Mezzo Forte: 25k Hinata meme 1

Mezzo Forte: Hinata/???

Notes: This is a gift to all my watchers on DA and FF.Net readers. A big-big-big! Hinata/??? song meme. Much thanks goes to everyone who made pairing and song contributions, without you guys I wouldn't have the nerve to tackle such an ambitious project. Fifty songs?! Ah, don't think I can take it! -faints-

P.S: To the person who 'dared' me to do 'fifty'- you know who you are: this is all your fault. If I get hand cramps and then get gangrene in my fingertips from being unable to get any circulation back in them...and die from it...this is all your fault!

Please read and enjoy!

Disclaimer: I do not own the anime/manga series Naruto. I merely borrow the characters for nefarious fan fiction purposes.

Key-
Canon/Semi Canon setting: 2, 3, 5

AU( Alternative Universe)
- Konoha Gakuen Special: 1
-
AT (Alternative Time Line/Ages): 4
–
1: I Believe In A Thing Called Love by The Darkness- Lee/Hinata

They say...the road to hell is paved with good intentions. Hyuuga Neji was inclined to believe the saying; as he cringed, groaned, and repeatably face-palmed. Lee...was making an idiot out of himself. Not that the boy making a fool of himself was anything new. But, now there was an innocent bystander being caught up in Lee's insane whims.
–
Two earlier...

“K-Karaoke?” a soft voice questioned. Neji scowled after looking at the sign. Honestly. Their intent was to cheer Hinata up; after her disastrous date with the blond-haired loser. The goal was not to put her, into yet another embarrassing situation.

“Yes! The power of song can heal the deepest wounds to one's soul and...” Lee's exclamation was muffled by Tenten's palm slapped over his gaping mouth. Neji thought he gave her a grateful look, the glare he got in return said otherwise. He really needed to work on communication skills- or so his cousin said. Then again, what did she know. They were here to cheer Hinata up, since she couldn't get across three little words, clearly enough for Naruto to understand.

On the other hand, the boy was rather thick. Hinata's love life aside, Neji for one wasn't going to put her into even more hot water.

“No. Hinata doesn't like these sort of places...”

“I-I'd like to go in. That's alright... isn't it niisan?”

Robbed of the winds in his self-righteous sails, Neji sighed. “Fine. But we're only paying for thirty minutes. And it will be a private booth”

Maybe if it was a more private setting, they could all avoid embarrassment. Hinata, because she didn't like to sing in public. And everyone else, from Lee's over-enthusiastic caterwauling.
–
What started as 'just thirty minutes' bleed into, another thirty minutes, then another, and another...

“Oh! This is a good song! Hinata-san...sing it with me!”

“Eep! B-b-but I...”

In a blur of green, Hinata was pulled out from the booth, microphone thrust into her hand. Lee started singing, horridly off key. Then started gyrating wildly, when the song was obviously much more softer and subtle than his moves- most of which should be deemed illegal or at least obscene. Hinata looked miserable; swaying behind the tempo and stammering out a few words to her and Lee's impromptu duet.

“Time's about up.” Neji said blandly.

“Aw! Already?” Tenten bemoaned, with an amused smile was playing on her lips. Neji opened his right eye, arms crossed over his chest, “Don't tell me you're enjoying this.”

She shrugged. “What can I say? Other people's pain amuses me. Plus, Lee's not that bad...” Tenten unconsciously cringed, as Lee proved her wrong by hitting a high note no human male should.

“I think I hear dogs barking outside.” Neji said dryly, with a smirk as he moved to stand up and leave the booth. Time to wrap this up.

“Here...take this to the front desk.” Tenten slipped him some money.

Pale eyes blinked, “What?”

Tenten shoved the paper money into his palm, “Thirty more minutes.”

“We've done 'thirty more minutes'. Several times over. It's time to go home” he returned behind gritted teeth.

A brown eye winked, “Trust me. Thirty more minutes. Besides, we're doing this for Hinata's benefit. She seems to be having a good time.”

Neji's frown deepened. He might not be able to read Hinata's mind, yet the Sophomore assumed he knew enough to tell when Hinata was enjoying herself...or silently suffering for other's benefit. Right now, it seemed like the later.

Still to humor Tenten, since would do it if he didn't; Neji clenched his fist around the bills. His free hand went to the door. He stopped though when a resounding crash reached his ears. Quickly turning his head, Neji's face drained of color as he spied his younger cousin...pinned underneath his constant annoyance and self-declared rival.

Lee, had the sense to look ashamed, blushing as bright a pink as Hinata. Their bodies were entangled together by the microphone cords.

“I um...Sorry Hinata-san...let me get up. Uh...that's not the floor I am touching.”

Neji saw red as Lee quickly removed his hand from Hinata's right breast. Tenten was howling with laughter, holding her sides while panting, “Can't breathe! I can't breathe!”

Meanwhile, Neji slammed the bills down on the table, then cracked his knuckles.

Accident or not, Rock Lee was going to die.
–
2: His Girl Friday by The Academy Is- Sasuke/Hinata/Naruto

Monday

Hurried steps clapped against the winding stairs, leading up the tower. Arms loaded down with papers, Hinata wondered if it was too much to ask the Academy instructors; to organize and place the test results in folders. She'd have to propose the idea to Naruto-kun, who'd tell Sakura, who'd tell Ino, maybe word would finally reach Iruka-san and tickle his ear.

She could cut out the extra effort and additional ears; but...that would mean speaking up. Even in her twenties, Hinata had trouble swallowing her nerves and pushing through tasks. Arriving at the top stair, Hinata was glad to see the open door of the Hokage office.

Not so glad however to hear Kiba-kun and Hokage-sama arguing.

“That's a wuss mission! It's not even worth the scroll it's written on!”

“It's a D-rank, Kiba! That's what your team is qualified to do...oh hey Hinata-chan.”

She smiled and rushed forward, not noticing the look Kiba gave her. He could tell what Hinata refused to admit. She was still smitten with the blond. Even after he left her waiting. After he broke her heart. Hinata still adored the Seventh Hokage as much as during their Academy days.

“H-here are the proposed Genin squads, Naruto-sama.”

The blond frowned, not taking the papers. Hinata swallowed uneasily, “Um...” she offered, Naruto refused to take the pages yet again.

“Hinata-chan, you know me. Enough of this 'sama' crap, already.”

“B-but...” she stammered, feeling embarrassed at being chided, even lightly; in front of Kiba and his Genin team.

“Say my name right.”

“This is stupid...” Kiba grumbled behind her. Hinata ignored it, for now. Face flushed, the young woman nodded.

“Yes, N-Naruto-kun.”

His broad grin returned, “Better,” then took the papers from Hinata's hands.
–
Tuesday

Her father, Hiashi; once called her the Hokage's paper pusher. Hinata was starting to feel, maybe her father wasn't too far off the mark. Today, she was delivering both Hokage-sama's lunch, Miso Ramen take-away,;and the final results of the annual physicals.

Hinata didn't even blink at the love note tapped to Naruto's lunch, thanks to Sakura. The pink-hair was returning to the hospital after her lunch hour, when their paths crossed. Sakura wrote a brief note probably gushing with praise, love, and kisses and hugs which would reach out off the paper to touch his heart. Hinata smiled and took it, like a punch to the chin. She didn't hate Sakura. Naruto was never hers to begin with. His heart and soul was Sakura's from the start. It just irked Hinata a little, to be used as their carrier pigeon for the exchange of love notes.

If she didn't acknowledge it was there, then Hinata could pretend it didn't exist.

Avoidance worked wonders for her.
–
Wednesday

She couldn't however ignore what was glaringly obvious. The little things Hinata could ignore: pecks on the cheek, love letters tucked among medical documents, and sticky-notes left on his office door. Yet, Hinata would have had to been blind, to miss this.

Face flushed, Hinata stammered and apology and quickly turned to the door. It closed with a 'slam' and she hastily put up a notice. 'In a meeting. Do not Disturb'. Assuming she had the next hour or two off, Hinata hastily left the tower.  Naruto-kun obviously wasn't going to get any work done;  if Sakura's lack of decent clothes was any indication.
–
Thursday

“Quit.”

Hinata flinched at her former sensei's very blunt solution, “I-I can't just...turn and quit, Kurenai-san. Naruto-kun...needs me. He's getting ready to summon the Jounin instructors, the new Genin teams...” she stopped as a fork was waved dangerously between prized eyeballs.

“You're running yourself to near death chasing after him. And those love letters...they are very inconsiderate using you like that.”

“I...I don't mind.” Hinata said. The lie was so good, she had almost convinced herself into believing it.

Before Kurenai could say more, destroy more of Hinata's carefully constructed ignorant bliss;   the Hyuuga quickly stood up.

“T-thank you for having lunch with me, Kurenai-san.”

Red lips pursed, the woman displeased by the change of subject.

“We are not done talking about this, Hinata-chan. You have to let him go. You need to grow up.”
–
Friday
'Grow up'

Those two words scared her, to be honest. Hinata didn't want to admit it, but she was clinging. Clinging to Naruto. Clinging to a childhood crush. Because it was easier to live in the past and not move forward.

What would happen to her, Hinata wondered; if she did decide to let go?

Loving Naruto and admiring him from afar, defined her. Or at least the 'old' her. Hinata wasn't sure, she was ready to change yet again. To move beyond Naruto's encouraging words and the hope beyond hope he'd look her way.

Luckily, she wouldn't see him today. On Fridays, Hinata had a different duty. No love letters to ignore. No awkwardly intimate scenes to stumble on.

Today, she could simply be Hinata. Not the Hyuuga heiress. Not the Hokage's right hand, Hinata-chan. Or the girl, the fox-boy forgot.

Arms loaded down with groceries, this time remembering the double portion of tomatoes; Hinata next picked up the weapons requested to be sharpened. The store owner gave her funny look.

“Uh...Uchiha-san's order. I-is it ready today?”

He grunted, before going in the back room. Nervous, Hinata decided to wait patiently a few minutes. Her patience was rewarded by the owner's return.

“Sure you can carry all of that gear and the food?” he asked.

“Yes. I-I've got it.” said a moment before a bag fell. Hinata winced, eyes closed. Once she dared to open them again, Hinata was relieved not to see a gush of red juice and pulp.
–
She'd arrive like clockwork.

In preparation, Sasuke did something he swear he'd never do for a girl...

He undressed. Even if it was just one article of clothing. Off came the sweat-soaked shirt. He tried to be casual about it, like it was an every day thing; when actually Sasuke only did it on Fridays.

Taking a break, right on time; Sasuke heard the front door to his home open. Timid footsteps coming in, setting down groceries to restoke his fridge. He had enough of a break. Back to kicks and punches against the wooden taijutsu dummy. Since the dobe took up the Hokage's hat; he had probably gained a pot-belly and slower reflexes, from sitting behind the desk and eating all that ramen. Sasuke smirked. He'd show Hinata what a well-trained and dedicated shinobi looked like.

“Oh, you're out here...” her quiet voice reached his ears.

“Hn,” was Sasuke's only reply. Reaching an arm over to his right shoulder, rubbing it. Not that it actually ached. Just a gesture of pain she could refer back to. If not, he could drop better and more visible hints.

“You s-shouldn't overdo it, Uchiha-san.”

She noticed. Good. Sasuke finished his routine, while Hinata pulled out his medical charts, chakra and physical stats. Sakura could have done this task. Perhaps, even better than the Hyuuga woman, now sitting on the back porch to his family home. Yet, Sasuke had refused Sakura's offer. Only after his third beat-up from ANBU guards and resulting hospital stay; did Sasuke relent.

Naruto fired the ANBU squad, left by the Fifth, to guard him. And Sakura set up Hinata, as the one to keep a check on vitals, chakra status, and the binding of his restraints.

At first, Sasuke was uncooperative, in the way he treated Hinata. “Playing hard to get”, was his old sensei's way of putting. Sasuke scoffed at the implication. Yet, had to admit to himself; that was exactly what was going on. Initially, Sasuke himself on a pestle, just to see if Hinata would try to reach him.

When she didn't bother to reach out and change him, it bothered Sasuke. Hinata was compassionate and too nice for her own good. And girls, as a whole; seemed obsessed with “fixing” him. Yet, when she was there, with him; all Hinata was concerned with was her job.

Hinata wasn't worried about fixing his flaws. Nor making him into a better person. Or even, becoming Mrs. Uchiha. Instead, Hinata said little, made her observations, took notes; then went home.

Sasuke cut his exercise short. Nothing special, an average Friday for him. Sitting cross-legged on the porch, he tilted his head to the towel. Hinata blinked, as if to say; you have hands, get it yourself. Yet it was more of a gentle prodding than a sarcastic retort. Sasuke didn't think it was possible for Hinata to be 'sarcastic'. Even Sakura, who once loved him to pieces; couldn't be around Sasuke for too long, before shooting her mouth off.

The smirk returned to Sasuke's face. Well, if she insisted. Sasuke heard Hinata's sharp inhale as he reached across her. He hoped it was because she enjoyed the view; not because he was sweaty and smelled.

One really couldn't tell. Hinata blushed at the slightest thing. She could be embarrassed to see him shirtless. Or embarrassed to tell Sasuke his pits stunk. Sasuke, for once, choose the route of optimism.

Wiping sweat from his brow, Sasuke decided to get Hinata quickly on her toes.

“Had a hectic week keeping up with Baka-sama?”

The blush darkened, “N-Naruto-sama. P-please be more respectful, Uchiha-san. He was the one who saved...”

She stopped and swallowed. Sasuke stared at her neck, yet Hinata was too busy to notice. Preoccupied with her thoughts. Thoughts of him. Sasuke wasn't offended that people thought Naruto saved him from darkness.

However, what really got under his skin; was Hinata's wistfulness and mental wanderings. He may have been living in a rock for years, Orochimaru's lair; however Sasuke wasn't immune to village gossip. Apparently, Hinata loved the Dobe. Still did.

He was determined to change that, but Hinata was making it difficult. Plus, Sasuke wasn't known for his wealth of patience. He sought power in the quickest route possible. This wasn't too much of a difference. The little kid inside of Sasuke wanted to kick, pull her ponytail and scream: Pay attention to me!

“S-sorry Uchiha-san...just thinking. Now, where were we?”

'Nowhere' Sasuke thought to himself, already in a sour mood. Despite his internal attitude, Sasuke complied in offering his wrist for a pulse check.

Hinata was swift and efficient. The last check being his eyes. Since the chakra restraints gave little in terms of daily usage, Sasuke hadn't activated the Mangekyo. Still, it was part of the check up. Hinata gently cupped his chin, a shiver rolling down the young man's spine; without Sasuke's permission to do so, traitorous body.

“Um...”

Sasuke sighed and activated the Sharingan seal. Hinata nodded in response, her Byakugan on. Her eyes scanned the chakra network behind his. Sasuke saw a second ahead before her fingertips touched the stray strand of raven hair.

“I-it's in the way...s-sorry.”

Sasuke grunted, refusing to admit he liked the unintended touch. He should cut it again soon, then again maybe Hyuuga's prized long hair. It would explain Neji. Then again, no. Nothing explained Neji.

The jerk was probably patrolling the Uchiha district now. Making sure Sasuke didn't do anything out of turn to his precious younger cousin. Creep. Sister complex.

“O-okay we're done for today...Sasuke?”

His hand grasped and wouldn't let go. That was Sasuke's excuse and he was sticking to it.

“Do you...want to stay?”

She gasped. Sasuke quickly sought out the words, pushing them out his mouth before Hinata took it the wrong way.

“For dinner. ...you buy...too much food. I don't have guests over, normally. So, most of it goes bad before the week is over.”

A pause, then a very slow nod coming from Hinata, “Okay...I'll stay.”

It was the least she could do, for putting Sasuke through the toil, of cleaning his fridge of rotten food. Sasuke knew her reason was not because Hinata was warming up to him. It was a start though.

The dobe...Naruto, had her the rest of the week. For now, Sasuke would be content with stealing Hinata away on Fridays.
--
–
3: There There by Radiohead- Neji/Hinata

They were three and four.

Skipping pebbles across the koi pond, while the servants hung paper lanterns behind them. Neji's head still hurt, the ugly green mark burned into his skin. Still, Neji took it like a man, like a shinobi to be. Neji smiled, instead of wincing in pain like his body was want to do.

Then she asked, “Does it hurt?”

Instead of saying “yes”, he said nothing. Even then, his silence spoke volumes to Hinata. She blushed then with a wave of her hands brought him closer. So cute, just like a porcelain doll. And like a doll, Neji refused to touch, for fear of breaking her. Yet for all his resolve to look and not touch, Hinata made it so he had to. The girl, all blush and fumbling tiny hands, gripped his. Then her mouth brushed against the bandages wrapped around Neji's head.

A warm fluttering around his chest. He was only four, but this moment felt special and would stand out as such.
–
He was thirteen, she twelve.

So much anger, Neji didn't know where to direct it. So much hurt, he had to lash out at others with corrosive comments, venomous looks, and sneers which made devils scatter. He had to be who he was. Otherwise he'd be lost. Just another face in the Branch family.

Lobbing barbed words at her, made Neji feel better. Every little flinch she couldn't stop, the pain in her milky-opal eyes, was enough of a relief to see him through. Yet, it was like a drug. He'd adjust, become immune, then need a stronger dosage.

He had to cause her pain, because it made Neji feel good. He was powerless in the family, yet Hinata was still weak to him.

Neji felt better about himself, when blood trickled down her lips. She fell quite a few times. A doll refusing to shatter under his touch; but there were cracks, fractures, and peeling paint. He had broken her, yet Hinata refused to admit it. He'd made her admit it. He'd let Hinata know of his power.

But, no. Restraint. Restraint. Restraint. Control. Control...

His fists clenched, threatening to outright sock her in the face. Instead, his palms opened wide as Neji dove forward. He had to make her...stop...talking...NOW!

Then, it was he who stopped. Jounin instructors surrounding him. Of course. Even now, Hinata was protected from harm.
–
They were still thirteen and twelve, but things had changed.

“He hasn't left, yet. You still have time....to say goodbye.”

Neji hated it when she flinched at the sound of his voice.

“I-I could...b-but I wouldn't know... what to say”

Neji thought Hinata was at her best, her strongest; when she said nothing. Yet, it was only him who could read into her silence. So maybe, it was better for her to let Naruto go like this.
–
Sixteen and fifteen...

The world stopped. Just...stopped. Neji found himself unable to breathe. Who the hell was supposed to be watching her?! Where was he? Neji would find him and....

Then it didn't matter anymore. Hinata was there standing in front of Naruto's prone body. Out in the open and facing a man with a red-cloud cloak. It was Neji's worst nightmare come true. And he couldn't wake up.

'Good, you've made your point. Now get out of the way!' Neji thought, but it was too late. Hinata attacked, Pein countered, her body was sent flying. Neji felt sick. He tried to go, but a strong arm pulled him back.

“You don't understand...I have to...” his gaze crossed with Lee's.

“If you go out there...you'll be in danger too. I'm sorry Neji, but we can't let you.”

Neji hated his teammate then. More than Lee would ever know. He couldn't stand there and watch helplessly. His life didn't matter! If Hinata was gone....

If she was gone...

Neji realized, at the worst moment possible; he was already in love with Hinata.
–
Hinata was sixteen. Naruto was an idiot. Neji was beside himself. No words from him could make this hurt any less. Yet, he stood there in the hall, listening as Naruto finally came around to talk to her.

Fists clenched by his side, Neji wanted to walk away. This wasn't a scene he should witness. This wasn't his time.

It ended at last with an exchange of 'I'm sorry', 'It's alright I understand. You love Sakura-san.'

Neji's fist hit the wall. If she 'knew' then why throw herself out there? Why tell the world, only to nearly die afterwards?

Why?

Why?

It didn't make any sense to Neji. Yet for finding the whole ordeal pointless and not understanding Hinata's reasons; he was still there to catch the young woman as she collapsed. The bravado lasted only as long as Naruto stayed. When the blond left, it was Neji left behind to pick up the pieces.

Naruto...was an idiot. Then again, so was Neji. This was the worst kind of love to have. Being so close enough to the person you could touch them daily; yet unable to reach their heart. There wasn't room for him there...
–
She is the Head of the Hyuuga clan. He's still a Branch member. Yet it's his skin Hinata touches, when she needs reassurance. Those elderly men and women could be quite vicious. And like her lips kissed to cool the throb of his head; Hinata is the first, and only,  to touch and taste the ANBU tattoo on his arm.

Neji realized, a long time ago; he was unfit to be her protector- he cared too much, sheltered her from harm and experience, and refused to let Hinata grow up and leave him behind. The worst day of his life, was not his first kill as a shinobi. Instead, it was the day Neji asked to be released of his promise.

Hinata released him, yet the binds on his heart, bearing her name; tightened. He would become ANBU and protect the village. But his heart was sick. It ached and beat for only one person.

The rest of Konoha could go to hell, so long as Hinata was safe from harm. They were going to be each other's undoing.

As he put on his mask, Neji found he didn't mind. He'd gladly go down in flames, so long as Hinata was there with him.
–
4: No More Running Away by Air Traffic- Itachi/Hinata

Death.

It was something common among shinobi, a daily occurrence almost. Naturally, the body counts were higher, during times of war. Yet, feeling the possessions of her intended being pressing into open palms; then looking into the eye of his transplanted into another's body. It was too much.

Hinata just couldn't take it anymore. She dropped the goggles and ran, leaving Obito's parents to explain for her. She felt sick. God, so very sick. Nails bit into the training posts of the Uchiha compound. Her pale eyes didn't belong here; yet Fate, the greed of Fathers, and the grander scheme of things, brought Hinata here. Living with Obito and his family. They were due to get married, once both became of age.

Not now though. Obito was dead. And Hinata felt guilty, for what though, she wasn't sure.
–

Life moved on. Yet, Hinata felt like she was standing completely still. Years poured out before her. Little changed. She was back on active duty, as a Chunnin and the young woman was content to stay that way. Besides, her Father wouldn't risk her trying to become a Jounin. Hinata understood her purposes. She needed to live, in order to breed. Her Father still had his sights on melding the two most powerful clans, together. Through her.

Hinata resisted anyway she could. Refusing each suitor with a U. behind their name. Other than possible mates, Hinata received few visitors. Just herself, her garden, and the occasional mission with ever changing teammates.

He did come by, once. To explain. Maybe apologize for not protecting Obito. Hinata made sure to tell a servant she wasn't feeling well and couldn't accept visitors. Cowardly, yes. But, Hinata couldn't look at him, knowing Obito's eye would be staring back at her, even from behind the tilted head band.

Hinata lived her life in relative normalcy. Until yet another Uchiha entered her life.
–
There was dirt under her fingernails, Hinata hide hands inside her sleeves, hoping no one would notice. The boy sitting across the table did, he couldn't stop staring the dirty knuckles. Hinata swallowed uneasily. Something about this boy...was strange...

Yet, she was more outraged by her Father's pronouncement. Shaking outwardly and sick inside, Hinata stood up. No longer caring if the Uchiha family saw her dirtied hands or not; Hinata place palms on the table.

“I-I refuse...”

“What?” Fugaku-san groused.

Hinata closed her eyes, “He...he's just a boy. Let him grow up...and decide f-for himself w-what he wants.” When really, what Hinata meant to say was, “Let me grow up, let me decide. Let me go of this burdensome obligation.”

She cared about the child too. He was much too young to be engaged. Barely out of the Academy. And she was much too old for him. Eight years apart. He'd wind up resenting her, Hinata knew.

Yet, Hinata felt the selfish tug of self-preservation the strongest. She didn't want to be engaged. Not again. Not to another Uchiha. They expired too quickly. This one, she could tell; would break her heart again.

No one paid her protest any mind. Father simply shrugged, “It has already been decided...”

Hinata shivered then sat back down. Uchiha Itachi. What a strange, quiet, little boy.
–
“Father told me to come here.”

Hinata wanted to return his cold statement with one of her own: “You are not welcomed here.”

The Hyuuga compound belonged to everyone with white eyes; but this garden was all her own.

Still, unspoken or not, Hinata's warning of 'No Trespassing', was ignored. The boy crouched down among the plants, watching her hands work.

“You're not like most girls.”

Hinata flinched, yet kept on working. Any moment now he'd take after his Father, or hers, example and berate her.

“You actually enjoy...working hard. Most girls I've met and talked to, they don't toil unless they have to.”

A pause, Hinata's hands wrapped around the woody stem of a weed, ready to pull and uproot it.

“Why is that?”

Hinata stopped. Brushed dirt off her hands and did what she did best. She ran away. Ran away from an inquisitive ten-year old.
–
He took to following her. Hinata couldn't force the boy to leave her alone. Itachi was only doing what his father asked of him. Eventually, Hinata become comfortable with ignoring him. She went about her business in forced ignorance. Time slipped by her again.

However, as time flew past Hinata without her caring or noticing the change of seasons and years; Itachi had grown stronger, faster, and...bolder.

One day, he had her cornered. Hinata blinked. This was not the ten-year old who crouched in her garden and badgered her with questions. Now he loomed several inches above her. Yet it was those eyes and stern look which made him seem older.

Hands clutched her wrist, squeezing to the point Hinata uttered a small 'ouch' of pain.

“This has to stop. I tire of chasing you” he said, the voice deeper and richer than the squeak of a little boy.

“T-then tell your Father to call t-this wedding off!” Hinata shot back, anger boiling her blood. What was it...with Uchiha men, to think they were entitled to...

To...

Hinata gasped as lips sealed over hers. The kiss was all consuming, just like his dark eyes. She was done for.
–
5: Inside of You by Hoobastank- Kakashi/Hinata

Teeth impressed lightly on a bottom lip, pen tip-taping against a forearm. Looking over the list of graduating Genin students, Hinata was glad her pressistance paid off. This was her second year as a Jounin; so she was constructing her first Genin squad.

So many to pick from, it was a good year for the Academy. Hinata glanced up as she heard the door open.

“Yo.”

“Ah Kakashi-san. G-good to see you again” she said, yet quickly returned to the list. It wasn't until a gloved hand was presented to her...

“Oh, you're taking on a Genin squad this year?” Hinata inquired, it seemed strange he'd suddenly want a team. Kakashi hadn't bothered with another Genin squad since Team 7.

“Why not? Any good picks?” he replied, after Hinata handed him a sheet.

“Um...I'm not sure what everyone else is doing; but I want a tracking team”

“Hn, Inuzuka, Hyuuga, and Aburame. Isn't that a bit predictable?”

Hinata cringed a little at the accusation, she also wondered why he was sitting so close. Too close, in her opinion.

“Well yes, b-but tracking is one of my strong points. I think it'd be better...if I trained a team with a specialty similar to mine.”

“Suit yourself” was Kakashi's distracted response. At first, Hinata assumed he was absorbed in looking over the name and stats of Academy students. Yet, when she was about to leave, having made her choices; Hinata glanced over and noticed Kakashi wasn't reading the sheet. Instead, he was absorbed in one of his Icha Icha Paradise books.

Cheeks flushed pink, Hinata wondered how he got away with reading such...garbage in public. Not that, she ever read those books herself. And never would.

“You're leaving already?” his voice rising up from behind the novel.

“Um yes. I've made my picks, plus it's getting rather late. Goodnight, Kakashi-san”

Her goodbye mattered little, because Hinata was barely out the door and around the corner; before she was followed. Instinct forced Hinata to discreetly glance over her shoulder. Kakashi-san.

'Well, I guess he's going home too. No big deal.' Hinata assumed, keeping her pace casual and steady. Kakashi was quick to catch up, walking alongside her. Again, a little bit too close. Hinata scooted away, not wanting anyone to get the wrong impression.

However, Hinata started getting in an impression too; when Kakashi's path didn't differ from hers. He followed her right to the gates of the Hyuuga compound. Still, Hinata didn't want to assume the worst in anyone. Kakashi's intentions were pure and he was needlessly being a gentleman by seeing her home safely.

A bit annoying and out of character for him; yet Hinata smiled and thanked him for going so far out of his way. Kakashi didn't respond at first, giving Hinata moment's pause.

“Kakashi-san, do you...need me for something?”

“No, it's just. Can I stay with you?”

Pale eyes blinked owlishly, “W-what?”

“Please. I seem to have...forgotten the way to my apartment. Plus there is an issue with my only key.”

Upon seeing her confused glance, Kakashi went on, all the while sheepishly rubbing his hair as the lie was spun into a bigger story.

“You see, a cat came, swallowed the key. And wouldn't you know it, can't find either the cat or my home for that matter...hello Neji.”

“Goodbye, Hatake-san.” Neji replied coldly, waiting on the other side of the gate.

Confused, Hinata watched as Kakashi made a quick getaway, supposedly back to his 'misplaced' apartment.
–
It wasn't long, before Hinata came to become well-acquainted to Kakashi's odd technique of flirting.

A persistent pest from the moment they assembled their Genin squads in the same place. At first, Hinata brushed off the encounter as a consequence. The training ground lacked decent spots for instructing newly-recruited Genin.

Yet, Hinata was starting to doubt her theory, as Kakashi tried to rope her team into the bell test too.

“Um...a-actually I already had something in mind...” a gasp escaped her as Kakashi reached over and tied two bells to her belt loop.

As he explained the test, Hinata tried to stop the blush growing on her cheeks. Unable to look at her students, Hinata knew she had to straighten up when one of them nearly took her head off with a spin kick.

After both teams passed; Hinata walked over to Kakashi, who had taken his book out again.

“Wait, don't tell me. You're going to ask, why did I force your team to take the bell test too?”

Hinata's mouth clamped shut, “N-now that you mention it...why did you do that?”

“Not telling.” Kakashi said with a chuckle, setting her really off balance.
–
This would be a reoccurring theme for them...

One afternoon, Hinata rewarded her team for a mission well-done; by taking them out to a new seafood restaurant in Konohagakure.

“Hinata-sensei...show Ran there's nothing to be scared of. Here, eat one.” Sho offered, oddly a more out going Aburame, than Hinata remembered Shino being.

The female Inuzuka cringed and stuck out her tongue.“Raw oysters?! Yuck! We should have gone to the hamburger place...” she grumbled, holding onto a salt-and-pepper colored puppy.

Though she had never tried raw oysters, she smiled weakly and took the chopsticks from Sho's hand. Hinata put the oyster in her mouth before a voice came from behind them.

“You know, they say raw oysters are a good aphrodisiac.”

“What's an...afro...aphrio...”

“Aphrodisiac” Sho corrected, pushing sunglasses up his nose.

“Yeah, that. What is it?” Ran inquired innocently, this time looking to Kakashi. Hikari rolled her pale eyes in response, not having much patience for Ran.

Kakashi elbowed in next to Hinata's stool. Meanwhile, the young woman was trying not to choke. How...how dare he say that in front of her students!

Face red, Hinata noticed she was having trouble breathing. She'd have to swallow the oyster now. Once the slimly sea-creature was down her throat, Hinata moved to speak. Yet stopped as Kakashi pushed his plate towards her. More raw oysters.

“You seem hungry. Want to share, Hinata-chan?”

“Sensei, why is your face so red?” Ran inquired of Hinata, while trying to keep her dog from sniffing Kakashi's plate.

“W-where are your students?” Hinata mange to sputter out, willing her face to cool. She suddenly envisioned Kakashi's Genin squad standing on a bridge or in the middle of a forest;  wondering where he was.

“I...gave them the day off. To train on their own. They just don't know it yet.”
–
Miles away:

“I still can't find him...”

“Bastard! He ditched us again!”

“No, don't say that. Kakashi-sensei promised he'd be right back...”

Back at the restaurant, Kakashi was making a nuisance of himself. Hinata was not a person to get angry easily. Yet the poke-poke-poke of Kakashi's chopsticks against her cheek, was really starting to irritate. So, Hinata was grateful when her students were done eating and ready to leave.

“G-goodbye Kakashi-san. Enjoy...your oysters.”
–
Things only got worse as the Chunnin exam neared. Hinata felt confident her students were ready...

“Are you sure you want to do that, Hina-chan?”

Snickers rose up from the ranks of Jounin instructors. By now everyone knew her nickname Kakashi used. It wasn't very flattering to know everyone else knew. Also, wild rumors were floating around that they were together. Hinata didn't even know how to deny some of the more risqué gossip; because 'no' was not working.

Hinata ducked her head and attempted to Neji-glare Kakashi-san, into keeping his opinions to himself. It didn't work. Hinata was just too nice to Neji-glare anyone.

Clearing her throat, Hinata repeated her statement. “I'm sure. M-my team is ready to complete the Chunnin exam”

A sigh. “I have no choice then. I'd never hear the end of it, if her kids go and mine have to wait another year. I, Hatake Kakashi recommend Squad 10”

After the Hokage dismissed them, Hinata hurriedly left the room. She wanted to tell her students the good news; but was yanked back with a long and strong arm. Stumbling back, Hinata sighed heavily. She didn't have to look to know who had her.

“K-Kakashi-san, please let go.”

“Sorry...about earlier. I didn't mean to insult you or your students.”

“Well..you did.” Hinata snapped her arm out of his reach.

“I take it asking you out to dinner is out of the question?”

Hinata stopped. Hands by her sides. When would he stop teasing her? He couldn't be serious about a relationship. No, not Kakashi. Also, there was such a wide gap in their ages. What would they have in common?

Nothing. Absolutely nothing. He was just toying with her. And Hinata, while very patient towards people; did not enjoy being teased.

“G-good bye K-Kakashi-san.”
–
The last straw came during the Preliminary Chunnin exams. Just like her first Chunnin exam, there were many participants. The second day of the Forest of Death exam, headed by Anko; Hinata for one was ready to relieve some tension.

Blue eyes blinked, “You...want to help give the massages?”

Hinata nodded, “Yes. It's n-not too much trouble, right? I'd feel more relaxed...helping out than actually...laying down for one.”

Ino shrugged, “To each their own, I guess. You do realize you'll have all sorts of clients, though. Not just other women.”

Hinata nodded, ignoring the implication she had never seen a man naked, or touched one for that matter. She was shy yes, but human. Hinata did have a boyfriend or two since Naruto. The only problem was, the relationships never worked out.

Plus, it didn't help that those 'boyfriends' were arranged by her Father. But that was neither here or there.

“It's a good thing you came by anyway. A lot of our staff is tied up being on call for the Chunnin exam...” Ino prattled on while leading Hinata down the hallway. From the corner of her eye, Hinata 'thought' she spied a stock of silver hair. Freezing in place for a moment, Hinata glanced over her shoulder.

Nothing. He wasn't there. With a sigh, Hinata coached herself to 'get over it'. He must be busy helping with the exam prep. Hinata knew she'd have to be at the tower in a day or two. For today though, she'd take it easy and pray her students were doing well.

“Let's see your first patient will be...” Ino muttered, pulling back the curtain around the massage table.

Blue eyes blinked again, followed by pale white. Though the later set was covered by a palm to the face.

“You're not Iruka-san.” Ino said in a deadpan.

“Funny that. Iruka said something about leaving the stove on in his apartment. Took off running. So, I'm sure you won't mind a walk-in patient. Right?”

Hinata shook her head. She had to get out of here...

Ino stopped her, giving a strong tug to Hinata's jacket, “Actually...I'm not in charge of the massage patients today. Hinata-chan has been nice enough to volunteer today.”

“Ah, I see.” Kakashi replied lightly. Hinata wanted to badly to call him out. He knew! He had to have known!

Ino kept a tight hold on Hinata, “Why don't you undress, Kakashi-san. Hinata, you know what to do.”

Hinata fidgeted and clung to Ino, but the blond left with a wink and secretive smile. Left alone, with the man she was trying to avoid; Hinata looked all around the room. Trying to ignore the rustle of cloth as Kakashi undressed.

“Alright, I'm ready.”

Hinata pulled the curtain aside, blinked, blushed; then pulled the curtain back.

“T-t-towel. Put...o-one on...Kakashi-san.”

“Do I have to? They itch...I have rather sensitive skin.”

“I'm leaving...”

“Wait! I'll put one on.”

His concession gave Hinata little relief. She still had to put hands on him. Once he was decent, Hinata took a breathe then walked back behind the curtain. She starting by tightly gripping Kakashi's shoulders.

“Oww...not so rough. I thought Hyuuga's were supposed to have a gentle touch.” Kakashi chided, the muscles in his back and shoulders bunching. For a moment Hinata found herself distracted by...

No. No. No. And no! The young woman shook her head, indigo bangs swaying with the motion. She would not give in...into temptation. It would only encourage Kakashi and his...

“Ohhh that's better. Much better,” the silver-haired Jounin sighed.

Hinata tried to ignore the flutter of her heartbeat or the jelly-like quiver to her legs. His voice sounded so...

'Stop that. Don't even think about it. If you think about it...about him...Kakashi-san wins.'

The little noises he made at the start, were starting to grow louder and more...sensual.

“Lower...yeah that's it. Ohhhh feels so good, Hina-chan.”

Hinata bit her bottom lip, “P-please Kakashi-san...don't make those noises. There are other patients...here...”

He didn't stop. If anything, the voice behind the mask became louder, taking on a more erotic trill.

“Harder...yessss. Feels...so...ah ah...”

Hinata stopped, hands resting on Kakashi's lower back. Then, she pulled away, pushing the curtain back.

She had had enough! Enough of the humiliation, teasing, and constant barrage of...of him! Every corner Hinata turned, Kakashi-san was there. Teasing. Making fun of her. Making really inappropriate comments. Enough!

“Hina-chan?” he asked, getting off the table.

“N-no...stop.”

Kakashi's single eye stared at her, sitting at the edge of the massage table, “Stop what?”

“T-this! The flirting, the innuendos, the hints. I c-can't take it anymore. Stop...playing with me”

Silence entered the room.

“Who said I was playing with you? Hina-chan, I'm serious. I want to...”

She didn't listen to the end of Kakashi's admission. Curtain shoved out of her way, Hinata hurriedly escaped the hospital room.
–
Notes: This is just a taste of what's to come. Thank you everyone for reading. Please note this meme isn't finished. Still got ten more installments to go! Again, thanks for reading and comments will be loved and cherished!