A Birthday She'll Never Forget

Prelude

A sudden yet gentle breeze fell upon an otherwise deadly silent night. Except for soft whisper of the wind as it passed through the buildings of the village, there was no noise to be heard. The calm, dark night was ominous, but a single light coming from the highest window in the village gave everyone the sense of protection so they could rest easy in the endless darkness.

"Tsunade-sama, it seems very eerie out tonight. Are you afraid something may happen?" Shizune spoke quietly as to not aggravate the Hokage so late at night, but the urgent tone of her voice got the point across.

"Not especially. It'll be fine." Tsunade shifted underneath her covers and tried to stay awake. A night like this could only mean one thing, something she hadn't dealt with in years. Nevertheless, she had to assure Shizune that nothing was going to happen. Well, nothing that she should be worried about.

"If you say so, but I have a feeling something will happen…" Her voice trailed off as a sudden gust of wind pounded against the window. As if by instinct, she threw herself over Tsunade to protect the Hokage from any possible attack.

"It's alright, Shizune. You can get up now. It's fine." Tsunade gently pushed Shizune off her bed and sat up and looked out the window at the pitch-black night. "It's been a long time. It's been very peaceful since then, but it has been getting boring I suppose." She heard a laugh come from outside the window.

"I suppose you're being bitter-sweet about me coming back. You don't have to worry, I won't be long. It's hard enough getting free for 5 minutes, let alone a whole night. Not with that crazy man always breathing down my neck." Tsunade felt a genuine laugh for the first time in a while.

"Yes, he does have that trait. He is quite…aggressive, if I say so myself."

"Geeze, you've put it quite mildly. That man needs to find some girl so that I can have some peace." The two of them shared a quick laugh. "Oh, that reminds me why I came. I have a favor to ask of you, Hokage-sama."

Tsunade tilted her head back and sighed. "No, that title just doesn't seem right coming from you. Well, what was your request?" She felt a small letter land in her lap. It was quite rough around the edges, but it was to be expected, given where he had to have written it. "What do you want me to do with this?"

"I would like for you to give that to someone for me. And make it an A-rank mission. That way there's no chance that this person will turn it down." Tsunade smiled and looked out the window. She could barely see the silhouette of the ninja, but she knew who it was, and it made her happy to see him again.

"You've gotten stronger, haven't you?" She saw him nod, and smiled to herself again. "Very well, who is it that I have to give this letter to?" This time, it was him who smiled.

"Well…"

For the Reader

The brilliant yellow sun slowly rose over the horizon, casting its glow on the forest that hid the village of Konoha. As the sun began to rise higher, the village began to grow more and more lively. Shops began to open; wives started traversing the streets toward the market; children awoke from their slumber to play games of tag and hide and seek. This was a very proud village, and, as some would say, the most powerful village of the Five Great Nations. As if concealed by the thick branches of the oak and spruce trees surrounding the village, it was impossible to find unless you lived there, unless luck was on your side, that is. This village gave rise to many of the greatest ninja of the world.

This is where we shift our focus to one of the many ninja that called this village home. While she was not the strongest ninja, she belonged to the most powerful house in the village so everyone knew her upon sight. Everyone who noticed her passing couldn't help but notice her captivating beauty. Her long, purple hair fell down to the small of her back, and eyes of a light lavender color accented her beautiful features perfectly. Her goddess-like figure was hidden underneath a coat she always wore, no matter what season it was, but she still remained the most coveted girl for the growing shinobi in the village. Her name is Hinata Hyuuga. This day, she was on her way to see the Hokage, but this isn't where our story begins. Instead, let us go back to that certain night: the night where our story begins.

The Beginning

'This breeze feels nice…' I was dreaming. After a long day of training with Kiba and Shino, it was easy to sleep, but somehow the quiet and gentle wind woke me up. I looked out my window and saw it was still in the middle of the night. I noticed my curtains swaying gently with the wind. Then I noticed him. The shadowy silhouette was looking at me through a mask. I let out a shriek, and the man jumped away from the building. I looked at where he was standing, and saw a small parcel. I used my Byakkugan on it, looking for traps or explosives, and after seeing none, I picked it up and read what was on it. It was from the Hokage. Just then I heard footsteps running toward my room. Panicking, I hid the letter under my pillow, just in time to watch Neji-san and my father burst through my door.

"Hinata-san, what happened?" Both of them yelled at the same time. Neji's shirt was only half buttoned up and my father had his sword ready. I was surprised they had come so quickly.

"Um, g-gomen, N-Neji-san, father. I had a n-nightmare and it s-scared me awake." The seemed to relax quite a bit and sighed. My father left my room muttering something, while Neji-san looked at me and I felt a chill run through my spine. His gaze always did that to me.

"Try to be a little more courageous, Hinata-san. Your father and I won't always come running to your aid." It was weird to have Neji-san concerned about me, but ever since he lost his match with Naruto-kun, he seemed to be changing toward a more kind-hearted man.

"O-okay, N-Neji-san." I wished him goodnight and watched him close my door. To think that Naruto-kun had beaten Neji-san, who was thought to be the strongest ninja of our generation. And to think he had fought so hard for me. I could never thank him enough for that. But, Naruto-kun had been gone for almost three years now, and it hasn't been the same without him here. I missed him so much, but I couldn't do anything about it. He was supposed to be coming home soon though, and I hoped it was in time for my birthday, later this week.

As I laid my head back onto my pillow, I felt something stiff underneath it. Then I remembered the parcel that man left. He must have been from ANBU. If the Fifth sent this and used an ANBU member to carry it, it must be important. I slowly climbed out from under my sheets and got up to turn on a light so I could read the letter. The hard floor felt icy cold against my bare feet, so I hastened my step so I could get back under my covers. It was a chilly night for some reason, but autumn was looming at the end of summer.

As I broke the Hokage's seal on the back of the letter, I knew it was a special summoning. For what I didn't know, but I hoped it wouldn't be too bad. I read the bold, cursive stokes of the Fifth, and my eyes grew heavy as I read the message.

Hyuuga Hinata,

Your immediate attendance to the Hokage is now issued. You must arrive at 12 o'clock sharp the day after tomorrow in order to receive your mission briefing. We regret that this mission was issued so close to your birthday, but it is required that you depart as soon as possible.

We will see you then.

The Fifth Hokage

I sighed and felt the tears well up inside me. So much for hoping Naruto-kun would come before my birthday. Even if he did I wouldn't be able to see him. All I could do is wait. Well, I've waited for years already, so this shouldn't be so bad. As I laid my head back on my pillow, sleep didn't come as easily as it did at first, but soon I found myself dreaming of Naruto-kun.

The Mission

I stood in front of the Hokage's office. I had been constantly thinking of what my mission would be, and who my teammates would be. Shino was off training with his father, and Kiba was already off on another mission. Neji-san was too busy training with my father, and Lee and Ten-Ten were off with Gai-sensei. Everyone else was fair game though, but I was hoping it was Sakura-san because she might know about Naruto-kun's whereabouts. Taking a deep breath, I opened the door and saw the Fifth sitting in her chair. She looked up at me and smiled.

"Ah, Hinata. It's good to see that you made it." She smiled so carelessly, and I felt like begging her not to make me go, but I knew I couldn't' ask her that.

"You r-requested my presence today, H-Hokage-sama?"

"Yes, well, I have a special mission for you Hinata. I've noticed that you've had a slump in your participations in missions, and that made me pick this one out for you. And I'm sure you'll be glad to know it's an A-rank mission." I stared at the Hokage with a stunned look on my face. I knew it was a while since I had a mission, but an A-rank mission? I didn't know if I was ready for one of those yet.

"W-who are m-my teammates going to be?" I knew she wouldn't let me go on my own, and I had my fingers crossed that Sakura-san would be coming with me.

"You're not going to have any teammates, Hinata. This is a solo mission." I felt my heart drop in my chest. So this meant that I wouldn't be seeing Naruto-kun any time soon. I looked down at my feet as I listened to the rest of the mission. "There is no briefing, only this letter to tell you the specifics of the mission." I looked up and saw a small letter in her hand. I walked up to accept it, and she handed it to me with a smile. "I think you'll enjoy this mission Hinata. Where you are headed and everything is written there. It will take you about two days to get to your destination. Good luck!" Enjoy this mission? The only ones I enjoyed were the ones that had Naruto-kun involved. But if the Fifth says so, I'll try to enjoy it. I generously thanked her and walked out of her office. As I opened the letter, I noticed the crude handwriting, and I could barely read it.

Hyuuga Hinata,

This mission is required that you come as soon as possible, and that you come alone. Because of your Byakkugan, you'll see the signs I left for you to follow. Written on here are distances and directions between each sign. Don't worry about the rank of this mission; it's more of urgency than of difficulty. Nevertheless, get here as fast as you can, and make sure that you aren't followed. This mission's success depends on you arriving alone. Good luck!

It was an unsigned letter, but I couldn't turn it down. I decided to leave tomorrow after I packed for the long trip. So I was going to be gone for at least 4 days. That meant I'd miss my birthday. I trudged my way home and felt the tears well up inside me again. It's not like I've had a birthday that I enjoyed anyway, but I was hoping that Naruto-kun would be back for this one. It began to rain as I made my way into my house. The atmosphere fit my mood. I closed the door, and was off to prepare for the mission.

The Meeting

As I stepped out onto a clearing, I looked up and saw the moon was high overhead, partially blocked by a huge tree by the edge of a cliff. It had been two days since I left Konoha on my mission, and I had yet to see where I was supposed to go. The signs were easy to find with my Byakkugan, and it said the next one was around here. I decided to set up camp and finish getting to my destination tomorrow. I left in the middle of the night, so I had a few hours to spend. I decided to make a fire to keep warm, and there were plenty of branches around to start the fire, so I began gathering them in my arms.

"I see you made it, and rather quickly I might add." I shot straight up when I heard the voice. Out of instinct I used my Byakkugan and looked around, but I didn't see anyone.

"W-who's t-there!" My shaky voice wouldn't fool any opponent, but I shouldn't be worried. This was part of the mission after all. As I searched around more, the voice found me again.

"I'm over here Hinata-chan!" I turned back toward the gigantic tree and stared around. If it wasn't for my Byakkugan I wouldn't have been able to see a thing. But there, leaning against the base of the tree, was him. "It's been a long time, Hinata-chan." He smiled, and my knees went weak. As I collapsed from my surprise, I could only say his name before I fainted.

"N-Naruto-kun…"

I was lying in a field of flowers. My eyes were closed, feeling the gentle, warm breeze carry my hair away from my face. It was so wonderful, being in this dazed state. I never wanted to wake up and leave this place.

"Hinata-chan…" It was Naruto-kun's voice. That's right, Naruto-kun was calling me. I slowly opened my eyes. "Hey Hinata-chan, you're finally awake. Are you okay? You just suddenly collapsed." I was too shocked to speak. Naruto-kun was actually there. He had somehow grown very handsome. He still had a child-like smile, but his face had matured. His jacket had changed too. It looked more grown up, but it was still like his old jacket, only with a black stripe instead of blue. Somehow, he reminded me of someone other than him. It was then I noticed he was holding me in his arms. I practically jumped out of my body as I scrambled away from him.

"G-gomen N-Naruto-kun." I bowed my head in an attempt for him not to see my blushing. I looked up to see him still concerned about me. "W-why are you here N-Naruto-kun?" That seemed to cheer him up because he smiled.

"Isn't it obvious Hinata-chan? I'm the one who gave that mission to Tsunade-sama and asked her to give it to you." It was then it hit me. Naruto-kun had been calling me Hinata-chan. He only did that with Sakura-san.

"N-Naruto-kun?" He perked his head up and I could tell he was listening to me. "W-why did you call me Hinata-chan?" It seemed he didn't get the question, so I elaborated. "Y-you used to only c-call me Hinata, so why the c-change?"

"Oh, that. Well, I guess I just got used to referring to you as Hinata-chan while I was away training. I'll stop if it's bothering you."

"G-gomen! I actually like it, N-Naruto-kun." I blushed harder than I ever have in my life. "I was just w-wondering." Naruto-kun smiled and gestured to the spot next to him.

"Come sit by me, Hinata-chan. I don't bite." He smiled and I blushed even redder as I sat next to him, staring at my feet. "Anyway, back to why I wanted you to come here." That's right, Naruto-kun sent for me. What did he want?

"N-Naruto-kun? W-why did you request just m-me for this mission?" He grinned even broader and put his arm around me. I thought I was going to faint again.

"Because Hinata-chan, this is something I wanted to share with just you." Just with me? What did Naruto-kun want? Then I felt him press his finger against my lips. I almost shrieked, but I saw him gesturing upwards. It was then I saw the most amazing sight in my life. Against the night sky were waves of light shining brighter than any star. From the greens to the reds to the blues, it looked like a rainbow I could reach out and touch. It was so wonderful I forgot about all my nervousness and was just awe-struck with the beauty. "What do you think of it Hinata-chan?" I looked down at him, and back to the lights. I was speechless. Did Naruto-kun want to star gaze with me?

"It's amazing…" I smiled at him. Somehow, my smile made him look happier. He had gotten so handsome in the time he was gone. Most of our friends wouldn't recognize him at first glance anymore. "N-Naruto-kun? Is there anything else you wanted me here for? I-it couldn't be just because you w-wanted to show me the stars." It was then Naruto kind of looked away, and a sad look appeared in his eyes.

"Hinata-chan, you're good at keeping secrets, right?" I simply nodded. What did he want to tell me? "Well, do you know why everyone in the village hates me?" I had known that not very many people liked Naruto-kun, but I never really knew why. Did he know something about it? "Well, I want to tell you, but you have to promise me that you won't tell anyone. Very few people know about it, and I want to keep it that way." I was shocked. What could it be that makes everyone hate Naruto-kun so much?

"Okay, N-Naruto-kun. I promise." He breathed a sigh of relief and smiled. I felt happier seeing that.

"Okay, well, there are two reasons why everyone hates me, Hinata-chan. Okay, the first reason, everyone but our friends knows about it. Well, except for Sakura-chan, she knows about it now since I had to tell her during a mission. Anyway, the reason everyone hates me is because of a seal, similar to Neji's." I think he noticed the confused look on my face. A seal like Neji's? Why would Naruto-kun have such a thing? It was then I noticed Naruto-kun had taken off his jacket revealing his bare chest.

"N-Naruto-kun!" I closed my eyes and turned away quickly. Why did he take his shirt off? What was he doing?

"It's okay Hinata-chan, I want you to see this." I slowly turned around and opened my eyes. Nothing I had seen before prepared me for what I saw. There, on Naruto-kun's stomach, was a seal. What was it for? "This…is the seal that keeps the Kyuubi inside me." It was then I fainted…

In Naruto's Memories

"Hey, Naruto! Come over here!" Jeriya was sitting near the hot spring watching Naruto perform his jutsu on the water.

"What is it, ero-senin?" Naruto collapsed next to his sensei gasping for breath. He had been training non-stop since he woke up that morning.

"I told you to stop calling me that you dumbass. Anyway, I have a question for you. Have you told anyone about the Kyuubi inside you?" Naruto jerked up and stared at his teacher.

"I haven't told any of my friends, if that's what you mean. Only the people who were alive during the attack know about it. Actually, I guess Sakura-chan knows about it too. Why do you ask?" Jeriya smirked and put his hand on his pupil's head.

"It's surprising that you held in such a secret for so long, Naruto. But you know you have to tell your friends sometime. You can't hide it forever." Naruto looked away with a sad look in his face. "Are you afraid they won't like you anymore?"

"…yeah. I finally got people to like me, and I couldn't bear it if I lost them. I want things to stay the way they are." Jeriya slapped Naruto's back.

"Well, that's why you should tell at least one person. Think of someone who you would trust to keep such a secret."

"Someone who can keep a secret? Well, someone like Shino would be able to. He never talks anyway." Naruto laughed, but Jeriya put his hand on his head.

"That's no good Naruto. You need to tell someone who would keep the secret because he wants to, not because he doesn't talk. Think of someone who would be happy that you trusted him with such a secret."

"Is there really such a person I know?" Jeriya smiled at his pupil.

"I can think of someone. While she isn't the most wide spoken girl, she does seem to like you quite a bit. She would be very happy if you told her."

"Really? Who is it?" Naruto practically knocked his teacher into the hot spring.

"That…will be part of your training, Naruto. Now, I need to go finish my book." With that, Jeriya left his pupil to think about what he was supposed to do.

"Stupid ero-senin. Who could it be?…" Naruto gazed up into the sky and watched the clouds gently float by.

The Confession

"Hinata-chan, wake up…" I felt Naruto-kun gently calling my name. Why didn't anyone tell me that he had a demon inside him? Why didn't any of us know about something so important? It couldn't be true. But, what if it was? Even if it was true, Naruto-kun hasn't changed. He's still the same boy that I admire. I slowly opened my eyes. "You're awake. I'm glad, Hinata-chan." Naruto-kun was smiling. He was always smiling. He wasn't a demon, he couldn't be. I felt the warmth of his chest against my cheek. I felt like I could stay like this forever.

I shrieked so loud that every living creature within miles had gotten quiet. I could feel my face glowing red. "G-gomen, N-Naruto-kun." I stared at my feet, and I knew I had the goofiest smile on my face. Why couldn't I be happy Naruto-kun was holding me like that? His body was so warm and I felt so peaceful when he held me. I almost wanted to crawl back and climb into his arms again.

"It's okay, Hinata-chan. I put my jacket back on." Naruto-kun was giggling to himself. "Sorry about that, Hinata-chan. I forgot that you get that uneasy around me." I turned to face him, and I smiled back at him. "So…you're not scared of me, Hinata-chan?"

"W-why should I be, N-Naruto-kun? Even if you have a demon inside you, you're still Naruto-kun. And to me, that's all that matters." With that, I felt Naruto-kun wrap his arms around me.

"Really, Hinata-chan? I'm so glad!" When he pulled back I saw him crying. It was rare to see Naruto-kun truly happy like this. Somehow, I felt a courage rising up in me. "I knew I could trust you Hinata-chan." He hugged me again. While it felt so wonderful to have him so close, I felt as though I was going to pass out if he continued.

"N-Naruto-kun, wasn't there another thing you wanted to tell me?" I was relieved, yet disappointed when he stopped hugging me. Yet he was still smiling, so it had to be something of good news.

"Okay! Reason number two of why most everyone in Konoha hates me. Although, unlike reason number one, this is something they hate me for because they don't know about it. I have a father, and everyone knows of him, but very few know he's my father." I felt my jaw drop. Naruto-kun had a father? I thought he was an orphan. Who was his father? "Although, my father died shortly after I was born, but no one would treat me so bad if they knew who he was."

"N-Naruto-kun, he sounds like an amazing person."

"Amazing! Hinata-chan, you're selling my father short!" Naruto-kun's father was more than amazing? Who could it have been? "Okay, now this is a bigger secret than the demon inside me. Only three people know of it: Tsunade-sama, Jeriya-san, and Kakashi-sensei. Now, you'll be the only friend I have that knows. My father is none other than the Fourth Hokage himself!" It was then that I realized why Naruto looked so familiar. He looked almost exactly like the stone carving of the Fourth in the village. Was Naruto-kun's father really the Fourth! But, why would the Kyuubi, the demon that the Fourth fought himself, be sealed inside his own son?

"Naruto-kun, is that really the truth? Is your father really the Fourth?" Naruto-kun seemed to be hurt that I didn't believe him, but who could about such a tale? No one even knew if the Fourth had a son.

"What? Hinata-chan, I wouldn't lie about something like that." He smiled all of the sudden. "I'm glad that you and I have something in common though. We're both heirs to two of the biggest houses in all of Konoha!" It was then it hit me. Naruto-kun was right! Suddenly a happiness burst inside of me and I leapt at Naruto-kun and hugged him as tight as I could.

"Naruto-kun! I'm so happy! This means that it isn't impossible!" Suddenly I realized what I was doing and I pushed myself away from him. "G-gomen, Naruto-kun."

"What do you mean, it isn't impossible?" I blushed a deeper shade of red than I ever have before. I had come so close to telling him that I loved him. But I couldn't help but smile. I was so happy. Naruto-kun wasn't some no name anymore. Naruto-kun was now heir to a house bigger than that of the Hyuugas. Father and Neji-san wouldn't tell me to reject a proposal from such a high member in our society. "Oh, Hinata-chan, you can't tell anyone about this." Then I felt my dreams crashing down.

"Why, Naruto-kun? If everyone knew, they wouldn't treat you so bad anymore! They'd see what an amazing, kind, wonderful person you are! They'd notice how strong you are and you wouldn't be treated like dirt! Why don't you want that?" I felt his finger press against my lips.

"That's the whole reason, Hinata-chan. I don't want people to like me because of who my father was. I want to earn their respect. They'll know someday, after I become Hokage." And with that, he smiled. I remembered why I admired him so much. He was unlike anyone who would give anything to become famous on name alone. He wanted to earn it.

"Naruto-kun…" I hugged him without thinking. It seemed to surprise him, and it surprised me. But for once, I felt like it was okay. It was possible that I could be with him now. It wasn't a fleeting dream of my childhood anymore. I was truly happy for the first time of my life.

"It really is beautiful." My eyes shot open when he said that. I looked up at him, and saw him looking at the lights from before. I was disappointed that he wasn't holding me, but it was so nice sitting there with him.

"Mhm, it is." I saw him lean his back against the tree. I never wanted this night to end. I knew that if he wanted me, Naruto-kun and I could live a life together. All I had to do was tell him that I liked him. But, how would I bring it up?

"Hinata-chan, do you like somebody?" I was shocked by his abruptness. Was he thinking the same thing I was? What should I say? Should I tell him that I liked him? Should I lie and say I don't like anybody? "Y-yes, I like s-someone." I noticed him flinch a little, like the words hurt him. Did Naruto-kun somehow like me? What if he didn't? What should I do? I have to get his mind off of it. "N-Naruto-kun, g-gomen." I felt tears forming in my eyes. I felt so terrible for hurting Naruto-kun's feelings. "D-do you like anyone, N-Naruto-kun?"

"I…don't know…" His voice trailed off. I was hoping I could do something to cheer him up. "For the longest time, I thought it was Sakura-chan that I wanted to be with, but I couldn't take her eyes off Sauske. After that, I gave up on her, and wanted her to be with Sauske. Above all, I wanted her happy, because she's my friend."

"Naruto-kun…" He was so generous with everyone. He was so kind. I had to tell him how I felt about him.

"Which is why I want to know who you like, Hinata-chan. I want to help you too, since you're my friend as well." Even behind his smile, I could see it pained Naruto-kun. Did he like me? "That's why I promise I'll help you Hinata-chan. If there's anything I can do, just ask. Even if it pains me, I'll do whatever I have to do to make you happy."

"Why would helping me be with the one I like pain you, Naruto-kun?" I hoped it was because he liked me. I had prayed every second I was alive that he would.

"Because, Hinata-chan, you're the one that I like now. After spending so much time away from Konoha and all our friends, you're the one I missed the most. I missed how you were always watching me, always acknowledging my existence. You were the one who noticed me the most, and that's why I wanted to see you Hinata-chan. I like you Hinata-chan." I was shocked. Naruto-kun felt the same way about me? I had to do something. It was now or never. "Hinata-chan?" It was time for me to change who I was.

It was then I said goodbye to the old me. As I pressed my lips against Naruto-kun's, I felt our bodies fall toward the ground, and as I landed on top of him, I held him so tight that it felt like my arms were stuck to his body. I wished they could stay like that, so I would never have to leave his side again. Slowly, I pulled away from my first kiss, the one I had waited to share with Naruto-kun again, and now that I had my dream come true, I could smile for him, always.

"Gomen, Naruto-kun." Feeling my face burning hotter than the sun, I was surprised that I didn't faint for once when I was embarrassed in front of Naruto-kun. Maybe it was because I had confidence in myself for once, or it might have been because I was smiling at how Naruto-kun looked so shocked. I pushed myself up to look into his eyes, those deep blue eyes that I always wished were watching me. For once, he was oblivious of everything but me, and I finally had the courage to take advantage of the opportunity.

"Naruto-kun, you're the one I like. Ever since our days in the academy, I've watched you. I've always been amazed at your courage, your determination, and especially how no matter what happened, you always smiled and went on with your life. I always wanted to tell you, I wanted to show you that I liked you, but I was always afraid. You were always with Sakura-san and chasing after her, and I was scared that I couldn't get your eyes off of her. I was scared that you would reject me, and I couldn't live with that. So I hid and watched you from afar, hoping one day I could tell you. Hoping one day your eyes would see me."

"Hinata-chan…" I kissed Naruto-kun's lips a second time. I held myself against him tighter taking in the moment, and I felt his arms wrap around me. As I pulled away, I opened my eyes. I was crying, and tears were falling off my chin in a steady stream that soaked Naruto-kun's jacket. But I wasn't concentrating on that; instead, I saw it in his eyes. He wasn't shocked anymore. His calm, blue eyes were full of compassion.

"I'm so happy, Naruto-kun." The tears kept falling freely. I had never been this happy. "I finally got to tell you how I feel. I got to share my first kiss with you, and I got to hold you without fearing if you didn't want me to. And to know that you feel the same about me. I love you so much, Naruto-kun!" I kissed him again, and I felt like the luckiest girl in the world. I never knew anyone could be this happy, even if it was my birthday. Naruto-kun came back just for me, and he really liked me. I was never going to let him go.

"Gomen, Hinata-chan." I felt Naruto-kun gently push me off of him and we both sat up. I stared into his eyes questioningly, and I saw that he was crying. At first I thought he was as happy as I was, but I knew he wasn't smiling. What was going on? Why wasn't Naruto-kun happy?

"What's wrong, Naruto-kun? Did I do something wrong?…"

"Baka!" I jumped at the word. What did he mean by that? I felt Naruto-kun hold me in his arms, hugging me tightly. "I'm such an idiot, Hinata-chan. I put you through hell, didn't I? Why am I always so stupid that I can't notice how others feel? If I would have noticed this earlier, you would have been happier growing up. But instead I was an idiot who couldn't notice that someone liked me. I'm so sorry, Hinata-chan…"

"Naruto-kun…" I held him in my arms and kissed his cheek. "It's okay, Naruto-kun. It's not your fault that you didn't notice how I felt. I mean, you grew up where most everyone hated you. You never had a mother or father, and you didn't have any friends until you graduated the academy, so it's ok that you didn't know that I liked you. Besides, if I had told you that I liked you earlier, your childhood would have been much happier." I pulled back from him, looked in his eyes, and smiled. "So it's okay, right?"

"Hinata-chan…" Naruto-kun kissed me. "You are by far the strongest person I have ever known." I stared up at him in awe. Did Naruto-kun really think I was that strong? He had to be exaggerating. I'm not as strong as he is, nor am I anywhere near second best. If it weren't for my Hyuuga name, I wouldn't be anything special at all in the village.

"Naruto-kun, do you really mean that?" I hugged myself tighter to him. Did Naruto-kun really acknowledge me? Did he really think I was strong?

"Of course you're strong Hinata-chan! I'm amazed that you've liked me for so long. I mean, as soon as I decided it was impossible to be with Sakura-chan, I stopped trying to make her fall for me. But you, even though you thought it was impossible since the beginning, you always cared about me. You never gave up on the hope that someday, somehow, we'd be together. That alone proves you have more strength than I could ever muster."

"Naruto-kun…" He really did think I was strong. He really did notice me. I felt my joy bursting out of me. I held him close to me, and I felt him embrace me as well.

"I promise you Hinata-chan, I will never hurt you again. I'll always be there for you, from now until the day we die. You'll always have me Hinata-chan, and I promise that I'll make you happy."

"It's okay, Naruto-kun. I don't have to worry anymore, now that I know you're the Fourth's son." I rested my head against his shoulder and closed my eyes. It was so peaceful there with him, knowing that he loved me.

"Why is that, Hinata-chan?" I looked up at Naruto-kun and smiled. I kissed him gently and wrapped my arms around him.

"Because, silly. Since I'm a Hyuuga, and an heiress at that, I couldn't be with someone that wasn't of a high social status. But, because you're the Fourth's son, you're of a house higher than the Hyuugas, so my father and Neji-san would be very accepting of our relationship. That's why I was so happy to find out about that, Naruto-kun. I was happy that I could actually be with you."

"But that means, I can't be with you until I become Hokage." I looked up at him questioningly, but he smiled and kisses my forehead. "Because no one could know about my heritage, your father won't know of my bloodline until I become Hokage." I realized what he meant by that.

"Well, I suppose it's ok then. I have waited for you for years, so I guess waiting a little longer won't be too hard." I saw it pain Naruto-kun that I had to wait longer. "But, it is nice knowing that I will be with you eventually." As I smiled up at him, I saw him smile back.

"Hinata-chan, I have something for you." I saw him reach into his bag and pull out a little parcel. "It is your birthday, right?" Naruto-kun remembered my birthday! I felt like kissing him, and then I realized that he beat me to it. As the package landed in my lap, he smiled and said, "Happy birthday, Hinata-chan!"

I slowly peeled back the crude wrapping to Naruto-kun's gift. Upon opening it, I held a small pair of rings. One had a beautiful jewel at the center, and the other surprised me just as much, if not more than the first ring. On it, I saw the seal of the Fourth Hokage.

"Naruto-kun…" He seemed happy about the speechlessness I had.

"Well, that first ring with the jewel will make you happy. It's a special jewel, because it has been infused with my chakra while I was away. Since I have to go back to my training tomorrow, and we'll be apart on lots of missions, this ring will come in handy. As long as you wear that ring, all you have to do is let a little bit of your chakra enter it and you'll be able to sense my feelings and know what direction I am in. You'll always know if I'm alright or not." That alone made me hug Naruto-kun and thank him a thousand times.

"And the other one, is proof that I am the son of the Fourth Hokage. If you have to tell anyone, then you can only tell your father and Neji so they know I'm not some street rat." With that, I kissed him. My father and Neji-san would finally recognize me. Not only was I with the one man I loved, but he was someone my family would accept and want me to be with.

"Thank you so much, Naruto-kun. This has been the best birthday I could have ever asked for." I held him in my arms and closed my eyes. If only we could stay like this forever.

"Gomen, Hinata-chan, but I need to take my leave now." Those words made me realize that time was still flowing. The sun was beginning to shine over the horizon, and morning was drawing near. It couldn't be. Not yet. I couldn't let him leave. As he started to get up, I held him back down.

"No, not yet Naruto-kun. I've missed you so much over the last few years. Please, just stay with me a little longer." I kissed him and looked at him with the saddest look I could muster.

"Alright, Hinata-chan. I suppose I could grant you this wish on your birthday." He kissed me and laid back down. We stayed like that and welcomed the day, together.

Mission Complete

"So, Hinata, was the mission successful?" Tsunade saw the rings, which I had placed on my left ring finger so no one would miss them, but I suppose she had to ask anyway.

"It was a complete success, Hokage-sama. Thank you so much for sending me on the mission." Tsunade laughed and looked me in the eyes.

"That boy really can work miracles. This is the first time I've heard you talk without stuttering." It wasn't until she said something that I noticed. I hadn't stuttered at all since that night. Did Naruto-kun do that for me? He really was amazing.

"I suppose you know about who Naruto is now, don't you?" I simply nodded. "Yes, well, you also realize that you can't tell anyone about it, except for your father and Neji, I suppose, but only if they pressure you into the discussion of marriage."

"Yes, Hokage-sama." She smiled and turned her back to me.

"I wonder what will happen when that boy returns."

"Excuse my abruptness, Hokage-sama, but Naruto-kun isn't a boy anymore." Somehow, I had the courage to stand up for Naruto-kun now. Even against the Fifth, I felt strength inside of me. "Naruto-kun has grown up. He's a stronger man than my cousin, and possibly my father as well." I watched as the Fifth laughed and looked out her window.

"I suppose you're right, Hinata. He is that man's son, after all. Well, congratulations on a successful mission Hinata. You're dismissed." With that, I bowed to her and quickly left her office.

What! Hinata's Getting Married?

"Hinata-san, what is that?" Neji-san's voice didn't grab my attention at first. I was too busy trying to sort out my thoughts over what happened. Not until he put his hand on my shoulder did I notice him.

"Neji-san. Gomen. I was daydreaming." Neji-san smiled and sat next to me. I remember when he never smiled, but now it was a common occurrence when he wasn't training.

"What's that ring on your finger?" He pointed toward the rings on my finger that Naruto-kun gave me. Naruto-kun and the Fifth both gave me permission to tell Neji-san about it, but I wanted to torture him a bit. It wasn't often I had something over him.

"Oh, this? It's very special to me." I held it out for him to see it better, and I smiled. "I guess you could call it an engagement ring." Seeing his draw drop like that was indeed a rare sight. It was all I could do to hold in my laughter.

"Hinata-san! You're getting married?" Before I could say anything, I noticed my father leap out of the second floor window and land in front of Neji-san and me. He stared at me with a gaping mouth and a surprisingly happy look in his eyes.

"Hinata! Is it true!" My father's voice was comforting for once. It was one of the few times he had ever acknowledged me. I could live like this, I was sure of it.

"Yes, father, Neji-san. It won't be for a few years, but I am engaged." My father walked up to me to see my ring. While Neji-san didn't notice the symbol, my father immediately dropped his sword and looked as if he couldn't believe what his eyes saw. I could have sworn he even used his Byakkugan on it. I gently giggled to myself over all the attention I had garnered.

"T-this is the seal of the Forth Hokage!" At once Neji-san leapt up and stared at my ring again. "Hinata, how did this happen? The Fourth had no descendants! How did you get this ring!" I only smiled and wrapped my arms around my knees.

"The Fourth had a son, but the village never knew about it. Go ask Hokage-sama if you don't believe me." In their shocked state, I could notice they were wondering if they really should go ask her about it. "So, are you two happy?" Almost at once, they both replied.

"Hinata, of course we're happy! Not only are you getting married, but to the descendant of the most powerful house in Konoha! We couldn't think of anyone we'd want you to be with more." With that, I was truly indebted to Naruto-kun. My family finally acknowledged me. "So, Hinata, who is it? Who is your fiancée? Do we know him?" I simply tapped both of them on the head.

"Well, to tell you the truth, it's a secret." Laughing at their confused faces, I turned around and ran back into the house. It was only three more months until Naruto-kun returned, and I was waiting to show everyone how amazing he truly is.