Naruko followed Mikoto into the living room and sat down in the guest seat. She held herself properly, but her expression was lively.
"Mother's doing great! It's just her temper... Well, as Father puts it, 'The sun's as dazzling as ever.'"
She stuck out her tongue and pulled a playful face. "She's always complaining that I'm not ladylike, that I run around all day and I'm wilder than the boys. She's always saying..."
She mimicked her mother Kushina's familiar tone, equal parts fiery and loving, to perfection. "'Aaargh! If only I'd had a boy! At least boys can take a few knocks! This little brat is driving me crazy!'"
"Pfft—" Mikoto covered her mouth, unable to hold back a laugh. It was full of fond memories and recognition. "Kushina hasn't changed a bit. She's still bursting with energy."
She shook her head and looked at Naruko fondly. "But you're so clever and sweet, Naruko, and so thoughtful. Your mother must be prouder of you than you know."
"At school, please spend more time with our Sasuke. He gets caught up in his own thoughts sometimes and doesn't mix well with others. Help bring him out of his shell."
As she spoke, she looked toward Sasuke. He sat to one side, seemingly still lost in thoughts of their hands touching earlier, his ears faintly red. Her voice held a mother's gentle worry and trust.
Hearing his mother mention him, Sasuke snapped back to himself. He met Mikoto's smiling eyes, then Naruko's amused gaze, and his face grew hotter. His lips moved, but in the end he only mumbled, "Mm," before quickly lowering his head again. He stared at the pattern on the Tatami as though it might reveal something fascinating.
Just then, someone lifted the curtain leading to the inner rooms.