Chapter 2: Chapter 2
Later that evening, I snuck back inside my family's home and went straight to my room after convincing a few maids not to announce my arrival to my father.
Our house wasn't the mansion you'd expect the CEO of Hyuuga to have, but it was still grander than a run-of-the-mill high-class family home. My mother had designed the house before dying while giving birth to Hanabi. She was an outstanding architect who gave up her career when she fell in love with my dad. She gave up one dream for another.
When Father found the designs after her passing, he made plans to have the house built without a moment's delay. It's been years since her untimely death, but Father has never even gone on a date with another woman. Instead, he threw himself into his work, which obviously paid off with the company's current status.
Even if the company continues to thrive, his home life wasn't. Hanabi still has her rebellious teenage nature to outgrow but shows promise that I clearly don't. Neji, when around, tries his best to follow in Father's footsteps. His own father died when he was a child, and my mother convinced my father to take him in. Hiashi doesn't treat him as one of his own but still acknowledges his skill in the field. Neji is focused and driven around his uncle, but when he isn't around, he's actually quite mellow and comforting, if a little short-tempered, when it comes to Hanabi and me.
Alas, that leaves me: the eldest daughter that just doesn't have what it takes. As Father has repeatedly said, I am too "soft" to fit the bill. I don't feel there's anything spectacular about my compassion and empathy toward others compared to your everyday person. Still, compared to the Hyuuga family, I'm the black sheep.
Anything less than complete professionalism is unacceptable. It's even normal for Hyuga parents to treat their children as a type of understudy rather than family members.
I sighed while applying the finishing touches to an overnight face mask in the mirror of my ensuite bathroom. It was dark out, nearly midnight, and I couldn't manage to fall asleep.
A few things were making me restless. The first being, obviously, the audition I'd have to somehow perform well in tomorrow. Kakashi Hatake had said that I was the final member of this four-person group.
A familiar warmth rose to my cheeks, but I felt cooler with the still-drying mask against my skin. That means that everyone else will be ahead of me regarding training. Not only that, but I'll have no choice but to get along with whoever's already part of the group. It's been so long since I've spoken comfortably with anyone my age. In fact, I was beginning to worry if I'd start to have fainting spells again.
Suigetsu's the second reason for my insomnia. Would he be waiting for me when I get to school after tomorrow's audition? Did he tell Karin about what happened earlier? If so, would she try to hurt me in return?
I absent-mindedly touched the messy bun on the top of my head, remembering that poor pink-haired girl they'd bullied.
Another sigh slipped past my lips, and I wandered into my bedroom. It had plush gray carpet, white Victorian-style furniture, and a large poster bed with lavender bedding thrown invitingly on top of the plush mattress and silky sheets. My bed is, by far, my favorite thing in the whole house.
Despite longing to throw myself unceremoniously onto the soft contraption, I headed to my walk-in closet and debated what to wear for the audition. I'd decided to skip my morning classes, go to the audition, and then go to school afterward if I finished in time.
I hadn't missed a school day since year three of elementary when I had chickenpox. If I were ever sick, Father would have me take medication and then send me off anyway, more worried about my schooling than me getting someone else sick or how terrible I felt.
A small part of me hoped this audition went well and I'd help this group become world-famous just to show my father that I could succeed at something and maybe just a little bit to spite him for mistreating me throughout the years. The more significant part of me wanted this for myself. This could be the escape from a life I was incredibly unfit for, which I've longed for as long as I could remember!
After searching the closet from top to bottom for a long time, I chose a dark purple dress that tightened at the waist and loosened up at the bottom. It ended slightly above my knees with long sleeves and pockets. I also chose a pair of white flats with a pretty floral design. After laying out the clothes and carefully selecting a low-key necklace to pair it with, I finally forced myself to shut out the lights and go to bed.
The following day I woke up to the sun shining through my silk curtains directly onto my eyelids. My alarm hadn't even gone off yet, and I felt as though I hadn't slept a wink, but I didn't let that damper my excitement. Unfortunately, it did little to lessen my nervousness, but I'd just have to power through it.
No one came to check on me because I usually care for myself. Father leaves for work very early each morning, so he never sees Hanabi or me off to school, and the maids leave me alone at my request.
After rinsing the mask off my face, I let my hair down and did some loose curls at the ends, applying a dab of concealer under my eyes just in case there were bags and mascara on my eyelashes. Before putting on the outfit I'd picked out the night before and heading downstairs, I looked at my reflection in the mirror, hoping I'd made decent choices. You don't get to audition for a renowned entertainment agency every day, so I wasn't sure of the expectation.
Only the maids were home at this time, and none said anything other than good morning to me. It's not because of me that they're so formal, but they'd been threatened upon hire that they wouldn't attempt conversation with any of the Hyugas unless addressed first. I always made sure to smile at them when we made eye contact and thank them for their help when I had the chance as my small way of reassuring them that not all of us are uptight and overwhelmingly professional at all times.
While I prepared myself a piece of toast for breakfast, I did some vocal warm-ups that I was taught in choir class in middle school, when it was a requirement and not an elective class. Father would never approve of me choosing an elective unrelated to running the family business, so I hadn't even tried to apply for it when filling out my preferred classes each year. I've never had any professional singing lessons, but I've watched several tutorials online, and every single one says that warming up is necessary for healthy singing.
I drank a glass of water after breakfast to clear my throat before grabbing my purse and heading outside. The agency was located across town and would take about forty minutes to get to, which would have me show up about ten minutes early.
After hailing a cab and giving the woman in the front seat the address, I pulled out my wallet to make sure I had cash to give the driver when the ride was finished. I have a few credit cards, courtesy of the Hyuga, but I try not to use them too much for fear that Father would scour over the billing statement and question me about each use.
"Would you like to listen to the radio, Ma'am?"
I nearly jumped out of my skin at the woman's sudden question. She was a beautiful redhead with tattoos on her arms and a smile on her freckled face. Instead, I smiled and nodded.
She turned the dial on the dash, and I took the opportunity to continue warming up my voice by humming along with whatever songs played on the radio. The ride seemed to fly by since I had something to focus on, and before I knew it, we were in front of a large, modern-looking building with large windows lining the whole front side.
I paid the woman and gave her a tip before she left me in front of what could be my future. All types of people were walking around, to and from the agency. There were business-like people in suits and ties, regularly dressed civilians that may have been stopping in to get the scoop on their favorite groups, and young hopeful-looking people who seemed as though they were there to audition like me.
There were also a few photographers, paparazzi, I assume, taking pictures of everyone who entered or left the building. Their bosses must assign them to that job to get a first picture of a new artist, which would most likely be very good for whatever news outlet they work for.
I kept my head low as one of them turned my way to snap a picture, hoping they wouldn't recognize me by my family's unique eye color. As I walked pointedly toward the door, one got to his feet to come up and grab my arm.
My eyes shot up to his, and he obviously recognized me. The man quickly shoved his camera in my face and started taking snapshot after snapshot of what must've been a very bewildered expression.
I tried to pull my arm from the rude man, but he tightened his grip. I don't know how he took pictures with the giant camera one-handed, but he did. He must be experienced with this type of thing. I used my free arm to duck my head and cover my face as I pulled against his hold.
After momentarily looking at his camera screen and realizing he'd already gotten the shot he needed, the man released my now-sore arm to sprint away before I could do anything. I fell clumsily onto the concrete walkway.
Fastly approaching footsteps sounded behind me, and I looked up to see Kakashi approach, once again offering a hand to help me up. He wasn't smiling this time, though, as he told a large man in a suit with sunglasses to chase down the man who had taken my picture. I accepted his waiting hand and dusted off my dress after standing up.
Kakashi watched as the large man took off in the direction of the paparazzi guy before turning to me with an apologetic smile, "I'm so sorry, Hinata! Are you hurt?" He gazed down at my scuffed knees with worry etched onto his brow.
I felt more at ease talking with the older male than I had yesterday, having gotten over the initial shock of his status after having coffee with him, "I'm alright, t-thank you…."
Kakashi sighed in relief before guiding me into the impressive building, weaving me through the slightly crowded entryway and through a few doors and halls before we arrived in a large room with mirrors covering one wall of the room completely. A grand piano sat in the corner, and a few people sat in expensive-looking chairs next to it.
Nervously, I glanced back at Kakashi, who smiled amusedly and gestured for me to stand near the piano. I did as instructed, and he stood next to me, both of us facing the three people who were previously sitting but had risen to politely greet us.
"Hinata, allow me to introduce my colleagues."
He gestured to the furthest one from where I stood, a tall and busty blonde woman with a barely-there smile, "This is Tsunade. She is a legendary choreographer who has trained every one of the idols signed to Evolution." I smiled anxiously at the woman, who kept a smile that looked as if it was only there due to obligation. She nodded and looked to her right as Kakashi moved on to the next person. It was an older man with very long white hair and wrinkles on his cheeks.
"This is Jiraiya. He is a world-renowned vocal coach that trains a select few of our idols but is included in every decision of who makes the cut during their initial audition."
I gave this man a smile as well, and he mirrored it. I felt more relaxed around that man than the blonde woman who was now staring past the older man at the third and final person in their group.
I followed her gaze and nearly choked on my breath. Standing in front of me was none other than Tenten.
The Tenten.
On top of being one of my personal favorite artists, she's one of Evolution's very few soloists. Right now, she's at the height of her career as one of the most famous people not just from Konoha, but maybe in the world.
My face felt hot, and I wondered if I would pass out. It's been a while since I've had a fainting spell. To try and keep my composure, I quickly drew my eyes away from the beautiful young woman to look back up at Kakashi, who had a knowing look on his face.
I closed my eyes and took a deep breath as inconspicuous as possible before smiling at the waiting woman as Kakashi finished his introductions, "This is Tenten, one of our solo artists who has lately shown interest in finding new talent for the agency. She recruited two of the three other members in the group you're auditioning for and will act as a mentor should you pass this audition."
My mouth clamped shut to keep myself from spitting out words of admiration for her work and simply continued to smile at the woman as she and the others sat back down. Kakashi chuckled at my suddenly robotic posture before lightly touching my shoulder, "Let's move forward with the audition, shall we?"
Once I returned his smile, he sat next to Tsunade, who handed him a clipboard with a few papers and a pen. He glanced down at it before stating in a more business-like voice, "Please state your name and age."
His change in demeanor threatened to throw me for a loop, but I forced myself to answer as smoothly as possible, "My name is Hinata H-Hyuuga, and I'm eighteen years old."
He jotted that down on his paper and continued without looking at me. I was okay with him not looking because the other three people watched me like hawks.
"Would you say you have more singing, dancing, or acting talent?"
I didn't really have to think and responded, "Singing."
He noted that on his clipboard, glancing at Jiraiya as if telling him he should pay more attention since I would focus on vocals.
"What is your favorite song right now?"
My cheeks felt warm again, and I nervously glanced down at my shoes, "If No One Will Listen by T-Tenten."
The artist in question interrupted Kakashi with an inquiring smile on her face, "That song isn't available online yet. Did you preorder my album?"
My eyes shot to hers in shock that she was directly addressing me, but I quickly replied, "Yes! I-I r-really like your music!" Tenten leaned back in her chair and looked at the other three haughtily as if proud.
The other three rolled their eyes at her before Kakashi continued, "This is the last question before we'll have you sing, Hinata; what makes you love music?"
I thought about it briefly before speaking honestly, "You can s-sing a song to ten thousand different people, and that song will have thousands of different meanings. I want to be there for others like some artists have been for m-me."
The four "judges" nodded silently, but I couldn't tell if they liked my response. Then, Jiraiya rose to his feet without further ado and walked around me to sit at the piano. His naturally raspy voice sounded like he'd be very talented at singing the blues, "What song would you like to sing?"
Tenten cut me off before I could reply, "Have her sing If No One Will Listen, since it's her favorite!"
I glanced at the girl, and she smiled brightly, "Is that okay?"
I gave her a small smile and nodded, "Yes, that's f-fine."
Really, though, singing one of Tenten's songs in front of Tenten was something I'd never imagined being able to pull off. If there was ever a moment to push myself, it was now. The others nodded in unison, and Jiraiya started playing the song without any further conversation and without any sheet music in front of him.
I closed my eyes and took a deep breath to steady my nerves before letting the piano's notes relax me. A couple of online articles I'd read had said pretending you are alone at home sometimes helps calm nerves, so I did just that. I let myself get lost in the music and opened my mouth when it was time to start singing.
Maybe no one told you there is strength in your tears
and so you fight to keep from pouring out
but what if you unlock the gate that keeps your secret soul?
Do you think that there's enough that you might drown?
I kept my eyes closed as the chorus started, not wanting to chance a peek and accidentally make myself nervous.
If no one will listen if you decide to speak.
If no one's left standing after the bombs explode.
If no one wants to look at you for what you really are: I will be here still.
I opened my eyes and peered over at Jiraiya, who glanced at me studiously but kept playing the song. There was no noise from the others except the sound of Kakashi's pen moving against his paper, and I was too anxious that I would mess up if I risked turning to look at Tenten, whose song I could be butchering as we speak.
No one can tell you where you alone must go.
There's no telling what you'll find there.
And God I know the fear that eats away at your bones.
Screaming every step to just stay here.
If no one will listen if you decide to speak.
If no one is left standing after the bombs explode.
If no one wants to look at you for what you really are: I will be here still.
The song had an instrumental break, and Jiraiya played the notes perfectly before leading the song into its bridge.
If you find your fists are raw and red from beating yourself down.
If your legs have given out under the weight.
If you find that you've been settling for a world of gray so you wouldn't have to face down your own hate
After executing the bridge better than I thought I could, especially in front of these important people, Jiraiya led the song into its final chorus, where the singer is supposed to adventure a bit with the notes and show some of their skills.
If no one will listen if you decide to speak.
If no one is left standing after the bombs explode.
If no one wants to look at you for what you really are: I will be here still.
I will be here still.
After ending the final note, I let out a nervous breath and wiped my sweaty and shaking palms onto my dress before turning to face the three sitting to the side. All three were straight-faced, and Tenten even looked a little like she wanted to say something.
Before I could apologize for insulting her by not performing her song well, as I assumed that's what she wanted to speak about, she burst out in a jokingly angry voice, "How dare you waltz in here and show me up with my own damn song!"
After hearing her casual tone, I let out a relieved sigh, and the others in the room gave small laughs.
Tenten rose to her feet to stand next to me and wrapped an arm around my shoulders, being taller than me even before her high-heeled shoes, "Well, I don't care what all of you think; I love her, and I think she's a perfect fit."
Tsunade didn't smile or provide any comforting expressions but glared at me before barking out in a bossy voice, "I sure hope you can dance." I smiled back at her even though I wasn't sure if I could.
Jiraiya rose from the piano and sat beside Tsunade, "You definitely need some training, but I'd be delighted to have you as one of my students."
Kakashi quietly rose to his feet with a solemn expression, which made my heart drop. Tenten's grip on my shoulders tightened a bit. Kakashi stood before me for a moment.
I could almost physically feel the tension rising before he busted out with a brilliant grin, "You better be ready to work hard, Hinata Hyuuga, because you're in!"
CREATORS' THOUGHTS 
Hina5enpai
Hina5enpai The song mentioned in this chapter is: If No One Will Listen by Kelly Clarkson.
(The entire album this song is from is *Chef's Kiss*)
Thanks for reading!
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