It's been a few days since we got our own house.
When the ANBU arrived at the orphanage with the Hokage's seal, the matron turned pale, just for a moment. But when she realized what it meant, she thanked the ANBU like he had rescued her from a curse. Like we were the curse.
Naruto and I packed our bags. Not that we had much — a few clothes, some daily necessities.
Naruto was sad.
No one came to say goodbye.
When we arrived at our new home, Naruto's eyes lit up. He laughed, spun around in the hallway, and shouted, "Wow, it's our house!"
I felt... nothing.
But at least we were away from their eyes. Their whispers.
The house wasn't big. One bedroom with two beds, a small kitchen, and a bare hall. But it was enough. Enough to breathe. Enough to be ourselves.
The ANBU handed us some money before leaving. Not much, but enough to keep us fed.
The Hokage himself came to visit that evening. He didn't mention what happened. Didn't bring up the "incidents" or the matron's reports. He just asked if we were okay. If we needed anything.
Naruto beamed, practically bouncing on his feet.
I gave a small nod. A small smile.
Since then, life has felt quieter.
Lighter.
Almost like peace.
---
Naruto's POV
We have our own home.
I'm so happy now, the matron won't be able to punish us anymore!
But... why do they hate us so much?
We didn't hurt anyone.
I tried to talk to them, to make friends.
But they just laughed, mocked me... called me and Johan monsters, beasts, and worse.
But I know we're not.
Johan said not to mind them.
Yeah, he's right. He's always right.
And Johan's a genius!
He cooks food for us — real food, and it tastes so good. I don't know where he learned it... but honestly, I don't care. I love it.
Johan doesn't talk much.
But I know he cares about me.
When those guys bullied me, I know Johan did something.
But... how?
I don't know.
Sometimes I think I'm not as smart as Johan.
Nahh — must be my imagination! Hahaha!
But... sometimes it feels like I don't understand him at all.
Like there's something about him I can't see.
Still, he's my brother.
And I love him the most.