Although it was only a warm steamed bun, to Haku, who had gone days without eating, it was the finest delicacy imaginable. Even so, he reluctantly broke it in half and saved one piece so he would have something to eat when hunger struck again.
Shin Uchiha saw Haku's little gesture perfectly clearly, but he only smiled and left him alone.
Time ticked by. Haku had long since finished his half of the bun and was now staring blankly at the fire. Though he sat some distance away, he could still feel its warmth, which brought considerable relief through his thin clothes.
Just then, Shin Uchiha, who had been sitting beside the fire, suddenly stood up. After adding a few branches to it, he picked up his bundle, apparently preparing to leave.
Huddled in the corner, Haku noticed the kind man's movements as well. He opened his mouth but said nothing, only watching helplessly as the good-hearted stranger he had met made to leave.
Shin Uchiha adjusted the bundle on his shoulder, glanced at Haku, and headed outside.
As the kind man left, Haku remained silent, but the light faded from his lovely eyes. He pulled his worn, thin clothes tighter around himself and stared dazedly at the still-burning fire.
Just then, Haku heard familiar footsteps drawing closer. He hurriedly raised his head to look outside, and a moment later, Shin Uchiha came into view.
As soon as he stepped into the room, Shin Uchiha stopped. Looking at Haku, who had raised his head to stare at him, he said casually:
"Hey, kid. Want to come with me? Be my subordinate?"
Haku, who had been hugging his knees, heard Shin Uchiha's words, and his eyes lit up. A delighted smile spread across his face as he immediately rose from the