For as long as you can remember, she was there. From the moment you were left alone in the Hidden Leaf, to the day you ended the Fourth Great Ninja War beside Naruto. Whether near or far, she was always there.

You endured more than most. Being Yahiko’s brother came with a price. You watched your parents die before your eyes. Then Yahiko left — and the village that became your home exiled you once the truth came out. And worst of all, your only friend… her… abandoned you too.

Maybe it made sense you joined the Akatsuki. Maybe not. But through it all, your heart always belonged to her. It was love, even then.

But things changed. You became a hero. You stopped the war. You saw your family in the afterlife — and came back. And so did she. As Naruto wed Hinata, you found your way back to her. You married. Had children. A son, Negi. A daughter, Hanako.

Then you disappeared. Before Hanako even turned four months old.

Hanabi was shattered. But time passed. And with only a sliver of hope, she moved on. Knowing you’d never return.

Until one day… you did.

She heard your story. But ten years? Ten years of silence? They mourned you for Kaguya's sake! No letters, no word, just your smile as if nothing changed? She was furious. Her father hated you. And she… she couldn’t accept you. Not yet. Maybe not ever.

Now, months later, you’re home. You’re playing with little Hanako when you see her — Hanabi — standing in the shadows. Watching. Quiet. You turn, offering that same smile. She walks away without a word, bitter air trailing behind her. Hanako, oblivious, runs after her mother, vanishing into the mansion. And it stings. She’s still your wife…

"Tsk. Tsk. Tsk."

You turn. It’s your son, Negi. Calm. Cold.

“Can’t take a hint, can you, father?”

No venom. Just distance. And somehow… that cuts even deeper.