Originally, the Third had planned to arrange a secure, safe place for Karin to stay.
Perhaps he would have a trustworthy woman from one of the clans look after her, or put her in a relatively private guest room and immediately assign ANBU or reliable ninja to protect her from the shadows.
After all, Karin's identity was sensitive, and she had only just escaped danger. She needed proper reassurance and a period of observation away from others, both to prevent Kusagakure from causing further trouble and to keep her sudden arrival in an unfamiliar place from making her even more anxious.
Yet when the Third gently tried to suggest this arrangement, Karin reacted with unexpected intensity.
Like a frightened little animal, she gripped Naruto's hand even harder, her small, thin body hiding almost entirely behind him. Only part of her face remained visible, along with eyes filled with terror and resistance.
She shook her head desperately, her lips pressed tight. Though she said nothing, her stance made everything clear.
She would not go anywhere. She only wanted to stay with Naruto.
Feeling her fear and dependence, Naruto immediately spoke up. "Grandpa Third, Karin just got here. Konoha is still completely unfamiliar to her.
Let her stay with me for now. My place may be small, but it's safe, and Uncle Inoichi is there too.
I'll take good care of her."
Watching Karin's complete dependence on Naruto, almost like a hatchling imprinting on someone, and the unquestionable protectiveness in Naruto's eyes, Hiruzen Sarutobi sighed inwardly.
He understood that, for a child who had grown up surrounded by malice and abuse, this boy who had been the first to offer her a helping hand-and shared her clan name-was now her only emotional support and source of security.
Forcing them apart would likely