Chapter Summary: The part of the story about hurt and comfort, part 1. Things are starting to ramp up. In this chapter, we delved into how their family members and close friends provided guidance and clarity for Sakura to navigate the storm ahead, and nudging her forward.

Author Notes: Hi S.A., that's exactly how I wanted the story to go, so I'm glad you feel that way. Thank you so much for the review!

Chapter 10 Words from the Wise

Neji walked into the posh trattoria, his mind reeling as he looked around for Sakura, who was supposed to join him for dinner. But an even more surprising sight greeted him. Hitomi, his former betrothed, sat patiently and waited for him.

"Hitomi?" He frowned.

"Neji, I need to talk to you. I...I'm sorry for showing up like this," she paused before continuing. "I apologize, for everything that I hadn't been fair to you," she admitted, with a newfound determination, "I would like to mend our relationship."

Neji raised an eyebrow and asked, "What has changed?"

"Just wanted to let you know that I no longer fear and that I still care about you. My feelings for you remain the same."

"That's great to hear, Hitomi," he said. "I wish you the best," as his gaze wandered around the trattoria.

"I really hope we can give it another chance, Neji. Please consider it. I've changed, and I really want to make things work this time," Hitomi pleaded with sincerity, expressing her strong desire.

"Hitomi," Neji began, his voice brimming with resolve. "Our relationship has been challenging. That path cannot be replicated. It's not safe for both of us."

Hitomi had been a significant part of his life, a part of him still cared for her. Yet another, wiser part of him knew the potential risks involved. Not after all had happened. The trust had crumbled, and the wounds remained fresh. Parting was the right decision.

Hitomi's face fell. "We can solve this, Neji. Together. Please, just hear me out—"

"I've heard you out," Neji interjected. "Sometime, no matter how much we want things to work, it just doesn't."

With that, Neji turned and left the trattoria, frustrated and annoyed.

Sakura, the woman he had planned to dine with, was absent. Worse, it was the pinkette herself who had arranged for his ex to meet with him.. What the hell was she playing?

They had made arrangements days earlier, and she blew them off just like that. What was the purpose for which she orchestrated this little get-together? Did she have another good reason? Either way, his stubborn pride wasn't pleased.

If Sakura thought she could toy with his emotions, she was sorely mistaken. He wouldn't let anyone waltz back in, ex or not. He had complete control over his own life.

However, Sakura was the one person he made an exception.

Neji paced outside her lodge in the Hyuuga compound, but nobody was home. His jaw clenched. Despite how much he wanted to write her off, the truth was that he still cared. And it stings more because of that.

Neji placed the bouquet of flowers he had brought on her doorstep as a subtle expression of disapproval. If she wanted to make things right, the ball was in her court.

Then he made his way back to his quarters.

Sakura was utterly disappointed in herself for bailing out their planned date, especially considering how excited she had been for it. She let Neji's ex-partner to have a talk with him instead of her.

The pinkette thought about how Neji must have felt when she didn't arrive. She can only imagine his disappointment. He likely thinks she doesn't like him. She would apologize and plan a better date to make up for her absence. He deserved that and so much more.

Hitomi suddenly appeared concerned about Neji's health. Worry consumed her. Sakura understood the link between the Hyuuga and the Otsutsuki, seeing them as distant relatives. They were both descendants of Otsutsuki Hamura. The Otsutsuki's could give Neji valuable insights, which she herself, being an outsider, couldn't.

Despite feeling terrible about setting up their meeting, the pinkette's only concern was the Hyuuga's welfare, even if it meant stepping aside for someone else. Her feelings didn't matter in comparison to his well-being.

Still, she was such an idiot.

She walked aimlessly through the streets as night fell, lost in thought. Tonton, her shishou's dependable assistant, summoned her to the Hokage office. When their meeting place was not the usual tavern or sake house, the medic knew this gathering was anything but ordinary.

*At Hokage Office*

As expected, Naruto and her shishou were already there, along with Hyuuga Hiashi. It must have had something to do with Neji's medical report, which they had also kept hidden from her.

The head of the Hyuuga clan recounted a rather unusual occurrence involving his nephew. Tsunade received a report from the clan, requesting Sakura's expertise urgently. She would be the key to saving his nephew.

"Neji's eyesight has been... declining. During his most recent mission, symptoms started to appear," Hiashi said, his voice sounding tense.

Naruto slammed his hand on the mahogany desk, earning a disapproving glance from Hyuuga Hiashi in his direction.

"Why was I not informed earlier?" After Neji survived the war, Naruto feared losing his friend again.

The Hyuuga patriarch stated that he knew the risks well. He was cautious about sharing Neji's health condition, as it was a sensitive topic for the clan. Bringing attention and potential conspiracies to Konoha and beyond is undesirable. For his late brother's tragedy to not repeat again. His nephew and Konoha needed protection.

"Neji is one of our best. We absolutely cannot afford to lose him, not like this!" How was he going to tell Hinata about this?

"I demand to know how I can help," Sakura stated firmly and to the point.

Senju Tsunade continued her explanation. "An unconscious force lies dormant in Neji's body, waiting to be unleashed. It has the potential to either empower him or weaken him. Its true nature has not yet been discovered."

Sakura recalled tending to Neji's wound that night. This could explain why syringes and vials of calming sedatives were found in his quarters. This may have contributed to his reluctance to commit to her after his engagement ended. Their tense disagreement in the shower made her upset, dampened an otherwise perfect night. The agonizing nights spent replaying their last argument in her mind.

As the details unfolded, Sakura felt her anger surge.

"That's why I couldn't access his files," she grumbled, feeling frustrated. She met the elder's white eyes unflinchingly. "Hiashi-sama, I understand the sensitivity of Neji's situation. If he doesn't receive the correct treatment, he could lose everything! How could you keep this from me?"

This time, it was Naruto who tried to comfort the pinkette. "Sakura-chan, I get that it's frustrating, but getting upset won't benefit Neji in any way."

Sakura took a deep breath, her expression softening. "You're right, Naruto. I urgently require complete access to Neji's records and the necessary authority to intervene without delay."

Hyuuga Hiashi was aware of the whispers and speculations that circulated about his nephew and the pink-haired kunoichi. Her genuine display of affection for his nephew surprised him. In a measured, assured tone, he addressed the young kunoichi before him.

"It's unfortunate that secrecy is necessary. I've heard the rumors, my dear." With an eye toward her reaction, Hyuuga Hiashi cut to the chase and brought up the subject of his nephew's recent scandal.

Sakura blushed and stuttered, "Hiashi-sama, I–"

He lifted his hand, silencing her. "I have no intention of forming an opinion. Nevertheless, I must admit that I appreciate your presence in Neji's life."

"Yes, Hiashi-sama. Neji and I developed a strong bond over time, one that I hold dear and intend to cultivate," the pinkette reflected, pausing to select her words thoughtfully. "I understand the importance of this matter to the Hyuuga clan, and I want to assure you that my intentions are sincere."

Hiashi nodded, his expression indicating a subtle sign of approval. "I'm pleased to hear that, child. Neji has been through a lot, and he deserves someone who can understand his experiences and provide the support he needs."

"You can trust me, Hiashi-sama. As a medic, my utmost priority is Neji's physical well-being. As his partner, I will always be there to support him emotionally, through thick and thin."

"I am delighted Neji has found someone worthy of his heart. I believe you will be a pillar of strength and support for Neji, both physically and emotionally. Your expertise could make all the difference. I trust in your abilities."

Sakura bowed to the clan's chief.

"Then, Haruno Sakura, I welcomed you to share in my nephew's joys and sorrows. Be a part of his life." Hiashi gently placed his hand on her shoulder, a trusting gesture that he rarely made.

Senju Tsunade, despite her retirement, was ready to help her prized apprentice in any way she could. However, it was a matter of concern for her. Sometimes the hardest things to say can be the most important ones.

"Sakura, are you really sure about this? Do you understand the potential risks associated with his condition?"

"Yes, shishou. I understand. But I love Neji so much and am ready to deal with any problems that come our way."

"You've always been strong-willed, but... I'm worried this relationship could hurt you a lot. He might not live as long as you…" The anguish of losing someone dear was something the Godaime knew all too well.

"I'm not naive, shishou. I know what I'm doing. Neji makes me happy. I want to make the most of our time together, no matter how long or short it is."

"That's my girl. Then I'll be there for you both, no matter what," Tsunade said, gently cradling Sakura's face and noticing the determined sparkle in her emerald eye.

Sakura gently placed her hand over her mentor's. "Thanks for watching out for us, shishou!"

"Go ahead and do what you believe is right. I won't get in the way. Just promise me you'll also look after yourself, okay?" She trusted Sakura's abilities to tackle this challenge with her skill and intelligence.

"I will, shishou!"

Tsunade sighed. "You two have a tough journey ahead, but I know you can make it work. I just hope Neji knows how lucky he is."

"Yeah, he does. And the lucky one is me!" Sakura beamed with happiness.

"Good. Then go to him, Sakura. Don't make the same mistake I did, enjoy your happiness while it lasts."

Sakura smiled and nodded in appreciation to her mentor, then turned and hurried off, full of new determination. She didn't waste any time making her way to the Hyuuga compound.

*At Hyuuga compound*

Sakura stared at the fresh bouquet at her doorstep, a reminder of her broken promise. She picked up the flowers, a bittersweet smile tugged at her lips, knowing she had messed up badly.

She took a deep breath, mustering the courage to face Neji. She would do anything to gain back his trust and affection. She would lay her heart on the line to rebuild what she had so carelessly broken. She couldn't lose him again, not over her misguided attempts to 'help'.

Sakura hurried down the quiet corridor to Neji's quarters. A crack in the door revealed the dimly lit interior. She pushed the door open further, her heart sinking at the sight that greeted her.

The once-organized area was now a mess, a sign of the turmoil that had gripped this space. His belongings, vials of medicine, and used syringes were scattered haphazardly on the floor. Her medical instincts went into high alert.

"Neji?" She called out, but there was not a single response. She put the bouquet on his kitchen counter with shaky hands so she wouldn't mess up the bouquet. Their evening was not meant to go this way.

She scanned the room, searching for any sign of him. But the space was empty, save for lingering traces of his pain. With her brow furrowed in concentration, she examined the scattered medical items. Regardless of what had transpired here, the Hyuuga was obviously in grave peril. It had to do with the dormant force within his body, which suddenly erupted without any warning.

Something was off about his wounds that night. As she pieced together the clues, Sakura berated herself for not noticing the warning signs sooner.

*Outside of Neji's quarters*

When Sakura left his quarters, Hinata wasted no time in making her way over. Concern widened her lavender eyes, the veins around them were still faintly visible from her recent Byakugan search.

"Sakura-chan, Neji-niisan is missing! His room was in a mess, he never leaves things like that. I searched the entire village but found no trace of him. What if... something is masking his location? Worse, he may..." She couldn't bring herself to finish the thought.

"Let's not jump to any conclusions yet. If your Byakugan does not lead us to him, we'll retrace his steps, starting from when he left the compound. Perhaps there is a trail we can follow."

"Nobody saw him leave the compound, and he's not where he usually is. It's like he's just... disappeared. Sakura-chan, I don't know what to do. Please help me find him!" Hinata furrowed her brow, clearly distressed.

Sakura's tone was calm and measured, but inside she felt a twinge of trepidation. Something unexpected might be causing Neji's whereabouts to be hidden.

"Then, we need to expand our search. Let me summon Lady Katsuyu. Together, we can investigate every possible lead and cover as much ground as possible."

Under the moonlit sky, Sakura used just the right amount of chakra to perform the summoning jutsu with consent, being careful not to cause any harm to the compound.

A colossal slug materialized before them, surrounded by a billowing cloud of smoke, casting a wise, ancient gaze upon them. Its massive form dwarfing the manicured garden and pristine pathways.

Sakura bowed and spoke with the utmost respect, "Lady Katsuyu, there is an urgent situation that demands your immediate attention. Hyuuga Neji's whereabouts are uncertain, and there may be a risk to his well-being. We require your assistance in locating him. Please assist us!"

Katsuyu's soothing voice resonated, "Certainly, Sakura-san. Immediate action will be taken to have my clones conduct an exhaustive search of the village and its environs."

"Thank you, Lady Katsuyu," Hinata looked up, a glimmer of hope igniting in her white eyes. They had a better chance of finding her cousin with the help of the legendary slug princess.

"Hai, Hinata-heme," Katsuyu nodded solemnly to the Hyuuga princess, her gelatinous form rippling as she split into smaller versions of herself and spread across Konoha.

"Sakura-chan, I'll alert Naruto-kun right away and get Kiba-kun to help. Akamaru's sharp senses will be extremely useful for the search. They are an impressive tracking duo."

"Do it, Hinata. We need to find him fast," the pinkette clenched her fists, determination burning in her eyes.

"I'll rally them right away," Hinata spun on her heel and headed towards the Inuzuka compound, her flowing indigo hair trailing behind her.

Time was of the essence. Sakura sped through the quiet streets while Katsuyu's clones slithered across the rooftops and alleyways, scouring the village for any sign of her missing loved one before it became too late.

Her sense of dread was increased by the unsettling quiet of the usually busy village.

What had triggered this awakening? Was he safe? Where has he gone?

The thought of Neji suffering alone terrified her. She would tear the village apart if that's what it took. She wouldn't rest until she reached him. She wouldn't—couldn't—let the man she loved face his demons alone. His well-being depended on it, and she was determined not to fail.

Breathe, Sakura. Stay calm and strong.

Sakura darted through the streets of Konoha, her pink hair whipping behind her. As she turned the corner, a voice she knew called out, "Sakura! Come here!"

She skidded to a stop and saw her best friend waving frantically from her family's flower shop doorway. She went off course and stopped at the store.

"Hey forehead, did Neji give you the bouquet? How was the dinner?"

"I missed it. His ex got to talk to him instead," Sakura replied, her words falling out quickly, "and now I can't find him anywhere."

Ino's cerulean eyes went wide.

"Sakura, you idiot! You had Neji right there, and you blew it! Do you have any idea how long he's been waiting for you to notice him? He's been working up the courage, but you let his ex interrupt your date? Can you imagine how awkward that was for Neji? How could you be so insensitive?"

Sakura winced, bracing herself for Ino's scolding. "I-I just wanted to help him. I didn't think about how it would look. Hitomi-san told me Neji's health is at risk, and she can help! What was I supposed to do? Tell her to buzz off?"

"Yes, Sakura! That's exactly what you should have done! This Otsutsuki woman is probably just trying to get between you two."

"I know, I know! I messed up big. I'm such an idiot! Neji must think I'm the worst."

"Damn right, he does!"

Just then, a slug messenger appeared in front of her, delivering an urgent note. It was no longer just about a missed date. Now, all that mattered was making sure the man was safe.

"Okay, listen up. You're going to find him, apologize, and make it clear that you want to continue your date."

"You can lecture me later, pig. I don't have time to dwell on that now! Neji is located near the eastern border! I-I've gotta go, he needs me!"

"Go, go save your boyfriend! That matters most. Show him you're serious about him. Got it?"

"Understood! I'm going to tell him how I feel! Thanks for the wake-up call! Wish me luck!" With that, the pinkette turned on her heel and marched off towards Konoha's eastern gate.

'Hang on, Neji. I'm coming!'

Adrenaline pumped through her veins as she pushed herself to move faster. She couldn't afford to lose Neji, not when she'd been so careless with his affections.

End Note: Remember to follow, favorite, and leave a review before you go. I really appreciate you sticking with the story.

The next chapter is being worked on. Everything will go well, and it will be the best part of the story. See you in July!