Sasuke's twin sister, But Neji's first love

Unspoken Bonds

The day after the funeral, things had eased a bit, but the tension still lingered in the air. I needed some time to myself, so I decided to head to the training grounds. I had a lot to think about, and training was the best way to clear my head. I started off with target practice—throwing kunai and shuriken at tree stumps, focusing on improving my aim. Afterward, I practiced my fire jutsu, kicks, and punches. Hours passed, but it still didn't feel like enough. Finally, I took a break and leaned back against a tree, letting the sound of the leaves rustling calm me.

That's when I heard footsteps approaching.

"Seems like you've been working hard," a smooth voice called out.

"Hn," I replied, not even bothering to look. There was silence for a moment before he spoke again.

"Are you upset with me?" Neji asked.

I turned to look at him, narrowing my eyes. "What are you doing here, Hyuga?"

"I came to talk to you," he replied, his tone neutral.

I scowled. "What exactly do we have to talk about? Because, from what I remember, the last time we spoke was after your fight with Hinata, and she got carried away to the infirmary."

Neji didn't immediately respond. He just stood there, staring at me with an unreadable expression. After a moment, he sighed.

"I remember," he said quietly. "Which is why I'm here—to apologize."

I crossed my arms over my chest. "I shouldn't be the one you're apologizing to. Hinata deserves that more than I do."

Neji nodded. "I've already apologized to her. Knowing her, she forgave me immediately."

I nodded in acknowledgment but didn't say anything. The silence lingered for a few seconds before he spoke again.

"You've changed, Ryuko," he said, his voice softer than usual. "You seem distant."

I stayed quiet for a moment, unsure of how to respond. Finally, I spoke.

"When you fight someone... when you face near death, you realize just how helpless you are. It changes you. Motivates you. You crave the strength you didn't have before."

Neji's expression remained thoughtful as he processed my words. "And is that why you've been training out here for hours?"

I raised an eyebrow at him. "So, you've been watching me, huh? Real creepy, Hyuga."

He flustered, his face turning pink. "W-What? No! I just assumed since you looked pretty beat up and tired..."

"Wow. You really know how to flatter a girl," I teased, smirking at him.

Neji just shook his head, trying to recover. "What are you going to do now?"

I thought for a second before shrugging. "I think I'm done training for the day. I might walk around the village, maybe do some shopping, and get something to eat."

I went to stand up, but Neji stepped in front of me, holding out his hand. I paused for a second, glancing at it, then at his face. Slowly, I grabbed it, letting him pull me up.

"Would you mind if I joined you?" he asked hesitantly.

I raised an eyebrow, amused. "If you wanted to spend time with me, you could've just said that instead of beating around the bush."

Neji immediately turned his face away in embarrassment. I chuckled, rolling my eyes. "But sure, Hyuga. You can tag along."

We started walking toward the village, and as we walked, I glanced at him. "You know, you've changed too. You wouldn't have apologized to Hinata before. What changed?"