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

Tea & Dangos

I woke up to the sun shining in my eyes. Groaning softly, I sat up and stretched before getting dressed. As I stepped out of my room, I noticed the apartment was completely quiet. Curious, I peeked into Sasuke's room—empty. He was already gone.

"I wonder where he went..." I mumbled to myself, grabbing my keys and heading out. Locking the door behind me, I decided to visit Hinata. I hadn't seen her since the Chunin Exams, and I figured it was long overdue.

The village felt... peaceful. Maybe too peaceful. I walked through the streets, letting the calm breeze brush against me as I made my way toward the Hyuga compound. It felt strange being here again, but I didn't hesitate. Upon arriving at the entrance, I stepped inside and made my way to the main building. Stopping at the door, I knocked lightly and waited.

A few moments passed before the door opened, revealing none other than Hiashi Hyuga.

"Well, if it isn't the Uchiha girl," he said coldly. "What brings you here?"

"I'm here to see Hinata," I replied smoothly, keeping my tone neutral.

He narrowed his eyes slightly. "And what business do you have with my eldest daughter?"

We locked eyes. "I just want to see how she's doing—and maybe train with her."

"You?" he scoffed. "Training with her? Aren't you a little out of her league when it comes to combat?"

His words poked at my nerves, but I kept my composure.

"Exactly why we should train. But she's stronger than you think," I said, voice low and steady.

"Oh?" he raised a brow. "How so?"

"She puts up with you," I said bluntly. "Your expectations. Your disappointment. That alone makes her stronger than most of us. If I were in her shoes, I wouldn't have lasted nearly as long. Maybe instead of looking down on her, you should start recognizing her strength."

He stared at me in silence for a beat, then stepped aside.

"She's out back training with Neji."

I stepped past him, but before I could fully walk away, he spoke again.

"I can tell you care for her deeply."

"I do," I muttered. "Maybe you should start showing it to her more."

I walked through the compound, the sounds of sparring growing louder as I neared the training yard. When I arrived, I spotted Hinata and Neji locked in a spar. But something about it was different—Neji wasn't berating her or pushing her too hard. He was coaching her. Encouraging her. Giving her advice.

Before I could stop myself, I smiled.

Hinata noticed me and immediately straightened up, breaking her stance. "O-oh, hi Ryuko," she said softly.

Neji turned sharply, his eyes meeting mine. I approached, stopping in front of them.

"Hey, Hinata. I just wanted to check in—see how you're doing. Maybe hang out for a bit?" I asked.

She blushed slightly and nodded. "I've been doing good. Big brother has been helping me train."

I raised an eyebrow and smirked, glancing at Neji. "Big brother, huh?"

He blushed and gave me a small glare. "Shut up."

"Wow, rude," I teased, making Hinata glance between us with a shy smile.

Neji looked between us again before turning away with a huff. "Not needed for this..."

"Thanks for the training, Neji," Hinata called after him sweetly.