Naruto Fan Fiction ❯ Closer ❯ Four Little Words ( Chapter 13 )

Series: Naruto, belongs to Kishimoto-Sama

Pairing: NaruHina

Beta: Blueangel236

Author: Lynns (Inu-Hugger and Mysteriousgirl)

 

Four Little Words

 

It was a terrible night. Kurenai sighed softly as she watched the rain outside her window and wrapped the black fuzzy blanket around her even tighter. Tonight was one of those nights when Hitori refused to sleep for more than a few hours. She had put him to bed at 8pm, and he seemed to wake up almost every hour. Not that she blamed her child for waking up every time a loud clap of lightening and thunder erupted in the sky. Even she was having a hard time trying to find sleep with the treacherous weather roaring outside.

 

The soft glow from the kitchen stove indicated that is was close to one in the morning, and she hadn't even got a bit of sleep yet. However, being a kunoichi, she was used to sleepless nights. Perhaps I can persuade Hinata or Kiba to watch Hitori tomorrow while I get some well deserved rest.

 

A sudden knock at the door made Kurenai turn her gaze away from the window. Slowly, she stood up and made her way over to the front door, a worried expression on her face. Usually late night visits meant that there was an emergency or something terrible happened. Pulling the old door open, Kurenai couldn't help but gasp as she stared at her late night visitor.

 

“Hinata? What on earth are you doing out so late?! And only wearing that!?” Kurenai asked, completely appalled. Her old student was soaked to the bone! She was only wearing a dark blue dress and what appeared to be a black suit jacket.

 

Before Hinata could even say a word, she was pulled into Kurenai's home, the door slamming shut behind her. Wordlessly, the older kunoichi moved about her apartment, grabbing towels and tossing them to Hinata before trying to start up a kettle to make some tea. “Dry yourself off and then strip down. I'll grab some dry clothes for you to wear.”

 

Hinata nodded but still remained silent as she slowly slipped off the black jacket and unzipped the dress. The mother kunoichi disappeared for a moment before returning with a pair of fuzzy pajamas and slippers.

 

Fifteen minutes later, Kurenai was back on her couch with Hinata sitting across from her. The Hyuuga hadn't said even one word upon why she was out and about in the freezing weather so late in the night. Kurenai eyed her favorite student carefully and tried to figure out what was wrong. She could tell that Hinata was worried about something with the way her fingers twiddled together, and biting her lip was a sign that she was nervous. Worried and nervous.

 

Next, she eyed the black jacket that was currently draped across the back of her kitchen chair. It obviously was too big to be Hinata's, which meant that it probably belonged to a man - which meant it most likely belonged to Naruto. Without having to think even further, the story of what probably happened tonight slowly started to fall into place. However, there were still some bits and pieces that were currently a mystery.

 

“Did Naruto take you out to Sagami?” Kurenai asked softly.

 

Out of all the restaurants in Konoha, Sagami was the most exquisite, tasteful and high class. The service was superb, and the food was to die for; other restaurants paled in comparison. Personally, Kurenai had never stepped foot inside, but from what she had heard from her friends, it was a place that required formal attire.

 

“Yes. Naruto-kun took me there tonight for dinner, “Hinata whispered, pulling her legs towards her so her chin could rest on top of her knees. “I was really surprised when he told me where he wanted to take me for dinner. He usually just takes me to Ichiraku's or Shiso's because it's much more casual compared to the elegant atmosphere of Sagami's where you have to wear formal clothing.”

 

“Did you have a nice time?”

 

Hinata nodded, but didn't say anything afterwards.

 

“How did you end up with his jacket?”

 

Pale violet eyes stared at the said jacket. “When we left the restaurant it started to rain, so Naruto-kun gave me his jacket. He offered to walk me home, but I declined since it would have been a longer walk for him back to his apartment.”

 

So they have a nice time at Sagami's, but Hinata declines Naruto's offer to walk her home? Wait . . . why would she want to go home to the Hyuuga estate in the first place? Usually, on their dates she spends the night at his place . . . which means . . .

 

“Hinata . . . did something happen?” Kurenai gently pressed on.

 

Hinata's eyes widened slightly and for a moment the Hyuuga had to look away from her former sensei. What felt like hours to Kurenai were actually only a few minutes to the outside world before Hinata looked her in the eyes again. “Yes.”

 

Tears slowly started to swell up, body visibly shaking, and Hinata's breathing quickened to sharp gasping pants, almost as if she were hyperventilating. Kurenai quickly went to Hinata's side and wrapped her arms around the quivering girl.

 

“Take it easy, Hinata, “she coached softly, rubbing Hinata's back in an effort to calm her down. “Nice deep breaths okay? There you go, just like that, deep breaths. Now - tell me what happened. Did Naruto say something to you?”

 

Hinata shook her head. “No, but he . . . he seems so distant lately. This past week he wouldn't really talk to me, and I can tell he's worried about something, but he won't tell me what's wrong. Sometimes he just stares off into space, acting really weird. He's been bringing me presents lately like flowers and cinnamon rolls, but there's no special occasion. And after he gives them to me, I know he wants to say something, but in the end he doesn't. A few times he's even taken off, giving some excuse on why he has to leave. Tonight he finally told me that he's been wanting to talk about our relationship for the past week, but during dinner . . .”

 

“You didn't talk about anything,” finished Kurenai. Looking away from the sniffling girl, she glanced over at the calendar hanging on the near by wall. A knowing smile slowly spread across her lips. “You say this had been going on for the past week?”

 

Hinata nodded, and Kurenai's smile widened. “When he tries to talk to you, does it seem that he's fidgeting with something in his pocket and can't seem to look you in the eye?”

 

“Yeah. Kurenai-sensei, do you know what's wrong with him? I really wish he would talk to me about it, but . . .” Hinata stopped as more tears rolled down her cheeks, “But he tells me that nothing is wrong when obviously something is!

 

“I can't help but think that maybe he wants to break up with me. Maybe he doesn't . . . love me anymore . . .

 

Silence fell over the room and the only sound that could be heard was the harsh rain beating against the glass window. Oh, Hinata, sometimes I think you can be as clueless as Naruto, but then again the months have been flowing by so quickly maybe you didn't realize it. Still smiling, Kurenai placed her hand under Hinata's chin so she could look at her properly. “Hinata, I know that Naruto loves you very much and that he would never want to break up with you. However, you are right, he is nervous about something and is having a hard time talking to you about it. That is understandable, of course. I mean, after all who does he have to guide him on what happens in relationships? No one. Luckily, I'm there for you whenever you have questions or concerns.

 

“Has he ever talked to you about your future together? I know you guys touched on the subject after Hiashi had a talk with him, but have you really sat down together and really discussed what could happen?”

 

“Not really . . .”

 

Kurenai sighed, “I see. Now, Hinata, don't take this the wrong way, but you are completely missing the obvious reason why he's been so nervous lately, and it's painfully obvious. Just from hearing your story I know what the exact problem is.”

 

“You do?”

 

“Yes. First off, what's the date today?”

 

“December 20th.”

 

“And what happens exactly a week from now?”

 

“It's my birthday.”

 

“And if I recall correctly, your father gave Naruto something specific to do before your birthday. Do you remember what that is?”

 

It was as if somebody switched on a light and almost immediately a dark crimson blush spread across Hinata's cheeks. Kurenai had to use all of her will power not to laugh at the blushing kunoichi. “I-I just . . . I almost forgot about that . . .”

 

“I take it the elders haven't been bothering you lately about it? Perhaps their theory is if they don't say anything Naruto will forget to ask you, and when you turn 18 they can intervene and force a husband on you.

 

“Does it make sense to you why he's been acting the way he has been? I'm sure for the past week he's probably wanted to ask you. Bringing you gifts and then taking you out to a nice restaurant, he was definitely trying to be romantic, but it seems like he's still having doubts.” Kurenai pulled Hinata closer into a tighter embrace. “If he asked you, would you say yes?”

 

Hinata nodded, the blush remaining on her cheeks.

 

“Marriage is a big step. You two have taken things slow in your relationship and by doing that you never felt rushed or pressured into doing anything. Taking one baby step at a time. This step, however, you were given a time limit and like you've heard me say before, I wish the Hyuuga elders would take that rule and shove it up their ass. Eighteen is just too young. Luckily your father managed to find a loop hole.

 

“Now, I want you to get up and go see your young man right now. I'm sure he's probably feeling horrible, and he's surely still up sulking about not getting up the courage to ask you. However, before he gets a chance to pop the question, there are some things you two should talk about . . .”

 

**********************

 

Naruto had lost count of how many idiotic stunts he had pulled over the course of his life. Countless times, he had charged into a battle without taking a moment to think of the situation: coming up with the Ninja Centerfold, challenging Tsunade to a fight, the drinking contest he had had with Jiraiya. There were so many other stunts, but his head hurt too much to think of anymore.

 

For the past hour he had been banging his head against his fridge, and for the hundredth time that night he wondered why it was so difficult to say four simple words to the love of his life. Will you marry me?

 

Sighing heavily, Naruto took a seat on his couch and buried his face into his hands. For a week, he had been trying to propose to Hinata, but every time he tried, something went wrong, and it always seemed to happen at the same moment. At first he had tried asking her while they were on a regular date.

 

His first attempt had almost been successful. After giving her a rose, he had tried to ask her, but out of no where her teammates suddenly appeared. Shino seemed to be the only one that clued in on what was happening, and he tried to convince Kiba that they should leave the couple alone, but Kiba had other plans. In the end, he and Kiba had gotten into a scuffle. Needless to say, though, the moment had been ruined.

 

Round two occurred two days later. After buying Hinata a box of cinnamon rolls, he planned to meet her on top of the Hokage monument and ask her there. Perhaps it wasn't the most romantic setting, but at least we were alone! Or so I thought . . . While waiting for Hinata to arrive, Konohamaru found him first and challenged him to a ninja centerfold duel. For the very first time, he declined Konohamaru's challenge and in the middle of their small bicker, he had dropped the ring box down the side of the Hokage monument. As if the fates were really trying to screw with him, at that exact moment Hinata had arrived. Quickly giving her the box of Cinnamon Rolls, he some how managed to come up with an excuse to leave and dragged Konohamaru along with him. (“It's your fault I dropped it; you're going to help me find it!” Naruto had yelled at his arch rival.) Thankfully, by nightfall they found the lost ring, but again the special moment had been completely screwed over.

 

As the old saying goes, the third time is a charm, but in Naruto's case, the third time is a disaster. Yesterday afternoon, he met up with Hinata at Ichiraku's. He had tipped off the old man and Ayame the day before about his plans to ask Hinata the big question. They were more than willing to lend him a hand. The plan had been simple: Arrive at Ichiraku's, slip Ayame the ring secretly and drop it into Hinata's drink, and then when she discovers the ring at the bottom of her cup, ask her! And it was so perfect too! I gave Ayame the ring and everything had started out smoothly! Unfortunately, when Teuchi had served them their ramen and drinks, he had accidentally switched the cups around. When Hinata had finished her glass and there was no ring - for a full minute he had completely lost his mind thinking Hinata had swallowed her engagement ring. Thankfully, however, he soon discovered that the ring had been placed in his drink.

 

I thought finally tonight I could finally ask her! We were at a nice restaurant and none of our friends were around! But then that goddamn waiter just had to make that comment on how messy my hair was! (“Excuse me, sir, I didn't want to say anything in front of your lady friend, but next time you come here could you please make sure your hair is a bit more tidy? People around the restaurant are staring.”) Geez! And I'm not surprised Hinata hasn't come over here lately; she must really think there's something wrong with me! God, could I screw this up anymore? With the way I've been stuttering and staring off into space, lost in my old world . . . damn it! I'll be surprised if she even says yes now!

 

The weather outside sure wasn't helping his mood either. After bidding his girlfriend a goodnight, he had taken his time getting home. He had hoped that getting drench would maybe clear his head, but instead it only made him angry. The more he thought about the past week, the more he wanted to go back to banging his head against the fridge. Hinata would always ask countless times what was wrong, and each time she did he was about ready to spill his guts to her. And usually he did! There were never any secrets between them! This, in his opinion, was different, and for some reason he was having a difficult time finding the words to express his feelings.

 

Kurenai-sensei already pushed all the doubts out of my mind with our talk, so why can't I just ask her like a normal human being? Is it really supposed to be this hard?

 

Blue eyes slowly opened to stare at the small, black velvet box sitting on his kitchen table. Hands slid down his face onto the couch cushions as he pushed himself up. Hesitantly, he approached the small object, as if making a sudden move would cause it to disappear. Biting his lip, Naruto's quivering hand picked up the box and flipped it open to reveal its contents. Inside was a 14K white-gold diamond ring. Even in the dim light, it seemed to sparkle.

 

Two weeks ago, he had asked Iruka to help him find a ring for Hinata, and his sensei had been more than willing to help him. As they wandered from store to store, Naruto was beginning to wonder if he would ever find the right ring. There were so many different types, and most of them were really expensive and out of his price range! The ones that did fall under his budget just didn't seem right for his girl, but he also didn't want to look like a cheapskate. After a whole day of looking, Naruto was about ready to give up. But he counted his blessings when Iruka had suggested they check out a small jewelry store near the edge of the village. There, he had found the perfect ring. It wasn't too expensive, it looked elegant, and it would be perfect for his Hinata.

 

A shaky sigh left his lips. Closing the lid on the box he placed it back on its original spot. Leaning over, Naruto placed his cold hands on the wooden surface of his table, his head dipping down and eyes clenching shut.

 

Who are you kidding, Uzumaki? The reason you're so scared to ask her is because you're afraid she'll say no. That's the worse that can happen, right? Right?!

 

Fear and doubt. It was still something that lingered in his heart when it came to his relationship with Hinata. Why she had chosen him over anyone else was still an absolute mystery to him. He was a loud- mouthed, talentless knucklehead! Countless times she would reassure him why she chose him.

 

You inspire me, Naruto-kun. Whenever I'm around you, I get this intense feeling in my chest. I admire that you have the strength to get back up and the courage to face any opponent. You're kind, smart, funny, and very considerate of the people around you. I love you so much.

 

Knock Knock

 

Naruto jumped. Pulling himself together, he strode over to the front door and pulled on the handle. Standing before him was the last person he expected to see again tonight. “H-Hinata-chan?”

 

At first, he thought he was dreaming - this couldn't be real! The way he had behaved tonight, there was no way in hell that Hinata could be here!

 

“Ohayou, Naruto-kun. Can I come in?”

 

“Of c-course! Come on in!” stuttered Naruto, stepping aside so his girlfriend could enter. Closing the door behind her, he watched her with fearful eyes.

 

Hinata was completely silent. Naruto was about to ask her what was wrong but quickly shut his mouth. Oh yeah, like she's going to tell me! I've been keeping quiet the past week about what's been bothering me!

 

An uncomfortable silence fell over the room, and all Naruto could do was stare at the woman before him. It took all of his will power not to just take a single step forward and close the gap between them. His arms ached to hold her. Because he was being such an idiot the past week - not that that was anything new - Hinata had been very reluctant to have any physical contact with him. The closest they got was holding hands and small kisses. He longed for her to look at him, but for some reason she was staring at his kitchen table.

 

Oh shit!

 

Naruto bolted forward and snatched the ring off the table before hiding it in his pocket. “I, uh . . . I-I-I, um . . . damn it . . .” he cursed under his breath. The surprise sure is ruined now!

 

“Naruto-kun?”

 

Accepting his fate, Naruto turned around, pulled the black box out of his pocket and fumbled with the lid before opening it for her to see. He wasn't surprised at all when he heard her gasp or as her cheeks lit up and her eyes widened.

 

“I'm sorry, Hinata-chan,” he whispered quietly. “This past week has been a complete mess. I was trying to be romantic . . . and, well - you know how unromantic I can be most of the time - I just wanted to make it special. With all the interruptions, I just felt like the moment was ruined and that you . . . I wanted it to be perfect for you and really romantic . . . or at least that's the way I hoped it would go, but every time I asked you, well . . . Kiba interrupted us the first time. I dropped the ring down the Hokage monument the second. The third time was really screwed up because I was going to put the ring in your drink, but somehow it ended up in mine. Then tonight I was going to ask you, but when you went to the washroom the waiter made a rude comment on how I looked . . . it's just been one mishap after another. I'm sorry . . .”

 

His words were cut off by the sudden invasion into his personal space. Hinata was now embracing him, and Naruto couldn't stop the small shiver that ran up his spine. She felt so warm against him - he had yet to change out of his wet clothes - and it took every ounce of his will power not to lean down and kiss her.

 

“Please don't be sorry, Naruto-kun. You were really trying your hardest to make it special, but you didn't need to go through all that trouble. To me, just as long as you told me you loved me, that would have been special enough,” Hinata said softly against his neck.

 

Naruto sighed and finally wrapped his own arms around her. “I know, but . . . I just really wanted to show you how much you mean to me, and I really tried to make it a moment you would remember . . .”

 

Hinata giggled softly. “I think with the way things turned out, it will be a week I'll never forget. Now that I know the whole story, it was a rather amusing week.”

 

“The whole story?” Naruto pulled away from his lover and cupped her cheek with the palm of his hand. “Hinata, what did you think I was trying to do?”

 

Immediately, she felt guilty and turned her eyes away from his. “I . . . I honestly thought that you were trying to be really nice because you were going to tell me some bad news.”

 

“Bad news? Wait! Were you thinking I was going to break up with you?!”

 

“I really didn't know what you were trying to do, but, yes, I did start to think that. Everything was going so smoothly in our relationship, I couldn't figure out why you were giving me so many gifts, and obviously I guessed wrong.” Hinata looked away again, unable to meet his blue eyes. “I'm the one who should be apologizing, Naruto-kun.”

 

Another sigh left his lips. “Maybe we're both to blame for what happened this week. I didn't want to spoil the surprise and tell you what was really going on -”

 

“And I jumped to conclusions on what you were trying to do and pulled away from you,” finished Hinata.

 

Naruto pulled Hinata closer to him and rested his chin on her shoulder. Well, I guess now since she knows about the ring and what I've been trying to do, I can finally . . .

 

“Ne, Naruto-kun? Can we sit down and talk? I want to ask you a few things before you . . . well, you know . . .” The blush on her cheeks darkened even more. “I-I went to see Kurenai-sensei tonight, and she gave me ten questions that we should ask each other before we should consider getting married.”

 

They walked towards the couch and Naruto was the first to sit down on the soft comfy cushions. At first he was expecting for Hinata to sit right beside him, but then she crawled into his lap with her legs straddling his hips, and the look she gave him made his own cheeks darken with a blush. With their current position and the fact he hadn't “been with her” for a week, he tried to keep a level head and not think about the uncomfortable bulging in his pants.

 

After a few more minutes of silence and reconnecting with each other physically, Hinata finally spoke, “I know that we are on a time limit because of the Hyuuga clan rules for this whole marriage thing. However, my sensei pointed out some questions that we should ask each other in case we make a huge mistake by getting married because someone is forcing us to.”

 

Naruto nodded in agreement.

 

Hinata pulled a piece of paper out of her pocket and softly read, “The first question is Are we really in love with each other?”

 

A huge grin spread across Naruto's face. “Well, this is just from my point of view, but I know we are. You love me for all my faults, you haven't tried to change me in anyway, and you're with me even though I've got an evil demon sealed inside my gut. And I love that, even though you can be really shy at times, you share the same nindo as I and have the kindest heart in Konoha. We make each other feel special from time to time - that is unless I screw it up somehow - and we are always happy being together. So I'm going to go with yes for that one.”

 

Tears once again welled up in Hinata's eyes but for a completely different reason. She pulled Naruto closer to her, his head resting against her breasts. “Me too. Me too, Naruto-kun.”

 

The smile he wore never left his face as he returned Hinata's embrace. “So what's question two? I hope none of these are trick questions.”

 

Hinata giggled softly. “No, they're not, but the next one is Why are we getting married?”

 

Naruto froze, and so did Hinata.

 

They both knew the real reason why, and it was for reasons they couldn't control.

 

“Now that is a trick question,” mumbled Naruto, “but to answer it honestly . . . Hinata-chan, can you look at me please?”

 

When she leaned back, Hinata was almost stunned at the determined look Naruto was giving her. “I do feel that we are kind of being forced to get married, but this is something that I planned to happen. I've thought about getting married; however, I wanted us to be a bit older when we did. Usually, when you get married, you have kids right away, but when I talked to Kurenai, she told me that we didn't have to and that we could wait. Basically, I want to marry you because I love you, Hinata, and I don't want to lose you . . . but could we wait on having kids?”

 

Hinata smiled. “Of course. I'm not ready to be a mother yet. I've always dreamed of becoming your wife, Naruto-kun, and even though, like you said, we are being pushed to make this step, I still want to take it. I want you to be my husband, my partner for life. And not to mention, we can take a full year before we actually do get married, so if we have any doubts, then we can resolve them before tying the knot.”

 

Naruto kissed her soundly on the lips. “That sounds good to me. Well, we are two for two, so what's the third question?”

 

“What are your expectations of marriage?” Hinata took a moment to gather her thoughts and tried not to giggle at the cute expression Naruto had while he too was thinking. “Well, I expect you to love me and our future children. I expect you to always tell me what's bothering you and not to keep anything a secret. I don't expect us to have a perfect marriage, rather a happy one. I don't expect that we do everything together because we do need breaks from each other. Your hanging with the guys is not a huge problem - that is unless you do it every night - and I will have my outings with the girls. I expect you to try your hardest and give it your all because I will be giving it mine.”

 

Again, Naruto was smirking like an idiot, but in all honesty he didn't care, “Wow . . . kind of hard to beat that, can I just say ditto and agree with you completely? Haha! I'm just kidding. I expect you to try and keep me in line, especially if I'm about to make a boneheaded mistake. I want us to communicate all the time so we don't end up with any big messes like this week and that one time I attempted to break up with in the beginning. I want you to always let me know if I do something that bothers you. We don't fight a lot, and that kind of bothers me since sometimes I think you're just trying please me and you have no idea how relieved I feel when we do have a small bicker.”

 

Hinata giggled softly, “Fight more often? Isn't that a bad thing?”

 

Naruto shrugged. “Perhaps, but I don't want you to think you have to try and please me all the time. If we disagree on something, then we'll work it out. Sounds fair?”

 

“Yes. The next question is How do you get along with each other's family and friends?” Hinata froze again and regretted asking the question; however, Naruto wasn't fazed by it at all.

 

“Well, for me, Iruka is really the only family I have, he's like a father to me, and he really likes you! As for friends, well, I don't really think that needs to be discussed. And as for your family . . . well, I know your sister, father, and Neji like me, but what about the rest of your clan? I'm sure the elders could care less about me.”

 

Dainty hands slipped over his rough big ones before they intertwined. “Most of my clan does like you. As for the elders, I really don't care what they think anyways. I'm sure they wouldn't make such a big deal out of this if I stepped down as heir . . .”

 

“Is that something you want? Do you want to be Head of the Hyuuga Clan?” asked Naruto. “If you did step down, then we wouldn't be on a time limit.”

 

Hinata shook her head. “I do want it. I want to lead my clan out of this dark hole we've dug ourselves into. I'm sorry. I know it would make things much easier but . . .”

 

Firm lips crashed against hers, silencing anymore words she had prepared to say, but Hinata was fine with that. She had missed kissing him, and now that their lips were locked together, she didn't want to stop. She wanted it to last longer and kiss him until it made her head spin, but all too soon Naruto pulled away and rested his forehead against hers. “Since when have we ever been the type to take the easy way out? If you tried to do things the easy way, do you think you'd still be the same amazing person you are today? Don't worry about it, Hinata. We'll just grit our teeth and bear with whatever the elders throw at us, just as long as I can throw a Shuriken Rasengan back at them!”

 

“I think that's fair. Wow, so far we're doing really well with these questions. Number five is Are you a saver or a spender when it comes to money?”

 

Naruto arched his eyebrow, “Money, huh? Not really sure what to say on that one, but when we do get married, I nominate you to handle the finances. I've lost track how many times my landlord used to disconnect my electricity because I forgot to pay the bill - I have such a horrible memory when it comes to that. Ever since we've been together, you've always reminded me.”

 

“Oh, Naruto-kun, it's really not that hard.”

 

“For me it is. Plus you've at least had your father teach you how to deal with money and finances in the Hyuuga Clan, so in my mind you're perfect for the job . . . just don't spend all our money on designer bags,” Naruto lightly joked.

 

Hinata gave him a small nudge with her forehead. “Well I think we can check that one off since none of us are big spenders. Although, I think we should save up for a bigger place to live in later on in life.”

 

Naruto's smile suddenly disappeared, and he averted his gaze from hers. Before she could ask what was wrong, he softly whispered, “Actually, Hinata, there's something I have to tell you. And I'm telling you this because I trust you completely and I know you won't just suddenly think because I have a lot of money you'll want to spend it all in one go.”

 

“Naruto-kun?”

 

“The truth is I have quite a lot of money in my savings, but it's not in my personal account. After Ero-sennin passed away, Tsunade-baachan and I went over his will - and he left everything to me. I've got to tell you, Hinata, the number of zeroes that in that inheritance . . . well, some days it still makes me dizzy. And I really . . .”

 

Naruto was silenced by Hinata's finger on his lips, “Thank you for telling me that, Naruto-kun, but you don't have to use that money if you don't want to. It's something you inherited from Jiraiya-sama, so you should use it how you see fit. And don't worry, we have plenty of time to save up for a place, I don't mind at all staying in your apartment.”

 

“Really? You don't mind staying here?”

 

“Of course I don't. I think it's rather cozy here, and I see this place as my true home.”

 

Naruto smiled. “That's good to know.”

 

“Besides, I'm sure we'll be fine financially - you and I are quite good at saving. I'm sure we can trust each other enough when it comes to money. Just don't suddenly become a drinker and gambler like Jiraiya-sama.” It was her turn to tease him a little.

 

A deep chuckle left Naruto's throat. “That won't be a problem. Wow, is it just me, Hinata-chan, or does it feel like we're real adults talking like this? About money and where our life is going?”

 

Hinata nodded. “Yes, it does feel like that, but that's a good thing, right?”

 

“Yeah, definitely a good thing. I think we've got that one covered; what's number six?”

 

“Are you two able to fight fair? Didn't we already talk about that?”

 

“Yeah, and we do fight fair. We don't yell at each other or get violent - unlike Sakura, who beats the hell out of anybody who really ticks her off. And, besides, one stern glare from you, and I'm completely good for the whole day!”

 

Hinata rolled her eyes. “You're hopeless sometimes, but that's what I love about you. Seventh question is Do you want children? If so how many? Well, I think that - Naruto-kun?”

 

The blond ninja suddenly pulled his girlfriend closer and buried his face in her neck, his arms pulling her tightly against him. “Heh, I think you might not like me if I tell you how many kids I want . . .”

 

A tiny frown formed on Hinata's lips. “Naruto-kun, I could never hate you.”

 

“So me wanting ten kids wouldn't bother you?”

 

Ten kids?

 

Her breath hitched, and pale violet eyes widened.

 

Ten?

 

“N-Naruto-kun . . . you really want that many?” whispered Hinata, blood rushing to her face so much she resembled a tomato.

 

“I do. I want lots of kids, but, like I said earlier, not right away! I know that sounds like a lot, but, Hinata, I promise I just won't abandon you or anything like that with them. I want to raise our children together, and I know that means doing some dirty work, waking up in the middle of the night, and trying to discipline them . . . but I will do it because I want that in life. And if I'm not pulling my weight, you can go ahead and Jyuuken my ass.”

 

“Um . . . okay, Naruto-kun, but you also have to realize that I'm the one who goes through the pregnancy and that some of the symptoms I go through-”

 

“I'm well aware of that, actually. Kurenai-sensei pulled me aside one day and gave me the down low on some of the emotions and cravings she went through. And if it means I have to treat you like a princess for nine months every time, I'll do it. She even wrote me up a list of signs and symptoms that occur when women get pregnant.”

 

“She did?”

 

“Yeah, she told me if you showed any of the symptoms before we get married, at least I would have a small head start to write my will before she and your father kill me.”

 

Hinata couldn't help but giggle. Suddenly, the thought of Naruto waiting on her hand and foot was rather amusing. “Okay. Even if I'm craving ice cream and pickles at three in the morning?”

 

“Just wake me up, and I'll head down to the nearest 24-hour convenience store to get you some.”

 

The blush on her cheeks lessened. “I'll hold you to that, and you better not complain once.”

 

“I won't. So what's the next question?”

 

Glancing over at the piece of paper, Hinata opened her mouth to read it aloud, but she immediately stopped, the blood rushing back to her face so quickly that Naruto was scared she was going to faint.

 

“Hinata-chan? What is it? What's wrong?”

 

Naruto didn't even wait for an answer. With quick ninja skills, he grabbed the paper from her hand and scrolled down to question eight which said Do you like or enjoy having sex? A sly grin spread across his face. The uncomfortable bulge in his pants returned as Naruto shifted so he could whisper into Hinata's ear, “Well, I don't even think we need to talk about that because right now I can't stop thinking about all the passionate nights we've shared.”

 

Hinata squirmed. “Naruto-kun . . .”

 

“Although . . . I have to say, Hinata-chan, I do wish you would be a bit more vocal in the bedroom. I wish you would tell me what you want and how to please you more . . .”

 

“But, Naruto-kun . . .”

 

“No buts, Hinata-chan! You know I always tell you what I want, but sometimes it's hard for me to tell what you want. I'm not a mind reader, and I know right now our sex life is amazing, but I know it can be even hotter. Promise me that you'll try to talk to me more about it, okay?”

 

“I'll t-try, Naruto-kun.” Hinata stuttered softly.

 

His grin widened. “Good. I don't expect it to happen over night, but slowly would be nice. And I want to let you know that since I'm a pervert - I still say you like it that I am - I've got some pretty kinky ideas that I'd like to try. Would you be willing to hear them?”

 

Hinata closed her eyes, too embarrassed to look Naruto in the eye as he whispered some of his fantasies to her. She had to start taking long, deep breaths to prevent herself from passing out, but as Naruto continued his list of passionate mornings, afternoons and nights of how he wanted to ravish her, his last confession almost did her in. “A k-ka-kage bunshin?!”

 

A deep, husky chuckle answered her, followed by, “Oh, I'm sure you'd like it, Hinata-chan. After all, you would be the one receiving most of the attention there, and you know how much I love to please you in any - (kiss to her right cheek) - way - (kiss to her left cheek) - possible - (lips fully on hers).”

 

Hinata squeaked, and Naruto chuckled again. As much fun as it is to tease Hinata-chan about this, I'd better stop before she passes out on me. Masculine hands slowly started to roam across his lover's body. Even though she was just wearing fuzzy PJs, in Naruto's eyes she was still sexy and hot, no matter what she wore. Although, I must say, the less clothing she has on, the better . . .

 

Violet eyes finally snapped open when Hinata felt Naruto's lips on her neck, his tongue making swirling patterns and his teeth lightly nipping at her flesh. “W-wait! Naruto-kun, we haven't discussed the other two questions yet . . .”

 

“I already looked at them. The last two are Do you share the same beliefs? and Do you communicate well? The answers to those are quite obvious I think. We share the same nindo and we've both communicated really well - aside from the two times we screwed up. So now that we've agreed to all of the questions, I think it's time I showed you how much I love you, Hinata-chan . . .”

 

“N-Naruto-kun . . .”

 

Leaning back until his body was propped up by the couch, Naruto pulled Hinata closer to him. His body already felt like it was on fire, and with the way things were going it was only going to get hotter.

 

Their hips were now grinding together, and it made Naruto smirk inwardly that Hinata was craving it just as much as him. However, a thought slowly brought him back to reality and it took every ounce of self-control left to pull his lips away from hers.

 

Wordlessly, they stared at each other, and Hinata gave her lover a questioning look on why they had stopped. Everything soon became clear when Naruto pulled the ring box out of his pocket and flipped the lid open with ease as if he had practiced for this moment.

 

“Hyuuga Hinata, would you marry me? Please?”

 

Hinata almost didn't hear him with how fast and loud her heart was beating. For a moment, she just stared at Naruto as her vision started blur. Tears rolled down her cheeks, and her body started to shake. Finally, after what seemed like an eternity - much to Naruto's worry when she didn't answer him right away - she softly answered, “I will. Of course I will!”

 

Naruto jumped off the couch. “YES!”

 

A surprised cry left the Hyuuga's lips from Naruto's sudden movement, but she wasn't surprised at all that he managed to jump up off the couch easily with her still in his lap. Her legs wrapped around his waist firmly as he spun her around and while continuously whispering `yes' in the crook of her neck.

 

Finally he stopped spinning and set Hinata down. He just couldn't seem to stop smiling! Pulling the ring out, Naruto slipped it on her finger and could not help but inwardly sigh when it fit her perfectly. Thank god Iruka-sensei has a sharp eye for this kind of thing - I almost got the ring size wrong!

 

The sight of her wearing his ring and the reality that she was going to be his wife made Naruto shiver with want and the need to make love to her slammed into him harder than ever before.

 

Hinata was literally swept off her feet as Naruto picked her up and enveloped her in another kiss. Without saying another word, he carried Hinata off to their bedroom. It was a raw passion that he had never felt before. The new desire that coursed through his body was something new and exciting at the same time.

 

Familiar feminine hands explored his upper body and pulled off his wet clothes with ease, tossing them onto the floor. Their lips were locked in a searing kiss that just made both of their bodies completely burn for the other. With the cold weather outside and the temperature quickly rising in the bedroom, the windows were already starting to fog over.

 

“Hinata-chan?” Naruto panted against her lips, shivering as he felt her naked body against his own, “would you mind if I -Oh, god yes, just like that- if I asked you what one of your fantasies is?”

 

Hinata pulled her hand away from his erection and shyly shrank away from her lover. Her eyes refused to meet his blue ones, and Naruto almost felt guilty for asking her; however, he pushed on, knowing this was one step they needed to take.

 

“You can tell me. I want to know what you desire, Hinata-chan,” whispered Naruto against her neck, feeling her quickened pulse against his lips. He couldn't tell if it was because she was excited or extremely nervous . . . or perhaps it was both. However, she still remained silent, and Naruto concluded that she wasn't just going to outright say what she wanted; he would have to slowly coax it out of her. His hands slowly moved up her sides, feather-light fingertips brushing against her soft skin. Feeling her shiver in his embrace caused him to smirk. “Do you like that? When I touch you?”

 

Hinata nodded.

 

“Tell me . . . tell me you like it. I want to hear that sexy voice of yours.”

 

He could hear her take a deep breath before she whispered, “I do . . .”

 

That's it . . .

 

“Just tell me when you like something, Hinata-chan . . . usually I can tell by your reactions, but I want you to tell me. Please?”

 

Never had she denied Naruto anything, so why was this so hard? He was her lover and now her fiancé! She knew how Naruto loved to be touched, what positions he loved, and even that his favorite time to make love to her was early in the morning. And how did she know that? Because he told me . . . Naruto-kun has never been afraid to say what's on his mind or what he's feeling. He's always been so open with me, and here I thought I was too . . . but I haven't been open in the bedroom. Feeling Naruto's hands on her breasts caused Hinata to whimper softly and lean more into his touch. How she loved it when he touched her there. Yes, she was self-conscious about the size of her breasts since they were much larger than most girls', but dear god did it feel good when he touched her there. Feeling that familiar shiver run up her body, Hinata decided that it was time she took that small step to being more open in the bedroom. “That feels so good . . .”

 

Naruto stopped caressing her for a brief moment, a full blown grin spreading across his face before he leaned down and started kissing the swell of her left breast. “Do you like it better when I use my hands or my lips?”

 

Hinata moaned softly, hearing Naruto's muffled question, the vibration against her chest made her shiver more with want. “B-both.”

 

Still smiling, Naruto went back to kissing his favorite part of her body. Good job, Hinata-chan, you've taken a really big step tonight, you don't have to say anymore tonight. This is something we can slowly work on. Closing his eyes, Naruto now fully concentrated on pleasuring the woman sitting in his lap. Kissing and sucking on her soft skin, the sounds she made were absolute music to his ears. The pulsing pleasure that was coursing through his body was almost too much to handle, and he desperately wanted to make love to her now.

 

Hinata silently congratulated herself for actually saying something more than `Naruto-kun' and `please' while they were in the bedroom. Usually, she was just quiet and tried to show Naruto what she wanted, but obviously it was important for him to hear her say what she wanted. Now that she had taken this step, was she ready for the next? Confess her fantasies to him? I can do this. Naruto-kun already told me most of his fantasies, and he didn't even blush!

 

“N-Naruto-kun . . .”

 

“Yes, Hinata-chan?” Naruto mumbled against her left breast.

 

Feeling his hips grinding harder into hers, Hinata was finding it hard to speak any coherent words. “I-I want to tell you . . . my fan-fantasies . . .”

 

Naruto completely stopped what he was doing, his head snapping up to look her straight in the eyes. “Really? You want to tell me?”

 

Hinata nodded, and he smiled gently at her. The way his blue eyes bore into hers some how gave her the courage to tell him her deepest, darkest desires. It was a fantasy that she had been considering for sometime, and most surprisingly it was something that Naruto had suggested to her earlier on. Yes, it was extremely embarrassing . . . but this was her Naruto. He was her lover, her soul mate and her fiancé - she could tell him anything.

 

“K-ka-kage bunshin . . .”

 

Naruto's eyes widened. Did she just say what I think she did?

 

“I-I . . . I've always been curious what it would be like if . . . if one of your . . .”

 

What felt like an awkward silence to Hinata was actually a moment to Naruto as he subtlety jumped for joy that she was willing to do this with him. Now that we're going to be even closer than before, I can't wait to try and discover all these new things with my Hina-chan!

 

“Really, now? I never knew I had such a naughty Hyuuga in my bed, but I must say it is a pleasant surprise. Just remember that you requested this, Hinata-chan, so don't blame me if you don't get any sleep tonight . . .”

 

When Naruto first summoned, a clone she had been extremely hesitant to actually go through with it. However, after some gentle coaxing from Naruto and mentally reminders that she asked for this, she was able to go forward. It was strange to begin with two Narutos touching and kissing her, but, as the night carried on, Hinata soon found it hard to think straight.

 

Any embarrassing or hesitant thought left in her mind had completely left; the only thing she could think of was if she would be able to handle the immense pleasure pulsating though her body. And with the way Naruto was touching her, it was surprising she was able to think anything at all.

 

Her back was against the real Naruto's hard chest, his left arm wrapped around her waist while the other hand was splayed across her lower abdomen and was slowly moving down to the most sensitive part of her body. A high pitched moan left her lips when she felt her lover slide into her moist center from behind. Hot lips kissed and sucked on her smooth, sweat covered skin. Hinata cried out again before reaching behind her and grasping a fistful of Naruto's blond hair as she felt another set of hands start to caress her breasts.

 

Through half closed eyes, she watched as the kage bunshin smiled down at her before kissing her deeply, its tongue slipping into her mouth while its hands continued their merciless assault on her breasts.

 

The coiling spring in the pit of her stomach was winding tighter and tighter. The sweat rolling down her body, the sound of their skin slapping together, the soft grunts both of her Narutos were making, and the extra build of pleasure sweeping over her . . . it was so amazing . . . it was all too much to handle!

 

Hinata didn't care if she sounded ridiculous as she cried out in pleasure. She didn't care if perhaps to some this fantasy would seem wrong or disgusting. Right now, all that mattered was the intense release that shook her body from the very core.

 

“Hmm-ah! AH! Oh god! Naruto-kun!”

 

Naruto completely loved hearing Hinata's sighs and ecstasy-filled groans as he pleasured her, but when she started moaning louder, he honestly didn't think he would be able to last any longer. Then he felt it, and he heard her cry out her pleasure to him in words he had never heard her utter before. He too cried out his release and pounded out the rest of his orgasm.

 

With a small pop, the clone disappeared, and the only sound that could be heard in the bedroom was the sound of their harsh breathing; it was as if they had just finished running a hundred laps around Konoha. Both of the lovers shivered as Naruto pulled Hinata's sweat covered body tightly against his own before leaning back. With a loud creak from the bed they landed on their sides, the cool sheets feeling wonderful against their burning bodies.

 

After finally catching his breath did Naruto breathlessly whisper, “Wow . . . that was - was so amazing!”

 

Hinata hmm'd in agreement and whispered back, “It really was . . .”

 

Grinning from ear to ear, Naruto propped himself up and kissed Hinata soundly on the lips.

 

“Thank you.”

 

“Why are you saying thank you? I'm the one who . . .”

 

Naruto silenced her with another kiss. “You don't understand, Hina-chan. I'm so happy that you opened up more to me and took a step out of your comfort zone to try something new. It sure was worth it, wasn't it?”

 

Her first reaction was to turn her eyes away from his cheeky and knowing gaze, but she held her ground and smiled back at him, “It was.”

 

For a few more minutes, they cuddled on their bed, kissing and lightly caressing one another, relishing in the moment they had just shared and reconnecting after a long week of mishaps and misunderstandings. As blue eyes took in the sparkling ring that was on Hinata's left hand, the desire to show her how much he loved her hit him strongly, and he could already feel his body becoming aroused again.

 

Feeling his body already recovering from the mind blowing release, he slowly rolled on top of Hinata and gave her a chaste kiss. “It's still dark out, and I plan on physically showing you how much I love you for the rest of the morning and all the way into the afternoon. I don't plan on stopping until all the strength has left my body . . .”

 

Soft hands slipped around his neck and tangled into his hair. “Me too. I want to show you how much you mean to me.”

 

Neither of the two lovers found sleep in the early hours of the morning and would not find rest until later in the afternoon.

*************

 

Two Days Later

 

The storm had moved on after a couple of days, but the cold weather still remained. Hyuuga Hanabi shivered as she made her way home and wrapped the scarf around her neck tighter. A light blush dusted her cheeks as her hand came up and lightly brushed her lips, remembering where Konohamaru had just kissed her moments ago. Giggling softly, she picked up the pace so her father wouldn't be too angry at her for coming home an hour late.

 

Pushing open the front gate and closing it behind her, Hanabi made her way towards the front door of the Hyuuga estate.

 

“Tadaima,” she called softly and was not surprised at all when no one responded. However, what did surprise her was the sight of two pairs of sandals on the floor that she had not seen in a while. Nee-chan is finally home, but what is Naruto doing here?

 

Curiosity getting the better of her, the young Hyuuga tiptoed her way to her father's study, and sure enough she could hear voices on the other side of the shoji.

 

“Very well, Naruto. I'll go along with the terms you've set. Hinata will be allowed to live with you now that you're engaged; however, I too have some terms I'd like to discuss with you.”

 

Engaged? Oh my god! Nee-chan is going to get married! Hanabi smiled and silently did a happy dance in her head.

 

“Y-you do?”

 

“Yes. First of all, I expect you to become more familiar with our clan and how it is run. This will give you an insight of your future family, not to mention I believe it will be useful for when you are named Hokage. I wish for you to attend our meetings, learn our history along with the history of Konoha, and how to be more diplomatic. And before you protest just take a moment and actually think about. Have you seen the way the Hokage's desk is always covered in paperwork? Would you even have the slightest idea what to do with it? Do you even know how to write a business letter to someone? I didn't think so. Now, do you think perhaps it's a good idea to take me up on my offer? Good response.

 

“Second. Perhaps you may not agree with me on this, but in the long run I think it will make things much easier between you and the elders. They have agreed not to override me with the choice of Hinata being the next Head of the Hyuuga clan, so long as you change your last name from Uzumaki to Namikaze. Close those lips of yours before I cut them off, let me finish! I know what you're going to say, so zip it! You've always been known as Uzumaki Naruto, and, in all honesty, I don't think you should have to change your last name. However the elders and some other members of the clan think it will be more beneficial if you do change it. That way everyone will know that the son of the Yondaime is married to the next Hyuuga Heiress. Now you may speak.”

 

“Sir. I understand what you're saying and really I have no desire whatsoever to change my surname. However, I am willing do it if it will make things easier for Hinata.”

 

“But Naruto-kun . . .”

 

“It's okay. Hinata-chan. I was kind of expecting this when we came here to talk to your father. Really, it's okay. I'm still the same Naruto everyone knows and loves, but I'll just have a different last name. Now, if you were going to make me change my last name to Hyuuga, I'd be putting up more of a fight.”

 

“Really now? What's so wrong with the name Hyuuga?”

 

“N-nothing really, sir! It just doesn't sound right with my name, Hyuuga Naruto, just not the right ring to it!”

 

“I see. Well. in any case, please be sure to have your name changed soon, and I will make the announcement to the rest of our clan and the Land of Fire soon.”

 

“Wait, you're going to tell everybody in the Land of Fire?”

 

“Oh, not just everyone here. I will also be alerting the Kazekage of your engagement - the Hidden Sand Village is one of our greatest allies after all.”

 

“Oh god . . . does this mean we're going to have a huge wedding?”

 

“Of course. Like I said, the matrimony between the Yondaime's son and the Hyuuga Heiress will be a huge celebration. And don't worry about costs for this whole ceremony - I'll be covering it all.”

 

“B-but sir . . .”

 

“You want me to change my mind and let you pay for it?”

 

Silence.

 

“Again, good answer. Now if you'll excuse me, I have to have a chat with my other daughter who is currently eavesdropping on us and teach her lesson about what happens when you come home an hour late.”

 

Hanabi froze.

 

**********

 

 

 

Author Notes:

 

Ring: I searched all over the internet to try and find a nice, simple ring that Naruto could give Hinata, but most of them were too flashy and too expensive. Then I stumbled across this one and thought it was really nice.

 

http://www.kay.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/product1%7C10101%7C1 0001%7C-1%7C940179625%7C15051%7C15051.15057.15107

 

Week of Hell: Yes, Naruto sure had a rough week trying to pop Hinata the question. The idea for the mishaps came from two places. One, the same thing happened to my uncle when he was trying to ask my aunt to marry him. He would try to set up the perfect moment, but every time something would always go wrong. Two, the scenario of Hinata thinking that Naruto was going to break up with her came from someone else. For the life of me, I just could not figure out what Hinata would think of the strange way Naruto had been acting. At first, I tried to imagine what I would think if my boyfriend was acting strange, and, in my case I would probably beat it out of him, and as we all know Hinata is not like that. Then while skimming through deviantArt, I stumbled across Mattwilson's online comic, `NaruHina Chronicles'. After reading the proposal chapter, it finally hit me what I could do with the beginning of the chapter! So all credit goes to Matt for that one.

 

Ten Questions: Found these questions online h t t p : / / w w w . t e l l i n i t l i k e i t i s . n e t / 2 0 0 8 / 0 9 / q u e s t i o n s - b e f o r e - m a r r i a g e - q u e s t i o n s - t o - a s k - b e f o r e - g e t t I n g - m a r r i e d . h t m l

Before anyone gets married, they should really ask themselves and their partner these!

 

Previous Chapters: The first four chapters have now been editing and now should be grammer and spelling error free!

 

Anyways that is it for now! As you can see the story is slowly starting to come to an end. Right now. I have two more chapters planned out for the rest of `Closer' and maybe an epilogue.

 

Lynns