Sweet Dispositions

-Chapter 41-
Card Games

The first thing they did was enter the hospital. Hinata walked with purpose as she roamed the hallways. Someina was behind her. She will not tolerate any of their attitudes anymore. They passed the pit, supply closets and a generous amount of hurt shinobi and doctors alike.

"Natsukawa Momo?" A doctor with draped clothing and cinnamon brown hair cried out.

Her name- no, not her name has been called.

The clipboard the peckish girl carried dropped as she swung her lithe body to crash into Hinata.

Oh Kanebi.

Kanebi... corrects her posture every time she saw Hinata. She seemed to only have drivels coming out her mouth and doted on her every move.

Someina jumped back when she saw the medical-nin she recognized from Kumogakure. "Kanebi Elizabeth? What are you doing in Konoha?" Someina asked.

Hinata allowed her former student to hug her tightly.

Kanebi always seemed to drop things around Hinata. Her cheeks had the evidence of a flush and she never missed the chance to scrub in with Hinata during lectures, surgeries or actual showers Hinata took in her workplace. She always wanted to please Hinata, in whatever way possible, even when her personality took a flirty twist.

Completely ignoring Someina, Elizabeth looked to Hinata. "Oh! Natsukawa-sama! Sensei! Thank goodness you are here! We have so many surgeries you need to direct these Konoha children in. Besides, this place is so foreign and I miss being taught by you,"

Hinata smiled kindly, pulling back from the hug that lasted too long. "Elizabeth-chan... dear, I am not here... for any consults or meetings, I am here for vacation,"

Elizabeth's eyelids fluttered when they made eye-contact and she was still way too close. "After your house burnt down... I understand. Change the landscape and get around for a while. Has Konoha been treating you well?"

Hinata didn't know if she should grin and bear the pain of Konoha or be truthful and break down into sobs. She couldn't do either of them. She had to be strong in front of these people. She squared her shoulders and stood up taller.

"Well enough, Elizabeth-chan," Hinata answered.

Not catching onto Hinata's false notes, Elizabeth sang on, happily. "It's always a joy to have you in any OR. Someina-kohai! It's nice to see you under the tutelage of your sensei! You're so lucky," she said and picked up the clipboard.

Someina smiled in a strained way. "How were you allowed outside of Kumo?" Someina asked, getting annoyed by the girl's everlasting cheery disposition.

Elizabeth got happier. "At least one medical-nin accompanied all the Kages. If the Kage were on a deathbed, he wanted someone from his village, whom he could trust, to save him. You were not there, so I was chosen and C went as a bodyguard, as well," she chirped.

Hinata nodded, changing the subject. "Hey, Elizabeth- can you do me a favor?"

"Anything for you, Natsukawa-senpai!" Her auburn hair flipped as she leaned in. Her voice took a lower, more serious baritone. "I mean it, anything,"

Hinata cleared her throat. "Uh. Please, would you direct me to Uzumaki Sakura's hospital room? I have some important things to talk to about with her,"

The student froze, her green eyes darting all over Hinata's ches. She held the clipboard over her mouth, so her words were muted. "Natsukawa-sama- I don't know if I should. I heard rumors that you were the one who put the almighty woman in the hospital. Which is totally awesome... and impressive, 'cause you're impressive but still I could get information about it, alright?"

"I appreciate it, Kanebi," Hinata said.

She scurried off. "She's eager," Someina commented as soon as Kanebi was gone.

Hinata nodded.

"I'm surprised she didn't ask you for a kiss. Milady, she's in love with you," Someina said.

Hinata shook her head, laughing. "It's puppy love. Weren't you like that with Mitsuyo when you were younger?"

"Yeah but I don't put up pictures of Mitsuyo up in my cubbies in the intern's locker room," Someina snorted.

Hinata waved her annoying words away. "A) it's... intense puppy love, b) it'll pass and c) it's normal to appreciate womanly figures who impress you,"

Someina didn't seem too convinced but dropped it. "About your friends... why didn't you just use your byakugan?" Someina asked.

"I don't want to see them more than I have to," Hinata said.

Someina cracked a weak smile as she nodded in understanding.

Kanebi came back and Hinata smiled graciously at Elizabeth. Kanebi nearly melted. They were promptly directed to Sakura's room. The door opened and three senbon came in Hinata's direction.

Hinata immediately summoned her sword and sliced through them. "It's just me," Hinata said.

Without much glee, the rest eased up. Slightly. As the needles tumbled to the ground, Hinata looked at Sakura, unimpressed.

Sakura laid on her bed. Crowded beside Sakura's bed, the lovely Ino and another woman she didn't recognize were together.

Hinata observed the scene with a neutral gaze. Indifference. Someina immediately drew her sword and Hinata gestured for her to lower it.

"Pacifists, remember?" Hinata whispered as she unsummoned her own sword.

In her time, Sakura and Ino were nothing but voluble. Now they were as quiet as a temple mouse.

Someina sighed, lowering her weapon as Hinata settled at the edge of the room.

Hinata looked at the woman who had a fan strapped to her back. A wind-user. Interesting. She's probably long-range fighter and she has no idea who Hinata is so that is a bonus.

Her hair was tied up, parted in four ways atop of her head. She was quite taller than the rest of them with longer limbs. Her skin was obviously sun-browned and she was stoic, not looking scandalized as the rest of her former friends did.

Hinata comes in peace. As mercurial things are, their choices can change Sakura's fate.

She saw the looks on their faces. None of them were impressed by this. By her. What is she doing here? She should be with her kids and Mitsuyo...

Hinata just nodded. She read the feel of the room. "Perhaps I should go," she whispered.

Ino's eyebrows nearly jumped off of her face, reaching her hairline. "After what you've done- you will leave Sakura like this? Ill and frail?" Ino gasped.

"Uzumaki-san struck me. I was merely defending myself. If it meant disabling her strength then so be it," Hinata said. "It would have been no different had I been versing another opponent,"

"You're the woman who gave Sakura the seal that's killing her," the blonde woman clad in purple yelled out. "You got a lot of nerve to come here. I do not tolerate people who hurt those dear to me,"

"I do not either. In that way, we are the same," Hinata told her.

The woman batted her eye. "You are not on my level,"

"Don't look down on her," Someina said.

"I will! She's beneath me because I do not hurt my friends," the sand woman said.

"All of us. No, the rest of you are and I are not friends! Yamanaka-san said I was dead to her and Uzumaki-san won't look at me in the eye," Hinata said, coldly. "Tell me, is this friendship?"

Hinata stared at the other women in the tense atmosphere. It used to be mellow and happy. Now, look at them... Hinata sighed, realizing that the Uchiha are somewhat of harbingers.

After not eliciting a response from the blonde sand woman, Hinata turned to Sakura. "Sakura, your damage could have been much worse," Hinata hissed.

Someina nodded. Hinata only used two senbon and a seal. Imagine if Hinata used her other affinities or Jikishi no jutsu or even her better Fuinjutsu seals.

"Is that a threat?" The woman asked, reaching for her fan.

Hinata shrugged. "No,"

In other words, Hinata just wants them to show some respect. It's a brand new type of seal. If it's made by her, no one can get it off. If they get a headstart of about a month, then yes, maybe.

Changing the subject, Hinata spoke quietly. "Have the members of your Konohagakure Cryptology team members managed to release it?"

Ino opened her mouth and Hinata shook her head. "Do not say that I am incapable of releasing a simple seal, Yamanaka-san. If one insult about my strength leaves your mouth, then I will never speak to you again,"

Ino closed her mouth. She will show Ino her strength with a punch. Weapons. Loose metal. Summoning one of her animals. An endless world of byakugan tricks or her blade. She's really liking the idea.

She cleared her throat and stared at the other women. "I tried to be nice and you all spit in my face. Returning to Konoha was my dream until now. Five years of staying in a land that wasn't really your birthplace dampen the spirit. I couldn't say 'hi,' to my friends, I couldn't have a safe place to raise my children and my sister has grown into a fine woman without me to guide her, as her sister,"

"Why would we be nice? You came back with Uchiha Sasuke and lied to us for five years! And you left Sakura in this state," Ino protested.

Hinata just rolled her eyes. "If you would shut up for at least five seconds then I would have told you what really happened from the start and you would not have acted like rude ladies," Hinata hissed.

"Don't tell me to shut up! What's so important that made you have to leave?" Ino said.

"Lots of things. You are a contributing factor, Yamanaka-san," Hinata huffed.

"Me?" Ino pointed to herself.

"Yes! But not everything is about you, Yamanaka-san," Hinata said, exasperated.

Ino seemed particularly depressed at that then played with a strand of platinum hair.

"You cannot deny what's clear to my eyes- Konoha has moved on without me. You all have moved on without me," Hinata said.

The wind woman scoffed. "No. What did you put in that seal? It's disrupting her chakra flow and she's weak now,"

"Yeah! Tell me," Ino said.

Oh. Ino... she wants to speak to me, the delusional virgin woman who does a trend of genin-level work? That's peculiar, Hinata thought.

Hinata sighed and gestured to the seal and snapped her fingers. The seal came undone and Hinata used her byakugan. "Hm. You've lost more chakra than I expected, Uzumaki Sakura-san,"

Sakura coughed and Hinata tossed a pill to her. Sakura caught it, inspecting the green piece of medicine. After rolling it around in her hand a couple of times, Sakura sniffed it.

"It's scented," Sakura noted, aloud.

"What is that?" The sand woman asked.

Hinata felt proud enough to explain at her work. "A specialized version of your military ration pill or whatever. It's tiny and flavored," Hinata shared. "It has more minerals and vitamins,"

Hinata thought Sakura would like it. Sakura frowned.

"Sakura, don't take it. How do we know it's not poison?" The wind woman asked.

"You are ridiculous, lady of the sand," Hinata huffed. "I don't know you but I do not like you, already,"

Someina sent a pointed look to Ino. "Milady is above poisoning or drugging people she engaged with," Someina said with a haughty tone. "Unlike some people we know,"

"You know what-" Ino yelled.

"Silence, both of you," Hinata said. Summoning another version of the pill, Hinata showed them the medicine and swallowed it. "Happy? It's safe,"

Nice to know we still have some semblance of trust in the air. Sakura just placed the pill on the bedside table, panting with the simple action. Someina scowled.

"I see how it is," Hinata said. This abasement... was unpleasant.

"You are all obviously upset about my absence but if you are willing to have a sit down about what happened, then I will tell all at a teahouse meet. Someina shall give you the address should you decide to show in a week from now,"

"What will happen if we don't go?" Sakura asked.

Frankly, Hinata is quite hesitant to show them any kindness or hospitality considering their heinous attitudes. Maybe she is dumb for doing this. Trying. Perhaps I am a fool when it comes to them all, Hinata thought sullenly.

"I will return to my home, with my kids, away from you guys," Hinata said.

"Why don't you save us the trouble and leave now?" The wind woman said.

"Maybe I will. You should save Konoha the trouble- nevermind," Hinata faltered off, something else gaining her attention. Hinata eyed the bandana on the table. It seems to have a Kumogakure style.

"Have any of you traveled to Kumo recently?" Someina said, noticing the bandana too.

Sakura shook her head. Ino was about to answer then Someina interrupted. "Let me guess, you never go out because it ruins your oh-so-precious hair, princess?"

Ino gasped. "Insult her again and I'll throw you through a wall," Sakura told Someina.

"Kumogakure and that surrounding area rains too often. It's a swamp with pointy mountains," the usually reticent woman said.

"It is not a swamp... It's on the coastline of a warm sea, overlooking a peninsular zone," Hinata said. The wind woman seemed unimpressed by her attitude. All mountains are sharp. A thing that woman doesn't have in common with them.

"That headband... is familiar... where is it from?" Someina said.

The wind woman looked at Someina. "That belongs to Akimichi Karui. Don't steal it,"

"Don't accuse her of stealing," Hinata said.

Hinata got a migraine. Is she in Konoha? Did she marry an Akimichi? Hinata shook her head. This room is contaminated. Maybe this entire hospital. The wind woman just watched her so much more carefully.

"What's your problem with Karui?" The wind woman asked, speculative.

All the taste she had in her mouth soured and Hinata curled her toes, wondering where she'll find the bloody bitch.

Hinata cracked her neck, tilting from side to side. "We have... a long history together," Hinata said. "Not all good,"

"I don't like a liar. Where did you come from?" The woman with the fan asked. "More importantly, why have you come back, causing trouble?"

"I didn't invade Konoha, wind-user. On top of that, I do not answer the questions of strangers," Hinata asked. "You do look familiar, though,"

"Temari's the name, Hyuuga," The wind woman- no, Temari said with steely, cold eyes.

"Well, Temari. I do not cause trouble. I wanted to resort to calmer, more peaceful methods until Sakura began swinging at me," Hinata said accusingly. "I don't take getting attacked too lightly, either, Temari. Ino slapped me and Sakura swung at me,"

"I didn't think it would take much get you down," Ino scoffed. "Turns out, I was-"

Hinata threw four senbon at Ino. It was only Sakura's quick hands that saved her. Sakura pulled a metal tray from the bedside table and held it in front of Ino's face, intercepting the senbon.

"Shut up, Ino," Hinata said. "Someina. We are off,"

Someina nodded. Hinata turned around and headed for the door. Before she could leave, she looked over her shoulder. Her soul called out to them all. A saudade feeling. Alas, that feeling is no more. They're on the boat of sinking friendships. Hinata sighed.

Someina and Hinata went out and shut the door behind her.

¤¤¤

Mitsuyo's nightmare-black hair was sprawled all over the pillow and she sank into the folds of the blanket.

Mitsuyo was still unconscious, breathing unlaboured. She had a concentrated look on her narrow face, lips slightly parted. It's like she fell asleep during a nasty remark, wanting to say something. She laid on a hospital bed with cuts and scrapes that weren't too pretty. At least she looked peaceful. She was wrapped up, though.

She was breathing deeply as if sleeping rather than in a shallow way. It calmed Hinata.

Aside from the clamourous outside world noise, the sounds between the bodyguard and the Hyuuga were minimal.

Someina reached out for Mitsuyo's hand then retracted as if deciding against the gentle action. "I'm sorry, Mitsuyo," Someina whispered to Mitsuyo.

Hinata offered a questioning glance to Someina. "For what?"

Someina didn't reply. She just drowned in sin, looking guilty. "Rasengans... are powerful... That bastard is powerful," Someina said.

They are powerful. Hinata wished Naruto wasn't strong, suddenly. Hinata used to dream of Naruto rushing up to her. Now all she wants is nothing more but to be alone, for him to run in the other direction.

Someina just clutched her fists together and huffed. "The next time I see that Naruto punk... I swear I will just beat him till he's inert. Hurting Mitsuyo- what the hell?!"

"He didn't mean to," Hinata said, feeling the sharp glare of Someina on the side of her face.

"You're defending him?!" Someina yelled.

Hinata shook her head. "The Rasengan- it was meant for me. He was supposed to hurt me more than he already has," Hinata whispered sullenly. "She was never supposed to be involved,"

"Were you really ever going to let Naruto train your kids? Let him father your kids since you were so in love with him?!"

"Do not judge my childish whims, Someina. I was dumb and he was my hero. We have heroes that aren't who they seem to be,"

Or they are what they seem to be and Hinata doesn't want that.

Someina was more annoyed by her answer. "Why did you let him hug you like that, then? He's dangerous and I can't believe you are so lenient with him,"

"I am not lenient, Someina," Hinata scoffed. "You are in love with Ryouta though he might have never even existed!"

"I am in love with people who save me. He's not my imaginary friend," Someina said. "Ryouta... kept me alive and you have Sasuke. You're his sword, you know? The one weapon he's damn obsessed with and you want to throw that all away? Milady... please be careful around Naruto, cherish Sasuke,"

Grinding her teeth didn't keep her anger at bay. Her nails dug into the soft flesh of her palms.

She isn't going to give up Sasuke for Naruto! She won't cheat. Why was she implying that? It gave Hinata anxiety and her gaze was tinted red. Is that what Someina thinks about Sasuke? An almighty savior whose purpose is to save her?

"I really do not like who your sailor is, Someina," Hinata said. "Despite that, Mitsuyo would be upset at us fighting,"

Also tense, Someina's gaze fell on her shoes. "It's much too humid to fight," Someina shrugged.

Yes. It's the humidity.

¤¤¤

Poor Mitsuyo.

"So... what do you want to make for dinner?" Someina asked. "The kids feel homesick and I wanna include something with... sugar and fish? What... would you like to do?"

Hinata didn't answer, instead, she leaned down and pushed the covers of Mitsuyo's blanket under her chin. Hinata gave Mitsuyo one-eighth of her chakra, hoping to heal her a bit. She kissed Mitsuyo's forehead.

Hinata just sighed then turned away from the green-haired woman. "I'm taking another walk, collect my thoughts,"

"What?"

"Prepare dinner... yourself," she clarified.

Hinata was already out of the nearest window, leaving the green-headed girl with a lowered mouth and an offended expression. Hinata just went to take another walk.

It was a few hours after the whole debacle with Naruto. Hinata was still out, doing whatever and Sasuke brooded in his wounds for a while as well. They've been arguing a lot more recently. They always are so... perfect, it's kind of gross but perfect people find other perfect people, Someina guesses.

Sasuke's wounds were relatively healed so he moved around, playing with the kids and hiding the bandages so they wouldn't get worried. The twins fell asleep and the boys were too hyper and sad about not being able to watch the match. They've never watched a huge event like this.

Kumogakure never really had them. They didn't watch the chunin exams often, either. This was crushing them, so Sasuke decided to cheer them up in a very Sasuke way.

He's admirable. Very much so.

After Taiyo, Benjiro, and Sasuke finished playing a lengthy game of go-ishi, the kids, as promised would get ice cream if they came somewhat close to winning. Someina knew that the kids would get ice cream anyway because Sasuke was just like that. Sweet in subtle ways.

The two boys got ready, without her help, this time because she would stay at home with the twins. The twins usually slept for a long time and she didn't wake them. Sasuke will just get them something lighter and healthier or Hinata would have fit.

Sasuke cleaned up the go-ishi pieces and stared at Someina when she sat across from him at the small table. "Can I ask you a question?" she said.

Sasuke just scoffed. "Che. Scar. You just did. If you have a question- just ask it,"

"Okay," she winced. "You sure?"

Sasuke groaned as if he were in chronic pain. "Yeah. I'm sure,"

"Okay. Okay. Fine," she said. Here goes, like, nothing. "You know how the past isn't through with us?"

Sasuke inaudibly nodded.

"Orochimaru. Despite Mitsuyo having an affair with Orochimaru and you being under his tutelage, what made you both do things for him? Why serve him if he was so bad?"

"Ah. Familiarity tries. Gotta love 'em," Sasuke said in a lily-sweet tone.

"Do you?" Someina asked.

"No," he deadpanned. Her heart fell but he wouldn't notice. Ever. "Well. The first thing to know about Orochimaru is only there when you need something. Like water when dehydrated. Like food when starving. Like power when weak. The people who want something are desperate and he knows desperation better than anyone,"

"Like sugar or honey when the tea is... awfully bitter," Someina concluded.

Sasuke chuckled and looked at Someina for a long time, longer than she is used to. "That's something Hinata would say but yes. Like that,"

Someina stayed quiet, mulling over that. She didn't seem too desperate about it. Her sister died like seven years ago. She had time to be angry. She had time to cry. She had time to want to die. She got over it. How did Orochimaru even know?

Sasuke seemed thoughtful as he pondered over her question. He didn't just dismiss her like he usually would. He's either happier than usual or just... lonely since he and Hinata are fighting. She would be good company if he let her.

"If you need an analogy... one so happy that isn't going to scare you away..." Sasuke said, thinking for a moment. He nodded then launched into an explanation. "He comes in a time in need. When you have no other options. Imagine you as the bee, looking for a flower to pollinate. A goal to bloom. He's the flower, all pretty, lively and beneficial. Then... for a while, at least, he is nourishing and you get addicted to the guidance and profits of this seemingly... helpful man. Then, when you least expect it, the ground opens, swallows the bee, the flower and the surrounding area up into darkness. That's what Orochimaru is,"

"The flower?" Someina asked hopefully.

"No- weren't you listening to me?" Sasuke grumbled, shooting a dirty look to Someina. "Idiot- he's the abyss he pulls you into. The black world, trapped with no other place to go,"

"Oh. Then why do people go for his help?" Someina asked.

"Power. That's all people want. That's why they take the risk. That's why I took the risk,"

"He gave you power," Someina whispered. Will Orochimaru give her power or just sadness and empty promises?

"Yes. But I gave my soul away to achieve it. The sacrifice wasn't worth it. I didn't even get my goal,"

"What was your goal?"

Sasuke looked uncomfortable. "Too many questions, Ikeda,"

"What if he'll give you something real? I mean, power is an illusion,"

"Then it's a lie. He only does something so he could use it for his convenience," Sasuke told her bluntly.

"How would he have used your strength?" Someina queried. How will he use... hers? Someina doesn't really have strength. She has nothing to offer.

"Shift the tides of war. Use me as a vessel. I had to be strong enough. Capable of doing his jutsu and my body was perfect,"

"Oh, my kami. I didn't know," Someina gasped.

"You don't know a lot of things," Sasuke said. "If he will give you something, expect him to take more than you'll ever get,"

"I was wondering about Orochimaru because he's in Konoha. He also has a relation to you, which isn't very good for Hinata. I just want to protect the kids from what everyone who doesn't really like you or the Hyuuga,"

Sasuke seemed to buy the excuse because it was partially true. She was at a crossroad. She couldn't not... get her sister back. She couldn't also kill Hinata and the Kokoro woman. It was a struggle between accepting and hating the past and present.

Which one did she love more? She didn't know. She was ladened with this. The coin Orochimaru gave her was heavy in her pocket and burned against her skin like the sun.

Sasuke watched her for a while then flexed a brow upwards. "You good?" Sasuke asked.

She looked up. "Sort of," she said in a hushed tone. She didn't elaborate.

Sasuke shrugged, "If you want to, tell me about it. If you don't want to talk, we'll drink rum,"

"You'd do that for me?" Someina asked.

"Why not? You'd save my mother's portrait. The least I can do is help you," Sasuke said.

And he'd jump into a flame for her. She doesn't understand why Hinata would choose anyone other than a lackadaisical Sasuke. He's very dreamy. He's lazy and careless but in a dreamy way.

She looked away. "Yeah, we'll drink,"

He nodded before leaving.

¤¤¤

The activity Hinata liked the most was sitting on top of a train they caught and riding, wind through her hair. Her favorite pass time was being in the thick, fragrant pine trees, having a picnic miles above the ground.

She missed it. She felt free, unjudged and happy. Sasuke would hold her waist as they'd practically soar through the forest. He called her delusional... Now... she's in this predicament.

Hinata sighed. Coming home, she took off her shoes and hung her cloak. Thinking about the day, she wrote a journal entry to Hanabi like she always did.

Sasuke was wrapped up in bandages but he came hobbling over to her in the quaint living room. His chest was bare but wrapped with bandages and he wore sweatpants, taking it easy after all the wounds he attained.

Looking pained, Sasuke had a pack of cards and he chuckled when he came across from her at the small table she was seated at. Her knees were neatly folded under her as she dipped the feather into the ink. She just ignored him and continued on, scroll writing.

"I see... you do not want to talk to me," he said slowly.

She made a non-committal noise.

Continuing on, he said; "The kids and I had to order takeout. Mitsuyo wasn't here to cook and Someina didn't feel like it. It's been a while since we've never had you home at dinnertime. You skipped it. The kids felt the loss and I have a feeling that you were missing 'cause of me,"

Fed up and miffed, Hinata offered him a blank look and focused on her craft.

"I know. I know. You won't speak, yeah. I didn't come to speak either," Sasuke told her. "I came here to play cards,"

Hinata just shook her head and started getting up, prepping to leave. She's not doing this. Sasuke grabbed her arm, the movement was so quick that it agitated his wounds.

"Sasuke! Be careful, don't do that," Hinata warned him, watching the patches of red bloom over his skin.

"So, you still care about me, ocha," Sasuke said, a genuine smile spreading on his lips.

"Hmph," Hinata shrugged while cutting off his bloodied bandages from his arms and bare chest.

Hinata sat down after placing leaves on his wounds that would cease the bruising and reduce the swelling. He seemed appreciative and commented idly while she applied the medicine.

"I thought you'd just let me bleed out, here. Alone and sleepless in Konoha," he said like he really believed that.

She slapped the side of his head as if to say, idiot.

When she was satisfied with her work and the lack of blood, she reverted to her old spot with her scroll paper. He tapped on her hands and pushed away all the work.

"Come on, ocha. When was the last time we played a game of cards? During your pregnancy, you'd love this. You won, yes... a lot," Sasuke grouched.

Hinata suppressed a groan.

"Do me a favor and play this game of cards? Come on, if you don't play who's gonna put up with me?"

Hinata just sighed and nodded. "Fine,"

"Oh. There's a word. Not an extant word... but a word," he said, though she knew he was repressing a smile.

About a few minutes later, the cards were set up and they were playing goldfish. Sasuke didn't cheat and Hinata stayed quiet, gazing at her cards.

"It's rare but I never feel the need to complain about you. To other people. Our fights- we resolve them and we apologize. Make nice," Sasuke said, sending quick looks to Hinata. "Uh, we've been walking on egg-shells and I can't take it anymore. Tell me what's on your mind, explain not explode,"

"If I talk... I'll explode. Not explain," Hinata said.

Sasuke responded sharply. "You're being infuriating,"

"Me? Try living with you for a day,"

"Let it all out. I don't want any lies,"

"Lies?! Sasuke- it's your fault that we're in this mess. You lied to me for five years about this. How can I talk to you about something you think is right? Is justified? I thought we talked about these things, Sasuke. This is not okay. Everyone is mad at me and they buried me beside, beside Neji and all my friends hate me,"

Sasuke balled up his fist. "It was right at the time. I needed to keep you safe and this was the way to do it. Your pregnancy was already stressful enough with the DCA, the threats from the Raikage and the shutting you away,"

Hinata sighed in a frustrated way. "Can you at least feel guilty? Have some remorse... something that looks like guilt,"

"I am guilty. I put you in a place of pain," Sasuke admitted.

Hinata felt a bit better. Perhaps he was right. She kept her gaze focused on the cards and had to ask. "Why did you and Naruto get into it? Why'd he hit you?"

Sasuke hesitated, looking like he wouldn't answer. "I let him. He was going to be pissed at me one way or another,"

"How did he even know about the pregnancy?" Hinata wondered aloud.

In a split second, an acidic tone was let out from his lips. He scoffed, with a scowl on his face. "What does it matter that he knows?" he snapped.

"I just want-"

He interrupted her, already mad about multiple things. "It wouldn't have changed the fact that you're with me, for five years and we have a life together. Would you rather the twins be his? Are you ashamed that they're mine?"

Hinata just gasped. "That's what you think?! That I want his kids? Him," she whispered.

He nodded, giving her a glare. "All the women of divide their legs for him, so it seems obvious,"

Her eyes burnt, stinging with the threat of tears. "No. A thousand times over no. Oh, my kami. I have- to leave for ten minutes. Don't talk to me for like ten minutes,"

She sat up and waltzed to the bathroom. She is fuming! Why is everyone like this?! She wants to punch a wall or throw up. He- unsurprisingly- followed her. All the while, looking melancholic. She almost closed the door on his face but she wanted to hear what he would say- to redeem himself.

He just looked a little lost, a little insecure and sad. "I don't get it. With Naruto. The looks. The ointment. The damn hug. I thought you were with me,"

"I am with you! You're an idiot, Uchiha Sasuke. An idiot!" Hinata said and slammed the door.

She heard knocks on the door. Using the playing cards, he slid one under the door. Hinata pushed it out. He pushed it back in and Hinata flipped it over.

Do you have a thing for motel bathrooms?
-Uchiha Sasuke

After skimming over the text, Hinata tore the card in half. "Hardy, har, har. Go away," Hinata told him through the barrier of the door.

Sasuke let out a frustrated sigh. "You ripped it up, didn't you? You know we'll have to get a new pack. Because playing cards without all the cards isn't... fun,"

"Who cares about the bloody cards?! Go away,"

For nearly ten minutes, Hinata listened to Sasuke breathe through the paper-thin walls.

He sounded like he would leave her alone. "I'm going to bed. Meeting with Kakashi in the morning... Don't fall asleep, Hyuuga. There might be cockroaches," he warned.

Hinata scanned the relatively dirty washroom. She was terrified. There were no cockroaches. She banged on the bathroom door, where she knew Sasuke's head was on the other side. "Don't psyche me out, jerk. If you were here, I'd hit you, Uchiha-san. Really hard. Like hard,"

"I am here. You won't let me in,"

"Whose fault is that, Uchiha?"

"You still have claws, doncha? Can I join you?"

"Not in the bathroom," Hinata said half-heartedly. "You could join Madara in... I don't know- a bad place,"

"Hell?" Sasuke suggested with a small chuckle.

"No," Hinata shook her head. He doesn't deserve there.

"It's a hard pass. You wouldn't be there. Can't meet you up in heaven, ocha," Sasuke said honestly. "You can't just leave me out here,"

"Find a bed. Get comfy. I'm busy," Hinata huffed.

"Damn it, don't be difficult. No. Just... come out. I have some choice words to say,"

While losing some type of internal battle, she opened the door. "You can come in," Hinata said.

¤¤¤

10 minutes later.

Sasuke slumped against the closed door while Hinata leaned on the edge of a low-rise porcelain tub. Across from each other, silent. She just blinked at him through tears.

Sasuke heaved a heavy sigh. "I hate making you cry," he said.

"Then don't do it so often," Hinata grumbled.

"I try not to,"

She just tried not to say anything crabby. He tossed a handkerchief over to Hinata. She took deep breaths as she dabbed around her eyes. He took it back and stuffed it into his pocket.

He was still quite injured, she noticed. Breaking the tense silence, they spoke at the same time. Awkward.

Sasuke clammed up and looked at her in earnest, urging her to speak. "You go first," he said.

She couldn't swallow the lump in her throat. "How could you say that?" Hinata asked. Her voice cracked. "I... I don't know why you don't... believe me when I say I will be here, standing by your side. That you didn't waste my youth. This is the life I want, with you,"

"I know," he said.

"Then why do you doubt it?" Hinata asked quietly.

"It's easy to get jealous. I get jealous,"

Hinata couldn't understand. "Why?"

Sasuke drew another hard sigh. "I was so sure after the year of pregnancy passed and you had the child that you'd walk out of Kumogakure with all your tea recipes and books and just leave me for Naruto. I know- it's stupid but things were temporary for me. I've never had anything good in my life. I go to extreme and desperate measures to keep the good things. With Taichirou. With you. With the kids. I'm sorry that you got stuck with that part of me, Hinata. I really am. I'm sorry for what I did,"

Hinata shook her head. "You are the sunshine in my day and the moonlight of my nights, idiot. I stay for you, picked you," she said softly, looking at the half-moons on her nail-beds.

"I know," he replied dismally. He cleared his throat and continued. "I picked you too,"

He did, didn't he?

He eyed her carefully. "I'm sorry," he said.

"I'm sorry too..." Hinata said.

"You know, sometimes, it'd be nice if you looked at me like your hero,"

"You are," Hinata's words were interrupted by a chuckle or two. "and I do,"

"I wanted to hear you say it," he said honestly.

She rolled her eyes. "You have such a huge ego,"

"It's what makes me charming," Sasuke said.

"I'd only do multiplication... and adding new numbers to our family with you," she said quietly, bringing the conversation back to the subject of wanting Naruto's kids. She didn't and that is final.

"My math genius, eh?" Sasuke asked.

"Only your math genius," Hinata clarified.

Hinata's stretched out legs brushed against his. He tapped her ankle with his foot and Hinata returned the actions. After being silent and playing footsies, they began talking more.

"What happened with your father?" Sasuke asked seriously.

She buried her face in her hands before looking at him. "I spoke to my father today. It- is... it was oh Kami! It was awful!"

She gave him a rundown of the situation and he tried not going to the Hyuuga manor and bashing Hiashi's face in. "I'll light that place on fire one day, Hinata. I will," he promised.

Feeling the same, Hinata hung her head in shame. She'll probably give him the match. Honestly. She laughed a bit, feeling so heartbroken. Hanabi isn't even... in Konoha. Her second heart isn't even in Konoha. Kiba and Shino aren't there. She has four beautiful kids and a wonderful hus- boyfriend and he doesn't want to meet the new Hinata. That will be the way they remain.

What was she even thinking?! She was boiling! What is she doing in Konoha? Her house burnt down, everyone thinks she's weak and Mitsuyo is in the hospital... Kami. What if Tenten doesn't forgive her?! Still? It's almost been ten years. Sheesh. Ten years and a damn grudge.

She- she can't. She's so mad!

"Hinata- relax!" Sasuke ordered. "Remember. Reflect. Release,"

"What?!" Hinata asked too loudly.

"Calm down," he said.

"I am calm!" she snapped.

She noticed the lights flickering and the metal all around the bathroom was bubbling, filling the air with the scent of dry metal.

Oh.

She channeled chakra into her ear and listened for Sasuke's slow and steady heartbeat. She looked down and saw the ying and yang tattoo, sighing. She should calm down.

She got lost in her thoughts and the state of metal always reacts. She has to be careful with her outbursts.

He seemed reproachful and wondering. Understanding. "A yen for your thoughts?" Sasuke asked her, nudging her foot with his.

Hinata sighed, feeling so frustrated with herself. "I got stronger and Hiashi wants nothing to do with me,"

Sasuke shifted against the door, just as callous as Hinata secretly felt. He was open with his disgust and scoffed. "Maybe he should have nothing to do with you. He is, quite horrible. Your friends are horrible too," Sasuke admitted.

Hinata nodded. "Ino... called me weak. I will lose it the next time she says something like that. Tenten was surprisingly bad too. I didn't know she... knew I died or that she cared. We haven't really talked,"

"Why not?" Sasuke asked, curious.

Hinata avoided his gaze because she was also ashamed of this. It's been a developing theory with the weapon's user. "She probably doesn't forgive me for... when... Neji... sacrificed himself for me," she said, not knowing why her voice was so thick with emotion. "Before Neji died, she treated me like a sister, which was, like, good because... Hanabi never spoke to me from ages five and on... So, it felt nice. Then, when I jumped in front of Naruto to avoid the... ten-tails branch spear... Neji jumped in front of me- to protect me. He... died immediately. I was dumb, I didn't... even get to say I loved him. Tenten didn't either and for that, she distanced herself from me. We went from talking all day, every day to never speaking. I think she avoids me because she's angry and I let her because I'm guilty," Hinata said slowly, feeling bitterness on her tongue. She looked up, quickly. "I don't know if I'm overthinking it... but it makes me defeated all the same. I say her name, I say sorry but she doesn't... We just have nothing left to say and another year passes. I don't know why I care,"

After thinking over the information, Sasuke shook his head, looking upset on her behalf. "She can't hold that against... you," Sasuke told her softly.

"You'll be surprised how well the girl can hold a grudge," Hinata murmured. "I thought she was relieved I died, which is morbid. I know but... it fits. It's fitting and... 'cause of that... Ino's reaction makes sense but Tenten- no. Not at all,"

Sasuke looked reflective and upset, frowning. "Women are complicated. I don't understand them. Guys just share a few punches and then, you know, drink on it. There's less drama?" Sasuke said, looking puzzled.

"What do you think I should do?" Hinata asked, seeking aid and solace.

Sasuke shrugged. "Let them simmer on their pain and then come back,"

Hinata nodded at the relatively fine advice. "I invited them over for tea, is that alright?" she sighed.

"Yeah," Sasuke nodded. "You make excellent tea. You make excellent company. They're just ruiners,"

She placed her cheeks in her hands, rubbing her eyes. "I'm still not friends... with my friends," Hinata said then smiled. "Uchiha... Sasuke, you're still my best friend- don't tell Someina or Karin but... you really are,"

"Yeah, vice versa," he snorted. Suddenly, Sasuke looked disturbed. "Oh shit," he cursed.

Hinata clicked her tongue three times. "Language, the kids might hear," Hinata scolded lightly.

He brushed her off. "Yeah, yeah. I didn't win against the Raikage,"

Hinata laughed. "I missed you," she said, honestly.

"What do you mean? I'm right here,"

"No... Not like that. Being alone with you," Hinata said wistfully. "Hey! Let's pick up the old days... when it was just me and you eating and watching a movie- without the kids. Just tea, tomatoes, rice and conversation,"

"We don't have any alcohol in this motel. The one regret I have about the house being gone is that our booze was burned down," Sasuke said.

A laugh escaped her lips. "You alcoholic,"

"Yes, I probably am," he grinned. "I drink your tea, now and evermore,"

She laughed again and stood up. She reached over and poked his forehead. "I have somewhere to be, now," she told him.

His cheeks were tinted red as he held his forehead. "Why'd you do that?"

She just shrugged. Hinata thinks the forehead tap means... something between affection and apologizing for not being there. "I'll get... the wine, alright?" Hinata said.

Sasuke nodded.

Before Hinata could leave, she looked over her shoulder. "You're very arrogant, Sasuke. You're allowed to be and I find that somewhat cute. But that's not what makes you charming,"

"Huh?" Sasuke said. "I'm not following,"

Hinata offered a miniscule smile. "You have quiet sweetness... and a lot of determination. A beautiful soul under a lot of prickly layers, that's what makes you charming. You're my real life flower,"

Sasuke was shocked and momentarily gazed at her with an expression she couldn't recognize. "Thank you,"

She paused then turned around. He didn't kiss her goodbye. She didn't even ask. Would he refuse? She already said she would be going. She just stared at him for too long and made things awkward. She missed the window of when to kiss him. Or to ask.

"Did you forget where to find the door, ocha?" he teased.

Hinata blinked then looked at him, a little sad. She shook her head. "No,"

"Then what's wrong?"

"Nothing," Hinata shifted in her spot, a little nervous.

He watched her, a little less jovial. "You're lingering,"

Hinata just opened her mouth then closed it. How could she even ask for one? Is this rejection? They've been together for four years. Why is this so hard?

"If you have something to tell me, say it. You can tell me anything and everything,"

She smiled, feeling dumb and embarrassed. "Will you kiss me goodbye?"

Sasuke laughed. "That's what you were on the rocks about?" he said. Hinata nodded, stiffly. "I will always kiss you goodbye,"

He got up and gathered her into his arms, holding her tightly. It was only then that she could even think of relaxing. She inhaled his scent deeply. He smelled like ozone, rain, and all things calming.

He kissed her and it was like bliss. She never wanted to stop. She wanted to stop touching him. It was confusing. She held the hug a lot longer than he anticipated and he petted her hair.

"Always, you know that right?" he said.

Now.

She nodded. "Don't leave me like that in the mornings. You always say goodbye, okay? I thought something bad happened. I had no idea where you were or if you were okay. Don't do that," she buried her head into his embrace, not able to look at him.

"I had to practice. Drink a bit. Practice sword fighting. I'm the big bad Uchiha. I've gotta protect myself and you, ocha, 'kay?"

"You're not just Uchiha Sasuke to me- I can't lose you. So. Don't let anyone hurt you," she said. "You aren't a punching bag. You're the love of my life and I need you safe,"

"C'mon, Hinata. Look at me," he coaxed, stroking her shoulder.

She shook her head.

"Would you please look at me?" Sasuke asked.

Hinata lifted her chin and gazed at him. "Hmm?"

"I won't. I'm staying, okay? I'm not gonna get into trouble, alright?" he said. "I'll do you a favor and keep alive,"

"Thank you," she whispered into his lips, kissing him softly. "Goodbye, alright?" she said.

He pressed their foreheads together. "Goodbye," he said.

¤¤¤

Standing in the street after getting expensive wine, the moon was out and she passed through the Konoha roads. She heard sounds of the night; street vendors calling out to civilians, animals clawing through the garbage and stars scraping against the night sky.

The fight was huge. She didn't even know who won but everyone seemed festive. She smelled the good food being cooked and the delectable scents rocked her to her core. She brought little snacks for the kids. Everyone was celebrating and the adults drank heavy amounts of alcohol.

She decided to look at all the pretty lights until she passed a bar window. Ino... was at the bar. The redness on her pale skin was unmistakable and the brightness of her face made it obvious. She was alone, she thinks and drinking.

Ino, indeed, was a very social creature and she was alone... on a night like this. It was more characteristic of Hinata staying alone and drinking but there Ino was... alone, nursing her own tall glass.

Hinata watched her in the window. She should do something. But she won't. There's no use.

Suddenly, Ino made eye-contact with Hinata before she could disappear. Ino was always disrespectful. There's no mystery. She's bad news.

Hinata panicked then tried to escape but in moments, the blonde was beside her. She was also quite fast for an intoxicated woman.

She lifted a lazy finger to Hinata, pointing. "You look like my... friend," Ino said with a slurred tone.

The alcohol on her breath smelled sweet and strong. Reaching up, she tapped on Hinata's cheeks.

Hinata slapped Ino's hands away. "No," Hinata said. That was all she could say without cursing or causing a fight.

Hinata fought the urge to run away and hide.

Ino sighed. "You even got her face. And hair. And body. You're real pretty. Hinata was beautiful,"

Hinata frowned, staying quiet.

Ino shrugged. Lazily. "You look like my best friend- Hyuuga Hinata. She's super quiet, she worked with me and she cuts out magazine pictures of wedding dresses. She is very good at taking care of me. People. Uh, what people don't know about me is that I like her better than Sakura. Shh! Don't tell her, cause she'll get mad and secondly, Hinata is super dead," she laughed and then her long, breathy laughs turned into whimpers of pain. "Super dead,"

Wincing, Hinata asked, "Is she?"

"Yes. I mean. Well- I mean- I said that but she really isn't. I don't know why I said that. I dunno," Ino shrugged.

"It's delicate," Hinata said in a small, sad tone.

Ino swayed a bit, looking dazed. "It is, isn't it?" Ino repeated. She groaned and stomped her foot, looking destroyed. She threaded her fingers through her hair, grinding her teeth. "I was such a bitch! I'm always so rude to her but it's in her best interest! She doesn't stick up for herself. I love her so much but I drive her away,"

"We all have people we drive away. It's the way things are," Hinata said vaguely referring to Ino. She didn't want to be rude and she didn't want to snap, so she didn't know what she would say or do. Damn it.

"Yep," Ino said, popping the 'p', "but I'm extra horrible some days. Other days, I try to be nice but no... I have to be a pig," Ino revealed to Hinata with a lamenting tone.

"I- I have to-" go. Hinata wanted to leave because more words from Ino's mouth would make her cry. She opened her mouth to signal her departure but Ino seemed to know her thoughts. Weirdly.

Ino straightened her spine. "Oh no," she said loudly, shaking her head.

"Oh no, what?" Hinata asked.

Ino's beautiful eyes became obvious with pain. "You look like you're gonna leave. Don't do that, Hinata left me and never came back and we're fighting," she said, tugging on Hinata's arm. "Cause of my constant hairsplitting and devilry way of acting,"

Hinata threw an experimental glance at Ino. "Why?"

"You should drink with me or talk. Please. My best friend Sakura got into a 'uuuge fight with her boo. About Sasuke! Isn't that wild? All cause of some man she doesn't even love anymore. It's been eight... almost ten years since he's left Konoha- so. Why should she even care? Anyway. Stay. My husband's on a trip an' I was wondering if you would like to stay with me," Ino said, stumbling over her request.

She moved closer, giving off nervous energy that Hinata felt the pressure of. Ino wanted to seem casual and carefree with the random, definitely haphazard request but she knew just how eager Ino was.

"If Hinata were here- she'd tell me, 'Go back home to Inojin 'cause your mother wouldn't like it if she knew you dropped him off at her house just to drink instead of crying,' Gosh... she'd say I'm a bad mother,"

"Inojin?" Hinata asked, the name sticking in her ear.

Ino brightened immediately, looking proud of herself. Puffing her chest, she told Hinata the circumstance. "Yeah. My kid. He's four! He's adorable but he's a handful," she fiddled with her hand. "I got married. Hinata was s'pposed to be my... maid of honor. We used to be one big family... Now I messed it up,"

"You probably didn't," Hinata said, lying. "I'm gonna go home now. To my... soon-to-be husband. Goodnight,"

Her expression was crestfallen. Ino sighed and tilted her head back to the bar she was in. "I should probably... get back to my drink before someone... ugh, I dunno. Drops somethin' in it," she said, tripping over her words. "And my friends,"

Hinata nodded. "You... go on and do that," Hinata gave her a smile then turned around and scampered off, as far as her stubby legs would take her. "And... whatever you are looking for... will not be found at the bottom of the bottle. Try tea. For you, lemon balm-tea. And.. uh, it's cold out, wear a jacket. And uh, goodnight,"

A few moments passed, seeming like a simple eternity to no one else but them.

"Wait!" Ino said.

What does she want now? Hinata thought, tensing up. She twirled on her heel, facing the girl. "Yes?"

Ino looked desperate and her eyes were so huge, she looked owlish. "Can I hug you?" she asked quietly.

For some reason, Hugs were a huge thing to... Ino. She'd always hug Hinata. Sakura got annoyed of the affection and never allowed Ino to wrap her up. Hinata was way more lenient.

"Hug me?" Hinata squeaked.

"Mhmm," she nodded.

"Why?"

"I haven't hugged her in like six years. And you're the next best thing. Those were the last words I said. 'I will see you again, tomorrow,' then she died. She died all because of Orochimaru or like Sasuke... Uchiha or whatever. I dunno. I didn't see her tomorrow,"

Thrusting herself onto Hinata, Ino began sobbing into Hinata's shoulder, loudly and violently. "I miss her," she said, holding onto Hinata like a lifeline. "No one... Not even Sakura or my current friends understand 'cause they didn't know... her,"

I miss you too... Ino, Hinata thought as she rubbed Ino's back in soothing circles. She had to be an anchor. Strong. Strong. Stronger than that strong. She does take all the blame for this Konoha drift. Ino seems to also carry that heavy burden.

"I'm sorry. I cried all over you," she said with a nasal tone and red eyes. "Yamanaka women are too emotional. Sorry,"

Hinata shook her head and summoned a napkin. "As long as you're cleansed... from whatever plagued you... it's alright," she passed the tissue to her former friend, happy to be of service. "Take the time to feel alright again,"

Ino laughed and stepped away, wiping her eyes. She watched Hinata as if hypnotized. "You have this gentle aura. I... I like it, makes me feel relaxed. Like a home outside of a home. Only Hinata was able to do that," Ino said.

Ino had the ability to make others very, very happy in short spouts of time. Maybe that's why Hinata... loved being around her. She hates that she didn't, didn't remember the friendship they wanted to rewind where Ino and she began... when there wasn't this wall. She loves Ino, it's simple but she can't let the words come out.

"I hope Hinata woman's up and leaves her man. The way she looks at Naruto- she can't pretend-"

Then- then, Hinata couldn't take it anymore and punched Ino in her stomach. The sheer force of the punch sent Ino vaulting across the dim paved cobblestone road.

"It's the only way of shutting you up! Ino, you are the same awful... person from five years ago," Hinata yelled.

Ino's nose began to bleed and she stayed watching Hinata. Then, promptly threw up. After wiping her mouth and turning away from the throw-up, Ino shook her head.

"You can't hit me," she said, a narrow to her eyes and a threat in her tone.

"I only hit people who deserve to be hit," Hinata said as she saw the unsteady Ino shuttling towards her. They fought, quite a lot.