Embers of the Heart

Chapter 9: New Beginnings

INT. UCHIHA MANSION – THIRD GUEST ROOM – EARLY MORNING

The sky outside was still dark, the first hints of dawn only just beginning to light the horizon. Inside the guest room, Hinata lay awake, her eyes fixed on the ceiling, her mind restless with worry. Beside her, Sakura was curled up against her, the weight of the previous day's events evident in her tear-streaked face.

Hinata's thoughts were interrupted by the sound of footsteps approaching. Itachi emerged from his room, his face set in a serious expression as he walked down the hallway. When he reached the guest room, he paused, taking in the sight of Sakura clinging to Hinata.

He gently pushed the door open and stepped inside, his concern palpable. **"Hinata, what's going on? Why is Sakura like this?"

Hinata slowly extricated herself from Sakura's grasp, trying to keep her voice steady. **"Sakura is mentally exhausted, Itachi. She's been through so much... I think we need to do something to help her."

Itachi's eyes softened with concern. **"What happened?"

Hinata hesitated, her voice uncertain. **"It's been a lot... the divorce, the confrontation with Sasuke, everything. I don't know how to make it better, but we need to try."

Itachi nodded, his expression serious. **"We'll figure it out."

INT. UCHIHA MANSION – KITCHEN – MORNING

Itachi and Hinata sat at the kitchen table, eating a quiet breakfast. The atmosphere was subdued, the normal cheer of the kitchen replaced with a heavy silence.

A knock at the door broke the stillness, and Hinata stood up to answer it. She opened the door to find Naruto standing there, his face showing a mix of weariness and determination.

Naruto: (tentatively) "Hinata... Can I talk to you?"

Hinata nodded and stepped aside, allowing him to enter. Naruto looked around, his gaze settling on Hinata.

Naruto: (earnestly) "I was wondering if I could take care of Boruto for the next few days. I know it's sudden, but... I want to make things right. I see now how important family is."

Hinata studied him for a moment before nodding. **"I accept. I forgive you, Naruto. I saw it coming, and I can see that you truly care for your family."

Naruto's eyes softened with gratitude. **"Thank you, Hinata. It means a lot."

Hinata: "Is Sasuke interested in seeing Sarada?"

Naruto shook his head, his expression sad. **"No. He's made it clear he doesn't want to be involved."

Hinata sighed but remained calm. She turned to wake Boruto, who, upon hearing the news, was excited to spend time with his father. After a brief but happy goodbye, Boruto and Naruto left for their own home.

INT. UCHIHA MANSION – LIVING ROOM – MORNING

Hinata returned to find Itachi preparing to leave for the day. His expression was a mix of determination and concern.

Hinata: (hesitantly) "Itachi, could you... do something for Sakura? Maybe take her out or distract her? She really needs to feel better."

Itachi's eyes met hers, and he nodded. **"I understand. With Sasuke out of the picture, I've decided to take on the role of a father figure for Sarada. I want to make sure she has what she needs."

Hinata's face softened with gratitude. **"Thank you, Itachi. I know it means a lot to both of us."

Itachi offered her a reassuring smile before heading toward the door. **"I'll do my best."

As Itachi left, Hinata stood by the door, her heart heavy but hopeful. The mansion felt quieter now, but there was a sense of a new beginning, a chance to rebuild and heal.

She turned back toward the guest room, ready to face the challenges ahead, determined to help her friend find her way again.

End of Chapter 9.