Updates: Main plot about Neji's fiancée updated. Hanabi pov updated. (Sept 2024)

Author Notes: Thank you so much for all the reviews and interest in the story. It makes my heart leaps with joy.

Chapter 4 Clan Meeting & First Dance

Sakura stirred as sunlight filtered through her curtains, a genuine smile on her lips. It had been ages since she'd slept so well. As she stretched, she noticed her nightshirt had bunched up, intertwined with another bearing the embroidered Hyuuga crest. Her eyes fell on a note left on the nightstand, written in Neji's unmistakable, firm and elegant script:

'The pajamas are yours to keep.'

Her smile widened as she hugged the garment, inhaling his lingering scent.

Today, she was supposed to meet him for their dance lesson, but a clan meeting had forced a change of plans. His retainer had rescheduled their session for later. The thought of dancing with the prodigy still sent butterflies fluttering in her stomach.

As she showered, a new dilemma arose: what to wear? Would workout clothes be appropriate? Unsure, Sakura finished her morning routine, her mind racing as she left the Hyuuga compound.

Sakura savored the serenity of the reed fields bathed in morning light before venturing into town. She browsed clothing shops, eventually selecting a simple, comfortable outfit. Her plans for a relaxing vacation with friends took an unexpected turn when she found herself outside Konoha Hospital.

Earlier, when she glanced through Neji's window and noticed his medical report missing from his desk, which troubled her. Coupled with Shizune-nee's request for assistance, Sakura decided to don her lab coat and begin her day at the hospital.

As a renowned medic nin, Sakura often served as a guest professor, sharing her expertise with young medics. Her natural ability to engage patients with humor and cheerful conversation made the hours fly by.

However, her concern grew when she couldn't locate the man's recent medical records. Suspecting they might be confidential, she made a mental note to request access from her senpai.

Questions and theories about his condition raced through her mind. She sensed he was concealing crucial information that night. Determined, Sakura resolved to find a way to heal not only his visible injuries but also the hidden threats he refused to acknowledge yet.

The Hyuuga clan's elite gathered around an ornate table for an important meeting. Hyuuga Hiashi, the clan leader, presided at the head, flanked by his daughters.

Hanabi had her eyes occasionally flicking towards her cousin.

Neji had adopted the attire of the other clansmen, a picture of nobility. His formal wear consisted of a white Sashinuki hakama, paired with a broad black obi. A long white cape, adorned with a substantial black bar running its length, draped over his shoulders, lending the man an air of solemnity and grace.

As the clan delved into discussions, Hinata noticed her cousin's distraction. Seated on the sidelines, his mind seemed far from the matters at hand.

By the meeting's second hour, Neji's patience wore thin. His presence was mandatory, yet he couldn't help but think of more productive ways to spend his time.

Try as he might, thoughts of Sakura invaded his mind. The memory of holding her in his arms just yesterday was both exhilarating and maddening. He looked forward to their upcoming ballroom dance practice, viewing it as a different kind of sparring match. The fact that she agreed to be his partner still amazed him.

His white eyes skimmed over the meeting agenda again, but the words failed to register. His mind wandered far from the paper before him.

[Three months ago, Neji's quarters]

Late into the night, Neji was buried under a mountain of paperwork, the not-so-glamorous part of being an Anbu captain. Keeping the village safe was just one part of his duties. As he sifted through village reports, a soft knock interrupted his thoughts. He looked up to find his cousin at the door.

"Hey, Neji-niisan," Hinata said, smiling as she tried to ease into the conversation.

After some small talk, Neji caught on to her real purpose. "Hold up," he said, eyebrows raised. "Did you just say I'm giving the closing speech at your wedding?" He knew the tradition for the clan head or those of significant standing to give a closing speech at Hyuuga ceremonies.

"Yes! Father's planning to step back and wants you to represent him. It's quite an honor."

Neji sighed, knowing that his uncle had been giving him more responsibilities since the Fourth Shinobi War. He excelled in most areas, but social etiquette? Not so much. After some back-and-forth, he agreed with a sigh. "Alright, I'll do it—for you and Naruto."

Hinata grinned mischievously. "There's one more thing... Could you teach Sakura how to waltz? She'll be your partner as maid of honor."

Neji hesitated, his reservations lingered. "Wait, does Haruno even know what it means to dance with me at a Hyuuga event?"

"She knows it's important, and she's cool with it. She gets that you need a partner after...well, everything," Hinata said softly at his skepticism but reassured him. "Maybe not entirely, but I'd love for you two to get along better."

Neji realized what was going on and smirked. "You've been setting this up, haven't you?"

"Nothing sneaky," Hinata replied, her eyes sparkling. "Sakura-chan needs waltz lessons and I thought you'd be perfect for it."

"You don't need to meddle like this, Hinata-sama," Neji insisted gently. "There's nothing between us that needs fixing."

Neji ran a hand through his hair, thinking about Hinata's attempts to push him towards the pinkette again. He appreciated her good intentions. His friendship with Sakura was comfortable now, and he didn't want to mess with that balance. Over the years, he had become Hinata's rock—supporting her relationship with Naruto wholeheartedly. He did it out of care and respect, not expecting anything in return.

Hinata started listing their past interactions. "There was something there, right? Life's too short for resentments or misunderstandings."

Neji paused, surprised by her insight. Were his feelings that obvious? "You're reading too much into it. We've all grown differently since then."

"I get that people change," Hinata said, "but some bonds are worth revisiting."

"I know you're trying to help," Neji continued, his voice softening. "But I'm good with where we're at now—just friends."

"Are you really happy just being friends?"

"Absolutely," Neji said firmly.

"And you think Sakura feels the same?" Hinata pressed.

"She can choose who she wants in her life."

"But what about what you want? What about your feelings? Don't they matter?"

"They do," Neji admitted softly. "But if supporting her from a distance is how I can be there for her, then I'm all for it. I just want her to be happy, and that's enough for me."

Hinata felt a pang of sadness at how selfless her cousin was. "Your happiness matters too, Neji-niisan."

His gaze softened as he looked at her, grateful for her concern. "Fine. I'll teach her if my schedule allows it."

"Well, guess what? Naruto-kun gave you a whole month off from active duty! So, you've got plenty of time to teach Sakura now!"

"Hm," Neji conceded; he could never refuse his dear cousin anything. "Just promise me you won't interfere or try to set us up."

"Deal! I promise I won't interfere," Hinata agreed with a grin.

[End Flash back]

Neji sat in the grand hall, his stoic facade barely concealing the inner turmoil as he listened to the Hyuuga council's latest proposal. They had truly outdone themselves this time, and he couldn't help but inwardly scoff at their audacity.

Two years ago, Neji had developed feelings for Sakura but stepped aside to avoid interfering with her relationship with Uchiha. Subsequently, an arranged courtship with the Otsutsuki clan was proposed. As a member of a prestigious clan that valued arranged unions for strong lineages, his status in the clan made this burden inevitable.

He acknowledged the connection between the two clans through their shared Otsutsuki Hamura lineage. He viewed the arrangement as both a duty and a strategic move to his clan. Despite his reservations, he accepted it without protest.

However, that plan had fallen through. Now, the council's new proposal was nothing short of absurd. They had shifted from marriage to using his body to father the next generation, focusing solely on bloodlines and the coveted Tenseigan. The notion of being treated as a mere tool, a vessel, for their twisted ambitions was insulting.

He wasn't the last of his kind; conforming to their expectations shouldn't weigh so heavily on him. As a traditionalist valuing marriage above all else, he couldn't accept this proposition. Known for his strong principles, Neji found himself questioning the very foundation of the clan's traditions. He realized that this time, he couldn't remain silent.

"Ahem, Hyuuga Neji! Are you even listening?" The councilor's voice cut through the tense silence.

"Am I truly hearing this correctly?"

"Hyuuga Neji, your attention and cooperation are required," the elder insisted sharply. "It's time you contributed to the clan's future."

Neji's eyebrow arched. "The first was barely tolerable, and now you propose another?"

"This isn't a proposal, Neji. It's an expectation," a council member replied. "We need your input on ten potential matches. Choose three."

A humorless chuckle escaped Neji's lips. "How generous of you to offer me a choice in my own fate."

The elder's voice hardened. "Your sarcasm is unbecoming. This isn't up for negotiation. Your compliance is expected. You're well past the age of consent. It's time you fulfilled your duty."

Neji straightened. "Fine. Then let's put 'strongly disagree' under my input."

"Enough insolence, Neji!" an elder thundered, his wrinkled face set in stone. "You dare show such disrespect? This is about upholding our traditions."

"No, your traditions are a cycle of control and subservience—a system that values bloodlines over individual worth. I won't be part of it."

Gasps echoed through the chamber as Neji stood tall, commanding the attention of every white eyes in the room.

"You forget your place, boy!" Another council member bristled with indignation.

Neji's response was swift and biting. "I wasn't aware disrespect required my full attention."

The council erupted in outrage. "You insolent little... You serve the clan by being here!"

Elder Takashi, who had always held Neji in high esteem, broke the tension. "Neji, my boy, I've always valued your insight. Could you please explain why you are not reconsidering the betrothal agreements we proposed?"

Neji turned to the clan elder, his posture respectful. "Thank you, Elder Takashi. I appreciate your trust in me. However, my decision is final."

Another council member leaned forward, his voice carrying a hint of intrigue. "What if we were to consider naming you as the first heir of our clan? Would that change your stance on the matter?"

The topic had been discussed before. Hyuuga Hiashi had previously appointed Neji to manage clan affairs, positioning Hanabi as the next in line. The council's reactions varied, and the debate over the clan's legacy successor remained unresolved.

Neji expressed his gratitude. "I am honored by your consideration. However, my health has not been optimal lately. This is not the right time for me to commit to additional responsibilities or betrothal."

Murmurs of disapproval rippled through the room.

'Health issues? That seems like a convenient excuse.'

'You must fulfill your obligations.'

'You are defying tradition, Neji. Consider the consequences.'

Undeterred, Neji approached Hiashi with measured steps and bowed respectfully, presenting his recent medical report. His voice was soft but firm. "Hiashi-sama, please consider my situation. I hope we can find a way to release me from this matrimonial agreement."

Hiashi faced his nephew with his characteristic composure, a heavy silence settling between them.

Tensions escalated, voices grew louder, and criticisms of him intensified. Yet, Neji remained composed. He keenly noticed the disdainful looks directed his way. Resentment towards him for surpassing the main house's abilities was nothing new.

The discussion took a dark turn, with some members suggesting the use of the caged bird seal to force his compliance. Despite his bravery and sacrifices, he was still seen as an inferior branch member. Frustration welled within him as he pondered the value of his father's sacrifice for these selfish clansmen.

Just then, Hinata rose with protective fury in her usually gentle demeanor. "Excuse me, Councilor," she interjected assertively. "According to our customs and laws, matrimonial arrangements require consent from both parties. It shouldn't be coerced."

Hanabi watched from the sidelines. The room fell silent, all eyes turning to Hinata. She watched her sister with admiration and envy, wishing she could stand up for Neji like that.

Hinata continued, "Neji has proven his worth time and again. He deserves our respect, not our suspicion. His health concerns are valid and should be taken seriously. We cannot force him into a union that may jeopardize his well-being. I move that we postpone any discussion of Neji's betrothal until his health has improved and he feels ready to consider such a commitment."

Her eyes met her cousin's, conveying silent support. She remembered how Neji had supported her marriage to Naruto. Now, two years later, as he stood up for himself, she felt both relieved and proud.

Hanabi watched her cousin's expression soften with gratitude. 'If only he'd look at me that way,' she thought wistfully before shaking her head to refocus. 'No, focus, Hanabi. This isn't about your silly crush; this is about Neji-niisan's future.'

The council members exchanged uneasy glances; the tension between the opposing factions was palpable.

Hyuuga Hiashi commanded the room with a dignified presence. "Greetings, fellow clansmen. I request your silence."

Immediately, the room fell silent.

Hiashi nodded slowly, his expression unreadable. "Your points are well-made, Hinata. We will consider them carefully," he said, then turned to other clansmen in the room.

"I insist on your respectful and thoughtful participation. Our clan's prosperity is paramount; we all understood this when we swore our oath. Neji's accomplishments have brought honor to us; it was his obligation, not something to praise him for. Our clan's tradition should not be taken lightly. Any deviation will not be tolerated."

Neji's heart sank at his uncle's words, but he maintained his composure.

"As clan leader," Hiashi went on, "I ensure that our decisions are made with caution and prudence for the benefit of our clan. Neji have shown wisdom and strength. Leadership is determined by merit and ability—not speculation. I trust him to lead our clan when the time comes. Together, we can ensure our longevity.

Neji's contributions to our clan and village are immeasurable," Hiashi continued. "We should honor him, not threaten him with undeserved practices. He is a valuable asset we must protect. This time, his concerns will be taken into account given the gravity of the situation."

Hiashi took pride in watching his nephew exceed all expectations, proving himself a worthy heir to the Hyuuga name. The medical report on his condition was more concerning than expected; it threatened his future happiness in marriage as a dormant power or threat within him was awakening. After the boy's engagement fell through, Hiashi decided to step in this time—both politically and personally—aiming to give his nephew the freedom he truly deserved.

His white eyes sweeping over the gathered elders and key members of the clan. "I urge every one of you to maintain absolute secrecy regarding today's discussion. Any leak could jeopardize everything we hold dear. This is not a request, but a strict warning. This decision is non-negotiable," the clan head concluded, his tone final and authoritative.

The tragedy involving his late brother was still fresh in his minds. The topic of the Hyuuga boy's impending marriage would be revisited later.

Neji, standing off to one side, met his uncle's gaze with a mixture of gratitude and surprise. For once, the clan head had broken away from tradition to show transparency—a rare moment in their rigid clan hierarchy.

"But, Hiashi-sama, we cannot overlook Neji's defiance of the council. He must learn to accept his role and responsibilities. It sets a dangerous precedent," one elder argued.

"Neji's defiance will not go unpunished. No rebellion will be tolerated. He will face trials to evaluate his loyalty and will be barred from using any Hyuuga techniques or abilities during these tests. Additionally, he will be suspended from clan-related responsibilities for half a year to reflect on his actions."

A murmur rippled through the assembly; some felt that these sentences were too lenient for what they perceived as blatant insubordination. Yet no one dared challenge the clan head further.

"Does anyone have any objections or concerns they'd like to voice before we proceed?" Hyuuga Hiashi asked, scanning each face for signs of resistance.

Silence reigned until finally an elder spoke up reluctantly, "Very well, Hiashi-sama. We trust in your judgment."

Neji couldn't believe when he heard: only half a year away from clan duties accompanied by loyalty trials—sentences that seemed almost too light considering his actions against the council's decisions. His uncle cared enough about him without showing overtly, which made it even more profound somehow.

After wrapping up her medical coaching at noon, Sakura headed to her meeting with the Hyuuga. Entering the branch family meeting hall, she taking in its blend of modern Zen and Hyuuga elegance. The picture frames on the wall showcased the clan's esteemed history, and Sakura felt honored to be there.

Photos captured gatherings of branch masters from different eras, all standing proudly alongside their loyal clansmen. Over the next few weeks, she would be practicing ballroom dancing with the current branch master.

Neji's portrait caught her attention, exuding a powerful presence in his traditional attire. With his upbringing, formal events and social etiquette were second nature to him.

Sakura settled into a serene wooden seating area, bathed in the soft afternoon light that filtered through the tall windows. Four seats surrounded a minimalist yet elegant low table. She took her place on a plush cushion, a young retainer approached with impeccable manners, offering her a steaming cup of tea and informing her that their young master would arrive soon.

Sipping her tea while waiting for Neji, Sakura wondered if she could match his moves. Would it be like their previous sparring sessions? The thought of being close to him during dancing sent butterflies swirling in her stomach. To pass the time, she summoned a scroll and began reading.

Glancing at the clock some time later, it was past two. Her concentration wavered when she heard soft footsteps echoing through the hall. She looked up just in time to see a man walk into the room. Neji, known for his punctuality and elegance, was surprisingly late but arrives with a charming smile.

"Sorry I'm late, Haruno. The meeting ran longer than expected," Neji's voice echoed through the hall. His long hair, partially tied in a man bun, swayed as he walked toward her.

"Don't worry about it. Did you bring some of that Hyuuga seriousness with you?" she teased.

He chuckled. "I try to leave it in the meeting room. Did you miss me while waiting?" Instantly, the kunoichi's presence calmed him, washing away the stress from the intense clan meeting.

Neji had slipped out of his formal attire and into crisp white shirt tucked into tailored black pants, and loafers. Gone was the stern clan leader, replaced by someone much more approachable.

"Yes, I did," Sakura teased lightly. "I was starting to think you got lost somewhere in the village."

Neji sat down next to her and peered at the scroll she had been studying. "Well, I'm here now. What were you reading?"

"Oh, just some medical scrolls," she said with a smile. His fresh look today made his sharp features even more pronounced. He seemed worlds away from the tense Anbu Captain who had returned from a mission just yesterday, still looked every bit as handsome as he always did.

"I'll have to make it up to you somehow for keeping you waiting."

"I'll hold you to that promise," she quipped.

"Maybe grab some tea afterward? Shall we start our lesson?" He suggested.

"Sounds like a plan," Sakura responded cheerfully, putting away her scrolls. "Lead the way, Mr. Fashionably Late."

Neji rose gracefully from his seat and extended his hand towards Sakura, she took it without hesitation. With a gentle yet firm grip, he helped her up.

As they walked to the center of the hall hand-in-hand, Sakura couldn't help but feel an unexpected warmth from their touch— a contrast to their usual professional interactions during healing sessions but one she found herself savoring today.

In the center of the hall, they stopped, standing an arm's length apart. Neji gave the pinkette a glance over—a charming black midi dress with dainty spaghetti straps paired with black sneakers—perfectly complemented his outfit for the day.

"We'll begin with basic steps and gradually progress to more complex ones," Neji explained. "If you're uncomfortable with any physical contact, like a close hug, let me know so we can adjust accordingly, okay?"

"Well... I have no objections to you, so I am okay."

"I've never instructed anyone before," Neji admitted. "In the waltz, there are some fundamental terms you should know. Care to take a guess?"

"Hmm," Sakura mused playfully while tapping her chin. "Is it step, turn, and twirl?"

"Close but not quite," he corrected gently. "It's actually called 'box step,' 'natural turn,' 'reverse turn,' 'chasse,' and 'promenade.' The next part involves more dance steps which I will explain next time."

"Alright. But watch out, Neji. You never know—I might just sweep you off your feet instead," she joked with a cheeky smile.

Sakura was known for her killer dance moves at clubs. Ballroom dancing was new territory for her but dancing with her crush made her excited yet nervous.

"I didn't know you had such confidence on the dance floor," Neji chuckled softly, positioning himself opposite her and gently taking her hand for their first move.

Sakura was mesmerized by how easily their fingers entwined, how naturally he placed her wrist on his shoulder and wrapped his arm around her back, drawing her closer.

"Well then," he continued smoothly as they began their first box step together, "I'll have to watch my step around you."

"I'll do my best not to trip us up!" she teased lightheartedly.

They started moving gracefully across the floor, engaging in playful conversation that made Sakura temporarily forget the formality of the dance. Their eyes met frequently, causing little jolts of electricity to course through her veins.

As they completed their first full round of steps successfully, Neji said, "You're catching on quickly, Haruno. Are you feeling comfortable with the rhythm? Just relax into it."

"Oh, no issues yet. Hinata-chan told me you're an excellent teacher." But seriously, how can she relax when the prodigy stays so close to her.

"Hinata-sama always exaggerates. I'm just a humble waltz practitioner. Learning was just one of those duties imposed on me."

As they executed a particularly challenging series of steps flawlessly, Sakura realized just how close they were—physically and emotionally. His touch on her waist and his calming breath near her forehead created a palpable tension that both thrilled and unnerved her.

The Gentle Fist techniques translated seamlessly into his dancing—each motion smooth and precise. Sakura couldn't help but marvel at how effortlessly Neji moved across the floor. Each twirl and graceful maneuver guided by his expert hand made her feel more confident in her movements.

"Do all Hyuugas have that level of smoothness? You make it look so easy."

This experience of dancing with the Hyuuga was worlds apart from sparring with him in combat; watching him dance took it to a whole new level. Hinata's suggestion was clear to her now—what other surprises did he have in store?

Neji smiled warmly at her compliment but remained humble as ever. "It's all about practice and patience. And perhaps...a bit of natural talent."

"By the way, Neji, no pressure to teach me the waltz," Sakura said earnestly. "I want you to be comfortable too," She knew this was all Hinata's idea; the heiress could be quite persuasive.

"Sakura, dancing with you is far from a burden. I'm exactly where I want to be. Just so you know, dancing with me at a formal event has some significance..." he responded thoughtfully.

"Actually, Neji, I'm quite alright with this arrangement," she reassured him, understanding his need for a dance partner at the upcoming event. She sidestepped mentioning his sensitive engagement issue but added gently, "No need for concern; I'm completely comfortable with it."

"Alright, Sakura."

Neji hoped Sakura truly grasped that dancing with him meant she was practically his future life partner to everyone at the upcoming Hyuuga event.

The soft music continued to play. Despite occasional missteps, Sakura kept up effortlessly, her pink hair swaying as she twirled and spun, her dress mirroring each elegant movement.

"See? I told you I could dance," Sakura said with a triumphant smile.

Neji raised an eyebrow, his lips curving into a playful smirk. "Let's see if your feet can keep up with your words." Without warning, he launched into an intricate series of steps—quick spins and elaborate footwork more suited to advanced routines than their simple practice.

Emerald eyes widened in surprise, but Sakura didn't back down. She tried to follow his lead, but her movements couldn't keep up; her body was entirely maneuvered by the man. With one final flourish, Neji lifted her effortlessly off the ground and spun her before gently setting her down.

They stood for a moment, catching their breath and gazing into each other's eyes. Neji still held her close; time seemed to stand still. Sakura looked up at him, slightly breathless but glowing with joy. "You tricked me!"

Neji chuckled lightly. "I needed to be sure you could handle anything on this floor."

Sakura laughed softly. "Okay, you win this round," she admitted, still smiling brightly, her heart racing from the unexpected closeness.

Neji took her hand in his and kissed it softly—a gesture that held more meaning than any words could convey. "Thank you," he said quietly.

"For what?"

"For trusting me."

Sakura's cheeks flushed slightly as she squeezed his hand in response.

Neji couldn't help but smile at how her cheeks turned pink, knowing that he was the reason for it. She didn't protest his closeness; perhaps his teasing was welcome after all. Realizing he might have crossed the line from playful teasing to something more intimate, he gently pulled away.

"I'm sorry if I overstepped," he said softly.

Sakura tilted her head slightly and gave him a reassuring smile. "You didn't," she replied gently. "In fact... I enjoyed it."

"Good because I enjoyed it too." Relief washed over Neji as he returned her smile with one of his own. With renewed confidence, he offered his hand again. "Shall we dance some more?"

Sakura's eyes sparkled with amusement and affection as she replied, "I'd like that." Taking his hand again and they resumed their practice.

Meanwhile, Hinata, the matchmaker, watched through the window, their chemistry undeniable in every step they took together. Her eyes shone with satisfaction; her decision to witness their budding romance firsthand rather than relying on her bloodline abilities seemed to be paying off splendidly. She was certain that her dear cousin had noticed her subtle meddling and hoped it was nudging him in the right direction.

End Note: Thank you for reading! Slowly but surely, their relationship is developing. I hope you enjoy these moments as much as I did while writing them.

Do you believe in the stars? It tells you something about someone. Neji was depicted in canon manga as being dependable, loyal, and honest, which are traits of Cancer men. A caregiver, who is also irritable and in a foul mood, says, he has to sit through a lengthy meeting.

Lastly, if you're enjoying the story so far, don't forget to favorite, follow & review so I know to update sooner.