Chapter 1: Memory

"I'm here because I want to be…I'm going to save you, Naruto-kun"

"I've always been crying, and giving up before trying. I've made the wrong turns so many times"

"But you helped me find my way and take the correct path, Naruto-kun."

"I've always chased after you…I've always wanted to catch up to you."

"I wanted to walk beside you all this time."

"I want to be by your side, always."

"You've changed me, Naruto-kun."

"Your smile is what saved me."

"That's why I'm not afraid to die, if it means I can protect you."

"Because…I love you, Naruto-kun…"

…

Naruto's eyes opened as he recalled the events of Konoha's destruction. Pain had destroyed the village in one swift motion, and even while in Sage Mode, Naruto himself, was still at a disadvantage. His body was pinned down to the ground. There was no way he could escape from the certain death that stood in front of him; even in the face of death, there was one person who stood beside him.

Hinata's words rewound themselves and continuously resonated in his heart.

"Because…I love you, Naruto-kun…"

He shoved his face deeper into his pillow and took a single, deep breath. He had never acknowledged her feelings, just as Sakura had never acknowledged his. His heart ached at the thought of how much pain he must have caused her for so long.

His mind began to wander as he came to a realization.

His heart had changed. He heard her voice again.

"I want to be by your side, always."

Closing his eyes, he took another deep breath.

"I want you at my side, Hinata."