his face. "You're impossible," she muttered, though she couldn't stop the small, reluctant smile that tugged at her lips.
Sasuke chuckled again, his tone light. "You wouldn't have wanted me to keep that hickey either, right?" He raised an eyebrow, clearly amused as he pointed to where the mark had been. "I'm just trying to keep you happy."
Hinata's face turned a deeper shade of red. "I—" She struggled to find the words, her frustration growing. "It's not about me being happy! You didn't have to do it just because...because I pointed it out."
"You seemed bothered by it. And, well...I guess it's better not to keep any...misunderstandings between us."
Hinata looked away, her heart pounding in her chest. Why did he have to make things so difficult? His teasing only made it harder for her to manage her feelings. But despite her frustrations, a tiny part of her appreciated that he cared enough to notice. He had removed the mark for her.
"Besides," he added, "you're a better healer than I am."
Hinata's lips pressed together, fighting the urge to both smile and scream. Sasuke had a way of making things both clearer and more complicated at the same time.
Hinata's chest tightened with a tangle of jealousy, frustration, and something else she couldn't quite place as Sasuke turned and began walking away. Why had it bothered her so much to see that hickey? She knew Sasuke wasn't hers to feel possessive over, but the mark had made her stomach churn in ways she hated to admit. It wasn't fair. He had rejected her, and yet the idea of Karin being close to him made her feel like a fool.
She glanced at him briefly, seemingly unburdened by the complicated web of emotions that weighed her down. A part of her was grateful he had removed the mark—it felt like a small acknowledgment of her feelings. But another part of her couldn't shake the suspicion that he had done it more for his own benefit than hers, especially since he hadn't even known it was there until she pointed it out.
But when Sasuke paused to look over his shoulder, his voice breaking her thoughts, it startled her. "Are you coming?" he asked, his tone nonchalant as if the world hadn't just shifted for her.
"Where to?" she asked, hesitant, her voice quiet.
He gave that sly smile of his, the one that made her heart skip even though she wished it wouldn't. "It's a surprise."
Hinata hesitated for a moment, torn between her feelings and the tension still lingering between them. But, she found herself falling in step behind him. She tried to clear her mind, but the sight of that hickey kept resurfacing in her thoughts.
As they walked, she couldn't stop herself from speaking, her voice barely above a whisper. "You really didn't have to remove it if you didn't want to."
Sasuke shrugged, not breaking his stride. "I wanted to," he replied casually. Then he added with a bit more thought, "Besides, can you imagine me walking around with that in plain sight? The idiot would never let it go. Plus...other complications. I'll have a talk with Karin."
Hinata glanced at him from the side, her jealousy flaring up again despite his words. He acted so nonchalant about it, and it frustrated her to no end.
"Are you really not dating her?" she asked, the words slipping out before she could stop herself. She knew she probably shouldn't ask, but she needed to hear it from him—again.
He snorted lightly, giving her a brief look. "I wouldn't lie to you," he said, his voice carrying a tone of sincerity.
Hinata bit her lip, feeling her cheeks flush with embarrassment. She wanted to believe him, but the image of Karin in his home lingered in her mind.
"I didn't think you were the type to do that s-sort of thing when not committed to a relationship..." she mumbled, her voice faltering. The words felt clumsy on her tongue, but they reflected the confusion swirling inside her.
For a brief moment, Sasuke looked a bit embarrassed himself, glancing away. "Do you really want to discuss my...personal life right now?" he asked, his voice quieter. Then, as if realizing how awkward the topic had become, he added, "Sorry. It's awkward, and you're the last person I want to talk about Karin with."
Hinata tried to smile, though the frustration still bubbled beneath the surface. "It's okay," she said, but inside, the mixture of emotions was harder to manage. The jealousy gnawed at her, even though she knew she had no right to feel that way. He had removed the hickey for her sake—hadn't he? Or was it more for his own convenience, to avoid Naruto's teasing and other complications? She wasn't sure. Either way, it had stung seeing it, knowing he had been intimate with someone else, even if they weren't in a relationship.
And despite all of it, she appreciated his gesture. Sasuke had noticed her discomfort, and in his own way, he had tried to make it right. That, at least, meant something. But it didn't change the fact that her feelings for him only seemed to make everything more difficult.
They walked in silence until they reached a secluded clearing. Hinata gasped softly. The area was filled with blooming lavender flowers, their scent filling the air. In the center was a small picnic setup with a basket and a blanket.
"Sasuke...what is this?" she asked, her eyes wide with surprise.
He rubbed the back of his neck. "I figured things have been...rough lately. I thought it might help to create some good memories instead of dwelling on the bad."
Her heart swelled at the gesture. A genuine smile spread across her face, brighter than any she'd worn in days. "Thank you," she whispered.
He smirked slightly, relief evident in his eyes. "Well, don't get used to it."
She laughed softly, a playful glint in her eyes. "I won't. Wouldn't want you going soft on me."
He sighed dramatically. "Too late for that, apparently."
For the first time in days, Hinata felt a sense of normalcy returning. Maybe things wouldn't be the same as before, but perhaps they could find a new balance.
XXXXXXXX
Naruto sat at his desk, eyes locked on the door as Boruto and his team entered. His son strode in with the same energy that always filled him with pride, but today, Naruto could hardly summon the feeling. The smile he plastered on his face felt brittle, but he made it wide for his son's sake. "Welcome back!" he called, his voice sounding brighter than he felt.
Boruto began describing the mission, detailing their encounter with bandits and how they managed to recover the stolen supplies. The rest of his team chimed in, filling in the gaps of the mission's success, but Naruto found himself zoning out, nodding along out of habit rather than genuine interest.
When Boruto finished, Naruto gave them all a thumbs-up. "Great job, guys. I'm proud of you. Go get some rest."
As the team filed out of his office, Naruto's smile faded, dropping from his face like a stone. He watched Boruto disappear down the hall, then let out a long, tired breath. Leaning back in his chair, he closed his eyes for a moment, feeling the weight of his exhaustion settle in. It wasn't just the work—it was everything else too. The loneliness, the gnawing emptiness that he had tried so hard to ignore.
The hours of the day blurred past him, consumed by a steady stream of tasks and paperwork. Naruto moved through them mechanically, his mind elsewhere. He tried to focus, but the words on the scrolls seemed to swim before his eyes. By the time evening rolled around, he barely remembered what he had accomplished.
When the workday was finally over, Naruto left the Hokage Tower and made his way home, his steps slow and heavy. He reached his front door, the key in his hand, but something made him pause. He stood there for a long moment, staring at the door, before he turned on his heel and began walking again—this time, to a place where he hoped he could find some comfort.
Naruto didn't stop walking until he reached a familiar door. He raised his hand to knock, hesitating for just a second before his knuckles rapped lightly against the wood.
The door swung open, and there stood Iruka, his face lighting up in surprise. "Naruto? What a nice surprise!"
Naruto smiled awkwardly, rubbing the back of his neck. "Hey, Iruka-sensei."
Iruka's warm smile widened, and he stepped aside. "Come in, come in!"
Naruto walked inside, the warmth of Iruka's home immediately enveloping him. Iruka had always been more than a teacher to him—he was the closest thing Naruto had ever had to a father. As a kid, Naruto had looked up to him, clung to his guidance, and even now, when things felt overwhelming, Iruka was the person he turned to.
They sat down at the table in the small dining room, the familiar space making Naruto feel a bit more at ease. Iruka poured tea for both of them and sat across from him, his gaze steady. "So, what brings you here?" he asked gently, as though sensing something was weighing on Naruto's mind.
Naruto hesitated for a moment, his fingers fidgeting with the handle of his tea cup. "I...I don't really know where to start."
Iruka said nothing, just waited patiently, his calm presence encouraging Naruto to speak.
"I've been feeling...off," Naruto admitted finally, his voice low. "Lonely. Angry." He paused, unsure how to put everything into words. "Hinata and I...we got a divorce."
The words hung in the air, and Iruka's eyes widened slightly in surprise. "Divorce? Naruto, I had no idea. I thought you two were...well, happy."
Naruto smiled sadly, shaking his head. "We were, at least I thought so. But...things just fell apart. We stopped connecting, and I—I let her down in so many ways. And now..." His voice faltered, the weight of it all pressing down on his chest. "I miss her. I miss my family."
Iruka was quiet, letting Naruto's words settle before he spoke. "I'm really sorry, Naruto. I know how much your family means to you."
Naruto nodded, staring down at his tea. "I feel so...lost. Like I don't even know how to be myself without her. Without my kids. The house feels empty, and I can't shake this feeling that I failed." He rubbed his face, trying to keep his emotions in check, but the lump in his throat made it hard to speak. "I don't know what to do, Iruka-sensei."
Iruka leaned forward, his voice gentle but firm. "Naruto, you've always been someone who finds strength, even in the darkest moments. I know it doesn't feel like it now, but you'll get through this. You've built yourself from nothing before—you'll find your way again."
Naruto listened, tears threatening to spill over, but he swallowed hard, refusing to break down completely. "But what if I can't?" he whispered, his voice cracking. "What if I just keep messing everything up?"
Iruka shook his head. "Naruto, you've been through worse. You've faced challenges that would've broken most people, but you kept going. That's who you are. You're not alone, even if it feels like it right now. And it's okay to hurt. It's okay to feel lost."
Naruto felt the tears spill over despite himself. He quickly wiped them away, laughing shakily. "Damn it…now I'm crying like a kid again."
Iruka's smile was soft, his eyes filled with warmth. "There's nothing wrong with that, Naruto. Crying isn't weakness—it's healing."
Naruto nodded, grateful beyond words. "Thanks, Iruka-sensei. You've always been there for me, haven't you?"
"I always will be," Iruka promised.
XXXXXXX
Karin had been lounging on the couch, idly flipping through a magazine, when she heard the front door swing open. She expected Sasuke to walk in, but what she didn't expect was him dragging Hinata by the wrist, his face tight with concern. Hinata was protesting in her soft voice, pulling at his grip.
"Sasuke, I'm fine," Hinata insisted, her voice calm but firm.
Sasuke didn't let go. "No, you're not. Stop being stubborn."
Karin sat up straight, startled by the scene unfolding before her. Sasuke rarely showed such open concern for anyone, and seeing him like this made her uneasy. She stood up, her eyes darting between the two of them.
"Is everything okay?" Karin asked, directing her gaze at Hinata.
Hinata quickly averted her eyes, looking anywhere but at her. "Yes, everything's fine. Sasuke is just overreacting."
Sasuke shot Hinata a sharp look. "Overreacting? You nearly impaled yourself on a rock."
Karin's eyes widened at the mention of an injury. She hadn't noticed it before, but there was a faint bruise forming on Hinata's forearm, and it looked like she was favoring her left leg. There was a small gash on her shin, blood slowly seeping through her pants. Hinata winced when she shifted her weight, but quickly masked it with a soft smile.
"Sit down and stay here," Sasuke said in a tone that brooked no argument. He pointed at the couch, his hand still hovering over Hinata's wrist before he finally let go. "I'll be right back."
Hinata sighed, clearly exasperated but didn't argue further. She sank into the couch, gingerly adjusting her leg to minimize the pain.
Karin hovered awkwardly nearby, not knowing what to do with herself. "What happened?" she asked after a beat, watching the discomfort on Hinata's face.
Hinata glanced at Karin but quickly averted her gaze again. "I...tripped near the river when I was walking with Sasuke. It's nothing serious, just a small cut."
"Small cut, huh?" Karin murmured, glancing at the blood staining Hinata's pants. The air between them was thick with tension and she didn't know why there was tension. There was something off, something she couldn't quite place, but she couldn't ignore the strange dynamic she was witnessing.
They both sat in silence for a few moments, and Karin considered offering her own arm to heal Hinata. But before she could even speak, Sasuke reappeared with a small first-aid kit in his hand. He kneeled beside Hinata, completely focused on the task at hand.
"You're a clumsy idiot," Sasuke muttered as he began cleaning the wound. "That's probably payback for hitting me earlier."
Hinata frowned at him but didn't say anything. Karin could see the way Hinata's lips twitched, holding back a retort. Despite the reprimand, there was a softness in Sasuke's voice, something gentler than Karin had ever heard him use.
Karin's eyes flickered between them, feeling like an outsider watching something intimate unfold. Sasuke's hands were steady and sure as he wrapped the bandage around Hinata's leg, and although his words were sharp, his actions were careful. Hinata, despite her frown, allowed him to tend to her, and Karin noticed the look in her eyes—something deeper than mere friendship. A look Karin had seen before, one that made her heart clench.
Sasuke finished up, securing the bandage and leaning back slightly to inspect his work. "You're good to go."
Hinata shifted uncomfortably, looking like she wanted to say something, but instead, she just muttered, "Thanks." She stood up slowly, testing her leg.
"I'll walk you out," Sasuke said, his voice a bit softer now.
Hinata looked at Karin for a brief second, giving her a shy, awkward wave. Karin waved back, trying to keep her expression neutral. Sasuke apologized in a low voice, saying something about how his house was the closest place to bring her.
Karin tried to eavesdrop, but their voices had dropped too low for her to hear. They stood by the door for a moment, their conversation hushed, and it was clear whatever they were discussing wasn't meant for her ears.
When Sasuke finally closed the door, he walked right past Karin and headed for the kitchen. She watched him for a second, feeling like something had shifted in the air between them, something she couldn't quite put her finger on. She followed him into the kitchen, her eyes narrowing slightly.
"You barely said hello when you came in," she pointed out, leaning against the counter as he poured himself a glass of water.
Sasuke glanced at her, then sighed. "Sorry. It's been a weird day."
Karin folded her arms across her chest, studying him. "Did you run into Hinata while you were out?"
Sasuke took a sip of his water, not meeting her gaze. "We were hanging out."
Karin blinked. "Hanging out? I didn't know the Hokage's wife and you were so...close."
Sasuke shrugged, his face unreadable as always. "We're friends, if that's what you're trying to ask."
Karin's unease deepened. She couldn't place it, but something about the whole situation didn't sit right with her. The way Sasuke had looked at Hinata, the way he acted around her—it was different. Softer. But she kept that thought to herself, unsure of what it all meant.
She watched as Sasuke set the empty glass in the sink, his movements measured but somehow distant. Something about his responses felt off, as if his mind was elsewhere. He walked past her without another word, heading toward the hallway.
"Hey," Karin called after him, trying to keep her tone light. "You seem...distracted."
He paused briefly but didn't turn around. "Just tired," he replied before continuing down the hall.
She frowned slightly, feeling a subtle shift in the atmosphere. It was as if a gap was widening between them, one she couldn't quite bridge. She followed him, her footsteps quiet on the wooden floor.
"Did something happen today?" she asked, leaning against the doorway of his bedroom as he began unbuttoning his shirt.
Sasuke glanced at her, his expression unreadable. "Nothing important," he said, pulling off the shirt and tossing it onto a chair. He headed toward the bathroom without elaborating further.
Karin sighed softly, watching the door close behind him. The sound of the shower starting filled the silence, leaving her alone with her thoughts. She couldn't shake the feeling that she was losing touch with him. Ever since Hinata had shown up looking for him, things had felt...different.
She thought back to that day when Hinata had come to the door. The way the woman had looked at her—with surprise and confusion. When Karin had asked Sasuke about it later, he'd been evasive, offering little in the way of explanation. It bothered her more than she wanted to admit.
Their arrangement had always been clear. She understood that what they had wasn't built on deep emotional ties, but being close to him again had stirred feelings she'd tried to suppress. Staying here, within the safety of his home, had been a comfort. A temporary escape from the whispers and judgments of Konoha's villagers. Rumors had once painted her as a homewrecker, accusing her of ruining Sasuke's marriage. The hurt from that time still lingered, making her reluctant to venture out.
The sound of the shower stopped, pulling her from her thoughts. Moments later, Sasuke emerged, a towel wrapped securely around his waist, droplets of water trailing down his skin. He walked toward his bedroom, and Karin found herself lingering in the hallway as he began dressing.
"Try not to leave any more marks on me," Sasuke said suddenly, his back to her as he pulled on a pair of boxers.
Karin blinked, momentarily taken aback. Then she remembered—the hickey she'd left on his neck. Her eyes darted to the spot, now clear of any evidence. "Did someone notice?" she asked.
He nodded, buttoning up a fresh shirt. "Hinata did."
There was a subtle shift in his expression—guilt, perhaps, or maybe discomfort. Karin couldn't quite tell. "I'm sorry if that caused any issues," she offered sincerely.
He glanced at her, a faint smirk tugging at his lips. "Just don't do it again."
She watched him for a moment, a small smile playing on her own lips. "Sasuke?"
"Hm?" he responded, adjusting his sleeve.
"What's Hinata like?" Karin asked softly. "I haven't really had the chance to get to know my cousin-in-law."
Sasuke paused, his eyes flickering with something she couldn't quite place. "She's...kind," he began. "Strong. More determined than people give her credit for."
Karin noticed the way his tone softened as he spoke, a rare gentleness that he didn't often display. It made her chest tighten slightly, but she pushed the feeling aside. "She sounds nice," she said, meaning it.
He nodded almost imperceptibly. "She is."
An uncomfortable silence settled between them as he finished dressing. Karin couldn't help but admire the ease with which he moved to put on his clothes, even with just one arm. It was a testament to his skill and adaptability.
As he headed toward the door, she called out to him. "Sasuke."
He stopped, turning his head to look at her over his shoulder. "Yes?"
She took a deep breath. "I'm going to head back home tomorrow."
For a brief moment, surprise flickered across his features. "Oh?," he said evenly. "Get home safely."
She had half-hoped for more—a sign that he might want her to stay longer—but she knew better. "Thank you," she replied, offering a small smile.
He hesitated, his eyes searching hers. "Is everything okay?"
Karin chuckled softly, shaking her head. "It's nothing." She paused before adding, "I appreciate you letting me stay here. It's been...nice."
"You don't need to thank me," he said, his voice gentler than before. After a moment, he continued, "I was nice."
She looked at him thoughtfully. "Sasuke, if I ever made you feel...pressured or uncomfortable, I'm sorry."
He seemed taken aback. "You didn't. I was worried I was making you feel…used. If I did, I'm sorry."
She was momentarily stunned by his admission. "I never felt that way," she assured him. "I knew what this was." She offered a wry smile. "But maybe it's time I stop hiding and face things head-on."
He gave a slight nod. "I understand."
"Besides," she added lightly, "I think there's someone else who needs your attention more than I do."
He raised an eyebrow. "What do you mean?"
She met his gaze, smiling. "It's nothing, I'm going to go start packing my things." She didn't wait for a response.
As she walked away, Karin felt a mix of emotions—sadness, relief, perhaps even a touch of hope. She knew that whatever connection Sasuke had with Hinata was something she couldn't compete with even if she wanted to try, and maybe it was time she stopped trying to hold onto something that wasn't truly hers.
XXXXXXXX
One week later…
Hinata stood in the center of the training grounds, her body poised in a defensive stance. The soft breeze carried the scent of freshly turned earth, the quiet rustle of leaves, and the distant hum of the village. She was focused, her hands raised, palms open and ready, but the tranquility of the moment was disrupted when a familiar voice broke the silence.
"Your stance is a bit off."
Startled, Hinata whirled around to find Naruto perched on a thick branch, leaning casually against the trunk of a tall tree. He was smiling, his blue eyes bright and filled with a warmth she hadn't seen in a while.
"Naruto-kun!" she stammered, her heart skipping a beat. She hadn't expected to see him here.
With an easy grin, Naruto leapt down from the branch, landing gracefully in front of her. His presence filled the space between them, and for a moment, Hinata felt her mind spin, not just from surprise but from the sudden closeness of the man she once loved so deeply. There was something different about him. Brighter. Happier. The burden that usually weighed on his shoulders seemed absent, his usual exhaustion replaced with a brightness she hadn't seen in some time.
"You mind if I help?" he asked, stepping closer.
Hinata could only nod, feeling her face flush as he moved in behind her. His hands, warm and gentle, settled on her arms, adjusting her stance with care. "Shift your weight forward a little," he murmured, his breath grazing her ear. The deep timbre of his voice sent an unexpected shiver down her spine, making it hard to concentrate. His presence was overwhelming, but not in an unpleasant way.
"Like this," he said softly, reframing her arms and realigning her posture. "That should give you more power behind your strikes."
The warmth of his hands lingered on her skin, and she could feel her pulse quicken. But as quickly as he had moved in close, Naruto stepped back, his presence leaving an emptiness behind.
"Try now," he encouraged with a nod.
Hinata took a breath, shook off the distraction, and moved through her form again. This time, everything felt more natural, her body flowing with the energy she'd been struggling to harness. The movement was more fluid, more precise. She finished with a powerful strike, her chakra surging smoothly through her hands.
She turned back to him, a bright smile lighting up her face. "Thank you, Naruto-kun. I can feel the difference now."
Naruto grinned, crossing his arms. "I told you, it was just a small tweak. You've had the technique, just needed a little adjustment."
Hinata's heart fluttered at his praise. She glanced down, trying to steady the rush of emotions. It was strange, standing here with him like this—no longer husband and wife, but still connected. He had changed so much, but he still knew her better than most.
"You seem brighter today," she said, looking up at him. "You look…happier."
Naruto rubbed the back of his head, his signature grin appearing. "Yeah, I guess I feel a lot lighter lately. It's been...nice."
The way he said it made Hinata smile. She had always wanted to see him this at ease, unburdened by the weight of his responsibilities.
"Would you like to train for a bit?" he asked, a hint of excitement in his voice. "I've never actually sparred with you before. We've fought side by side, but we've never trained, just the two of us."
Hinata blinked in surprise. He was right. In all their years together, they had fought side by side countless times, but a one-on-one spar? It had never happened. The idea stirred something inside her—an eagerness she hadn't felt in a long time.
"I'd love to spar with you, Naruto-kun," she said, a small smile tugging at her lips.
Naruto's grin widened, and the energy between them shifted as they both took their positions. The playful glint in his eyes made her feel more relaxed, and she dropped into her stance once more, this time confident in the form he'd helped correct.
"You ready?" he asked, the light in his eyes dancing with anticipation.
"I am," she replied with determination.
And with that, they began. Naruto moved first, quick and agile as always. Hinata responded with her own fluid motions, channeling her chakra through her palms, her Gentle Fist aimed to close off his chakra points. Naruto dodged effortlessly, weaving around her strikes with his characteristic unpredictability.
"You're faster than I remember," Naruto called out, laughing as he blocked a particularly close hit.
Hinata couldn't help but smile. "I've been training hard."
They continued their friendly spar, both pushing each other with a light-hearted intensity that made her heart race—not from exhaustion, but from pure joy. For a brief moment, she forgot everything. The tension, the complications in her life—none of it mattered. It was just the two of them, like old times, sharing a bond that transcended everything else.
Finally, Naruto got the upper hand, managing to sweep her legs out from under her. With a swift motion, he tapped her shoulder, signaling the end of the spar. "Looks like I win this one," he said, helping her up with a grin.
Breathless but exhilarated, Hinata laughed softly. "You always were unpredictable."
Naruto chuckled, pulling her to her feet. "You were great, though! You've gotten even stronger. Training with Sasuke must be doing wonders for you."
Hinata flushed at the compliment, feeling a strange mix of pride and embarrassment. "Thank you. But I still have a lot to learn."
Naruto shook his head. "Nah, you're amazing. I could barely keep up!"
The sincerity in his voice warmed her, and for a moment, she saw a glimpse of the old Naruto—the one who had always made her feel valued, even when she doubted herself.
Naruto glanced at her. "Do you mind walking with me back to the Hokage Tower?"
"Sure," she replied.
They strolled through the village, side by side, the afternoon sun casting long shadows along the streets. The nostalgia between them was palpable, memories of their early days together floating up in the spaces between their words.
"I remember that time Sasuke, Sakura-chan and I got stuck on that mission chasing after that stupid cat?" Naruto asked suddenly, a playful grin on his face.
Hinata giggled. "Tora the cat. We also had our run-ins with her. She always managed to escape from us."
Naruto laughed. "Man, I chased that cat all over the village, but I heard from Kiba that you were always the one who could calm her down. You have that touch."
Hinata smiled, the fond memory bringing a sense of warmth. "She just needed a gentle approach."
"Yeah," Naruto agreed, his voice softening. "You've always been good at that—knowing what people, or even animals, need."
Before she could respond, a small group of young women approached, their faces lighting up when they saw the Hokage. "Hokage-sama! Could we get a photo with you?" one of them asked eagerly.
Naruto flashed them an apologetic smile. "Sorry, maybe another time," he said kindly. Without missing a beat, he gently took Hinata's hand and led her away, much to the disappointment of the women behind them.
"You didn't have to decline," Hinata said quietly, glancing at him as they walked. "They seemed really excited to see you."
Naruto shrugged as he let go of her hand. "I didn't want to keep you waiting. And honestly, sometimes I get a little tired of all the photos."
Hinata nodded in understanding. "I can imagine it must be overwhelming."
"Yeah," he admitted. "But it's part of the job, I guess. Still, it's nice to have moments like this. Just being me."
Hinata smiled softly. "I'm glad you can find those moments."
Naruto gave her a grateful look. "Thanks, Hinata. You always know what to say."
As they neared the Hokage Tower, Naruto turned to her once more. "Hey, if it's alright with you, I was thinking...I'd like to stop by after work to see the kids. It's been a while."
Hinata blinked in realization. It had been a while since Himawari had spent time with her father. "Of course, Naruto-kun. I'm sure they'd love to see you."
Naruto's face lit up. "Great! I'll swing by later then."
"We'll be waiting," she said warmly.
Naruto gave her a bright, genuine smile before heading inside the tower. "See you later, Hinata!"
As he disappeared from sight, Hinata felt a sense of peace settle over her.
XXXXXX
Later that evening, Hinata sat comfortably on the couch, the soft glow of the television casting gentle shadows across the living room. A romantic movie played quietly, but her attention drifted between the screen and her children. Himawari lay sprawled on the rug, flipping through a colorful comic book, occasionally giggling at the illustrations. Boruto lounged in an armchair, eyes glued to his handheld game, fingers moving rapidly over the controls.
The peaceful ambiance was interrupted by the doorbell ringing. Hinata glanced toward the door, her heart giving a subtle flutter. She stood up gracefully, smoothing out the folds of her skirt as she made her way to the entrance. Opening the door, she was met with the familiar bright blue eyes of Naruto, who stood on the other side with an awkward smile.
"Hi," he said softly, his voice carrying a hint of hesitation.
A gentle smile spread across Hinata's face. "Hello, Naruto-kun. Please, come in."
He stepped inside, the warmth of the house enveloping him. "Thanks," he murmured, glancing around the cozy living room.
"The kids are in the living room," she said, gesturing toward where they were. "Would you like some tea or something to eat?"
"Tea would be nice," he replied, his eyes meeting hers briefly before flickering away.
Hinata nodded and called out softly, "Himawari, Boruto, your father's here."
Himawari's head popped up from behind the couch, her face lighting up. "Papa!" she exclaimed, scrambling to her feet and rushing over to hug him. Naruto chuckled, lifting her slightly as she wrapped her arms around his neck.
"Hey, there's my little princess," he said affectionately.
Boruto glanced up from his game, a subtle smile tugging at his lips. "Hey, Dad."
"Hey, Boruto," Naruto replied, giving him a nod. "How's it going?"
"Not bad," Boruto answered casually, but the warmth in his tone was evident.
Hinata watched the exchange, her heart warming at the sight of them together. There was a softness in Naruto's eyes as he looked at their children—a tenderness that reminded her of earlier days. She quietly slipped into the kitchen to prepare his tea, the familiar motions calming her.
As she set the kettle to boil, she could hear the muffled sounds of laughter and conversation from the living room. Naruto's voice, deep and cheerful, mixed with Himawari's giggles and Boruto's occasional interjections. It painted a picture of a family moment that felt both comforting and bittersweet.
A few minutes later, as she was pouring the steaming tea into a cup, she sensed Naruto's presence behind her. She turned to see him pulling out a chair at the kitchen table.
"Thank you," he said as she placed the cup in front of him.
"You're welcome," she replied softly, taking a seat across from him.
They settled into an easy conversation, the atmosphere peaceful. Naruto began sharing a funny story from earlier that day. "So, you won't believe what happened at the office," he started, his eyes sparkling with amusement. "Konohamaru thought it would be a good idea to surprise me with a new filing system. Only, he forgot to label everything!"
Hinata covered her mouth with her hand, a light laugh escaping her lips. "Oh no, that must have been chaotic."
"It was a disaster!" Naruto exclaimed, laughing heartily. "I spent an hour looking for one document, only to find it in the drawer labeled 'Top Secret Ramen Recipes'!"
She shook her head, smiling warmly. "At least you found it."
Naruto leaned back in his chair, his laughter settling into a gentle smile. "It's moments like that which keep the day interesting."
Hinata watched him, her gaze softening. The way his eyes crinkled when he laughed, the animated gestures he made with his hands—it all brought back a flood of memories. She remembered countless evenings like this, filled with shared stories and easy laughter. A pang of nostalgia tugged at her heart.
As the conversation lulled, a contemplative look crossed her face. She wondered silently if Naruto would ever find someone new to share these moments with. Perhaps he would learn from the past, become the partner she always knew he could be.
Naruto glanced at the clock on the wall and sighed softly. "I should probably head home," he said, a hint of reluctance in his voice.
"Of course," Hinata replied, standing up as he did.
They moved back into the living room, where Naruto crouched down to hug Himawari. "I'll see you soon, okay?"
"Promise?" she asked, her eyes wide and hopeful.
"Promise," he assured her, tapping her nose lightly.
He turned to Boruto, who had set his game aside. "Hey, Boruto, how about we meet up at the training grounds tomorrow afternoon?"
Boruto's eyes lit up with excitement. "Really? You'll train with me?"
Naruto grinned. "You bet."
"Awesome!" Boruto exclaimed, trying to play it cool but failing.
Hinata observed the exchange, a gentle smile playing on her lips. She walked Naruto to the door. As they reached the entrance, he turned to face her, his expression sincere.
"Thanks for letting me stop by," he said softly.
"Anytime, Naruto-kun," she replied, her eyes meeting him.
There was a moment of comfortable silence before he lifted his hand, resting it lightly on her shoulder. His bandaged fingers grazed softly against her skin, sending a subtle warmth spreading through her. His touch trailed gently down her arm, fingertips brushing along until they reached her wrist. He took her hand in his, giving it a gentle, lingering squeeze.
"I'll see you later," he said, his voice low and filled with a tenderness that made her breath catch.
Hinata felt her cheeks warm. The simple intimacy of the gesture left her momentarily speechless. His eyes held hers for a fraction longer, a soft smile curving his lips.
Before she could fully process the moment, Naruto released her hand and opened the door. "Goodnight," he said, stepping outside.
"Goodnight," she managed to reply, her voice barely above a whisper.
He gave her one last, warm glance before turning and walking down the path. Hinata stood in the doorway, watching him until he disappeared into the night. Closing the door gently behind him, she leaned against it for a moment, her hand still tingling where he'd held it.
A soft smile spread across her face. The evening had been unexpectedly pleasant, filled with the kind of quiet joy she hadn't realized she missed. The lingering warmth of his touch and the genuine connection they had shared left her feeling both comforted and contemplative.
Returning to the living room, she found that the movie's end credits were rolling. Himawari had fallen asleep on the rug, her comic book spread open beside her. Boruto was still engrossed in his game, but his eyes flickered up as she entered.
"Everything okay?" he asked casually.
"Yes," she replied, moving to gather a blanket to drape over Himawari. "Everything's fine."
XXXXXXX
Sasuke stepped into his house, the door clicking shut behind him, sealing the quiet around him. For a moment, he stood still, taking in the emptiness that greeted him. With Karin gone, the house had returned to the solitude he had missed. It was peaceful again, the kind of silence that allowed him to breathe. And yet, as much as he appreciated the quiet, something about the absence left a strange hollowness behind.
As he moved down the hallway, his eyes flicked to the photo album resting on the side table. Hinata had given it to him—thoughtful as always. He hadn't expected the gesture to affect him as much as it did, but each time he opened it, flipping through pictures of his family and moments from a past he barely remembered, it pulled at something deep inside him.
He continued into his bedroom, collapsing onto the bed with a heavy sigh. His body was exhausted, but sleep felt distant. His mind was racing, filled with fragments of the day, of Hinata, of that awkward moment when he'd brought her back to his house. She had injured herself, and bringing her there had seemed like the logical choice—it was closer, after all. But he'd seen how uncomfortable she was, especially when Karin had appeared. He winced, thinking back to how he'd snapped at Hinata, calling her clumsy, when in truth, he was the one who felt like an idiot for making things worse.
He stared at the ceiling, replaying the memory of their walk to the lavender garden. Hinata had mentioned it once in passing, and for some reason, he'd remembered. He wasn't the type to plan surprises or go out of his way to show anyone something special. Yet, when it came to her, he hadn't even hesitated. He wanted to see her smile again, to erase the sadness that lingered in her eyes—sadness he had put there. It had been strange, the way he felt compelled to make it right, as if he owed her that much, at least.
But he knew it was selfish, this need to keep her close even after rejecting her. She was his best friend, and it was only natural that she wouldn't want to be around him after what had happened. Still, the thought of losing her completely gnawed at him, something he hadn't fully confronted. He was used to pushing people away, keeping his distance to protect himself. But with Hinata, it was different. He didn't want distance. He wanted her around, and that was the problem.
He let out a slow breath, eyes drifting toward the window. The night outside was calm, a soft breeze rustling the trees. He wasn't tired, but he wished he could quiet his mind. The struggle of balancing what he wanted with what she needed was exhausting. He knew he shouldn't push too much. Holding back from teasing her, from falling into their usual banter, was difficult. It had become second nature to him, but now, every joke, every comment felt like walking on a tightrope. One wrong move, and he could hurt her all over again.
Sasuke closed his eyes, exhaling through his nose. His logic told him to give her space, to let her process her feelings in peace. But then, his selfish side whispered that he couldn't stand the thought of not having her around, not seeing her smile or hearing her voice. He was selfish. That much was clear. But he wasn't blind to her pain either. He just…didn't know how to navigate this.
His fingers tightened into the sheets, frustration bubbling under the surface. He was used to being in control, to having a plan, a purpose. But with Hinata, there were no easy answers. He just hoped that whatever this was—this awkwardness, this tension—would pass, and things could go back to the way they were. He just didn't know how to make that happen without losing her entirely.
He needed to be careful, to keep his distance enough to respect her boundaries, but not so much that he disappeared from her life. And somewhere deep down, where he refused to look too closely, he knew that this was about more than just friendship. But Sasuke had never been good at confronting feelings—especially his own.