Sasuke stood up, took out a kunai, and held it with solemn care.
"This kunai of Naruto's was what first changed my fate."
Adult Sasuke could see it clearly: a kunai engraved with a mark.
During their earlier conversation, Sasuke had mentioned that the Uchiha Clan's survivors in this timeline had been saved on the night of the massacre thanks to the Fourth Hokage, Minato Namikaze, and Kurama.
But by the same token, they could also be said to have been saved because of Naruto.
"This kunai doesn't just represent my gratitude. It also made me realize that if I want to protect something, I need strength."
Sasuke's gaze was gentle but resolute. "Back then, if it hadn't been the Fourth Hokage or Kurama who stopped that tragedy—if it had only been Naruto or me—even being prepared to die would have accomplished nothing..."
"And afterward, I watched that guy Naruto solve problems with extraordinary strength. Neji's Caged Bird Seal, capturing the Akatsuki, even these Chunin Ninja Exams..."
"He always sticks his nose into other people's business, and he has the power to do something about it."
Adult Sasuke listened and sighed. "...He's the same in my timeline. He might not have done as well as the Naruto here, but he's already done everything within his power."
"But unlike me now, the two of you always fight side by side against powerful enemies."
There seemed to be a trace of longing in Sasuke's voice. He turned his gaze to his other self and abruptly changed the subject. "You said you have a new family now, a daughter and a wife, right?"
"...Yes."
"Do you love them?"
The question seemed to catch Adult Sasuke off guard. He paused, seemingly intending to answer with silence as he had before.
But this time, Sasuke