I Love Neji Hyuga

My Works In Progress/To-Do: (not in any particular order)

1. Neji x Reader Christmas - Request

2. I’ll Never Leave You pt 3 (Neji x Reader) 

3. Late Nights (Kiba x Reader)

4. Take a Break (Shisui x Reader)

5. Pumpkin Parade (Neji x Reader)

6. Costumes (Kawaki x Reader)

7. Candy (Kankuro x Reader)

8. Something Missing (Momoshiki x Reader) - Request

9. Kagura, Kawaki, Shikadai, Shinki Valentines HCs - Request

10. Kawaki Jealousy - Request

This is just a list of the work that I’ve done, as well as some characters that I am hoping to write one day:

Akatsuki:

Deidara (Iwagakure)

Hot Springs Bring Us Together

Itachi Uchiha (Konohagakure)

Teddy Bears

Insecure at the Beach

Beautiful

Sasori (Sunagakure)

Flowers

Hidan (Yugakure)

Kisame Hoshigaki (Kirigakure)

Konohagakure:

Neji Hyuga 

I’ll Never Leave You pt. 1

I’ll Never Leave You pt. 2

July Birthday Boy HCs

Halloween HCs - Konoha Boys

Shisui Uchiha - the fact that I haven’t written anything for him... :(

Kiba Inuzuka 

New Friends

July Birthday Boy HCs

Rock Lee

Choji Akimichi

Halloween HCs - Konoha Boys

Genma Shiranui

July Birthday Boy HCs

Sai 

Halloween HCs - Konoha Boys

Shino Aburame

Halloween HCs - Konoha Boys

Shikaku Nara

July Birthday Boy HCs

Sasuke Uchiha (Konohagakure, Otogakure, Hebi/Taka)

July Birthday Boy HCs

Kirigakure:

Haku Yuki

Zabuza Momochi

Yagura Karatachi

Mangetsu Hozuki

Suigetsu Hozuki 

Kumogakure:

C

Darui

Omoi

Iwagakure: 

N/A 

Sunagakure:

Gaara

Neji Hyuga:

You want HIM to enter a contest with you? Absolutely not.

Unless you really, really, really want him too... Maybe he'll make an exception. You never really know with this guy.

Of course he envisions something with some level of class, possibly inspired by European fashion in the 1700s or something.

But when you suggest your own idea... a feeling of regret already washes over him.

Two peas in a pod? Wearing full, head to toe green... He just can't.

"Apologies, Y/n... I just doubt that even we could pull it off." Truth be told, when you made him try the outfit, he really did want to pull it off. In the literal sense.

"Hyuga's should display class, Y/n. Really, I must insist we refrain from participating in this event. Unless... you want to get a different partner, that is." He smirked, knowing full well that you would never. He is your husband, after all.

You realize it really might be for the best, and why wear costumes when you could just sit at home and watch movies? A place where the world wouldn't be watching and he could be himself.

Sai:

If it's something that you want to do, he's immediately in. No matter how stupid he looks in the costume.

Actually he's rather a fashion critique himself, and had many interesting comments to give to the other couples. "A fisherman and his catch of the day? Do you want to brutally murder her for profit? Nonsensical."

"You don't want to win first place?" He kind of goes overboard, almost forgetting about you with his preparations. "So I was thinking... we should do a dance. Something that symbolizes a bee flying around a flower and collecting its nectar?" You two might have to enroll in an interpretive dance class afterwards.

After being near you for so long, it was easy to tell if you were bothered by anything. "Y/n... you seem distant. Is there something wrong?" He asked, though usually quite emotionless in public, around others.

"I just thought this would be more of a fun activity for us... not a huge competition." He seemed to get the hint.

In the end you both enjoy it, regardless of if you win or lose.

Choji Akimichi:

When you brought it up over dinner one night, it seemed you both saw the same poster hanging up at Ichiraku. He was going to ask you as well.

His love of potato chips has never faded since he was a child, so it wasn't much of a surprise when he brought them up as a costume idea. And asked if you could pick some up from the store for 'research purposes'.

It turned out to be quite a cute costume, and with Choji's pure passion being shown for the design, you obviously won. Whether said passion was for you or for the chips, no one will really know. "I mean... why can't it be both?".

"I really didn't think we would win against Kiba and Akamaru... It must've been pretty good luck." He smiled greatly, looking at the trophy in your hand. "They were disqualified! Akamaru wasn't even wearing a costume." You frowned at him. "Well everyone loves dogs!" He chuckled, walking into the kitchen.

It was somewhat refreshing to see a new trophy after so many from food eating competitions. "It really is good to mix it up a little..." You muttered, setting it down on the mantle.

Shino Aburame:

"It's a contest?" He asked, shifting his gaze from the flyer to you. "Yes! Isn't it wonderful? All the other couples are going..." You added, trying to be convincing, though to no avail. "And... it will be a great way to spread the word about insect awareness, being filmed and shown on television." He breathed in loudly, contemplating his predicament. "Fine... for the insects."

The next week was spent painting the large shells that would go on your backs. He made a dark, monochromatic one, made to look like his own.

"Too bad we lost." He laughed, surprising you. Your husband never laughed. "Are you feeling alright, Shino?" You asked, resting your hand on his forehead to feel his temperature. "It was... more fun than I was expecting. It was nice to spend some time with you." You looked away with a slight blush covering your face. "I don't say this nearly enough, but I love you Y/n." You both smiled at the sentiment.

Food didn’t usually leave a sour taste in Y/n’s mouth, especially some of her favorite dishes. To most people, it might be normal to think that downstairs there were still people conversing, disappointed in a young teenagers cascade back up to her room where she still laid after an evening of eating and celebration, not for her of course. With the pride of the family being her older brother, a senior in high school going to a more sports-oriented school, her, who was more academic in nature instead was left with private school that left little room for a large social life, which she didn’t particularly desire anyway. A small group of friends was seen as best to her, and while she never dated or cared much about boys, her parents still found her to be too ‘cavalier’ in her personal life, thinking she was like the girls her brother would speak about.

As a fan of running anyway, there was never a need to diet for her, as Y/n had always been relatively skinny throughout her life. Boys at her age were still immature, and not focused on having a long term relationship like her, not thinking about the future and instead dating for clout and not much else. While her brother was out playing football, wearing t-shirts, shorts, and tennis shoes like most did his age, relishing his youth and freedom, Y/n wore the same outfit every day, a uniform, one that her parents apparently associated with the wrong groups of people despite it’s obvious requirement.

-

Even with the nighttime sky in the city being dark and gray, lights still flickering outside and hiding the stars, it was still a better sight than that of a disappointed expression, one that her parents gave her whenever she wore just about anything, constantly shaming her for her appearance. It was a reminder that they had different expectations for her than her brother, b/n, that she was meant to do well in school while he could go off galavanting around with different girlfriends as long as he worked hard in sports to get a scholarship and made a name for himself that way. They felt as if they shouldn’t have to worry about her in life, and that being attractive was something that of a curse to distract her from learning and getting good grades.

Y/n was already dressed in her pajamas, her usual f/c nightgown that went down to her ankles and covered her arms, as she slipped under the covers of her bed, listening to the heavy rain droplets start hitting the roof of the house. The noise of the lightswitch clicking was the last thing to catch her attention before she was lying still in darkness, dazed out trying to forget the moments of the evening that had happened only a bit before, which at that point had become something of a routine for her.

Flashback:

“I’m home!” Y/n yelled, slipping off her black ballet flats and placing them next to the door. “Come to the kitchen! I need help with something.” Her mother shouted back, hearing Y/n start walking up the stairs. “Dad’s home?” She asked, entering the kitchen and looking around. Food was being placed in the oven, and a cake was being decorated by her father. “He came home early since we have a guest coming for dinner.” Her question was quickly answered by her mother, who was basting the chicken. “Ah.” She breathed out, walking over to help her mother. “Who is it?” Y/n inquired, peeking her head around to see the frosting better. “B/n has a new girlfriend, and would like to introduce her to us. Now, actually go upstairs and change out of that obscene outfit. I just washed your black dress, it’s in your closet.” Said ‘obscene outfit’ was a phrase quite commonly heard in that household, the pleated knee-length navy blue skirt, button up white shirt, and black tights that made up her school’s uniform.

Staring into her closet, Y/n’s eyes spotted the ‘black dress’. It was essentially a shapeless blob of fabric, that had black, poofy long sleeves, and went down to her ankles with a high neckline. It looked fine on her, of course, but she didn’t understand what was so wrong about her school uniform that her mother would make her change every time others would see her. “Hm, that’s better, right?” She looked at Y/n, much preferring her outfit and finally showing a smile. "You really would make a great judge, right?" She mentioned, seeing the resemblance. “Go sit down, they’ll be back from school any minute.” She gestured to the table, hearing the doorbell ring.

“Mom! Meet my girlfriend, Ino.” B/n smiled, looking at the girl standing next to her. She was skinny and blonde, hair up in a high ponytail wearing a purple crop top and matching skirt, clearly a casual outfit. “It’s so good to meet you Mrs./Ms. L/n!” Ino stepped inside the house. “B/n has told me so much about you, welcome!” She responded, smiling widely to make a good impression while guiding them over to the table as well. It was nothing but awkward small talk that kept Y/n in the group while they waited for the food to be ready, her staring out the window most of the time while her ears blocked out the chatter as best as they could. Still little pieces were picked up, like “... oh, he asked me out to go to the basketball game…” and “... She’s also the captain of the cheerleading team…”, but she couldn’t care much less, considering they were older and at a different school anyway, nothing too interesting.

“Dinners ready!” Her father called, bringing in each dish on platters, casually mentioning his great job of decorating the cake. Though she was the last to serve herself, there was still plenty of food, Y/n taking a piece of chicken breast and a wing, filling up half her plate with salad and the rest with potatoes and green beans. “Y/n, save some salad for the others, no?” Her mother looked at her, though there was plenty of salad to go around. “There’s more potatoes.” She mentioned, giving her a light glare. “I’m good, I like salad.” Y/n muttered, turning to look at b/n, who just raised his eyebrows and shrugged. It was nice for her to know that she had someone who recognized what was going on, but never enough for him to chime in for the fear of getting a target on his back as well. In the sibling world, it seemed it was everyone for themselves at that point.

By the end of dinner, Y/n could swear she could recite every single pageant award Ino had won, among other medals for cheerleading, gymnastics, and ballet. “Y/n, how about you eat some more?” Was a common question at every dinner she had ever had with her family. “I really am full!” She responded, holding back an eye roll. It was exhausting, to have parents who only showed caring about her appearance, something that she found was mostly out of her control. It wasn’t her fault for having a high metabolism.

A vanilla cake was served, slathered with fluffy buttercream and a rich custard between the layers. Something about the "MmmMMmmmm... This is SO GOOD!" Ino let out as she ate, may have indicated the flavor was divine, and that she was somewhat of a suckup, easily feeding Y/n's fathers ego. "I've always been quite a talented baker, you know. Some might say even good enough to open a bakery!" He joked. "May I please be excused?" Y/n asked, not having finished all her cake, but was tired. "Y/n, darling, you're not finished yet." Her mother responded, insisting she stay put. "I'm pretty tired, and I have some homework to get done anyway." Was Y/n's power move. Grades; the one thing more important to her parents than what she wore or what she ate. "Run along then, do your best!" Were the last words she heard directed towards her.

Flashback Ends

She could only assume that B/n had driven Ino home, the chattering soon stopping and the door having opened with a noticeable click. There had been no homework that day, and while lying never felt good, staying there any longer felt worse. With quiet, peaceful sleep just approaching, it was slightly disheartening to hear a ding from her phone on the bedside table, a text message from her best friend.

Itachi: Hey!

Y/n: Hello.

Itachi: So... How was she?

Y/n: Hm?

Itachi: The new girl.

Y/n: I guess she's fine, anyway.

Itachi: Well, that's good. Sasuke's at Naruto's, do you want to come over and watch f/m?

Y/n: I'm pretty tired, and I already got ready for bed.

Itachi: It's like 7:30, you're never tired this early.

Itachi: They did it again... didn't they.

Y/n: Eh. Not sure why that's surprising.

Itachi: Want to talk about it?

Y/n: No.

Itachi: Y'know you've always got me, right?

Y/n: Yeah, of course.

Y/n: I'm going to head to sleep now.

Itachi: Huh. Well, see you at school tomorrow.

Y/n: Night.

Itachi: Night.

-

Morning came swiftly, with the sky smelling clean and like fresh rain when Y/n opened the dew covered window. "Good morning sleepy... oh hey!" B/n swinged the door open. "I didn't expect you to be up on time." He laughed. "Mom made waffles by the way, so come down quick!" He rushed down the stairs without a second thought, no breakfast allowed until he woke her up. Y/n however lazily walked, the creeks of each step echoing through the house notifying her father to look up from his laptop.

"You really shouldn't wear things like that, especially when we have guests." He hinted at her pajamas. "Huh. I'll keep that in mind." Y/n mumbled, not acknowledging his mentioning of guests. "Cute pajamas, Y/n!" Ino mentioned, standing against the wall with a plate in the kitchen, to which Y/n just stared blankly in response. "Oh yeah. I thought Ino could drive with us to school, and have breakfast today. Hope that's cool with you." B/n briefly spoke, too focused on the chocolate chip waffles in front of him for the taking. "Yeah, I guess that's fine." Though she would miss sitting in the car with just him and talking, It wasn't the biggest deal in the world. Especially since it wouldn't become a part of the routine or anything.

"Y/n, what are you wearing?" Her mother asked, turning to look at her. "The... the pajamas grandma got me for christmas?" Her mother frowned. "Go upstairs and get dressed, we don't have time for your shenanigans, you have to be out the door in 30 minutes." She scolded, watching Y/n walk back up. "I guess anything cute is off the table, too." Y/n muttered to herself, putting on her uniform, as well as a gray sweater with the school logo embroidered on it. With her bag in tow, she was finally able to go to school, and finally see Itachi as well.

-

"So I was thinking." Itachi whispered, tapping his pencil lightly on his notebook. "We could continue our study session at my house?" He suggested, poking Y/n's forehead lightly to get her attention. "I doubt we'd get much done... and plus, you know how my mom feels about that." Itachi contemplated for a minute. "We've been friends for years! Practically forever at this point, I think you're over exaggerating. And it's a teacher work day so Sasuke's still at Naruto's anyway." He smiled, trying to convince her. "Why not, I guess. We have a chemistry exam coming up." She smiled back. In truth, she was always borderline about to shout 'yes!' whenever he made a proposition to hang out more. But the thought that 'who would want to anyway?' always clouded her mind. Luckily he was the organizer in the friendship, it worked out that way.

"So..." Itachi and Y/n sat on the swings during recess. "You want to tell me how it went?" He asked. "The dinner went fine, B/n seems to really like her." She responded. "You know what I mean." He raised his brow, before looking disappointed. "I thought we agreed you would talk to them about this." He grabbed her hand to make her look at him. "I... was going to... but then I forgot?" She said quietly. "If you won't tell your parents to back off, then I will. They can't keep treating you like this." Whether it was lucky or unlucky for Y/n, the bell rang and it was time to go back to class. "Trust me, we will talk about this later." He mentioned while he loosely dragged her off the swing. 'Why is he so angry?' She wondered, frantically writing down notes of a geometry formula during the next period.

-

"I'm home!" Y/n yelled, just like any and all days prior, before walking over to the living room. It seemed to be the best bet asking her father, seeing as he liked Itachi much more. 'The best way to ask is to just go out and say it.' She repeated in her mind. "Itachi invited me to go over to his house and study tonight." She sat down on the couch next to her father, who was reading a news article. "His parents will be home, right?" He asked back, not making an effort to have eye contact. "Yes." She responded. "Dinner here or there?" Was his final question. "I think I'll have something there." Y/n was internally thrilled. It never went this smoothly before, and usually her mother would prevent her from going at all. "Itachi?" She shouldn't have jinxed it. Her mother yelled from another room, before she stormed out. "You're not going." She practically roared. "But dad already said I could." Her mother glared at her father. "He's not a bad guy, honestly. Have some faith in Y/n." A smile somehow creeped up her face. Despite their differences, it reminded her why she always looked up to her parents in a way, how she knew that despite that constant criticism, they still loved her, they just didn't show it much. "Fine, but change out of that ridiculous getup." She frowned, looking at the clock. "B/n will be here in twenty minutes, he can take you."

"Mom actually let you go?" B/n looked shocked when you asked him. "Well, she lets you go to Ino's house all the time." He frowned, almost as if he was going to say 'touche'. "I'm sorry, y'know? - I kinda let you take all the hits from them." She rolled her eyes. 'Kind of?' She thought to herself. "It's fine, I can take it." He patted her on the shoulder as they reached a stoplight. "The only reason they're like that is because they think that i'm just a dumb jock anyway, and have nothing better to do. Plus, they know that every girlfriend I have will just be gone in less than a month." He laughed, trying to ease the tension. "But I feel like Ino might be the one, y'know? She's different from all the others." He started to drive again. "Sure." Was the only thing Y/n had to say to that. Honestly, maybe she was? There was no way for Y/n to know, as she barely knew her. But it didn't really matter, since Itachi was only a few minutes away and her heart was beating unusually fast.

"Wow. I haven't been here in forever." Y/n laughed as Itachi opened the door. "I was pretty confused when I saw your text, honestly. I didn't think you'd be able to come." He laughed, gesturing inside. B/n started to pull out of the driveway. "Don't do anything I wouldn't do!" He shouted with a grin on his face. "I can't tell if that's a warning or permission." Y/n joked to Itachi, moving through the entrance. "Well, he definitely hasn't changed much, has he." Itachi led her to the table. His house was large and spacious, not to mention impeccably clean, no dust being visible on any of the shelves or the fan.

"Y/n!" A female voice exclaimed as Itachi's mother walked into the room. "It's been ages!" Mikoto gave her a long hug. "Mother, we need to study." Itachi stared at her. "Yes, yes, I know. I don't mean to take up all your time with her. I'll make up some snacks, okay?" She disappeared into the kitchen. "Sorry about that." He pulled out her chair before sitting in his. "There's nothing to be sorry about. If anything, I wish I could say high to Sasuke as well." Y/n smiled. "Do you have any chemistry topics you particularly want to focus on?" She asked, flipping through the textbook she took from her bag.

-

Hours had passed, and the sky was already getting darker considering it was almost 6:00. "Ah, Y/n's here." Fugaku noted as he hung his coat up in the closet and closed the door. "Isn't it great? She hasn't been here for ages!" Mikoto chimed in. "Dinner's almost ready!" She called, prompting Itachi and Y/n to start putting away their books. "So, how has Sasuke been doing?" Y/n asked, curious. "He must be... what... nine or so now?" She continued. "He's been less keen on joining the police, that's for sure." Itachi mentioned. "Well he is still so young, I doubt he has any true career opinions." She knew Fugaku always wanted them to join him. With Itachi excelling so much at school though, he had set his hopes of Sasuke more.

"I made some chicken soup, rice, we have fresh tomatoes from the garden, oh and lettuce as well." Mikoto spoke softly as she set the food down on the table. "This looks delicious!" Y/n replied. The dinner was mostly silent, a few remarks from Fugaku but mostly Mikoto and Y/n discussing what had been going on since they had last seen each other. "Really, B/n has a new girlfriend? I thought he said he was done with dating!" She laughed. "Well, he's never been great with sticking to his plans." Y/n explained, while Itachi just watched her speak.

'She has a wonderful relationship with my mother, and Father seems to be rather fond of her as well... though he doesn't show it much...' Itachi contemplated in his head. 'Plus, Sasuke loves her too... she's perfect...' he continued to space out lightly. "Itachi... Itachi?" He heard Y/n speak, him starting to shake his head aggressively. "Yeah, I'm awake. I'm awake!" He gasped, startled, hearing both her and Mikoto giggle while they cleared the dishes. "I can do the dishes myself, no need to help Y/n." She insisted. "Thank you so much, that was a wonderful dinner!" Y/n smiled, feeling like part of the family. It was one of the things that she loved so much, being with people who she got along so well with.

"I still have f/m... you know. And we finished all our planned studying..." Itachi sat on the couch in front of the TV. "It's getting late though, and I assume B/n will be heading back home soon anyway." Mikoto overheard their conversation. "You should stay over! Then you can see Sasuke in the morning." Y/n's face turned into a heavy blush, Itachi chuckling at the sight. "My parents would definitely not be okay with that, unfortunately." She tried to keep a straight face. "Oh, nonsense. I trust you both completely and they should too, plus i'll be up far later than you will be. I can give them a call, i'm very persuasive." And Y/n didn't doubt it. "I guess we can watch f/m then!" She responded excitedly. "I'll put it on." He smiled.

"Y/n, I have some clean pajamas that should fit you if you'd like, and we have spare toothbrushes as well." Mikoto said, handing her the fabric. "They said yes?" Y/n asked, shocked. She was fully ready to just head home in only a few minutes. "I made them a promise i'd be up the entire time, so they're fine with it, considering they let B/n sleep over at his girlfriend's house sometimes anyway and don't want to come get you themselves, as he's staying at his friends." She smiled. 'Finally, b/n comes through!' Y/n thought in her head. "Have fun with the movie!" Mikoto left the room, Y/n heading to the bathroom to change and brush her teeth.

"These are super comfortable." She mentioned, walking back into the room wearing the pajamas. They were a dark, reddish brown color and were made of silk, with little bows on each of the button clasps. The shirt went down just above her knees and the pants were loose and puffed out near the ankle a bit. "They look great on you." Itachi looked over, patting next to him on the couch. "My mom would hate the bows." She muttered, glancing at the TV, waiting for him to press play. "Do you care what she thinks?" He asked, in a surprisingly serious tone. "I mean, kind of I guess." She sighed. "I know you might not know this... but I think you're beautiful." He slightly whispered, looking into her eyes.

"You've never dated, you've had great grades, and yet they still don't let you do anything. It's complete hypocrisy and you know what? It hurts. It hurts a ton to see you constantly insulted by them, watching tears fall from your eyes yet you say you're fine and they think you're fine. I'm done with it. I will do whatever it takes to make them stop, because no matter how much you weigh, or whatever changes, you will always be beautiful to me, and beautiful to everyone else who loves you. Okay?" He practically shouted, taking in deep breaths after finishing his rant that got progressively more heated. "You love me?" She whispered, almost frightened in a way yet amazed, despite him being a man of many words. "Yes, of course. More than you will ever know, even more than your parents and brother combined."

"I love you too, Itachi." Y/n shuffled closer to him, moving under the blanket and resting her head on his shoulder. "If you don't mind me asking, how so?" He chuckled, hoping the darkness was hiding his flushed face. "How so for you?" She asked nervously. "I... Be mine, Y/n. Please. You are perfect, and I know it's cliche, but I promise to forever be yours as well." He stared at her, anxiously waiting for a response. Yet it was not words, that were said at that moment. It was a soft, subtle kiss on the cheek. "I would love to be. Now can we please watch the movie now? I'm tired." Itachi chuckled at his cuteness, turning on the movie though they only got a few minutes in before falling asleep.

Flashback:

“The beach?” Y/n asked, examining the basket of laundry Itachi had just set down. “Yes, at Sasuke’s invitation.” She contemplated his words. “It seems most of the children are going to visit there as some kind of retreat for the academy… with adults of course.” He smiled, removing his gray shirt and tossing it in the basket as well. He looked as good as ever, at least as far as Y/n could tell. Just the same, really. Hair still perfectly straight and smooth, tied back loosely in a comfortable ponytail, and body in pristine condition and shape, him still getting high levels of exercise within his busy schedule. But Y/n, though she had eaten relatively healthy and exercised frequently throughout the pregnancy, it was still clear as day that she was expecting, naturally.

What was the expectation? Would she just sit there and sulk the entire time? While all the other Konoha women, Tenten, Ino, Temari, Sakura, and Hinata would wear extravagant bathing suits? Something Y/n wasn’t accustomed to even when less large. It seemed that in her group of people, she was going through this alone. The rest of them had long been recovered from their pregnancies, and were together during that stage, which Y/n herself had missed. 'I’d look like a complete fool next to him…’ She couldn’t help but think while picturing the event in her head. It seemed wrong, criminal even, to be slightly ashamed of carrying her own child, and to feel as if Itachi's support was not enough. But maybe… if she had not wanted to wait so long… he would already have been born yet and she wouldn’t be in this predicament now.

“It will be a bit of a trip to Kirigakure, but nothing to bad and i’m sure it will be worth it. It will be nice to see water after so long, right?” Y/n nodded, shyly. “You must miss Kisame, right?” Itachi contemplated for a brief moment, a finger resting on his chin as his eyes took in the ceiling. “He was a fine partner, really. And despite it all, one of the best shinobi I have ever seen.” He reminisced, the memories still feeling like yesterday. Regret was not as apparent in his words as they were years ago, it was good to see he had forgiven himself more after all this time.

He noticed her expression change suddenly, him almost aware there would be an excuse coming. “I… I don’t think I have a swimsuit, Itachi…” She frowned, turning away from his gaze. “What? Nonsense. We can go out shopping whenever you’d like and buy a new one. I’m sure we can find something to fit your style.” He walked over and put his hand on her shoulder as she hung up some wet clothes. “I have the day off, let me finish that so you can get some rest.” He insisted, her refusal making him frown and start dragging her off to their room. “Y/n, if not for yourself, then for me?” He tucked her into the covers like he had done so many times before. “Just relax.” He spoke softly before exiting, leaving Y/n alone with her thoughts. Part of her wanted to call out to Itachi, and inform him of her concerns. He always knew how to make her feel better. Yet she could only feel as if it would be selfish to do so. And so she went to sleep, somewhat longing for her husband to be with her so she could be at peace.

-

The next day rolled around, gray clouds in the sky as if they were perfectly representing Y/n’s mood. No magical remedy came from the sweet comments that came from the people in the village as they walked through the streets, everyone congratulating them for their child, and those who had already known were shocked at his growth. Instead, it was Itachi’s eyes when he heard their excitement, the eyes of an excited father-to-be, and one Y/n could predict would be perfect in every way.

Another comfort was the maternity store they stopped at, it being run by a woman who too was pregnant, and had lots of cute choices for bathing suits. With the help of Itachi, Y/n eventually chose a simple f/c two-piece suit with small white stripes adorning it, and a little bow before the top poofed out over her stomach, making it comfortable. The skirt was the same, and long enough that she didn’t feel uncomfortable.

“You look wonderful, my love.” Itachi spoke softly as she looked at herself in the mirror with a slight smile. “Of course, you always do.” He added, placing a hand on your belly and feeling a slight kick from the baby. “He’s restless these days…” Y/n’s smile grew at his movement. “Reminds me of Shisui. I believe we may have another troublemaker in the Uchiha clan.” He chuckled softly, reminding himself to invite Shisui along as well. “At least we know he will become a great, strong ninja. Just like him.” She spoke.

Flashback Ends.

“Mommy! Come play with me and Kawaki!” Himawari squealed, running up to Hinata why dragging Kawaki with her. “Ah. I said don’t want to play right now!” He yelled sternly, voice softening as he watched her whimper. “Come on! You’ll want to play if we start!” He nodded, slightly annoyed as he really had nothing better to do. “Well it seems as if I have to go now, I’ll leave you to discuss.” Hinata mentioned, as she walked off with the kids a bit down the beach for whatever activities Himawari had in store for them.

“Hey Naruto!” Shisui spoke, standing up and situating himself on the empty space on the log. “Yeah?” Naruto replied, watching his movements. “Been having fun being the hokage?” Shisui asked, in a friendly tone. “Sure! I mean…” He pondered the question. It had been everything he’d wanted since he was a child. But even then, he knew he wouldn’t be the best at the job. That would be someone else.

“Well you should really be hokage, Itachi!” Naruto mentioned, turning to face the Uchiha. “No, no. I’m quite glad I turned it down. As fun as paperwork sounds, I prefer to stay home with Y/n and now B/n. It would be hard to take care of them if I was never around...” Itachi spoke. “B/n sounds lucky. He has a dad who actually wants to be in is life.” Boruto muttered, hearing their conversation. “The hokage’s job is important, and someone has to do it, right Boruto?” Shisui chimed in, tapping the boys shoulder as he stood up.

“Y/n, would you like to go in the water?” Itachi asked, confused at her cold expression. “You can go, I think it’s best if I just stay here.” She tried to smile at him, yet somehow couldn't. “Hmm…” Surprise was evident on her face as he took her hands in his, guiding her up to stand. When they were at eye level, she could only blush at the way he was deeply examining her face. “Are you… nervous Y/n?” He asked plainly, leaving Shisui confused in the background as he started to walk with her along the beach a little ways.

“Someday when he is born, it would be nice to take him to the beach with us.” He smiled, gently squeezing her hand. Missing her response, he stopped walking. “We'd have to wait for the group to go all the way back to the village, since I doubt anyone else is ready to head home, but if you’d like, we can just leave the beach until the end if that's what you'd like.” Itachi asked, wanting her to be comfortable. Part of him was thinking she was just tired from the pregnancy, but he knew her too well to truly think that was all it was.

"If there is anything concerning you, please, tell me." He almost begged, but knowing her he knew she wouldn't give anything. "I'm fine, really, Itachi." Y/n looked him in the eyes, slightly mesmerized by how beautiful his were. She had truly married such a talented shinobi, with eyes that even when without the sharingan, could easily put her in a trance. "Here. Let's go in the water." Itachi led her to the edge of the sand where the waves spilled onto it. The golden sun made the blue water sparkle, a mesmerizing sight for the couple. A sweet moment that they hadn’t had time for in the last months, preparation for the baby and all. Itachi was always at work, seeing as he had to support them somehow, and when he wasn’t, he would force Y/n to rest as she was constantly tired and needed it. As nice as quiet can be, she missed the noise of their conversations and time together, which Itachi understood, yet he wanted to take a few months off work spending them with her and b/n so they had to try and save up as much as possible for now.

-

"Mmmph!" Y/n turned to look at the sound, Himawari skipping towards them. "Bleh" Kawaki bursted up through his sand shell, rising through the ground. Himawari’s face was a look of almost terror, yet also amusement that brought confusion to Itachi's face. "Kawaki... you broke it!" She cried out, looking at the sand covered boy and the remains of her laboring. "You could have not buried my head, y'know!" He continued to spit out sand. "I apologize Kawaki..." Hinata chimed in, handing him a towel for him to wipe himself off with as she walked towards the bunch, possibly to see Himawari’s creation.

“Haha! You’re covered in sand Kawaki!” Boruto laughed as he watched his muscles tense up in his arms. “Shut up Boruto!” He said, seemingly taking a swing at him before Boruto ducked. “Missed me!” He yelled, running off with Himawari behind him and a smug grin on his face. “Oh… why does this always happen to me…” He groaned, sinking into the water to wash up until his eyes were at water level. Y/n could only let out a slight giggle as she observed his depressed expression. 'He really is a great addition to their family...' She thought.

“Itachi! Y/n! We’re starting up the barbeque!” Ino yelled to them, holding the skewers for kabobs. “Would it be that the best chef in the world will be cooking?” Itachi asked, hinting at Y/n. “Yep! That would be me, right?” Shisui laughed as Itachi rolled his eyes. “What! My world famous slightly charred ribs are the best! I mean you guys loved them, right?” Y/n ruffled up his hair. “Yes, Shisui, you talented, amazing chef. The charring on those ribs was just divine, so much so it took up half the meat!” He smiled at her comment.

“Y/n! Hinata! We need cooks!” Ino shouted again, looking her straight in the eyes. “You’re not cooking, Ino?” Hinata asked, approaching the grill. “Me? Cooking is more of Sai’s thing. I just go out to eat a lot. Plus, we don't really need three.” She responded. Y/n started to season the meat, alternating the pieces with vegetables on the skewers before covering them to marinate for a bit in a sauce. Hinata chopped up some lettuce and tomatoes, to make a salad, and got out the potato chips and fruit already prepared.

“Hey Kawaki, you want to play some volleyball?” Boruto asked, nudging him on the shoulder. “After lunch? With who?” He asked. “I’d like to play.” Mitsuki commented, staring right at them. “Ah… when’d you get right there Mitsuki?” Boruto asked, confused. “I’ve been here the entire time, Boruto.” He responded. “So! Mitsuki and I on a team? We’re sure to win!” He yelled enthusiastically, fist raised in the air. “Actually, if you wouldn’t mind, I would like to be with Kawaki. I was thinking it would help with our teamwork.” He insisted. “Well, okay. That cool Kawaki?” Boruto looked at the taller one, and he nodded.

“Iwabe! Get over here?” Boruto called. “What do you want, Boruto, I’m busy.” He responded. “Oh sorry, we just needed another player for volleyball!” Iwabe walked over with his hands behind his head, yawning slightly. “Eh, I guess if you really need me…” Boruto interrupted him. “Then after lunch it’s game on! Iwabe and I vs Kawaki and Mitsuki!” He yelled enthusiastically, way too pumped up for a simple game.

-

Ino was wearing a small bikini with a flower pattern on it. And a sheer coverup skirt around her waist, something Y/n slightly envied about her. ‘She's so confident… she can wear whatever…’ She thought, placing some of the skewers on the grill rack. “It’s already smelling so good!” Tenten remarked, poking her head over the meat to inhale its scent. “Perfect for those pregnancy munchies, right Y/n?” Ino said, looking at her. “Uh… um…” Y/n responded, turning to face Itachi slightly.

“Actually, she hasn’t really eaten any differently during the pregnancy.” He commented. “Really?” Sai asked, thinking back to his own memories. “Ino really ate like a pig… she went on a massive diet after she gave birth.” He said, nonchalantly. “Hey!” She screeched at Sai, ready to scold him. “Temari was the same.” Shikamaru chimed in. “At least you won’t have to go on a diet Y/n… you’ll probably just bounce right back to your usual self… lucky…” Ino frowned.

“I don’t see anything wrong with eating a lot during pregnancy, it’s natural, right? I just… haven’t been very hungry, that's all. Just very tired.” Y/n muttered, trying to calm everyone down. “Mommy, truth or dare!” Himawari shouted, peeking out from behind Hinata. “Uhm… Truth.” She replied, looking down at her energetic daughter. “Would you rather be stranded on an island with twenty other people, or not be stranded but be all alone?” Himawari asked, testing out the game she had recently learned. “Ah... this  brings me back!" Ino gasped, taking a sip of her drink with the overdramatic sigh. "Stuck on an island with 20 people, I would say... It would be much more entertaining to be around you all. I can't fathom what I would do with all that space alone." Hinata responded.

"What about you, Itachi? Truth or dare?" She asked next. "Let's not bother him, Himawari." Hinata chimed in, not wanting her to say something rude. "Ah... It's fine. I'll go with... dare. I'm feeling a bit adventurous, hmm?" He replied. "I dare you to kiss Y/n!" She laughed, as Y/n's face got red, hiding it as she turned to face the grill. "Eh, I'm sorry Itachi. You don't have to." Naruto responded for Himawari, feeling slightly awkward. "Y/n... would you be okay with that?" Itachi asked as he walked over, placing a finger under her chin to lift it up so their eyes would meet. "I mean they're married already, I'm sure they've kissed a million times!" Himawari whined in the background, Hinata slightly scolding her.

"Uh... sure... if you want to..." Y/n responded, giving a quick nod with a slight smile. It was a soft, quick peck on the lips, but to both Itachi and Y/n it was like a sacred moment of togetherness. Like a promise to always be with each other. For them, the act of a kiss wasn't just casual... it was something that was earned, and treasured. A true sign of devotion. Within the timespan of less than a second, it was like Itachi replaced her whole world, and she felt so small in comparison, hiding her blushing face as he whispered, "Thank you, I have missed that."

"See Boruto? He asked for consent. That's what a true gentleman does." Naruto mentioned to Boruto, pointing to the couple. "Yeah, I know that already! I'm not like you, old man." He spoke, lining up with a plate to get food. "Hey! What's that supposed to mean!" Naruto tried to steal the next spot in line next to Boruto but was stopped by a gloomy Sasuke. "You're making too big of a deal out of this, Naruto. Just get some food." He mumbled. Only a loud "Hmph!" came from Naruto for the rest of his time in line.

- Skips to after lunch...

"It's time... for the volleyball battle to begin!" Boruto yelled, standing in the shallow water before the partially submerged net. Iwabe was on his left, facing Kawaki. "Hey guys... it's just volleyball, you don't have to be so aggressive..." He muttered, looking at the expressions of the two boys. Their glares were intense at each other, both locked in a staring contest neither wanted to back out of. Mitsuki and Boruto alike were watching their silent feud, wondering who it was that would blink first.

"Ha!" Iwabe yelled, having watched Kawaki's eyes close shut for just a millisecond, a reflex he regretted. "What are you going on about!" He yelled back, trying to act all confused. "I don't know if you noticed, but it looks like I won." Iwabe rubbed it in. "We weren't even in a staring contest!" Kawaki tried to argue, but both knew that they had made that silent agreement and there was no getting out of it.

-

"Iwabe! Do something!" Boruto yelled, the ball flying right towards Iwabe's face. "I... I..." He just ducked, not having played volleyball before and it (rather cinematically) bounced off his head and scored a point for their team. Instances like this occurred many times during their game, both teams somewhat incompetent and not knowledgeable on the rules of volleyball.  "Kawaki, you hold your hands together, like this." Mitsuki corrected Kawaki with a demonstration. "What's the point of being a shinobi if we can't use our skills in this..." He muttered, demonstrating with his arm. "It's not fun that way! We're on a more equal playing field, here." Boruto tried to explain. In the end, the game had to be cut short and was a tie as Kawaki 'accidentally' speared the ball.

"Seriously? We were going to win that one!" Iwabe groaned. "Thanks a lot." He pointed at Kawaki. "Hmph." He responded, going to sit down. "It was a good game..." Mitsuki tried to lighten the mood. "As if..." Iwabe rolled his eyes. "You all played well!" Y/n congratulated them when they walked passed. Her eyes slowly drifted away from them as she stared at the horizon. "What are you thinking about?" Itachi asked, overlapping her hand with his. "Not much..." She replied, eyes still glued on the sky. "Hmm? I'm sure it's something." He tried to encourage her to speak. "I guess... wouldn't it be nice if b/n played volleyball with them some day? I know he's quite a bit younger... but it would be so fun for them to play with him." She spoke quietly, getting tired as the day had been long already.

"And b/n will make his own friends too... but it's a long time in the future, still. I just can't wait to meet him and raise him with you." Itachi pulled her into a tight hug, his arms wrapped around her shoulders. "Do you think I'll ever look the same again? I mean Ino said it was diffi..." She was cut off. "You look just as beautiful as you did before, my love. You're giving me such joy... by carrying our child. I don't want you to ever feel like you're not enough, okay?" He frowned. "Even Sai said that Ino ate like a pig... you don't think that way about me?" He started rubbing her shoulders, trying to take the stress and worry away. "Of course not. I wish you would indulge yourself more, anyway. It's completely natural to have a larger appetite, you don't need to limit yourself." He smiled back at her, seeing her eyes gleaming with excitement for the first time during the trip instead of anxiousness. "I think... I think I'm ready to go in the water now..." She mentioned, standing up. "There are still many hours for us to enjoy, let's not wait any longer." Itachi spoke, leading her there.

Neji Hyuga - July 3rd

It doesn’t matter what kind of argument, Neji is absolutely 99.99% sure he is correct and you are in the wrong. 

But he doesn’t want you to feel that bad about it, just let you know of his intelligence superiority (*insert eye roll*).

Kind of mean about it and very calm and collected, of course smirks if you yell at him since he knows you’ll be embarrassed when you realize your supposed stupidity.

Give it a little time, and he’ll make you come around, no matter how stubborn you are. Why want to be right when you can do what he wants to do and thinks is best, I mean he is your boyfriend/husband after all… you trust him… 

The rare chance he is wrong? Well… you might have to get Lee and Tenten over to get him to admit it with their constant prodding. Or you just give up because the chance of him changing his mind about something is almost zero. 

Will of course apologize for his behavior weeks later when you really don’t care anymore to close the issue without feeling his own embarrassment though it’s rarely a huge issue. 

Kiba Inuzuka - July 7th

Another man obsessed with the smirking, let’s be real. Unfortunately for you, that smirk is one he’s mastered and you almost can’t be mad at. It’s a special tactic you will learn to hate (and love). 

Matches your volume and than scales it up 10%, because he’s the superior one even when he’s being stupid. You yell? He yells over you. You whisper? He’ll whisper over you as well. It’s infuriating. 

He’s going to say what he wants to say first, so you have to wait your turn to make your counterargument. 

Very self aware, knows he’s being dumb and an idiot but he doesn’t care, it’s about pressing your buttons because you do care. 

What does he get out of it? Your expression is payment enough for his troubles. Thinks you’re very, very cute when you’re all mad and annoyed, slightly tired from arguing for so long as to him it’s a game. 

He will NEVER apologize sincerely unless you cry, making you come crawling back to him no matter how bad he feels. It’s more enjoyable that way. 

But if you do cry, then he’ll continue to whisper apologizes into the next month, and probably mention it on your next anniversary no matter how many times you say it’s okay and forgive him. He needs your constant approval. 

Shikaku Nara - July 15th

He’s stoic, but he cares, obviously. You can just see it in his eyes. 

His smile is subtle, yet hypnotic and you just can’t seem to get a grasp on how it gets you every single time. 

If you’re really mad at him, he’ll give you space while contemplating what to do for maximum effectiveness. It’s time efficient and gives the best results. 

He knows exactly what you need when you need it and in 5 minutes you’ll have your favorite foods and cuddles regardless of who started it, since it’s about you and he enjoys that time as well. 

If you really did something stupid, then he might play around a bit. You go to blow off steam and slowly realize something about the alleyway shadows making you drawn back.

No partying for you, he knows what’s best and it’s unsafe. He wouldn’t want you to get hurt due to him, he’s much better than that. The safest place for you is wrapped up in his arms. 

One apology is all you need, how could you get mad at him for long? It’s so much nicer for you both if you just comply,  as stress is gone and you can reap the benefits. 

Genma Shiranui - July 17th

He’s a tease. 

Somehow there are more of those guys who are constantly smirking all the time, him being one. It’s probably one of the easiest expressions to make with a senbon in his mouth. 

He’s fairly chill and laid back with more rationality than most men, so if it’s really something big then he just sits down and has a conversation with you. 

Unless it really strikes a nerve he’d just accept everything you throw at him and move on with his life, because after a while of doing missions, he stopped caring about the little things as much. 

You, however are not a little thing in his world. If you’re happy, he’s happy, and so sometimes its better to just admit defeat for the sake of said happiness. 

Mind games are kind of his thing, and it’s hot, but it’s also really annoying sometimes. You’re mad he messed up the kitchen? His evil guilt trip puts a pause on your anger and you just end up cleaning it yourself. Truly despicable. 

Arguments don’t happen often, since he’s not home most of the time and you often have to spend time being mad on your own when he leaves, another tactic of his. Mission timing is just way too convenient for him sometimes, bound to make you suspicious. 

In the case you do hit a nerve, he’ll yell, but it won’t last long. It’s a rare occurrence, and you end up coming to a good compromise most of the time, so it’s never really a big deal. 

Sasuke Uchiha - July 23rd

He doesn’t care. Really, he doesn’t. 

You want something he doesn’t? He’ll ignore you, but if you decide to be particularly bratty and annoying, he’ll treat you accordingly. 

“Shut up, brat, I’m working.” Did he take it to far when you just wanted to go get ice cream? Sure… but it doesn’t matter, you’ll be fine in an hour (hopefully). 

Tears fall? It happens all the time… at least that’s what he justified it as. He feels a bit bad… but you’re still here and he has better things to do than listening to your blubbering.

You leave the house? No, not without his permission (he would never admit he was afraid of losing you…). He’s coming after you in two seconds and no matter how fast you run, he will find you and drag you back home and you will learn to not leave the house again.

No apologies then, you were still being bad and you were in the wrong. You keep yelling at him? You want more freedom? Brats don’t get freedom, you need him and he knows this is for the best. 

You finally have had enough of his behavior? Then you finally get the “I’m so sorry…” you’d been waiting for. He breaks down, holding on to you for dear life and begging you not to leave. How could you go now? He needs you just as much as you need him (you wouldn’t really leave him but you’re fed up).

Despite it's minimalistic and dull appearance, the gathering hall where all the Hyuga clan members had met so many times was a place where so many memories had been made, and so many people had been met by Y/n, including Neji. The cold feeling that came from the Hyuga elders was something that was often dismissed, even when talking about things as serious as the coming war to those who were not trained shinobi.

Lessons of tea serving and etiquette had been taught in the room, by the women in the clan charged with passing down their skills to the future generations. Announcements of the happiest occurrences, and the saddest passings had been spoken and echoed off those very walls. But even such as the one that was always expected, was never ready to be heard. Specifically, when it was finally time for everyone to leave for the war.

Shouldn't one who had grown fairly close to him, be happy for Neji when he walked up to the front next to Hiashi and the clan elders, seeing people quietly cheering for the genius prodigy that would be representing them. But like anything, it was a war. The sad fact of it all, was, that anyone could pass no matter their talent, which was the only justification Y/n could give to that feeling throughout all the guilt.

It was true that her relationship with him had improved overtime, especially since the announcement of the war had come. They weren't that friendly with each other still, but the stoic facade that was his expression seemed to have melted away slightly in Y/n's presence. The lack of acknowledgement had dwindled, her even picking up on the eye contact they shared for a short moment while he stood facing the crowd, a hint of softness and appreciation almost able to be captured, something that would have never occurred months before.

It felt like a crime, really, to have any doubts about his abilities in combat after all those years of training he underwent, so much so that his reassuring soft smile after the assembly wasn't close to enough to calm Y/n's nerves. If anything, it heightened them. The idea that he was finally leaving, only a few hours after that morning, easily made her feel lightheaded, so it was good he stopped her when he did.

It was a collected grab of the arm, one that was oddly familiar at that point, in which he pulled her to the side. "What's with that look on your face?" He asked, an obvious frown and expression of nervousness evident. "Look on my face?" Y/n responded, clearly confused. "Nevermind. Anyways, I'm leaving in a few hours. I thought that I at least owed you a friendly goodbye." Frustration filled her mind at that, furrowing her brow. "You don't owe me anything, Neji. I thought we clarified that." She scowled, tilting her head with newfound confidence with his strange behavior.

"Well, I'll be back before you know it. And then you can bother me again as usual." He smirked, letting her arm go and starting to walk out to meet with Hinata and the rest of the Hyuga's heading off to the Land of Lightning. "Neji... Your lunch." Her timidness caught up with her again, and something about that moment made the day feel like any other, which was comforting. The bento box with a cloth tied around it hung off her wrist as he grabbed it. No words were said, naturally, seeing as it was Neji, only another one of his small smiles and a nod of his head, things that were returned by Y/n as she walked off herself, trying to focus less on the predicament and more on preparing for the moment he arrived back.

-

Hours passed, and it could only be assumed that they were long gone on their journey. Still, Y/n couldn't bring herself to leave and head home. She wanted to try out some new recipes, as she learned he preferred the mackerel she cooked and had made the goal of making a portable nishin soba dish. Despite him not being there anymore, sitting underneath the tree near the training grounds made it feel like he still was. She could almost  see him training like she had witnessed so many times before if she squinted her eyes, but reality flashed between the scenes and the log was standing solemnly alone, avoiding the constant abuse after so many days of it being routine.

Maybe she was too attached, some might say obsessed, but it wasn't like anyone else cared. Just the thought that possibly, just maybe, he might have been thinking about her while he leaped through the trees, was enough to keep her sitting there, wanting to be as close as possible to him in these times. Y/n had always seen the way Hinata was with Naruto back when they were genin, and had never understood why one would fall for him, when Neji was right there. But she couldn't help but wonder now, is this what Hinata felt like? It was something to keep her mind busy as she pondered, at least until a voice broke her train of thought.

Read the disclaimer if you skipped it!

"Y/n?" A voice called, one that belonged to Hanabi. "Shouldn't you be at home? What are you doing?" She asked, sitting beside Y/n. The two had never been close, though they were the same age. Both busy on their own paths, as a shinobi life was vigorous and busy, they had rarely talked to each other. "Oh... well... it's just..." Y/n started, though was quickly cut off. "I get it. But if I were you, I wouldn't be that worried about him." She tried to relate. "Big sis knows him better than me... but you've seen him train. He's a genius. I'm sure he'll be okay." Hanabi gave a reassuring smile.

"If anything, I'm worried about her! - I mean, she's great and all, but I can't help but think..." Hanabi mumbled.  "The land of lightning is a long way away... I heard they were going to be stationed on the south part of the border with the land of frost." She continued. "The land of frost?" Y/n questioned, not having heard of that land in the small bubble that was her life.  "Yeah... They just left a bit ago, I guess they're already on their way now." They continued to discuss it.

"Y'know I'm surprised you didn't follow him all the way there." Hanabi mentioned randomly, pausing the conversation. "I didn't really think it was an option... I mean I didn't know where they would be... and I wouldn't be able to get there in time to do or see anything..." Y/n frowned. "Well you know where they're gonna be now... plus you got me. If I'm being honest, it'd be really fun to go on an adventure instead of being stuck in the village right now. Nothing to do, really." Hanabi smiled.

"Yeah... It would." Y/n nodded in agreement. "Well then, let's go!" Hanabi got up, holding her hand out to pull Y/n up. "Right now?" She asked. "Well yeah, if you want to make it in time." Hanabi gestured for her to take her hand. "I can teach you how to move through the forest, it'd be a whole lot faster than walking on roads." She started, earning another nod from Y/n.

-

After gathering up some basic ninja tools and a large stock of food pills, and showing Y/n how to awkwardly hold a kunai as well as jumping through trees, they were finally ready to set off. "No home cooked lunch box today!" Hanabi smiled, jumping onto a tree with Y/n following, trying to recover from a slight stumble. "You're a natural!" She said, watching Y/n trip over a branch. "Uh... yeah... definitely a natural." Y/n laughed softly.

In order to proceed faster, Y/n ate more and more food pills, gaining more energy and speed with each one and recovering from the obvious fatigue quicker. At least after a few hours, they were finally closing in on the border of the land of fire with the land of hot water. "Well this is where i'll be taking my leave." Hanabi handed Y/n the map, a compass, and her food pills. "Might be a bit hard to navigate, but i'm sure you'll figure it out!" She smiled for the last time. "You're leaving?" Y/n asked, surprised. "Well, I have to get back to the village, or people will be worried. Good luck Y/n!" She said, before starting to leave.

It was at that moment that Y/n felt a surge of energy. She was on her own, and it was up to her to get to Neji. It wasn't very clear to her what she would or could do for him, but she hoped, that maybe, if there was someone cheering for him, if there was someone who was waiting for him and he knew that, that he might try all that harder to keep living. Because even he didn't know how much she needed him. That it was his life that mattered, not anyone else's.

-

The battlefield was littered with corpses when she finally arrived, a long time after she had started her journey, and she was quick to scout the area for Neji. Shinobi were still there, fighting against a few of the white zetsu clones that were still occupying the area. As she moved closer to them, chewing on more food pills as her vision was already getting blurry, a shinobi finally noticed her.

"Who are you?" He asked, pointing to his headband. "I was looking for someone... Neji?" She asked quietly. "Neji Hyuga? He left with some of the others to assist the first division." He pointed north on her map. "But you should head out, clearly you're not a shinobi. I don't know how you even made it this far." He advised. "I have to go. Thank you, though." She started heading off again. "You'd probably be doing more harm than help, you know." He warned. That was something that she wasn't even thinking about at the time.

Hours later, a half asleep Y/n was fully awake after hearing the loud roar that echoed through the air. "Maybe it's just in my head?" She mumbled, eating more food pills to keep her going. She knew she would be too sore to move a muscle when she got home, and would probably have to sleep for days, but she was this far into her almost pointless journey, so why stop now?

-

READ THE DISCLAIMER IF YOU STILL SKIPPED PLEASE! - I know it is awful, I apologize.

Finally clearing the forest, it was clear that the noise was not just in her head. A giant monster, whatever it was, was miles away covering the battlefield. Despite the obvious danger, somehow, she continued on, now as determined as ever. 'If I'm good at anything, i'm at least a decent shield.' She thought, hoping she could be of use if needed. After continuing her sprint despite the burnout, she was only a minute away, finally able to get a glimpse of Neji, an unmistakable figure even through the battlefield. She gained a newfound appreciation for the hours she spent avoiding sleep and staying up to watch Neji, her able to handle the lack of it much better than others would.

Suddenly, the giant mass that was the ten tails, started to shoot wooden projectiles into the air at the shinobi, the sound like shattering glass as they rippled through the air at an incredible speed. As they ricocheted off the ground in the background when dodged, Y/n was forced to duck down to avoid getting hit, but was relieved to see Naruto, then Hinata in the line of fire, and not Neji. That was at least her thought in the split second that it took for Neji to jump in front of them. "Neji!" Y/n screamed, though it was muffled by the sounds of the battle, no one hearing it, let alone Neji himself. She was only a minute away. "I... I could have saved him... I..." She muttered out, tears falling down on her hands as she got up, running closer to see him. 'Maybe... maybe he'll be okay... if he gets a medic...' But in the moments that she was only some yards away, she could see it in his eyes. There was no saving him, because there was no one there to show him that they were waiting for him. Waiting for him to come home. He couldn't see her, how his pain wasn't just his own, how it was shared. Just like the caged birds on both their foreheads, though he had gone through so much worse, they were in it together. He just needed to see that.

It felt like being crushed by a boulder, like her entire life was crumbling apart. No one noticed her, no one saw her, and even Naruto and Hinata, who broke promises and never cared, weren't even sorry enough to save him. Those words the shinobi spoke finally got to her throughout the chaos, denial quickly approaching as she closed her eyes, hoping it was just a dream. Even if she was to stab them both with kunai, like she wanted to, she knew Neji wouldn't have wanted her to do that. A single second she could have taken away from Naruto's time could be the difference between life or death for everyone in the world.

Swallowing her grief, it was time to make her way home. She was one minute away from saving the most important person in the world to her. The one time she wasn't there was the one time it really mattered, and now he was gone, and she herself felt dead. He lied, at least that was what he thought when he pictured her face when she would hear the news in the village, not having noticed her presence. But part of him wondered, could he still keep his promise? Well the light was getting closer, he decided to think about it later.