xnejix

Well. Now what...

Mon, 23 Jan 2006 19:37:11 GMT

I'm going out of my mind. When have I lost so much control over myself? I feel like such a horrible person. She hasn't been herself.

I think I'm going to drink something highly strong tonight. Screw my work.

Europe...

I think something is wrong with me. Maybe I'm crashing under all this stress and worry.

"Stress: The confusion created when one's mind overrides the body's basic desire to choke the living daylights out of some jerk who desperately deserves it." -Unknown

Mon, 16 Jan 2006 03:10:10 GMT

Neji walked quietly to the counter, ordering his normal cappuccino latte, and moved to sit down at his own table. Tucking a loose piece of hair behind his ear, he opened his book and began to read. He really needed to calm down. It didn't help that Hinata had been very distant lately. His shoulders were tense, and his eyes looked tired. He thought some coffee would do him good.

The dog boy raised an eyebrow and cleared his throat. "Why don't you come sit over here, it's been a while since we've talked."

At the sound of the voice, Neji looked over. "...ok. Kiba-kun. I didn't see you. Forgive me." He moved to sit at Kiba's table and looked at him. "...How have you been?"

A casual toss of his shoulder. "Could be better. Yourself?"

"I'm very busy. Work and school." He replied, taking a sip of his drink. "Exhausted, I guess you could sum it up as."

"I can tell, you look like shit." Kiba was as blunt as ever.

He sighed. "Do I? ...I guess that can be blamed on many things. Hinata-sama has me worried, but I guess Hinata-sama doesn't concern you anymore, hmm?" He settled his gaze on Kiba with slightly narrowed eyes, letting his exhaustion get the better part of his words.

He looked down. "I've done all I can for her. I know this hurts her but I want her to learn to stand on her own two feet."

"I'm there to comfort her when she needs it but I know she's strong. She just has to see that in herself. I can't show her." Another shrug, he sips his coffee.

"You seem to have mistaken a few things too, Kiba-kun. She's changed a lot while you were away. Have you spoken to her? She's already been in and out of a relationship with Shino-san and now has her eyes set on Naruto-kun. But as you know, Naruto-kun is already involved. She is very capable of standing on her own feet." He said simply.

"Yes, I'm well aware. I just like to generally stay out of things involving Naruto."

Neji nodded. "Do as you wish. It's your choice to deal with Naruto-kun and no concern of mine." He turned to his book, opening it to read. "I'm not talking about Naruto-kun though."

"I know. I still have a few problems of my own. It'll be a while before I help anyone with theirs. I do talk to her though."

"How like you." Neji said almost coldly, turning his page.

"If I can't even help myself how the hell do you expect me to help others?" Kiba felt a little threatened.

"Yes. That is true. There is two ways of looking at it." He sighed.

"I just need to figure a few things out before I can comfortably give others advice. I wouldn't want to fuck everything up again." Kiba had sat down his book and was now chewing on the straw to his drink.

"I did not know you gave out advice. You talk as if you do all the time?" He asked, a little curious now. "Last time Hinata-sama told me you talked to her about some rather different topics."

"I try to fix things but lately it doesn't work out. Not all bad though. I might be learning."

He nodded. "I see. Be careful then."

"I know the pain of being alone. If people have the potential to be together I try to help them out as much as I can. It doesn't always work though. Sometimes people just don't get along." Chewing on the straw again.

Neji listened, watching him carefully. "...Hmm. I believe I understand how you feel." He huffed and looked back down on at his book. "Do not always try and help people," He added quickly, "It wares at the soul."

"I just don't want anyone to go through this is all." His eyes showed a hidden pain. "When you have the option to be happy."

"You cannot achieve happiness without knowing pain." He said slowly, "It's a path that everyone must run. Do not worry yourself over it." Neji sighed again.

"Sure..." Neji was right of course. He was always right.

Neji sipped at his coffee and said nothing to continue the conversation. He wasn't much of the type to keep a conversation going anyway. He rubbed at his tense shoulder.

Kiba watched the young man rub his shoulder. "I could fix that you know" He waves his hand at Neji's shoulder. "My sister is a master as massage therapy. She taught me some.

Neji shook his head curtly. "That is a good thing to know, but I'm alright. Thank you."

"Don't be stubborn, it'll help your nerves a little bit."

"What do you know about my nerves right now?" He huffed in his exhaustion, giving Kiba a side glance. In truth, he'd been a tired mess. With Hinata coming home so late every night and acting so oddly. Including Tenten becoming overly worried about Hinata.

"Neji. You're so tense I can see the veins in your neck."

Neji rubbed his temple. "I'm quite alright. Don't bother."

"You'll survive." Kiba got up and walked over to him, placing his hands on the young man's shoulders and rubbing his thumbs in firm smooth circles.

Neji let out a irritated sigh and shrugged Kiba's hands away. "Please, Kiba-kun, do not bother with me. I may seem exhausted, but I will deal with it."

"Christ, how do you move??" Kiba wouldn't be denied and set about Neji's neck and shoulders. "You sit still until I get these knots out. If you cause yourself serious internal damage I will kick your ass."

"Kiba-kun, please!" Neji said with his annoyance showing in his voice.

Kiba reached around and grabbed Neji's chin, turning him to face him and moving his face very close to the Hyuuga's.

Neji narrowed his eyes into a glare. "Yes?" He was about ready to stand and leave. He didn't back down from Kiba even if he was staring into his face.

"I know you don't like depending on others but I think strained muscles could seriously get in the way of your training time. Now fucken sit still or I'll make you." He turned the boy's head sharply and heard the snap of joints popping into a more relaxed state.

When his neck was snapped, letting loose a pain he had long ignored, he let out a irritated yelp and glared at Kiba. When he noticed the pain has vanished he let out a irritated sigh and nodded his head. "...I admit, you are good at that." He tilted his head to the side and back, happy that the pain was gone when he moved.

"That's right, now just sit still for a bit and I'll make you feel really good."

Loosing count of the times he had sighed, he sighed once more and let his shoulders sag. "...Fine." He muttered. "I guess I need it."

Kiba started into work intently, pressing the pads of his thumbs against Neji's tense muscles. Stroking and rubbing...

Neji let out a half groan. His muscle screamed as it was pressed hard but the slight pain felt good. At first he couldn't understand himself why he would let Kiba touch him, but then feeling the muscles being pressed let some of his stress slip away. Maybe he'd indulge in this a little longer. He quietly groaned again.

Kiba heard Neji's small groans and tried desperately to stop out the small excited feeling inside of him. Neji was trusting him here and he hardly trusted anyone. 'Keep it in your pants, Inuzuka.'

Neji had to let out another groan as Kiba pressed a particularly hard muscle. He arched his back, his hair falling over his shoulder, brushing against Kiba's hands. He didn't notice until now how tense his back and shoulders really were.

Kiba paused for a moment and collected himself.

Neji looked over his shoulder when Kiba paused. "Kiba-kun?" But then shrugged, fine if Kiba was done. "Thank you."

"Ah, no there's still some left." To be quite honest Kiba was freaking out a little inside.

Neji nodded and allowed Kiba to continue. He must have been very tired to allow Kiba to massage him. He usually only let Hinata or Tenten do things like this for him. I must get more sleep...

Kiba was rubbing more gently now that the hard kinks were taken care of. He slid his hands soothingly over the Hyuuga's shoulders and back.

Letting out a soft groan, Neji allowed himself to shut his eyes and sighed. But this sigh was in contentment. It was nice to get rid of so much stress from a simple back massage. Without knowing what he was doing, Neji fell into a very light sleep.

Kiba felt the man relax. 'Finally...' But it was too relaxed for Neji he noticed. 'Is he... No way.' The Hyuuga was asleep. In the middle of a cafe. And his soft cheek was RUBBING AGAINST HIS HAND.

Neji stayed in his small sleep. He didn't mean to fall into such a sudden cat nap. Maybe it was his exhaustion...

Kiba thought of a funny way to get the Hyuuga's attention. If this didn't get him punched he'd laugh about it for days. He leaned in next to Neji's ear and whispered hotly. "You make me wanna let you insert it."

At the voice in his ear, Neji easily woke up with a wave of panic going through him. "Excuse me?" Neji said, his voice cracking just slightly. He quickly composed himself and smooth his hair, while scooting away. "I- I apologize for falling asleep, Kiba-kun. I must have been much more tired then I thought I was. ...Thank you for the massage." He had to fight to keep his embarrassing blush from growing. How inappropriate all that was now that he looked back at his decisions.

Kiba nodded. "It's fine." He returned to his seat and resumed reading.

Neji sat, looking at the table top in silence. Had he heard correctly? In his half asleep moment, he swore he heard... No- it couldn't have heard something that ridiculous. He took his coffee, drinking down a large amount of it and stood. "I appreciate it, Kiba-kun. I must be going now." He stood to leave.

Kiba blinked and stared at the Hyuuga. Since when did Neji start wearing leather?

Neji returned his books to his bag and slung it easily over his shoulder. "Come over sometime to talk with Hinata-sama if you can." He indirectly asked, and left out the door without waiting for an answer.

Mon, 09 Jan 2006 17:45:55 GMT

It seems like I got lost in my writing again. ~~I really need to stop doing this to myself.~~ The last few weeks have been very busy for me. I got a letter in the mail from Europe. A university there wants to enroll me for classes because they’ve seen some of my work. I’m seriously thinking about it, but I’m not all that sure I wish to do it. There are so many possibilities there. I have to seriously consider all this for I do not want to miss going to University next year here in Konoha. But that school…

Not much of a happy New Year. I stayed home. I didn’t go to the New Years party either, since I didn’t find the need. But now that I have heard of some of the happenings at the party I regret not going. I’m just glad both Tenten-chan and Hinata-sama got home safe. ~~And trust me, there are a few people I wish to hurt.~~

Tenten-chan has moved in, as I’m sure she has told you. It’s nice having both of the girls here. It’s refreshing, and it’s much better then being alone, even if I do lock myself away from time to time.

~~Where the hell are Shino and Lee?~~

Oh yes, and I have heard that Kiba-kun has come back? Welcome home.

"In the spider-web of facts, many a truth is strangled." -Paul Eldridge

Home

Sat, 31 Dec 2005 01:17:38 GMT

I'm a little late with saying that I am home, but I am.

Yes, while I was away I high-jacked a Tenten. It was quite a nice trip.

Happy belated birthday Hinata-sama. Please forgive me for not wishing you this sooner.

Tue, 27 Dec 2005 07:35:58 GMT

I've gone to China on a emergency trip. Will be back soon. Gomen.

Private to Hinata:
Tenten needs me help. Her father wants her to do something against her wishes. You and I both know what it is like to be in a situation on wanting to be free of old tradition. I shall be back with Tenten-chan. Forgive me.

Sat, 17 Dec 2005 16:10:35 GMT

I'm on the verge of this. I'm almost at the edge I can feel it.

I've not been happy the a lot of the results of the last few days. But oddly, I've been feeling a little left behind. Brought flowers to Hinata-sama this morning. It's pleasant that she'll be released today. I'll be picking her up.

But on another side note, I wish to attend this play tonight. Hinata-sama and many of the others are acting within it and I wish to see how well they do with their performance. Stage acting is a very crafty skill and is very interesting to see how each person will play the characters of the story.

Christmas is nearing. ~~...tinsel~~

Tenten, give me a call if you need. I've been feeling oddly worried about you lately and I'm not sure why. Feeling as though I'm anxious or foreboding something. Maybe I'm having a small look into the future? I think I'll go to an astrologer soon.

The tea leaves in the bottom of my cup today where in the shape of a lighthouse. This mean soon to be Trouble threatening, but averted. And Success through a friend.

"To accomplish great things, we must dream as well as act."
-Anatole France (1844 - 1924)

Mon, 12 Dec 2005 05:39:06 GMT

Last few days have been hectic, even though I haven't left the house much.

I need to check these journals more often.

I think I've lost all faith in seeing any good worth in males these days. They just don't know how to treat women. *shakes head*

I'm getting back into training. I feel the urge to destroy something with my fists soon.

Oh, and Tenten, do not worry about not meeting with us. I know you've been distracted with other tasks.

"Let the lover be disgraceful, crazy, absent-minded.
Someone sober will worry about events going badly.
Let the lover be." -Rumi

shysunbeam: Nii-san...I have a few questions for you
obsessivescrew: Yes?
shysunbeam: Um..what did TenTen mean by what Itachi did to Deidara? She used a word I will not repeat...
obsessivescrew: *huff* They had sex under the influence of alcohol.
shysunbeam: Oh...but does that mean they are both...um, with each other now?
shysunbeam: And what does this mean for TenTen? I mean, aren't people only supposed to do...that...when they love each other?
shysunbeam: *is very confused*
obsessivescrew: No, I'm afraid not. They aren't together and they did something that is very inappropriate. People can have sex, regardless if they love each other or not. It's highly disgusting to have sex without a love bond in my eyes.
shysunbeam: I don't understand why they would. What about TenTen? She loves Deidara...
obsessivescrew: She does. That's why I'm so angered with Deidara-san. *clicks his tongue* It seems like many males these days do not know how to treat women with honor and respect. *shakes head*
shysunbeam: Nii-san, if I ever were to find a male like that, would you warn me? I would like to find someone like you *blush*
obsessivescrew: *smiles* If you ever found a male like that, he wouldn't live very long. *pats Hinata's head*
obsessivescrew: I'm flattered that you think that of me. *smiles*
shysunbeam: Why would I not? You seem to have everything worked out for yourself, you listen, and are kind hearted and protective. You should have a line of people wanting to get to know you better.
obsessivescrew: *small blush* Hmm...alas, despite all those kinds words I still am single. *shrugs* I don't think anyone would like to be with me because I tend to become a hermit.
shysunbeam: If not for all your work, I believe you are almost like a monk. Still, I am sure with time and persistence this can change.
shysunbeam: I do not mean to embarrass you...
obsessivescrew: *small smile* Yes, once my work is all done... I may try and rejoin the real world. So much happens out there. *chuckle*
I'm not that embarrassed. *looks away*
shysunbeam: That would be good for you. Um...why won't Kisame leave me alone? I've tried asking Itachi to tell him to go away, but then Itachi got shot, and TenTen spoke to him...
obsessivescrew: Kisame...Itachi... *huff*
obsessivescrew: Do you want me to "speak" with Kisame?
shysunbeam: Um...I would like to be able to leave the house in peace. I could swear somebody was outside the bathroom when I was showering the other day...
shysunbeam: And he knows TenTen stayed over the other night. *blush* He asked me if you were, um, gay. I ran away, like Master Kakashi told me to do.
obsessivescrew: He said what...? *furrows eyebrows* I'm glad you took Kakashi-sans advice...
shysunbeam: Well Master Kakashi feels I keep getting strange people to like me because I am too nice. He told me to be careful and no go anywhere alone where I might be attacked.
obsessivescrew: *nods* I fear fo you a lot. Once Tenten is finished dealing with her troubles, are you still going to train with her? I wish to help too. I do not want you to be in a bad situation.
shysunbeam: I hope TenTen will have time for me. I would like to...Um, Master Kakashi said since Gym teacher Anko seems to not be around he would consider training me.
obsessivescrew: Kakashi-san? That would be interesting. I hear he has a very good style. *nods approvingly*
shysunbeam: He said he knows of styles that could work well with my dancing.
obsessivescrew: Your dance skills would prove to be very helpful. *nods* You'll be able to move fluidly and swiftly.
shysunbeam: I hope to be able to make myself a more formidable threat. I do not like that everybody feels they need to take care of me...I don't want to rely on other people too much. Still...I kind of wish Shino-kun...
obsessivescrew: Hmm...?
shysunbeam: It's just...I have not seen him since before the dance. I wonder if he is avoiding me. I do not want to see too eager and try calling him...
obsessivescrew: I have yet to speak with him as well. Forgive me for not approaching him yet.
shysunbeam: It is okay, you have been busy. I on the other hand should have made more of an effort.
obsessivescrew: I still wish to speak with him. *huff*
shysunbeam: It is sad when I feel awkward because Itachi asked if I wanted him to beat up Kankuro, and offered to deal with Kisame, but I told him not to because those are offers a boyfriend should be making, not a friend...
obsessivescrew: Itachi a friend...? *narrows eyes* ..hm. But offering you some help...
shysunbeam: Um...he is sort of a friend. He set me free when Kisame...and he offered me money to cook for them. I feel bad that nobody in that frat house knows how to cook.
obsessivescrew: *lets out a steadying breath*
shysunbeam: I don't think I will be going to the frat house for a while though. I did not realize that they were sick in the head there.
obsessivescrew: That place upsets me...
shysunbeam: I don't like their closets
obsessivescrew: ...closets?
shysunbeam: Um, yes...Kisame thought it would be a good idea to put me in the closet.
obsessivescrew: W- What? He- ...*moves to sit down*
shysunbeam: *sits across from him* Remember the night I went to meditate by the river? Um...I started to fall asleep, and Kisame was there talking to the fish, and he offered to bring me home.
obsessivescrew: But he brought you to the frat house instead?
shysunbeam: Hai...and at some point after I fell asleep must have put a bag over my head and taped up my wrists and ankles. I kicked at the door, and then Itachi came in and cut the tape off...
obsessivescrew: *jaw is slack*
shysunbeam: Um, he seemed kind of mad at Kisame. That's why Itachi drove me home that night.
obsessivescrew: Hmm. *buries face in hands*
shysunbeam: I guess...TenTen talked to Kisame about it, and he said it was because he was hungry and knew I can cook...
obsessivescrew: Just...stay away from the frat house. It's not a good place...
shysunbeam: I will, especially since I wouldn't know how to react around Deidara or Kisame, and Itachi and Sasori seem to be the only sane ones...They might not be the safest, but they at least aren't mental.
shysunbeam: Actually...Itachi probably is.
obsessivescrew: I'm sure Itachi is. *nods* But I hear that Sasori is much better then the rest? I'm not all that sure.
shysunbeam: He was very nice to me. He is also nice to Sakura.
obsessivescrew: *nods a little*
shysunbeam: I fell asleep over there one night, after one of their parties, and Sasori put me on the couch instead of the floor. Um, he was also the one who told me the creepy guy staring at me when I woke up was Kisame.
obsessivescrew: *grits teeth and looks away*
shysunbeam: *reaches out and rests her hand on his* This was before you came home. I would never go to one of their parties now...
obsessivescrew: Good. Those parties are too much. *huff*
shysunbeam: They were very boring, lots of angry people...
obsessivescrew: I went to one of those parties long ago. I did not have fun. *shrugs*
shysunbeam: I've gone to two, and neither was fun. Kiba made me cry at one, and I fell asleep at the other
obsessivescrew: Then don't ever go again. I'm glad you never got seriously hurt.
shysunbeam: I won't, I promise. I just wish I knew what I did to get Kisame's attention. *shudders*
obsessivescrew: I'll kill him. Don't worry. *shrugs*
obsessivescrew: *thinks* Along with a whole bunch of other males.
shysunbeam: *blinks* Um, I don't believe murder is the answer. Besides, if you go to jail, who will watch out for me?
obsessivescrew: *chuckle* That's true. I believe I shall have to kill and hide the body then. No one will find out. *shrugs again*
shysunbeam: I would never say a word. *deathly serious*
obsessivescrew: *nods* Then it's a secret.
shysunbeam: You know I'd always keep your secrets. Um...nii-san? Do you think I'll ever find somebody who is always there for me? If I do, you'll be able to be free of me...
obsessivescrew: Be free of you? Hinata, you are not a burden to me. I have told you many times. *smiles at her* You will find someone, I'm positive. I'll kill anyone who you dislike. *smirk*
shysunbeam: Nii-san, I am a burden. I seem to attract trouble, and I cause you unneeded stress. You don't have to pretend with me...
obsessivescrew: *crosses arms* Did it ever come to you that I like to worry about you? You make me realize real life. You give me motivation.
shysunbeam: Um...no, I didn't realize that. I just thought you were so concerned because it was part of your job.
obsessivescrew: *shakes head* It's not a job. I like to make sure you're safe and happy. *said easily*
shysunbeam: I want you to be safe and happy too. That's why I like taking care of you.
obsessivescrew: See? Everything works out well. *nods* Maybe it has something to do with our fathers being twins. *smiles*
shysunbeam: *nods* Probably...but you should still be the favored one. In a different world, you'd be the perfect future choice for me, according to father.
obsessivescrew: I do not wish to be the favorite. I would feel so...closed in. I want both of us to be free. *shrugs* *pauses and smiles* Yes, in a different world.
shysunbeam: You deserve it more than I do, you are everything the family values. *smiles softly* Thanks to you, we are free. Soon we could even be happy...

Hn.

Sat, 10 Dec 2005 08:55:41 GMT

"Oh Brave New World that has such people in it..."
-Miranda, The Tempest

Sat, 03 Dec 2005 07:07:37 GMT

My- How everyone is so rambunctious these days.

I feel old. ~~And I worry far to much~~

Tenten – I shall call you once I get a few things finished with my work.

~~I need to get out more. I wonder if I should attend this Formal Dance...~~

Walking inside, Hinata smiles softly. "Um, hi..." She starts to head to her room, playing with her skirt.

Neji stood instantly from the computer chair and watched her with wide, worried eyes. He had bags under his eyes from very little sleep. "Hinata-sama! Where have you been...?" He tried to hide the worry in his voice.

She paused, turning slightly. "Um, I stayed at Shino-kuns' after the tournament. I would have called but it was late..."

"You should have called me! I-" He coughed. "You look- disheveled. Are you alright?"

Sitting on the couch, Hinata started giggling. "Yeah, except kind of bruise. Niisan, I tried to climb out a bathroom window at Blue Fin. It was horrible..."

Neji blinked at her and had to forcibly keep his jaw from going slack. "You- tried to climb out the window at the restaurant? May I ask why?" He sat down with her and reached out to fix a piece of her hair.

Playing with the hem of her pilfered t-shirt, Hinata sat up and let Neji fix her. "Well, Shikamru was being crabby, Ino and Chouji were...making out, Naruto and I were trying to keep peace but then Shino started naming chopsticks...Neji-san, why would a guy find eating utensils more interesting than his girlfriend?"

Even if he was trying to calm his nerves and keep that fact in his mind that Hinata was home and safe, he let out a short chuckle. "What a night you had... And I don't find anything particularly attractive about eating utensils. Why would one like them more then a girlfriend? Has Shino done something?" He raised his eyebrow in confusion. He seemed to be just spewing out questions.

Closing her eyes, Hinata blushed slightly. She sighed before answering. "Before I answer, let me just clarify that I only tried to go out the window because Shino was having fun and I wasn't going to make him leave with me regardless of how uncomfortable I felt. I got stuck, ripped my skirt, and bruised my stomach." She shows him.

"Everyone was moody as I said, so Naruto proposed a game involving chopsticks. Shino arranged his neatly, and seemed sad when he gave one up. Then he said something about a Nancy dying. I asked, he said it was his aunt, but I've never heard him mention Aunt Nancy..."

Neji blinked at her. He really did need to get out of this house and figure out things. This was bewildering. He barely understood a word about Nancy or the game or which was what. He tried to make sense of it for Hinata's sake though. "If you are uncomfortable you should have told Shino-san right away. IF he was any sort of gentleman he would have taken you home. Or you should have called me." He sighed. "I don't understand about this Nancy. Or Shino-san's attraction to chopsticks. I think I wish to speak with him now."

Hinata smiled slightly, trying to explain it better. "I think Nancy was what he named his chopstick. They all had names I'm sure. Um, he asked if I wanted to leave, but he was having fun. My plan was to sneak out the window and call you...I used to be small enough, but not anymore. I...got stuck backwards."

Neji slapped his forehead, clearly not amused. "Yes, I believe I do wish to speak with Shino-san now. Since he did ask you if you wanted to leave I excuse that, but the chop sticks is something that could be brought up into discussion. But Hinata-sama" He pleaded. "Isn't climbing out the window a little- unproper?"

She blushed brightly, looking away while biting her lip. "I assumed it wouldn't be if nobody saw me..." She looked up at him with pleading eyes. "Only Shino-kun saw me when he helped get me out. Um...my bottom was hangingoutthewindow..."

This time Neji couldn't stop his jaw from falling slack. "Shino- saw...your-" He quickly composed himself and stood. "Hinata-sama, would you like a hot cup of tea?" He needed one for himself anyhow.

She nodded, unable to speak for a moment. Clearing her throat, she tried to defend herself. "Um...for what its' worth it was dark out, and I was wearing black..."

Neji nodded. "Yes, do not worry. I'm just trying to grasp my brain around this." He blinked again and let out a huff. Hinata seemed to have grown so much. Going to large outting with friends, having a boyfriend, climbing out the window and having her boyfriend see her bottom. It was a little startling how fast things had been happening. Fate must have been giddy to get things moving. She'd always been so young and innocent to him. But as time says, people grow and change. He entered the kitchen to make the tea.

While Neji was making tea, Hinata took the opportunity to change. She kept the t-shirt on and swapped the shirt for a pair of baggy pants. Walking out to the kitchen, she smiled at Neji and put some cookies on a plate to go with the tea. "It's silly, but I just felt embarrassed by my friends and wanted to leave without making a scene..."

He nodded his thanks for the baked goods and passed her a cup of freshly brewed tea. "That is understandable. Most people want their friends to think highly of them. Going out a window is very different way of leaving though. I advise you to be more careful next time." He smiled gently.

"Oh, I will...Is it natural to feel out of place when ones friends are openly kissing, and ones boyfriend is practically ignoring them?"

Neji sipped at his cup. "I would think it would be natural. It's quite inappropriate to be kissing in front of friends at a social gathering. And to ignore is simply rude. In my eyes at least." He side. Yes, a talk with Shino-san was on his to-do list.

Hinata sipped her tea, already feeling a little better. "I stared at the niisan, but they didn't notice. Then I felt embarrassed for both myself and them. I felt weird, but not good weird like when Shikamaru raced Ino to the restaurant..."

"Race?" Neji asked, watching her. He knew how jumpy Ino could get with something like that. He prayed to himself that it was a running race and nothing more.

"Um..." She took another careful sip. "Ino's father bought her a new car. She and Chouji were in one car while I rode with Naruto and Lee in Shikamaru's car. We won, so Ino and Chouji owe us a fish dinner." She tried to keep her tone neutral. "Naruto kind of instigated things."

Neji almost dropped his tea cup. He unsteadily placed it on the table top. "Street race? Naruto-san?" He blinked. "Let me get this straight... You got into a car with Naruto-san and the others and had a race with Ino-san. Then you got to the family restaurant and climbed out the window." He fought the small head ache forming in his head. "This worries me Hinata-sama." He didn't want to be controlling, but he feared for Hinata's safety. "I'm glad it is all over and you are safe..." What else could he say?

Hinata could tell Neji was concerned and felt horrible. Speaking quietly, she took a deep breath. "It was kind of scary, and I must admit I don't feel I would repeat the events of last night if somebody paid me."

"Hn... It does seem like a rather dangerous night." He took his tea cup and sipped at it again. He thought for a moment, while watching Hinata and smiled slightly. "...Over all though- Did you have some fun?" Yes, Hinata is a young woman. She has a right to live on the edge sometimes. He remembered back when he was her age too.

She looked as if she was thinking, and trying not to laugh. "I did have some fun, but I was quite annoyed at Shino because he was clearly amused by my situation." Eyes wide, she blushed. "His mother took one look at me and thought he and I had slept together! Shino had a feeling she would think that..."

He let out a short chuckle. "That's amusing how she thought that. I think many mothers would think something along those lines."

"Would they be thrilled? She was practically hugging me...Oh! I have to call Blue Fin and see if they found my shoes." Hinata giggled. "I have to admit, the best part was the actual tournament. Shino and Shikamaru won."

"Thrilled? I meant as in the mothers would be shocked to see that. Shino-san's mother was thrilled? That's different." He sipped his cup again and placed it down. "I'll have to congratulate Shino and Shikamaru the next time I see them as well." He let out a huff, thinking about all this work he had to finish still. He pushed that thought away for now though. "Who else came to the tournament?

"Well, she was thrilled until she saw the bruise the window left on my stomach, then she thought Shino had forced me to do something..." Hinata bit her lip, thinking. "Ino was there, Chouji, Lee, and Naruto. We played spectators and cheered them on."

"The bruise? Does it need to be treated?" He asked, concerned once again.

Hinata lifted her shirt just enough to show the perfect dark purple line going across her midsection. "It is kind of tender, but I think its' okay. The only thing really hurting is my pride considering Shino acted like this was the funniest thing ever."

Neji's eyes twitched. His exhaustion was getting to him. "I'll go get some cream for that. It'll make it heal faster. Shino is rather brave to laugh about something like that." He sighed. He walked to the small drawer in the kitchen and pulled it open, digging around in it. When he found the cream, he handed it to Hinata. "Does Shino upset you? I have the overwhelming urge to speak with him."

Hinata took the cream, her worriy for Neji clear on her face. She started applying it as she spoke. "It bothers me that he seemed so happy when I asked him out, and is fine when we are alone or if I kiss or hug him, but when we are around people he seems distant. Also, the fact that he laughed at me, and doesn't seem to notice my efforts to look cute for him are upsetting."

"Ah, I see. Well maybe he doesn't want to seem inappropriate in public as the other two did at the restaurant were? It wasn't to that extreme but he's a little respectable for that. Though, he should rightly show you some affection while in public. You deserve it and Shino should try and reassure you that he cares by being a little affectionate in public." He tried to supply her with advice, but he didn't really know if he was making sense. He yawned.

Hinata sighed softly, taking Neji's tea cup. "You seem tired, I really hope you didn't wait up for me...Anyway, I'm not going to ask you to talk to shino on my behalf, but I would like it if you could perhaps find out if my affection is misplaced...Did that make sense?"

He tucked a piece of hair behind his ear. "I waited for a while. Yes, it makes a little bit of sense. Remind me in the morning though, I'm exhausted." He patted Hinata on the head and made his way for the hall. "We can finish talking in the morning. I'll even try and cook something. Goodnight, Hinata-sama."

"Hai, sleep well Neji-san." Hinata smiled and finished cleaning before heading to bed. It was nice to be worried about.

Wed, 23 Nov 2005 13:10:58 GMT

*stretches* I really have been away for far to long. Spoke with Tenten the other day and sorted a few things out with her... I'm glad she's been happy. For some reason, I feel urged to see who this Deidara person is. ~~She is much happier then she would have been if something went further with us.~~

I might not be available much this weekend. Helping Hinata-sama move her things into my home.

Still need to speak with ~~Shino-san~~ many a few. *long sigh*

So much has happened while I was away. I feel like I've missed years of life.

Thank fate for meditation.

Mon, 21 Nov 2005 13:35:36 GMT

I have returned home. I apologize for my extended absence. Now that I'm home it seems like I have a lot of work to do. Work never ends.

I'll be settling in one of the branching building now. And I guess it's about time to start living in my own place. Hinata-sama, my offer still lays for you to come stay with me here. It wouldn't be a bother at all. I'll come to see you soon as well Hinata-sama, or you can come see me. I'll be unpacking and settling into the apartment. I also picked you up a small gift on my way home.

*huff* It seems to me like I have a lot of people to talk to and a lot of people to catch up with. *twitch*

((Alright, we are all set up now. Neji's aim SN is Obsessivescrew! Add him up and talk with him. You'll have to ask before hand if it's Mich or Seki logged in, cause we share this SN for him. *snicker* Welcome him back!))

Wed, 16 Nov 2005 23:57:13 GMT

>TESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTvTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTvTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTEMICHRULEZSTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTvTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTvTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTTESTv