Paper Rings & Broken Hearts

They left the old house behind, the creak of the wooden gate closing behind them feeling heavier than it should’ve. Sasuke walked in silence, his hands tucked in his pockets, the afternoon breeze slipping through the narrow streets of the Uchiha district. The remnants of his memories clung to his chest like dust he couldn’t quite shake off, and for a moment, he almost regretted showing her that part of himself. Almost.

But she hadn’t pried. She hadn’t filled the silence with empty words. Just listened, and somehow, that made it easier.

He glanced over his shoulder briefly to make sure Hinata was still following. She was, as quiet as ever, but the soft warmth in her expression hadn’t left. That look, the way she’d reacted to his words, it lingered in his mind.

Too much.

Everything she had planned…it was too much.

Not in a bad way.

Just overwhelming.

Sasuke wasn’t used to being thought of. Not like this. Not in a way that felt so specific to who he was. No empty gestures. No generic gifts. Just quiet things, personal, intentional. Things only someone who’d paid attention would know to do. He didn’t know how to react to that. It made something churn in his stomach. Not discomfort.

He cleared his throat.

"What time did you reserve the archives?"

Hinata blinked, startled slightly, then tucked a strand of hair behind her ear. “It’s in thirty minutes. Since it’s about a fifteen-minute walk, I thought maybe…we could take a more scenic route?” She hesitated, glancing at him with a nervous smile. “Only if you want to, of course. It’s your day.”

Sasuke’s eyes narrowed slightly, not in irritation, just thought. She always did that. Gave him options, never forced him into anything. That was the difference. He appreciated it more than he let on.

“…It’s fine,” he said simply. Then after a beat, added, “Scenic means less people. Less noise.”

He caught the small smile that bloomed across her lips, even though she looked down at the path quickly, as if to hide it.

He paused mid-step.

"I’ll follow your lead," he said lowly.

Hinata turned back, surprised, but nodded. She stepped ahead of him, her hands clasped gently in front of her. Her pace was slow, thoughtful, careful to match his without being obvious about it. It didn’t escape him. Sasuke kept his gaze forward as they walked, letting the sound of rustling leaves and distant birds fill the spaces between them. It was peaceful. Simple. The kind of peace he hadn’t known he missed.

And it was strange but nice.

Almost too nice.

They walked in silence for a few minutes, Hinata quietly leading them along the winding path. Sasuke watched her discreetly from the corner of his eye, observing the gentle sway of the pale lavender sundress she wore, noting the way the fabric brushed against her knees with each step. If she wasn't in a skirt, she was usually in a sundress. He never mentioned it, but secretly he liked the way she dressed, simple, feminine, and quietly elegant. It suited her.

His gaze drifted upward, noting the way a few strands of her dark hair fell loose from her ponytail, framing her face. He caught himself staring and quickly averted his gaze, the tips of his ears warming slightly. He didn’t like how easy it was becoming to notice little details about her.

Ahead, Sasuke noticed another couple standing under a tree, leaning closely together, smiling brightly as they took a photo. He glanced down at Hinata, finding her watching them with a small, wistful smile. He wondered briefly what thoughts crossed her mind in that moment, what made her expression soften like that, but he quickly dismissed it. Clearing his throat quietly, Sasuke decided to shift the conversation.

"About dinner tomorrow," he started calmly, glancing sideways at her, "what’s the plan?"

Hinata blinked, her eyes shifting away from the couple and back to him. "Oh, my father said it'll be later in the evening, around six," she explained softly. "I was thinking maybe we could meet there, at the manor gates. If I arrive before you, I’ll just wait there…so we can go inside together."

Sasuke considered that for a moment, indifferent either way, but gave a small nod. "Fine," he murmured. Then, after another quiet pause, he added, "Did he say if it’s just dinner, or is he planning to pry into our marriage again?"

Hinata’s gaze flickered uncertainly. "Father described it as just a dinner," she admitted, her voice hesitant, "but considering we’ve been married for a year now, I have a feeling it might be more of a…check-in."

Sasuke’s jaw tightened subtly. He wasn't looking forward to any kind of 'check-in.' How could he be? Eleven months of their marriage had been hell. Even recalling it now made his stomach twist uncomfortably. He hadn’t exactly been the ideal husband, rarely home, often leaving the village for weeks at a time without saying a word to her. When he was around, they fought constantly. If he wasn't out of Konoha, he was with Sakura, stubbornly holding onto something he shouldn't have. He'd deliberately been cruel to Hinata, angry at being forced into a marriage he’d never asked for. He remembered bitterly telling her that she wasn't his type—that he would never have chosen her. Those harsh words came back with clarity now, a reminder of how spiteful he’d been.

And then there was the time she slapped him. Sasuke nearly smirked at the memory. He'd never forget that moment, the sharp sting of her palm across his cheek, her wide, hurt-filled eyes glaring up at him afterward. At the time he'd been furious after the shock wore off, but looking back, he deserved it. He was honestly surprised it had only happened once.

Now things were different. Better. Much better. But a month of good days didn’t erase eleven months of cruelty, neglect, and bitter arguments. He felt an uncomfortable pang of regret in his chest. Even now, seeing their friends constantly express shock at seeing them getting along grated on him deeply. Every curious look, every surprised remark, every hesitant mention of their past, it was a slap of guilt across his face, repeatedly reminding him of how badly he'd screwed up.

He glanced over at Hinata again, the warm sunlight gently illuminating her pale skin, and then quickly looked ahead once more. Yes, he’d been a bastard, but things had changed. They weren't those people anymore. He didn’t want reminders of who he’d been. He wanted to move forward. Because, surprisingly, he now found himself caring about what happened to her. Protecting her felt natural, something he did because he wanted to, not out of obligation or guilt.

He finally spoke, voice firm and direct. "I'll be respectful," he stated calmly, "but if your father or that rude old man you call grandfather decides to cross a line, don't expect me to just sit there quietly." He looked at her pointedly, eyes narrowed slightly. "I won’t be treated like a doormat. Family or not, if they push too far, I’ll push back."

Hinata blinked softly, taken aback for a brief moment before her gaze softened in understanding. She nodded gently, her expression thoughtful but accepting.

"Of course," she replied softly. "I wouldn’t expect you to."

Sasuke exhaled quietly, tension easing just slightly from his shoulders. He trusted her words, trusted her understanding.

They walked on, silence settling comfortably between them again. Sasuke let his thoughts drift, still processing his own complicated emotions about tomorrow. It wouldn’t be easy, but he felt steadier somehow knowing she understood and wouldn’t hold it against him if things got heated.

x-x-x-x

As they approached the archives, Sasuke allowed his gaze to wander around the building’s entrance, quiet curiosity flickering subtly in his eyes. He had never visited this place before, not that he’d ever felt inclined to. To him, archives and historical documents usually felt stale and distant, matters of little importance to someone who had grown accustomed to moving forward, never looking back.

Yet, walking through those doors today felt oddly significant. Maybe because Hinata had chosen it, chosen it specifically with him in mind.

As soon as they stepped through the heavy wooden doors, an elderly woman looked up from behind the desk, her eyes brightening immediately as she recognized Hinata.

"Ah, Uchiha-san!" The older woman’s voice was warm and welcoming. "You’re right on time. I’ve prepared the records you requested. You'll find them in the reserved section."

Sasuke felt an odd jolt at hearing the name ‘Uchiha-san’ directed toward Hinata. He blinked, startled. He had never actually heard anyone refer to her by his clan name, not directly. He knew, of course, that it was likely common, probably a frequent occurrence, but he’d never been around to hear it before. The unfamiliarity left him momentarily speechless, unsure of how to process the strange sensation it caused in his chest.

He glanced over at Hinata, curious to see her reaction. Her cheeks held a soft, faint rosy glow, her gaze lowered shyly. Seeing her blush like that triggered a wave of embarrassment within him, heat suddenly flaring up his neck. Sasuke quickly coughed into his fist, subtly adjusting the collar of his shirt as he averted his eyes awkwardly. Damn it, why was something so small affecting him this much?

Pulling himself together, Sasuke cleared his throat, following Hinata as she politely thanked the elderly woman and walked toward the reserved area. Quietly, he stepped closer to her side.

"Do you come here often?" he murmured, genuinely curious.

Hinata glanced up at him briefly, then back down, nodding softly. "When we first married, I wanted to learn more about your clan," she admitted softly, her voice slightly hesitant. "I thought it might help me understand you a bit better…your history, the way you were raised. So sometimes I would come here and read through different archives on the Uchiha."

Sasuke raised an eyebrow, a quiet wave of guilt and admiration twisting within him. "For someone who didn’t want this marriage, you sure invested your time toward it," he said evenly, eyes narrowed thoughtfully. He’d never done the same for her, never even thought to try.

Hinata’s expression softened further, though she shook her head slightly, eyes holding gentle remorse. "Don't give me too much credit," she whispered quietly. "I stopped after a while."

Sasuke paused at her admission, understanding exactly why she had stopped. It wasn’t hard to guess. He had made things unbearable. She’d likely grown to despise him so deeply that anything associated with him felt tainted. He couldn’t blame her for pulling back, and he didn’t dare press further. He’d caused enough damage.

In silence, they reached the reserved table. Hinata gestured to the carefully stacked files, her eyes warm and reassuring.

Sasuke took a seat quietly, gaze falling on the dusty, faded scrolls and records before him. He reached for the first one, carefully opening it. His breath hitched slightly when he saw the name inscribed at the top, his mother’s maiden name.

The "Fujimoto Clan."

He stared, absorbing every word, every stroke of the kanji. As he read, something unfamiliar tightened deep in his chest.

The scroll spoke of a once-prominent clan known for their perceptiveness and diplomatic skill—mediators often called upon to ease tensions between feuding clans and maintain stability in volatile regions. Sasuke's brow furrowed subtly as he read, taking in the information with quiet intensity. It made sense. His mother had always possessed a calm clarity, a way of defusing conflict without raising her voice. The way she’d spoken to his father, to Itachi, even to him, when he was at his most stubborn, was never forceful, but it always reached them.

The memory of her standing between him and Itachi after a particularly heated sparring session drifted to the surface, her voice calm, measured, yet firm. She’d never tried to dominate the room and yet, everyone listened when she spoke.

A knot pulled tight in his chest.

He should’ve asked her more. About herself. About her past. Not just what she made for dinner or if she’d washed his training uniform. He’d taken all of it for granted.

His eyes lowered slightly, the words on the page blurring for a moment. Hinata quietly took a seat beside him, staying silent as he continued reading.

He glanced over at Hinata, who was gently sifting through another archive, focused intently. Something softened within him again. She had done this, this quiet, thoughtful act, because she understood, without being told, how important it could be for him. She had known better than he had.

Quietly, he exhaled, his voice coming out slightly rougher than intended. "Thank you for bringing me here," he murmured quietly.

Hinata’s gaze shifted to him gently, eyes widening briefly before her expression softened warmly. She smiled softly, nodding slightly.

"You’re welcome, Sasuke-kun."

He felt the corners of his lips tilt upwards slightly, just briefly, as he returned his attention to the records before him.

Carefully, he turned another page, silently determined to uncover more about the quiet, gentle clan that had helped shape the woman his mother was. Perhaps, through learning about them, he'd finally start to understand something about himself as well.

x-x-x-x

Hinata glanced quietly up at Sasuke, carefully taking in the subtle softness of his expression. Throughout the day, she’d quietly watched the tension in his jaw gradually fade, the usual sharpness in his gaze easing gently. The realization that he’d genuinely enjoyed himself filled her chest with a shy warmth. She couldn’t help but feel pleased. After all, she’d worried he might find her choices dull or overwhelming.

Thankfully, that didn’t seem to be the case. Sasuke looked content. Relaxed. He never outright expressed it, of course, she knew, but the quiet ease in his steps, the casual way he allowed her to lead, spoke volumes more clearly than his voice ever would.

As they continued their walk toward home, Hinata paused slightly when she noticed the street ahead bustling with people. Lanterns hung brightly, gentle music filling the air, booths scattered along the pathways. Couples and families gathered closely, cheerful voices blending into a soft hum of excitement. Her eyes widened as she recognized it immediately. The couples’ event, the one Sasuke had mentioned briefly a few days earlier.

Quickly glancing up at him, Hinata smiled apologetically, cheeks tinging pink. "Oh! Sasuke-kun, it looks like we accidentally walked into that event you mentioned before," she murmured softly. "We can take another route home. It ends tomorrow, so it shouldn’t be crowded much longer."

Sasuke narrowed his eyes slightly at the crowded street, clearly displeased by the loud voices and close proximity of strangers. He simply grunted, motioning with his head for her to lead another way. "I hate crowded places," he muttered, voice low with mild annoyance.

Hinata gave a small smile, nodding gently as she guided them onto another quieter road. It was still busy, but far less congested than the previous path. She quietly glanced around, relaxing her shoulders as the loud chatter faded away, replaced by softer murmurs and distant laughter.

She kept walking in quiet contentment, mind gently drifting, when suddenly Sasuke’s voice pulled her back.

"Hinata," he murmured quietly, gaze fixed ahead, his voice casual, "when you were researching the Uchiha clan, what did you learn?"

She blinked, momentarily surprised. Sasuke rarely ever asked direct questions like this, especially concerning personal things. Her surprise quickly gave way to curiosity. "Is there something particular you want to know about, or just anything in general?" she asked softly, carefully gauging his reaction.

Sasuke glanced down at her briefly, his lips subtly curling upward in a quiet smirk. "Just tell me anything," he murmured with faint amusement. His low chuckle sent an unexpected warmth through her chest, making her struggle to suppress a smile.

Sasuke truly had changed since the start of their marriage. He smiled more, rarely and subtly, but more genuinely than before. He trusted her enough to reveal pieces of himself she doubted he allowed anyone else to see. It meant something to her.

Hinata nodded thoughtfully, gently considering what she’d learned before answering softly, "Well…one interesting thing I learned is that the Uchiha clan originally specialized in fire jutsu not simply for battle, but to help maintain and protect crops during colder seasons. They used controlled flames to keep plants safe from frost. Their affinity for fire was as much a nurturing tradition as it was a combative one."

Sasuke glanced sharply at her, eyebrows raising slightly in mild surprise. He didn’t speak, but his expression showed quiet interest, clearly impressed, although he'd never openly admit it. Hinata felt quietly pleased with herself, happy she’d chosen a fact that had managed to surprise even him.

As they approached their house, Sasuke casually cleared his throat. "I'm curious about this 'surprise' gift you refuse to mention," he murmured, voice low and smooth. He glanced at her from the corner of his eye, expression mildly suspicious yet intrigued. "Can't I get a clue or something?"

Hinata shook her head gently, smiling shyly. "No," she said softly but firmly. "You’ll just have to be patient."

Inside, though, she was a bundle of nerves. She’d chosen carefully, thoughtfully, wanting desperately to get it right, but even still, uncertainty lingered quietly within her heart. She could only hope her efforts would be something Sasuke would truly enjoy.

Sasuke sighed, feigning mild annoyance. "I’m not patient," he muttered quietly, his dark eyes narrowing slightly. "You’re enjoying this, aren’t you?"

Hinata’s lips twitched into a teasing smile before she could stop herself. "Maybe just a little," she whispered, gaze dancing playfully.

Sasuke raised an eyebrow, clearly entertained by her teasing boldness. "Be careful. You know I could just read your mind with my Sharingan if I really wanted."

Hinata blinked, momentarily startled, then gently laughed. "You wouldn’t do that," she said softly, looking up at him boldly. "You’re too honorable to cheat, Sasuke-kun."

His eyes widened briefly, clearly stunned by her unexpected comeback. He quickly turned away, hiding his face from her. Hinata’s lips curled quietly into an amused smile, pleased she had managed to surprise him.

When they finally reached their home, Sasuke moved forward abruptly, grabbing the door handle and pulling it open harshly. He stepped aside quickly, head turned away so she couldn’t see his face.

"Go inside," he muttered gruffly, clearly annoyed or perhaps embarrassed, his voice tight. "I’ll sit out on the porch until you’re done making the soba."

Hinata stared at him quietly, confusion flickering briefly within her. Sasuke’s reaction was oddly abrupt—even strange. Yet somehow, instead of troubling her, his odd behavior caused warmth to flood her cheeks, pulse quickening slightly.

Why did she suddenly feel flustered too?

She shook herself softly, nodding gently. "Alright," she murmured quietly, shyly brushing hair from her eyes. "I’ll start on it right away. It shouldn’t take too long."

He didn’t respond, merely grunted quietly, still refusing to look at her as he turned toward the porch, leaving her staring softly at his retreating back.

As she moved quietly toward the kitchen, Hinata’s chest fluttered with quiet uncertainty and warmth. She didn’t fully understand Sasuke’s odd reaction, but oddly enough, she found herself looking forward to the rest of the evening even more.

Hinata quietly stepped into the kitchen, taking a gentle breath to calm the fluttering in her chest as she began preparing the soba. She gathered the ingredients methodically, a gentle focus guiding her movements. It was a simple dish, yet one she knew Sasuke appreciated.

She hummed softly to herself as her hands moved gently, rhythmically, carefully slicing the scallions and boiling water for the noodles. Her thoughts drifted slowly, comfortably, thinking about how the night would unfold. Sitting quietly beneath the stars, sipping tea and eating soba, it would be peaceful. Simple. Quietly meaningful.

A warm sensation flickered within her chest as she remembered the night they’d cloud gazed together, lying quietly side by side, simply existing in comfortable silence. It was just one small moment in time, yet she clearly recalled how something subtle had shifted between them then. Sasuke had become slightly less guarded that night, allowing tiny glimpses of himself that she'd never seen before. It had marked the faintest turning point, a tiny spark that gently ignited the change they both eventually felt.

Hinata paused briefly, hands slowing momentarily as she stared down at the noodles cooking quietly in the pot. She realized suddenly that she hadn’t thought much about Kakashi at all that day. She'd been so consumed by her plans, so focused on Sasuke’s reactions and emotions, that thoughts of the silver-haired man had faded quietly into the background.

But as soon as she acknowledged that, the image of Kakashi immediately rose back to the surface of her mind. His quiet, knowing gaze, the subtle regret she’d glimpsed in his expression recently, she bit her lip softly, chest tightening uncomfortably. A guilty twist of confusion stirred within her, and she shook her head sharply, gently pushing the unwanted thoughts aside.

No. She had to stop that. She had to bury those feelings, those gentle, fluttering thoughts she’d allowed herself to harbor quietly for too long. It wasn't right. Not fair to Sasuke, or herself, or Kakashi. But letting go was difficult, especially when the person in question had become someone she genuinely cared about, admired, and found comfort in. It would take time.

Carefully finishing up the soba, she quietly ladled portions into a serving bowl, careful not to spill. With gentle movements, she stepped outside onto the porch where Sasuke sat quietly, his gaze fixed thoughtfully toward the distant horizon. She placed the serving bowl carefully onto the small wooden table nestled between their two chairs.

Hinata straightened, smiling softly as Sasuke glanced up at her expectantly. "I’ll be right back," she murmured quietly. "I just need to grab some bowls, chopsticks, and the telescope."

She started to step away, but Sasuke abruptly stood up, looking down at her with a slightly exasperated expression. "You can’t carry all of that," he muttered calmly. "I'll get the bowls and chopsticks. You go get the telescope. I don't even know where you would even keep it."

Hinata opened her mouth gently to protest, prepared to insist that he shouldn't do anything at all, but Sasuke's eyebrow raised immediately, a clear, silent warning. She quickly closed her mouth again, deciding against arguing, knowing she'd lose anyway. He’d never let her carry everything by herself, even if it was his birthday.

Instead, she offered a gentle, shy smile and nodded softly. "Alright," she murmured warmly, quietly pleased by his willingness to help. "Thank you, Sasuke-kun."

He simply grunted quietly, turning toward the kitchen without another word, leaving her softly smiling as she walked slowly toward the storage room to retrieve the telescope.

Hinata moved carefully, thoughts returning briefly to their evening ahead. She genuinely hoped Sasuke would enjoy what she'd planned. Even as nervousness fluttered quietly in her chest, the warmth of anticipation lingered gently. Perhaps tonight beneath the stars would quietly strengthen the delicate bond slowly forming between them.

x-x-x-x

Hinata adjusted the telescope quietly, carefully angling the lens as her fingers gently twisted the knobs. She leaned down, peering through the eyepiece, lips parting slightly in awe as the stars above sharpened into vivid clarity.

They glittered like diamonds across a stretch of black silk, delicate and distant, but bright and steady. She could see the faint shimmer of a nebula, the subtle trail of a constellation she’d read about in books but never truly seen like this. It was breathtaking. Each star felt almost within reach, as though she could reach out and trace them with her fingertips.

But even in the quiet, she could feel his eyes on her. It was a strange weight, not uncomfortable, but noticeable. Sasuke had a way of watching her that made her nerves flutter. Not in fear, but in anticipation. She didn’t dare look back, focusing instead on the stars, until she finally pulled back with a quiet gasp.

“Sasuke-kun,” she said, the words breathless with quiet excitement, “you have to see this. The sky. It’s so pretty tonight!”

Only when she said it aloud did she realize just how eager her voice sounded, how bright her tone had been. She flushed immediately, lowering her eyes as embarrassment colored her cheeks. She turned slightly away from him.

But from the corner of her gaze, she saw him. Sasuke had leaned slightly forward, one hand braced casually on the side of the telescope, though he hadn’t looked through it yet.

He was looking at her.

His expression was unreadable at first. But there was a softness to it now, something that hadn’t been there before. Something different. The lines of his face were relaxed, his gaze steady, and the corner of his mouth, not quite a smile, but something close, had turned up, just slightly.

It wasn’t the look he gave her when she annoyed him. Or when she teased him. Or when she made him laugh. No, this was something else entirely. There was a stillness in him, a rare and unguarded peace. As if something inside him had settled.

Hinata held her breath, caught entirely in the way he looked at her. She didn’t know what it meant. Then, as if the moment had passed, Sasuke’s gaze shifted, and he leaned down to look through the telescope. Time moved forward again.

“You were right,” he murmured, his tone low, but not dismissive. There was a note of quiet appreciation in it. “It looks clearer than usual tonight.”

She smiled softly, stepping beside him as the cool evening breeze brushed her hair. “I cleaned the lens last night,” she said, gently. “And the air's drier today. It makes the stars easier to see.”

He only grunted in acknowledgment but lingered a second longer than she expected. When he stepped back, he gave her a look, smirking, and tilted his head toward the telescope. “Your turn.”

Hinata stepped forward once more, gazing through the lens as Sasuke picked up his bowl of soba. They began rotating turns, one watching the stars while the other ate, then switching places wordlessly.

“What do you see now?” he asked as he finished another bite.

“A faint crescent moon and a star just beside it. I think it might be Aldebaran,” she said thoughtfully, squinting slightly.

Sasuke raised an eyebrow. “That sounds made up.”

She laughed. “It’s not,” she said through her smile, standing up so he could look again. “It’s part of the Taurus constellation.”

Sasuke muttered, “Hn,” as he peered through. “Still sounds made up.”

Hinata shook her head fondly and sat beside him, picking up her own bowl of soba. For a while, they ate in silence. Every so often, they’d exchange small comments, or point out something curious in the stars. It was peaceful. Quiet. Warm. And as she glanced over at Sasuke once more, his expression relaxed, his posture easy, Hinata felt it again. That tiny flutter in her chest. That small, undeniable shift in something between them.

It felt like starlight.

Hinata quietly set aside her empty bowl, watching as Sasuke finished his soba. Silence had settled comfortably between them, a tranquil quietness filled only by distant crickets and the whispering breeze rustling softly through the trees. It was peaceful, and the weight of the day’s quiet joy warmed her chest.

She carefully drew a breath and turned slightly toward him. "Sasuke-kun," she murmured gently, drawing his dark eyes to hers. "About your surprise. I thought…you could choose where we have it. We could stay out here in front, inside the house, or head to the backyard."

His eyebrows knitted slightly in confusion, but he answered without hesitation. "Backyard is fine."

Hinata nodded, feeling a nervous flutter rising in her chest as they stood up, carrying the empty bowls quietly back into the kitchen. Sasuke followed silently behind her as they crossed through the dimly lit house toward the backyard entrance. Her heart was beginning to race, palms slightly damp, as the reality of what she was about to offer him began to truly sink in.

She slid open the back door gently, stepping quietly onto the porch with Sasuke at her side. Outside, the cool night air brushed softly against her cheeks, soothing yet doing little to calm the nervous tremors inside.

Sasuke turned, facing her with a raised eyebrow, curiosity and mild skepticism coloring his gaze. "So, what's this surprise you’ve been hiding all day? You didn’t secretly buy me a puppy, did you?" he teased dryly, attempting to ease the subtle tension he could likely sense in her.

Hinata took a deep breath, her expression serious, anxiousness evident in her gaze. "Sasuke-kun, before I tell you, if it upsets you at all, please be honest and upfront with me. I just wanted…I wanted to do something meaningful for you. But if it’s too much, I’ll understand."

His smirk immediately faded, replaced with quiet seriousness, noticing her apprehension. "Okay," he said slowly, carefully, now watching her intently.

She gathered her courage, looking up to meet his eyes. "I…I found a way to bring your family back to you. Temporarily, of course. Just to speak with them, see them again," she whispered softly, heart tightening. "But I can only maintain it for about ten minutes."

The silence stretched tightly between them. Sasuke's expression was unreadable, guarded, yet his eyes widened in stunned disbelief. His voice finally broke the tense quietness. "What…what kind of jutsu is this?"

"It’s called Embracing Light," Hinata explained softly, voice steady but gentle. "It combines Yin Release with Gentle Fist chakra. It allows the manifestation of loved ones’ consciousness temporarily through pure chakra. But it’s very draining, and the chakra has to be pure, precise, and calm. I just recently discovered it."

Sasuke stared at her for a long moment, clearly overwhelmed by the weight of what she was offering. His voice was low, cautious, almost reverent when he finally spoke. "Can I…touch them? Will they feel real?"

Hinata nodded slowly, her eyes gentle, reassuring. "Yes. Their forms will be tangible. You'll feel their warmth, see their expressions. It'll feel real, but it's only temporary."

He inhaled sharply, processing silently. "Will it hurt you?" he asked, voice rough with restrained emotion. "Or tire you too much?"

Hinata shook her head gently, offering a reassuring smile. "I'll be fine, Sasuke-kun. Just a little tired afterward, nothing serious."

Sasuke remained quiet for a long moment, shadows of uncertainty and nervousness evident within his dark eyes, yet a fragile yearning flickered as well. When he finally spoke again, his voice was quiet, raw with honest vulnerability. "I…I want this. I want to see them again."

Hinata nodded, heart aching with tender understanding as she began forming the hand seals, her fingers moving fluidly, elegantly, chakra flowing softly from her heart, warming her chest, radiating gently outward. It was an unfamiliar sensation, intense, powerful, yet gentle, like holding sunlight within her palms.

Her hands slowed, completing the final seal. Light bloomed softly, beautifully, illuminating their backyard in quiet brilliance. Hinata's breath hitched, pulse quickening as three figures emerged gradually, their forms solidifying gently from the gentle glow.

Mikoto stood in quiet confusion, graceful and lovely. Fugaku’s brows furrowed sternly, protective and cautious. And Itachi, expression mild yet intense, eyes flickering with immediate awareness.

For a moment, all three looked around, startled, until their eyes landed simultaneously on Sasuke.

Hinata's heart nearly stopped at the raw emotion washing over Sasuke’s face, shock, disbelief, and pure, overwhelming longing. He took a shaky step forward, voice cracking quietly, hesitant. "Mother…Father…Itachi…"

Hinata’s breath caught softly in her throat as Mikoto took a slow, hesitant step forward, her dark eyes wide with disbelief. The gentle lines of Mikoto’s face trembled, tears slipping silently down her cheeks as her gaze settled completely upon Sasuke. Hinata’s heart clenched, a tight knot forming at the base of her throat, the raw tenderness of the moment almost too powerful to witness.

“Sasuke…?” Mikoto’s voice wavered, gentle yet heavy with fragile emotion. She slowly reached one hand up, as if afraid the man in front of her would disappear should she move too quickly. “Is that really you? My little boy?”

The shift in Sasuke’s demeanor was immediate. Hinata saw it clearly in the way his carefully guarded posture faltered, the always-present walls suddenly crumbling to reveal something softer, more vulnerable beneath. Without hesitation, he stepped forward, pulling his mother tightly into his arms, his shoulders trembling with silent, suppressed emotion.

Hinata’s chest tightened further, warmth gathering at the corners of her eyes. Sasuke’s expression was one she’d never seen before—so open, so heartbreakingly tender, as he quietly embraced his mother.

“Mother,” Sasuke murmured, voice thick and strained, muffled by his mother’s shoulder. “I missed you.”

Mikoto gently cupped Sasuke’s cheeks, her eyes searching his face with loving awe, her thumbs brushing tenderly against his skin. “Sasuke… your eyes have changed so much,” she whispered softly. “You’ve endured a great deal of pain, haven’t you? Yet you came through so strong. I’m so proud of you, my precious son.”

Hinata felt warmth spread softly through her chest at Mikoto’s tender words. She blinked gently, fighting back the tears that blurred her vision, not wanting to miss even a single second of this quiet reunion she’d created for him.

Then, Hinata’s gaze shifted carefully to Fugaku, who had been standing silently nearby, his stern, composed expression slowly revealing a quiet pride, his dark eyes glistening. He stepped forward carefully, placing one firm hand on Sasuke’s shoulder.

“You survived, Sasuke,” Fugaku said quietly, his voice deep and resonant, yet softer than Hinata had expected. “Through everything that’s happened, you still stand strong. As your father, I couldn’t be more proud of the man you’ve become.”

Hinata felt her heart ache gently, quietly touched by Fugaku’s words. She could only imagine how much those words meant to Sasuke, knowing how desperately he must have longed to hear them. Sasuke was still and silent, visibly absorbing the weight of his father’s praise, shoulders subtly shaking.

Slowly, Sasuke’s eyes found Itachi, and Hinata felt the atmosphere shift, filling with something both bittersweet and profoundly heavy. It was as if all the history, all the pain, and all the love that bound those two brothers swirled quietly around them, pulling them carefully toward each other.

Itachi gave Sasuke a soft, apologetic smile, his gentle eyes tinged with an unspoken sorrow. He stepped forward carefully, lifting one hand toward his brother, voice gentle and warm.

“You’ve become so strong, Sasuke,” Itachi said softly, affectionately. “You lived your life bravely. I always knew you would.”

Sasuke’s jaw tightened slightly, his eyes shimmering faintly, brimming with too many emotions at once. Hinata watched quietly, her throat aching painfully at the vulnerability Sasuke allowed himself to show, his eyes betraying a deep-rooted longing for this moment—a reunion that should have never been needed. Her chest squeezed sharply at how deeply moved he seemed, and a part of her wished fiercely that she could grant him more than ten short minutes with them.

She watched, her heart swelling gently, as Sasuke stepped forward to meet his brother halfway. Their embrace was quiet, deep, and fiercely emotional. Sasuke’s fingers tightened in his brother’s clothes, the silent gratitude and sorrow blending into one singular embrace.

“I wish you were still here,” Sasuke’s voice cracked faintly, strained with raw emotion.

Itachi gently pulled back, still holding Sasuke close, his forehead leaning gently against his younger brother’s. “I’ve always been with you, Sasuke,” he whispered quietly, affectionately. “And I always will be.”

Hinata’s vision blurred softly, her heart aching profoundly. A warm tear slipped gently down her cheek, overwhelmed by the gentle intimacy and quiet grief she felt emanating between the two brothers. This was a moment Sasuke needed, deserved—a gift she knew she could never fully understand the depth of, but was deeply grateful to have been able to give to him.

But Itachi’s eyes shifted slightly, catching sight of Hinata. Curiosity flickered quietly as he gently tilted his head. "Sasuke, who is this young woman?"

Sasuke turned to glance briefly at Hinata, expression quietly softening. "This is Hinata, my wife," he said gently.

Hinata flushed deeply under the intense stares of Sasuke’s family. Fugaku raised his eyebrows, mildly surprised. "A Hyuga, hm?"

Itachi quietly smiled, amused yet intrigued. "Interesting," he mused softly.

But Mikoto stepped forward, her smile warm and comforting. "Hinata-chan," she murmured kindly, "I sincerely hope my son has been treating you well?"

Hinata glanced briefly up at Sasuke, warmth filling her chest as she saw the tenderness behind his gaze. She smiled softly at Mikoto, nodding shyly. "He has, Mikoto-san. Sasuke-kun has been very good to me."

Fugaku turned toward Hinata with an appraising yet thoughtful gaze.

“Tell me, Hinata,” he began, voice calm and authoritative, “how long have you and Sasuke been married?”

Hinata felt her cheeks warm slightly under his sharp gaze, but she met his eyes respectfully. “A little over a year now, Fugaku-sama.”

Fugaku nodded slowly, considering. “Marriage into the Uchiha can be challenging, particularly for someone from the Hyuga clan. The expectations can be difficult to meet. Has my son been doing right by you?”

She glanced toward Sasuke, who stood a short distance away with Mikoto, speaking softly, tenderly. Her heart tightened gently seeing the peace within his dark eyes. “Sasuke-kun and I…we had a rough beginning,” she admitted honestly, softly, “but he’s changed so much. He's become a wonderful husband, and a good friend.”

Fugaku regarded her quietly, his usually stern expression softening ever so slightly with gentle approval. “My son has made mistakes in the past, and yet he's always found his own way back. I trust he's learned what truly matters in this life. I hope you both support each other.”

Hinata nodded warmly, touched by his words. “We will. I promise.”

Beside him, Itachi watched the interaction with calm amusement, a soft, knowing smile playing at the corners of his mouth. “Hinata-san,” he said quietly, his tone light, “what would you say is the hardest part about being married to my foolish little brother?”

Hinata blinked, a bit caught off guard. Her eyes flicked to Sasuke instantly, catching his sharp glance in return, his brow slightly furrowed, clearly suspicious of whatever Itachi was up to.

“U-um,” she stammered softly, cheeks warming under the weight of both their gazes, “well…Sasuke-kun can be a little stubborn sometimes. And a bit short-tempered.”

At that, Itachi chuckled quietly, the sound low and fond. “Ah. That sounds like the Sasuke I remember.”

Hinata let out a small, nervous laugh, rubbing her hands together in her lap. “But he’s also changed a lot. He’s trying, he really is. And underneath all of that, he’s considerate. Thoughtful, in ways that might not always be obvious.”

Itachi’s expression softened further, something quietly emotional stirring behind his calm gaze. He gave a small nod, then said with gentle warmth, “That makes me happy to hear, imouto.”

Hinata paused, the word catching her off guard. Her head tilted slightly, eyes widening. “I-imouto?” she echoed faintly.

Sasuke, seated nearby, visibly tensed. “Oii…” he muttered under his breath, not quite looking at either of them.

Itachi only smirked. “You’re Sasuke’s wife, aren’t you?” he said lightly, folding his arms as he looked between the two of them. “That makes you my little sister. I think it suits you.”

Hinata’s cheeks flushed bright red, her gaze flitting awkwardly toward Sasuke, whose jaw was tight, eyes flicking away like he didn’t want her to see the faint hue rising on his own face.

“T-thank you, Itachi-niisan,” she managed, flustered but quietly touched.

Sasuke muttered something under his breath that sounded suspiciously like a groan, prompting Itachi to chuckle again, clearly enjoying himself.

“You’re really trying to embarrass me before your time’s up, aren’t you?” Sasuke grumbled, shooting his brother a half-hearted glare.

Itachi shrugged, smile gentle and a little mischievous. “Isn’t that what older brothers are for?”

Hinata couldn’t help it, she giggled, covering her mouth with both hands. And though Sasuke scowled, he didn’t hide the quiet exhale that escaped him, almost like a laugh.

Nearby, Sasuke stood quietly before his mother, his expression gentle yet deeply emotional, almost childlike. Mikoto gently reached forward, placing her soft hand upon Sasuke's cheek, carefully tracing the matured lines of his face.

“You’ve grown up beautifully, Sasuke,” Mikoto murmured softly, her eyes misty with tears. “Even stronger and kinder than I imagined you'd become.”

Sasuke looked down slightly, voice trembling ever so softly. “I don’t know about that. I made many mistakes, mother. I'm not always proud of who I've become.”

Mikoto tilted her head, voice gentle yet firm, cupping his cheek softly, lovingly. “We all falter sometimes. But what matters is how you rise again. Looking at you now, the tenderness in your eyes, I can see your heart clearly. You've grown very strong, Sasuke, and your heart is so beautiful.”

Sasuke swallowed tightly, nodding quietly, eyes moist. “I miss you so much, Mother.”

Mikoto gently drew her son into a tight, warm embrace, gently stroking his hair as she murmured soothingly, “I'll continue to watch over you. Promise me you'll cherish your happiness now.”

Sasuke nodded gently, voice thick. “I will. I promise.”

Hinata felt the energy within her slowly draining away, her heart aching as she whispered regretfully, “Sasuke-kun…it’s almost time.”

Itachi turned thoughtfully toward Hinata, realization flickering gently in his dark eyes. "Was it you who brought us here?"

She nodded shyly, a gentle sadness flickering in her gaze as their farewell approached.

Itachi's eyes filled with warm gratitude. Slowly, he stepped forward, gently pressing his forehead affectionately to Sasuke’s once more. "I love you, Sasuke. Cherish this woman, she has given you a precious gift tonight. Allow yourself the happiness you deserve."

Sasuke trembled slightly, eyes tightly shut, absorbing his brother’s words deeply into his heart.

Itachi straightened gently, turning his kind gaze toward Hinata. "Please take care of him, Hinata. You’re exactly who he needs."

Fugaku placed a firm hand on Sasuke's shoulder, eyes quietly proud. "Continue making us proud, Sasuke. Take care of yourself and your wife."

"I will, Father," Sasuke murmured softly.

Mikoto gently kissed Sasuke’s forehead, whispering softly, "I love you, my precious boy. Please be happy."

Slowly, their forms began fading softly into gentle trails of glowing light. Hinata held the jutsu carefully, tears gently slipping down her cheeks, until finally their glowing silhouettes completely faded away.

In the quietness left behind, Hinata turned gently to Sasuke, her heart aching softly at the sight of quiet tears streaming slowly down his cheeks. He was staring intently at the empty space where his family had stood, raw gratitude and bittersweet joy shining gently in his eyes.

"Hinata…" he whispered roughly, thickly, voice shaking with emotion. He turned slowly toward her, eyes vulnerable and deeply sincere. "Thank you. For everything you've done for me today… for giving me this moment. You don’t know how much this means to me."

Warm tears blurred Hinata’s vision gently as she softly smiled at him, voice gentle, filled with warmth. "I'm just glad it made you happy, Sasuke-kun," she whispered tenderly. "That's all I wanted."

Sasuke slowly stepped forward, voice low and sincere, eyes filled with gentle warmth and tenderness. "It did, Hinata. More than you could ever know."

Hinata stood still, her fingers curled together at her waist, the warmth of Sasuke’s words echoing inside her chest. He hadn’t moved from where he stood, but something about the way he was looking at her felt closer. Like the distance that used to exist between them had quietly dissolved in the night air, leaving behind something unspoken.

She nodded gently, her voice soft. “I’m really glad you said yes. I was nervous. I didn’t know if it would be too much.”

Sasuke looked at her for a long moment. His eyes, still a little glassy, held the weight of something he didn’t say. Then he nodded once, slowly. “It was a lot, but in a good way.”

Hinata smiled faintly, her heart fluttering. The wind brushed her bangs back as she glanced toward the place where his family had stood only moments ago. That space was empty now, but the warmth lingered.

“I’ve never seen you like that,” she said quietly, watching the stars now. “With your mother…you looked so at peace.”

Sasuke was quiet for a moment, then said, “It felt like I was seven years old again. Like I could breathe without thinking.”

Hinata’s eyes stung again, but she blinked quickly, swallowing down the lump in her throat. “She loved you a lot. I could see it.”

“She did,” he said. Then added, after a beat, “All three of them did.”

There was another silence, this one not heavy, but thoughtful. It stretched between them as the stars twinkled above, and the night carried the scent of warm soba and distant lilacs.

“Thank you for today,” he said again, quieter this time. Not just polite. Sincere. “I know I told you I didn’t want anything. But this…You gave me more than I thought I wanted.”

Hinata’s face grew warm. She stared at her sandals for a moment, then glanced back up. “I just wanted to give you something real,” she whispered. “Something that would mean something.”

Sasuke let out a quiet breath, not quite a sigh, not quite anything. He stepped closer, not too close, but close enough that his presence felt warm again. Familiar.

“You did.”

Her heart skipped.

They both stood there for a while longer, saying nothing, just watching the stars, the air between them charged with something that wasn’t quite defined. Comfort, maybe. Safety. Or the early traces of something blooming quietly.

Eventually, Sasuke murmured, “We should probably go in.”

Hinata nodded, though part of her wanted to stay just a little longer. “I’ll clean up the dishes.”

“I’ll help,” Sasuke said. Then added before she could argue, “Don’t try to stop me.”

Hinata gave a soft, amused smile and turned toward the door. Sasuke followed her in, steps quiet, but close.

x-x-x-x

Next day…

Sasuke strolled leisurely through the village, still feeling the pleasant ache in his muscles from his earlier training. The sun shone mildly overhead, warming the pavement beneath his sandals. It was strange how vividly he recalled yesterday, how deeply it had settled into him, lingering, leaving traces of a soft, unfamiliar warmth that he didn't quite know how to handle yet.

But he was content. Truly content. It wasn't a feeling he'd been used to experiencing, he hardly even recognized it at first. It was foreign and subtle, yet unmistakably there. For the first time in a long while, Sasuke felt unburdened. Yesterday had been perfect, quiet and private, exactly the kind of day he didn't even realize he'd wanted.

As he turned the corner onto a quieter road, he paused, slightly startled at the sight of Hinata just a few steps ahead. She had stopped too, eyes widening slightly in mild surprise, her soft hair falling loosely over her shoulders, framing her flushed cheeks. In her arms, she clutched a bag filled with groceries, ripe tomatoes gleaming invitingly from the top.

"Groceries?" Sasuke asked, nodding toward the bag casually.

Hinata smiled softly, nodding. "Yes. I was just about to head home and drop them off."

"Ah." He hesitated, clearing his throat slightly. "We're still meeting later at your family’s compound, right?"

Hinata nodded quickly, "Yes. The dinner will be tonight. Is that still okay?"

Sasuke shrugged nonchalantly, though inwardly he was less than thrilled at the prospect. "It’s fine."

There was a silence then, but Sasuke noticed the way her eyes shifted nervously, clearly contemplating something else she wished to say. Slightly impatient, he prompted, "Spit it out already. There’s something else."

Hinata's cheeks darkened faintly, eyes averted to the ground as she spoke softly. "I ran into Kakashi earlier. He asked if we could have lunch at the Crescent Lily Cafe today. I agreed."

Sasuke kept his face carefully neutral. "What time?"

Hinata hesitated. "Around noon."

He nodded slowly. "Hn. Alright."

A look of faint relief crossed Hinata's face, her shoulders relaxing slightly. "What are you doing now?"

"Naruto called for me," Sasuke said with mild irritation.

Hinata tilted her head slightly, concern flickering across her gentle features. "Is everything alright?"

He brushed off her worry with a dismissive wave. "It’s nothing important. Don’t worry about it."

She smiled faintly, nodding. "Then I'll see you later?"

He hummed quietly, watching her turn and walk away until she vanished from sight around the bend. Shaking his head slightly, Sasuke stuffed his hands into his pockets and continued towards the Hokage tower, his mood dampened slightly by the upcoming encounter with Naruto.

Upon arriving at the Hokage tower, Sasuke ascended the staircase, his gaze set firmly ahead, until Sai’s familiar form stepped into his line of sight. He paused, jaw tightening instinctively at the memory of Sai's careless disrespect toward Hinata.

Sai halted as well, eyeing him cautiously. "Sasuke. I wanted to apologize for my rude comments toward your wife. I’ve already apologized to Hinata as well. It was never my intention to hurt anyone."

Sasuke clenched his jaw again, clearly irritated. "Fine," he managed through gritted teeth, brushing past Sai without giving the other man another glance.

When he reached Naruto’s office door, he knocked briefly. Naruto’s voice carried through the door, somewhat muffled, "Come in."

The moment Sasuke stepped into the office, his eyes landed on towering stacks of paper surrounding Naruto. The blonde’s usually cheerful face looked overwhelmed and exhausted, though he forced a tired smile at Sasuke's entrance.

"You wanted me?" Sasuke asked bluntly, getting straight to the point.

Naruto sighed deeply, running a hand through his messy blond hair. "Yeah. I have a mission for you."

Sasuke frowned slightly. "Explain."

Naruto straightened, turning serious. "There have been some concerning reports about suspicious movements near the northern border. I need someone skilled to investigate and clear things up. It could take around two to three weeks, maybe even a month, depending."

Sasuke's eyebrow rose slightly. "Why would something like this take so long?"

Naruto leaned back, shrugging lightly. "You need time for reconnaissance, gathering information discreetly, tracking down the issue, possibly eliminating threats, these things can’t be rushed, Sasuke."

Naruto paused, eyes narrowing curiously. "Why do you care, anyway? You never usually question missions like this."

Sasuke glared. "So what if I asked?"

Naruto’s brows drew together thoughtfully before a knowing grin slowly formed. "You and Hinata have really been getting along lately, huh? That's why you're hesitant."

Sasuke didn't answer, but Naruto chuckled knowingly. "You know, I didn’t forget yesterday was your birthday. I wanted to take you out for ramen or something, but I saw you with Hinata. You both looked busy."

Sasuke hesitated for a brief moment, thrown off by the unexpected question. Naruto was watching him curiously, blue eyes sharp and filled with genuine interest. Sasuke considered brushing it off, but something in Naruto’s expression made him sigh in reluctant honesty.

"It was…nice," he finally admitted, voice low. His mind drifted back to the previous day—the soft, gentle way Hinata had looked at him, the subtle yet careful effort she had put into making his birthday meaningful. He recalled the deep ache in his chest when he saw his mother again—the tender way Mikoto had cupped his face, warmth and love flowing from her fingertips as she held his cheeks, and how his heart twisted sharply at hearing Fugaku's calm voice praising him. It had shaken him, he had felt suddenly young again, but also comforted.

Seeing Itachi again, standing there as if nothing had ever happened, his older brother smiling in a way Sasuke hadn't seen in years, had felt bittersweet—painful, but good. That brief reunion had healed something inside him he hadn't even realized was broken. He wouldn't forget it.

As the memories surfaced, Sasuke felt an unfamiliar warmth rising in his chest. His cheeks burned slightly when he caught Naruto’s knowing smile. Sasuke frowned, growing uncomfortable with how closely Naruto was watching him.

"What?" Sasuke snapped irritably, shifting his gaze away and trying to maintain his composure, but the faint red flush spreading across his face betrayed him.

Naruto merely smiled wider, nodding slowly as if confirming some private thought. "Nothing at all," Naruto said innocently, leaning back into his chair. "I'm just glad you had a good day."

Sasuke narrowed his eyes suspiciously, shifting on his feet. The heat on his face deepened, though he still didn't fully understand why Naruto was grinning at him like he’d won some secret prize. Feeling flustered and annoyed, he quickly attempted to steer the conversation back to safer grounds. "Anyway," he muttered abruptly, clearing his throat awkwardly, "can we talk about this mission now? Is there anyone else who can handle it?"

Naruto chuckled quietly, shaking his head with quiet amusement, clearly pleased to see Sasuke so thrown off balance. After a lingering look, Naruto finally nodded, expression becoming serious once more. "Right, the mission," he agreed firmly, attention shifting back to the matter at hand.

Naruto shook his head regretfully. "Sorry. It has to be you. It’s a solo mission. I know that's your preference anyway."

Sasuke exhaled roughly. "Fine. I'll take the mission."

Naruto nodded gratefully. "Thanks, Sasuke. You leave tomorrow morning."

Sasuke exited the office without another word, Naruto's frustrated groans about paperwork fading as he walked away.

Passing by a wall clock, he noticed it was approaching noon, around the time Hinata was meeting Kakashi. Hesitating briefly, curiosity tugged at his thoughts, prompting him to walk through the village toward the Crescent Lily Cafe.

x-x-x-x

Sasuke found himself quietly standing across the street, hidden partly in the shadows. His narrowed gaze landed immediately on Hinata and Kakashi, sitting together in the secluded area outside the cafe. Kakashi leaned casually, comfortably toward Hinata, his body language relaxed and open, facing her directly. From Sasuke’s viewpoint, the atmosphere between them appeared disturbingly intimate.

He watched silently as Kakashi reached forward gently, caressing Hinata's cheek with slow familiarity, thumb tracing tenderly over her flushed skin. Hinata looked startled, muttering apologies and that she needed to go to the bathroom. Immediately she stood and rushed inside the cafe, clearly embarrassed.

Seeing his chance, Sasuke crossed the street quickly. He quietly pulled out Hinata's vacated seat, settling himself there casually. Kakashi looked up lazily, clearly expecting Hinata’s return, only for surprise to flicker visibly across his eyes.

"Sasuke," he greeted cautiously. "Hinata just stepped inside, you missed her—"

"I know exactly where she is," Sasuke interrupted flatly, voice low, dangerously calm.

Kakashi paused, watching him warily. Without another word, Sasuke reached forward and grabbed Kakashi’s hand from the table, the very hand that had touched Hinata. Before Kakashi could even attempt to react, Sasuke’s fingers clamped down, tightening brutally. He felt the first subtle give, followed by the harsh, sharp cracks as bones audibly splintered beneath his ruthless grasp.

"Sasuke—!" Kakashi hissed sharply through gritted teeth, the pain clear in his voice, eyes widening momentarily in shocked disbelief at the younger man's blatant aggression. Despite the agony, Kakashi managed to smirk bitterly up at Sasuke, dark eyes narrowing sharply in defiance.

Sasuke leaned forward slowly, menacingly, voice dropping dangerously low as his gaze met Kakashi’s with a deadly calm that belied the violence in his grip. "Touch my wife again," he whispered chillingly, "and next time I won't stop at your hand. I'll break every damn bone in your body and leave you crippled in the middle of this street."

"You know, Sasuke," Kakashi drawled tightly through the pain, voice low and strained. "For someone who claims you're not jealous, you sure have a strange way of showing it."

Sasuke's eyes flared dangerously at the accusation, irritation instantly sparking hotly in his chest. He tightened his hold, letting his chakra flare intensely, heat spreading through his palm as he burned Kakashi’s skin beneath his grip. Kakashi inhaled sharply, wincing further, eyes widening slightly in surprise at Sasuke’s burning chakra.

"I'm not jealous," Sasuke growled harshly, voice low and lethal, eyes narrowed in irritation. The very suggestion grated deeply against his nerves. "Jealousy would imply romantic feelings, and I have none of those for Hinata."

Kakashi's eyes narrowed further, pain and anger swirling together. "Really?" he challenged skeptically, grimacing as another wave of scorching heat shot through his hand. "Breaking bones, burning my hand, this isn't how someone who is 'just friends' reacts. If I didn't know any better," Kakashi hissed sharply, eyes piercing into Sasuke’s with bitter accusation, "I'd say this looks exactly like jealousy."

Sasuke narrowed his eyes, releasing Kakashi’s hand abruptly, letting it drop back to the table, red and swollen. “I’m not jealous,” he said flatly. “Just making it clear.”

Kakashi gritted his teeth, wincing, but didn’t pull back. His eyes studied Sasuke carefully, tone dry despite the discomfort. “Could’ve fooled me.”

Sasuke didn’t respond to that. He let go, dropping Kakashi’s hand back onto the table, now red and faintly scorched from the burn. His gaze lingered a moment longer, jaw set, but his expression unreadable.

Eventually, the tension broke, not with a conclusion, but with exhaustion. Neither one of them was going to change the other's mind, and they both knew it.

Sasuke glanced down at Kakashi’s damaged hand once more, smirking faintly. “Sorry about the hand,” he said sarcastically, “You should probably get that fixed.”

And without another word, he turned sharply on his heel, walking off without looking back.

x-x-x-x

Hinata stepped out of the small café bathroom, her fingers trembling slightly, still damp from washing. Her heart hadn't slowed yet; it was still pounding heavily, loudly in her chest, as she vividly recalled the sensation of Kakashi's thumb gently sliding along her cheek.

“I notice loneliness when I’m not around you.”

His words had come so effortlessly—soft and genuine, without any embellishments or hesitation. Yet those simple words had wrapped around her heart, squeezing gently in a way that felt warm, but unsettlingly dangerous. For a split second, she'd almost leaned into the touch, almost allowed herself to lose control, until reality and her instincts had kicked in sharply. Her mind had abruptly snapped her back to her senses, reminding her of where she was, who she was, and whom she was with.

That's why she'd hastily stood, flustered, her cheeks hot as she'd murmured something hurried about needing to use the restroom. She had practically bolted away, needing the distance, needing a moment to gather herself, and to settle her racing heart.

Coward, she thought, biting softly at her lower lip. But she had desperately needed that space, to breathe, to steady herself, and to remember the fragile line she was balancing upon.

As she walked back toward their table, she noticed something strange in Kakashi’s expression, his mouth behind his mask was curved in the usual half-smile, but his brow was faintly furrowed, and his eyes had a sort of tightness around them. Then she saw it: his hand cradled loosely in his lap, fingers curled stiffly, his posture just slightly more guarded than before.

Her breath caught. “Kakashi?” she asked gently, concern already threading her voice. “Are you alright?”

He looked up quickly, the smile still on his face but slightly off-center now. “Yeah,” he said, too quickly. “Just fine.”

But when her eyes dropped to his hand, she stopped walking. Her feet rooted. That wasn’t fine. Her chest squeezed, and before he could even try to wave it off, she stepped forward and took his hand in both of hers.

“Kakashi,” she murmured, frowning deeply. “What happened?”

He chuckled, low and sheepish. “Nothing to worry about.”

She didn’t believe that for a second. His hand was swollen, the skin reddened, the muscles slightly strained. Something had happened.

Without saying anything else, she gently pulled his hand closer and began gathering chakra to her palm. The healing glow softly lit their corner of the table, a quiet blue radiance between them. Her chakra was calm, steady, and her fingers moved in a rhythm that had become second nature to her over the years.

She didn’t ask again.

But a small, knowing part of her stirred in her chest. Sasuke had been on her mind the moment she stepped out of the bathroom. It wouldn’t be hard to guess. She said nothing, though.

When she glanced up at Kakashi, his gaze was heavy, his dark eye fixed on her face, not moving, as if watching something he didn’t want to forget.

He whispered her name. “Hinata.”

Her fingers paused just slightly in their movement. She met his gaze. “Yes?”

He hesitated, lips parting. But then he exhaled softly and shook his head. “It’s nothing.”

She blinked once. Maybe it was better not to ask.

Kakashi sat back a little, a weak smile tugging at his mouth. “At least you didn’t charge me for the medical treatment. I’m not sure my wallet could take another hit this week.”

Hinata couldn’t help it, her mouth tugged up in a small laugh. “I’ll just add it to your tab,” she teased gently, though her eyes didn’t leave his face. There was still something behind his smile. Something carefully tucked away.

“You’re sure you’re alright?” she asked again, quieter now.

Kakashi turned his hand gently in hers, palm open, healed now. “I’m fine,” he said again, a little more firmly this time. “Really.”

But he still wouldn’t tell her what happened.

And that quiet part inside her, the part that had learned to trust instincts sharpened through experience—was already telling her the answer.

She didn’t push.

Instead, she gently pulled her hands away, folded them in her lap, and glanced out toward the street, her heart still treading careful steps between two very different men.

Hinata’s breath hitched softly in her chest when she felt Kakashi’s hand gently squeeze hers. She looked up, meeting his gaze quietly. There was something searching there, something quiet yet careful, like he was navigating a complicated path within himself. He exhaled slowly, thumb gently brushing across the top of her hand once before finally speaking.

“You know,” he began quietly, a gentle smile in place but with a seriousness lingering beneath. “Maybe…we could make our training a more regular thing. Sparring together, working on our skills. It’d be more productive for us both.”

Hinata blinked, tilting her head slightly. Her brows furrowed softly, confused. “Productive?” she echoed quietly, with gentle confusion in her tone. She shifted her gaze away, a small, uncertain smile playing at her lips. “Going to the café, that’s not productive enough anymore?”

Kakashi sighed, softly but audibly. His grip on her hand loosened just a fraction, his eyes dropping to the table for a brief moment before lifting again to meet hers. Hinata could see it clearly, the gentle hesitation in his expression, the quiet battle he seemed to be having within himself. It puzzled her, but more than anything, she could sense a hidden truth he wasn’t revealing, something he was quietly holding back from her.

“It’s not exactly that,” he murmured carefully, the corners of his eyes crinkling slightly in a faint smile. “It’s just—well, I’ve gotten a bit rusty, you know? I have to keep my old bones active somehow. Sparring with you last time was quite fun. I found myself looking forward to it again. It feels right.”

Hinata’s eyes lingered carefully on his face, trying to decipher the subtle shifts in his expression. Kakashi always had a way of disguising his true feelings behind humor and easy smiles, but right now, she could feel something different, an intentional attempt to pull back, to create a measured distance.

She wondered if maybe he was struggling just as much as she was. She didn’t fully understand why he felt this need to step back, but perhaps it was for the best. Perhaps whatever unspoken feelings had started to grow between them had become too heavy, too complicated.

Quietly, she nodded in understanding, gently pulling her hand back, her fingertips lightly brushing the table. “If that’s what you want,” she said softly, gaze softening, understanding filling her tone. “Then it’s fine, Kakashi.”

He watched her for a brief moment longer, a subtle, almost imperceptible flicker of regret softening his dark eyes, but then he nodded. “It is. I think it’s the right thing to do.”

She swallowed carefully, offering him a gentle, quiet smile. “Alright,” she murmured softly, “then…training it is.”

For now, it seemed they’d both quietly agreed to the boundaries being carefully redrawn, for their own sake and for each other’s. Hinata quietly hoped this new approach might ease the silent ache within her heart.

x-x-x-x

Sasuke stood outside the Hyuga compound gates, arms crossed tightly over his chest, a deep scowl etched into his features. The setting sun cast orange and pink hues across the sky, but his eyes remained fixed sternly ahead, mind somewhere else entirely.

His jaw clenched as he recalled his earlier interaction with Kakashi. The man's words echoed incessantly in his mind:

"For someone who claims you're not jealous, you sure have a strange way of showing it."

He scoffed quietly to himself, annoyance simmering beneath his calm facade. Jealous? Ridiculous. What did Kakashi know, anyway?

He was protective, yes. But jealous? Sasuke's frown deepened. No. Impossible. He was simply concerned about Hinata, a young woman whom an older man was blatantly making inappropriate advances towards. As her friend and husband, protecting her dignity was his responsibility. That wasn't jealousy. It was common decency. Honor.

Yet, Sasuke found himself increasingly agitated as his mind began to spiral. Images of Kakashi leaning in, his hand caressing Hinata's cheek intimately, replayed vividly in his mind, fueling his irritation. He knew that Kakashi had gotten too close, had crossed a line. But why exactly did that action, that simple touch, spark such a violent reaction within him?

He growled under his breath, irritated at his own thoughts, stubbornly brushing off the possibility that perhaps he felt something deeper than mere protectiveness.

His mental tug-of-war was abruptly interrupted by the sound of familiar footsteps approaching. Sasuke quickly straightened, tension easing slightly at the soft voice calling his name.

"Sasuke-kun."

He turned around to face Hinata, watching quietly as she approached, breathless as though she had hurried. Her white eyes met his briefly, her expression shyly apologetic.

"Have you been waiting long?" she asked softly, offering him a hesitant smile.

Sasuke shook his head slightly, voice flat. "Just a couple minutes."

She visibly relaxed, releasing a relieved sigh. "Oh good, I was worried I was running late."

"Hn." He shoved his hands deeper into his pockets, looking away. "We should head inside, then," he murmured evenly, moving to turn towards the gate. But then he paused, noticing how Hinata lingered behind, shifting anxiously on her feet, clearly wanting to say something more.

He sighed deeply, his irritation rising once again. Why couldn't she just come out with it?

"What is it now?" he asked bluntly, eyes narrowing at her hesitant stance. "If you have something else you want to say, spit it out already."

Hinata swallowed nervously, fiddling with her fingers, before finally whispering, "Did you…Sasuke-kun, did you hurt Kakashi's hand?"

Sasuke’s irritation flared instantly at the question. His eyes narrowed sharply, voice dripping with sarcasm. "Did he tell on me?"

Hinata quickly shook her head. "No, he didn't. But I suppose you just told on yourself."

He scoffed bitterly, turning away and crossing his arms tightly. "Fine. Are you mad at me now?"

She hesitated briefly, but then nodded slowly. "Yes. I am."

Sasuke stiffened at her admission, eyes widening slightly as he turned back to her sharply. "Are you serious?" he asked, voice low, dangerously close to snapping.

"Why would you do something like that, Sasuke-kun?" she asked, her soft voice laced with confusion and quiet disappointment.

His jaw clenched, teeth grinding together in barely suppressed frustration. Without thinking, he stepped forward quickly, crowding her personal space and causing her to stumble slightly backward. His hand reached out, gently yet firmly gripping her chin, lifting her face so her wide, startled eyes were forced to meet his heated gaze.

"Because I saw Kakashi touch you in a way I didn't like," he murmured, voice dangerously low. "So I simply made it clear that he should never touch you like that again. That's exactly why I crushed his hand, and knowing you, you probably healed him afterward anyway."

Hinata stared at him, speechless, cheeks flushed deep red under his intense gaze. He released her chin, stepping back as a heavy exhale escaped his lips, voice strained as he turned away.

"I've been trying my damned hardest to accommodate your friendship with him, even knowing what I know. But I didn't like what I saw. Has he touched you like that before?"

Her silence was answer enough, and Sasuke clenched his fists in irritation. He turned his back to her sharply, voice clipped. "Forget it. Let's just get this dinner over with."

He began walking forward, eager to leave the uncomfortable topic behind, when he heard her quiet voice asked, "Are you mad at me?"

Sasuke paused mid-step, heart beating harder in his chest. He closed his eyes briefly, inhaling deeply. "I don't know exactly what I'm feeling towards you right now," he finally admitted quietly, honestly. "But I can tell you I'm furious at Kakashi."

He glanced back at her, gaze unreadable. "I'm doing my best not to lash out at you, because we've been…we've been doing so well. So don't push me. Now, are you ready to go inside?"

Hinata slowly nodded, though he refused to look longer, unwilling to analyze her expression. His heart still churned in agitation, but for now, he simply wanted the night to pass quickly and leave all of this unnecessary confusion far behind him.

Sasuke's footsteps felt heavier than normal as he followed closely behind Hinata into the spacious, formal dining room of the Hyuga compound. His eyes carefully scanned the room, instantly noticing the meticulously placed china, silverware, and carefully prepared dishes set out neatly on the large, polished wooden table.

Across from the table sat Hiashi, composed and regal as ever, with Hanabi sitting to his left, arms crossed and a faint frown tugging at her features. On his right sat Hinata's grandfather, his sharp white eyes already locked on Sasuke. Sasuke briefly met his gaze, his own eyes narrowing slightly, but decided to ignore it for the moment.

Hiashi offered them both a cordial nod, motioning politely to the two empty seats before them. "Hinata, Sasuke, please have a seat."

Sasuke silently pulled Hinata's chair out for her, waiting patiently until she settled herself before he finally took his seat beside her. He could still feel Hanabi's steady gaze, examining him with a judgmental frown. Sasuke deliberately avoided acknowledging her, choosing instead to quietly observe the carefully arranged dishes.

The dinner began in near silence, the atmosphere stiffly formal and overly polite. The rhythmic clinking of utensils and subdued murmurs filled the silence, punctuated occasionally by Hiashi directing questions at his eldest daughter.

"Hinata," Hiashi began evenly, gently cutting into his fish, "How has your job at the library been faring recently? I trust everything has been going smoothly?"

Hinata nodded softly, setting down her chopsticks delicately, offering her father a quiet smile. "It's been going very well, Otou-sama. The children are lovely to work with, and I've been enjoying myself."

"Ah, yes, you work closely with the children," Hiashi commented, an approving tone in his voice, "I'm glad you find it fulfilling. And your schedule remains manageable, I presume?"

Hinata gave a soft nod, pausing for just a brief moment. "Yes, I've been handling it well. I requested off yesterday and today, actually."

Hiashi raised an inquisitive eyebrow, a faint curiosity flickering in his pale eyes. "Oh? Why yesterday?"

Sasuke stiffened slightly, silently bracing himself as he continued eating, keeping his eyes trained on his food. Hinata smiled faintly, softly replying, "Yesterday was Sasuke-kun's birthday."

The room fell into awkward silence, all eyes immediately turning to Sasuke. He paused mid-chew, feeling increasingly uncomfortable under the scrutiny of the Hyuga family. After swallowing his bite, he nodded stiffly, eyes slightly narrowed, unsure how to respond to their sudden attention.

Hanabi broke the silence first, a small smirk tugging at her lips. "Well, happy belated birthday, Big Brother Sasuke."

"Indeed," Hiashi added politely, nodding at him. "Happy birthday."

Sasuke inclined his head awkwardly, clearing his throat. "Thank you."

He felt the older man's piercing gaze drilling into him, his eyes uncomfortably observant. Hinata's grandfather was studying him closely, making Sasuke tense further, fighting the urge to snap at the old man's rude behavior. He stayed quiet, though, forcing himself to remain calm for Hinata's sake.

The grandfather suddenly cleared his throat, breaking the heavy silence. His sharp gaze fixed upon Sasuke directly as he spoke bluntly, "Tell me, Sasuke. Have you and Hinata begun trying for a child yet?"

Sasuke immediately choked on his tea, nearly sputtering it out onto the table. Beside him, Hinata gasped, coughing violently as her cheeks turned a bright scarlet hue.

"G-grandfather!" Hinata stammered, eyes wide with embarrassment.

Hanabi leaned forward, her eyes glinting with amusement. "Yes, Big Brother, have you two been busy? We are all quite eager to know."

Hinata shot her sister a glare, cheeks flushing deeper. "Hanabi, please don't say such things!"

Hiashi, clearly embarrassed himself, cleared his throat loudly, looking away but unable to fully hide his curiosity.

Sasuke exhaled sharply, irritation rising rapidly beneath his calm exterior. "I fail to see how that topic is appropriate for tonight," he replied flatly, his voice even but tight. "Hinata and I are young, and it hasn't exactly been a priority."

The older man's eyes narrowed further, his tone growing sharper. "It should be. I would have expected a child produced by now, considering the importance and uniqueness of a child born of both Uchiha and Hyuga bloodlines."

Sasuke scoffed softly, anger rising dangerously. "Produced?" He repeated coldly, leaning forward slightly, eyes narrowing sharply. "Is that what this is about? Mere curiosity about some kind of experimental hybrid?"

Hinata unexpectedly chimed in, her voice quiet but firm, and Sasuke felt a faint sense of relief and surprise at her boldness. "Grandfather, if Sasuke-kun and I should have a child, I don't want them treated as some experiment for observation. Our child would deserve more respect than that."

Sasuke glanced toward her briefly, admiring her courage, even amidst his growing irritation.

But her grandfather was not deterred, his stern voice pressing onward. "It's not an experiment, Hinata. It's about ensuring the legacy and future stability of both our clans. Such a child would carry immense power and influence. They would be an important bridge between Uchiha and Hyuga, symbolizing a unification of two historically prestigious families."

Hinata looked toward her father, silently pleading for help, and Hiashi finally intervened gently, "Father, Sasuke and Hinata have only been married a year. Perhaps we should allow them more time—"

"A year is long enough," her grandfather cut in harshly. "Time isn't something we should waste."

Sasuke's jaw tightened further, his knuckles turning white from gripping the edge of the table. He had been holding back biting responses the entire evening, but he was dangerously close to losing patience. The old man had pushed him repeatedly.

Hanabi had fallen silent now, clearly sensing the growing tension. Sasuke forced himself to take a deep breath, carefully swallowing down his anger, attempting one last calm response.

"This conversation is neither productive nor appropriate," Sasuke said coldly, voice tight and controlled. "Hinata and I will decide when and if we have a child. It isn't something for you or anyone else to pressure us into."

He locked eyes fiercely with Hinata's grandfather, his own gaze unwavering and dangerously icy, warning him silently not to push further.

Hinata shifted uncomfortably beside him, and Sasuke could sense her quiet distress at the tense atmosphere. He forced himself to ease slightly, fighting his instinct to further snap at the old man. Instead, he reached subtly beneath the table, gently brushing his fingers against hers, silently trying to reassure her.

Hinata briefly squeezed his fingers, visibly comforted by his quiet support, though her embarrassment lingered heavily. Sasuke's gaze remained firm, silently daring anyone at the table to continue the conversation.

Hanabi, perhaps sensing how dangerously close Sasuke was to losing his patience with their grandfather, suddenly cleared her throat and swiftly redirected the conversation to something safer.

"Oh! Father," she began, eyes brightening a little too eagerly, "I almost forgot to tell you. Konohamaru-san mentioned earlier today that he's thinking of taking on another genin team soon. He said he was looking forward to consulting you on some Gentle Fist techniques for one of the potential students."

The sudden shift in conversation caught everyone's attention, and Hiashi nodded approvingly, clearly interested.

"Hmm, Konohamaru-san always has promising students," Hiashi responded thoughtfully, turning his attention fully toward Hanabi now. "I'd be glad to offer some guidance when the time comes."

Their grandfather's intense stare slowly peeled away from Sasuke, his gaze redirecting to Hanabi as she spoke animatedly about Konohamaru and his bright students.

Sasuke felt immediate relief. It was as if someone had finally released him from a suffocating grip. He let out a breath he hadn't realized he'd been holding.

Yet, as the heated tension around him began to subside, he felt another wave of discomfort creep slowly up his neck. His hand immediately reached for the teacup in front of him, bringing it quickly to his lips.

As he sipped quietly, Sasuke suddenly became hyper-aware of what he and Hinata had just argued. He stared blankly into the tea, eyes reflecting dimly in its surface.

They had argued together.

Together.

They defended the possibility, the very concept, of having a child. And not simply as some distant, detached idea, but as something they both felt deeply enough about to respond passionately.

He felt his face heat again, a warmth spreading across his cheeks that had nothing to do with the hot tea. Embarrassed, he took another quick sip, grateful for the cup hiding his flushed expression.

He carefully slid his gaze sideways, discreetly stealing a glance at Hinata. She looked slightly flustered, though more composed than him, quietly listening to Hanabi and her father's conversation. Her cheeks still had that faint flush, a lingering hint of embarrassment, but she didn't look upset.

She wasn't looking at him. Did she realize what they’d just implied together? How personal, how real it sounded?

Sasuke cursed silently to himself, feeling distinctly uncomfortable with his spiraling thoughts. He had meant what he said as logic—just reasoning, just argument—but somehow, the words came out differently, more intimate and honest than he'd ever intended.

And yet…

The more he thought about it, the more surprisingly comfortable he was with the idea. Not about being forced into something, not about expectations, but about the possibility. He could suddenly imagine, with startling clarity, Hinata holding a child that was theirs. He could picture it vividly, her smile gentle, comforting, the same smile that was slowly becoming part of his day-to-day reality.

His heart thumped harder in his chest, loud enough that he worried others might hear it. This was dangerous territory. He didn’t want to acknowledge these thoughts.

Taking another careful sip, he forced his attention back toward Hiashi and Hanabi, trying to ignore the lingering heat across his face.

But even as he listened, even as he feigned calmness, his mind continued to wander back to Hinata’s voice. The certainty in her tone. Her strength as she defended the privacy of their future.

Quietly, subtly, Sasuke glanced at her once more, his pulse stuttering slightly when he caught her quickly pulling her eyes away from him. Sasuke swallowed down his nerves, placing his cup back onto the table.

x-x-x-x

The dinner continued to weigh on Sasuke’s mind, the old man’s insistent words still ringing annoyingly in his ears. However, something else still nagged at him as well, Kakashi and that damned hand of his. The thought of it still had Sasuke’s jaw clenching, teeth grinding in silent irritation. The sheer audacity Kakashi had shown in touching Hinata like that still rubbed him raw, gnawing persistently at the edges of his thoughts.

Yet, he kept it in check. For now.

After what felt like an eternity, the dinner finally came to a merciful end. Sasuke stood, pulling Hinata’s chair out for her as they prepared to leave. They quietly followed her family towards the front of the manor, Sasuke keenly aware of the tension that hung thickly in the air.

Just as they reached the door, Hinata’s grandfather abruptly turned to them, his expression stern, voice firm.

“I certainly expect you to take seriously what we’ve discussed today, Uchiha,” he said pointedly, eyes narrowed. “It is crucial a child is produced sooner rather than later.”

Sasuke froze mid-step. Those damned words again. His eye twitched.

Something within him snapped, his chakra suddenly flaring out sharply, a dangerous and oppressive pressure filling the air. Hiashi and Hanabi both stiffened noticeably, eyes widening. Even Hinata’s breath caught audibly. But Sasuke’s gaze remained hard, cold, and locked fiercely on the old man, who was suddenly looking rather pale and small.

Taking slow steps forward, Sasuke held his gaze unwaveringly, his voice chillingly calm yet dripping with warning, “Thank you for dinner tonight. Let’s do this again soon.”

He took immense satisfaction in the way the old man visibly trembled, legs nearly buckling beneath him. Hinata immediately moved forward, concerned, as if to catch her grandfather should he fall, but Sasuke swiftly grabbed her elbow and turned her firmly away from them, leading her out of the manor without another backward glance.

The walk back began in strained silence. The cool evening air drifted softly around them, but the awkward tension was palpable, thick enough to choke on.

“Come,” Sasuke suddenly said, voice soft yet firm as he turned down a different path.

Hinata hesitated slightly, confused. “Wait—where are we going?”

Sasuke didn’t stop walking, only briefly glancing over his shoulder. “Just follow me.”

He walked slightly ahead, his pace steady. He listened carefully, reassured by the soft shuffle of her footsteps following close behind him.

After a short distance, the muted hum of music and distant laughter reached them. He stopped in front of the brightly lit space, decorated stalls, twinkling lights, soft music filling the atmosphere. The couples' event.

He heard Hinata’s quiet gasp behind him, followed by a soft, uncertain, “S-Sasuke-kun…?”

He kept his expression neutral, hands stuffed casually in his pockets. “I'm going on a mission tomorrow morning,” he murmured softly, unable to fully meet her gaze. “It’ll probably last a while. I figured since it’s the last day for this stupid thing, I’d take you here as a thank you for yesterday.”

He mentally cringed. Even he could hear the awkwardness in his own voice, the way his words felt embarrassingly foreign leaving his lips. Months ago, he would never have done something so sentimental, taking Hinata somewhere so clearly intended for romantic couples. It was absurd how natural it now seemed, even subconsciously, to bring her here. A small part of him acknowledged that perhaps he was beginning to blur the line between friendship and something else—but he quickly silenced the thought, not willing to dwell on it.

“You didn’t have to,” she said gently, pulling him from his thoughts. “I know you don’t like things like this.”

Sasuke cleared his throat softly, shrugging and feigning indifference. He met her gaze directly, raising an eyebrow challengingly. “So, you’d rather go home then?”

Hinata blinked, startled, before rapidly shaking her head. “No! I—I’d like to stay,” she answered quickly.

His smirk returned, smug and confident. “That’s what I thought,” he teased lightly, gesturing around. “Lead the way, then. Though, if they make us play cheesy games or something, I'm blaming you.”

Hinata giggled quietly, visibly relaxing. As they walked, Sasuke silently observed her. His thoughts drifted back to yesterday evening, how happy he'd felt as they sat beneath the stars. He'd never admit it out loud, but just the memory of it stirred something warm deep inside him. It felt embarrassingly good, like sunlight gradually breaking through storm clouds.

He glanced again at Hinata, noticing the quiet delight in her eyes as she glanced around. She paused briefly, gaze locking onto a vendor’s stall ahead, a plush bear prominently displayed as its prize.

Without a second thought, Sasuke approached the stall, Hinata scrambling quickly behind him, surprised. “You don’t have to—”

“Quiet,” Sasuke said simply, handing over his money. The vendor smiled knowingly, fully expecting Sasuke to lose.

The game itself was straightforward enough, knock down a pyramid of carefully stacked bottles with a weighted ball. Sasuke immediately recognized how rigged the setup was. It didn't matter. With practiced ease and perfect precision, he aimed, threw, and watched with smug satisfaction as all the bottles collapsed loudly, much to the vendor's shock.

“That bear,” Sasuke demanded evenly, pointing to the plush Hinata had eyed earlier.

The vendor begrudgingly handed it over, visibly disappointed. Sasuke turned towards Hinata and offered the bear to her.

She hesitated, eyes wide, surprised. “Sasuke-kun…?”

He sighed, mildly embarrassed. “I was probably a bit harsh earlier. The more I thought about it, the more annoyed I got about Kakashi. But…” he trailed off awkwardly, not quite able to fully express what he wanted to say. Instead, he scoffed lightly, smirking. “Close your mouth. Take the bear, or I'll just give it back.”

Flushing prettily, she quickly accepted it, cradling it gently. “Thank you, Sasuke-kun.”

She hesitated briefly, eyes focused shyly down at the bear as they continued walking. “How long will your mission be exactly?”

He shrugged slightly, trying to keep his voice casual, despite the strange nervousness he felt in his chest at the thought of leaving. “Max is one month.”

Hinata hummed softly, eyes lowering slightly. Sasuke glanced curiously at her from the corner of his eye, wondering if she’d miss him. He didn’t dare voice that question aloud.

For the remainder of the evening, Sasuke quietly watched Hinata, enjoying the gentle happiness on her face as they explored the stalls and games together. With each quiet laugh she gave, he found his nerves slowly easing, the tension in his shoulders gradually softening.

He never imagined he could feel this content just from spending time with someone, but somehow, Hinata had quietly made him feel that way.

By the end of the night, as they slowly began their walk home, Sasuke found himself carefully matching his pace with hers. Quietly walking at her side, his gaze softened subtly. Tomorrow, he’d leave. But right now, tonight, he silently allowed himself to savor her quiet company, to enjoy how comfortable he’d become simply being beside her.

Sasuke glanced briefly at her serene expression illuminated softly beneath the moonlight, feeling an odd warmth he still refused to acknowledge.

x-x-x-x

Next morning…

Morning sunlight filtered gently through the windows, casting muted golden patterns across the floor as Sasuke stood rigidly in front of the door, adjusting his cloak in quiet preparation. He could feel Hinata’s quiet gaze upon him, making him shift slightly from foot to foot, internally struggling to keep his composure.

“Be careful out there, Sasuke-kun,” Hinata finally murmured softly, hands folded neatly in front of her, eyes filled with genuine concern.

He hesitated slightly, unaccustomed to the warmth in her voice directed towards him. It felt foreign, almost surreal. After all, not so long ago, it wasn’t Hinata standing here to see him off. It had been Sakura. Usually, mornings like these before missions were spent away from home, quietly departing from Sakura’s place or some obscure inn to avoid running into Hinata altogether. This new reality, standing face-to-face with his wife in their home, saying goodbye like this, felt both awkward and strangely comforting.

"I will," Sasuke answered softly, voice barely more than a murmur.

An awkward silence settled between them briefly, the soft sound of their breathing the only thing breaking the quiet. Sasuke took a deep breath, then exhaled slowly, his nerves unexpectedly raw. Stepping forward slightly, he met her gaze steadily, swallowing back the discomfort.

“I'm cashing in that favor you owe me,” he said calmly, keeping his voice steady and gaze unwavering.

Hinata blinked, confusion dancing briefly in her eyes. Then amusement took over, her lips curving slightly into a gentle, playful smile. “Favor? Ah…What is it, Sasuke-kun?”

His expression hardened subtly, his eyes narrowing slightly. “Don’t see Kakashi while I’m gone.”

The amusement on Hinata’s face abruptly vanished, replaced quickly by stunned surprise, then hesitation. Sasuke watched carefully, silently analyzing every subtle shift in her expression. Her soft eyes flickered nervously, teeth biting gently into her lower lip, clearly conflicted and guilty. He didn’t miss how her posture stiffened, her breath quietly catching in her chest.

“You can do that for me, can't you?” Sasuke pressed carefully, stepping closer again, prompting her to raise her gaze fully up to his. He saw the swirl of confusion, guilt, and a quiet, subtle resistance hidden in her expression.

She hesitated again, softly whispering, “Sasuke-kun, are you worried?”

Sasuke’s jaw tightened, but he kept his voice deceptively calm. “After what I saw, I know Kakashi’s intentions. You didn’t exactly deny it wasn’t the first time. It wouldn’t surprise me if something more happened while I was gone.”

Hinata immediately shook her head, her voice quiet yet firm. “I wouldn’t let anything happen. Besides Kakashi and I were going to start training sessions together. Nothing outside of that. Just training. If I just don't show up, he’ll wonder what happened and come here to check on me.”

Sasuke frowned deeply at the thought, feeling irritation spike sharply through his chest. “Then you tell him exactly what happened—that your husband explicitly told you he doesn’t want you seeing him while I’m gone. I'm not sure you have the willpower to resist his advances much longer.”

Hinata’s eyes widened, taken aback as she instinctively stepped backward, but Sasuke quickly reached forward, his grip firm yet gentle as he held her arms, preventing any retreat. Leaning closer, eyes intense and serious, he demanded quietly, “I need to hear you say it, Hinata.”

She hesitated, swallowing nervously, gaze flickering uncertainly beneath his intense scrutiny. Finally, after a deep, quiet breath, she softly whispered, “I won’t see Kakashi while you're gone. I promise.”

Sasuke’s grip eased slightly on her arms, but he didn’t release her just yet. He narrowed his eyes, searching her face intently, trying to pick apart every twitch, every movement, looking for any trace of hesitation or dishonesty. But there wasn’t any. Her eyes were steady. Clear. Soft with guilt, yes, but not deceitful.

“You’ll really keep that promise?” he asked, voice low.

Hinata nodded slowly. “I will.”

Sasuke held her gaze for a moment longer, then exhaled quietly, finally letting go of her arms. His fingers lingered for a fraction of a second before he stepped back, trying not to make it obvious that his own tension had eased.

“…Thanks,” he muttered, almost begrudgingly.

God, he felt stupid.

He’d been saving that favor for something small. Something harmless. Like asking her to cook miso ramen again or maybe go with him to that quiet bookstore near the edge of town, the one he still pretended not to like even though she’d clearly noticed how often he went. Maybe even ask her to sit with him in the garden one evening while he tried to teach her how to use a shuriken more efficiently, something that felt more normal. Something tame.

But now, here he was, wasting it, burning it, on this. A personal request that bordered on controlling. And all because…

His fists clenched at his sides.

All because the thought of leaving for two weeks, maybe three, maybe more, and having that old man circling around Hinata like a vulture made his stomach turn. He could already see it: Kakashi showing up unannounced, acting like he’s checking in, smirking behind that damn mask, charming with his jokes and gentle voice.

He didn’t like it. At all.

And as he stood there, staring at her soft, serious face, something settled heavily in his chest.

He didn’t want her to lie to him.

He didn’t want her to see Kakashi.

He didn’t want Kakashi touching her.

Sasuke stood still, staring deeply into her honest, conflicted eyes. His own thoughts suddenly sharpened into clear realization, an irritated voice muttering in the back of his mind:

Shit. Maybe I am jealous.