July 22
Hinata walked through the dimly lit hallways of the Hokage Tower, her sandals softly tapping against the wooden floor as she approached Naruto's office. Her heart pounded in her chest, the familiar unease settling in as she climbed the stairs. Ever since the divorce, things between her and Naruto had been... okay, but sometimes, being around him still made her feel—
She stopped at the door and knocked gently, interrupting her own thoughts. She could hear Naruto's voice on the other side, but something about it sounded off.
"Come in," he called, his usual tone, but it lacked the warmth she had always known.
Hinata opened the door to find Naruto sitting behind his cluttered desk, papers scattered everywhere. When his eyes landed on her, surprise flashed across his face, and he immediately straightened up, his hands fumbling to gather the loose documents as if to make himself look more put-together.
"H-Hinata?" he stammered, standing up awkwardly before sitting back down just as quickly. "What are you doing here? Not that I don't want to see you… I just wasn't expecting—"
Hinata paused for a moment, taking in the sight of him. He was growing a little stubble on his chin as if he hadn't shaved in a while. His hair was a little more unkempt than usual, and though he wore his typical sunny smile, it felt... forced. Too bright. Too hollow. It wasn't the smile she had fallen in love with—the one that radiated warmth, the one that had given her strength when she needed it most. Naruto's smile had always been precious to her, like a ray of light in the darkest times, endearing in its sincerity. But what she saw now wasn't the Naruto she knew.
She could feel something was wrong, something deeper than the mask he was trying so hard to maintain. The urge to address it tugged at her, but she wasn't sure if she should. She didn't know if now was the right time.
Instead, she cleared her throat softly and chose to focus on the reason for her visit. "I wanted to ask for an update on the Land of Stone situation," she said, her voice calm but direct. "No one's mentioned anything to me since that day."
Naruto blinked, his surprise evident. He quickly composed himself, glancing down at the papers on his desk, shuffling through them as if organizing his thoughts. "The situation in the Land of Stone..." he started slowly, his tone a little more serious now. "We've gathered more intel since the attack. It's a lot worse than we initially thought."
Hinata watched him carefully, her heart quickening. She already knew some of this, but hearing it directly from Naruto made it feel more real.
"Kurosawa, their leader, is making moves to expand his influence," Naruto continued, locking eyes with her. "He's not just after the Scroll of Seals for power. He's trying to establish dominance over other lands, and the scroll is only a part of it. He's building up military forces in secret. That's what we've uncovered so far."
Hinata felt a chill run through her. "And the ANBU who escaped?" she asked softly.
Naruto's expression darkened slightly. "We don't have a solid lead on him yet, but we know he's still working directly under Kurosawa. He's become one of the key players in their plans. Sasuke and Sai are preparing for a mission in two weeks to infiltrate the Land of Stone, gather more intel, and figure out just how far Kurosawa's influence has spread."
He paused, his gaze softening slightly. "We're doing everything we can to keep Konoha safe, but it's a delicate situation. One wrong move could escalate things faster than we can control."
Hinata absorbed the information, her mind racing. She had suspected something bigger was at play after her encounter with the snake-masked ANBU, but hearing the full scope of it left her uneasy. "I see," she murmured. "Thank you for the update, Naruto-kun."
But her heart wasn't settled. She knew there was more she could do, that her skills as a tracker and fighter could make a difference. And this time, she wasn't willing to stand by.
"Naruto-kun," she began again, her voice steady, "I want to help. Let me join the mission to gather intel. I can use my tracking abilities to find the snake-masked ANBU. I'm sure I can get more information from him."
Naruto's eyes widened slightly, and he immediately shook his head. "No, Hinata. I don't want you anywhere near this. It's dangerous. I need you to stay safe."
"I can handle it," Hinata pressed, her voice firm. "You know how strong I am. I've fought beside you before. I'm even stronger now, and I can help."
Naruto hesitated, something flickering in his gaze. He studied her, which was making her nervous. There was a moment of silence between them before he let out a small sigh, a soft smile tugging at his lips.
"You're right... you've grown a lot. I can see the strength in you, Hinata. It's different than before."
Hinata blinked, surprised by his words.
"I'll allow it," he finally said, his voice gentle.
She stood there, speechless. She had expected him to resist more, to argue, but here he was—agreeing with her. Encouraging her. Hinata felt a rush of emotions. She'd been thinking about it ever since Sasuke mentioned her skills not going to waste, and even Kakashi had brought it up months ago. Part of her missed the action, the fieldwork that made her feel alive, and now—now she had a chance.
"Are you serious?" she asked, her voice soft, almost unsure.
Naruto chuckled. "Yeah, I'm serious. I'll let you know when I'm ready to assign the mission."
Hinata's heart swelled with gratitude. "Thank you, Naruto-kun." She smiled, the warmth of his approval filling her with confidence.
As she turned to leave, she paused at the door, a moment of hesitation stilling her movements.
"Is something wrong?" She heard Naruto ask.
She shook her head lightly, though her thoughts lingered for a moment longer. "No, it's nothing," she said quietly, then smiled once more. "Thank you again."
She walked out of his office, her mind buzzing with the realization that Naruto had agreed. A chill of excitement raced through her as she made her way back into the village streets, her thoughts swirling. Her gaze wandered over the bustling village, and something else tugged at her mind—Sasuke's birthday. Tomorrow.
She had heard from Sarada that it was coming up, and now she wondered if there was something she could do for him. Maybe make him something? Sasuke wasn't fond of sweets, so that was out. But she knew he liked omusubi with okaka and tomatoes... Perhaps she could cook something for him. But then, would that be too much? Too personal?
She paused in her walk, realizing how little she truly knew about Sasuke's personal tastes outside of his favorite foods. Then, a thought struck her. Sasuke wasn't someone who cared much for material things.
It wasn't about gifts or grand gestures with him.
A soft smile spread across her lips as a new idea formed in her mind. Of course, she thought, feeling a quiet sense of certainty. She knew exactly what to do.
XXXXXXXX
Sasuke walked through the bustling streets of Konoha with Suigetsu and Juugo trailing behind him. He had been ignoring Suigetsu's constant prodding for information about him and Karin, choosing to tune out the man's incessant chatter. It was better to pretend Suigetsu didn't exist when he got like this. Besides, it wasn't anything worth discussing.
It hadn't meant anything with Karin. Sasuke knew that well enough. He had simply needed to satisfy his desires, and it had stopped short of going all the way. Just some kissing, a bit of touching, and enough to take the edge off. That was all it had been. No more, no less. It wasn't something he cared to explain, especially not to Suigetsu.
He glanced over at Juugo, who walked calmly beside him. Juugo's height always drew stares from passersby, towering even over Sasuke. Despite his intimidating size, Sasuke knew Juugo to be one of the gentlest people around—unless provoked, that is.
Juugo caught his glance and then looked ahead, speaking in his usual calm tone. "You're clearly annoyed with Suigetsu's questions," Juugo began, "but I have to admit, even I'm a little surprised. Karin was hurt when you left her for Sakura, but now it seems like you two are back together. I just don't want to see her get hurt again."
Sasuke clenched his jaw but didn't respond. Juugo's concern was understandable, but it wasn't anyone's business. He kept walking, but Suigetsu wasn't going to let the conversation drop so easily.
"If you're just playing around for fun, Sasuke, I swear I'll punch your face in," Suigetsu added, his voice more serious now. "I'm not gonna be the one consoling Karin again if she gets heartbroken."
Annoyance surged through Sasuke, and he increased his pace, trying to walk away from the two of them. Their words were getting under his skin. He remembered how he left Karin, how she cried, how she begged him to stay. She had eventually accepted it, but it had been a mess. Still, this wasn't the same. He had made it clear to Karin that there were no expectations this time. They both knew what it was.
Even so, Juugo and Suigetsu's words left an uncomfortable knot in his chest. As he quickened his stride, a familiar voice broke through his thoughts.
"Well, well, well. What a pleasure to see your ugly mug, Uchiha."
Sasuke turned his head and saw Kiba standing there with a smirk on his face. For a moment, Sasuke's irritation faded, and a small smirk of his own tugged at his lips.
He stuffed his hands into his pockets. "Still stuck looking like a stray mutt, I see," Sasuke retorted smoothly, his tone laced with amusement.
Kiba narrowed his eyes, stepping forward. "Keep talking like that, and you'll be eating your words soon."
"You two sound like an old married couple," Suigetsu teased, wiggling his eyebrows. "All this bickering, just admit you're in love already."
At once, both Sasuke and Kiba turned on Suigetsu, their voices snapping in unison. "Shut up!" they barked, their timing so perfect that it startled even Juugo, who chuckled quietly to himself at the rare sight of Suigetsu being silenced.
Juugo, still smiling, turned to Kiba. "It's been a while. I'm not sure if you remember me."
Kiba nodded, grinning. "Yeah, I remember you. You're the big guy from Taka, right? We had a few run-ins back in the day."
As the two began to talk, Sasuke watched them with mild interest while Suigetsu sidled up to him. "So, who's this guy really?" Suigetsu whispered.
Sasuke didn't bother looking at him. "That 'cute chick' you mentioned before—he's her old teammate and closest friend. Kiba."
Suigetsu's eyes lit up with mischief, and he slid over to Kiba, an exaggerated grin on his face. "So... what's the girl's name? The one on your old team?"
Kiba furrowed his brow, confused. "Hinata. Why?"
Suigetsu didn't answer immediately, instead throwing his arm around Kiba's shoulders in a faux-friendly manner. "Come on, walk with me. I've got a few questions I'd like to ask."
Sasuke watched with mild amusement as Kiba looked back at him, confusion etched on his face. Sasuke merely shrugged.
As Suigetsu and Kiba disappeared from view, Juugo and Sasuke continued walking. After a moment, Juugo glanced sideways at Sasuke. "How's life in Konoha been treating you?"
Sasuke thought about it for a moment, reflecting on the time he'd spent here. The peaceful moments with Sarada, the training with Naruto or Boruto, even messing around with Kiba, Kakashi...and then there was Hinata. "It feels good to be home," he admitted. "I'm not planning on leaving anytime soon."
Juugo smiled softly at his response. "I'm glad. You seem happier now than the last time I saw you."
Sasuke didn't respond immediately. He wasn't sure what he had looked like before, but now, standing in his village, he knew something was different. He didn't openly acknowledge Juugo's comment but instead said, "Konoha is my home."
After a moment of quiet, Juugo spoke again. "Suigetsu and I are planning to leave the day of your birthday. I'm sure Karin will want to stay behind a little longer, though."
Sasuke could hear the unspoken question hanging in the air, and after a beat, Juugo voiced it. "What will you do if she wants to stay longer?"
"Karin can do what she wants," Sasuke replied without hesitation. "I don't have any thoughts on it. Stop trying to meddle." He paused for a moment, his voice firm but not harsh. "And don't worry about Karin. I'm not going to hurt her. It's mutual."
Juugo stared at him, and Sasuke could tell he wasn't completely convinced, but thankfully, he let the matter drop. They walked in silence for a few more minutes before Sasuke finally said, "I'm going to see Sarada. If you've got something else to do, feel free."
Juugo looked thoughtful for a moment. "I don't think I've ever met your daughter. Is it alright if I come along?"
Sasuke glanced at him. "That's up to Sarada. If she's fine with it, you can stay."
Juugo nodded in agreement. "Fair enough."
Sasuke and Juugo made their way toward the library where Sarada had asked to meet him. It was a place she had been raving about for the past few weeks—her new favorite spot in the village. She had been persistent about him joining her for a father-daughter day, and today's agenda was simple: pick out a book for each other to read and read it together. Sarada's idea of fun was far from what Sasuke might have chosen, but he wasn't about to disappoint her. Though he suspected finishing a book in one sitting would be near impossible for him, Sarada had a way of breezing through them in record time.
As they approached the front of the library, Sasuke spotted Sarada standing there, waiting for him. The moment her eyes landed on him, they lit up with that familiar brightness, a smile spreading across her face. It was a look that never failed to make something in Sasuke's chest soften. But then her gaze shifted to Juugo, who stood quietly beside Sasuke.
Sasuke gave a small nod toward Juugo. "This is Juugo, an old friend of mine." He paused, then asked, "Is it alright if he joins us?"
Sarada looked up at Juugo, taking in his towering frame. For a moment, her expression was unreadable, but then she smiled. "I don't mind—if Juugo enjoys reading."
Sasuke cast a quick glance at Juugo, raising a brow slightly as if to ask whether he was truly up for this. To his surprise, Juugo gave a small, almost shy nod.
Sarada's smile widened, clearly pleased. "Alright then! Follow me."
Sasuke shook his head, a faint smile of amusement tugging at his lips as Sarada led the way inside.
XXXXXXXXXX
Naruto sat across from Shikamaru in a small, quiet corner of the bar, the mid-afternoon sunlight filtering lazily through the windows. The amber glow from the sun cast a warm hue over everything, but it did little to touch the cold weight that had settled deep in Naruto's chest. He tipped his cup back, the cool liquid of his sake barely registering as it slid down his throat. The familiar burn didn't bring the sense of relief he was hoping for, but he kept drinking all the same.
Shikamaru, ever the calm and calculating one, nursed his own drink, water, looking as though he had just finished a long day of strategizing, his body slumped lazily but his eyes sharp as ever. He hadn't said much since they'd sat down, but that was how things were with Shikamaru. Silence wasn't awkward with him; it was comfortable. Predictable. Except today, Naruto wasn't sure if he wanted that silence.
"I'm gonna give Hinata a mission," Naruto finally said, breaking the quiet, his voice steady despite the storm swirling just beneath the surface. "To track the other Land of Stone ANBU. The one that got away."
Shikamaru's eyes flickered with surprise, but his face didn't change much. He lifted his glass to his lips, taking a thoughtful sip before setting it back down. "Hinata? Are you sure about that? She hasn't been on a mission in...well, since we were kids."
Naruto shrugged, the motion casual, but his grip on the glass tightened just a fraction. "I'm sure. She's been training with Sasuke. She's strong—stronger than most people know. I trust her completely."
Shikamaru studied him. He leaned back in his seat, running a hand through his hair. "I don't doubt she's capable, but..." he trailed off for a moment, his eyes narrowing slightly. "Sending her out on a mission after so long? That's not like you."
Naruto forced a smile, the kind he had perfected over the years, the kind that made everyone believe he was the same old Naruto. "It's not that I don't worry about her, 'cause I do. But Sasuke's been training her, and she's ready. She asked for this." He leaned forward. "I've gotta trust her, you know?"
Shikamaru nodded slowly, seemingly convinced. He didn't press further, which was a relief. Naruto knew that if Shikamaru asked one more question—just one—he might unravel. He might admit that the thought of sending Hinata off alone gnawed at him more than he could bear. That the idea of her being out there, without him by her side, tightened the knot of anxiety that had lodged itself in his gut for weeks now. But he wouldn't say that. He couldn't.
Instead, he took another sip of his sake, the bitter taste doing nothing to drown the ache he carried. "I'm thinking of deploying her the same day Sasuke and Sai leave. Hinata will track down the Stone ninja while Sasuke and Sai can focus on their task. They can cover more ground that way, and if anything goes sideways, they'll be close enough to back each other up." He let the words hang in the air, hoping that sounded more like a strategic plan and less like an excuse to keep Sasuke and Sai nearby Hinata.
Shikamaru raised an eyebrow. "So, you're sending her out solo. That's a big move." He paused, and Naruto could see the wheels turning in his friend's head. "But I get it. If she's asking for it and you believe in her..." He leaned back again, his gaze softening.
Naruto chuckled lightly, though the sound felt hollow in his own ears. "Exactly."
But inside, the laughter was absent. A different, darker voice echoed in the back of his mind—one that whispered doubts and fears, one that reminded him how alone he felt. He wasn't sure when the loneliness had started sinking in. Maybe it was the quiet nights that stretched on too long. Maybe it was the mornings when he woke up to an alone, the absence of soft laughter or the warmth of a smile greeting him. Or maybe it was the growing realization that the distance between him and Hinata wasn't just physical anymore.
The bar was lively around him, the low hum of chatter and clinking glasses filling the space, but Naruto felt detached from it all. The room felt cold, distant, like he was watching everything through a fog. He hadn't told Shikamaru about the countless nights he'd spent alone, staring at the walls of his home, or how the thought of going home at all made his chest tighten. He hadn't told anyone about the nights spent in bars, like this one, hoping that maybe another drink would silence the noise in his head.
But that wasn't something he could say out loud. So, he gave Shikamaru a grin, bright and easy, the kind that had always masked everything he couldn't express. "I know Hinata's gonna be fine. I mean, she's stronger than most people give her credit for. And it'll be good for her to get back out there, right?"
Shikamaru nodded, taking another drink. He didn't see the tension hiding behind Naruto's smile. He didn't notice how Naruto's eyes lingered on his glass, how his fingers drummed against the bar as if trying to fend off a restless energy that he couldn't quite shake.
Shikamaru spoke. "I think you're right." He finished his drink and set it down, stretching his arms behind his head. "Hinata's stronger than any of us know. Maybe it's time to let her remind us of that."
Narutor eached for his sake again, this time taking a longer sip, letting the liquid settle in his stomach. "Yeah," he said quietly, more to himself than to Shikamaru. "She'll remind us."
But as the drink warmed him, it did nothing to chase away the growing darkness. That loneliness, that emptiness, it clung to him, wrapping tighter around his chest. He glanced at Shikamaru, who was now talking about the next round of strategy meetings for Konoha's defense, but Naruto wasn't really listening. He nodded at all the right places, smiled when he was supposed to, but his mind was elsewhere, lost in the growing shadows he'd been hiding from for weeks.
Shikamaru glanced at his watch, then back at Naruto, his expression shifting from relaxed to more businesslike. "Alright, we should probably head back. There's still work waiting for us, and we're already behind on those reports."
Naruto groaned, leaning back in his chair with a look of exaggerated annoyance. "Ugh, I miss the old Shikamaru...the one who didn't like doing anything. Remember when you'd just complain about how everything was 'troublesome' or 'what a drag'? Now you're always dragging me back to work."
Shikamaru raised an eyebrow, his lips twitching slightly as if holding back a smirk. "I grew up, Naruto. There's work to be done, and unfortunately, we're the ones responsible for doing it."
Naruto sighed, staring at his half-empty glass, feeling the weight of Shikamaru's words settle over him. "Yeah, yeah. Guess we have to act like adults now."
Shikamaru stood up and clapped Naruto on the shoulder, his voice carrying that casual, almost resigned tone he always had. "That's the price of being Hokage, you know. No slacking off. And someone's gotta keep you in line."
Naruto shook his head, letting out a sigh that was half resignation, half amusement, but a small smile tugged at the corners of his lips. Shikamaru, ever dependable, always knew how to keep things balanced—even when Naruto felt like the weight was too much to carry.
As they gathered their things and headed out of the bar, Naruto could feel that creeping darkness still lingering in the background, but for now, he pushed it aside. Shikamaru was right. There was work to be done.
XXXXXXXXXX
July 23rd
Sasuke sat at the kitchen table, trying to ignore the ticking clock and the tension that Suigetsu was building with every glance at it. It was 9:42 a.m., just one more minute and Sasuke knew what was coming. The exact hour and minute he was born. He told Karin once. She must have told Suigetsu, judging by his reaction. They basically dragged him in the kitchen and told him to sit down. When he noticed Suigetsu's shifting to the close, and the way Karin looked like she was trying to suppress a smile. Juugo remained impassive. Sure enough, the second the minute hand clicked into place, Suigetsu leaped up from his seat, pulling a party popper with an obnoxiously loud bang. Streamers flew across the table as Suigetsu grinned widely.
"Happy birthday, you old grump!" Suigetsu cheered.
Karin jumped in with just as much energy. "Happy birthday, Sasuke-kun!" she sang, clapping her hands together in excitement.
Juugo joined in softly. "Happy birthday, Sasuke."
Sasuke rubbed his temples, feeling the headache already forming from the loud, early morning "celebration." His natural instinct was to shut them all down with a sharp word or a glare, but there was a part of him—deep down—that found some semblance of warmth in their antics. It was embarrassing, but there was a small smile tugging at the corner of his lips, though he quickly masked it.
"Alright, enough," he muttered, his tone carrying a touch of irritation, despite the way he felt inside.
Suigetsu smirked, clearly pleased with himself. "Come on, don't act like you're not secretly loving the attention. Big day for you, right? What are you doing, anyway?"
Karin leaned in, eyes bright with curiosity. "Yeah, Sasuke-kun, what's the plan? Anything special?"
Sasuke shrugged casually, not really interested in making a fuss over it. "I'm supposed to meet with Sarada to have lunch with her and Naruto's got something planned later—drinks with him, Sakura, and Sai."
Suigetsu snorted, leaning back in his chair. "Drinks with the ex, huh? Sounds awkward. Sure you don't want us to crash that? Could be fun."
Sasuke shot him a withering look. "Absolutely not."
Before Suigetsu could push further, Karin jumped in, her voice suddenly sweet. "How about breakfast, Sasuke-kun? I'll make something special just for you. Whatever you want."
Suigetsu couldn't resist. "Oh, whatever he wants, huh?" he said with a sly grin, leaning forward, clearly enjoying where his mind had gone.
Without hesitation, Sasuke stood and walked towards Suigetsu and reached out with his one hand and smacked him hard on the back of the head. Suigetsu winced, glaring at him as he rubbed the sore spot. "Ow! What was that for?"
"Just stop talking," Sasuke muttered, irritation clear in his voice. He turned to Karin. "Do whatever you want. It's fine." He ignored the way her cheeks turned a shade of red as he started to leave the kitchen, ready to walk away from the ridiculous conversation.
He barely stepped two steps when he heard a soft knock at the front door. He walked to the door and opened it to find Hinata standing there, looking slightly nervous, her hands clutching a black bag. She wore a shy smile, her face tinted with the slightest blush.
Sasuke blinked, momentarily caught off guard by her presence. She still had never actually been inside his home before, and he hadn't expected her today of all days. Before he could even form a greeting, Hinata spoke, her voice soft and almost hesitant.
"Happy birthday, Sasuke," she said, extending the bag toward him.
He stared down at the bag. "You didn't have to get me anything," he said, his voice quieter than usual.
Hinata averted her gaze to the side, pushing the bag more towards him. "I wanted to," she said. "I hope it's okay."
Sasuke took the bag from her. He looked at her, then down at the bag, trying to suppress the small smile threatening to break through. "What could this be?" he teased lightly.
Hinata bit her lip nervously and shook her head quickly. "Don't open it until I'm gone," she said hurriedly, her eyes widening a bit as if she were embarrassed by what was inside.
Sasuke watched her for a moment, taking in the way she fidgeted slightly and how her shyness made her seem even more delicate than usual. He almost chuckled at her reaction, but before he could say anything more, Suigetsu's voice cut through the air.
"Well, what do we have here?" Suigetsu said, making a noise of surprise and interest as he came up behind Sasuke. He pushed Sasuke aside slightly, stepping in front of him to lean on the doorframe. His arm propped up above him as he grinned down at Hinata. "If I'd known someone this beautiful was coming over, I would've cleaned up a bit."
Hinata's face flushed a deep red, and she stammered, clearly caught off guard by the unexpected flirtation. "I... uh..."
Sasuke felt his eyebrow twitch, his annoyance growing. He grabbed the back of Suigetsu's shirt, yanking him backward and away from Hinata. "Give her some space," he said flatly, pushing Suigetsu behind him. "Do you need something?" He glared.
Suigetsu shrugged. "Just trying to get to know the beautiful woman who stopped by, that's all. I didn't get to the last time she came by." He smirked, glancing at Hinata. "I mean, can you blame me?"
Hinata opened her mouth to respond, but Sasuke didn't give her a chance. He pushed Suigetsu further back and stepped outside, slamming the door behind him with a forceful click, ignoring Suigetsu's whining protests from inside.
When he looked back at Hinata, her face was still flushed, the red tinge lingering on her cheeks. He snorted, still irritated at Suigetsu's behavior. Trying to relax his temper, he spoke, his voice softer. "Sorry about him. He doesn't know when to stop."
Hinata shook her head quickly. "It's okay."
Sasuke narrowed his eyes slightly. "Next time, just tell him to back off. Your reaction only encourages him."
Hinata looked down, her face still a little pink. "I didn't mind what he said..." she trailed off, her words barely audible.
Sasuke's jaw tightened, changing the topic before he could get more annoyed. He glanced back down at the bag in his hand. "I'll go inside and open it. Thanks again. Did you want to come in?"
Hinata smiled. "I would, but I have to get going. I hope you like it," she said again. "I'll see you later. Have fun good day today, Sasuke."
Before she could turn away, Sasuke's voice stopped her. "Hinata," he said, his eyes meeting hers. "That dress you wore the other day..."
Hinata turned back to him, her cheeks tinting a delicate shade of pink. "Y-Yes?" she stammered softly.
He paused for a moment, as if choosing his words carefully. "It looked good on you," he said finally, his tone sincere yet understated. "You should wear it more often."
Hinata tilted her head down, her hair falling in a way that hid her face as she mumbled softly, "U-Um... th-thank you."
When she finally looked up again, a small, genuine smile graced her lips—shy, yet warm. Something shifted in Sasuke's chest, a subtle stirring he hadn't expected. For a brief moment, it made him smile, too. Just a little.
"I should get going." She said, bowing her head slightly.
He watched her leave, her footsteps light as she walked down the path. Once she was gone, Sasuke turned and reentered the house, closing the door behind him. Suigetsu was still standing near the door, a frown on his face.
"Hey, you totally cock-blocked me," Suigetsu grumbled, crossing his arms. "I was just trying to be friendly."
From the living room, Juugo, who had been quietly sitting in a chair, shook his head. "That woman is Naruto's wife."
Suigetsu's face paled. "Wait... that was Hinata? The Hokage's Hinata?" His jaw dropped in realization. "Oh man...no wonder she looked so familiar." He groaned, slumping his shoulders. "She's the total package, man. I could've—"
Before Suigetsu could finish, Sasuke's gaze hardened into a piercing glare. "You will not flirt with her again," he said, his voice cold and edged with a warning that brooked no argument. "Is that understood?" Suigetsu didn't need to know that Hinata was technically single; Sasuke intended to keep that information to himself. Besides, Suigetsu was not the right person for her.
Suigetsu waved his hand dismissively but let out a sigh of defeat. "Fine, fine. I won't. But it really sucks, you know?" He started daydreaming aloud. "Hinata...man, what a woman. Hinata. Imagine if she and I went on—"
Sasuke's irritation spiked, his jaw tightening as Suigetsu continued his prattle. Without a word, he shot him a withering glare before turning on his heel. Each step away felt like an effort to restrain himself from saying something he'd regret. He headed straight to his bedroom, eager to escape Suigetsu's incessant chatter. As he closed the door with a firm click, he exhaled slowly, grateful for the quiet that finally enveloped him.
Walking toward his bed, Sasuke sat down and finally opened the bag Hinata had given him. Inside was something he hadn't expected—a collection of photographs, all of them featuring his family. Pictures of his parents, of Itachi, and even a few of himself as a young boy, pictures with cousins and other relatives. There was one photo that caught his attention—a picture of him with Hinata when they were very young.
Sasuke stared at the photo, his eyes tracing the faint outlines of his and Hinata's younger selves. He was small, with a guarded expression even then, but there was a hint of a smile on his face. Beside him, Hinata looked just as shy as she always did, her cheeks flushed with a light blush, but she was smiling too, her eyes bright. He couldn't remember when or where this had been taken, but he did recall Hinata mentioning that they had met once before as children. Maybe this was that day. He had brushed it off at the time, thinking it was just a passing encounter, but seeing this now, it felt different—significant.
He then started going through the others. There were pictures of his parents together, smiling in a way he hadn't seen in years. There were snapshots of Itachi with him, moments that had been lost in the haze of his darker memories. In some, they were training together, in others, just sitting quietly, the bond between brothers captured in a way that words could never express. It felt like a whole part of his life had been returned to him, fragments of a time he thought had been erased forever.
How did she get all these? His fingers brushing over a photo of his family sitting together for dinner. It felt surreal to see them all like that—happy, alive with his mother holding the camera out, taking the picture.
He then noticed the card nestled at the bottom of the bag. Picking it up, he unfolded it to find Hinata's neat, careful handwriting inside:
Sasuke,
I hope this gift isn't too much. I wanted to give you something meaningful for your birthday, something that could remind you of all the good times you've had, even if they were long ago. Your family was such a big part of your life, and I thought you might like to have these memories. Please don't feel obligated to keep them if they bring you any pain.
I was able to get these photos with a little help. I went to the Hokage archives, and Kakashi-sensei gave me permission to access some of the old Uchiha family records. It took some time to find everything, but I think it was worth it. I hope you do too.
If I overstepped, I'll accept four forehead flicks—but no more than that!
Happy Birthday, Sasuke.
Hinata
Sasuke chuckled softly at the mention of the forehead flicks, shaking his head. Trust Hinata to worry about overstepping even with a gift as thoughtful as this. He set the card down and looked at the photos again. She had gone through all that effort, even going to the Hokage archives, just to find these for him. It was so...her. So considerate, so gentle. A gift only she would think to give.
Karin's voice called from the kitchen, breaking through his thoughts. "Sasuke-kun! Breakfast is ready!"
He barely heard her, his attention still on the spread of photos before him. Each one felt like a piece of a puzzle he hadn't realized was incomplete. A reminder that there had been joy and light in his life, even if it had been overshadowed by everything that came after.
Hinata hadn't overstepped at all. She had given him something invaluable, something he hadn't known he needed until now. He felt a warmth spreading through his chest, an emotion he couldn't quite name but knew he was grateful for.
XXXXXXX
Later that night…
As they made their way through the lively streets of Konoha, Naruto and Sai walked ahead, deeply immersed in an animated conversation. Naruto's gestures were exuberant, his arms waving as he spoke, while Sai listened with a polite smile. A few steps behind them, Sasuke and Sakura followed at a more leisurely pace.
Sakura glanced over at Sasuke, a gentle smile playing on her lips. "Did you enjoy your time with Sarada earlier?" she asked.
Sasuke nodded. "She baked a cake for me," he said. "Even though she knows I don't like sweets."
Sakura laughed lightly. "I did remind her that you're not a fan of sweets, but she was determined. She wanted you to try her baking."
A faint chuckle escaped Sasuke. "She's a good baker," he admitted. The pride in his voice was unmistakable.
A silence settled between Sasuke and Sakura, not quite uncomfortable but undeniably present, lingering in the space like an unspoken thought. After a moment, Sakura broke it, her voice edged with hesitation.
"Do you like my dress?" she asked, smoothing the fabric of her green dress. It was simple, yet carefully chosen—something that felt both casual and personal, as if she had picked it out specifically for tonight.
Sasuke's gaze briefly dropped to the dress, taking in how it highlighted her toned figure, particularly her legs. There was a time when such a sight would have drawn more of a reaction from him, sparked some lingering feeling, but now, nothing stirred. His response came slower, more detached.
Sakura noticed the pause, her eyes searching his face for some sign of approval. When she didn't find it, her expression shifted, a flicker of disappointment crossing her features. "I just bought it," she added, her tone gentle but prodding, as if hoping for something more than silence.
"It's nice," he finally said.
That seemed to satisfy her, at least on the surface. Her lips curved into a small, tight smile, but there was still something in her eyes—something unspoken, something that lingered.
As they neared the bar, the neon lights came to life, casting shifting colors across the street. The night's distractions awaited, but the unspoken tension between them lingered just behind.
As they entered the bar, the atmosphere immediately shifted to a lively, buzzing energy. The warm lighting cast an amber glow over the room, and the clinking of glasses, the murmur of conversations, and occasional bursts of laughter filled the space. Sasuke followed Naruto, Sai, and Sakura to a booth in the corner, the chatter of people becoming background noise as they settled in.
Naruto wasted no time ordering a round of drinks for everyone, clearly excited for what the rest of the night would bring. As soon as the drinks arrived, Naruto was quick to toast, raising his glass with a grin. "To Sasuke's birthday!"
Sasuke rolled his eyes but clinked his glass against the others'. The drink burned slightly as it went down, but it wasn't long before the alcohol began to warm him from the inside.
They hadn't been sitting long when Sai, ever blunt, turned to Sasuke. "You look uncomfortable. Is this environment not to your liking?"
Sasuke raised an eyebrow, taking another sip of his drink. "I'm fine."
Sai tilted his head, studying Sasuke with that analytical gaze. "You don't seem fine. Your expression is particularly stiff, though I suppose that's normal for you."
Sasuke shot him a glare, but before he could retort, Sakura placed a hand on Sai's arm, smiling. "Sai, don't poke at him. He's out celebrating for once, let him relax."
Sai blinked, as if the concept hadn't occurred to him. "Ah. I apologize. I only noticed his tension and thought perhaps it would be beneficial to point it out."
Naruto let out a chuckle, slapping Sai on the back. "Sometimes you're too honest for your own good, Sai. He's not tense, just awkward as hell."
Sasuke grunted, slumping a bit further into the booth as the alcohol started to work its way through his system. He didn't dislike the company. But loud bars, birthday celebrations—it was all so far removed from his usual routine. Yet, somehow, Naruto had roped him into it.
The drinks kept coming, and soon Sasuke noticed the subtle shift in himself. Normally quiet, he found words flowing from his mouth with surprising ease, only realizing it when Naruto's loud laughter filled the air. Sasuke blinked, not entirely sure what he had just said, but Naruto was clearly amused.
Naruto, now more than a little buzzed, threw an arm over Sai's shoulder. "See, this is what I'm talking about! Sasuke should drink with us more often! He's way more fun when he's not all 'serious' and 'brooding.'"
Sasuke shot him a sharp look, though it lacked the usual bite. "Shut up, Naruto," he muttered, leaning back against the booth.
Sakura, sitting across from him, leaned in with a teasing smile. Her eyes sparkled, a playful gleam in them that Sasuke had learned to recognize—and avoid. "Sasuke-kun, your face is so flushed right now," she teased, reaching over, poking his cheek lightly.
He stiffened immediately, instinctively turning away from her, though the heat in his face only grew. "Leave me alone," he mumbled, pulling his collar up as if it could shield him from the teasing stares. He hated that they could see something he wanted to hide.
Sai nodded in agreement. "Yes, it's rather fascinating. Your facial color changes quite dramatically when exposed to alcohol. A notable contrast to your usual complexion."
Sasuke stared at him, briefly contemplating what it would take to disappear from the booth entirely. "I said leave me alone."
"Aw, come on, Sasuke! It's your birthday! Let loose!" Naruto clinked his glass against Sasuke's again, his grin as wide as ever.
Sasuke sighed, downing the rest of his drink in response. It wasn't like he had a choice. With these three, especially Naruto, 'letting loose' wasn't optional.
Sasuke groaned, sinking further into his seat. "Both of you need to shut up."
Naruto snickered, clearly unfazed. He took another swig of his drink, the alcohol loosening his usual loud energy even more. Sai tilted his head, still studying Sasuke with that unnerving, clinical curiosity, while Sakura sipped her drink quietly, her gaze wandering between them. The conversation had long since drifted into the comfortable, aimless chatter that comes with too much booze and not enough focus.
Sasuke had started to tune out most of it. Naruto was rambling about some old mission, his voice loud and slurred, while Sai occasionally chimed in with his usual deadpan observations. Sasuke's eyes flicked to Sakura once in a while—she wasn't saying much, just watching the others with a faint smile, though it didn't quite reach her eyes.
"Hey, Sasuke," Naruto suddenly said. "You gotta admit, this isn't so bad, right?"
Sasuke glanced at him, the edge of his lips pulling up just slightly. "It's tolerable."
Naruto's laugh echoed through the bar, far too loud. "That's as close to a compliment as we're getting tonight!" He leaned forward, tipping his glass toward Sasuke. "Seriously though… it feels good to be around you guys now. We haven't spent much time together lately Sasuke. I kinda miss ya! Tonight is nice, right? Happy birthday, man!"
"Thanks," Sasuke said quietly, his voice low enough that Naruto, in his buzzed state, almost didn't catch it.
Naruto blinked, then grinned, looking overly pleased with himself. "See? We should do this more often."
Sasuke didn't respond, but something about Naruto's enthusiasm made him glad he had come out tonight, even if the noise and the bar scene weren't exactly his style.
Sakura, who had been silent for most of the night, finally pushed her drink aside and stretched, her eyes softening as she leaned back in her chair. "I think I'm gonna head home," she said, her voice quiet but clear. "It's getting late."
Naruto, half-focused on his empty glass, glanced up. "You should walk her home, bastard," he mumbled, his words slurred. "Be a gentleman."
Sasuke shot him a glare, but Naruto had already returned to inspecting his drink, apparently fascinated by the way the ice clinked in the glass. Sasuke didn't bother arguing. His gaze shifted to Sakura, who gave him a small, knowing smile. "You don't need to, Sasuke-kun. I can walk home by myself."
He stood up, ignoring the slight ache in his limbs from sitting too long. "I was going to leave anyway," he muttered, grabbing his jacket. "We'll walk out together."
Sakura nodded, not arguing with him. She stood as well, pulling on her coat, her movements slow, deliberate.
Sai, still perfectly composed despite the number of drinks he'd had, looked up from his seat. "I'll stay with Naruto for a while longer," he said evenly. "Make sure he doesn't get into trouble."
Sasuke gave a brief nod, his eyes stayed on Naruto for a moment longer. The blonde had gone unusually quiet, his expression shifting from his earlier cheer to something more reflective. A knot of concern twisted briefly in Sasuke's chest—Naruto was many things, but reflective wasn't one of them. It was rare to see him like that. But Sasuke didn't say anything. Instead, he pushed the thought aside and followed Sakura toward the door.
As they stepped out into the cool night air, the sound of the bar's noise faded behind them. The silence between them felt natural, not uncomfortable, though Sasuke could sense the undercurrent of unspoken thoughts lingering between them. They walked side by side down the dimly lit street, the quiet hum of the village surrounding them.
Sakura broke the silence first. "Thank you for coming out tonight, Sasuke-kun. I know it's not really your thing."
He kept his gaze forward, his hands stuffed into his pockets. "It was fine. Naruto wouldn't have let it go if I hadn't."
She chuckled softly. "Yeah, that sounds like him."
They reached a crossroads, where their paths would diverge. Sakura stopped, her hands tightening slightly around the strap of her bag.
Most of the village had settled in for the night, and the silence between Sasuke and Sakura was thick with unspoken tension. Sasuke didn't mind the quiet. In fact, he preferred it. But he felt the shift in Sakura. He sensed the words she was about to say before she even opened her mouth.
"Sasuke-kun," Sakura started, her voice hesitant, breaking through the stillness. "I was thinking… maybe we could try again. Go on a real date sometime, just the two of us."
Sasuke stopped in his tracks, his eyes narrowing slightly as he turned to face her. The look on her face wasn't new to him. Hopeful, anxious, the same expression she'd worn countless times before—but it didn't stir anything in him now. Not like it used to. He let out a breath, already knowing where this conversation was heading.
"Sakura…" He started, but there was a coldness to it.
Her expression faltered, but she didn't back down, cutting him off. "I'm not asking for promises. I know I've made mistakes. But I've changed, Sasuke-kun. I'm not the same person who doubted you and was j-jealous…I just thought, maybe we could try again. For Sarada's sake, if nothing else."
Sasuke clenched his jaw, the words hitting a nerve. For Sarada's sake. "I'm not going back to that," he said, his tone sharper now. "We've been through this. I'm not putting Sarada through more pain just because you want to believe things could be different."
Her eyes flickered, a mixture of frustration and hurt crossing her face. "I'm not saying it would be the same," she insisted, her voice rising slightly. "I've worked on myself. I wouldn't make those same mistakes. I wouldn't—"
"You wouldn't what?" Sasuke cut her off. "You wouldn't accuse me of things I didn't do? You wouldn't believe the rumors over me? I was always faithful to you, Sakura. Always. And you doubted me every time."
Sakura flinched at his words but held her ground, even as her voice trembled. "I know…I know I hurt you. I was wrong, and I'm sorry. But people change, Sasuke-kun. I've changed."
Sasuke shook his head, his expression hardening. "Maybe you have. But I'm not risking it. Not for you, not for anyone. The damage is done, and I won't go through that again. Not when it'll only end up hurting Sarada more in the end."
For a long moment, Sakura didn't say anything. She looked like she wanted to argue, to push him further, but something in his tone must have convinced her otherwise. Her shoulders sagged slightly, and when she spoke again, her voice was quiet.
"I understand," she whispered, though her eyes shimmered with unshed tears. "I just…I miss you, Sasuke-kun. I miss what we had."
Sasuke's gaze softened just for a moment, but it wasn't enough to change his mind. "What we had is gone, Sakura. I care about you, but not the way you want me to."
She forced a smile, one that didn't quite reach her eyes. "I get it," she said, though the tremble in her voice betrayed her. "I just wanted to try, but… I won't push you. I'm sorry for bringing it up."
They stood there in the cool night air, the silence between them heavier than before. Sasuke felt the knot in his chest tighten, but he didn't know what else to say.
"Happy birthday again," Sakura whispered, stepping back slightly, her voice barely audible now. "I hope you have a good rest of your night."
Sasuke watched as she turned and walked away, her footsteps slow, as if she were reluctant to leave. He didn't move, didn't say anything to stop her. This was for the best, for both of them, but that didn't make it any easier to watch her walk away.
He stood there a moment longer, the cold air biting at his skin, but his thoughts were already drifting. He had done the right thing, hadn't he? It was better this way, cleaner. No more uncertainty, no more lingering doubts.
As the streets of Konoha grew quieter, something else tugged at him. Before he realized it, his feet had carried him away from his usual path. He wasn't heading home. The village was nearly empty now, the moon casting long shadows on the ground as he approached a familiar house. He stopped just short of the front door, pausing as he sensed the chakra in the backyard.
The presence was calm, steady. And for a moment, Sasuke found himself standing there, unsure of why he had come.
Without announcing himself, Sasuke followed the faint pulse of their chakra, rounding the corner of the house. There, in the quiet of the backyard, he saw her sitting alone in a simple garden chair, her face bathed in the soft glow of moonlight as she gazed up at the stars. The way she sat, completely still and absorbed in the night sky, gave her an air of quiet serenity. He paused for a second, just watching her, as if he were intruding on something too peaceful to disturb.
But he did.
"Hinata," he called softly.
She flinched slightly, startled, her head snapping toward him. When she saw it was him, her eyes widened. "Sasuke?" Her voice was gentle, warm. "I didn't hear you."
He gestured toward the empty chair next to her. "Mind if I sit?"
Hinata shook her head. "No, of course not. Please."
Sasuke sank into the chair beside her, and for a moment, neither of them said anything.
"I came by to thank you for the gift," he said after a while, his voice low but sincere. "Before heading home."
Her eyes softened, and she looked away, her cheeks flushing ever so slightly in the pale moonlight. "I'm glad you liked it. I wasn't sure... I was worried it might be too personal."
Sasuke shook his head. "You shouldn't have been. It's the best present I've gotten in a long time. I appreciate it."
He wasn't someone who said 'thank you' often, but he meant it. She always put in effort, quietly, without needing recognition. He glanced at her, their eyes met briefly, her gaze retreating back to the stars.
Hinata never sought attention. That's what was so different about her. Where others might push their way into his life or demand his focus, she simply existed beside him. No pressure, no expectations. It was calming. He didn't feel like he had to guard himself around her the way he did with most people.
He leaned back, letting the silence stretch again, this time in shared comfort. Hinata, too, seemed content just to sit under the stars with him. Sasuke found his gaze drawn upward, following the constellations scattered across the sky.
It reminded him of times he'd spent with Naruto, staring at the sky after a long mission, both too tired to talk but appreciating the simple fact that they were together. But it wasn't the same with Hinata. It felt… different. Calmer, but also confusing. Naruto's presence was like fire—bright, intense, impossible to ignore. But Hinata was like the moon—quiet, constant, a light that didn't demand attention but was always there, steady.
Sasuke didn't know why he compared the two. Maybe because Hinata was the complete opposite of Naruto in every way that mattered. And yet, something about her stirred something in him, a quiet protectiveness that he didn't quite understand. It wasn't the same kind of protectiveness he felt toward Naruto, either. It was subtler, deeper, like an instinct he couldn't quite place. Maybe it was because she reminded him of a sister—someone he felt responsible for. Someone gentle, who needed to be kept safe. But that explanation felt... incomplete.
"I thought you'd still be celebrating," Hinata said, breaking the silence again, her voice soft as ever.
Sasuke shrugged, eyes still fixed on the stars. "I'm not one for long celebrations." He paused, then added, "Besides, I wanted to come by here before I went home."
He didn't understand why he felt the need to come here. It wasn't planned. His feet had just taken him here without thought, as if it were natural.
He glanced at her, seeing her still gazing up at the sky, her delicate features bathed in moonlight. There was a softness to her that he hadn't seen in anyone else. He could be vulnerable around her in ways he couldn't even be with Naruto. He didn't have to put up walls, didn't have to be the stoic shinobi everyone expected him to be. And somehow, that scared him more than any battle he had ever fought.
His gaze lingered on her longer than he realized, and when she turned and met his eyes, he quickly looked away, the tension creeping up on him. He didn't understand these feelings. Maybe he didn't want to.
"Mind if I stay a buit longer with you to stargazing for a bit?" he asked, trying to push away the confusing thoughts. "Before I head home."
Hinata's smile brightened, her entire demeanor softening. "Of course, Sasuke. I don't mind at all."
Sasuke leaned back in his chair, staring up at the stars as Hinata sat beside him.
Hinata shifted slightly, her voice breaking the stillness. "Sasuke, do you ever wonder...if things would've turned out differently?" Her voice was soft, almost as if she were afraid to ask.
Sasuke turned his head slightly, giving her a sidelong glance. He knew what she was asking, though. She had been through a lot—her divorce from Naruto was still fresh, and though she hid it well, he could sense the lingering pain. He had his own past to deal with, his own mistakes that had fractured his relationships, especially with Sakura.
"Sometimes," he admitted quietly. "But I've learned not to dwell on the past. It's already done."
Hinata nodded, her gaze dropping to her hands resting in her lap. "It's just...strange, isn't it? How things turned out." Her voice was thoughtful, not sad, but there was a weight behind it. "I used to think I had everything figured out."
Sasuke didn't respond immediately. He didn't know how to comfort her, not in the way she might need. But he did know that she was stronger than she let on. Maybe stronger than anyone else gave her credit for. "You did what you thought was right," he said after a pause. "That's all anyone can do."
Hinata gave him a soft smile, but it didn't fully reach her eyes. "You're right. I'm just trying to... move forward, I guess."
He understood that all too well. Moving forward was all he ever tried to do, too.
"Did you enjoy today? I hope you did because it is your birthday." Hinata glanced over at him.
"I spent time with Sarada. She made lunch for me. She baked a cake." He let out a small chuckle. "I don't even like sweets, but she insisted. Said it wasn't a birthday without cake. Worked really hard on it too."
Hinata's smile widened. "Sarada is talented. I'm sure it was delicious."
"It was," Sasuke admitted, a hint of pride in his voice. "She's a surprisingly good cook...and baker. I didn't expect it, but she's gotten better." He fell quiet for a moment, thinking about his daughter's effort to make the day special. "That part of the day was good."
He didn't mention how things had taken a turn later. His mind, despite his best efforts, drifted to that conversation with Sakura. Things had been going well enough until then. He knew the talk was inevitable, but he had hoped it wouldn't happen today—especially not on his birthday. Still, he had drawn the line with her, and he wasn't going to cross it again. Spending time with her, trying to make things easier for Sarada, was no longer on his list of priorities. Sarada understood, and that was enough for him. It was time for Sakura to understand that as well.
He glanced at Hinata again, not wanting to bring up any of that. She didn't need to know, and besides, talking about Sakura now left a bitter taste in his mouth.
"Was it...not good?" Hinata asked, her voice pulling him out of his thoughts. She looked at him curiously, her head tilted slightly. "You're frowning."
Before he could respond, she mimicked his serious expression, her brow furrowed and lips drawn tight, as if trying to mirror the exact look on his face. The sight of her trying to imitate his usual stoic demeanor made Sasuke pause—and then, to his own surprise, he smiled. He chuckled quietly, shaking his head. "Is that how I look?"
Hinata nodded, her cheeks flushing slightly as she giggled. "Yes, that's exactly how you look. But I know..." She hesitated, then added softly, "I know you're really a kind person underneath all that."
Sasuke snorted, raising an eyebrow. "Kind? Me? You must be thinking of someone else."
Hinata nodded earnestly. "It's true. You just don't show it very often, but I've seen it. You care about the people around you more than you let on."
Sasuke glanced at her, about to brush off the comment, but her sincerity made him think. He was never good at accepting compliments, especially ones that felt too close to the truth. Instead of responding, he just sighed.
He stood up, dusting off his pants as he looked down at her. "I should head home."
Hinata rose as well, smoothing her skirt. "I'll walk with you to the front."
They walked side by side as they walked towards the front gate of her home, Hinata looked over at him. "So, you did enjoy your birthday, didn't you?" she asked again.
Sasuke thought back to everything—the chaotic morning with his old team, the time spent with Sarada, even the time at the bar with his friends. "Yeah," he said after a pause. "I did."
His mind flickered briefly to Karin, who was probably still in his house, maybe even waiting for him in his bed. She has barely did anything since she's been at his home. Just lazing around. It was well past midnight, and he mentally sighed. His life, despite its newfound peace, still held complications he couldn't escape.
As they reached the gate, Hinata stopped, her head tilting as she observed him closely. "You're frowning again," she teased gently, her eyes bright with amusement as she once again mimicked his expression.
Sasuke smirked. "It's just my face, unfortunately."
Hinata giggled. "You might frown a lot, but there's a teddy bear buried in there. I've seen it a few times."
Sasuke snorted softly, feeling the corner of his lips tug up, he could feel heat on his face, as he looked away. "You know too much," he said, half-joking, but there was truth in his words.
Before Hinata could respond, Sasuke reached out and placed his hand gently on top of her head. He glanced at her from the corner of his eye. Hinata was looking up at him with wide eyes, her cheeks flushing pink as she looked up at him.
With that, he lifted his hand from her head and lightly tapped her forehead with his finger he withdrew his hand, smirking as he turned toward the gate. "I'll see you later."
Sasuke walked off into the night, a faint smile lingering on his lips, not bothering to turn around. He really had enjoyed his birthday—much more than he'd expected. And as he disappeared into the shadows of the village, he found himself thinking about his birthday. It really was a good day.
XXXXXXXXX
Now that the birthday is out of the way, we have some interesting things happening in the upcoming chapters…
Also, I want to thank everyone who has left reviews, and if there are any lurkers, thank you for reading! I'm always reading the reviews, so I see it and I'm happy to know that you are all enjoying the story. It makes me happy. Some of you have been giving me ideas, especially when it came to Karin and Gaara, and the jealousy, along with some Kiba and Sasuke banter. At this point we can assume Sasuke secretly views Kiba as a friend, or close enough. Kiba...well, it's getting there. LOL! And if anyone is confused from the last chapter, Sasuke and Karin didn't "sleep together". They were intimate without becoming one…if you catch my drift…
I have a feeling a certain someone might start becoming jealous very soon…