Quietly, Yours

Hinata stirred slightly, consciousness slowly returning, bringing with it a dull, throbbing ache. Her eyelids fluttered open cautiously, only to squeeze shut again instantly against the harsh brightness flooding down from overhead. She winced, her head spinning lightly, feeling as though she'd been sleeping for years rather than days. Her vision swam briefly, blurry and unsteady, but she forced herself to reopen her eyes, letting them slowly adjust to the sharp, clinical light.

A soft breeze drifted in through the open window nearby, stirring the curtains gently and carrying the faint scent of summer air. The rhythmic rustling was soothing, grounding her amidst the strange disorientation of waking up in an unfamiliar place. As her awareness grew, she became conscious of something else, the faint, familiar presence of someone seated beside her, breathing slow and even.

Slowly, she turned her head toward the gentle shuffling sounds, gaze falling onto the sleeping figure beside her bed. Hinata's heart warmed, her lips curving into a faint smile at the sight of Sasuke slumped awkwardly in a chair. His arms were crossed loosely over his chest, head tilted downward as he slept, soft black bangs shading his eyes. He looked peaceful in a way she rarely saw, the usual guarded edge around him softened by sleep.

Hinata shifted slightly, wanting to sit up and properly look around. But the instant she moved, Sasuke's dark eyes snapped open, sharp and alert. He blinked once, visibly startled to see her awake.

"Hinata?" he muttered softly, voice still heavy with sleep. Quickly, though, his expression shifted into a faint frown. "Hey, lay back down. You shouldn't be sitting up yet."

"I-I'm okay," she tried to reassure him, though her voice came out hoarse and quiet. She pressed her palms into the bed, stubbornly pushing upward. But her limbs felt weak, her muscles trembling faintly beneath her weight.

Sasuke scowled slightly at her stubbornness, letting out an sigh. "You're so annoying," he grumbled softly, but even as he complained, he stood quickly, moving closer to her bedside to help her. Gently, carefully, he adjusted the pillows behind her back, propping her upright and ensuring she was stable. His touch was gentle, a quiet, wordless concern shining through his careful movements.

Once comfortably upright, Hinata exhaled softly, feeling slightly steadier. She gave Sasuke a grateful smile, though her cheeks warmed faintly. "Th-Thank you, Sasuke-kun."

He only huffed quietly, embarrassed, eyes flickering briefly away from her. Hinata tilted her head slightly, voice soft and uncertain. "How long have I been out?"

Sasuke paused a moment, jaw tightening subtly. When he finally spoke, his voice came out quieter, heavier. "A couple of days," he said reluctantly. His eyes were dark, a strain she'd never quite seen before shadowing his normally stoic face. "The doctors...they didn't think you'd make it."

Hinata's chest tightened at the emotion flickering through his usually steady voice. Wanting to ease that troubled expression from his face, she forced a gentle smile. "But I'm alive, right?"

He didn't return her weak attempt at humor. His eyes flashed with an unsettling anger, voice firm and bitter, fist tightening in his lap. "If something had happened to you, I would've killed your cousin."

Her eyes widened, breath hitching slightly. "D-Don't say things like that, Sasuke-kun..."

"I don't care!" Sasuke snapped, his gaze unwavering, fierce with quiet intensity. Hinata went quiet, knowing nothing she said would soothe the stubborn anger radiating from him.

Gaze drifting quietly across the room, she noticed a small vase filled with flowers sitting on the bedside table, bright and cheerful, standing out against the sterile hospital surroundings.

"Those are from your teammates," Sasuke murmured quietly, noticing her questioning glance. "They came by a few days ago with your teacher."

Hinata nodded softly, feeling a faint warmth in her chest at Kiba and Shino's kindness. She didn't dare ask if her father had come. She knew instinctively what the answer would be and felt her throat tighten painfully. The shame of that question was too much to bear.

A soft knock on the door caught their attention as a nurse entered, clipboard in hand. She glanced up, eyes widening in delighted surprise. "Oh, you're awake! That's wonderful!" The nurse smiled warmly, quickly moving toward Hinata to begin checking her vitals.

"How are you feeling?" the nurse asked gently, carefully examining Hinata's pulse and breathing.

"Just...a bit dizzy," Hinata admitted softly. "And tired."

The nurse nodded kindly, continuing her examination. She glanced sideways at Sasuke and smiled knowingly. "You know, your friend here never left your side. Not once. He practically lived here."

Sasuke immediately stiffened, cheeks flushing a deep, mortified red. He turned his head away abruptly, scowling at nothing in particular.

Hinata blinked, a warm, affectionate smile spreading across her face as she glanced at his embarrassed profile. Sasuke stubbornly refused to meet her eyes, clearly uncomfortable with the attention.

"Well," the nurse continued cheerfully, apparently oblivious to Sasuke's obvious discomfort, "the doctor would like to keep you here for observation a bit longer. But if you continue improving like this, you'll be ready to be discharged in about two days."

Hinata felt a quiet disappointment settle over her, though she nodded obediently. "Thank you," she murmured softly as the nurse exited the room.

As soon as the door closed behind her, Hinata looked quietly toward Sasuke, eyes gentle yet curious. "Y-You really stayed the whole time?"

Sasuke scowled deeper, embarrassment flickering across his face as he pointedly avoided her gaze. "That nurse talks too much," he muttered defensively, cheeks faintly pink as he glanced at her from the corner of his eye. "Stop looking at me like that."

Hinata's smile softened. "Thank you, Sasuke-kun."

He said nothing, but after a moment of tense silence, he pushed himself roughly to his feet, clearly uncomfortable with the vulnerable air between them. "I'm heading out for now," he said flatly. "But I'll be back later. To check on you."

She shook her head softly. "It's okay, Sasuke-kun. You should go home and rest—"

"I'm fine," he interrupted sharply, though his voice softened slightly when he glanced back at her face. He studied her quietly for a lingering moment before abruptly turning to the door. He hesitated briefly at the threshold, his back facing her, hands curled tightly into fists by his side. Quietly, almost too softly to hear, he murmured, "I'm glad you're awake."

Before Hinata could respond, Sasuke slipped silently out the door, the quiet click leaving her alone in the softly lit room. She stared gently after him, a fond smile tugging gently at her lips.

Slowly, she shook her head, heart warm with quiet gratitude for her best friend. Sasuke Uchiha was stubborn, grumpy, and completely infuriating sometimes.

But Hinata wouldn't trade him for anything in the world.

X X X X X X X X X X X

Sasuke stepped out onto the streets of Konoha, his dark eyes narrowed in a tight glare, hands shoved deep inside his pockets. The hospital doors swung closed softly behind him, but his mind was still back in that quiet room, Hinata’s sleeping face, the gentle sound of her breathing, and the nurse’s teasing words that lingered like irritating echoes in his ears.

That nurse should mind her own business, Sasuke thought irritably. He scowled, quickly pushing away the embarrassing flush that crept up his neck whenever he thought about how she'd revealed he'd hardly left Hinata's side. It wasn't something he wanted anyone else to know about.

As he walked, the sun's fading light cast shadows across his path, but all Sasuke could see was Neji Hyuga's cold, disdainful expression from the preliminaries. His jaw tightened as he recalled the cruelty with which Hinata's cousin had attacked her, how she'd crumpled to the ground coughing up blood. Sasuke's fists clenched in his pockets, nails biting into his palms. Just remembering how Neji had watched her, emotionless and uncaring, made Sasuke’s blood boil.

If Neji thought he could walk around the village without consequence after what he’d done, he was dead wrong. Sasuke wasn’t usually one for reckless confrontations, but when it came to Hinata, something darker and fiercer rose inside him. Neji should consider himself lucky he hadn’t yet crossed Sasuke’s path alone, because if he did, the only thing that would save the arrogant Hyuga prodigy would be the presence of witnesses.

Let’s just hope you stay hidden,Neji, Sasuke thought bitterly. His protective instincts toward Hinata ran deeper than even he could explain, but they were there, strong and unyielding, quietly simmering beneath his calm exterior.

His thoughts were abruptly interrupted by Naruto’s voice ringing out loudly from behind him. “Oi, Sasuke!”

He stopped walking, closing his eyes briefly in irritation. Naruto was the absolute last person he wanted to see right now.

Naruto jogged up, Sakura right behind him. “Hey!” Naruto called again, grinning. “You ignoring us or something?”

“Obviously,” Sasuke replied dryly, turning to face his teammates. “What do you two want?”

Sakura smiled nervously, twisting a strand of her hair. “Naruto and I were heading to Ichiraku’s. Do you want to join us, Sasuke-kun?”

Sasuke hesitated, scowling faintly. “I don’t have time. I need to train for the finals.”

Naruto scoffed. “Are you serious? Come on, that’s a whole month away. One meal won’t kill you.”

Sakura nudged Naruto’s arm, smiling sweetly toward Sasuke. “Please, Sasuke-kun? You should take a break and get something to eat.”

Sasuke’s gaze slid toward Naruto. The blonde’s eyes had darkened, an obvious frown on his face as he watched Sakura speak to Sasuke. He wondered briefly if Sakura ever noticed Naruto’s obvious feelings for her the same as Naruto was oblivious to Hinata, or if she simply chose to ignore his feelings. Either way, Sasuke knew Naruto wouldn’t want him there, and truthfully, he’d rather be alone than watch Naruto moon over Sakura.

Sakura’s pleading green eyes pierced him, however, and he sighed quietly in defeat. “Fine. Just one bowl.”

Sakura brightened instantly, smiling brightly. Naruto’s shoulders slumped visibly in disappointment.

When they reached Ichiraku, Kiba was already inside, finishing up his bowl of ramen. He turned when he saw them, his lips tugging into a wolfish grin. “Yo! Team Seven, huh? Sasuke, you look like crap.”

Naruto burst out laughing. Sakura scowled. “Kiba! Don’t be rude!”

Naruto chuckled behind his hand, trying unsuccessfully to stifle it. “I mean, he kinda does though—”

Sasuke shot him a cold glare, taking a seat at the far end, purposely placing himself beside Naruto. This forced Sakura to sit on Naruto’s other side, much to Naruto’s delight and Sakura’s evident discomfort.

“Maybe he’s tired because he’s been camping out next to Hinata’s hospital bed,” Kiba teased mischievously, his smirk widening.

Sasuke stiffened, feeling heat creep quickly up his neck. Naruto’s chopsticks froze midair. Sakura’s eyes darted toward Sasuke in shock.

“What?” Naruto turned fully, eyes wide. “Wait—why?”

Sakura leaned closer, confusion plain on her face. “Is that true, Sasuke-kun? You stayed by her side?”

Sasuke glared sharply at Kiba, snapping defensively, “That’s none of your business. And I wasn’t ‘camping out’ anywhere.”

Sakura hesitated, eyes flickering uncertainty. “It’s just we didn’t know you two were that close.”

Naruto’s brow furrowed. He studied Sasuke suspiciously, muttering quietly, “Honestly, I don’t get it. How does someone as nice as Hinata even put up with you?”

Sasuke’s eyes darkened dangerously. “What was that?”

Naruto shrugged, turning back to his ramen. “I’m just saying. Hinata’s a sweet person. She’d never say it herself, but you’re probably a jerk to her too. It doesn’t make sense she’d be friends with someone like you.”

Sasuke’s hands clenched tightly beneath the counter, feeling genuine annoyance rising. “You don’t know a damn thing about our friendship, Naruto.”

Naruto scoffed, blue eyes flashing. “Friendship? You barely talk to anyone. You probably ignore her half the time!”

“You idiot,” Sasuke hissed, eyes narrowing dangerously. “She’s the only real friend I have, and I’d never hurt her. Not that it’s any of your business.” He immediately turned red after blurting those words out.

Naruto’s eyes widened slightly at the forcefulness in Sasuke’s voice, as if surprised Sasuke would admit something like that.

Sakura cleared her throat awkwardly, looking mildly uncomfortable. “Naruto, stop antagonizing Sasuke-kun. Though thinking back on it…,” her voice lowered uncertainly, “I was kind of surprised you jumped down into the arena to protect Hinata during the preliminaries, Sasuke-kun. Not only that, during that time at the Forest of Death.”

Sasuke tensed, refusing to look at her. “I wasn’t the only one to jump down there.” Refusing to even acknowledge what happened in the Forest of Death.

Kiba chuckled quietly, mumbling, “Funny. From what I heard, you were the first one down there, before the jonin even moved.”

Sasuke glared darkly at Kiba. “Maybe you should mind your own business, considering you lost your match to a fart.”

Kiba flushed bright red, embarrassment and irritation flashing across his face. “Hey, that was just—I mean—shut up!”

Naruto looked curiously at Sasuke, ignoring Kiba’s protests. “Hinata told me once she was your friend. I didn’t think she meant you two were actually that close.”

Sasuke turned sharply, voice laced with frustration. “Why does it even matter?”

Naruto scowled stubbornly. “It matters because Hinata deserves someone nice around her, not some moody jerk. You probably don’t even realize when you hurt her feelings.”

Sasuke’s voice rose angrily. “Don’t talk like you know her better than me, dobe. You’re the one who barely pays attention to her! You didnt even come visit her.”

“I-I’ve just been busy! That’s all! I was going to visit her! She’s my friend too, ya know!” Naruto bristled, leaning forward aggressively. “Besides, I notice plenty! More than you think!”

Kiba laughed awkwardly. “Okay, this really sounds like a lover’s quarrel—”

Both Naruto and Sasuke turned on him instantly, twin glares venomous. “Shut up, Kiba!”

Sasuke stood to his feet, feeling his mood completely ruined, ready to leave. But hearing Naruto muttering something under his breath made him stop.

Sasuke's eyes narrowed dangerously as he turned slowly. “What did you just say?”

Naruto smiled smugly, ignoring him, focusing instead on his ramen.

Sasuke glared, jaw clenched tightly. He turned away sharply. “Forget it. I don’t have time for this.”

“Sasuke-kun, wait!” Sakura reached out quickly. “Please, don’t go!”

But he ignored her, stepping out into the cool evening air. Anger simmered beneath his skin as he strode away. Naruto always managed to get under his skin, his rival’s voice echoing irritatingly in his head.

It doesn’t make sense she’d be friends with someone like you.

He scoffed bitterly. What did Naruto know anyway? Sasuke had been ready to throw everything away to protect her. Even if it meant disqualification, he would’ve shielded her from Neji's attack. No second thoughts. No regrets. He’d always been protective of her, even when they were kids.

And yet, Naruto, loud, oblivious Naruto, dared question him?

Sasuke scowled, fists clenched at his sides. He was done listening to Naruto’s nonsense.

He had more important things to do. Like prepare for the finals.

And maybe, if he was lucky, Neji Hyuga would finally show his arrogant face because Sasuke was more than ready to finish what he'd started.

Sasuke arrived at the training grounds just as the sky had begun to dim, the last remnants of sunlight casting long shadows over the worn dirt and flattened grass. His feet dragged slightly with each step, not from exhaustion but irritation, a storm still simmering beneath his skin after the confrontation at Ichiraku. The cursed seal on his neck pulsed faintly, but for now, it was quiet. Manageable.

He stepped into the clearing and spotted Kakashi almost instantly.

The silver-haired jonin was leaned up against a tree, one leg bent, foot pressed casually to the trunk, and that same damn orange book open in front of his face. Sasuke felt his eye twitch.

“Of course,” he muttered under his breath. “Always that book.”

Kakashi didn’t look up right away, but the moment Sasuke’s foot crunched a dry leaf, he snapped the book shut with one hand and tilted his head lazily in his direction.

“Ah, so the prodigal genin returns,” Kakashi said, tone relaxed but tinged with a dry edge. “You’re late.”

Sasuke stuffed his hands in his pockets, annoyed already. “I’m here now.”

Kakashi didn’t move from his spot. “You missed a whole week,” he continued calmly. “I’ve been coming here every day. Even stopped by your place. You weren’t there. Where were you?”

Sasuke looked away, jaw tight. He didn’t want to talk about it, not again. The nurse had already said too much with her, ‘Your friend never left your side’ and then there was Kiba butting in telling his business for Naruto and Sakura to hear and question him. He didn’t owe Kakashi an explanation. Not about Hinata. Not about the days he spent in that uncomfortable chair, waiting for her to open her eyes.

“I said I’m here now,” Sasuke repeated flatly, eyes narrowing. “That’s all that matters.”

Kakashi let the silence stretch, eye studying Sasuke above the edge of his mask. Then, without pressing, he pushed off the tree and tucked the book into his pouch.

“Well,” he said, stretching slightly, “since you’re finally here, we’ve got a lot of ground to cover if you’re going to be ready in time.”

Sasuke didn’t answer. He just nodded once, stepping further into the training ground. The fading sun bled through the treetops, streaking orange light across the dirt clearing, casting everything in a low, golden haze. He rolled his shoulders once, loosening the tension in his arms, his movements silent and sharp.

Kakashi followed with a lazy stroll, stopping near a group of upright logs that had clearly been battered by repeated strikes over the years. He pulled out a kunai, twirled it once around his finger, then pointed it toward Sasuke.

“Tell me,” he said, his tone shifting from casual to focused, “what’s your plan when someone’s faster than you, stronger than you, and you’re out of chakra?”

Sasuke frowned. “I’ll win before I run out of chakra.”

Kakashi’s visible eye crinkled with a smile. “Typical Uchiha answer.”

With a blur of movement, Kakashi flung the kunai at Sasuke. It sliced through the air toward his head, but Sasuke had already moved. He shifted just enough to avoid it without blinking, the blade sticking into the trunk behind him with a solid thunk.

“I wasn’t ready,” Sasuke said, frowning.

Kakashi shrugged. “You think an enemy will wait for you to be ready?”

Sasuke’s eyes narrowed.

Kakashi didn’t let up. He pulled a scroll from his pouch and unraveled it with a snap of his wrist, revealing several intricate seal markings. In the next breath, he slammed his hand to the center of the scroll. There was a puff of smoke, and three wooden staves appeared, bound in chakra rope.

“Take one,” Kakashi said simply. “We’re going back to the basics.”

Sasuke didn’t argue. He grabbed a staff and stepped into stance.

“You’re not going to win this exam with flashy moves alone,” Kakashi went on, circling him slowly. “Speed, taijutsu, chakra control. You need to learn how to read your opponent before they make their move. React before the fight even starts.”

Sasuke turned with him, staff ready. “I’ve been doing that already.”

“You’ve been doing it on instinct,” Kakashi corrected. “I’m going to teach you how to make it intentional.”

Then Kakashi moved. Fast.

He came at Sasuke low, sweeping the staff toward his legs, and Sasuke barely managed to jump back in time. Kakashi followed with an upward swing that cracked against Sasuke’s staff when he blocked, the force vibrating through his arms.

Sasuke gritted his teeth, bracing.

“Don’t just react. Anticipate!” Kakashi called.

Sasuke shifted, pivoted, then ducked under the next strike and twisted around with a quick jab toward Kakashi’s ribs. But the moment it should’ve landed, Kakashi vanished in a flicker of smoke.

Sasuke turned too late.

He felt the sharp jab of wood behind his knee. Kakashi’s staff. He buckled, hit the ground on one knee, then rolled out of the way before the second hit could strike his shoulder.

“I thought you were supposed to be a genius,” Kakashi said, landing lightly a few feet away.

Sasuke wiped his mouth with the back of his hand, his pride burning hotter than any bruise. “Then stop holding back.”

Kakashi didn’t respond right away. He just stared at Sasuke for a long moment, the smile behind the mask fading.

“You sure you’re ready for this?” he asked. “You’ve been off. Your chakra is still fluctuating around that seal and your head’s not here.”

Sasuke’s hand tightened around the staff. “I’m fine.”

Kakashi didn’t look convinced, but he didn’t press.

They went again.

Over and over. Kakashi pressed him with short-range staff combat, then switched to hand signs and low-level elemental jutsu. Sasuke countered when he could, took hits when he couldn’t. He was fast, but Kakashi was faster. Smarter. Always one step ahead. But the frustration that mounted inside Sasuke didn’t slow him, it sharpened him.

He wasn’t just training to win the exams. He was training to beat Neji. To stay ahead of Naruto. And to protect the one person who’d always been there for him, even when he hadn’t deserved it. And more importantly, to defeat Itachi.

The sky darkened slowly as they trained, stars peeking through the tree canopy. Sweat soaked through his shirt. His breathing came heavy and fast. But when Kakashi finally held up a hand to pause, Sasuke didn’t stop. He drove forward with a final strike, only for Kakashi to catch the staff mid-swing and twist it easily from his grip.

Sasuke stood there, panting, lips parted, glaring up at his teacher.

Kakashi offered the staff back to him, a rare look of approval in his visible eye.

“You’re improving,” he said simply.

Sasuke took the staff without a word and looked past the trees, toward the village.

He could still feel the cursed seal burning under his collar, but now there was something else too. Something steadier.

He was going to be ready.

X X X X X X X X X X X

Hinata sat upright in her hospital bed, the evening light casting soft shadows across the room. The aroma of her untouched dinner wafted up from the tray resting on her lap. She picked up her chopsticks, but her appetite was absent. Each breath she took sent a dull ache through her chest, a lingering reminder of her recent battle. The bruises and internal injuries from Neji's relentless attacks made even the simple act of breathing a conscious effort.

Her mind replayed the match in vivid detail: Neji's cold, condemning eyes. His scathing words about her weakness, and worst of all, the moment she collapsed before him. But what haunted her most was the memory of Naruto's voice echoing through the arena, cheering her on with unwavering belief.

"You can do it, Hinata!" he'd shouted, his voice cutting through the jeers and murmurs of the crowd.

But she hadn't done it. She'd failed. In front of everyone. In front of him.

A deep sense of shame settled over her, heavier than any physical wound. How could she face Naruto after such a disgraceful performance? He had believed in her, and she had let him down. The weight of her clan's expectations, her father's disappointment, and now Naruto's probable disillusionment pressed down on her, making the room feel stifling.

"I have to get stronger," she whispered to herself, her voice barely audible over the hum of the hospital's fluorescent lights. "I can't stay like this."

Determination flared briefly within her, igniting a resolve to train harder, to push beyond her limits. She envisioned herself standing confidently, no longer the timid, fragile girl everyone perceived her to be. She would become someone worthy of respect, someone capable of protecting those she cared about.

Lost in her thoughts, a sudden, oppressive wave of chakra washed over her, shattering her reverie. It was dark, menacing, and suffocating. Her breath hitched, and her body tensed instinctively.

No...it can't be...

But it was. She recognized this chakra. It was a presence she'd encountered during the Forest of Death, a terrifying force that had left an indelible mark on her memory.

Gaara.

The red-haired shinobi from the Hidden Sand Village. The one who had left a trail of blood and fear in his wake.

The malevolent chakra grew stronger, closer. Her heart pounded painfully against her ribs as she realized it was right outside her door.

Why is he here?

Panic surged through her veins. She wanted to move, to call for help, but her body refused to cooperate. The door creaked open slowly, each inch revealing more of the nightmare standing beyond it.

Gaara stepped into the room with an eerie calmness, his pale green eyes locking onto hers. He moved with intent, each footstep echoing loudly in her ears until he stood at the foot of her bed.

The room's temperature seemed to drop. The air grew thick, making it hard to breathe. Hinata's fingers clutched the bedsheet beneath her, knuckles turning white.

The air shifted.

Not just a breeze. Not just a chill.

It changed. Heavy and suffocating, like the weight of a thousand unseen hands pressing against her chest. Every breath Hinata took felt shallow, forced. Her fingers curled around the blanket draped across her lap, trembling as they fisted the fabric tight, her knuckles whitening beneath the strain.

She couldn’t move.

Couldn’t speak.

Not when he stood there. A shadow at the foot of her bed.

She swallowed the lump of fear that had lodged in her throat.

“W-why are you here...?” Her voice came out barely above a whisper, the words trembling on her breath.

Gaara didn’t move. His pale eyes, so hollow and unblinking, remained fixed on her. The silence stretched, deep and unbearable, before he tilted his head slightly to the side.

“You...intrigue me,” he said at last, voice eerily calm, detached. “Back in the forest you should have died. You were afraid. Your chakra trembled. Yet you still stood.”

Hinata’s fingers tightened further around the blanket, her heart hammering in her chest.

“I-I only stood because I had to,” she murmured. “I didn’t want to be afraid anymore.”

Gaara stepped forward, the sand trailing after him like a second shadow. Hinata flinched, but didn’t move away.

“People like us don’t get to choose what we fear,” he said quietly. “The only thing that gives life meaning is killing. Crushing those who stand before you. That’s what proves you exist. That’s what makes people remember.”

Hinata’s brows drew together, her voice barely audible. “T-that’s not true…”

Gaara narrowed his eyes. “You say that, but you’re wrong. You fight to be acknowledged by others. So do I. But the only difference is you’re weak. You rely on others to protect you. I don’t need anyone. I kill to survive. I kill to feel alive.”

Hinata swallowed again. His words sent ice down her spine. But still... there was something else beneath them. A desperation. A pain.

Her voice was still trembling, but steadier than before. “There’s another way. Hurting others isn’t the only way to be seen.”

He didn’t move. But the sand curled tighter behind him.

“I have people who believe in me,” she continued softly, “Even when I don’t believe in myself. I-I used to think I was nothing. That I didn’t deserve to be a ninja, or even to be here. But I want to change. I want to be strong enough to protect the people who protect me.”

Gaara’s expression barely changed, but something flickered in his eyes. Confusion, maybe. Disbelief.

“People don’t care,” he said. “They use you. Fear you. Forget you. I was born to be alone.”

Hinata’s heart twisted.

“That’s not true,” she said gently. “You don’t have to be alone.”

The sand twitched.

“You speak of things you don’t understand,” he snapped, voice rising with tension. “You, who are weak and coddled, what could you possibly know about loneliness?”

Hinata’s breath caught. For a moment, her fear threatened to pull her under again, but then, slowly, she exhaled.

“I know it hurts,” she said. “I may not show it the way you do...but I know what it’s like to feel like you're not enough. I know what it’s like to feel invisible in your own home. I know what it’s like to try so hard, and still be told you’re a failure.”

Gaara’s fists clenched at his sides. His sand rippled violently around his feet, reacting to the spike in his chakra.

“But I’m not going to let that pain decide who I am,” Hinata said. “And you shouldn’t either.”

That was when Gaara moved again. Not an attack, not yet, but a single step forward, sand coiling like a serpent around him.

His voice dropped, low and quiet. “You speak of bonds like they matter, but you don’t understand what it's like to be cursed with a name and a power that everyone hates. You think kindness will change that?”

Hinata looked at him then, not with fear, but with deep, gentle understanding.

“No, I don’t think kindness will fix everything,” she whispered. “But it can start something. Even if it’s small.”

He stared at her for several heartbeats. His expression didn’t change, but something in his aura wavered, just for a moment. Then it was gone.

Gaara’s lip curled, his eyes narrowing. “You’re foolish.”

Naruto’s voice broke through the tense silence sharply, loud and protective.

“Hey! What the hell do you think you're doing in Hinata's room?!”

Hinata’s gaze snapped to the doorway, a wave of relief washing through her the instant her eyes landed on Naruto. His bright blue eyes flared with anger and protectiveness, fists clenched tightly at his sides. She saw the confusion and fear beneath his bravado, a stark contrast to the dangerous calm still radiating from Gaara.

Gaara slowly turned his head, eyes sliding coldly toward Naruto. For a brief second, the air seemed charged with threat as Gaara’s gaze pierced the blonde shinobi. Naruto swallowed, clearly unnerved, but stood firm, unwilling to back down.

“Naruto-kun…” Hinata whispered breathlessly, heart hammering even faster in her chest.

Gaara’s sand rippled slowly back toward him, circling protectively as if anticipating an attack. Hinata could feel the sheer pressure of Gaara's presence in the room. She knew Naruto felt it too, his usually carefree expression was hardened with caution.

“You’re interrupting,” Gaara said coldly, voice low and chillingly calm. “You shouldn’t meddle in affairs that don’t concern you.”

Naruto bristled, stepping forward defiantly. “Hinata is my friend! That means it does concern me! If you touch her, I'll—”

Gaara stared at Naruto blankly, his gaze intense enough to silence him. His pale eyes narrowed slightly, clearly taking Naruto's measure.

“You're loud,” Gaara stated flatly. “You bark but have no strength. I don’t have interest in weaklings.”

Naruto clenched his fists, anger clear in his shaking voice. “Just try me, then! I’ll show you who’s weak!”

Gaara paused, considering him silently. Then, turning his gaze back toward Hinata one last time, he spoke quietly, his voice barely above a whisper, dangerous and cold.

“You and your ideals,” he said softly to Hinata, something dark and troubled flickering deep in his pale green eyes. “Next time…they won't save you. Remember that.”

Gaara moved silently toward Naruto, stopping beside him at the doorway. Naruto tensed, his entire body rigid, ready to react if Gaara made a single threatening move.

Gaara turned his head slightly toward Naruto. “You interrupted me and ruined my mood. But I’ll be generous today. I’ll let both of you live.” He paused, voice darkening. “But donot interfere again.”

Naruto swallowed, clearly shaken but determinedly holding his ground as Gaara moved past him. Gaara slipped silently through the doorway, his sand trailing ominously behind until finally, he disappeared from view.

The moment Gaara was gone, Naruto immediately turned toward Hinata, eyes wide with concern.

"Hinata!" Naruto rushed forward towards her bed side. "Are you okay? Did that creep hurt you?"

"N-no," Hinata stammered weakly, gripping Naruto’s sleeve instinctively for support. "I'm okay…really."

“What the heck was he doing here anyway?”

"I-I don’t really know," Hinata admitted softly, still trembling as she settled back. "He just appeared."

Naruto scowled deeply. “That guy…there's something really wrong with him.”

"N-Naruto-kun…why were you here?" she asked quietly, eager to distract herself.

"Sorry if I'm bothering you, Hinata," Naruto said sheepishly, giving her an embarrassed smile. "I was eating at Ichiraku's with Sakura-chan earlier. Kiba was there before we even arrived, actually." His nose wrinkled slightly, expression turning mildly irritated. "Sasuke was there too, but you know how he is. He was being an ass, as usual, and left early. Anyway, after everyone left, I stayed behind to talk to the old man who runs Ichiraku."

Hinata's heart faltered slightly at the way Naruto's voice softened with affection at Sakura’s name. She quickly dropped her gaze, attempting to hide the sting of disappointment that pricked at her chest. It wasn't as though it surprised her. Naruto's feelings for Sakura were never hidden, but the gentle tone he reserved solely for her still hurt. Her heart lifted a little, however, hearing that Kiba had been there too. At least it wasn't a private date. And though she wasn't surprised that Sasuke had left early, it did leave a faint pang of disappointment. She wished Sasuke wouldn't push others away so easily, but it was simply how he had always been.

Naruto shrugged, continuing quickly, seemingly oblivious to her quiet reaction. "Anyway, after Ichiraku's, I figured I should check on Bushy Brows. Lee," he clarified, laughing slightly. "And then I decided to stop by and see how you were doing."

At those words, Hinata felt warmth creeping into her cheeks once more. "O-oh, um, thank you, Naruto-kun. I'm doing much better now…"

Naruto's expression shifted into something softer, more genuine. "I'm glad to hear that. You know…I was actually really worried about you."

Hinata's eyes widened in surprise at his admission. Her stomach twisted uncomfortably as guilt surfaced. Naruto must have seen her as weak after the way she lost so pathetically. Lowering her head slightly, she murmured softly, "I-I'm sorry for worrying you."

Naruto immediately waved his hands in front of him, shaking his head quickly. "No, Hinata, don't apologize! It wasn't your fault at all." He hesitated briefly, blue eyes warm and earnest as he met her gaze. "Actually, I wanted to tell you…I thought you were really cool in that fight. Honestly, I had no idea you were that strong."

Hinata stared at him, speechless. Heat surged across her cheeks at the unexpected praise, and she found herself stammering out, "S-Strong…? Y-you really think so, Naruto-kun?"

Naruto nodded firmly, a soft flush coloring his own cheeks as he glanced away shyly. "Yeah, of course I do. I really mean it."

A gentle smile curved her lips, warmth blooming pleasantly in her chest. "That…that means a lot coming from you."

Naruto blinked at her words, clearly startled. An awkward cough escaped his lips as he quickly shifted the conversation. "S-so anyway! Uh…I also heard that Sasuke's been here visiting you a lot."

Hinata blinked, confused by the sudden change in topic. Her voice came out more bluntly than she intended. "Yes, he has. What about it?"

Naruto scratched his cheek sheepishly, his voice awkward yet curious. "Ah, nothing, really. It’s just, Sasuke doesn't exactly seem like the caring type, you know? I was just kinda surprised."

Hinata offered Naruto a small, slightly sad smile. "I understand why you'd think that. Sasuke-kun isn't very open about things, but he's actually a very caring person." Her cheeks tinted softly pink as she admitted quietly, "He…he's always been there for me, ever since we were little kids."

Naruto's eyes widened in amazement, blinking rapidly as if trying to process this revelation. Eventually, he laughed lightly, shaking his head in wonder. "Man, you must really be a saint to put up with that teme for so long, Hinata!"

She giggled, feeling a bit of tension lift away. "It’s not really that bad. He's a good friend once you get to know him." She watched Naruto carefully, noting his lingering curiosity. Perhaps deep down, Naruto truly did want Sasuke's friendship, but she sensed it was difficult for him to admit openly, whether from shyness or pride.

Naruto's expression shifted slightly, briefly thoughtful, before a wide grin stretched across his face again. "You're really nice, Hinata," he admitted warmly, sincerity shining in his eyes. "But seriously—if Sasuke ever acts like a jerk to you, just let me know. I'll beat him up for you!"

Hinata laughed softly, warmth and joy blossoming inside her chest at Naruto's protectiveness. "Thank you, Naruto-kun. But I promise, Sasuke-kun isn't as bad as you think."

Naruto gave her a playful thumbs-up, grinning brightly. "Well, if you say so. But the offer stands!"

Hinata opened her mouth to respond, but a familiar voice cut through the moment, cool and edged with irritation.

"What are you doing here?"

Hinata and Naruto both turned sharply toward the doorway. Sasuke stood leaning casually against the frame, dark eyes narrowed slightly as they fixed pointedly on Naruto.

"Sasuke-kun…" Hinata murmured softly, concern immediately creasing her brow as she noticed the faint circles beneath his eyes. She puffed her cheeks lightly, pouting at him with mild frustration. "I-I thought I told you to get some rest."

Sasuke scoffed lightly, pushing away from the doorway and stepping toward the other side of her bed across from Naruto. His expression softened just slightly when his gaze drifted down to her. "I already told you, I'm fine." His eyes flickered sharply back to Naruto then, narrowing once more with something faintly accusatory. "It's nice to see you decided to visit today."

Hinata blinked in confusion, not understanding the subtle implication behind Sasuke's words. However, she did notice how Naruto stiffened slightly, a flicker of embarrassment crossing his face before it quickly disappeared behind his usual grin.

Naruto laughed awkwardly, rubbing the back of his neck. "Heh, what's that supposed to mean, teme? Of course I'd come see Hinata!"

Hinata glanced curiously between the two boys, sensing an unusual tension she couldn’t quite pinpoint. Sasuke said nothing further, simply holding Naruto's gaze, his expression carefully blank.

She tilted her head slightly, watching the quiet standoff. Whatever had sparked Sasuke's mood, she hoped it wouldn't escalate. Not here, and not now.

Naruto turned back to her with a softer smile. "Anyway, Hinata, you should get plenty of rest yourself. When you get out, I'll treat you to ramen. It’ll be my way of cheering you up!"

Hinata felt her blush deepen as she nodded quickly. "I-I'd like that, Naruto-kun."

Naruto flashed her a bright, confident grin. "Great! I'll see you later, then." He glanced briefly at Sasuke, adding a begrudging, "See ya, Sasuke," before quickly leaving the room.

Hinata stared after Naruto, feeling somewhat dazed. Had that just really happened? Her heart fluttered with excitement and happiness.

Sasuke suddenly scoffed beside her, low and sharp, snapping her attention back to him. His scowl had deepened, jaw tense, brows drawn low in irritation. His eyes hadn’t moved from the now-empty doorway, narrowed in a glare that could cut steel.

Hinata blinked, startled. His whole posture radiated agitation, and he didn’t even seem to notice. He was glaring so hard, she was certain if Naruto had stayed another second, Sasuke might’ve actually started a fight right there beside her hospital bed.

“S-Sasuke-kun?” she asked softly, cautiously. Her voice was laced with concern, though she kept it light. “Is…everything okay?”

Sasuke turned sharply back to her, the deep lines between his brows still prominent. His voice came out harsher than he probably intended, sharp and slightly defensive. "I'm fine. Why?"

Hinata tilted her head slightly, observing him closely. The scowl still hadn’t faded, dark eyes stormy and clouded. Deciding to test him gently, a playful spark rose within her chest. She reached out, softly poking him in the stomach with a gentle finger. "Your face says otherwise."

Sasuke flinched visibly, eyes widening in surprise at her sudden touch. His scowl deepened, embarrassment quickly coloring his cheeks a faint shade of pink. Instinctively, he covered the spot she'd touched, glaring down at her accusingly.

Scowl still firmly in place, he muttered under his breath, “I was fine until just now.”

Hinata giggled, biting the inside of her cheek to suppress a full laugh. Sasuke crossed his arms and looked away, his expression dark, but his eyes had lost that hard edge, softening just slightly. She watched as he walked around to sit down in the chair beside her bed, crossing his arms over his chest and looking away with a stubborn pout.

She thought about telling him that Gaara came, but decided against it. Sasuke already had so much on his plate, she didn’t want to worry him any further. Instead she shifted. “W-Where are you coming from?”

Sasuke remained quiet for a moment, his eyes fixed somewhere distant. "I trained with Kakashi. I’m still not strong enough. I have to get stronger," he admitted. "I can't let what happened during the preliminaries happen again. I need to be ready. I need to beat him."

Hinata didn't have to ask who 'him' was. She knew. Itachi. Sasuke's pain and determination always revolved around his older brother. It was something that burdened him constantly, shadowing every choice he made.

"Sasuke-kun," Hinata whispered softly, carefully reaching out and resting her fingertips lightly against his arm. "You’re already very strong. But I-I understand wanting to become stronger. After the preliminaries, I…feel the same way."

Sasuke finally turned to look at her again, his expression softening as he took in her gaze. Hinata hesitated briefly before quietly continuing, her voice thick with emotion.

"I've been…thinking ever since I woke up earlier," she confessed quietly, looking down at her lap. "I lost so badly…and I was so embarrassed. It was in front of everyone, my team, my teacher, Naruto-kun…and you. I-I felt like maybe my father was right. That I'm worthless and weak."

"Hinata—" Sasuke started sharply, but she quickly shook her head, gently silencing him as she continued.

"But today Naruto-kun referred to me as being strong. He reminded me that I shouldn't give up. That I can keep pushing forward. And it made me realize…I-I want to train harder too. So…let's make another promise." She shyly held out her pinky toward him. "Let's promise to get stronger. We'll support each other and reach our goals. Together."

Sasuke stared at her outstretched pinky, something unreadable in his dark eyes. But after a moment, a rare smile softened his lips. He lifted his hand, carefully linking his pinky with hers, squeezing gently. "I promise."

Hinata felt warmth blossom within her chest. "I promise too."

As their hands slowly parted, Sasuke's face turned serious again. "Hinata," he started quietly, "you're not weak. You never were. But the one annoying thing about you is how you always talk down to yourself and second-guess your abilities. Stop listening to what your father says."

She flinched slightly at his blunt words, her smile fading as her gaze dropped again. "It's…hard not to. I've heard it all my life, ever since I was kidnapped. It's become part of me."

Shortly after her kidnapping, her father placed her under vigorous training. Unfortunately, she hasn’t been living up to his standards like Hanabi.

Sasuke scowled at her words, his voice gentle yet firm. "Then I'll just have to help you stop believing it."

Hinata's eyes widened slightly in surprise, heart swelling with gratitude. Sasuke looked away sharply, his cheeks tinged with embarrassment.

"You always know what to say, Sasuke-kun," Hinata murmured, smiling softly again.

Sasuke sighed, his gaze drifting back toward the window. "You say such troublesome things," he muttered, voice softening with fondness.

She giggled softly, warmth filling her heart once more. She understood his words. It was Sasuke’s way of saying he cared.

Hinata's eyelids started feeling heavy again, exhaustion beginning to creep up on her once more. She leaned back against the pillow, fighting back a yawn. Sasuke noticed immediately, turning toward her with quiet concern.

He gently reached out, carefully taking the tray from her hands and setting it on the bedside table. "Rest," he said gently, standing from the chair. "I'll come back tomorrow."

Hinata nodded slowly, eyelids growing heavier. "Thank you, Sasuke-kun…for everything."

He paused at her bedside, looking down at her with a rare, soft expression. Slowly, he reached out, gently placing his hand on top of her head, briefly ruffling her dark hair. "Sleep well, Hinata."

As he turned and quietly left the room, Hinata settled back into the pillow, a small, contented smile lingering on her lips. Even with all the pain and doubts, she knew she'd be alright.