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Summer Love
Chapter One-Dawn of Summer Mystery

My day started out like any other.
At 6:30 AM, my alarm woke me up from my peaceful dreams and told me to get my butt out of bed.
At 6:32 AM, I stepped into the shower, hot water trickling down my body, reviving my non-awaken state I’m always in this early in the morning.
At 6:42 AM, I drag myself away from the warmth of my shower and wrap a towel around my body as a grab a brush from the shelf next to the mirror, armed to deal with my wet, frantic brown hair.
6:45 AM, Hair brushed and smoothed down into two buns, I grab my clothes and dress my now almost dry body, making sure that my shirt isn’t see-through (believe me, I’m not doing THAT again).
6:47 AM, Showered, dressed and bloody tired, I make my way downstairs to eat breakfast, my stomach, I’m sure, was making enough noise to wake the whole of Japan the way it was growling.
6:48 AM, Greeted by parents who are on their way out to work, I hardly see them now a days, but it’s ok. I understand…I suppose. Again, I just stand there, waving, telling them both to have a good day…but it’s like they don’t hear me…they’re both out of the door without a ‘thanks’ or even a ‘goodbye’…still, they have their lives, I have mine, no big deal.
6:49 AM, Grab a bowl, spoon, milk and my favourite cereal, Kunai chunks. I know, childish but hey, they’re bloody good grub if I say so myself.
6:55 AM, Stomach now satisfied and used things put in dishwasher (not the milk and cereal obviously), I grab my school bag and head out the door.

Like is said, my normal start to the day, It was pretty…normish. However, the rest that followed, was not. For today was the last day of school. Yes, summer was right around the corner and everyone was buzzing with excitement about holidays, trips to the beach, and those long lazy days filled with relaxation. Even though I wasn’t going on holiday, I was still pretty relived about the whole 7 weeks off thing, sure I’d probably be totally bored in about a weeks time but at least I get to spend it away from that clammy, prison-like building they call ‘The School Grounds’. Also on the plus side, I wouldn’t be alone either!
“Good morning Tenten-chan!”
“Huh, oh, morning Hinata! Sorry, I was daydreaming again”
Hinata Hyuuga, my best friend since…well forever really. The shyest but sweetest and kindest girl I know. Even though I was a year older than she was (I was 15, she was 14) and I was in the grade above her, we seemed to get along just fine, I mean, Hinata was a really understanding person and even more mature than me. Hinata was in her usual condition, her long, straight navy hair that reached down to her waist was blowing in the calm breeze, her clear eyes glimmering in the summer sun, her perfect school uniform, no creases or stains to be seen and her school bag was held loosely in her pale hands. I know that if she hadn’t been around for all these years, I would be a pretty lonely person, so I was grateful for her loyal company, especially during the long walks to school.
Hinata giggled sweetly
“Tenten, after all these years you still have your daydreams at least 100 times a day”
I smiled and gave her a fake ‘upset face’. She seemed quite concerned at first (another thing I loved about her, so considerate to others), until I let out a laugh. She also started laughing with me, and the walk continued…as normal.

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Arriving a little before the first bell, we decided to enjoy the sun a little longer until we were forced into classes. We found a spot on the field and settled into a relaxing state, still in full conversation with eachother. During the conversation, I took a glance around at the landscape. Everyone seemed to have the same idea as us but I didn’t mind the crowdedness, infact, it made me feel warm, It made me feel like I was a part of something… for once. Suddenly, I heard a faint gasping come from Hinata, this wasn’t unusual and as I looked round, sure enough, there was Hinata, a blush creeping across her cheeks as the notorious Naruto Uzumaki entered the Highschool gates. Poor Hinata, it was obvious that she liked him…a lot, but if only her heart was louder than her mind when it came to talking to guys. Well, to be honest, I’ve never had that sort of feeling for a guy (or girl for that matter), it’s just not happened yet. And even if I want it to…well, that’s a whole different story. I wanted to help Hinata so much but I know that she wants to overcome this fear herself, and as her friend, I had to respect that. I let her have her little moment, but I never took my eye off of her or him, just in case something happened (it has before…but I’ll explain that some other time). Thankfully, nothing did occur and he walked into the building after about a minute of walking into the school premises. Hinata gave a little sigh, as her blush finally seemed to settle down. She looked up to me in apology and I just nodded, gently forgiving my friend, like we do every morning.
“I…I wish I could just t-talk to him Tenten…” Her voice sounded so weak I could barley hear her but I’m sure I heard her correctly…she just admitted her feelings! This was a first, even to me, her best friend since we were so little we could hardly walk!
“H-Hinata…”
There was no time for chat as the echo of the bell reached our ears. We stood, like the rest of the students and walked in silence (me, I was in awe) into the school building.

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Lunch rolled around quicker than expected. I thought today would drag on and on but it surprised me when the bell sounded for lunch. The cafeteria was at it’s loudest as today was burger day, and as today was the last day, they were half price, so everyone wanted one more than usual. I wasn’t in the mood for a food war so I took my place in the queue of the salad bar, a much more civilised place (I wonder why). Paying for my healthy meal, I scanned the seating area, looking out for the rowdy group I belonged to. Suddenly hearing two familiar voices from across the room, I turned and spotted a pink-haired girl and a blonde-haired girl in full insult mode. This was routine not only for me, but also for the whole school.
“So Ino-PIG, how did you do in your biology test, another fail?”
“On the contrary, Forehead, I passed AND got the best marks in the class”
“What, you really got one question right?!”
“YOU WANNA REPEAT THAT?!”
I sighed, this would end in it’s own time, as usual. I saw Hinata wave to me, a grateful look spread across her face as she saw me approach. I took my seat facing Hinata at the end of the table and next to Temari, another friend of mine. She was sitting next to her boyfriend, Shikamaru who regularly joins us during lunch so we were used to at least one boy sitting in our group. I didn’t really know him but he seemed nice and if he made Temari happy, that was enough for me.
“Hey everyone” I said, casually looking about the table. Sakura and Ino stopped their little argument to look up.
“Hey Tenten! How’s your day been?” Sakura asked, forgetting all about her recent argument. I had no idea how they were and still are bestfriends…I’ll never understand I suppose.
“Good, nothing unusual so far. Your guys looking forward to the summer”
“Am I ever! No more teachers breathing down your neck and acting like they own the place!”
“You Baka Ino-Pig, it’s cause they DO”
“Not technically Forehead, the Headmaster does.”
“Whatever. Still, we can do whatever we want for 7.whole. WEEKS!” A joyous cheer followed that from us all. She was right, but I’d still like to go somewhere exotic or see something different even if it was for a week or two.
“Yeah, but you and Ino are so lucky, you get to go on holiday together” I said, trying not to sound too depressed but happy for them, which I was.
“Yeah but, with her?” Ino and Sakura both pointed to eachother and said it simultaneously, making me chuckle and Hinata giggle. I looked at Hinata, how I wanted to talk to her about finally admitting her feelings for the wild, blonde boy. It would have to wait…I just had to be patient…god dammit how I hated waiting.

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I was literally shoved out of the School building by a stampede of eager students trying to get out; the last bell had finally rung. I didn’t mind really, I also wanted to get out as soon as possible, but for different reasons. Hinata and I still had that walk home to talk about her confession for Naruto so I guess I didn’t need to rush but god dammit I couldn’t wait any longer! Finally bursting through the fire exit, I ran to the side to let the others behind me out before I got trampled on for real. Sighing with relief, I started to walk to mine and Hinata’s usual meeting spot, under the shade of the Sakura tree a little before the school gates. It was a beautiful tree, almost from a fairy tale…it didn’t belong in such a rough and loud place like this. Even so, it was still here, and if it wasn’t I wouldn’t be able to enjoy it’s beauty. As I approached the tree, I saw that Hinata wasn’t there. This wasn’t uncommon so I didn’t worry; instead, I took my place under the tree, giving my feet some time off.

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Ten minutes had passed…still no Hinata. Now I was getting worried. Opening up my bag, I fetched out my mobile, flipped up the screen and called Hinata. Holding the device up to my ear, I heard the phone ring…. and ring…and ring…I let it ring until I heard the ‘leave a message after the beep’ thing every phone has. Flipping the phone back down, I decided something must’ve happened to her. Without a seconds thought, I raced back into the building through the front, hoping she was ok, I mean, nothing big could’ve happened right? I was running through reception when I heard someone call out.
“Excuse me, young lady, is your name Tenten by any chance?”
Hearing my name, I stalled and looked round. The women behind the reception desk was looking at me, it must’ve been her talking to me.
“Yes, I’m Tenten…” The receptionist seemed pleased
“Ah good, a young lady by the name of Hinata just called and asked if you were still here”
Hearing Hinata’s name surprised me, where was she? And why did she ring the school and not my mobile?
“What did she say? Is she ok?”
“Calm down dear, she told me to tell you she was sorry for not waiting for you, but her father called her during a lesson and said something important came up. She had to leave early but she said not to worry and that she would call you later if things go to plan”
She had to leave…early? If everything goes to plan? What was going on?
“OK, thank you…have a nice holiday miss…”
The lady smiled at me and carried on with her final paperwork. I walked out of the building feeling confused but relived that Hinata was ok. But it didn’t help my confused head…what was going on?!

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When I unlocked the front door to my house, I was greeted with sweet silence. My parents worked late most nights and so I was alone to think, thank god. Dropping my school bag on the floor, I rushed up the stairs and entered my room as quick as I could. I decided that this Hinata thing was going to drive me mad if I didn’t find something to do and fast…so as I walked past my dresser with my trusty laptop lying on it, I flicked the switch and it burst into technical life. Changing rapidly into my favourite blue jeans and a light green top, I hung up my school uniform in my small wardrobe and sat at my laptop, waiting for the home screen to come on. Entering my password, the laptop made its little tune and entered my personal technical world. My background greeted me; it was a dated picture of Hinata and me at the park when we were about 4 and 5. I loved that picture; it reminded me of a simpler time. None the less, the picture just reminded me of Hinata again, so it was no use…flicking the switch again so it would turn back off, I decided a book would help me clear my mind. Usually, I would stay away from books unless I wanted to fall to sleep fast but there was one series of books that interested me…The Twilight books by Stephenie Meyers were just breathtakingly brilliant. So classic yet so thrilling, the little twists and turns that happen…it’s just so…amazing! I was just about to grab that phenomenal book from my clear shelf as I heard a faint ringing sound from downstairs…it was the phone…it could be Hinata! I snapped my head up and made my legs sprint as fast as they could down the stairs, almost tripping up at the end. Finding my balance, I straightened up and snatched the phone from its place on the table.
“Hello, Hinata, is that you?!”
“CONGRATULATIONS! You have just won a fre-“
I slammed the phone down hard. I hated those stupid callers, and at a time like this, it was just cruel. My heart rate slowed as I made my way back up the stairs at the slowest pace possible.

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Around an hour later, I was not a pretty sight. When I first got back to my room, I tried reading ‘Twilight’ but had to force myself to put it down due to the fact I was shaking with anger because of the stupid callers, who pays them to do that anyway?! So, instead, I paced up and down my room like a maniac, yes, I was this obsessed! I’d called Hinata a million times (I’m not kidding…ok, maybe just a little) and she still won’t answer. It was a stupid thing of her to tell me ‘not to worry’ because ofcourse I’m gonna bloody worry! Even though I knew she was safe…she told me so…but what if that was just a cover up? What if she really isn’t safe…and in danger! Oh no…what the HELL is going o-
Suddenly, I heard a familiar song playing…Unwritten was echoing around my room…that song…was Hinata’s ring tone on my phone.
…
…
…
MY FRICKIN PHONE IS RINGING!!
Diving for my phone and landing in a heap on the floor, I flipped the phone open to receive the call.
“Hinata, what’s wrong, are you ok? Why’d you leave early, is everything ok? Did we have any math homework over the summer? What did you mean by ‘if everything goes to plan? I don’t understand-
“Tenten-chan! Calm down!” I paused, panting for much needed oxygen.
“Tenten-chan, everything’s fine…infact, more than fine! Didn’t you get my message at the school reception?”
“Y-Yes I did…but I was still worried none the less of what some old bag said”
“I know, I know and I’m sorry, ever so sorry. But, I’ve got some big, no wait, HUGE news!” Huge news?! The last time Hinata said she had huge news was when she announced she got into Konaha high school, so it had to be good!
“Hinata, you know I hate it when I have to wait for things! Spill before I burst!”
“Well, the reason I had to leave school early today was because my dad had to go away on an emergency business meeting all the way in America so he needed me there to announce some details while he was gone. The first thing he told me was that I wasn’t allowed to stay here, in the Hyuuga house, while he was away-“
“WHAT?! That’s ridiculous! That’s just so-“
“Tenten-chan, don’t worry, just listen. He told me I was to stay in the Hyuuga Summer house until he came back, as my older cousin would be staying there to work on his studies. When he had finished, I began to disagree with his choice, that I would be lonely all on my own. And that’s when it hit me, the greatest plan I’d ever thought of since…since…”
“Hinata!! Just spill!!”
“Ok ok. I’ll just ask you this. Who do you know that will be really bored this summer and has a best friend that can offer them a trip to paradise together?”
“…Errrmmm…Well, it wouldn’t be Ino or Sakura as they’re together on holiday…Temari will be out with Shikamaru…oohhh….”
“Tenten-chan…it’s you!! You’re the person whose really going to be bored this summer and her best friend that can offer you a trip to paradise together!”
“You mean…We’re going on holiday?!”
“Tenten-chan, you’re supposed to be smart! And yes, we are going on holiday together!”
Screaming happily was something I didn’t do…ever, but this was a special occasion.
“OH HELL YEAH!”

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My heart was pounding with excitement as I finally hung up my mobile from an hour-long conversation with Hinata. We would’ve talked for longer but her father had threatened to cut the phone line (again) if she didn’t hang up in the next ten seconds. We would of usually talked for another ten minutes after that common threat but after allowing me to join Hinata on her holiday, I decided it wasn’t a good idea to get on the wrong side of him and so I respected his wishes, for once.
I don’t know how she does it, not only does she get her father to allow me to join her but she also managed to call up my parents and ask their permission aswell! (I dunno how she knows their number but like that matters right now!) They were reluctant to accept at first but after hearing that there was no charge in the stay, they agreed (great, now I feel loved, but again, like I care, as long as they said yes!)
During the conversation, Hinata didn’t want to give too much away about the Summer House, so all she said was pack responsibly, to be prepared for anything, not to bring any money as everything was ‘on the house, and that a car would be at my house to pick me up at 11AM tomorrow morning. At least this meant I had time to prepare, say goodbye to my parents and friends and to calm down.
However, the thought of ‘making sure I was prepared’ did make me very curious, almost overly curious, of what I was to expect from the house, but none-the-less, even with this little information, I was very impressed.
Apart from that, the conversation I had only a few minutes ago was a blur in my mind, a simple hour chatting to a true, loyal, kind friend. A person I knew I wasn’t going to forget easily, if not, a person I wouldn’t ever forget. However, don’t think that this holiday was a trigger of me thinking only good for the innocent Hyuuga, no, for I had always thought of her like that, she had always been a dependable person, someone I could always turn to. This unusual occasion was a treat for the both of us, and we were both grateful for eachothers company, at least, that’s what I thought.
In my daze, I dropped my phone on my bed and stumbled my way across the cold wooden floor over to my wardrobe, where I creaked open the doors to reveal my clothes. Glazing over my jeans, long tops, tracksuits for my occasional runs, a dress I had only worn once to a school prom about a year ago, a one-piece swimsuit and my pyjamas, I decided that they would be enough. If not, I would pick up a couple of cheap tops while I was at the Summer House, as to try and not take advantage of the fact everything was to be paid for and not by me. Besides, I wasn’t one to make a fuss of what I wore to any occasions really, I was simple…way too simple in my mothers eyes. She accepted it though, thank goodness, as I wouldn’t want to change who I was, ever.
Shutting my wardrobe doors, I glanced over to the clock sitting on my dresser, it read ‘6:45PM’. Concluding that I should get on with dinner, as my parents would be home soon, hungry after a long days work, I walked across to my bedroom door, more calm and feeling more graceful than I was before, walked through and closed it behind me with an echoing ‘click’.

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I kept glancing at the clock on the living room wall, watching the hands tick and tock in a slow and steady rhythm. Like last time I checked, it read ’10:30AM’. It was so frustrating; I had done everything I could think of to keep myself from this anxious wait. I thought I’d left most of my packing till this morning, as if I had a mountain left to pack, but I was wrong. I awoke this morning (earlier than usual for the holidays, as you may’ve guessed) and found that I only had some of my meagre clothes and other necessities left to stuff in the suitcase. I had to check my list once more (yes, I had a list, I was that worried about forgetting something important) just to check, and sure enough, everything was in place, ready for the journey ahead. I was annoyed but still confused, had I been sleep packing or something?
I had quickly forgotten about it shortly after and I remember fixing some breakfast, a fruit salad something simple but would still take a little longer to prepare than something like cereal, a perfect way to keep me busy. After that however, I had little to do apart from shower, dress and do my hair, which usually only took half an hour, 45 minutes at the most if I was in no hurry. Today however, my wish was to be as slow as possible, so it took almost an hour to do my natural routine. It was a drag, making sure I took every step, every turn as leisurely as possible, it was painfully tiring.
I must’ve failed at being sluggish as when I looked up at the clock, it only read 10:15 AM. It could’ve been worse but I’m no the patient type, so what looked like a mere 45 minutes to a normal person, was like a gruelling 2 hour long wait for me…dammit.
Well, I could do nothing about it; I would just have to endure my impatience as humanly as I could manage. Boy, this was going to be fun…

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Finally, for what seemed like a decade, I heard a gentle, yet loud, tap on the door. As soon as the echo reached my ears, I launched myself from my seat and hurried into t hall, where I slowed, composed myself, and walked as casually as I could to the front door. As soon as I answered the door, I knew something extraordinary was there to greet me. Awaiting my answer, was what appeared to be a fragile, friendly old man. He was dressed smartly in a dark blue, almost navy, uniform that included a rounded hat and a nametag. Apparently his name was Botan, which came in handy on this occasion, I hated calling people ‘sir’ and ‘madam’, it just seemed so…common. The old man took off his hat and bowed slightly, bending his arm across his chest, which held the hat he was wearing a few seconds ago.
“Good morning Miss Tenten-sama. Miss Hinata-sama advised me to pick you up; I will be taking you to the Hyuuga Household as Hinata-sama intended to. Are these plans acceptable?” He spoke with such a gentle and polite voice…he called me Tenten-sama! I knew I shouldn’t feel superior to Botan, so I also bowed and smiled politely. Now, just to sound posh…
“Indeed they are. Arigato Botan for…err…taking me to Hinata’s-I mean, the Hyuuga Household” I heard Botan chuckle, he seemed amused at my failed attempt to sound posh…but it could’ve been worse, I could’ve curtsied or something.
“Miss Tenten-sama, I admire your attempt at sounding higher class but I think we would both agree that your normal voice is graceful enough. This old man can’t take much more beauty”
This guy sure knew how to get on peoples good sides, and it had sure worked on me. I felt a small blush flutter over my cheeks as I smiled at the man’s kindness.
“Arigato again Botan. I shall take your advice; I don’t want to embarrass myself again. I’ll just go and get my suitcase, one moment”. I left the door open as I walked through my house and into the living room once more to retrieve my suitcase. It wasn’t heavy but it wasn’t light either. I could handle it just fine but as I reached the front door once more, Botan stretched out his hang and easily lifted the suitcase from my hand and walked down to the limo. Wait…limo?!
Yes, I took a double take at the vehicle but sure enough, parked on the driveway, was a classic black limo, glimmering in the early morning sun. I was overwhelmed with excitement, I wanted to jump up and down with joy, but I kept my posture. I couldn’t help but gasp though in surprise at what I was about to ride in. Riding in style just got a whole new meaning in my book. As I snapped out of my amazed state, Botan had already loaded the boot with my belongings and had opened the limo door, waiting for me to step into the car so he could shut it. Catching on to what he wanted, I half walked half jogged to the limo door and stepped in as agilely as I could manage. Thankfully, I didn’t trip or anything and Botan shut the door behind and proceeded to take his place in the Drivers seat. The black leather seats were warm to touch and they were so cushioned it was unbelievable. The floor of the limo was carpeted a brilliant Scarlet red and made me think immediately of royalty. It was fascinating to see what the rich could afford, but I would never envy them really.
I noticed that I couldn’t see into the front seats of the limo, so I was oblivious if Botan had entered the limo yet or not.
Stretching, I took one last look at my home. I didn’t know exactly how long I would be away for but I knew it would be a while before I could sleep in my own bed again.
As if I was saying goodbye to the house, I took in every detail of the place. The simple yet clean front lawn, the bricks that made the house and the crisp white paint that covered every single one, the dark brown front door that seemed so welcoming from my point of view and the windows that dotted around the building which I could name each room the window belonged to.
I heard Botan start the engine and sure enough, we were starting to move.
Well, this was it. I didn’t know whether I’d had too much fruit for breakfast or if I was just nervous but I could feel my stomach squirm. I could sense that this was going to be one hell of a holiday.

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