Disclaimer: I don't own Naruto and company. That distinction belongs solely to Masashi Kishimoto. I merely will toy with them for a short time before returning them.
Rating: For now, I'll stick to a teen rating. However, there will be language and adult situations, so if that's not your bag then please don't read. Rating may possibly go up in later chapters.
Summary: Tenten discovers that her teammate, Neji, is being thrown into an arranged marriage and she's torn inside, whether to reveal her feelings or let him live the rest of his life in ignorance.
This is dedicated to all you Neji/Tenten lovers out there. You guys, and fellow writers, are my inspiration. And a warning to those of you who are sticklers for strict characterization....there will be OOCness, so please don't slam me telling me how OOC they are because I guarantee you your words will fall on deaf ears. This will be the only warning for the entire story in regards to OOCness. Thanks.
Torn
Chapter 1: The Shoe Drops
Chest heaving, sweat rolling down her face and the rest of her body, brunette hair tied securely into dual buns, Tenten watched her teammate, Neji Hyuuga, carefully, trying to anticipate his next move. She spun into action and sent kunai, shuriken and pointed weaponry in his direction. As predicted, he immediately took up his stance, which he rarely relaxed during training, and rotated his body rapidly, the kaiten knocking away each and every weapon to the ground.
He seemed focused, but at the same time, the look in his eyes said otherwise. His eyes possessed a conflicted look, a distracted look. Definitely not Neji. He'd been like this for several hours. Not to mention he'd been late, another characteristic Neji never indulged.
Dropping her scrolls to the ground, she ran towards him, prepared to engage him in taijutsu, despite it being her weakness; knowing she'd lose, she ran headlong into the beating sure to come.
She smirked at him and his eyes narrowed. "What?"
Her smirk grew. "Nothing."
She was inches from him. Sending a flurry of kicks and punches at him, which he instantly and perfectly defended against. Big surprise there. She'd never beaten him at taijutsu. Never. He was too damned good. He wasn't a prodigy for nothing, after all.
Several more minutes passed and Neji thrust his palms forward, hitting her in the sternum and ribs. Her petite body flew backwards, blood spewing from her mouth as she hit the ground.
Guarding her ribs, she attempted to get up. "Ouch," she said quietly, hoping he wouldn't hear.
Damn! That really hurt. Tenten couldn't remember an incident where he'd ever hit her so hard. What was his problem? More than ever this proved her theory that something was going on. More than ever she wanted to know what it was.
Trying to ignore her pain, she coughed, staining a small portion of the ground red. Why'd her injury have to annoy her so? And why did she have to appear weak. She didn't want Neji to think her a weakling. He was so strong. But she knew no amount of training would ever elevate her to his level. She'd never be as good, as strong or as powerful as him. And that thought pissed her off. If anything, she'd take being on the same level. Forget surpassing him. She'd be satisfied just to be his equal in each and every way.
Maybe she ought to approach Tsunade and request an apprenticeship with her. To train with her as Sakura had done. And look how her pink haired friend had turned out. Sakura was one of the most powerful medic-nins in the entire village.
Brown eyes met white. The cool expression had returned. Cool and haughty. Typical Neji. Or Typical Hyuuga should she say. All the Hyuuga men were this way, even Neji's uncle, Hiashi.
She was surprised, though, when he held out his hand and helped her to her feet.
"Are you alright, Tenten?" He asked her, concern in his voice. His tone belied the expression he wore; cold, unconcerned.
"I'll be fine, Neji," she returned with her trademark smile.
A smile so bright, so genuine, he could lose himself in it. A smile that accompanied a heart as generous and open as that same smile. A smile he'd kill for, die for. Not that he would ever reveal his feelings.
The two shinobi sat on a patch of grass, under a shaded area, sipping water from their canteens.
Tenten felt now would be the best time to breach her suspicions, see how unfounded her concern actually was. After all, maybe her teammate was simply having an off day, only Hyuuga Neji didn't have bad days. With him there was no such possibility. He was Hyuuga. Hyuuga's didn't have bad days.
She took a deep breath and let it out. "Neji?"
"Hm?"
"May I ask you a question?"
Neji glanced over at his friend and fellow team member cautiously. He nodded and said, "You may."
"What's going on with you?"
She had his full attention for certain now. It felt like his pale white gaze was piercing her, burning a hole in the center of her being.
"Nothing," he replied. "Why do you ask?"
Okay. Here goes, she thought. "You've been late to training, you're distracted most of the time, you ignore Lee more than usual and to top it off.....you barely associate with me anymore." Tenten felt the hurt which had been accumulating release. "You don't eat with me or walk me home, and unless it's for training you don't even acknowledge me. So what's going on?"
A breeze stirred, ruffling the strands of his long dark hair, filling the silence which fell between them.
Inwardly Neji groaned. He'd known it wouldn't take his astute teammate long to figure out something was up. She'd known him far too long. She knew him, and his habits, too well.
"Neji, what is it?" Her concerned voice broke into his internal reverie. "You know you can trust me, right?"
She lightly placed her hand on his. "It can't be that bad, can it," she teased, her laughter light as the wind.
Rubbing his temples he muttered, "Clan trouble."
"Oh", she whispered. "That bad, huh?"
"You have no idea." His frustrated reply sent off warning bells, which she chose to ignore.
"If you don't want to talk I understand, but if you do....I'm here," she said with a smile and her hand reached out to lightly touch his shoulder; to show her support.
"I'd rather not."
Disappointed, she replied, "Okay. I understand."
Neji knew her feelings were hurt, but the so called "clan trouble" wasn't up for discussion. That was per Hiashi's orders. On a brighter note, his next words would cheer her up, so he hoped.
"Tenten, my uncle is hosting a dinner tonight and your presence is expected. The dinner is at six."
Silently, the weapon's mistress fumed at his arrogance; that he would just assume she was available and would come. Like uncle, like nephew. Typical Hyuuga's. Always putting others out, if only for their own convenience. Honestly, she felt conflicted. She wanted to go; yet she didn't.
There was a heavy feeling in the pit of her stomach leaving her with an ominous feeling. She couldn't explain it nor did she want to. All she knew is that she didn't really want to be a willing participant in this dinner, but Neji's uncle would have his way, one way or another. And she knew she'd go, if only for him. Anything for Neji. He had her and wasn't even aware. How could he be such a genius and be ignorant simultaneously?
"Will there be anyone else there that isn't Hyuuga?"
"I don't know", he answered honestly. "I'm unaware in regards to the contents of the guest list."
"Hm."
Neji smirked. "That's my line, you know."
"Yeah. And you're such a bad influence, too." She fired back, a mischievous grin across her lips.
Neji chuckled at her reply. She certainly had a fiery personality. One that he liked. One thing, though, he wished for once that he could see her without her reservations. His family always made her somewhat nervous, with the exception of Hinata and Hinabi. He'd love to see her relaxed and in her element as she was in training. To see her like that with his family....he couldn't ask for more. But to be truthful, he didn't really give a damn what his family thought, it was just out of respect and his raising that he gave them consideration.
Neji stood to his feet and helped her up as well. "We must go or we'll be late for dinner."
"Neji?"
"Yes, Tenten?"
"What's tonight's dinner for? I mean, I wouldn't think I'd be invited unless something big is occurring, so what gives?" She was biting her lower lip, feelings of unease building.
"I'm uncertain. I haven't been able to ascertain my uncle's purpose." He placed a strong hand atop her shoulder. "It may not be anything, so don't worry yourself."
"Easier said than done, Hyuuga", she muttered lowly as she walked away. "See you shortly."
He frowned as she reverted to the usage of his last name. Usually she did that when annoyed or downright angry with him. Currently she seemed neither. So why had she done it? He shook his head, refusing to contemplate on the useless matter further when larger matters occupied his mind.
"Meet me at the front gates to the estate. Don't be late", he warned.
Neji stood there for several more moments, the wind gently stirring the strands of his long dark hair; his pale eyes still staring after his teammate and best friend.
Sometime later..........
Tenten stood in front of the massive Hyuuga estate, the wide iron doors closed for the moment. This place, these people intimidated her though she refused to show it. The place was so freaking huge! Its immense proportions overwhelmed her senses, making her feel tiny in comparison and very insignificant.
The churning in her stomach returned full force, nausea causing her to feel she'd vomit any moment now. Personally, she'd love to run away and go back home, where she felt safe, yet she wouldn't abandon Neji. Not now. She couldn't do that. Ever.
Feeling a familiar presence she knew it was too late. Turning around she glanced at her teammate standing behind her. It was definitely too late to run.
Turning, she took in his outfit, his face. He was gorgeous as always. His long dark hair flowing freely, pale eyes glinting with amusement, and the masculine lines of his face, incomparable in its male perfection, caused her heart to pound. Her breath caught in her throat, pulse still pounding away as she observed Neji's male perfection.
Neji was wearing his black and white formal dinner robes while she was dressed in a simple red kimono. Wow! She wasn't aware this dinner was that serious or she'd have worn something more appropriate. She growled mentally at him and the lack of information. Damn him, she thought, knowing once again her feelings for him outweighed common sense. They always would.
"It's time." He stated coolly. "Let's go."
"Still vocally challenged as ever", she murmured lowly, aggravated with his less than forthcoming answers and the way he practically ordered her around.
She took control of her breathing as she followed Neji into the main dining room, which was already filled with numerous Hyuuga family members. She exhaled, feeling a little relieved, and smiled as she spotted a few friends: Sakura, Ino, Sasuke, Shikamaru and, very unexpectedly, Naruto. What were they doing here?
Neji leaned close. "I didn't know they were invited." He stated with ease.
"But I didn't ask."
She ought to have known better. The Hyuuga knew her better than anyone else. He had to have anticipated her question. That was a prodigy for you.
At least having them here would lessen the tense atmosphere, yet taking another glance around the room, she noticed that Sakura appeared every inch as nervous as she felt; Sasuke's face was stony, angry. Something was up. Something that no one wanted to divulge, but what?
Everyone was seated and the magnificent supper began. After all courses had been served and dessert finished, Hiashi stood to his feet, calling his guests' attention, by tapping his fork lightly against his crystal wine glass.
A hush fell automatically over the group.
Tenten's suspicions grew as Sakura squirmed in her seat; even Neji was acting strange. He'd barely said a word throughout dinner, and now he'd retreated further into his cold, aloof shell. Hinata and Naruto glanced helplessly, first, at each other, and then their gazes touched upon hers. Just what was going on?
Forget awkward. The entire environment seemed so apprehensive. The weight of it so palpable Tenten felt she would choke. She could barely breathe.
Her eyes looked at Neji, who sat rigid and silent, then she glanced over to his uncle waiting to hear his announcement.
"Dear family and friends", he began, "I want to thank you all for coming tonight. A night of special celebration." His white eyes slid over to Neji and he smiled, "Neji, I am proud of the man you've become and all you've accomplished. Furthermore, with your latest achievement you've only increased my pride and happiness."
Just hurry up and get this over with, Tenten thought. 'The waiting is making me crazy'.
Lifting his champaign-filled flute, Hiashi smiled and said, "This dinner, tonight, is to celebrate an addition to our family; a different beginning in life. We are here to celebrate my nephew, Neji, and his engagement to Sakura Haruno."
Everyone lifted their glasses and toasted the couple, offering congratulations, most of them oblivious to two very miserable people sitting very still.
Naruto looked at Tenten's pale face, shock evident in her expression, hurt in her eyes. "Hinata, do you think she'll be alright?"
"In time," came her soft reply. "All we can do for now is be there for her, support her. She'll need it in the weeks to come."
Shikamaru was taken aback as all his friends. His girlfriend of two years was silent, her mind still grasping and attempting to process the information which had just been revealed. He leaned close to her, one arm around her shoulder. "Ino, you okay?"
Blue eyes wide in shock, she shook her head. "It's not possible," she whispered. "He was meant for her," she mumbled, shocked at the elder Hyuuga's statement.
"What?"
"Nothing, Shika."
The couple then looked over at Tenten, feeling her devastation; seeing the confirmation of Hiashi Hyuuga's words all over her visage. Ino was instantly worried for her friend. She was aware how long the weapon's mistress had loved the Hyuuga prodigy, and now her happiness had been snatched from her hands like candy from a small child.
Pain speared Tenten's heart causing more damage than an enemy's kunai ever could. He was engaged? How long had he known? More importantly, why hadn't he told her? This would explain his perplexing behavior as of recent. Her blood began to stir and boil. He'd known yet chose not to confide in her. Why? She'd believed they'd been the best of friends. Apparently not, as he'd viewed her as someone unfit to discuss this secret with.
Swallowing hard, forcing her tears back amidst the prickling at the back of her eyes, she spoke quietly, "Congratulations, Neji. May the two of you be happy," and as she finished speaking she choked on her words, "I wish you the best."
She rose from her seat.
"Tenten, wait." Neji went to grab her elbow but she jerked her arm out of reach.
Keeping her shoulders squared and head held high, refusing to let these Hyuuga jerks see her cry, she exited the room regally, like a queen.
As Tenten exited, she failed to see a pair of onyx orbs following her movements.
Outside the manor, Tenten finally allowed her tears to escape. No one was there to witness them, so why not? She was startled to hear another's voice.
"I'm here if you need an ear or a shoulder."
The voice low and husky caused her to spin in surprise. "Uchiha."
"I was the last time I checked," he replied casually, his tall, dark and lean form leaning against a post.
"You knew," she accused, tears falling freely down her stricken cheeks.
Standing up straight, he moved closer to her. "I did."
"Did no one have the balls to tell me? Or did they all just want to humiliate the hell out of me?" She cried out. "Isn't it enough that I'm a nobody, that I have no wealth, no family? Do they all lack for entertainment?"
Her eyes widened, tears still running unchecked and plopping onto the ground. "Aren't you all supposed to be my friends?" She questioned, her tone heavy with anguish.
"Sakura, Neji, Hinata, Naruto and I were the only ones to know", he answered. "What were we supposed to say, Tenten? None of us knew what to say? Besides, Hiashi ordered us to remain silent. Even Neji wasn't allowed to discuss it. He didn't really have a choice," Sasuke admitted.
"Bullshit," she snapped. "He always had a choice. I just wasn't involved like usual." Tenten's eyes narrowed. "Speaking of strangeness.....what's wrong with you?"
"Nothing's wrong, Ten."
"Come on, Sasuke. You're usually nonverbal to most people, socially inept with anyone who's not Sakura or Naruto, and the proverbial ice cube. So what gives? Why are you here with me? Did he send you?" She asked icily.
"No, he didn't send me. He doesn't know I'm, here, with you." His eyes stared intently at her, a hint of a smile on his lips. "I'm here because I want to be, and I knew you'd need someone to talk to, just like me." He threw his arms out wide and said, "Do you think I accept this easily?! She's my girlfriend! Now she's marrying another, and do you think that for one moment this is easy on me?"
Silence fell around them with the exception of the jovial sounds of the celebration emerging from within.
"I guess not, " she said quietly. "I'm sorry, Sasuke, it's just that you don't really talk that much, especially with me."
"I know. I'm still learning. If it wasn't for my teammates I'd still be a power-hungry ass searching on the wrong path of life."
He turned his eyes away, his passionate speech finished, and hugged her close, the awkwardness between them melting, feeling her tears wet his black button-up shirt. "Don't worry. We'll deal with this together, if that's agreeable to you." Black orbs questioned chocolate.
She nodded, giving her affirmation silently.
"Come on," he said huskily, "let me walk you home. This isn't the place for either of us to be tonight."
Tenten watched Sasuke through teary eyes. "Thanks, Sasuke."
"What for?"
"For being my friend. And thanks for tonight," she added with a slight quiver to her voice.
"My pleasure."
He held out his hand and hesitantly she took it. Then the pair began walking towards her house unaware of a pair of white eyes watching them, a furious glare to their pale depths.
A/N: I really didn't mean to make this so long, but it happened that way. Every chapter certainly won't be this long. Anyway, depending on you readers I may end up writing this as a triangular fic (Neji/Ten/Sas). I'll take suggestions on situations that you'd like to see them end up in, however, I have a couple....I don't really know how long this story will be but I don't want to drag it out for ages as I tend to lose interest in writing them if that happens.
Also here's a poll: do you guys want Sasuke or Neji to be Tenten's first lover:
A)Sasuke
B)Neji
So, if you guys would be so kid to review and tell me what you think. If no one tells me in a review that I will pick randomly.