Hands in His Pockets (Please Subscribe)

"Mom, I'm home!"

As evening fell, Naruto, riding high after his cheat-like power-up, swung his arms and floated home, the very picture of a man basking in the spring breeze.

"Mom?"

Naruto took out his key and opened the door, only to find no shoes in the entryway.

Had Mom gone on a mission?

Naruto changed his shoes dejectedly and went inside. After turning on the lights, he found the living room empty.

Mom's not home, and Dad won't be back from work until eight or nine. Does that mean I have to eat instant noodles tonight? That's so sad... At least I've got two hands and two feet.

Naruto hurried to his parents' bedroom and, after a thorough search, dug up a pile of cash.

He wondered if it was Dad's secret stash.

Naruto stuffed the money into his pocket and hummed a little tune as he dashed downstairs. Ichiraku Ramen tonight!

Elsewhere.

After returning from the Naka River, Sasuke had locked himself in his room. He didn't come out until dinnertime, when Mikoto Uchiha called him.

"Mom, I'm not hungry." Sasuke's eyes were bloodshot, and he looked as listless as a wilted little purple flower.

"You still need to eat dinner, even if you're not hungry. Otherwise, your stomach will feel awful."

Mikoto Uchiha led Sasuke into the living room and served him a bowl of rice.

Fugaku Uchiha sat at the head of the table, slowly enjoying the food. Without looking up, he asked, "Are you in a bad mood because of Itachi?"

Sasuke lowered his head. "Isn't my brother coming home for dinner?"

"Sasuke, Itachi left the village on a mission. He definitely won't be back tonight," Mikoto Uchiha said with a smile.

He's not coming back.

Big Brother isn't coming home tonight...

Was he—was