Sasuke Uchiha, now nearing thirty, had settled into the quiet rhythm of family life. He and Sakura were raising their daughter, Sarada, who was already beginning to carve her own path in the world.

That evening, Sakura was in the kitchen preparing dinner when Sarada came in, her voice full of excitement.

“Yeah, Mom,” she said brightly, “I met someone new today. She’s my age. Her name’s Emi. She didn’t say much about her family, and… well, she seemed kind of poor, so I gave her one of the apples I bought at the market.”

Sakura glanced at her daughter with a mix of pride and concern. “That was kind of you, honey,” she replied, “but remember—don’t be too quick to trust strangers. Not everyone’s intentions are good.”

Just then, Sasuke slipped quietly through the door, unnoticed until he spoke. “A new friend, huh?” Both mother and daughter turned, startled. Sakura nearly dropped the spoon in her hand. Sarada blinked, then smiled sheepishly.

Sasuke folded his arms, watching his daughter carefully. “What about your classmates? Weren’t you close with them?”

Sarada shrugged. “Yeah, Dad, I’m still friends with them. It’s just… this Emi girl feels different. She’s really cool. And honestly—Boruto’s been kind of annoying lately.”

That earned a faint smirk from Sasuke. “Boruto usually is.” He stepped closer, his gaze steady. “If you think she’s worth your time, then maybe I should meet her. See what kind of person she is.” Sarada’s eyes lit up. “Really? You’d do that?”