A brief encounter
Minato consciously chose a detour on his way home, pausing briefly at the cemetery to honor Kushina. He longed for a moment of silence to calm himself, especially in the face of the raging Kyuubi chakra within him that he needed to control. Despite his anger, he decided against a quick return home to ensure that his emotions wouldn't affect the two boys.
When Danzo indirectly threatened him, Minato felt the surging anger within him. He realized that the warning he received was linked to Danzo. Minato was aware of the importance of not underestimating him. Danzo was willing to cross boundaries, and neither Naruto nor Kakashi were safe from him. Minato couldn't allow that.
Quiet doubts began to sprout in Minato as he contemplated carrying out his plans. These very plans could enrage Danzo and thus put his family in danger. Yet Minato quickly banished these thoughts from his mind. His resolve was firm to push forward with his plans. He was determined and convinced that Danzo couldn't continue unchecked.
As he set out on the journey home, Minato felt a sense of calm spreading within him. He longed to be with Kakashi and Naruto and no longer leave them alone. As he turned down a street, a familiar voice pierced the air: "Minato!?"
Minato immediately turned around, his eyes widening briefly. "Mikoto!" he called out, greeting her. She hurried towards him, a small child in her arms who must have been about Naruto's age. The boy's curious gaze met Minato's, who smiled warmly at him. "What brings you here?" he asked her.
With a gentle smile, she stepped forward to Minato, adjusting the little boy in her arms. "I was just on my way to the cemetery to bring Kushina her favorite flowers," she explained, gesturing to a bag on her arm. "Then I saw you walking along the street here, and I just wanted to make sure..." She paused briefly before continuing. "So it's true, you're back."
Minato nodded with a warm smile. "Yes, indeed I am," he confirmed, then turned his gaze to the boy. "So, this is your son. Sorry to ask again, but what was his name?"
Mikoto chuckled softly. "This is Sasuke," she replied kindly, before her expression turned serious again. "Kushina hasn't returned, has she?" Minato looked at her sadly, took a deep breath, and shook his head. "I understand, I'm sorry, Minato!"
"It's okay, I have Naruto with me, that helps," Minato confessed with a sad smile. "He reminds me of her."
Mikoto looked down at Sasuke for a moment, then back at Minato. "I wish I could have done something for Naruto. I'm sorry, Minato. I disappointed Kushina by abandoning your son."
For a moment, silence hung between them, then Minato gently placed a hand on her shoulder. "Don't blame yourself," he said gently. "I know the past year hasn't been easy for you and the Uchiha clan. But don't worry, I'll take care of Naruto." His voice was calm as he gave her a reassuring smile.
Mikoto looked at him surprised. "What do you plan to do?"
"I don't want to reveal too much yet, but I'll do my best," Minato explained mysteriously.
"I understand," she murmured. "I really must be going now, but if you ever need help with Naruto, let me know. Maybe the two boys can play together sometime," she suggested with a warm smile.
A beam lit up Minato's face, and he nodded at her with a broad grin. "I'd love that, I'll keep that in mind. Thank you! I wish you a wonderful day!"
Mikoto's smile radiated as she turned away. "I wish you the same. Until next time!"
Minato also turned away and continued on his way home. His thoughts drifted again to his plans and the concern for his family.