CHAPTER 09
Ino's heart raced as she watched Neji's back turn to leave. No, no, no! The panic rose in her chest again as she realized the situation was slipping out of her control. He can't walk away now!
Quickly, she stepped forward, her voice shaky but loud enough to stop him from taking another step. "Wait!" she called out, almost breathlessly.
Neji stopped, his hand resting on the door handle as he turned to face her again, his expression still unreadable. "What is it now, Yamanaka?" His voice was sharp, an edge to it as though he were barely tolerating her presence.
Ino's mind spun, searching for a way to stop him from walking off and finding Hinata and Sasuke. She had to keep him away from them—anywhere but there!
She opened her mouth, and in a moment of pure desperation, a ridiculous idea sprang to mind. "Hinata might've left a clue in my apartment," she said, her voice a little too quick. "I'm sure she did. I mean, she's been acting strangely, right? She might've written something down, or, I don't know… left something behind that could help you find her."
Yes, that'll work, Ino thought as she forced herself to keep eye contact, hoping she sounded convincing enough to make him doubt his decision to leave. "I think we should check it. It's better than wandering around aimlessly, don't you think? You're wasting your time, Neji. Let's go to my place, and we'll figure this out together."
Her words came out in a rush, desperate to sound believable even though she knew how ridiculous it all was. She had to get him inside her apartment—away from where he might spot Hinata and Sasuke. She needed to keep him occupied.
Neji paused, looking at her as if considering her suggestion. For a moment, he said nothing, his sharp eyes studying her every movement. Then, as if coming to some silent conclusion, he exhaled softly.
"Fine," he said, his voice flat. "Lead the way."
Ino felt a breath she hadn't realized she'd been holding escape her lips. This is it. He's coming with me.
She couldn't believe her luck—or her audacity. This is so stupid, she thought as she led him toward her apartment, but there was no turning back now. She couldn't afford to let him find Hinata. Not yet.
As they walked, she kept her eyes trained on him, trying to act as nonchalant as possible. I can't believe this is happening. What if he figures it out? She glanced over at him nervously. He was still quiet, his gaze fixed straight ahead, the expression on his face unreadable. Please don't ask questions, Neji. Please.
Inside, she was a mess of nerves. But she kept her face calm, smiling just enough to make it seem like everything was fine. Everything will be fine. I just need to keep him here, long enough for them to leave. That's all.
Neji's steps behind her were silent, steady, and as confident as ever. And for the first time, Ino found herself doubting just how much of a control she really had over the situation.