Chapter Text
"I got your results," doctor Senju said. "Your cells are rapidly multiplying and doesn't seem like it would stop anytime soon. I'm sorry, Mr. Uchiha. You have leukemia," she added.
Sasuke froze in his place. He knew it. He knew that his symptoms were not normal. He knew because he watched his mother suffer the same when he was a child.
"Can it be treated?" He fidgeted.
"I can. But we can't be a hundred percent certain. However, currently, I can't promise you that if you went through the procedure, it would be successful. To tell you frankly, Mr. Uchiha, there are only a few patients who successfully treated leukemia."
Sasuke never expected that he would be dying this young at 23. He still had so much to do. There are dreams that are waiting to be reached. Honestly, no one dreamed of having their life cut off before reaching 30s. But well, illness is such a cheat— taking the lives of people who still wanted to go on.
However, there is another side of Sasuke that wanted to just enjoy his life rather than draining his life savings. He's just 23, if he stopped working and started treatment, he is certain that he will soon be unable to continue what he started due to drained savings and drained strength.
He had two choices whatsoever— do the treatment and hope for the best or just leave it be and enjoy his remaining time.
He chose the latter.
"I... I need time to think, Doctor Senju," he said. Tsunade Senju nodded. She knows this child because Sasuke's grandfather used to be her grandfather's best friend. She was also Mikoto Uchiha's senior in high school.
Sasuke has always been the stronger one between him and Itachi. Tsunade remembers clearly how Sasuke, at the age of 14, did not shed a tear during their mother's death. But that caught her attention and worry today was because Sasuke looked troubled.
Of course he would look troubled, his life is about to change at a very young age, Tsunade thought.
"If you need any kind of support, just call me. After all, I know so well that this isn't just an ordinary news to you. Take your time, Sasuke," she said and patted his shoulder.
A knock came from the door.
"Tsunade-Sama," came a voice.
It was so familiar it feels like a memory.
That voice. That voice was something Sasuke memorized.
Sakura.
She was in shock the moment she saw his face. After all, they haven't seen each other for more than five years.
The moment his eyes laid on her green orbs, tears started to well up— why? Maybe because it's her. Sakura has always been Sasuke's partner in crime. One of his most trusted friends.
Sakura seemed to be confused about what Sasuke was doing there but she's sure that this is up to no good.
________
"Flight number JL 2263 has arrived in Tokyo. Passengers, please secure your baggages before leaving the plane."
Ino Yamanaka stretched her arms. Finally after the 6 hour flight, they arrived at their destination.
"My heels are killing me," Ino grunted.
"Are you leaving, Ino?" Tamaki, Ino's coworker asked. She nodded, "just waiting for Neji Hyuga. His flight must be arriving soon."
Unlike the others, Ino and Neji kept in contact. The reason? Well, maybe because they work in the same airline. It's impossible to not see each other considering the fact that they are also neighbors.
"You know, if I don't know you, I would literally think that you and Pilot Hyuga are dating," Tamaki joked. "But knowing you, you prefer to spend your time having fun in clubs than to settle down," she added.
Ino rolled her eyes, "hell yeah."
Obviously. Ino wanted to find love as well.
She wanted to have someone to take care of for the rest of her life. A lot of men liked her but none of them ever became a serious relationship. Ino lost hope in love.
Neji, on the other hand, has never been an option for her. Yes, he is stunning. Neji is the epitome of ethereal with his perfectly muscular body, pearly lavender eyes, and utterly gorgeous face. Most women admire Neji not only for having a good physique but because of his mind since he graduated at the top of his class.
"If you're not interested in Neji, just set me up with him," Tamaki said.
"I can't. I told you, he's off limits."
Neji is off limits. Not because he's taken but because he's never available for any romantic affiliation to anyone. He's the type of guy that never fell in love with someone, not even once— or maybe he did. Only the heaven knows.
"Ino."
It was Neji.
"Thank God you're here already. You always keep me waiting. Hanabi must be waiting for us!"
"Calm down, Ino. It's not even 8pm. Hanabi is still hanging out with her boyfriend," Neji replied.
Yes. Even Hanabi, Hinata's younger sister has someone. Some people are indeed lucky enough to find love.
"Will Hinata be there?" She asked.
"Of course not. When did she ever meet us up for dinner? Ever since she became a lawyer, she's been nothing but cold like she's out of reach," Neji replied.
Neji's cousin, Hinata Hyuga, used to be the sweetest girl in the world. That was until she decided to lock in with her life and never talked to any of them anymore, completely blocking them out of her life. Well, everyone except Kiba who happened to be her classmate back in college. Even though they're cousins, Hinata and Neji barely talked about stuff. He thought that she's just busy and studying but then she started to reach out maybe twice a year.
"Goodbye, Tamaki! We will be leaving!" Ino waved.
Neji took Ino's handbag like the gentleman he was. "I miss the old times," she stated.
"Hmm?"
"I miss my girls so much. It feels like an eternity already. Sakura is busy in the hospital, Naruto works with us but never aligned with our schedule, Sasuke is gone and never talked to any of us, Kiba and Hinata are both very busy, Temari did not call for over 2 months, Shikamaru is basically dealing with the bane of his existence."
Neji looked at her.
"Waiting for Tenten, I see."
Neji let out a small laugh, "I'm not. I'm just waiting for you to say something more about the past like you always did."
He's definitely lying, she thought.
"Whatever, Neji. Lie to yourself all you want, I know you miss Tenten," Ino said.
"Of course, I do! But you know, I miss everyone," Neji cleared. "As for you, I am getting tired of seeing you every flight."
"Well, you should enjoy my leave!" Ino said.
"Why would you leave?"
"Appointments," she replied, shortly.
"Appointment in what? I know you too well to assume that you will just spend your leave in clubs."
"None of your business!"
_________
"Can't you just shut the fuck up?!"
The brunette was raged with what her co-workers are doing. None of them are doing the job right, it's been their 4th error this month.
Tenten massaged her temples. "Fix this mess," she ordered.
She's now working as an investigator in a case of child trafficking. What does her job really do except find leads and suspects? Well, it's her own way of helping those who are wronged. After all, justice is for everyone.
"Next week, we will return to the hideout. You better not make any more mistakes that can make us fail this investigation," she said, "do you understand?!"
"Yes, Ma'am!"
"You're dismissed. Sasori, I need you to track the IP address of the accounts I sent you. I need them by Tuesday," she added before leaving.
Tenten was waiting for a cab when her phone buzzed with a text.
Is this Tenten's number? Please text back, it's Sakura.
Her brows furrowed.
After two years of no contact, she finally reached out, huh?
________
"Congratulations to another successful project, Shikamaru!"
Cheers erupted at the table of executives. Shikamaru Nara just secured a once in a lifetime deal with the most prestigious company in Tokyo. One deal that can potentially give them millions.
Temari scoffed. That should be mine, the idea was mine! We basically had the same thought, he just happened to present first!
Shikamaru smirked and looked at the blonde woman, staring at her evidently displeasured face.
Temari did nothing for the rest of the evening. She sulked and sulked. Shikamaru seemed to be enjoying how Temari is annoyed. After all, she was the one who started this feud between them in college.
After the party, Shikamaru approached her.
"Well, well. What kind of face do we have there, Subaku?
"What do you want now, Nara?"
"Are you that annoyed that someone is better than you? Just admit defeat, Temari. I might lie low if you do," he teased.
"Just because you're securing projects left and right doesn't mean that you will always be at the top. Just you wait, Nara. I will surely beat you next time," she hissed.
Shikamaru smirked, "that ain't happening. It's already a drag, just give it up."
He walked away.
She was filled with rage.
She hated him.
He hated her.
If it only weren't for the job, they surely got rid of each other by now.
________
"In the case of Deidara versus the Kakuzu, this court hereby decrees that the defendant is guilty. Court dismissed."
Hinata Hyuga shook her client's hand.
"Well done, attorney," he said.
"Thank you," she said. Her eyes landed on Kakuzu.
Well, he will be in jail now because of money laundering. Suits him well after framing her client of the crime he didn't commit.
"I would like to take you out to dinner sometimes," Deidara smiled. Deidara always found her attractive, very attractive.
Hinata shook her head, "you are my client and there's nothing to it other than that. Congratulations, Deidara."
She turned her back from him and walked towards her office where she found Kiba waiting for her.
"Tough case, huh?"
"It's over now."
"Actually, it's far from over."
"What do you mean?"
"Sakura called."
"I can't go."
"Hinata. It's about time you face them," Kiba said.
"I'm... I'm not ready to see them."
"Sasuke is dying, he wants us all to be together like old times."
Her eyes widened. There's no way Sasuke is dying. Did he have an accident or something? She was about to say no when her phone buzzed. It was from Neji.
Hinata. I'm outside your building.
________
7 years ago…
"YA! Naruto give me back my diary!"
The neighborhood was woken up by the angry voice of Ino. Naruto's doing his tricks this early in the morning.
Neji jolted from his bed. It's only 6 in the morning and he's starting to make a mess in the neighborhood. He glanced at his sleeping cousins who sleeps under his bunk bed. Hinata is still fast asleep.
She must've did a lot of work yesterday, I better not wake her up.
Neji gently moved down, avoiding any rash moves that may potentially wake his sleeping cousin. He knows too well how Hinata tirelessly studies every day.
He went into the kitchen where a note was placed on the fridge saying:
I won't be returning until this Friday, I left money under the plant. - Hiashi
As always, his good uncle left without saying where to. Neji shrugged as he opened the fridge. He knows that he has to cook until Friday, Hinata should not be bothered as her college entrance examinations are upcoming and she's a bit hyper-focused when studying.
"Neji-nii?"
Hanabi rubbed her eyes. "why are you up so early, Hanabi?"
"I heard Naruto and Ino quarreling outside. I can't sleep properly so I just got up," she answered.
"Ah... I see."
"Hmm," Neji started, "do you have a class today?"
She shook her head, "Neji-nii, it's Sunday."
Oh right.
Neji just finished his thesis presentation yesterday and got the highest marks. It was hard but at least he's finished doing it. Neji is graduating high school next year and he should be careful not to fail anything. Otherwise, it would be a mess since one failure can potentially take his scholarship away.
The Hyugas are not rich. They are comfortable but not comfortable enough to send three kids in schools.
"What do you want for breakfa—?"
"Neji!"
It was Tenten.
"I'll get it!" Hanabi said and opened the door.
Tenten came in with a plate on her hand, "I baked cinnamon rolls last night. Can you give them to Hinata?"
His brows furrowed. She called him only to give cinnamon rolls to his cousin. Like hell, was it even that important?
"Thank you," he said. All of these for Hinata and none for me, he thought.
"Ah. Also," Tenten added. "Are you free later at 10?"
"Yes," he replied without hesitation.
The truth is, he's not even sure if he's free but it's her. Her asking this means that she needs him for whatever reason. They've always been close and this behavior of his is just muscle memory— Tenten and Neji goes way back, even in elementary school, they've always been close. Tenten used to defend him from bullies, Neji used to tutor her a lot.
"I need help in baking," she said.
"What are you baking?"
"Pastries."
Right. More cinnamon rolls for Hinata. Isn't she the spoiled princess? Neji bit hard at the thought. Back then, he was Tenten's priority when it comes to the dishes she cooked. But now? She can't stop bringing Hinata various stuff.
"I want to make croissants and cookies. Also, Ino and Shikamaru's birthdays are coming. I might as well bake a cake for them. What do you think?"
"I'll be there. Although I'm sure that you'll just make me do the dishes but it's fine. I'll see you at 10, then?" He smiled.
She nodded, "yeah!"
_________
Present…
"What do you want?" Hinata asked. She went outside the building the moment her cousin texted her. He knows that it's never a good timing to meet her when she's in the middle of something important, like, perhaps a case.
"Did you get Sakura's message?" He asked. Hinata shook her head, "no. Sakura has no contact with me. What does she want?"
"Sasuke is asking us to meet," Neji said.
"All of us?"
"Yes, all of us."
She sighed, "then, I suppose Kiba was telling the truth after all."
Neji watched as his cousin's frown became something else like a sense of confusion and fear marked her face. Hinata's always like this when she's anxious about something— looking down, fidgeting her fingers. A good thing that she's no longer stuttering when nervous because what kind of an attorney she would be if she stutters while defending her case?
"Tell me the truth. What is wrong with you, Hinata?" Neji asked. "You've changed."
She shrugged, "people change, Neji. People have to change to survive. Not everyone remains the same after years. In my case, I have to toughen up because I have to be defend my clients in cases."
"Why don't you call us?"
"I'm busy."
"Lies."
"Law is not like aviation. Law changes from time to time, I have to make sure that everything is in place and that I know everything. Otherwise, I would be a failure," she replied.
She wasn't always like this. Back then, she used to reach out to them whenever she's free. But now it never happened.
Neji knows for sure that there's a reason why Hinata is acting this way. May it be something he did or something he didn't do.
But it's not the right time to bombard her with such questions. She's troubled. She might not say a word about it but she is troubled, he doesn't know why but it seemed serious.
"Are you hiding something from us?"
________
"I will always love you, Naruto."
Naruto woke up from a dream. A dream that's seemed so real but out of reach.
He just finished his 8-hour flight from Sydney to Seoul and he will be returning to Tokyo tomorrow. He needed rest but it seemed like he's been dreaming of her again.
It's been 5 years since he last saw her, 6 years even. But after all those years, Naruto still remembers what it feels like to have her in his arms, caressing her delicate facial features.
Oh what a nightmare.
How can someone show you so much love and take it away all of a sudden without any trace?
Back then it was easy because Ino was always there. If there's one friend that never left Naruto's side, it was her. And what horrors it brings that she's no longer by his side.
Naruto and Ino can be considered best friends but after everything, he stopped expressing his disbeliefs to her and kept the pain to himself. Ino once told him that love is a crazy and the most unstable thing someone can experience in its life and he proved her right.
"I can't get her out of my head," Naruto whispered.
He took out his wallet where he kept her locket that contains a picture of them together.
Six years and I'm still not over you, he thought.
Naruto is tired. Tired of waiting that she might reach out because she never did. He's tired of feeling like something worthless– something that is thrown once done with.
It haunted him. Every day for six years. Since the day she left and never returned, Naruto has been wondering.
Wondering if she misses him.
Wondering if she's moved on.
Wondering if she would ever come back to him.
Such a horror because he knows that if she asked, he would in a heartbeat, without any trace of doubt, take her back in his life.
"Captain Uzumaki, are you asleep?" Came a knock.
"I'm awake. Come in," he said.
It was Shion.
"What do you want, Shion?"
"Someone named Sakura called, she was asking for you."
He stopped.
Sakura?
That's a surprise.
"What did she want?"
"She was asking to meet you after you return to Japan," Shion replied with a tone that Naruto sensed was disgusted. "She is currently holding the line. What should I tell her?"
"Tell her that I'll meet her."
Shion frowned but nodded.
Sakura, huh? After all these years.
__________
Sakura slouched on her seat. Sasuke surely made her tired of making phone calls to people that never pick up.
She looked at the time, 9:23 pm.
Time for me to grab something to eat, she thought to herself when the door of her quarters opened. It was her senior, Lee.
"I have anko dumplings for you," he said. "How's your shift?"
"It was okay. Thank you, Lee."
Lee nodded and left.
It's not a stranger to her. She knows that Lee likes her. He confessed maybe 6 times and she rejects him every single time. It's not like she dislikes him but because love and relationship are something out of the picture right now. She needs to finish her internship and now, help Sasuke get the squad back together.
If she was the one to be asked. The chances of getting the squad together is less than 30%.
First, they broke off without a single word. None of them kept actual contact– maybe some of them like Neji, Naruto, and Ino since they are all in the same field. Sakura, on the other hand, had no one from her friend group as another medical student making her the only one who took the med field in their group.
Hinata and Kiba are both practicing law. She never heard of them but obviously they were the ones who kept their contact with each other. Besides, Kiba never leaves Hinata alone. Like ever. She joked a lot about how Hinata keeps Kiba as her dog.
Tenten and Sakura talk sometimes especially before Tenten got her job as a detective in some secret firm. The last thing Sakura remembered is the fact that Gaara and Tenten are going to be workmates. Well, good for them. Gaara always had a thing for her.
Temari and Shikamaru. That's a different case. Sometimes Sakura wishes that she'll be around to stop whatever feud they have. All of their friends feared back then that Shikamaru and Temari will be both taking the same program, graduating together, and having the same company. Such a nightmare since all of their fears came true. Sometimes Sakura just thinks that company rules is the one preventing the two to kill each other.
"Sakura," came Sai.
Sai is Sakura's friend in college. He's someone awkward yet very very charming, a little like Sasuke but without all the swag and all. A lot of girls liked Sai in the past, most of them thought that the two are dating which is certainly not the case since Sai made it clear that Sakura is not his type.
He isn't Sakura's either.
While she was spacing out, her phone rang... It was Ino.
"Yes, Ino?"
"Sakura! Where are you? I kinda need a lift–," Ino said.
With the tone of her voice.
She's drunk.
Again.
"Where's Neji?"
"He went to Hinataaa.. I'm dizzy, I want to throw up," Ino laughed.
Sakura sighed.
"Send me your location, I will pick you up."
Sai looked at Sakura, "where are you going? You have a meeting in 20 minutes."
"Oh right. Fuck," Sakura cursed. "God damn it, Ino Yamanaka!"
"Friend problems?"
She nodded.
"How about I pick her up and you focus on your meeting?"
"Are you sure? She's quite... flirty," Sakura said.
Sai laughed, "no one will ever flirty enough to tempt me."
_________
Temari arrived at the venue Sakura texted her. The smell of freshly brewed coffee and perfectly baked croissants filled her nose with such a wonderful aroma combo. She looked around to see where her friends are.
Temari's eyes landed on a a pink haired girl. It was Sakura and she's laughing with Sasuke.
It's been 2 weeks since Sakura reached out to all of them about the reunion. Some of them confirmed but some (Hinata) did not confirmed.
"Temari!" Sakura called her. "Over here!"
Temari smiled. Sakura is always the most welcoming one in their group. Well, among the ladies. Overall, Naruto and Kiba are more welcoming maybe because they're the loud mouthed ones.
Speaking of Naruto, Temari spotted his spiky blonde hair beside the Uchiha. Neji, Ino, Kiba, Neji and Shikamaru are there as well. Only Tenten, Gaara, and Hinata are not there yet.
Temari sat down beside Sakura. She had a smile on her face until she looked forward and saw Shikamaru giving her a teasing look. Temari rolled her eyes.
He's here to annoy this shit out of me, I'm sure she thought.
"It's been how many years?" Asked Naruto.
"Five years since we all left Konoha. But it's been 3 years since you ghosted us," Sasuke replied.
"The only one that ghosted us was Hinata," Naruto replied. He turned to Kiba, "is she going?"
Kiba shrugged, "maybe. I'm not sure since she walked out on me the other day."
"She will come," Neji said. "I already talked to her."
Hinata was the youngest among the girls in their friend group. She's always been the quiet one but not this quiet to the point that she ghosted them and never even dared to call or text.
In Sakura's mind, she wanted to see her but she hated the fact that she left without a goodbye. There's no trace of her except from the updates Neji and Kiba give from time to time. It hurts her because she cared so much about her. She cared to the point that her heart ached every time someone mentions her name because she feels like she failed to be a friend to her.
Temari glanced at Kiba.
He's smiling from ear to ear.
Something's never changed. One of them is that Kiba is still helplessly in love with the Hyuga.
"Oh! Tenten's here!"
Tenten ran towards Ino's embrace. Tenten's strict demeanor faded the moment she saw Ino's smiling face. They're the close ones after all.
She took a seat beside her bestest best friend, Neji Hyuga.
"How you've been, Neji?" she asked. "It's been like 2 years?"
"I've been good. I'm always with Ino and now that you're here, I would appreciate it if you take her with you," Neji replied.
"That's mean!" Ino pouted.
Neji and Ino were never close growing up. It's a surprise to everyone that they spend most of their days together.
An idea crossed Tenten's mind as she watched her friends tease each other, they will look good as a couple.
"Tenten, where's Gaara?"
"Comfort room. He drank a glass of water before going here and he can't hold his pee," she replied, giggling.
If Ino had Neji. Hinata had Kiba. Tenten had Gaara as her co-worker.
It's so unfortunate for Temari considering that most of their friends had someone close to them as their co-worker while she's stuck with the ever so prideful Shikamaru whom she detest.
"I'm sorry I'm late."
That voice.
It sounded so familiar yet so different to them.
It was Hinata.
"Uh..." Tenten mumbled.
"Take a seat, Hinata!" Ino exclaimed. "Oh my, we missed you so much!"
Hinata stared at the empty seat as Tenten already reserved a seat for Gaara. She sighed before sitting down beside Naruto who looked like he wanted to disappear.
Naruto just froze from his seat. The fact that she's here and she's sitting beside him is just too much to bear. He inhaled the sweet vanilla scent. Hinata glanced at him, he's not looking at her.
Why would he be?
He hates me, she thought.
God damn, what am I thinking? Of course he does.
"How have you been, Hinata?" Asked Sasuke.
"You know you're the one who did not have any contact with us except for Kiba and Neji. We have a lot of questions to ask yo—."
"I-I'm sorry. I just had to," she said.
"Just had to? What are we to you? Nuisances?"
Hinata looked down. "I had my mind in reaching my goal and decided to focus on my career. Even Kiba and I don't talk too much when I have a case," Hinata replied. "I want to make it up to all of you if you want."
"It hurts, you know?" Naruto started, "You just... left."
His voice cracked a bit.
The whole table was silent until Gaara arrived. "Ive been looking everywhere for you!"
What an entrance.
A great way to stop the tension building up.
__________
[ past ]
All of them are gathered in Sasuke's room.
Itachi invited them all to eat dinner with them. Reason? Because he missed the noise of these children.
And also because it's their late mother's birthday.
Every year on their mother's birthday, Sasuke is always depressed and unable to talk to anyone because of the memories of their dead mother.
With his friends in their house, Itachi is sure that Sasuke feels a little better.
"Wow! You outdid yourself this time, Itachi-niisan!" Kiba exclaimed, "this hamburger steak is so good!"
"Ywah. You're rwigt!"
"Naruto, chew your food properly before speaking!" Neji scolded.
Itachi laughed as watched the children fills their home with laughter and noise. He glanced towards his little brother who's slightly smiling because of the commotion.
Nothing makes Sasuke feel better than having his friends around. Itachi knows that too well, that's why he invited them over.
"You're so lucky, Sasuke. Your older sibling cooks you food like this. How I wish I have an older brother or sister," Ino sighed. "Itachi-Niisan, where is Izumi?"
"At work," Itachi replied shortly.
________
Current time
"That's all?" Naruto asked.
"Yeah," Sasuke replied.
"Come on, man. It's not the right time to joke about stuff like this," Kiba sighed.
"If you really wanted us to have a reunion, maybe you shouldn't be sick!" Kiba added.
"It's true," Sakura butted in. "Sasuke's doing tests in our hospital. Doctor Senju confirmed the diagnosis," she added.
Temari sighed, "why does it have to be this way?"
"Well, that's just how life works," Kiba shrugged. "Time is such a cheat. Ten years ago, we were just kids trying to figure out life. Unsure of what the future might bring us. Five years ago, we know exactly what we want to do and what we want to be."
"And now. After reaching those dreams we tried so hard to reach, we always want more."
Naruto frowned a little.
He's right.
At 13 years old, they do nothing but enjoy. They wanted to figure out how life would work for them. Some just wanted to be happy while others didn't care about the future. Life moves mysteriously depending on the person.
At 18 years old, they figured out what they want to do, what they want to be. They had a long list of things they love and hate. They're not as gullible as before. After all, they have learned that things are possible if you work hard for it.
And now at 23, after living the life they once dreamed about. It doesn't seem enough. It's never enough because they keep wanting more. There's no such thing as contentment.
"It's okay if you don—."
"When do we start?" Hinata asked.
Sasuke smiled, "when are you free?"
"I don't have cases this month," Hinata replied. "How about the others?"
"Girl, be for real. You're the only one busy enough not to even reach out," Temari said.
"My bad."
Then they all laughed.
"How have you been, Naruto? I'm curious cause our flights never align," Ino asked. "You know, I'm getting tired of Neji's face! He's always the pilot in my flights and it's tiring. All the my co-workers do is stare at him, never doing their jobs right!"
"I mean, what can I do about that, Blondie?" Neji smirked.
"Oooh, Neji," Tenten laughed. "You're still as feisty as ever, I see!"
"Neji's always the visually appealing one, ya know," Naruto replied. "I have no complaints ahout that."
"Also to answer your question, Ino. I personally requested more international flights to prevent spending my days in the same pitiful country," Naruto replied.
"Fair point," she replied. "Maybe I should request the same."
Naruto nodded, "I would like to see you more often just like before."
Naruto glanced at Sasuke, "how about you, teme?"
"Me? I'm on a sick leave," Sasuke replied. "Work's been good for the record. I've only been seriously injured once and I recovered quickly."
"Please tell me that you're not one of those policemen who abuse their power and position," Kiba replied.
"Of course, not! My brother raised me better than that," Sasuke laughed. "How about you, Kiba?"
"I've been very busy, obviously," he replied. "I've handled 3 cases for this month already. I think it's time for me to rest. I took a leave for a month," he added.
"What do you plan on doing during your leave?"
"I don't know. I want to travel but after this meeting, I realized you're right that we really have a lot to catch up," Kiba replied.
"How about you, Hinata?"
"I don't have much cases like Kiba. I only had 2 cases since the beginning of the year," Hinata replied.
"Why?"
"She always gets the complicated cases, the ones that no one accepts," Kiba replied.
"Like that money laundering case of Deidara. All of us thought that it's impossible to even represent that case," Kiba added.
He looked at her.
"She's amazing, I swear," he smiled.
Hinata smiled back.
She mouthed thank you to Kiba and took a sip of her tea.
"Wait," Tenten started. "Are you two, like, together?"
"Together?"
"Yes. Together, together."
Hinata shook her head, "love is out of the picture. I want to focus on my career first."
"We're just friends! We're not in a relationship or anything," Kiba said. I wish we're together tho.
Neji exhaled a breath of relief.
It's not like he doesn't like Kiba. It's just that Hinata will always be the younger cousin in his eyes and it makes him be more protective when it comes to her.
"Speaking of relationships," Tenten started. "Who's single?"
No one answered.
"I guess we all are," Sakura laughed.
"Oh goodness! Some things NEVER really change, huh?" Temari laughed.
"If you're a bit softer then men would like you, Temari. The reason why you're still single is because you women are so complicated," Shikamaru hissed.
"Came from the person who is liked by no one!"
"Tss," Shikamaru replied. "Troublesome woman."
"What did you call me?!" Temari slammed her palm against the table as she shouted.
"Are you deaf? Or does it give you pleasure to hear me refer to you?!" Shikamaru said.
"Hey, that's enough. You're grown ups and you still act like children," Sakura said. "I wonder what the two of you do at work. I bet your co-workers are always trying to get the two of you away from each other, preventing a world war three!"
"We could've been fine if someone doesn't steal all my ideas!" Temari reasoned.
"Well, apparently, great minds think alike!"
"Just shut up. People are staring, have some shame," Gaara told them.
Sasuke cleared his throat, "I think we should leave."
"Good idea!"
"Where will we go?" Asked Naruto.
"Home, obviously. Where else?" Neji replied.
"I want to drink," Naruto said. "We should drink."
"Bitch, we just drank coffee," Ino replied.
"Since when do you drink, Naruto? You're easily intoxicated as far as I remember," Sakura said.
"That's true. It only takes you 2 shots to get wasted," Sasuke said.
Hinata stood up, "I want to drink as well. I know a place. Those who want to come, just convoy."
_________
Summer, 7 years ago…
"Where are they?! It's almost 10am and I have to drive from Konoha to the beach! I swear to God, if he's not here before 9:50, I will be LEAVING!" Neji said, frustrated.
Their friend group decided to book a beach house themselves for 4 days and 3 nights. The check in period is at 2pm and the destination is approximately 4 hours away.
Ino and the girls have packed all of their stuff in the car. Neji and Sakura will be driving since they're the ones who have their driver's license. Well, Temari and Shikamaru already have theirs but no one in the group wanted the two to drive them due to the fear that they might start a race which can potentially result to a crash.
"Is that everything?" Tenten asked Neji.
"I loaded everything until the last box you had. Didn't you double check your stuff before packing them into boxes?" Neji asked.
"I did. But I'm really scared of forgetting something," she replied.
"If you forget anything, for instance you forgot your shades then you can borrow mine or I'll drive you myself to the nearest store to buy it," Neji assured. "So stop worrying, okay?"
Tenten smiled and nodded.
A few feet away from them, Temari is watching them with a smile.
Years of this and that yet these two never confessed, she thought.
At this point, it's not a secret that Neji and Tenten cared for each other deeply, although they insisted what they have is just friendship. However, Temari believes that there's no such thing as purely platonic friendship between a man and a woman who can't leave each other alone.
Wherever Tenten is, Neji always appears. It scared Temari because sometimes she thinks Neji might be a stalker.
"Just to inform you, I'll join the others in Neji's car. You join Sakura's," Shikamaru whispered on Temari's ears. She rolled her eyes, "whatever, Nara."
"Just making sure," Shikamaru added before leaving.
He's so annoying! Temari thought.
A few minutes later, Naruto arrived, carrying a big box.
"Where did you get that?!" Sakura asked. "There's no space left!"
Naruto grinned and opened the box, "Kakashi gave them to me."
It's a box filled with sake and alcohol.
Kiba laughed, "I'll carry them!"
All for a box of alcohol.
"Get in the car," Neji said. "We have to leave."
_______
In Neji's car...
"ROAD TRIP!" Naruto and Kiba shouted together. "We're going to..." Naruto started.
"THE BEACH!" Kiba replied.
"Ya! You're both too noisy! Tone it down a bit!" Shikamaru said.
"Come on don't be such a kill joy! It's our first trip together, we should enjoy every moment! We have 5 beautiful days at the beach," Naruto replied.
"Four days, Naruto. Four days," Sasuke corrected.
"Just let them, Shikamaru. I have ear plugs in my bag in case you need them," Neji said. He turned to Tenten who's sitting at the passenger seat next to him like the passenger princess she is, "it's not too noisy for you, right?"
She nodded, "I'm fine. Just keep your eyes at the road."
Neji is driving and Tenten is at the passenger seat. Naruto, Kiba and Sasuke occupied the first row of the backseat while Gaara, Kankuro, and Shikamaru are all at the second row of the backseat.
Tenten is the only one separated from the other girls. Reason? Because Neji needs his emotional support person in the same car with him.
"Hey," Neji started.
"Yes?"
"You're not forced to be here, right?" He asked. She shook her head, "you know, if there are two things I like in the world it would be: first, dumplings and second, car rides with you."
She smiled.
He blushed, a little and looked away.
"That's really sweet, Ten."
"OH HELL YEAH THAT'S SWEET! YOU'RE LIKE OUR PARENTS, PLEASE GET MARRIED AND HAVE TEN CHILDREN!"
Guess who.
That was Naruto.
"Naruto, keep your voice down or I will kickbyou out and place you in Sakura's car," Neji threatened.
"Naruto's right," Kankuro said. "Why don't you just confess to each other instead of insisting that we're just friends, it's tiring," he sighed.
Neji and Tenten were stunned. No one denied nor confirmed their assumptions.
It's like they're both waiting for the other one to speak.
"See? You can't even den—."
Tenten spoke, "we're just friends who spend who love to spend time together driving around."
Neji frowned.
I knew it, she's always seen me as just a friend he thought.
____________
Current year...
Hinata went to her car. She was followed by Naruto who happened to park beside hers.
"Hinata, wait!" Kiba called.
"What?"
"I left my car at home," he scratched the back of his neck.
"Get in," she replied.
Afterwards, the entire friend group arrived at the bar. Looking at the interior, it's obvious that it's well thought of.
Even the two architects are in awe at the view.
"Damn, Hinata goes here? Is she a regular?" Sasuke whispered. "She knows ball," Temari replied.
"Lady Hinata," the security called.
"Kou," Hinata replied. "I need a table for 11 people."
"Elite?"
"No, VIP," she replied and handed him her card.
Damn she's rich, Ino thought.
Even before she became a lawyer, Hinata and Neji's families are well off. That's why it was a surprise that they still had a job after college when they can just relax and stay at home.
"Follow me, Lady Hinata."
Out of everyone, Neji was the one who was surprised the most. First, Hinata doesn't drank alcohol or sake back then. Second, she knows clubs like these. Third, she has a VIP membership!
Time changed her the most. She's no longer the shy and reserved girl he knows.
They entered a room that looked like a house with a balcony and its own bedroom.
They ordered vodka and tequilas. Ino was the one who ordered the most, her alcohol tolerance is unmatched and she knows what alcohol to buy to enjoy the best.
"Consider this as my apology for ghosting you," Hinata said.
The night is still young. They talked and talked, catching up like they wanted. Temari was the first one to get knocked out. She was placed in bed by Neji.
Sakura was sitting on the chair near the kitchen and Sasuke approached her.
"Thank you," he stated.
"Hmm?"
"Thank you for helping me, Sakura," he said. "It means a lot to me."
Sakura pats his shoulder, "it's fine. Anything for you."
"No, really. I feel like I am indebted to you for everything ever since my diagnosis," Sasuke said. "You're the only one who helped me erase the anxiety I felt after hearing the news."
"What are friends for? Do you know you sound weird thanking me for literally every normal thing a friend would do," Sakura assured.
"I wish we can have more time," Sasuke said. "We only got the squad back and I'll be leaving so soon."
"Stop saying that, Sasuke," Sakura bit her lip. "We will be doing this together, I'm not going to leave you. Not this time."
Sasuke lowered his head.
"I won't leave you, I'll be by your side every step," Sakura said. Sasuke rested his head on her shoulder, just like old times.
"I really love you," he started, "I love how you make me feel calm even in times when life feels like a storm."
"I really love you too, Sasuke."
Neji and Tenten are catching up at the balcony, away from the noise that Ino and the others are making inside the room.
"How have you been, Ten?" Neji started the conversation. "Just so you know, I missed you so so much."
"I missed you too, Neji," Tenten replied. "I've been good."
"How about you? How's your job?"
"It was just like I ever dreamed," Neji replied. "I feel like my life has meaning when I do the things I love."
"Good for you," she replied.
"Why didn't you study medicine?" Neji asked her. "I know you, you have two choices for college— culinary and med. Why didn't you pursue your dreams?"
"I used to live just for myself. But now, I decided to live for the people who want justice and answers for the cases of their loved ones," Tenten replied. "It's all about purpose, I'm sure Hinata felt the same."
She drank her sake.
"It's a surprise..."
"What do you mean, Neji?"
"I'm surprised that you didn't blocked out despite drinking quite a lot," Neji replied.
Tenten smiled, "I worked myself on being good at taking alcohol. Sometimes I work closely with suspects and they always ask me to have a drink with them or anything."
"Do you remember our first vacation as a group? You got so wasted and you kept saying stuffs that are somewhat inappropriate," Neji laughed.
She blushed, "what do you mean?"
He placed his hand on her head, "you don't have to know."
___________
Summer, 7 years ago…
Alcohol was never good for her. Tenten knows that she's easily intoxicated even with the tiniest amount of alcohol and yet she stiil kept drinking. Her purpose? Join the girls in their drinking session. Well, all except Hinata who only had a korean yogurt drink with her. It's such a shame that Hinata lacks confidence, she could get any man she wanted if it weren't for her personality.
They all knew that once she becomes serious about her looks and styling herself better, it would be over.
"You know," Ino barely managed to pronounce her words properly. "I don't know if they're just intimidated by me but maybe this is the curse of being pretty enough to be admired but never loved enough to be pursued," Ino cried, visibly drunk.
"Is there something wrong with me or I'm just not for love," she added.
"Ino, men are predators. The reason why they never pursue is because they're scared of strong women like you," Tenten replied. "They prefer the submissive ones."
"RIGHT!" Temari agreed.
They talked about love and boys until no one is able to speak properly. Everyone except the youngest who looked panicked on what she would do on her drunk friends.
Hinata made her way to the men's guest house.
"Uhm... can you help me? They're a mess," Hinata said. By the looks of it, the boys are also busy with their drinking session. The contrast is none of them looked miserable.
"They're a mess?"
"T-They're all drunk," she said.
"Really?"
Hinata nodded, "please help me put them in their rooms. I can't possibly carry them myself."
Sasuke laughed a little. Of course she can't. After all, Hinata is the smallest one.
Before Sasuke could react, Naruto, Kiba, Neji and Shikamaru are already on their way towards the girls' guest house.
Kiba held Temari's body against his, holding her so she wouldn't fall.
"I fucking hate you, Nara. Go to hell," she mumbled. "Stop stewling my ideas."
Hinata giggled. Even when she's drunk, she has nothing but hatred for Shikamaru.
"Please don't punch me, Sakura-chan," Naruto said as he placed the pink haired girl on his arms. Sakura's room is just in the first floor so he was able to put her in bed without trouble. Fortunately for Naruto, Sakura didn't wake up. Otherwise, she would've put him so sleep with her punch.
Shikamaru got Ino on piggy back ride. He's not yet intoxicated unlike the others. He's sober enough to hear her soft crying.
Ino is heartbroken yet again.
Poor girl, she only wanted love.
"Nejii," Tenten giggled.
Oh shit, she's so drunk Neji thought before carrying her bridal style towards her bedroom. He turned her attention to Shikamaru who already finished carrying Ini towards the room and Hinata who is fixing the table.
"You go to sleep, Hinata. I'll clean that up for you," Neji said.
"I can do it," she yawned.
"Just listen and go to bed," he said and Hinata nodded, entering her room. Neji took a step towards the stairs. He heard the door shut, the boys already left him.
Neji slowly gripped the door of Tenten's room. He was about to place her in bed when she started talking.
"You know I care for you, right?" She whispered. "I know, Ten, I care for you too. Go to sleep," Neji smiled.
His heart was pounding.
Neji is aware of his feelings for her and sometimes it slips out but it can never be that way, he can never let his feelings ruin their friendship. He's been with her for the longest time and he wants to be with her for all time.
Tenten opened her eyes, "can you stay with me until I fall asleep?"
He was hesitant at first but then he agreed, "alright. Just go rest, Ten."
She patted the space on her bed, motioning him to lay down as well.
I love this girl so much, he thought.
Tenten wrapped her arms around him. Feeling her warm skin on top of his made his mind go feral. Neji has never been like this to anyone. Yes, he sure has a lot of admirers but no one ever compared to the woman laying beside him.
"Neji."
"Hmm?"
"You know, sometimes I wonder what it feels like to touch you," she said.
And what happens when two best friends who have feelings for each other are drunk in one room?
Well...
Shit happens.
"Touch me where?" The brunette teased. She felt her body getting heated up as her arms travel towards the Hyuga's neck.
Neji's hand hesitated but then landed on her face, softly caressing her features. He traced every curve on her face, memorizing them.
Oh how he loved staring at her. He loved when she was near and despised it when she's not. He felt like bursting right there but he had to control himself before this escalates further.
"I... I should leave," he said and stood up.
She followed him.
He knows for a fact that Tenten is drunk. Drunk enough to prevent her from making rational thoughts. Maybe because of hormones.
It's around her ovulation week after all.
It may sound weird but Neji tracked her period every time. The reason? So he can always be ready to give her pads when she forgot them. He makes sure to have a stash of pads for her and only her.
Before he was able to open the door, Tenten stopped him.
"You know, you are so gorgeous."
He blushed.
He's fucking blushing because of her compliment.
Her eyes burned with desire as she stared at him. His lips never looked so fine.
"C-Can I..." she asked.
Neji slowly leaned towards her lip. Their breaths smelled like alcohol but they didn't mind. All they need right now is each other. They need to be closer, close enough like skin-to-skin and soul-to-soul.
"I've always wondered how your lips taste like, Neji," she said with a bit of seductive tone.
Fuck, she's so drunk while I'm still sober. I won't take advantage of her in this state, he thought.
But she had other plans.
Tenten kissed him.
He was stunned the moment he felt her lips against his. He didnt know how to react but he's a slave to his own desires.
He kissed back.
He tasted the alcohol in her mouth and was getting more drunk as they continue their session. Neji placed her hand on her waist, caressing her curves.
Oh how he loves this woman.
Nothing in the world could ever compare to the feeling of his lips on hers, kissing so passionately.
Tenten's hands traveled towards his shirt, slowly unbuttoning the white polo he was wearing and touching his bare chest. Neji felt a chill on his body the moment he felt her warm hands on his chest.
That was the moment he knew that he wanted more. He wanted to feel her more.
"Take off your shirt, Tenten," he whispered between their kisses. His hand reached for the door knob, locking the room so no one can disturb their make out session.
Tenten lifted her shirt before slamming her lips back into his. Their moves slowly becoming more desperate.
Desperate for each other's touch.
He found the opportunity to slide his tongue inside her mouth and explored what it felt to be this close to her.
Tenten moaned.
She traced her abs with her fingers.
"Oh God," she said as she felt how strong his body felt against hers.
Neji lifted her legs as she wrapped them around his waist, never breaking the kiss.
Her hands found their way towards his hair, pushing him closer to her.
She wanted this.
She wanted him.
Tenten wanted to feel him intimately and passionately like the burning love she had for h over the years.
Unbeknownst to him.
She's not that drunk.
She would remember every moment even after she wakes up. On the other hand, she's not sure if he's sober or he's drunk. But she knows that Neji would never do this if he's sober.
He broke the kiss and started to plant small kisses on her neck, nibbling and licking.
"Oh, Neji," she moaned.
This was just too much for her. Her feelings are bursting because of what he was doing. She wanted him to leave his marks and mark her as his.
She wanted to tell him that she loves him right there but she can't form a single thought because of the pleasure she's feeling right now.
Neji smirked.
Tenten took the initiative and unclasped her bra, sliding it off and revealing her chest. Neji blushed at the sight before he sucked on them.
"Fuck yes," she moaned.
"Fuck. That's right, keep moaning for me, baby," he said. Tenten grasped his hair as she wanted more.
Neji took her back to the bed and gently laid her down before positioning himself on top of her. He claimed her lips like a hungry dog so desperate to be fed. Tenten wrapped her legs around his lower body and pulled him towards her.
She blushed as she felt her erection rubbed against her clothed flower.
"Neji please," she begged.
"Hmm?"
"Take me."
And that was when she woke up.
What the fuck, Tenten? She thought to herself.
A knock came from her door, "Ten, it's time to eat breakfast. If you're awake, just come down," Neji said.
Oh well.
That was fucked up.
___________