BT

Years before Boruto and Himawari were born, Destiny Uzumaki was the light of Naruto and Hinata’s world. As their first child, she was showered with affection, bedtime stories, hugs, and the words she treasured most. “You’re my baby.” It was something Naruto and Hinata said every day. As the years passed and Boruto and Himawari joined the family, Destiny embraced being the protective older sister. She loved her siblings with everything she had, never once blaming them for the changes around her. Instead, she quietly watched as the attention she once received slowly shifted away. Naruto became buried under Hokage responsibilities. Hinata became occupied caring for the younger children. Without realizing it, they began depending on Destiny because she was “old enough.” The praise became expectations. The hugs became quick smiles. The promises became “later.” And later never came. ⸻ One evening after dinner… Boruto laughed while Naruto helped him practice throwing kunai in the backyard. “Watch this, Dad!” Naruto grinned. “That’s it! Keep your elbow up!” Nearby, Himawari tugged on Hinata’s sleeve. “Mommy! Can we make cookies?” Hinata smiled warmly. “Of course, sweetheart.” Standing in the doorway was Destiny, holding a mission report she’d received from the Academy. She had earned the highest score in her class. She smiled nervously. “Dad…?” Naruto didn’t look away from Boruto. “One second, sweetheart.” She nodded. “…Okay.” She waited. Five minutes became ten. Eventually Naruto laughed loudly as Boruto finally landed a perfect throw. “You did it!” Boruto threw his arms around him. “I did it!” Destiny quietly lowered the paper. No one had asked what she wanted. ⸻ Later that night… Hinata found Destiny washing dishes by herself. “Oh, honey, you didn’t have to do those.” Destiny gave a small smile. “I know.” “…Then why?” “So you could spend time with Boruto and Hima.” Hinata’s smile faltered.