#nhmonth23

Pretending can be a tricky game. 

For some people, it's a breeze—they can slip in and out of different personas as easily as flipping a switch, putting on a convincing act at the drop of a hat or a snap of their fingers. 

Some people actually have a closet full of masks for their pretending, ready to wear whichever one fits the moment perfectly to hide behind. They switch between these masks as easily as changing clothes, effortlessly adapting to any situation like it's second nature.

Like if it was nothing, nothing at all. 

For others, pretending is a struggle—a constant effort that takes a lot of trial and error before they finally get the hang of it.

But for Naruto, pretending wasn't just difficult. It wasn't a minor bump in the road he'd get over soon. It wasn't something he'd get used to or get good at with time or a bit more effort.

No. 

He didn't have the luxury of switching between masks or hiding behind them whenever he wanted, like some people. Pretending wasn't a game or something he did for fun—it was a draining, relentless battle that wore him down every single day.

Pretending was, without a doubt, the hardest thing Naruto had ever faced—the toughest challenge he'd ever had to endure.

And he'd faced plenty of challenges.

As one of the top Japanese male ice skaters in the world, he'd been put through the wringer more times than he could count.

Countless hours of grueling practice, intense competitions, and crushing expectations had pushed him to his limits time and time again, demanding that he give nothing less than his absolute best. 

Each session was a test of endurance for him, and every routine was a shot for him to outshine the competition.

After all, Naruto was a pretty driven man, always pushing himself past the limits set by others to prove himself and excel. And on top of the grueling physical demands, he also had to confront the doubts cast on him as a male skater—doubts that seemed to shadow every step he took.

It was tough. 

Really tough. 

Every time he laces up his skates and hits the ice, he's up against a challenge. But it's one he actually enjoys—the ice, the skating, the music, the cheers, the sweat, the exhaustion, and, most of all, proving everyone wrong.

He loves proving all the doubters wrong—naysayers who said he couldn't do it and the debbie downers who whined that ice skating was a women's sport. 

Naruto even gets a kick out of showing up the critics who claimed he was confused about his identity, out of touch with himself, and that ice skating made him less of a man.

Indeed, proving those people wrong by doing what he loved was fun.

Naruto has spent countless hours on the ice—skating was all he'd ever known, the rhythm of the blades, the chill of the rink, and the thrill of the performance were deeply ingrained in him. Every glide and spin had become second nature, an integral part of who he was.

But there was one thing that stood apart from all of that…

Or rather, one person.

Hinata Hyūga. 

His skating partner.

Naruto stood in the designated waiting area near the rink, his eyes fixed on her as she skated across the ice gracefully. He watched Hinata from the sidelines, waiting for his cue, the precise moment when the music would signal him to join Hinata on the rink.

But for now, it was just her. Just Hinata.

And Naruto watched her in awe. 

He was always in awe of her. 

The blonde skater watched almost in a trance as his partner performed with her opening solo for the prestigious "ISU Grand Prix Of Figure Skating" in Hollywood, LA, California. 

The intensity of the competition was palpable, and the stakes had never felt higher.

The entire arena was hushed, with only the soft scraping of her white skates on the ice, the sweeping classical music, and the occasional gasps and murmurs from the crowd breaking the silence. Every spectator, even the judges, held their breath, captivated by Hinata's mesmerizing performance, all eyes glued to the rink.

Naruto's included.

Hinata's costume dress was a breathtaking piece, its fabric fluttering around her like the delicate feathers of a swan gliding through a gentle breeze. The lights from the arena overhead danced off the glittering embellishments of her costume, causing her dress to shimmer and shine. 

Her costume was the perfect fit to the competition theme: Black Swan. 

Hinata's dress was a striking blend of black and white, split down the middle. The left side was a deep, velvety black, adorned with shimmering sequins that caught the arena's light with every move she made. 

The right side of her dress was a pristine, snowy white, contrasting beautifully with the dark side, adorned with tiny sparkles and swirls. 

Her long gloves followed the same theme, one black and one white, each decorated with delicate sparkles that extended from her hands up to her forearms, matching her dress perfectly. Her usually long, midnight blue hair was elegantly styled into a neat bun on the top of her head, completing her flawless look for the competition. 

Naruto wore a matching outfit to hers, of course. 

He wore a one-piece costume that began with a pristine white at the top, gradually transitioning into a deep black down his toned torso and legs, with white swirls accentuating the color shift.

His right sleeve was all white, while his left sleeve was solid black, creating a striking contrast similar to Hinata's costume.

His costume fit the theme, sure, and it matched his partner's costume, but it was nowhere near as spectacular as Hinata's.

No way.

Hinata seemed to nail the theme perfectly, gliding in sync with the music—a classic piece that everyone would surely recognize.

"Swan Lake" by Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky. 

She surely embodied a swan, her every movement smooth and graceful, just like a swan gliding effortlessly across a lake. The way she floated across the ice, her costume shimmering with each turn, made it look as if she was dancing on air.

Naruto couldn't help but be completely mesmerized by how beautifully Hinata brought the theme to life. 

She was utterly breathtaking.

Graceful yet powerful—that's how Hinata always skated. 

Watching her was like peering straight into her soul with each performance.

She poured everything into her routine. 

She always did. 

From her delicate facial expressions to the emotions that flowed through her movements, and the graceful sweep of her arms as they reached out and then drew back—each performance was a stunning story told through her skating.

This time was no different.

As Hinata performed her solo tonight, she told a powerful story about the strength that comes from being vulnerable. Her movements to the music spoke of the courage it takes to expose one's true self, capturing the delicate balance between strength and authenticity.

It was truly extraordinary.

And on top of that, Hinata made the routine they'd been perfecting for months—through countless rehearsals, late nights, and early mornings—look so damn effortless. 

Hinata glided smoothly from one move to the next, transitioning seamlessly between spins and jumps, just as they had practiced together, just as she had come to memorize down to the finest detail.

Her spins were flawless. 

Naruto watched in awe as she effortlessly transitioned into a fast-paced layback spin, finishing with a graceful camel spin that left delicate circular marks on the ice. 

Her jumps were just as stunning, with perfect double axels and triple lutzes that had her soaring and spinning through the air, leaving the crowd breathless.

She landed on her blades with a satisfying clank each time, back on her feet like a true professional.

Hinata nailed every move flawlessly, putting on a jaw-dropping performance that would definitely set the bar high for the other skaters and likely earn them both some serious points with the judges.

But Naruto wasn't thinking about the competition at all. 

He wasn't thinking about their potential scores. He wasn't concerned about the judges' opinions or even his routine when it was his turn to join Hinata on the ice.

No, he wasn't thinking about any of that.

Naruto's focus was solely on her, the woman dazzling him from the ice, whose lavender eyes occasionally met his own. 

Once. 

Twice. 

Frequently, Hinata glanced at him as she danced across the rink, her lavender eyes seeking him out from the waiting area, hidden from the audience.

Each time their eyes locked—deep blue meeting soft lavender—it felt like the world around them melted further and further into a blur…

…until it was just the two of them. 

The audience's loud wows and awes, the judges' scrutinizing looks, the flashing cameras, the bright arena lights, the announcer's voices, and even the stadium itself—all of it just faded away.

It was only them—just them.

And soon enough, Hinata wasn't skating for the crowd but for…

…him.

It was always like this between them: fleeting, longing but secretive looks where their gazes created warm, private moments just for them. 

Every time they performed together, whenever their hands touched or their bodies brushed close, they were drawn into a private world of their own making. 

Those looks they exchanged, every second of every day, were a silent yearning for something they both desired but couldn't fully embrace—a longing that always seemed just out of reach.

Naruto couldn't ignore what he felt. He couldn't pretend. 

Sure, he could try. 

Sure, he could push his feelings aside. He could convince himself that what he felt was just a passing phase, and that he will just get over it soon. 

Sure, he could try to act like it didn't bother him and play along, but deep down, he knew he'd only be lying to himself.

The feelings he had been struggling with for so long were impossible to ignore now.

A mistake that's come to consume him. 

When Naruto first teamed up with Hinata, he signed a contract that was clear about one thing: no intimate relationships. 

As long as he pursued ice skating professionally with a partner, he wasn't allowed to fall in love or let emotions get in the way of his career.

He knew that.

They both did. 

Naruto always understood what he was signing up for, knew the strict rules, and was clear on what was expected of him.

Because of this, he knew he shouldn't be feeling this way and was fully aware of the risks of letting these emotions take over. He knew exactly how his coach would react if she found out—what she'd do if she discovered his secret.

Their secret. 

Naruto knew the stakes. 

If their secret were ever discovered, it would mean the end of their figure skating careers.

Everything they'd worked so hard for—the endless hours of practice, the sacrifices made, the competitions won, the fame they'd gained, and their very dreams—were at risk of being ruined.

All because love had somehow crept in and gotten in the way.

Suddenly, the music built to a crescendo, growing louder and louder all around, snapping Naruto out of his thoughts.

His cue to take the ice. 

"Damn it," He muttered, shaking his head to snap himself out of it. That was a mistake—a big one. 

He couldn't afford to space out. 

Not here. 

Not now.

He took a deep, steadying breath, pushing aside the swirling thoughts and annoying emotions that clung to him. 

Then he exhaled, letting it all go.

It's showtime. 

Naruto rubbed his hands together to shake off the tension, and took one more calming breath.

"Here goes." He whispered to himself, before finally, darting out onto the ice.

The icy chill of the arena hit Naruto instantly, chilling his face, body, and legs. The cold air blended with the crisp, slippery feel of the ice beneath his skates. 

Naruto could never grow tired of it—the ice. It was a feeling so familiar, as natural as breathing to him at this point. Every time he stepped onto it, it felt like reconnecting with an old friend he always looked forward to seeing again.

And it felt that way now. 

His taut calf muscles tightened with each powerful push he gave his legs, his black skates carving a swift, graceful path across the ice.

The ice hummed a satisfying, almost musical whisper under Naruto's skates, grounding him in the moment. He mentally rehearsed his routine, syncing with it as he joined Hinata on the rink.

Hinata was already in position, gliding effortlessly across the ice toward him. In that moment, Naruto could see nothing but her—her radiant smile, the rosy flush on her cheeks from the cold, and the sparkle in her lavender eyes. 

He met her in the center of the rink with a big grin, and they seamlessly slipped into a synchronized spin. They twirled around each other, close yet so far. 

They didn't touch—just gazed at each other, eyes locked the whole time. 

Blue meeting lavender, once again.

The sight of Naruto and Hinata finally skating together, their chemistry ignited instantly, sending fireworks of excitement across the entire arena. Their connection was evident even on the arena's TVs, causing the crowd to instantly erupt into a frenzy. 

Gasps and cheers merged into a collective roar that filled the entire space.

The announcers, just as thrilled, could barely contain their excitement over the intercom.

"And here he comes, folks—Naruto Uzumaki, joining his partner Hinata Hyūga after her stunning introductory solo!"

"The way they connect is absolutely breathtaking. Just so breathtaking. This is partner skating at its finest, and we are in for a treat tonight, folks!"

Now together, Naruto and Hinata instantly transitioned into their routine, as they'd done it a million times before.

Just for this moment. 

Hinata took the lead, maintaining their synchronized spin as she gracefully lifted one arm to the rhythm of the music, watching as Naruto mirrored her movements flawlessly. His arm swept down and up above his head in a sweeping arc, just like hers, as if she were looking into a mirror.

She moved her other arm the same way, and Naruto followed suit. 

Next, Hinata extended her hand toward him this time, her fingers forming a dramatic claw before slowly curling into a fist as she pulled away, and Naruto mirrored her.

But they never quite touched. 

Each time they reached, they always pulled back. 

Reach. Retreat. Reach. 

Closer and closer, but never quite touching. 

Like a cycle. 

A painful one.

This part of their routine always spoke to them. It shouldn't have—really. It shouldn't have had any impact on them, but..

…it did. 

It perfectly mirrored the feelings they had for each other, always managing to leave a poignant ache in their hearts—a longing for something they both wanted but couldn't have.

No matter how many times they repeated it. 

No matter how many times they practiced it.

The ache remains.

Naruto's eyes revealed such pain, such raw emotion as he watched Hinata glide backward from the center of the rink, moving away from him and further along the ice.

She kept her knees slightly bent, her legs extending and crossing each other like the delicate sway of a ballet's legs. Her skates traced elegant arcs on the ice as she spiraled backward, leaving a long trail behind. 

But even as Hinata drifted away from Naruto, her hand stretched out toward him, her eyes pleading for him to take it. 

Naruto followed her, reaching back.

His arm stretched out through the cold air, determined to bridge the gap between them.

They reached for each other, incorporating a few individual spins where they spun perfectly in sync, even landing together, before turning and reaching out again.

They drew out the moment for dramatic effect, with Hinata gliding smoothly backward and Naruto advancing just enough until their hands finally….

…met.

But when their hands finally touched, it seemed to ignite a powerful rush of warmth that pulsed through their gloves and into their palms like a heartbeat, spreading through their bodies in soothing waves.

The sensation felt incredible—better than anything they had experienced before. 

They had touched countless times, but this..

This was different.

The moment Naruto's large fingers slid between the gaps of Hinata's smaller ones, and curled around her hand, a deep, unparalleled warmth unfurled in both of their hearts. 

The surprising intensity of the warmth made them both gasp softly. Their fingers instinctively tightened around each other, the connection so strong and reassuring that they couldn't bear to let go. 

Not now.

Not so soon. 

Keeping her hand in his, Naruto guided Hinata's arm over her head and twisted her in a graceful spin perfectly in sync with the music. He skated himself over in a smooth glide, positioning himself directly behind her like her shadow. 

Close behind her, he began sliding his hands gently along her arms, and Hinata couldn't hold back the slight moan that escaped her lips. 

Naruto touched her now, and he took it slow.

Along her chest, his gloved fingers brushed the fabric of her costume, feeling the rise and fall of her breath. His hands moved down the gentle curve of her torso, tracing the contours of her muscles, and he felt her body react to his touch almost instantly, with soft shivers and quivers.

Finally, his hands reached her waist, holding her hips firmly yet gently.

Even in the cold of the stadium, with a chill all around them, Hinata felt warm beneath his fingertips.

She was savoring the moment, just as she always did, whenever she was in Naruto's arms.

His touch was always gentle, but now, to Hinata, it felt almost heightened. Every brush of his fingers felt like a trail of fire on her skin, each caress sending electric shivers down her spine.

It was like time slowed to a crawl, and all she could feel was Naruto.

His breath as it brushed against her ears and cheeks, warm and steady. The heat of his toned body as it pressed so close to hers, making her acutely aware of every inch of him...

And his touch...

Hinata always treasured the moments when Naruto touched her. 

Those fleeting instances when his hands met her skin always seem to send a delightful warmth coursing through her body, radiating like a beacon. Whether his strong yet gentle hands glided along her arms, gripped her hips, or lifted her into the air, a soothing, irresistible heat enveloped her whenever he made contact with…her body.

It shouldn't have felt this way, but it did—like a perfect antidote to her touch-starved dreams.

Hinata glanced back at him with a breathless look that made Naruto's heart skip a beat. Her lavender eyes drew him in every time, their expressiveness saying more than words ever could. 

And as he gazed into them now, they seemed to speak to him, whispering…

"Please touch me more, Naruto-kun. Touch me."

It was a gentle, unspoken plea, a tender whisper in her eyes as she looked over her shoulder at him, standing tall behind her.

Naruto bit his lip. 

Truly, he wished he could touch her more. 

Her body always responded so beautifully to his touch, expanding and contracting as if he were the air she breathed, always returning to him with a graceful, magnetic pull. It was intoxicating.

He craved more. He craved—

The blonde skater took a deep breath, trying to clear his mind. Again. 

Reluctant as he was, and how good it was to hold Hinata, he knew he had to put an end to it.

After all, this was a serious competition.

With that realization, Naruto broke away from their intimate moment, shaking off the titillating effect of touching Hinata, and his expression turned serious again. He refocused and shifted his attention to the next part of their routine. 

But when he did, it seemed as if time snapped back to its usual pace, flowing normally like it did for everyone else.

Naruto grasped her waist firmly, and as if on cue, Hinata bent her knees, poised and ready, just like he was. 

The split-second cue he had been waiting for.

With a smooth lift, he sent her soaring into the air in a high twist. Her dress billowed out around her in a perfect spiral, drawing gasps from the crowd as it fluttered like a blooming flower.

Naruto watched as she flew high into the air, spinning gracefully. And in that quick moment, he caught a glimpse of her smile. 

There was an unspoken trust in that smile, a deep trust in him. Because she knew that whenever she fell, he'd always be there to catch her.

Just like now. 

As Hinata began her descent, Naruto was ready. He lifted his arms high and, with practiced precision, caught her around the waist.

He felt that familiar rush of relief and joy, knowing Hinata was secure in his hands after her aerial stunt. Safe and sound. 

Naruto held her close for a moment, savoring the warmth of her body against his, before gently lowering her back to the ice.

As they continued skating together, the audience seemed to blur further and further away until it was only the two of them, as if no one else existed. 

They looked into each other's eyes and suddenly...

Time didn't matter.

The competition didn't matter.

The judges or their scores didn't matter.

It was just them.

Just like in all their performances, Naruto and Hinata stunned the crowd with their chemistry. They moved together on the ice with such closeness, showing raw emotion through their every move and expression that the audience could actually feel. 

It left everyone breathless. 

The music was captivating from start to finish, flowing through every part of their routine. Every spin, every lift, and every glide of their skates across the ice, the music was there, as if guiding them. 

Hinata's grace paired perfectly with Naruto's strength, like yin and yang. Their choreography, whether synchronized or solo, blended together on the ice, revealing not just their countless hours of practice but also the deep understanding they shared. 

Their love. 

It was evident, no matter how hard they tried to hide it.

Their synchronicity was almost magical, like they were of one mind, one body, one soul. 

When Hinata jumped, Naruto was right there to catch her. 

When she spun, he spun, matching her moves perfectly. 

Whenever she reached for him, he was always ready to clasp her hand and guide her.

There was no escaping what they felt. 

The longer their performance went on, that feeling between them seemed to intensify.

It was new and exhilarating, different from anything they had felt before in previous performances or practices, as if it began anew the moment they first touched tonight.

Every time their hands touched or their eyes locked, that feeling inside them just kept growing stronger.

But reality would ruin it for them each time, reminding them that no matter how strong their feelings were, they couldn't act on them.

They couldn't.

They shouldn't.

They…

Hinata couldn't take it anymore. 

As their routine continued, she began to feel the full weight of everything. 

The unspoken feelings she'd been holding in, the constant longing to be close to Naruto, and the pressure to maintain their perfect image—it was all starting to overwhelm her.

She'd managed to keep it together for so long, but even she had her limits.

Tonight, she reached her breaking point.

As they approached the end of their performance, instead of the usual thrill that would sweep over her, she was overwhelmed by a deep, profound sadness.

Naruto sensed it immediately. 

He knew her too well not to notice. 

As the music began to wind down and the final chords echoed through the arena, he drew her into a tight embrace at the center of the rink. Their bodies were pressed close, the warmth of their breath mingling with the chilly air. Their faces were so close he could feel her every breath on his skin, and their eyes met, saying everything words couldn't express.

They held their position, panting and sweating, mostly satisfied, until the last notes of the music faded into silence.

But as soon as the music ended, the applause from the crowd surged through the stadium, a thunderous wave of sound that echoed endlessly in their ears.

With that, Naruto and Hinata reluctantly pulled away, masking their true feelings behind the broad smiles they had perfected and displayed time and time again.

They waved to the audience and the flashing cameras, even taking a hand-in-hand bow to mark the end of their performance.

The announcers' voices boomed through the speaker in no time, hyping up their performance with excitement.

"Ladies and gentlemen, what a show! Let's hear it for Japan's premier ice skating duo, Naruto Uzumaki and Hinata Hyūga! 

"Give these two a big round of applause for another unforgettable performance!"

The announcers gave them one last shout-out, showering them with praise and cheers that would've made Hinata feel overjoyed on another day—grateful, accomplished even. 

But not now.

She didn't know what had came over her.

She didn't know why she had done it. 

Yet, she turned to Naruto, her face showing a sadness she couldn't keep hidden anymore. Her eyes, usually so bright and joyful, were now clouded with a deep sorrow that instantly wiped the smile from Naruto's face. 

And before he could even speak, to react even, she spoke to him, whispered to him. 

She whispered one word, and he heard it clearly. 

"Gomennasai."

Hinata let go of his hand and sped off across the ice, leaving him behind before he could say a single word. 

He gasped and reached out toward her retreating figure.

"H-Hinata-chan!" Naruto called out, but she didn't respond. She didn't turn back or slow down; she just kept skating, moving further and further away from him until she vanished through the designated gate leading backstage.

The blonde stood there, frozen, as the cheers of the crowd faded into the background. Yet, even now, he could still feel the warmth of Hinata's touch lingering in his outstretched palm.

Naruto frowned.

'Pretending is difficult for you too, isn't it, Hinata-chan?'

Continue Reading On Wattpad Or AO3.

The Beginning 

17th century.

1600s.

---

Naruto Uzumaki 

Naruto wasn't supposed to love.

He had taken a solemn oath—never to love, never to wed, never to father children.

He wasn't meant to fall for anyone.

Certainly not Hinata Hyūga—the Princess of the Kingdom of Konoha, the delicacy of the land, the diamond of the ton. 

Not to mention, she was the daughter of Hiashi Hyūga himself. He was a king, a formidable ruler known throughout the land for his unwavering authority and strict governance—a man of principles, tradition, and nobility.

A man of steel. 

Having such a man as a father meant that Hinata's upbringing was meticulously planned down to the finest detail. From childhood to adulthood, she was taught to walk with poise, to speak with eloquence, and to conduct herself with the dignity befitting a princess. 

Her every move was scrutinized, and her every action was held to the highest standards. 

Her attire was always immaculate, her manners impeccable, and her education comprehensive. She was trained in the fine arts, fluent in several languages, and educated in the intricate politics of the court. She was even skilled in musical instruments, having mastered the piano, harp, and violin. 

Hinata was groomed to be flawless, and untouchable. 

Absolutely perfect. 

And that is what she became—a beacon of perfection in the eyes of society, more than suitable to one day marry, bear children, and assist the Hyūga lineage flourish and prosper. 

Hinata was the epitome of beauty and grace, off-limits to all except suitors with suitable titles—a precious gem that no commoner or knight could ever hope to touch.

Certainly not a knight like him—not Naruto.

He was her royal guard, a position of great honor. He was meant to safeguard her, to be by her side for all of her days, to protect her and remain loyal—not to love her.

She was supposed to be off-limits to him. Yet, he crossed those limits. 

He fell in love with her.

Naruto recalled the subtle moments when it all began—the fleeting smiles, the accidental touches, the stolen glances, not just from him, but from her too. 

Her gaze began to linger on him just a second longer than usual, and in those moments, he saw a spark of something more in Hinata's shy eyes—an unspoken connection, a shared understanding that he couldn't ignore.

At first, Naruto thought it was just him.

He figured he was just imagining things. But then he started to see that spark in Hinata's eyes more and more—a twinkle of longing, a yearning for the freedom she saw in him. 

Each interaction, each shared glance, built a bridge between them, one that was both exhilarating but terrifying. 

It felt so new. 

...so wrong.

Naruto wasn't sure how it all happened. 

The progression from duty to love was a blur. It was as if one day he was merely her protector, and the next, his heart was entirely hers. The line between his oath and his feelings had blurred, and he suddenly found himself drawn to Hinata in ways he could neither control nor comprehend.

It was the greatest victory of his life.

And the greatest mistake of his life.

Nights in the moonlit garden of Konoha palace were where they began to meet in secret. 

One night led to another, and another, and before long, they were meeting almost every night.

They would spend their evenings together under the starry night sky. They would sit on the soft grass, surrounded by the fragrant blooms, and talk for hours. They shared their days, struggles, dreams—anything and everything. It didn't matter to them, as long as they were together.

They would even have playful moments where they chased each other through the garden, past the flowers, and under the stars. 

Naruto recalls the sound of Hinata's laughter echoing through the night, her delicate hands clutching her dress as she ran, her face glowing with happiness.

And he would chase after her. Always.

"Catch me, Naruto-kun! Catch me!" She would cheer.

And indeed, he would catch her, their laughter mingling as they collapsed onto the soft grass, breathless and happy.

These moments became the only light in Naruto's world.

Hinata became the only light in his world.

The sweetness of her smile, the warmth of her embrace, her lavender eyes full of love, her silky midnight blue hair, her sweet scent, her heartfelt laugh, and her gentle spirit—all of it stayed with him.

Deep in his heart. 

Day after day, despite the risk, despite the danger, despite duty or even mere common sense, the two were drawn into an ever-going routine. 

Princess and knight by day.

And lovers by night.

Both were always eager for nightfall, when Hinata would slip out of her bed chamber, and Naruto would desert his post to meet in the garden of Konoha palace.

Some nights, when they met together, they would just lie on their backs, gaze at the stars and imagine a future where they could be together. 

During these times, Hinata often grew vulnerable with him. She shared her deepest fears and her greatest desires, opening up in a way she couldn't with anyone else.

Hinata even confided in him about her longing for freedom and the strict control her father exerted over her life. 

"He is determined to marry me off—my f-father," She told Naruto that night, nearly driven to tears, "Love was never supposed to be a consideration for me. That's what my father has always told me, that I need to marry. I need to choose my family. I need to choose duty. But I f-feel—" Hinata admitted, but then she stopped herself.

Naruto listened intently, as he always did, trying his best to lighten her heart and unburden her.

"You feel differently, don't you, Hinata-sama?" Naruto asked gently. 

"You've chosen love, haven't you, hime?" He added softly.

And the look that appeared in her eyes then touched his heart deeply.

Yes. I choose love. I choose you, her eyes had told him.

But there was more. 

Her eyes showed a plea for freedom, for something real and true, beyond the cold, heartless world she had always known.

Naruto's heart ached for her, it truly did. 

He found himself leaning close, taking her hands in his, and he made the mistake of promising to always protect her. He gave her hope that he could save her from such a horrid life, to be the source of freedom and love she so desperately sought.

"I'll figure something out. I'll save you, I promise," He had assured her.

Naruto remembered the joy that instantly appeared in Hinata's eyes, how she believed him wholeheartedly, placing all her trust in him.

That night, she actually kissed him for the very first time.

"Thank you, Naruto-kun," She whispered against his lips.

But he should have known better than to make such a promise.

What they had was fragile yet unbreakable when they were together, a beautiful dream they lived each and every night.

But dreams were fleeting. 

Reality was cruel. 

And, forbidden love never lasts.

They were caught. 

Hinata and Naruto thought it would be another quiet, hidden night together in the garden, a sanctuary where they could steal moments away from prying eyes, just like all those times before. 

But they were wrong.

Naruto could still remember the rustling of leaves and the snap of a twig that alerted them too late.

Suddenly, they were ambushed. 

King Hiashi's guards emerged from the darkness, torches in hand, intent on seizing them both.

Naruto fought back fiercely, for Hinata, for both of them, but there were just too many. Their sheer numbers overwhelmed him, and despite his best efforts, they managed to subdue him. 

Subdue them both.

The guards then dragged them away, tearing them from their sanctuary.

And just like that, their secret was out. 

Naruto had no idea how they had been discovered that night, but it didn't matter. The truth was out, the damage done, and they were now at the mercy of the King—a furious Hiashi Hyūga.

And oh, was he furious.

Their punishment was as cruel as it was merciless.

Hinata's punishment was given first. For defying her father's orders, daring to love someone beneath her stature, and tarnishing her family's honor, she faced severe consequences.

She was forbidden to see Naruto ever again.

Her tear-streaked face and dull eyes were the last sight Naruto saw of her as the guards forcibly took her away to her chambers. Naruto had never seen her so broken. Her desperate cries and pleas echoed through the cold, stone halls, her voice screaming his name the entire time. 

He could still hear her cries.

His punishment, however, was far worse. 

He was beaten, humiliated, and dragged before the King, where he was forced to his knees and made to face Hiashi's wrath.

"You have betrayed your duty, dishonored my family, and defiled my daughter," The King declared, his voice cold and unforgiving.

"For that, you will pay the ultimate price."

Naruto had accepted his fate. 

He believed he deserved it for turning his back on his knight's oath and causing Hinata so much pain. He expected his punishment to be death, a swift end to his suffering. He braced himself for it, thinking it would be a merciful release compared to the agony of being separated from Hinata.

But fate had a crueler design.

Instead, Naruto was brought before a dark, malevolent witch, and he instantly knew what was in store for him. 

He would be cursed.

Indeed, the witch cast a spell upon him, a powerful one. She transformed him into a beast—a creature so hideous that Hinata would never again be able to love him. 

"You will live out your days as a beast," The witch declared, her voice dripping with malice, "Banished from this palace, condemned to wander the forest for all eternity. You will outlive her, always knowing she is beyond your reach."

Pain tore through Naruto as his body twisted and changed, the curse taking hold. His once strong hands became claws, his noble and formidable body transformed into something large and terrifying, his face a grotesque mask of the beast he had become. 

The guards then threw him out of the castle, casting him away from his home, away from people, and away from Hinata.

Discarded like trash. 

Now, Naruto roamed the vast, lonely forest that surrounded the palace he once sworn to protect, his heart aching for the love he had lost. 

The forest was his prison now, and loneliness was his constant companion. 

Each step he took reminded him of Hinata, of the tender moments they had shared and the future that had been stolen from them. 

His curse was relentless, ensuring he would never forget. He was cursed to remember, to feel the pain of their love that could never be, every single day.

The only way his curse could be broken was if he was loved again. True love. 

But how could that ever happen? 

He was now a beast, feared and shunned by all who saw him. The idea of someone seeing past his beast form to the man within, understanding his pain, and loving him, seemed utterly impossible.

It was all wishful thinking. An unattainable dream. 

A painful hope he no longer allowed himself to wish for.

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Hinata Hyūga goes by many names as ruler. 

But many hailed her as the formidable Ice Queen. 

During the medieval era, centuries ago, the world was ruled by brutal principles of survival—conquer or be conquered, kill or be killed. 

In this unforgiving world, the stakes were high, leaving no room for mistakes or hesitation. Any sign of weakness was quickly snuffed out, often resulting in a quick and merciless death. 

Strength was the ultimate arbiter of one's fate. 

Compassion was a dangerous liability, and only those with a ruthless disposition had any hope of thriving.

Ambition fueled every action, every scheme, and every grand vision. 

Alliances were fragile, easily shattered by the ever-present threat of betrayal, making loyalty a rare but precious commodity.

It was a harsh world where the only true currency that held value was power.

And Hinata Hyūga possessed a wealth of it. 

Immense power. 

But it was never enough.

The entirety of Hinata's reign was defined by her unwavering ambition, an insatiable hunger for more and more power. 

That same drive, that relentless desire to rise above all others, coursed through her veins, a legacy that had been passed down through generations of greatness in the esteemed Hyūga royal lineage.

As ruler, her father had been great, as had his father before him, and so on and so forth. 

And now….

Hinata, too, embodied that same greatness.

She was a force of nature, a cold-hearted bitch that struck fear into the hearts of all who came across her, hell, even to those who just heard about her conquests. 

She conquered kingdoms with absolutely no problem, extending her empire far and wide without fail or mercy. 

Her strategic brilliance and unrelenting pursuit of power earned her a reputation as a ruler who tolerated no resistance—a reputation Hinata flaunted proudly, with her tits thrust forward and her head held high.

Kingdoms fell like dominos in her path, their banners absorbed into the ever-growing tapestry of her empire, each now bearing the emblem of the Hyūga dynasty.

When her army marched forth, destruction was only promised. 

Fields were left behind strewn with the fallen.

Streets ran red with blood.

Kingdoms and cities fell to ruin.

Kings were overthrown.

Her enemies' subjects subdued, their cries of defiance silenced by the swift and merciless hand of the Hyūga army. 

Rebellions arose in kingdoms far and wide in Hinata's name.

Seeds were sown, alliances were made, thus, the Hyūga dynasty expanded. 

That is how it always should go in Hinata's eyes. 

To Hinata, it was all simply a game, one of laughs and fucking giggles to her. 

It came easy to her. 

Being queen. 

Being a leader. 

Being a conqueror.  

She navigated a world dominated by men like it was child's play, effortlessly assuming the role of a leader just as well as any man.

She moved with a grace and precision that earned her respect and fear in equal measure, solidifying her place as a dominant force that won't rest till all bowed before her.

But Hinata was more than just that.

She wasn't merely a monarch defined by the clash of swords; not just a woman born from a lineage of blood and conquest.

She wasn't just a fearsome ruler capable of instilling terror with just a glance, who gets what she wants with just a command. 

Not in the slightest. 

Hinata stood as an ethereal beauty, her presence a whispered legend that traversed kingdoms both far and wide. 

She was no ordinary mortal, not just any woman; she was one that embodied grace and refinement, a living manifestation of elegance that inspired awe in all who gazed upon her.

Her eyes, lavender in hue and pupil-less—an unique trait shared only among the Hyūgas—held a depth that spoke of wisdom beyond her years. 

Her smile had the power to illuminate even the darkest of chambers, and her beauty was a force to be reckoned with—a weapon wielded with the allure of a siren, capable of captivating even the most hardened of hearts. 

"Fools." She would always sneer. 

Whispers reverberated her name, ensuring that she remained the focal point of every conversation.

From the grand halls of courtiers to the bustling camps of warriors and the humble villages of common folk, all tongues wagged about her. 

Even amongst her own people who proudly carried the Hyūga banner, discussions about her were rife—whether they had caught a mere glimpse of her, heard tales of her exploits, or were merely fueled by rumors.

Everyone wanted her. 

But they always wanted something from her. 

Courtiers lusted after her in hopes of being crowned as kings.

Warriors vied for her favor, yearning for a chance to spend just a night with her.

And a simple commoner, bless their hearts, sought her out with a wish to be freed from the chains of poverty and misfortune.

But no.

No one can have her. 

Hinata remained untouched. 

A closed-off fortress, one might even describe. 

Hinata was a woman of independence, resolute in her choice to rule alone, free from the influence of any man.

A queen who answered to no one.

A queen that bowed down to no one…

only to herself.

Alone, untouched by love's embrace, her sole ambition was to reign supreme, a quest that consumed her every waking thought. 

That's all that mattered to her. 

And she was content with that…

well…

at least on the surface. 

Because amidst the blood-soaked battlefields and the cold stone walls of her fortress, Hinata harbored a secret. 

A forbidden secret. 

It was a love that went against everything she believed in and stood for, challenging her vow to shun love from her heart entirely.

It was a love that persistently gnawed at the corners of her mind, fueling an insatiable desire to savor its forbidden sweetness with every passing moment, be it day or night.

It was a love that dwelled within her that threatened to unravel the carefully constructed facade she presented to the world, a delicate balance that teetered on the edge of collapse.

A love that was for…

Naruto Uzumaki.

Her most loyal and courageous general.

He was the only man who possessed the power of thawing the heart of the Ice Queen, of kindling her flame.

He, and only he, was the one Hinata longed for, the sole object of her burning desire.

Naruto was many things: a jack of all trades, a wild card, a man truly one of a kind.

Hinata knew that from the first moment she laid eyes on him. 

With his unwavering loyalty and unparalleled skill in warfare, he stood by her side as her most trusted advisor and also the leader of her formidable army.

He was the very man who guided the Hyūga troops into battle.

Without fear.

Without hesitation.

Without mercy. 

Just like his queen. 

The battlefield was his domain, a territory Naruto claimed without hesitation, fearlessly commanding the front lines better than any man. 

He led with a ferocity that mirrored his queen's, rushing into battle, ready to slaughter anyone who stood on the other side. It didn't matter who his enemies were; nobles, seasoned warriors, or mere foot soldiers—none were spared from his wrath.

He cut through the lot of them like it was nothing, happily killing in Hinata's name.

And each time, the result was the same; each battle's end unchanged. 

Naruto emerged victorious. 

Time and time again. 

Naruto stood as the driving force behind every triumph that echoed throughout the current Hyūga dynasty, a harbinger of inevitable victory for the Hyūga forces.

A man who single-handedly instilled fear on the battlefields and beyond.

Many called him the warrior of warriors.

Others referred to him as the bearer of grim gifts.

For it was he who had happily made it a tradition to present his queen with the grisly spoils of war upon her throne after every battle—the severed heads of her enemies.

A morbid treat, but one that he knew delighted his queen like none other. 

Naruto's loyalty to Hinata extended beyond mere duty; it was a deep-seated commitment, ingrained in every fiber of his being.

Every step he took was for her.

Every thought was consumed by her.

Every decision he made was for her. 

And every battle won was for her. 

Naruto sought nothing. 

He sought nothing in return from his queen.  

He harbored no desire for the benefits her status as queen or her unparalleled beauty could bestow upon him.

His loyalty was unconditional, dedicated solely to her and her cause. Naruto existed solely to ensure her success, to safeguard her sovereignty, and to defend her at any expense.

And Hinata appreciated his devotion beyond measure. 

No one could rival the bond shared between them, a connection forged in the fires of battle and sealed with the blood of their enemies.

To commemorate their victories, they would eagerly retreat to the comfort of their bed chambers, to hide from the world within the embrace of one another's arms. There, Hinata would shed her gowns, and Naruto, his armor, and fuck like there was no tomorrow, relishing in the sweet sensation of their naked bodies pressing against each other. 

And in those tender moments they spent together, they were allowed the freedom to shed their masks, baring their souls freely to one another. Then, naked and safe within the confines of their bedrooms, they revealed a side of themselves never before seen from the outside world. 

Naruto let go of his stoic mask and revealed his softer side.

Hinata shed her icy exterior and allowed herself to be vulnerable.

She showed Naruto the depths of her passion, allowed him to be more than just her sword, teaching him how to cherish the moments stolen from the chaos of their conquests. 

Amidst it all, only their stolen glances and kisses were the traces of their hidden affair.

Only their bedroom walls knew of the profound love they had for one another.

They understood the risks. 

As queen and general, they were aware of the potential havoc that could be wrought if their forbidden relationship were to be exposed to the world.

They were aware of how their love had the potential to jeopardize the solid foundations of the empire they had worked tirelessly to build.

War and love was usually a precarious balance, after all. 

But for them, it worked.

Risk or not…

Forbidden or not, they were happy. 

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And so, together, they ruled with ice and fire, their love a force that could not be conquered, even by the mightiest of empires.

The sun dipped low on the horizon, painting the sky with a rich palette of amber, gold, and crimson hues. Its waning light stretched long shadows across the dense foliage surrrounding a quaint little village. 

Accompanying the gentle sway of the trees was the soft caress of the breeze, carrying with it the earthy aroma of pine needles mingled with the damp, fertile scent of soil. 

A young woman strode briskly along a meandering trail branching off from the village behind her, her midnight blue hair trailing like ribbons in the steady wind as she walked. 

The woman?

Hinata Hyūga, the girl in red. 

The young woman, sweet as can be, wore a vibrant red cloak that flowed behind her, a gift from her dear late mother. Underneath, a white blouse with ruffles peeked out, paired with a swaying red skirt. Black fishnet stockings hugged her legs as she walked with grace in her Mary Jane pumps. 

Very picturesque. 

Hinata's steps were determined, moving steadily onward and upward, unfaltering even in the face of the whispered fears that hung in the air. She's been walking for quite some time, long enough for a dull ache to settle in her ankles and a persistent soreness to nag at her lower back. 

Still, she pressed forward.

She must. 

She had only one thing on her mind, and nothing else, propelling her to keep moving forward…

Her dear father: Hiashi Hyūga. 

He's fallen ill. 

An unfortunate turn of events.

In the early stages, his illness seemed rather mild, to say the least. Just an occasional cough here and there, nothing too alarming for Hinata. She brushed it off as a common seasonal nuisance, just his sensitive sinuses acting up again. 

So, she would make it a routine to brew her father a steaming cup of chamomile tea three times a day, meticulously steeping it to perfection. By his bedside, she would softly hum melodies she learned from her mother as she helped him drink the tea, all in hopes of soothing his cough and ushering him into a peaceful slumber.

At first, the tea seemed to do the trick.

However, as time passed, the soothing properties of the tea sadly began to lose their effectiveness. Before long, his symptoms began to worsen, escalating into something far more serious.

Pneumonia. 

His ailment turned into pneumonia. 

Hinata found that out on her own, having managed to piece it together from her father's symptoms—persistent coughing, difficulty breathing, and a stubborn fever that just wouldn't go down, no matter what she did. 

She tried everything to bring his many fevers down—cool compresses, damp cloths on his forehead, and even making him sip on ice-cold water or mint tea from time to time—but nothing seemed to work.

Her father was an old man, brittle and fragile. There was only so much that he could endure. 

As the days went by, her father's appearance grew more haggard and feeble, like a shell of who he once was. It pained Hinata to see him fading away, inching farther from his usual vibrant self. 

He hardly spoke, hardly laughed, and hardly smiled…

Each day, each hour, each minute, he battled with all of his might against the cruel pneumonia. But it seemed like it was gaining the upper hand more and more each day.

Hinata truly feared that he just might…

She shook her head, suppressing tears. She shouldn't think that way. 

It was this sense of urgency that drove Hinata forward, motivating her to hasten her return home with the supplies she had collected for him.

In her delicate hands, Hinata carried a woven basket brimming with vibrant vegetables, fruits, and an assortment of herbs and medicines—collected from the settlement a few miles away.

Konoha Village.

Hinata's father, Hiashi, resided in a charming cottage on the outskirts of Konoha village, nestled by a tranquil lake. His cottage, though old and weathered, had a cozy charm that was rather inviting. 

The quaint home was surrounded by blooming gardens and a cobblestone pathway, providing a peaceful sanctuary for him to live in peace. 

But his cottage wasn't just any place; it was Hinata's home as well. 

There, the two lived, accompanied only by one another. 

After the mysterious death of Hinata's mother, her father made the decision to leave Konoha. The memories of her and the village itself became too painful, a constant reminder that Hiashi simply couldn't bear.

So, they moved. 

That was many years ago, back when Hinata was just a child. 

But since then, Hinata has taken on the responsibility of looking after her father, especially now, as he lies sick in bed. 

She's grown pretty good at it, which just goes to show how much she learned from her mother. Her mother made sure Hinata could handle looking after both herself and her father on her own, and it's definitely paying off now.

Those teachings were priceless, worth more than gold itself.

And though her dear mother had passed away, Hinata found comfort in knowing that she was still with her; guiding her hands, and blessing her with patience and strength. The wisdom and love she instilled in Hinata were like permanent marks on her soul, destined to remain for as long as she lived. 

And so, no matter the challenges she faced, no matter how heavy the burden of her father's illness, Hinata managed to maintain her positivity. 

Her inner light remained undimmed.

Her radiance was so powerful that it seemed to push back against the encroaching darkness, even now, as she walked the trail all by her lonesome.

But as she walked, the hushed voices of the Konoha townsfolk echoed in her ears, refusing to fade away.

She couldn't shake them off.

The midnight blue-haired woman noticed, as she inhabited their lands, that they constantly spoke of a beast lurking in the nearby forest.

Their fearful gossip painted a picture of a fearsome predator, a freak of nature that had made the once-tranquil forest a place of dread. 

And as soon as word spread that Hinata planned to return home through this forest, the villagers became… 

agitated.

They pleaded with her to wait until morning, to stay safe in the village for the night before venturing near those dangerous woods or traveling at all, for that matter. 

But, Hinata stood firm, adamant.

"I've been away long enough," She had told them, sweetly and earnestly. 

"I can't bear the thought of anything happening to my father while I'm away. He needs these herbs, and I won't let fear keep me from him."  She also told them.

"Thank you for all of your concerns, but I must go. Please, wish me luck!"

However, thinking back on her own words now, Hinata couldn't seem to forget the image of the wide-eyed stares brimming with intense fear and concern etched on the faces of the villagers as she finished speaking. It lingered with her even as she turned away from them and left their gracious company and then village behind.

Little did she know, a touch of naivety tinted her determination.  

The village of Konoha had long battled with the mysterious beast, for several generations, in fact. Its existence was deeply embedded in the memories of its residents, intertwining with the essence of the village itself. 

Its claws dug deep. 

Whenever someone mentions Konoha, the stories of the forest-dwelling beast immediately come to mind soon after. Some dismiss it as an urban legend, while others see it as a cautionary tale passed from adults to children, who eagerly swap it like campfire stories whenever they get the chance.

People simply referred to the creature as "the beast" or even "the big bad wolf," depending on who you asked.

Nobody knew the beast's real name, where it came from, or what it looked like—just where it lived and what it did at night, specifically on nights of a full moon. 

According to the local lore, it was said that on full moon nights, a chilling wolf-like howl could be heard echoing through the forest and into the village. Farmers reported instances of discovering their chickens mauled and their crops raided. Some villagers even claimed to have seen claw marks on their doors, and others reported the disappearances of loved ones, or so the tale goes.

But none of that mattered to Hinata. 

Sure, Hinata had caught wind of rumors about this beast when she was younger but her parents always shielded her from such tales. 

"It's all nonsense," Her mother would always brush off when a teary Hinata sought comfort in her after being scared by the other children's tales of the beast.

Children could be quite scary, Hinata recalls how they would often use the tale to frighten other kids for a good laugh, presumably targeting her as well. They'd swap and switch details so often that Hinata couldn't distinguish fact from fiction anymore. 

That's why she felt it best to heed her mother's advice and ignore the tale altogether.

Though, she still made sure to stay as far away from that forest as humanly possible.

As time passed and Hinata eventually moved away from Konoha, the legend faded from her thoughts, becoming a distant memory. So hearing it again after so many years, Hinata couldn't help but take it with a grain of salt. To her now, the legend seemed more like a tactic to keep youngsters in check—a cautionary tale spun to prevent them from wandering too far and stumbling into trouble.

It was absurd. 

Hinata has no time for legends and myths. Her father's illness is her reality now, not some spooky ole beast, and she must reach him as quickly as possible.

And so, venturing through the forest will fulfill her wish.

With one hand, Hinata clutched a lantern, its flickering flames casting dancing shadows along the trail, guiding the way with its light. In the other hand, she tightly gripped her basket, finding comfort in its presence—a constant reminder of the purpose driving her to continue her journey. 

With each squeeze of the basket's handle, her father's image appeared in her mind: sick, bedridden, and sound asleep for days on end, his hand limp in hers.

She whimpered. 

'I'm on my way, father. I'm on my way.' She thought to herself, finding another surge of motivation. She trotted onward, each step she took resonating with a thud on the stoned pathway.

The chilly night breeze constantly whispered through the rustling trees, sending shivers of its cool touch through any openings in her clothing, such as her arms and legs, causing goosebumps to rise on her porcelain skin.

Hinata shuddered, her red hood steadily flying in the wind. 

While she traveled, the fading sunlight caught the glimmer in her lavender eyes—eyes that reflected only innocence and purity, unaffected by the darkness surrounding the tales of the lurking beast or, perhaps more notably, the harsh realities of the unforgiving world she lived in. 

Her kindness and determination were guiding lights for her, yet they also rendered her vulnerable to the ominous unknown that awaited her. 

Eventually, the trail led her to the entrance of the forest, where the ancient trees stood like silent sentinels. Their gnarled branches seemed to reach out at her like spectral fingers, casting eerie shadows on the ground by her feet. 

Immediately, Hinata's steps came to a sudden halt as she locked eyes with the looming forest. Her lantern and basket swayed due to her abrupt stop, her gaze transfixed on the eerie expanse ahead. 

Shallow breaths escaped her lips in quick succession, and her hands began to tremble.

This is it. 

The forest the villagers warned her about.

The urban legend, the tale of the beast—she never paid it any mind before. She outgrew that silly old tale, and it never made her shed another tear again. She wasn't scared of it anymore.

So, why was she feeling scared now?

Hinata couldn't tell if it was her instincts kicking in or the return of her childhood fears, but her body's peculiar reaction was unmistakable. She was trembling, shaken by the sight of the spooky forest that all of Konoha spoke about with such fear, now standing before her very eyes.

Tangible and real. 

Shakily, through the strands of her midnight-blue hair, Hinata raised her head and surveyed the eerie forest. 

Instantly, she realized the gravity of her situation. 

There were no other trails to consider, no detours, no shortcuts, and no hidden pathways to divert her from the ominous woods. The trail she had followed led her directly to the heart of the very forest that was said to dwell a beast. 

The forest stretched wide before her, its dense canopy casting shadows over the trail, which seemed to vanish into the darkness ahead.

Her heart began to race. 

Once again, the villagers' warnings echoed in her mind, a constant murmur urging her to retreat, turn away, and think twice about going any farther. The echoes just wouldn't quit, persistently nagging at her consciousness, like a chorus of annoying voices that just wouldn't go away.

But, her father….

Hinata's mind drifted back to her beloved father, who she knew was eagerly awaiting her return home. She knew he longed more than anything to see her walk through the door with a smile, bringing the supplies she had traveled far and wide to acquire.

It was at that moment, the fearful echoes of the villagers' pleads faded away.

Hinata exhaled a long breath in an attempt to calm the rising tide of anxiety within her. She even bit her lip nervously, gripping the handle of her basket tighter.

'You can do this, Hinata. You can do this!' She thought, once more trying to motivate herself.

Hinata knew she had to be brave, to summon strength from within the depths of her being to go on—for her father's sake.

She must.

So, with newfound determination, she steadied herself, taking a few more deep breaths before she planted her eyes back onto the spooky forest before her. 

She was ready. 

And with that, she summoned the courage needed to finally step into the darkness that lay ahead.

To enter the forest. 

The moment Hinata walked inside, a profound stillness descended around her like a heavy blanket, muffling even the slightest sound. The light that lingered behind her at the forest's entrance seemed to be instantly swallowed by the darkness within as she took a few more steps.

One step. Two steps.

The air seemed to shift, the pressure weighing her down and prickling at her skin like tangible dread.

Three steps. Four.

Above her, towering trees with branches covered in ancient moss loomed from all directions, their shadows stretching and swaying in the flickering light of her lantern.

The scent of damp pine grew stronger now, filling her nostrils with its earthy aroma, saturating the air all around her. 

Hinata's footsteps slowed, becoming cautious, as if the ground itself conspired with the looming shadows to keep her alert. With each step, she felt as if the ground might open up beneath her feet and drag her under, never to be seen or heard from again.

The path stretched ahead beneath her, shrouded in darkness so deep that even her lantern struggled to penetrate it, casting only a faint halo around her that the darkness seemed eager to swallow up. It called her onward into its endless black depths, demanding a courage she hadn't known she had.

Her heart pounded fiercely against her ribcage, aching with each beat, a sensation that felt suffocating and very unfamiliar to her. 

After all, panic, dread, and fear were never her friends, more like acquaintances she encountered every once in a blue moon in her otherwise normal life.

But now, she felt it all tenfold. 

Hinata had always prided herself on her composure, but here, surrounded by looming trees and engulfed in an oppressive silence broken only by the occasional rustle, she was beginning to crack.

The longer Hinata lingered within the forest, the tales of the lurking beast seemed to materialize all around her, like a ghost slowly encroaching upon her senses. They echoed in her mind and in every rustle and shadow. 

'Is it there?' She questioned in her mind as she heard a rustle of bushes to her left. 

'Was that it?' She questioned once more, as she heard another rustle behind her. 

Hinata shook her head, letting out a sigh.

She was being ridiculous. 

Glancing up hesitantly, her lavender eyes fixed on the twisted, moss-covered branches overhead. They snaked together like thick vines, blocking out the moonlight. 

She caught only glimpses of the sky, but even those revealed the truth: it was already night, which explains the darkness befalling the forest, swallowing it up whole. 

She squinted, barely catching sight of the full moon above. Its ethereal glow attempted to pierce through the dense foliage, but only succeeded in casting eerie shadows in the forest that only freaked her out even more. 

Hinata tore her gaze from the sky, fixing her eyes solely on the path ahead. Remaining alert in her surroundings was wise; after all, it wasn't just a scary ole beast that might roam these woods—other ordinary animals could be lurking as well. 

Predators. 

She raised her lantern higher. 

But that's when she began to notice something.

As she moved forward, the trail ahead became increasingly narrow, almost disappearing under the tangle of roots, dead leaves, and thick undergrowth. Hinata made sure to tread carefully, even stepping over the tangled obstacles, mindful to avoid tripping and risking a nasty fall.

That would be terrible.

She tightened her grip on her lantern and basket, drawing comfort from their warmth. But she struggled to steady her trembling breaths against the creeping unease that seemed to seep from the darkness itself.

Genuinely, Hinata was spooked. 

Goosebumps prickled her skin, making it feel like a million bugs were crawling across her flesh, all stirred up by the soft murmurings of the night wind.

It just made her feel even more isolated, like an eerie reminder that she was completely alone here.

Hoot! Hoot! 

Hinata shuddered, her senses rattled.  

Maybe not completely alone. 

She couldn't help but notice the distant hoot of an owl and the rustling of creatures in the bushes. She felt so silly thinking what she just did. 

The silence felt thick, disrupted only by the eerie sounds of the night: crickets chirping, frogs ribbiting, and owls hooting in the distance. 

Hinata strained her ears, half-expecting another unsettling noise to break the stillness. Her mind was buzzing, not at all helping her situation, with the villagers' warnings echoing louder in her mind, now than ever before.

Doubt flickered, like a wavering flame, her heart thudding like a drum.

But amidst it all, Hinata clung to the image of her father, frail and ill, relying on the supplies she carried.

So, she continued on. 

She proceeded on the path forward, taking one step at a time.

'Just stay on the path, Hinata. That's all you have to do.' She reassured herself, glancing at the familiar stoned trail beneath her feet, or at least the bits of trail that her light graciously illuminated. 

But no matter how close she huddled to her light, Hinata could not shake free from the unseen eyes watching her every move. 

Her eyes darted between the trees, catching glimpses of elusive shadows that seemed to retreat as soon as they caught her gaze.

She clutched her lantern tighter.  

Awooooo!

Abruptly, a distant howl of a wolf shattered the silence, disrupting Hinata's fragile calm. Startled, she leaped in fright, struggling to stifle her whimpers, but a few hushed squeaks escaped nonetheless.

The eerie cry echoed unnervingly close, as though it were just a few steps behind her, prompting her to instinctively whip her head in that direction. 

Yet, all she saw was darkness, a vast expanse of black. 

She aimed her lantern in that direction, only to see nothing, just more… trees.

Shivers ran down her spine, her sense of imminent danger heightening. 

But she kept on.

'Just a few more steps, I'm sure. The forest can't be that big, right?' Hinata attempted to reassure herself as she pressed forward on the path again, cutting through the forest with the vision that the clear path home lay just a few steps away. 

She wasn't sure how long or how far she had walked into the forest. Every tree looked identical, and the forest seemed to stretch on endlessly, making it impossible for her to identify the distance she had covered.

Branches creaked…

Leaves rustled…

But that's all there was—rustling.

No beast. 

No monstrous entity lurking in the shadows. 

Nothing.

'See, Hinata? The villagers were just overreacting. There's nothing to worry about.' She reassured herself yet again. 

But just as she convinced herself that the villagers were simply letting their fears get the best of them and that there was no beast, she was startled by a chilling surprise that shook her to her very core. 

A surprise that made her doubt everything. 

All of a sudden, she caught a sound—a haunting, guttural noise.

And it spoke to her. 

"I see you there, little one." 

It was a voice, other than her own. 

It was a deep, booming voice that shattered the silence, its words lingering like a sinister whisper long after spoken, chilling her to the bone. 

In an instant, Hinata found herself completely still, every part of her body, from her nerves to her bones, locked in place. She couldn't think, couldn't breathe. She couldn't even—

"I can smell you too." 

The voice spoke again, slicing through her panicked and scattered thoughts. Any notion that what she just heard was merely her imagination or a trick of her mind vanished completely, leaving her with the chilling reality of her fear.

"You don't belong here." 

The voice spoke once more.

"Tell me, what's a frail little thing like you doing here in my woods, huh?" 

The voice exuded a creepy mix of menace and curiosity, and it spoke like it was coming from all around her, as if the very trees themselves whispered such ominous words.

Hinata's heart began to hammer faster, thudding against her chest as if trying to escape. 

Every instinct screamed at her to run, to sprint back to the safety of Konoha village or if not that, find cover to escape the unseen menace that lurked in the shadows. But, her legs refused to respond, rooted to her spot, bound by an invisible force that held her captive.

She tightened her grip on her lantern and basket, seeking solace in their familiarity, but the chilling reality of her fear seemed to seep into her bones, draining her determination with each passing second. 

It's the beast. 

It's real and it can talk! 

It's alive, and out there—Lurking. 

Somewhere among the trees, it was hiding, waiting, and watching. 

Probably done so all along. 

It was the very beast that the people of Konoha feared, the one they had warned her about. It has finally revealed its presence. But it has done so in a way that brought upon a mass of terror upon her poor soul. 

"Aw, what's the matter? Cat's got your tongue, little one?"

This time, amusement tinged the beast's voice, and Hinata caught it instantly. But her mouth remained clamped shut, her voice stolen by the fear that gripped her.

The creature seemed to take pleasure in her silence, its tone becoming increasingly mocking.

"You're a surprising one, coming here. I'm not sure if you're brave or just…"

A menacing chuckle was made. 

"stupid." The beast finished, a taunting challenge that further tightened the knot of dread in Hinata's stomach.

The beast's words seemed to linger in the air, and Hinata found herself grappling with the urgency to respond, to defend her purpose for being there—right in the middle of the very domain it inhabited. 

A whimper escaped Hinata's lips as she glanced anxiously around.

"I-I apologize for d-disturbing you." Her voice cracked hard. It was like all the saliva in her mouth dried up, leaving her throat scratchy and parched. But she continued, kami, she didn't know how she did. 

"I-I'm merely delivering f-food and m-medicine to my f-father." She stammered, managing to maintain a fragile steadiness in her voice despite the trembling in her limbs.

"H-He's sick, and I m-must get to him as q-quickly as p-possible, please."

The forest seemed to hold its breath as she spoke, the ancient trees and whispering leaves hanging on to every word and gentle breath she uttered with eager attentiveness. 

Her purpose for venturing into the forest had been announced. 

Her soft voice had been revealed. 

It was like a melodic lullaby—her voice. It echoed timidly, carrying a soft cadence that seemed to harmonize with the natural rhythms of the forest, soothing the very leaves around her.

Her ears caught a low chuckle, almost a growl, rumbling through the air, echoing ominously among the shadows.

The unseen beast truly found the sound of Hinata's voice rather… captivating. 

It responded in turn.

"Your father, eh?"

Another menacing chuckle. 

"Let me get this straight."

The beast paused, as if it was thinking, before its voice arose again. 

"You've traveled all this way, wading through my territory, doing what many wouldn't dare, just to deliver supplies to your sick father?"

The beast's deep voice rumbled through the air like distant thunder, its tone laced with a genuine sense of confusion as it questioned her.

Hinata nodded shakily, as if the beast could see her response.

Her lavender eyes scanned her surroundings once more, her head whipping about, unable to pinpoint where the voice was. Sometimes it boomed from behind her, startlingly close; other times, it seemed to fade into the distance, only to return with an unsettling proximity. And it even seemed to whisper with an eerie clarity right beside her ear at times, sending shivers down her spine.

Hinata didn't know where the beast was; quite frankly, she didn't want to know. She didn't want to see it. 

Once more, the trees rustled in a mysterious dance of leaves, stirred by an unseen breeze, prompting her eyes to shift rapidly, whimpering. 

Soon after, the voice echoed through the silent forest once more.

"Mmm, what a devoted little thing you are. I must take a closer look."

Instantly, panic surged through Hinata the very moment those words left the beast's mouth. 

It felt like a threat, triggering a primal urge in her to flee. Her mind raced with the urge to run, hide, do something, but her body couldn't keep pace with what her mind was screaming at it.

Panic. 

That's all she felt. 

She was overwhelmed by panic—relentless, heedless of reason or necessity—just raw, clawing panic, gnawing at her insides.

Panic gripped her fiercely, its tendrils wrapping around her mind and squeezing tight. Her heart raced like a drumbeat, each thud echoing in her ears. Every breath came in short, shallow gasps, her chest tightening with each inhale. 

Hinata felt trapped in a suffocating embrace of fear, unable to think clearly as adrenaline rushed through her veins.

'Oh no. Oh no!' She repeated over and over in her head as she whipped her body around, trying to anticipate where the beast might reveal itself.

A hushed silence fell upon the forest, as though nature itself had fallen completely still. 

Frozen in time. 

No shuffles, no rustles, and no sign of life resonated through the entirety of the still forest, leaving Hinata wrapped in an eerie quiet that heightened her anxiety to the extremes. 

She began to hyperventilate. 

Hinata glanced around anxiously, scanning every direction—left, right, front, back, up, and down—hoping to catch a glimpse of the lurking creature before it leaped out at her, a preemptive move to spare herself a heart attack. 

But the forest remained eerily quiet.

And there was no sign or sound of the beast anywhere. 

Suddenly, a sensation washed over her, as if the very air had shifted—and in an instant, Hinata sensed a presence behind her, looming over her petite frame.

A warm breath gently brushed against her neck, causing every hair on her body to stand on end.

"Behind you."

The booming voice reverberated behind her once more, but this time, it was unmistakable.

It echoed directly into her left ear.

The realization struck her like a lightning bolt, causing Hinata's heart to race even faster, its beats resembling the fluttering wings of a hummingbird against her chest.

Ba Boom!

Ba Boom!

Ba Boom!

Hinata's body froze in place.

She couldn't move. She couldn't breathe. She couldn't see or hear. Was she still alive? Was she still here?

She wasn't sure.

In moments of fear, they say the body responds with fight or flight, but Hinata was currently experiencing the lesser-acknowledged third option.

Freeze.

It was a primal reaction her body had never felt before, muscles locking rigidly, breath held tight, senses hyper-alert.

Hinata hesitated hard, finding it difficult to accept that the real beast—the one feared by the villagers, the one that had spoken to her moments ago in the night's shadows, the same one even she was afraid of as a child—was now standing right behind her.

No one had ever seen it.

No one even knows what it looks like.

Yet, now it stood behind her.

Hinata couldn't even begin to imagine what the beast looked like. 

Her innocent mind couldn't conjure a clear image, only a chilling certainty that whatever stood behind her at this very moment would surely petrify her, plunging her into a pit of regret for even venturing into this forest. 

But, she gotta. 

She gotta turn around. 

Slowly, with trepidation, and a shaky, desperate "I-don't-want-to-die" whimper, she turned, shedding the cold chains of fear that gripped her. It took all of Hinata's strength to turn her body completely around, stretching her neck to face the beast head-on.

But when she did…

What she saw instantly spurred her to fight against the darkness that threatened to cloud her vision and plunge her completely unconscious to the ground behind her. 

She fought everything not to faint. 

Instead, Hinata jolted back, away from the hulking figure of darkness, stumbling over her pump heels. 

"O-Oh my kami. Oh k-k-kami!" She panicked with a scream, lips trembling, teeth chattering against one another. Her abrupt movement caused her lantern and basket to rattle in her clammy hands, nearly slipping from her grasp. 

But that was the least of her worries. 

There it stood, in the flesh. 

The beast. 

The big bad wolf. 

Continue Reading On Wattpad Or AO3.

"I shouldn't have done this," Hinata muttered to herself, her voice barely audible over the bustling activity of the gym she found herself in.

It was a place she had never truly been a part of, an outsider peering into a world she had never dared to enter before.

The gym.

Hinata shook her head.

What was she thinking?

Rapidly, like a schizophrenic patient, her lavender eyes darted hesitantly across the area, cringing at the sight of numerous bodies of all sizes–scattered throughout the place.

Her gaze swept over the multitude of people, each one deeply engrossed in their workout routine, contributing to the rhythmic ebb and flow of the gym's energy.

The people here, sporting wide ranges of colorful fitness gear, moved with a comfort and ease that she envied, effortlessly blending into the hustle and bustle of the gym without a single worry in sight.

Conversations merged into a low murmur, punctuated by the occasional clank of weights, the whir of exercise machines, and random music from someone's headphones nearby.

The air was thick with the unmistakable scent of sweat, enveloping her like a heavy blanket, each breath saturated with the pungent aroma. It clung to her slightly dewy skin, mingling with the heat radiating from the bodies all around her.

To say Hinata was overwhelmed would be an understatement; nerves currently coursed through her so intensely that she felt like she was seconds away from barfing.

She felt queasy.

The gym was so packed!

Hinata wasn't one for crowded spaces, but the thought of pushing herself through intense public workouts amidst all the hustle and bustle of a crowd definitely takes the cake.

All those people.

All those eyes.

Watching her.

She shuddered.

Let's just say, going to the gym has never been on the top of her bucket list.

Hinata smacked her forehead in frustration.

Then, why did she choose to listen to Sakura?

Why did she actually go through with her advice?

When Hinata expressed the desire to kickstart the new year by shedding a bit of weight and getting fit, she hadn't anticipated finding herself in a packed gym, surrounded by sweaty bodies, waiting, what seemed like an eternity for her new personal trainer.

No way.

"Yep, this is a bad idea." Hinata groaned, feeling the very reason she had dreaded coming to the gym materializing all around her.

"Oh no, you don't! You're not backing out, Hinata-chan. I've done wayyy too much for you to chicken out and leave now."

Sakura Haruno.

Hinata's best friend.

The pink-haired woman's voice burst through the phone pressed against Hinata's ear, shattering the brief silence that had settled on her end.

Her voice startled Hinata, only adding to the anxiety that practically permeated every inch of her being.

Anxiously, the midnight blue-haired woman began to bounce her leg up and down, her eyes continuously scanning the area.

She occupied a sad, empty cushioned chair tucked away in a corner of one of the gym's lounge areas, her fitness bag and water bottle claiming the seat beside her.

Hinata shook her head, her messy bun growing even messier.

"D-Demo-"

"No buts, Hinata-chan! There's nothing to worry about, it's just nerves. You'll be fine, I promise."

Hinata let out a whimper, surveying the crowded gym once again. Yet, no matter how many times she glanced around, the feeling of being out of place lingered, refusing to go away.

She bit her lip nervously, "I-I don't know, Sakura-chan."

"Hinata-chan, you've got to stay focused and keep your eyes on the prize, girl. Aren't you determined to achieve those New Year's goals you keep pestering yourself about?"

Sakura's encouraging voice bombarded Hinata with questions, urging her on.

"And what about working towards that healthier lifestyle you've always wanted, huh?"

"H-Hai, demo..." Hinata hesitated, her thoughts muddled.

"You want to get toned up, don't ya? Wanna get snatched?

"W-Well yes, that's, um, one way of putting it..."

"Okay then! Just imagine all the attention you'll get from men when you finally get that body all plump and fit. You'll have them lining up for you, even more than they already do-"

"Sakura-chan!" Hinata protested, feeling the heat rising in her cheeks due to Sakura's bold and certainly unexpected comment.

A mischievous giggle bubbled from Sakura's lips from her end of the phone, the sound teasing and light-hearted, as she relished in Hinata's reaction.

Hinata shook her head, "Y-You know th-that's certainly not what I want!"

On that remark, Sakura's giggle tapered off into a chuckle, clearly hearing the embarrassment in her best friend's tone.

"Relax, Hinata-chan, I'm just messing with you."

Sakura spoke, her tone softer now, trying to ease Hinata's embarrassment.

There was a brief pause before Sakura's voice arose again.

"You did check in at the front desk, didn't you?

Hinata nodded nervously, stammering, "H-Hai. I-I checked in-"

"Then there's nothing to worry about! Just take it easy until your personal trainer arrives. You'll really appreciate it once he does."

Sakura quipped, the excitement in her voice evident. She made sure to stress the word "really" in that sentence.

"The trainer I've set you up with is seriously top-notch—he was actually recommended by my own trainer. He's seriously amazing, gets five-star ratings, and he really looks out for his clients. I'm sure he'll take great care of you too, Hinata-chan!"

Hinata hummed, intrigued, to say the least.

With Sakura's words, they actually managed to alleviate the weight of anxiety from Hinata's shoulders.

Momentarily anyway.

A glimmer of relief washed over the midnight blue-haired woman as she sat and mulled over Sakura's assurance.

For a fleeting moment, Hinata permitted herself to entertain the hope that everything would turn out fine, that she was indeed in capable hands.

She desperately wanted to believe in Sakura, and in her words, to cling onto the reassurance she offered.

She tried to fight the anxiety.

She tried to fight the doubt.

She tried to push down those annoying feelings with all of her might.

But she couldn't keep them down for long.

Because just as she tried...

Just as she tried to think positive, other plaguing thoughts began to creep into her mind.

The most prominent one being the lingering issue at hand:

Her late personal trainer.

Once again, doubt and uncertainty came flooding back in, gnawing at her confidence and relief. And before she knew it, her mood shifted once again, simmering irritation bubbling up within her.

Now, she was annoyed.

Hinata couldn't help but feel as if her emotions were fluctuating as wildly as those of a pregnant woman, leaving her feeling completely disoriented.

She just wanted to go home.

Hinata gave her head another shake, her lavender eyes wandering around the gym yet again.

"I'm trying to believe you, Sakura-chan, I really am, demo..." She muttered into the phone with a groan.

"Gomen, Sakura-chan, I don't mean to offend you, but... I'm just not buying it " Hinata blurted out under her breath.

She was met with silence on the other end, so she continued.

"All the ex-excitement you're expressing about this 'mysteriously great' personal trainer doesn't convince me, especially since, let me remind you, he's running late," Hinata muttered impatiently.

"So unprofessional." She groaned under her lips.

Hinata has to be honest.

She actually harbored certain... preconceptions about personal trainers.

She actually saw them as intimidating military generals that barked constant orders at their trainees, permitted them no rest, and perhaps even pushed them past their breaking point.

It was her first experience with a personal trainer, and she wasn't quite sure what to expect.

Especially since her trainer is male!

It was all Sakura's fault.

She set her up—specifically assigning her a male personal trainer and deliberately not accompanying Hinata to the gym in person.

It was Sakura's idea of "treating her" to something nice for a change, but Hinata perceived it as nothing more than a tease, a curse, some form of punishment!

Sakura certainly knew that Hinata had always struggled with interacting with boys; now, as a woman, men were no exception.

Hinata hasn't dated anyone since high school, where she fooled around, experienced her firsts, and participated in all the awkward things typical of teenagers—experiences that, as an adult, tends to come back and haunt.

She blushed in embarrassment at the many memories that came to mind.

Now, as a woman, a busy woman to be exact, actively functioning with a demanding schedule in her daily work life, it seems she has neglected intimacy for so long that she doesn't even know how to approach men anymore.

She was a complete klutz around them, always making a fool of herself, stumbling over her words, and just being a total embarrassment to both herself and everyone around.

Now, with the knowledge that her initial trainer would be a man, possibly examining her body as she exercised, touching her, talking to her, only intensified the overwhelming feelings she felt. Such feelings tore her up inside and threatened to make her want to just drop everything and run straight out of the gym.

If not that...

Then, Hinata was certain she might faint.

She whipped her head up once more, scanning the expansive area, shifting her gaze beyond equipment and moving bodies.

"Ugh, where could he be?"

As if things couldn't get any worse, and her nerves couldn't intensify further, Hinata has been seated in the same spot for forty minutes now. Not once has she laid eyes on her personal trainer, at least, not the man that matches the description Sakura provided.

Blonde hair.

Blue eyes.

Sexy as hell.

Hinata rolled her eyes.

She was well-acquainted with her best friend's tendencies, almost an expert on them given their long history together.

Having known Sakura for just about her entire life and regarding her as an older sister figure, Hinata knew that Sakura could over-exaggerate at times and, not only that, but also be quite over the top.

Yes, she was pretty proactive, Hinata has gotta give her credit for that.

Initially, she actually recommended Hinata her regular spot in Tokyo—Konoha Sports Club—to get her into the gym.

But Sakura didn't stop there.

She went above and beyond by securing a personal trainer for Hinata and adding her to her gym membership plan, generously covering all the expenses for her fitness plan.

Once again, Hinata couldn't help but roll her eyes.

Typical Sakura, always so over the top.

For months, Sakura had been on Hinata's case about joining the gym, pushing her to quit hiding in the comfort of her home, to just give up on all those failed attempts to work out using her TV.

But given Hinata's clear disinclination, the gym wasn't exactly her comfort zone, and the idea of having a male personal trainer didn't align with her usual preferences.

Nevertheless, against all odds, Hinata found herself here, in the gym.

Her New Year's resolutions were now on the brink of transforming from mere overly optimistic thoughts dismissed on a day-to-day basis—into tangible reality.

Hinata groaned.

Yippee.

But... with her personal trainer nowhere in sight, she started to see it as a sign—an opportunity to rethink her rather bold decision.

Initially, she had doubts, but now she was finally giving in to those... doubts.

Hinata sighed, lifting her hips from her seat, "Ah well, he didn't show. I guess that means I'm leaving now-"

"No, no, no! Don't you dare!"

"Why not, Sakura-chan," Hinata snapped, flopping back down in her seat, "Obviously, the personal trainer you've recommended isn't top-notch, or he'd be here—on time." Hinata snapped.

She shook her head in frustration, her patience worn thin.

At this point, her lips began to move almost involuntarily, frustration blinding her to her surroundings. Words began to just slip out of her mouth now.

"Besides, isn't working here at the gym his job? Shouldn't he be here instead of slacking off-"

"Hi... nata Hyuga?"

Hinata's words came to an abrupt halt, as did her entire world, as an unfamiliar husky voice broke through her concentration, interrupting her phone call and well, her entire train of thought.

Hinata's heart skipped a beat, and she quickly whipped her head toward the culprit who called her name.

To her surprise, she found herself gazing into the bluest eyes she had ever seen.

It was a man.

But not any ordinary man.

From the instant Hinata set her eyes upon him, she found herself breathless.

The male newcomer bore a resemblance to a living, breathing statue. No, scratch that.

He looked like a model plucked from the glossy pages of the gym magazines prominently featured throughout the establishment.

A professional hottie.

And there he stood, towering above her.

He stared back at her, and she stared back at him.

At that moment, as their eyes met, it seemed as though time momentarily stood still for both of them, and the commotion of the gym faded into the distance, reduced to nothing more than background noise.

Hinata's lavender eyes remained fixed on the man before her, carefully observing the nuances of his features.

The stranger's hair was a vibrant shade of blonde, like that of sunlit wheat fields.

It was spiky too, each spike standing with confident defiance, outlining his whiskered cheeks, strong jawline, and even perfectly complementing his sun-kissed tan complexion.

Blonde hair.

His eyes, a mesmerizing shade of blue, glimmered with a touch of curiosity as he peered down at her, exuding a warmth that caused Hinata's breath to hitch.

Blue eyes.

Hinata found herself unable to resist marveling at the handsome stranger standing before her.

Her eyes attentively traced the details of his appearance, from the subtle smirk gracing his lips to the sleeveless black muscle shirt that literally hugged his toned body like a second skin.

His pecs and eight-pack were clearly visible through the black fabric, each contour coming together to resemble a washboard along his abdomen that seemed to sink in with every powerful breath he took.

She couldn't help but let her eyes wander lower, but what she saw there nearly caused her to faint.

Oh my kami.

Hinata noticed it right away.

The bulge.

The bulge in his shorts.

The generously sized, mega bulge found in his shorts, where his cock...

Hinata cleared her throat.

She meant his penis, was constrained, tucked away from view.

The major hunk of flesh protruded noticeably, resting along his right thigh in his shorts. His mighty companion created a noticeable bulge that asserted its presence proudly through the black fabric of his fitness attire.

Hinata had to remind herself to close her mouth, and stray her eyes away to avoid looking like a pervert.

The blonde was packing.

Seriously.

Not to mention, he smelled really good too.

Hinata could distinctly smell the sandalwood cologne that enveloped her nostrils the moment he stepped before her.

The scent bore rich wood essences, much like luxurious woods such as bark or pine cones.

His cologne was subtle, not overwhelming at all, yet it exuded a warm, lasting presence in the air between them.

Very masculine.

Hinata also observed the orange duffel bag he had slung along his shoulder, which slipped down his frame, following his every moment.

She even noticed that he was currently holding his phone, one large hand cupped around its base, making the device seem tiny in his grasp.

Sexy.

As.

Hell.

It's him.

Her trainer.

"Oh my kami," Hinata whispered, a blush creeping onto her cheeks.

The realization of the descriptions Sakura had provided hit her hard, and she found herself utterly captivated by the living embodiment of those words; right there, standing before her.

And as the initial shock subsided, Hinata couldn't escape the immense regret welling up within her as she remembered the less-than-flattering words she had uttered just seconds ago–words that the attractive blonde male standing before her most definitely heard.

A snicker escaped Sakura on the other line, relishing the silence.

"I take it by your abrupt silence, he's here, huh? What did I tell ya? He's fine as hell, isn't he?"

Another snicker escaped her.

"You're welcome, bestie. I hope you enjoy-"

"Eeek! M-My trainer is h-here now, so byeee!" Hinata blurted out in a nervous fit before hurriedly tapping the hang-up button with her thumb, removing the phone from her ear, and tucking it into her yoga pants pocket.

Her gaze snapped up to the blonde male before her, catching him chuckling in response to her flusteredness.

Her lavender eyes widened, and she swiftly rose to a stand, "Oh my kami. G-Gomen, I didn't mean to s-say..." She cut herself off, covering her eyes with her hands, shaking her head.

"Oh kami, this is so embarrassing."

Another chuckle escaped the blonde, a hearty one that caused his chest to rumble.

His deep chuckle, along with the smooth richness of his voice, sent a barrage of shivers racing through Hinata's body, like a machine gun firing into her flesh.

The sound of his laughter hung in the air, teasingly so, intensifying the crimson blush that spread across her cheeks with each passing second.

Hinata peeked at him through the spaces between her fingers, attempting to hide the effect his captivating voice had on her.

His voice was so sexy!

Kami, she's not gonna make it.

The spiky-haired blonde shook his head, gesturing dismissively.

"Ah, don't sweat it, love."

Placing his free hand on his chest, he gave it a pat. However, Hinata couldn't help but focus her attention on his hardened nipples poking through his shirt.

'Oh my kami! Why are male nipples so hot!' She thought in a hysterical fit.

Hinata stole another quick glance lower, a mere shift of her lavender irises, and caught sight of his bulge once more.

'Oh gosh, why is his cock sooo huge?' She shook her head.

'Scratch that, kami, just why is this man so hot?!?'

She screeched constantly in her head, her cheeks burning crimson, and her senses going into overdrive.

But the male didn't seem to notice.

He went on.

"I should be the one apologizing to you," The blonde remarked, gesturing toward her, watching as her fingers dropped from her face upon his declaration.

"I never meant to keep you waiting or upset you. I'm afraid I couldn't exactly... find you. The client that assigned you to me," He glanced down at his phone again.

"Sa..ku..ra Haru..no."

He sounded out her name quite slowly, unfamiliar with it, before casting his gaze back onto her, "She sent me a picture with your hair down. So, I was looking all over this entire gym for a version of you with your hair down—a total doozy that was, let me tell ya."

He seemed to laugh at himself, and Hinata couldn't help the slight giggle that escaped her own lips.

"Then I thought to myself, oh, why would she have her hair down in the gym; it'll make sense for it to be up. Gah, you're such a baka," He chastised himself in the midst of his explanation, giving his forehead a slap with his free hand.

He shook his head.

"I even asked the receptionist where you'd gone, but uh," He leaned in, lowering his voice, "Don't tell anyone I told you this, but..." He trailed off, glancing around as though checking for any eavesdroppers.

Hinata giggled at that.

He turned back to her, "They were a little useless," He whispered with a groan, rolling his pretty blue eyes.

"And I'm just being generous by adding in the 'little.'"

"O-Oh," Hinata exclaimed, placing one hand over her mouth to hold back another giggle.

"Were they?"

"Yeah, unfortunately." The blonde gruffed.

"Receptionist couldn't remember if your hair was blue or black, or where you even went for the matter." He scoffed, "Complete bakas, I swear, the things I have to deal with," He playfully chastised, causing Hinata to burst into laughter.

"Eventually, I saw you, and your eyes, and well, everything started to make sense, haha!" The blonde boasted, running his hand back to nervously rub his neck, a sheepish smile playing on his lips.

"It seems my instincts were right, after all."

He nodded at her hair.

"Ya got your hair up."

Hinata's blush deepened.

But she couldn't ignore the twinge of guilt that lingered now that her trainer had actually explained why he was late.

He's totally innocent.

She felt terrible for badmouthing him.

The blonde trainer clicked his tongue, "So, the moral of my long and boring story is that I completely failed at making a great first impression."

He bowed low in respect, "Gomen, love."

Hinata had to bite back a smile upon hearing his words.

'Oh, I can most certainly disagree upon that.' She thought in her head.

The blonde male's irresistible charm, the warmth of his smile, the husky timbre of his voice, his self-assured confidence, his sense of humor...that bulge–they were all it took for him to leave a great first impression in her eyes.

In the presence of these elements, Hinata instantly forgot the reasons behind her being upset and the fact that she had been waiting for forty minutes straight.

That's neither here nor there now.

Instead, she faintly smiled, and she too, bowed her head, "Oh, you mustn't apologize; I totally understand. I should for all the tr-trouble, sir-"

"Call me Naruto."

"Eh?" Hinata questioned, straightening her posture in a flash.

His smirk widened, a confident expression.

"Naruto," The spiky-haired blonde repeated, his tone easygoing, "The name's Naruto."

He straightened his posture, gracing her with a warm smile, revealing his sharp canines.

Hinata's eyes widened.

"As your new personal trainer, it's my duty to make you as comfortable as possible, so feel free to call me by my first name, no formalities required."

"O-Oh okay," Hinata nervously replied, her eyes meeting Naruto's as he extended his hand.

With a shaky gesture, she reached out, her hand clasping within his warmth for a firm handshake.

Hinata stared at the massive hand that engulfed her own, experiencing the touch of a male's hand in hers for the first time in a long time.

She fell into a trance almost instantly.

'Sooo big,' She thought in awe, gazing at her blonde trainer's hand clasped in hers, the noticeable contrast making her own petite hand nearly disappear from view.

The blonde male gently shook her hand, rocking it up and down, "It's a pleasure to finally meet you, Hinata-san." He greeted, but he raised an eyebrow at her silence, her gaze seemingly stuck on their interlocked hands instead of meeting his own gaze.

He tilted his head, "You are Hinata Hyuga, correct?" His gaze bore into her, seeking confirmation.

Hinata jolted from her trance by such a question, her head snapping back up to face him.

At that moment, she became acutely aware of the significant height difference between herself and her new trainer, who completely towered over her.

Standing a full head taller than her, his torso loomed above her sad 5'3" frame, putting her height to shame.

She was forced to tilt her head back considerably to meet his gaze.

Hinata reciprocated the handshake, presenting one of her own sincere smiles as well.

Her flushed cheeks rose, revealing the natural warmth of her expression, and her pearly whites.

"H-Hai, I-I'm Hinata Hyuga."

Her lavender eyes sparkled, "It's a pleasure to meet you too, Naruto-san."

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