"And, you're sure he was telling the truth and doesn't secretly plan to kill me?"
With his feet crunching against the snow, Naruto's heart was racing as he and Hinata approached the extravagant main house in the center of the Hyuuga compound. Hinata, on the other hand, seemed completely absent of nervousness, fear, or anxiety. If anything, she seemed incredibly excited about Naruto finally meeting her father and the opportunities that this conversation would unveil for their future as a couple. While she had assured her boyfriend that Hiashi meant well with his summoning, Naruto couldn't drown out the tiny voice in the back of his head that was telling him to retreat while his chakra points were still functioning.
"Trust me, Naruto, you've got nothing to worry about. Not so long ago, I probably would've been just as anxious as you. But, my father is a different person now. I've seen the way he's changed. Plus, he talked highly of you and he seems eager to finally meet you."
Naruto had never met Hiashi face-to-face, and had only heard a little about the man from casual conversations with Hinata after they started dating. He knew it was a difficult subject for her to talk about, so when she would briefly open up to him about it, he tried not to ask too many questions and instead focused on listening to her, showing her that he cared and supporting her in any way he could.
In an attempt to make her more comfortable, Naruto would also open up about more of his own childhood and quickly ended up telling her everything there was to know... which, granted, wasn't really that much since he had grown up completely alone. He'd tell her about some of the cruel things that the villagers would say to him, or the things he had to do in order to survive, but through it all, it was the solitude that took the biggest toll on him.
However, Hinata would only share vague details about her childhood before assuring him that things were better now and that she simply wanted to move on from her past. Not wanting to risk upsetting her by overstepping any unspoken boundaries, Naruto chose to listen to anything she was willing to tell him but not pester her for any further details. He too understood that leaving bad memories in the past was sometimes the best decision, so he tried his hardest to just let it go for her sake.
Although, he'd be lying if he said that her hesitation to share those memories didn't rub him the wrong way.
He didn't have much to go off of, but from what he was able to gather, Hiashi was a strict and intimidating man that hadn't exactly been the best father figure throughout most of her childhood and even through her adolescence. He was a stern leader with responsibilities that prioritized the strength and longevity of the Hyuuga clan. Ultimately, he had been rather... distant throughout Hinata's life.
"But still, the way she talks about how different he is now... it makes me wonder what he used to be like and how he used to treat her before he changed. What did she have to go through? What is she too afraid to tell me?"
He then remembered something she said to him during their picnic date.
"Well, if you ever want to know something about me, just ask. I'll tell you anything you want."
Curiosity got the better of him, and before he could stop himself, words were spilling out of his mouth.
"Hinata, you keep mentioning that he's changed, but I feel like you haven't told me much about how he's changed. How exactly did your father treat you? You know, when you were younger?"
Hinata froze in her tracks just as they approached the front door of her home. Her expression was one of contemplation, as if she was trying to decide if this was a conversation she wanted to have right now. Naruto cursed himself for being so insensitive and quickly started to panic on the inside, but just when he thought he had screwed up by asking her about something so personal, she turned to him with a sad smile on her face.
"You're right, Naruto... I haven't told you the whole truth about my childhood, even though you've told me everything about yours. I was wrong to keep that from you. I'm... I'm sorry."
The shameful look of guilt on her face immediately made him regret asking. All he wanted now was to scoop her up into his arms and retreat back to his apartment where they could be alone, so that he could hold her close and apologize profusely for bringing up something he knew she was uncomfortable talking about. The last thing Naruto wanted was for her to feel guilty about not telling him. Sure, it bothered him that he didn't fully understand her pain, but he also understood that it was something she would open up about when she was ready. He only meant to encourage her a little, not make her feel obligated to tell him.
"N-No, don't apologize! Hinata, I... Dammit, I shouldn't have even said-"
Hinata silenced him with a soft kiss. Naruto felt his heart rate double, remembering that they were quite literally in the middle of a place where members of her clan could see them clear as day. When she pulled away, he briefly glanced around and was relieved to see that there was nobody to witness her display of affection.
"Then again... it's not really a secret anymore, is it?"
"It's okay, Naruto. I don't blame you for asking. The truth is... I've wanted to tell you everything since the very beginning. You've already shared so much about your past with me, and I want you to know everything about mine, too. I could tell that you were opening up to me so that I'd be more willing to do the same, and honestly, I have felt really guilty about not doing so."
Naruto looked at her with a concerned expression.
"Then, why not just tell me, Hinata? I've told you everything about my past because I trust you. Do you... do you not trust me enough to share yours with me yet?"
"N-No! I mean, of course I trust you, Naruto. I trust you more than anyone."
"So then, why, Hinata?"
She let out a shaky breath as tears started to pool in her eyes.
"The only reason I haven't told you everything is because I don't want you to have ill feelings toward my father. I wanted to wait until after you met him, so that you could have a better first impression of him, but... that wasn't fair to you. I know you can see how uneasy I've been to talk about him, and I'm sure it's only caused you more concern. And for that, I'm truly sorry, Naruto."
The guilt wasn't leaving her face, so Naruto did the only thing that felt right. He embraced her and held her tightly to him, trying his hardest to show her that she had done nothing wrong and that he wasn't upset.
He spoke soothingly as his hands gently caressed her back in a desperate attempt to comfort her. "You never have to apologize to me. I'm not angry or upset with you. It's true, I have been concerned about what you went through and why you didn't want to share it with me, but I understand now. You had only good intentions."
He tightened his arms around her and kissed the top of her head before continuing. "I was worried that you didn't trust me, but I'm glad to hear that wasn't the case. Although, I was more worried that..."
His words suddenly became stuck in his throat. Hinata gently pulled away and looked up at him inquisitively. "That what?"
He swallowed hard. "Hinata, you don't have to tell me everything right now, but... could I ask you just one question before I meet him?"
She had a nervous and confused look on her face but managed a soft nod.
Naruto swallowed hard again before speaking. "Did he ever... hurt you? I mean... did he ever..."
He was aware that the Hyuuga clan began training children very early, and because of that, Hiashi had likely put Hinata through intensive combat training that would've been difficult and painful for anyone at such a young age. However... that wasn't the type of "hurt" he was referring to.
He knew what he wanted to ask, but the words just wouldn't leave his mouth, for he was afraid of what the answer might be. If he came to learn that Hinata had been physically abused by her father in any way, he was certain that he wouldn't be able to control his rage.
Her eyes widened when she realized what he was trying to ask her. "No! No no no, nothing like that, I swear! He never laid a hand on me."
Naruto let out a deep exhale of relief that he had unknowingly been holding in. "Oh... Okay... G-Good." He said between shaky breaths.
"I should've just told you everything from the start. I've only made things worse by giving you the wrong idea." Hinata said with guilt still present in her voice. "I promise, Naruto, my father is not an evil man. He has his flaws, but he would never do anything like that."
Naruto embraced her again, and she could feel his strong arms trembling around her form as he rested his chin on her shoulder. "Good, because... Hinata, do you have any idea what I would do if I found out that someone, that anyone had done something like that to you? I would... I would-"
"Shhh, it's okay. You don't ever have to worry about that, my love. I promise." She whispered softly to him, wrapping her arms around his neck and letting one of her hands run through his blond hair. She heard him release a throaty groan as her fingers massaged his scalp, and she had to stifle a laugh.
Naruto felt an immense wave of relief wash over him. The more Hinata avoided talking about her father, the more he had begun to fear that it was because Hiashi had personally inflicted some kind of physical trauma onto her that she was too scared to open up about. Even the thought of Hinata having to go through something like that made him sick to his stomach, and the thought of it coming from her own father made his blood boil. He was incredibly thankful to know that he had simply been overthinking and that she hadn't had to experience something so cruel. Feeling her hand softly running through his hair, he felt himself begin to calm down in a matter of seconds.
"I love when she does this. It makes me want to lay my head on her lap and let her do it all day. It makes me... sleepy."
"Look at me, Naruto."
Naruto untucked his chin from her shoulder so that he could meet her gaze but kept his arms wrapped firmly around her body.
With her arms still clinging around his neck, she met his eyes with a look of sympathy. "I know you must be really curious and confused about my relationship with my father, and I promise I'm going to tell you everything as soon as you're done talking to him."
"I'd like that very much. Maybe we could go back to my place so that we can have some privacy? We can even pick up some warm cinnamon rolls on the way, if you want. My treat?"
"That sounds perfect, Naruto. But for right now... I want you to trust me when I say that things between my father and I weren't as bad as you've probably been thinking, and that they're even better now."
Every word she spoke continued to ease his mind, and suddenly, things didn't seem so bad.
"So when we go inside, I don't want you to feel angry toward him. I also don't want you to be afraid of him or what he might say to you. I want you to keep an open mind and be as happy as I am that you're finally meeting him. Can you do that for me, my love? Can you trust me when I say that having this conversation with him is a good thing for us, and that our future together is only going to get better from here?"
Looking down at the woman he loved in his arms, Naruto could see that Hinata was ready to continue moving forward in their lives, and that she was happily asking him to join her in taking this next step in their relationship.
"I guess I really have just been overthinking the whole thing. If Hiashi had actually been such a bad person, then Hinata wouldn't be so excited about me meeting him. So, I'm going to trust her. I still want her to explain everything to me, but until then... if she says that things are good now, then I believe her, and I'm going to meet Hiashi with an open mind. She's right... This is a good thing for us."
"I trust you, Hinata, as I always have. I'm still nervous, but I'm also looking forward to meeting your father, and if you're ready to do this, then I am too."
Her look of concern disappeared, and the sweet smile that began shining on her face melted his heart all over again.
"It's okay to be nervous. I'll even admit that I'm a little nervous too. I imagine he'll want to speak to you alone at some point, and if so, don't panic. I'm sure it's just so he can have some one-on-one time with you and get to know you and your intentions."
"I'd expect nothing less, and I'm sure we'll get along just fine. Just remember, Hinata, that if for some reason this doesn't go as planned, I'll never leave your side, and I'll never let anything separate us. Not even him."
Hinata's smile brightened further as Naruto cupped her cheek with his hand. Her arms almost pulled him in on instinct, for she was eager to return the kiss she knew she was about to receive from him.
"I know, Naruto. I always have. No matter what happens, I'll be waiting for you."
He flashed her a warm smile and caressed her cheek with his thumb. "That's my girl."
Even just faintly hearing that familiar possessiveness in his voice sent a wave of excitement through her body, but just before Hinata could comment on his flirty tone, he leaned down and silenced her with a tender kiss of his own. Even if it was slow and sweet, it was just as addicting as when he would pull her body against his and hungrily attack her lips. Aggressive and lustful, sensual and loving, it didn't matter. As long as it was coming from Naruto, she couldn't get enough, and no matter what happened in the next few minutes, it couldn't possibly change that. She would forever need more of him and his loving affection.
When he pulled away, she was blushing heavily, and his smile only widened as he noticed this.
He chose to not tease her further since this wasn't exactly an appropriate time or place. Although, after all of the reading he had secretly done last night, he couldn't deny that Hinata was on his mind, and that he would've loved to let their bodies explore each other once again. Even now, as nervous as he was... he was already painting pictures in his head of how he wanted to take her next.
She would be face down on his bed with her hips in the air, her wet folds on full display for him; the same submissive position she had teased him with once before. He would enter her from behind, and then, after grabbing firmly onto her slim waist for stability, he would fuck her senseless while she called out his name. He would watch her desperately bite down on the sheets in a futile attempt to keep herself from screaming in ecstasy, and even as her body trembled from finding such divine pleasure, he would continue to ravish her until his selfish and primal desires were satisfied.
But that would have to wait.
"So, you ready?" He asked.
"I'm ready if you are." She replied cheerfully, a pink hue still present on her cheeks.
"Then let's do this, Hinata. Lead the way."
Flashing him one last smile, Hinata took a deep breath before opening the door to her home and leading Naruto inside.
Upon entering, Naruto was briefly reminded of when he had come here once before to surprise Hinata, and the intimacy that they had shared in her room afterward. However, he also reminded himself that Hiashi was (presumably) still completely unaware of that visit. He made a mental note that he might need to act surprised by the home's impressive interior in order to give the false impression that this was his first time inside.
He heard footsteps approaching but was relieved to see that it was only Hanabi excitedly coming to greet them. He quickly glanced around to see if the father of the two girls was coming as well, but he didn't see him anywhere and figured Hiashi must've been somewhere else in the house at the moment.
"Hey guys! What's up, Naruto? You nervous?" Hanabi asked with a cocky smile.
"Don't tease him, Hanabi. After all, I'm sure Konohamaru will be nervous too when he has to meet Father some day." Hinata said smugly.
Hanabi's face went beet red. "W-What? I don't know what you're talking about!"
Naruto's eyes widened in surprise. "Whoa whoa whoa, what's this about Kono? It's been a while since I've had a chance to catch up with him. Did I miss something? Are you two..." He stopped for a moment before letting out an overly dramatic gasp. "Ohhh, how cute!"
He was now wearing a shit-eating grin and trying not to laugh too loudly at Hanabi's obvious embarrassment. Just from the one time he had met Hinata's little sister, he could tell that she was the type to tease and make fun, so he decided he should get used to cracking back at her from time to time.
"Shhh! Keep your voice down!" Hanabi whispered frantically. "And, no! That's not happening! That's never happening! He's just a friend, nothing more!"
"Oh, that's too bad." Naruto replied. "I'll be sure to tell him that next time I see him."
"N-No! I mean... Don't tell him... I..."
"Haha, look at your face! Relax, Hanabi, I'm totally kidding. I won't say anything... for now." Naruto teased.
"Whatever, loser." She spat back playfully while rolling her eyes. "So, um, big sis, how did you even hear about... that?"
Hinata chuckled. "Do you really think that I don't know about you secretly using my phone? I've probably eavesdropped on a dozen of your conversations by now. You know, you could've just asked to borrow it. I would've let you."
Naruto almost felt guilty knowing that he had been on the receiving end of one of those calls, but that didn't stop him from choking back another laugh as Hanabi covered her red face with her hands.
"Oh... my... god... If you'll excuse me, I'll be in my room for the rest of my life. Nice knowing you two." Hanabi said from behind her hands before starting to walk off.
"Before you do that, may I ask where Father is at this time?" Hinata asked.
"Same place as always." Her little sister's words were muffled by her hands as she quickly made her escape and disappeared further into the halls of the house.
Hinata then turned to Naruto and smiled as his laughter finally died down. "Well, that was funny to watch." She said.
"It sure was!"
"It sounds like my father is in his study room. So, you ready?"
"As ready as I can be."
"Right this way."
Naruto began anticipating what he would say to Hiashi as Hinata led him through a series of dimly lit hallways and corridors. He also imagined all kinds of things that Hiashi might say to him, and in the end, none of them seemed more probable than the other. He had absolutely no idea what to expect, and it was driving him mad with anxiety.
"No matter what, just be honest. Show him your true, honest intentions. Show him how much Hinata really means to you."
Hinata eventually came to a stop in front of a wooden door and whispered quietly. "This is his study room. We'll go in together at first, but after that... I don't know what will happen."
Naruto reached down and grabbed her hand, giving it a gentle squeeze. "I know. It's okay. I'm ready."
She met his gaze and returned his comforting smile before turning her attention back to the door in front of them. Raising her empty hand, she hesitated just for a moment before biting her lip and forcing her knuckles to make contact with the door.
"Come in." A deep voice said from the other side.
Hinata gave Naruto's hand one final squeeze before letting it go and opening the door. "Father? I've brought Naruto here to speak with you."
The two stepped inside the room, and Naruto laid his eyes on the Hyuuga clan leader for the first time. He didn't see much resemblance between him and Hinata, other than their dark hair and pale eyes. He guessed that Hinata probably looked more like her mother.
"That reminds me, Hinata's never mentioned her mother to me. I never really thought to ask about her either, but she's clearly not around here. I wonder what happened to her..."
As Hinata's father looked away from his desk and up at them, Naruto felt the older man's gaze lock with his. Hiashi wore a blank expression, giving Naruto no indication of what he was thinking. Even so, his pale eyes staring him down from across the room was rather intimidating.
They stopped just a few steps inside, and a brief silence fell over the room until Hiashi slowly stood up from his desk.
Remembering that this was a place of formalities, Naruto decided to take a leap out of his comfort zone. He finally broke eye contact with Hiashi and gave a respectful bow. "Thank you for having me, Lord Hyuuga. You have a lovely home."
He raised himself back up to look at Hiashi again, and a moment passed by before his bow was returned.
"It's a pleasure to have you here, Naruto Uzumaki. I understand that you've arrived home from a mission only yesterday. I hope that my summoning has not inconvenienced you." His voice was as stoic as his face. He was formal and well spoken, with no detectable emotion within his words.
"Not at all. I've been looking forward to finally meeting you." Naruto replied.
"Likewise. I have asked you to meet with me today because, as Hinata has probably already informed you, I would like to exchange a few words with you in regards to your relationship with my daughter."
"I understand."
"I guess we're cutting right to the chase." Naruto thought.
"Very well then." Hiashi said before turning to look at Hinata. "Daughter, if you would please give us the room, I would like to speak to our guest in private. We have much to discuss."
"Yes, Father."
She was gone in seconds. Even though he had fully expected it, Naruto hated watching Hinata leave the room. He knew that the small smile she gave him on the way out was supposed to be comforting, but it didn't change the fact that he was now alone in a room with his girlfriend's father whom he was meeting for the first time.
Hiashi sat back down and then motioned to the other chair across from his desk. "Please, sit."
Naruto did as he was asked and sat down, keeping a close eye on the man in front of him.
"So far, so good."
Hiashi's eyes met Naruto's again, and the brief silence that sat between them was finally broken.
"Naruto Uzumaki. That name has carried different reputations over the years. Once, a demon child outcasted and resented by the whole village. And now, a godlike war hero, a savior of the world that people look up to and adore. Times have changed quite a lot for you, haven't they?"
"Yes, they have. I certainly have no complaints."
"I don't doubt that. Although, it would seem as if one particular thing never changed. Through it all, I believe that Hinata's feelings for you have always been the same, even when you two were merely small children. As far as I know, she's had her eyes on you since the very beginning."
Naruto felt his cheeks becoming hot, and he was sure that Hiashi could see his face turning red. "Oh, so this isn't entirely new to him. He's already known about her feelings for a while, or at least he's been suspicious of them."
"I didn't notice for a long time, but, yes, she has. When I eventually came to learn about her feelings, I felt really guilty for not seeing them years before. Honestly, that guilt is something I still struggle with from time to time."
Hiashi let out a low hum. "Nevertheless, the result is the same. You've still discovered these feelings both within her and within yourself. Whether it had been years ago or only yesterday, it still would have brought you right here to me at one point or another."
"I suppose you're right." Naruto replied.
"With that being said, let me be clear. When I first heard of your relationship with my daughter, I wasn't quite sure what to think. However, Hinata tells me that you treat her well, and that you make her quite happy. So, I'll tell you what I told her. If what she says is true, then I currently have no reason or desire to take that away from you two."
Naruto was trying to match Hiashi's demeanor by keeping a straight face and speaking formally, but after that, he couldn't help but smile. Knowing that he made his girlfriend so happy made his heart flutter, and hearing her father say so was especially fulfilling.
Hiashi continued. "However, before I officially give you my approval, I require that you and I discuss matters further. To start off, I would like to know, in your own words, what your feelings and intentions are with Hinata." Then, Hiashi's gaze narrowed and his expression hardened. "And don't lie to me, boy. These eyes see more than just chakra flows."
"I understand, Lord Hyuuga, and I have no intention of being dishonest with you." Naruto replied. He was slightly taken aback by the sudden sternness in Hiashi's tone, but he had also kind of expected it from the beginning.
Hiashi simply nodded and awaited Naruto's response. Naruto took a second to figure out how to describe what he felt for Hinata and the future that he envisioned with her. It wasn't going to be easy to put these powerful feelings into words, and it surely wouldn't be any easier describing them to her father.
"In my own words..."
Once he decided what to say, he spilled his guts, not holding anything back.
"Hinata has always been important to me, just as all of my other friends have. But, I eventually learned that she felt something different for me, something only for me, and at first, I couldn't quite comprehend what that meant. Just as you said, I was outcasted throughout most of my life, so it really surprised me to learn that she had felt this way about me for so long. Before her, I never knew what it meant to love someone, or what it meant to be loved by someone. So, when she confessed her feelings to me, it was really difficult for me to understand them."
Naruto paused for a moment to allow Hiashi a chance to give any kind of input or response.
"I see. Continue."
"Thankfully, even after all these years of me being oblivious to her feelings, Hinata's patience hadn't run out just yet, and she took the time to explain to me how she knew she loved me. When she helped me understand what it was like to love someone, and when I started to understand what her feelings for me really meant, I couldn't help but feel the exact same way about her. I admired her silent yet everlonging commitment to me. I adored that unconditional love that she had felt for me all along, even if I hadn't known it. Despite the years of solitude that I suffered through, she made me feel as if I had always meant something to somebody. She made me feel as if I had been truly loved even at my lowest point. I wanted to make her feel that way too, and that's when everything suddenly clicked for me. That's when I knew I loved her too."
"I imagine that must've been quite a revelation for you."
"It was. My feelings for her captivated me entirely. I caught myself completely off guard. I felt so vulnerable, and for some reason, I loved every bit of that feeling. I loved discovering that only she could make me feel this way. I still love knowing that, that there's nobody that could ever set my heart on fire like she does. Hinata might have fallen first, but... I think I might have fallen harder."
"That's quite a bold statement, Uzumaki. It is my understanding that you two have not been together very long, have you? How could your newly discovered feelings compare to her years of unrequited pining?"
"That one stung a little. But, I see where he's coming from."
"Lord Hyuuga, I told you I wouldn't be dishonest with you. With that being said, I must admit that it's only been a couple of months since Hinata and I connected in this way. I know that doesn't seem very long, but it doesn't change the way I feel. I love her, and ever since we found our way to each other, we've only grown closer. Every day, I fall for her even more. That's the truth. That's what I truly feel for her."
Hiashi stroked his chin for a moment before letting out a soft hum. "I see. It's true that the heart knows no bounds, and I suppose time is no exception."
"My heart has never been more certain of anything in my life."
Hiashi was silent for a moment, his pale eyes staring right into Naruto's. Naruto still couldn't guess what was going on in the older man's head. Maybe Hiashi was impressed with his declaration, or maybe he though it was total bullshit. Only time would tell.
The room remained silent, so Naruto took another step forward in the conversation. "Forgive me. I know that was a lot to listen to, but every bit of it is the truth. As for my intentions, I want to continue being with Hinata. I want to keep making her as happy as she makes me. I want to keep watching our relationship grow. I want to stay by her side, and it would mean everything to me if I could have your approval."
And now, all Naruto could do was wait. The ball was in Hiashi's court, and whatever happened next was up to him and him alone.
"I think I made a good impression. He didn't seem particularly impressed, but he didn't seem upset either. I was completely honest in everything I said. If anything, I just hope that he sees that."
However... Hiashi eventually took on a displeased expression, and the words that left his lips felt like kunai stabbing into Naruto's heart.
"And what if I said no? What if I said that your petty little sob stories don't fool me, and that I forbid you to ever see or speak to my daughter again?" The veins in Hiashi's face contorted as both of his Byakugan were activated, and Naruto could hear faint aggression growing in his voice. "Would you be able to accept that, Uzumaki? Or would you dare to stand against me and the Hyuuga clan?"
Suddenly, Naruto felt like he was paralyzed. Everything he and Hinata had been through flashed before his eyes, and the thought of losing it all made him feel sick. The walls felt like they were closing in on him, until the room got so small that every bit of confidence he had held onto was choked out of him. He couldn't move. He couldn't speak. He couldn't breathe.
"What the hell? Why!? I thought it was going so well! Was it something I said? Was it the way I said it? What could I have possibly..."
And then, an idea struck him that made the room open back up, and he was able to find that confidence once again.
"No... No, he's testing me! He's trying to see if I'll fight for her, or if I'll just pussy out. Not gonna happen. I just have to play along and hope that he's bluffing."
"With all due respect, Lord Hyuuga... I could never accept that. Hinata has become the most important person in the world to me, and I could never be the same without her in my life. Besides, I made a promise to her, and I never go back on my word."
Hiashi scoffed. "I see you've stuck with that same old nindo. And just what 'promise' would that be?"
Naruto narrowed his gaze at the older man in front of him and spoke confidently. "That I'll tear this whole world down before I let it take her away from me, or me from her."
"Foolish boy. You shouldn't make promises you can't keep."
"If you should believe anything I've told you here today, it's that I have every intention of keeping that promise. Lord Hyuuga, I have been nothing but honest with you. And I want nothing more than for you to be supportive of our relationship, so that you too can be included in our future together. But if that's not something you want to be a part of, you should know that I'm still going to do whatever it takes to be with her. You can't scare me away. I value her love more than my own life, and I will gladly stand against the entire world if that's what it takes to keep her by my side."
Hiashi's eyes closed for a brief moment, and to Naruto's surprise, he heard the Hyuuga leader chuckle as his lips curled into a small smile. When his eyes opened again, the veins in his face relaxed and his pearly irises returned to their normal state.
"Good answer." He said, his smile still barely noticeable.
"...L-Lord Hyuuga?" The blond said nervously.
"Please forgive my hostility, Naruto. I only wanted to ensure that your commitment is true."
"Oh, I-I see... So, just to be clear..."
"You have nothing to fear, for I was only testing you. If one is not willing to fight for the person they love, then they don't deserve them in the first place. I am well satisfied with your response and I can see that your love for Hinata is genuine."
"My heart is fucking racing, but I was right! In that case..."
"So, I have your approval, then?"
Unfortunately, the smile Hiashi wore faded rather quickly. However, the icy cold stare he had brandished throughout their conversation had also disappeared, which was progress that Naruto couldn't complain about. When Hiashi's face returned to its normal blank expression, this time appearing a bit more relaxed, Naruto felt a slight sense of comfort wash over him. Despite the fact that they had exchanged threatening words only seconds ago, the room now seemed much less tense.
"We'll get to that in a moment. There is still one matter of concern I'd like to discuss with you first." Hiashi answered.
"I understand."
"He sure is making me work for it..."
"Now, what I'm about to ask you may be difficult to answer, but, please... be honest." Hiashi said.
"Oh god... he's... he's gonna ask me if... if Hinata and I... if we've had... No, please, anything but that!"
"Um, okay..." Naruto replied, already preparing for the worst.
"As of right now, do you intend to marry Hinata?"
Naruto blinked a few times before fully registering what Hiashi had just asked him. "Oh, I... Well, Hinata and I haven't really discussed that yet, but... yes, I do wish to marry her some day."
"Some day? Some day soon? Some day in the far future? Even if you haven't discussed it with her, what are your thoughts on the matter?"
After searching for a definitive answer, Naruto found himself at a dead end. He did want Hinata's hand in marriage at some point. That wasn't even a question. However, he had been so focused on taking their relationship one step at a time that he had given little thought as to when it might actually happen. Surely, it was still too soon for them to start planning something like that.
Or was it?
"Honestly, I'm not quite sure. I know I want to marry her, but I haven't really thought about when. I mean... we're both still kinda young, right?"
"You're not wrong. If I may give a word of advice?" Hiashi asked.
Naruto was quite surprised that Hinata's father was already offering him marital advice, but he wasn't about to complain. It only gave him more confidence that Hiashi had indeed approved of him, even if he hadn't yet said it himself.
"Please, of course."
"Firstly, you should discuss the topic of marriage with Hinata, as well as everything that follows, until you've both developed some kind of consensus. Now, keep in mind, I'm not telling you to propose to her. In fact, I'd strongly suggest otherwise, for now anyway. Rather, you should mention the idea as an important decision of your future together and listen to her thoughts. You never know what you two may or may not agree on."
"That makes sense to me. You're saying it's better if we both understand our separate opinions on the matter beforehand instead of jumping headfirst into something we aren't prepared to handle together."
"Precisely. I'm not saying that people don't marry at your age. In fact, some people marry even younger and turn out just fine. On the contrary, other couples debate back and forth for years before a decision is made, and it's not always a happy one. It's normal for people in a relationship to disagree, and that's something you need to be wary of."
Suddenly, Naruto couldn't help but feel slightly anxious again. Only this time, it didn't have anything to do with Hiashi.
"It's obvious that Hinata wants us to be together forever. That's something we both clearly agree on. But, what about an official marriage? When I think about having a big ceremony with all of our friends supporting and congratulating us... that's something I really want. I also can't deny that having a ring on her finger claiming her as mine does sound quite nice. But, what if she doesn't want the same thing? Would I be okay with that? He's right. That's something we need to have a serious talk about."
"Nerve-wracking, isn't it? To wonder if your partner will agree with you on something so life-changing?" Hiashi asked, as if he could tell that Naruto was deep in thought about the subject at hand. It almost made him uncomfortable, how the Hyuuga leader's eyes seemed to pry into his mind so easily.
"Very." Naruto replied. "I never really thought about it like that before. This is still so new to me."
"It's new for both of you, which is exactly why I'm telling you these things. I'm only trying to help you prepare for the unknown."
"I can't thank you enough for that, Lord Hyuuga. Although, I won't lie, I wasn't expecting to discuss marriage with you today with it only being our first time meeting. I'm not complaining, I just wasn't expecting you to be so... welcoming." Naruto said with an awkward chuckle.
"Yes, well, normally I would have entrusted your parents to teach you about such things, but of course, I understand that your situation isn't so normal."
"That's true... I suppose I should thank you again."
"There's no need. I know it seems fast and rather sudden, but it's only advice. It doesn't hurt to think about it ahead of time, and in the end, it's up to you to decide how quickly you act on it."
"I understand. Also... um, Hinata mentioned there being certain Hyuuga traditions that might interfere with our relationship... So, I guess I just figured that marriage would be a completely different conversation for a completely different time."
Hiashi looked down at one of the papers on his desk for a moment and clenched his jaw. When he looked back up to Naruto, he reached his hand out toward the numerous shelves that lined the walls of the room they were sitting in.
"Look at these walls, Naruto. Tell me what you see."
"Uh... scrolls?"
"Scrolls. Papers. Documents... Records. Records of everything the Hyuuga clan has ever said, done, or intended on doing. I've been studying these records ever since the clan's compound was rebuilt, and in the process, I've been constructing revisions for the future."
"Revisions? What do you mean?"
"For example, I plan to completely abolish the separation of the main and side branches, and to finally bring the Hyuuga clan together as one whole family. No longer will people of this family be branded and cast aside."
"Oh, I see. I think that's a wonderful idea, but, you've lived under these traditions your whole life, right? What made you suddenly decide to start changing things?"
Hiashi let out a deep sigh before locking his gaze with Naruto's again.
"You."
Naruto was taken aback. "M-Me?"
"Indirectly, yes. More so, it was Neji and the sacrifice he made for you and Hinata that caused me to look at this clan differently. You know that he once despised the entire main branch, especially Hinata herself. Like many of us Hyuugas, namely those from the side branch, he was cold and bitter for much of his life... But it was you who helped him find reason to change, and in the end, he died with a smile on his face, free from his own fate."
Naruto was rendered speechless as the memory of Neji's death replayed itself in an instant. He still vividly remembered every detail; the sound of blood hitting the ground as it spilled from his friend's body, the weight on his shoulder becoming heavier as Neji's life force was drained, and the look of despair he saw in Hinata's eyes as she helplessly watched her cousin fade away. But what he remembered most of all...
"Naruto, Hinata is willing to die for you. So remember, you hold more than one life in your hands. And it seems... that my life may have also been one of them."
"Lord Hyuuga... I..."
Naruto remained unable to speak, so Hiashi continued. "I'm not sure what Hinata has told you about me, but I've never been the father she deserves. I'm trying to change for the better, just as Neji did, and I'm pursuing a similar change for the Hyuuga clan as a whole. Neji is who helped me envision that, but nevertheless, it all started with you. So, I want you to know that I'm very grateful for the influence you've made on this family and its future."
"I... Thank you, Lord Hyuuga. I'm honored to know that I've made such an impact for you and your clan."
"Indeed, you have. There is still much to do, but as I told Hinata, changes are coming. For now, the details aren't important, as it will take time to fully implement these changes into the Hyuuga clan, but if everything you've told me today is true, then I believe things will work out for you two quite well in the long run. With that being said, I assure you that no tradition will be an issue to your relationship with her."
Naruto's lips began to form another grin. He had walked into this room not having any clue what to expect, and at this point, he was sure he'd walk out as joyous as he could be.
"I'm very happy to hear that. I know it's probably not my place, but if there's ever anything I can do to assist you with these changes, I'd be happy to help." Naruto said.
"I appreciate that, Naruto. I'll keep that in mind. In the meantime... you can tell Hinata that I have given you my approval to continue seeing her. I'm certain she'll be quite happy to hear that."
The grin on Naruto's face only grew larger.
"As am I. Again, thank you, Lord Hyuuga. For everything."
"Please, call me Hiashi. If you're going to be around here more often, then there's no need for us to be so formal. Which reminds me... Will you be joining us for Hinata's birthday celebration on the 27th?"
"Absolutely! I wouldn't miss it for the world."
"Excellent. I'll be seeing you soon, then."
Hiashi stood up from his chair and outstretched his hand toward Naruto. "It has been both an honor and a pleasure to meet you, Naruto Uzumaki. I look forward to seeing you again soon."
Naruto stood up and gladly accepted Hiashi's handshake. "The feeling's mutual. Thank you for your time and hospitality, Lord... um, Hiashi."
When the two men broke away from their handshake, Naruto was finally dismissed. However, just as he was about to open the door so that he could exit the study room, Hiashi stopped him for one final word.
"Oh, and Naruto?"
"Yes?"
"There is... just one more thing. I'll make it quick."
"Of course. I'm all ears."
Hiashi's blank expression shifted just slightly. Now, it showed a kind of seriousness that Naruto couldn't quite recognize. It wasn't threatening, but it wasn't exactly comforting either. For some reason, it almost made him feel guilty, as if he had gotten caught doing something wrong.
"I was your age once. I know what typically goes on between young adults in a relationship. I won't go into detail, but I do ask that both of you make smart and responsible decisions. I don't need to explain myself further, do I?" Hiashi said with an eyebrow raised.
"N-No sir. We'll be responsible. You have my word."
The Hyuuga leader nodded in response. "Furthermore, as long as Hinata is still living under my roof, I expect you'll have her home at a reasonable time."
Naruto was tempted to ask about possibly being allowed an occasional sleepover, but decided not to push his luck. There were always other methods of achieving that, so long as they weren't caught. What Hiashi didn't know wouldn't hurt, right?
"Understood."
"Good. Well then, if there's nothing else... I believe someone is waiting for you."
Hinata lost count of how many times she had walked up and down the long stretch of hallway outside the study room. At first, she had been tempted to stand just outside the door and listen to their conversation, but the guilt of eavesdropping as well as the fear of getting caught prevented her from doing so. So instead, she decided to pass the time by stretching her legs and getting some steps in for the day.
"They've been in there for a while. I wonder how it's going."
She hadn't heard any yelling or other signs of conflict, so she assumed everything was going well. Although, the amount of time they were taking eventually began to eat away at her, and she couldn't help but become increasingly curious as the minutes passed. After finishing another lap, she passed by the door once again. She stared at it in contemplation, and after a moment, she decided that she would walk just one more lap before she finally resorted to eavesdropping.
However, she was only a few steps past the door when she finally heard it open. She turned her head around so fast she almost gave herself whiplash, and when she saw Naruto exiting the room, she rushed over to him.
"So? How did it go?" She whispered quietly after he closed the door behind him. She tried not to seem too anxious, but the truth was that she was dying to know if everything had actually gone the way they had hoped.
The grin that appeared on his face made her concerns disappear entirely. "He's got a hell of a poker face, but I think we got along great! We talked a lot, and after everything, he officially gave me his approval for us to continue seeing each other!"
He too spoke quietly as to not be overheard by Hiashi, who was still just on the other side of the door.
Overjoyed, Hinata stood on her tiptoes and threw her arms around him, hugging him tighter than ever before. "Oh Naruto, that's wonderful! See? I told you there was nothing to worry about!"
Naruto eagerly returned her embrace and let out a chuckle. "It's true, you did tell me that. I never should've doubted you, Hinata."
Suddenly, he felt happiness overwhelm him as reality set in. With Hiashi's blessing, there were no longer any obstacles that stood before them. Sure, there were still discussions to have with each other and things to plan for the future; Naruto understood that now more than ever. But now, there were no longer any outcomes to fear, approvals to obtain, or people to win over. From here on, every step they took together would fulfill them in whatever way they chose. They were bound by only each other.
He broke away from their hug just long enough for Hinata to look back up at him. Before she could say anything, he leaned down and kissed her longingly.
"Everything is falling into place, and this is only the beginning. There's still so much ahead of us, and there's nobody I'd rather experience it with than you, Hinata."
When he felt the need to breathe again, he broke their kiss and pressed his forehead lovingly to hers.
"I love you, Hinata. I know I say this all the time, but... you've made me so unbelievably happy."
"I love you too, Naruto, and I love knowing that I make you as happy as you make me. I'll never get tired of hearing you say it."
He let out a content hum and pulled away to meet her gaze. "So, what do we do now?"
Hinata smiled warmly at him. "Now... As promised, I believe I owe you a conversation about my childhood."
Naruto smiled back. "That's true. And I believe I owe you some cinnamon rolls."
"Well then, how about we go pick some up before heading to your apartment, and on the way, you can tell me everything I missed out on! I'm really curious to know what you and my father talked about."
After a quick moment of contemplation, Naruto decided not to bring up the part about marriage to Hinata just yet. He wanted to allow her plenty of time to share her past with him, and to be there for her if she needed support afterward. Marriage could be another long and possibly difficult discussion to have, so he decided it was best to save it for another day when they were both more relaxed. Besides, today was already a huge step forward for them. There was no need to get ahead of themselves.
"I'd be happy to! Do you have a favorite place to get cinnamon rolls from?" Naruto asked.
"Hmm... now that you mention it, Sakura and I got some from this one cafe that were really good."
"Alright then, you lead the way. It's my treat, so I'm gonna spoil you with all the cinnamon rolls you want!"
"Say less!"
Hand in hand, they began the long walk back through the halls with smiles on their faces. It was quiet until Hinata heard Naruto softly chuckling to himself.
"What is it, Naruto?"
"Hehe... Your dad totally likes me."
She couldn't help but laugh with him. "He told you that?"
"Well... not exactly. But I can tell."