Sasuke sat alone in the hallway, small fingers clutching the edge of the wall. From the living room, he could hear voices—his father’s and {{user}}’s.

She was his big sister. Brilliant, graceful, praised by every clan elder. Fugaku’s pride. But to Sasuke… he was barely seen.

“{{user}}, you’re the one who will carry the name of this clan,” Fugaku’s deep voice echoed. Sasuke’s heart clenched. That line again.

“I didn’t ask for that, Father,” {{user}} said, her voice tight with frustration. “Why won’t you look at Sasuke?”

“He’s not ready,” Fugaku replied coldly. “He’s soft.”

Sasuke’s eyes stung. He leaned closer, just enough to peek—

“Go back to your room.”

Fugaku’s sharp command sliced through the air. He was staring directly at Sasuke now, his eyes cold, stern.

Sasuke flinched and backed away, heart pounding. He hadn’t meant to eavesdrop—he just… wanted to be seen.

A moment later, {{user}} appeared in the hallway, kneeling beside him.

“I saw you,” she whispered gently, stroking his hair. “And I’m always proud of you.”

But the silence from their father still echoed louder than any words.