Marry First, Make It Official Later

Tenten and Neji had eaten rather early. Now that it was mealtime, the training grounds were empty instead.

Tenten had already clearly sensed that Neji was in a bad mood, and she could not help feeling uneasy.

When they reached the training grounds, Neji was silent for a while before finally taking a deep breath and speaking. "Tenten, I can't accompany you on your next mission."

Though Tenten felt somewhat disappointed, she was more relieved. She smiled.

"It's okay. I thought it was something serious. If you have something to do and can't go, then we can go together next time."

Neji stared at Tenten as if he wanted to carve her appearance into his memory.

"No. There won't be a next time. I won't be able to accompany you on missions anymore."

"W-what!?" Tenten asked, as though she had been struck by lightning.

"Why...?"

Neji fell silent without answering, but his lack of an answer represented the worst possible outcome.

Tenten's entire face went pale, and her breathing grew heavy. After a long while, she asked again.

"Then... will we still be able to meet again?"

Neji looked at Tenten, his eyes filled with obvious reluctance. "Probably not."

Tenten's eyes instantly reddened. "We've known each other for so many years. Did you come here today to cut ties with me!?"

Seeing tears well up in Tenten's eyes, Neji could not help reaching out his hand.

But before he could touch Tenten, Neji suddenly snapped awake as if electrocuted and swiftly pulled his hand back.

"I'm sorry... Take care of yourself."

Unable to meet Tenten's gaze, Neji spoke heavily before hurrying away.

Tenten stared in disbelief at Neji's departing back, and her tears finally began to fall.

She could not help standing up and shouting, "Neji!..."

Neji paused for a