Hi everyone. I hope you're well. Thank you so much for reading, liking and reviewing this story. I didn't have any plans on it being a big thing but I'm so glad people are enjoying it. I apologise if this chapter seems to start abruptly. I hope you enjoy it nevertheless.

Chapter 3: A Father's Thoughts

NARUTO is good at being Hokage. He knows he is. He spent his whole life wanting this and has spent a lot of time working hard to get it; today was just not a good day for him. He spent the whole morning being distracted and he needed people to repeat things because he wasn't paying attention or just didn't grasp what was being said. His mind keeps on going back to his home and Hinata and he can't help feeling like something isn't right. Last night was a bit of a shock to him. Of all the things he expected Hinata to say, asking to have another baby was nowhere on the list. Both Boruto and Himawari were happy surprises but he thought that after Himawari they were done. He has to admit the idea of having another baby sounds exciting. But babies are hard work and being a parent is like a full time job. When Boruto was born he and Hinata barely had any sleep with the diapers and the feeding and their own work. They barely left the house and took turns sleeping, eating and bathing. Hinata had decided on her own that she wouldn't be a shinobi anymore after Boruto but Naruto still felt guilty leaving her at home when he had missions. He knew how much of a handful Boruto was when they were both there, he couldn't imagine how Hinata did it when she was alone. Nevertheless they persisted and he put everything he could into being there for Boruto like a good father should.

Baby Boruto was easier to handle and much easier at forgiving Naruto's misgivings. All he had to do was buy the boy a toy and just show up and Boruto would be beaming. He was easier to please then and it lulled Naruto into a false sense of security. Now that Boruto was older Naruto realised how much goes into being a parent. He has to admit that having none makes it difficult because he has no one to model or even to learn from. He feels a slight pang to his heart at the thought of his own parents. It wasn't their fault and he knows it is better having known just how much they wanted him and loved him but it still hurts at times. He thinks he would have liked going to his father for advice with Boruto or just having his father be there in general. But it doesn't help dwelling on what he can't have.

All Naruto can do is focus on the now. And right now he knows he needs to work harder with his kids. It gutted him when Boruto said he hated him. The words came with such ferocity and force that Naruto felt physically attacked by it. Hinata explained that Boruto was just sad and lashing out and upon further inspection Naruto began to realise what that meant. But those words still stuck with him because it meant that his son felt so neglected and disappointed in his father that he could ever utter those words. He once remarked about how could he ever become Hokage if he couldn't save his friend and now he knows he can't keep being Hokage if he can't be there for the people he loves and who love him in return. e fHe

WHat

It isn't just Boruto that he needs to be better for. His daughter tries so hard to spare his feelings and the feelings of those around her that she would rather suffer in silence than let anyone think she was hurt. She reminds him so much of Hinata when she does things like that and it hurts him that the reason she may be suffering is because of him. He hated that he was late for her birthday. He barely saw her that morning and the thought that she went to bed without him properly wishing her was devastating. Boruto's harsh words put his world into perspective, which is why he couldn't understand why Hinata wanted another baby right now when they were all trying so hard to be a better family.

Maybe he was missing something? But he still feels like he made a solid case for why having a baby right now isn't the best thing. Maybe in a few years it would be a better option. Contrary to Boruto's earlier claims they weren't old and having a baby a few years later would still be okay for their age. At least that's what Naruto thinks.

But Hinata's expression yesterday didn't make sense. She seemed truly heartbroken when he said not now. He never realised she wanted another baby so badly. She never mentioned it before. Last night was the first time she even spoke about the topic. And this morning when he asked her if she was really okay she smiled and told him "yes, of course" and she "completely understands" but there was still sadness on her face and resignation in her voice and he knew his wife was lying to him. But he couldn't talk to her about it, not when his kids were about to have breakfast. So he simply kissed his wife goodbye and reassured her that he would be there for Hima's school festival later in the day, having nothing else he could say in the moment.

Naruto looks up from the small stack of papers in front of him to see Shikamaru make his way into the office. "Okay so you have two more meetings and then you can be done for the day. I tried to reschedule the last one but the guy was such a drag and I got tired of listening to him talk so you're just gonna have to do it," his advisor lectures as he walks further into the office.

"Shikamaru, can I ask you something?" Naruto contemplates disregarding the strategist's earlier comment. The man in question looks startled at the question and tone. He was also surprised Naruto didn't ask who the annoying guy was and what he did. Naruto did in fact know to whom he was referring to and dreads having to deal with the spoilt brat (man) later. The only reason he doesn't pry is because he has more important things to worry about.

Naruto realises he probably is coming across as very serious, a trait Naruto very rarely demonstrates. The blonde haired man spends a few seconds thinking about whether or not he should reveal his conversation with Hinata to his friend but almost immediately decides it is okay. He trusts Shikamaru and he knows the man would never betray that trust. He also knows that Shikamaru, despite pretending he doesn't care, is actually a good listener who gives sound advice. The man would never lie to him.

"Sure," Shikamaru replies in the most unsure tone ever, walking further into the room.

"Do you and Temari ever think about having more kids?" Naruto knows he should explain further, but the question was already out.

The surprise is palpable in the room, "Uh, I'm not really sure what you're asking…" he trails off. He furrows his brows in contemplation, "did Temari say something to you?"

Like Temari would ever talk to Naruto about things like that? In fact the Hokage was pretty certain that if Temari ever wanted anything she would demand it directly from her husband, no roundabouts necessary. Shikamaru looks like he is thinking the exact same thing because almost immediately he dismisses the question with a wave.

"Are you and Hinata thinking about having another baby?" Shikamaru tentatively questions as he sits on a chair on the other side of the desk.

Now Naruto is unsure whether to continue. He doesn't want to reveal intimate details of his marriage, especially a private conversation between him and his wife. But Naruto needs to talk to someone or he is going to drive himself up the wall with anxiety.

He leans back against his chair with a huff, "I don't know, to be honest. Hina kinda wants to have another baby, I think," he finishes lamely.

"Okay, that's a definitive answer," Shikamaru teases, sarcasm heavy in his voice.

His tone leads Naruto to raise both his hands to his hair where he anxiously runs his fingers through his hair, messing it up thoroughly. "I don't really know what to tell you. Hinata expressed … some … interest in having another baby."

"What about you?" His friend questions honestly, his face grave.

"What about me?" Naruto responds in confusion.

"Well, do you want another baby?" Shikamaru asks, leaning with his elbow on the desk.

The question catches him off guard for a few seconds. "I'm not unopposed to the idea. It's just … right now isn't the best time for us," and then to inject some lightness to this conversation he huffs, "I don't know if you know this but being Hokage is a lot of work and having a baby is also a lot of work."

"It's a totally drag, that's for sure," his friend agrees.

"Exactly! I mean I barely have time as it is and I'm doing my best not to screw up the kids I do have. Adding another to the mix seems like it would tip the scales; not in my favour, you know."

As much as Naruto tries to keep this conversation light, his mind is racing and he is suddenly standing up to pace the small area behind his chair, needing to say this, "I want to make Hinata happy but I have to fight to spend time with her as it is. A baby would mean even less time. Honestly, there aren't enough hours in the day. But I can't say I wouldn't want one. I love Hinata and I love being a dad and a husband as much – if not more – than being Hokage.

He licks his lips and lets out a breath, "I mean, being Hokage means being a good leader, being a part of history and I love that. But my wife and my kids, they are my legacy and I wouldn't be half as good at what I do without them, you know." That was the truth. Naruto knows he would have worked just as hard to become Hokage if he never got married or had any children. The thought of doing it all alone though; he couldn't stomach it. He was alone his whole life and sure he would have had the entire village and friends that loved him but it isn't the same as having someone to come home to. Hinata gave him so much though. She is his companion, the one person he never has to pretend with. He is so grateful for Hinata; she gave him a family and with them he never feels alone.

"Thanks for listening Shikamaru, I just think I need to talk to Hinata about this," he finishes off. His friend was not going to be able to solve this for him. The person that held all the answers was his wife. They just needed a little time to discuss this properly.

"I'm sorry I couldn't be of more help man." Shikamaru stands up and points a finger at Naruto, "but tell her, what you just told me. I am sure she will understand." He then walks to the door when a knock comes. Right, Naruto thinks, time to go back to work.

XOXO

IT'S ANOTHER THREE HOURS before he is able to leave his office and make his way to the academy for the market festival. It's being held at the open space at the back of the academy. When he gets there, the festival is still in full swing it seems, since the place looks pretty crowded. There's sections made up of multiple tables and each section is selling something different.

This is one of the ideas that were proposed to teach the children how to handle different kinds of tasks and the risks attached to them. It would teach them responsibility and work on their decision making skills.

As he walks into the festival children and adults alike greet him with smiles, waves and bows. Naruto politely returns the gesture. Most of the stalls are selling a different variety of foods, but there are some miscellaneous items. Naruto passes a flower table, where he purchases a sunflower bouquet for his daughter since she has a soft spot for them. It's a small bouquet but he knows Himawari would appreciate them anyway. The mother wanted to give him the bouquet for free but he vehemently refused, pushing the coins into her hand.

He finally gets to Himawari's table, which are just four small tables against each other. His wife is standing behind the table talking to another parent and Himawari is standing next to her, waiting eagerly to give their customer her cupcake. Boruto is a little off the side, holding a tray of coins. Naruto realises he is handling the money, when he hands Himawari a few coins to give the customer her change. He waits for the table to be cleared before he makes his way over.

Himawari spots him first and its only seconds before she has her arms wrapped around him. "Papa, you're here. You came," she sounds so happy that she hugs him again and Naruto just wants to pick her up but he resists the urge to baby his daughter in front of her entire class.

"Of course I came. Here you go pretty girl," he says as he hands over the bouquet of flowers and honestly her face lights up so much that you would think Naruto just gave her the sun.

"It's for me?" she asks in awe.

"Mmmhm," he nods his head, "do you like it?"

She holds it against her chest, "I love it."

He ruffles her hair with a smile and they walk the rest of the distance to the table. Himawari runs straight to her brother to show him her bouquet and Naruto walks straight to Hinata.. He then hands her a single red flower that he stole from Hima's bouquet, "for you my fair lady," he offers going into a slight bow. Hinata blushes and he loves it. It brings him so much joy that he is still able to make her blush to this day. He knows it's likely less from his affection and more from the fact that he is being affectionate in public. His arm instinctively goes around her waist as he places a gentle kiss to her cheek.

"It's a tulip," Hinata squeaks. "It's beautiful. Thank you." There's a split second of hesitation on her face before she rises on her toes and places a kiss on his cheek. "I'm so glad you made it, Boruto was starting to look sad," she whispers in secret knowing their son doesn't like admitting his feelings about his father to his father. Hinata unfortunately underestimated Boruto's distance and hearing because he lets out an undignified shriek, "no I wasn't!"

"Aww Bolt, did you miss me," Naruto teases good-naturedly. "I promise I didn't forget about you," Naruto continues and he reaches into his back pocket and produces a pretty blue flower that in the light of the sun matches Boruto sparkling blue eyes. Boruto splutters at the gesture, "ah are you crazy? I don't want your flowers. That's just weird."

Naruto smiles sheepishly and leaves the flower behind on the desk. He is saved from speaking when Hima asks, "do you want a cupcake Papa? It's very delicious," she finishes putting extra emphasis on the 'very.'

"I would love a cupcake!" he says excitedly as he watches his daughter retrieve a pink decorated cupcake from the container.

"I decorated this one just for you Papa," Hima appeals, with her tongue sticking out in concentration so she doesn't mess up the icing.

"It's looks amazing Hima. I can't wait to taste it." He then takes a big bite of the sugary goodness as everyone watches him. He makes a loud mmm sound because of his audience and says, "this was delicious. Your mum is the best baker ever!"

"Yep, mama is the bestest," Himawari agrees before holding out her hand, "that'll be 10 Ryo."

Hinata lets out a laugh and Naruto face is a portrait of shock, "I have to pay for it," Naruto whines, "but I'm the Hokage."

Himawari looks at Naruto with a stern look and with both hands on her hips, "Papa, you can't use Hokage to get free stuff. It's not right."

"Yes Dad," Boruto chimes in. "How can you say something like that? You should be ashamed of yourself," Boruto says in mock outrage.

"Alright, alright, that's enough," Naruto decides.

"That was for the flowers," Boruto whispers as Naruto hands his money over.

All in all, it was a good day. The festival went swimmingly and both his kids were happy. Hinata held his hand as they all walked home and acted as if everything was fine. But Naruto still got the distinct feeling that she wasn't being entirely honest with him. He decided he would talk to her when he got home. He had to … except he never got a chance to.

As soon as they got home Himawari rushed to put her flowers in a vase, Boruto went straight into his room and Hinata straight into the kitchen. It was a Friday and everyone was looking forward to the weekend. Naruto was now a part time weekend worker, making a deal with Shikamaru that he would work only a few hours on a Saturday and not work at all on a Sunday unless there was imminent danger to the village.

They ate dinner together and thereafter decided on a movie night. Himawari excitedly chose the movie for the night and they sat in the darkness of their living room, the only light coming from the television as they made themselves comfortable. He and Hinata took the double seat, Boruto sprawled himself on the single sofa, legs dangling off the side while Himawari made bed on the floor with a mountain of cushions. Naruto had to coax Hinata to shift closer to him on the sofa but once she was in his arms he felt her relax. He barely paid attention to the movie as he felt it was more interesting to watch his daughter's reaction and see his son try to inconspicuously wipe the corners of his eye at sentimental moments. Naruto just took the time to run his fingers through Hinata's hair and draw circles on her back in comfort. She fell asleep on his chest pretty early on in the movie so Naruto, with nothing better to do, elected to throw popcorn at his son during random intervals, knowing Bolt would not yell at him for fear of waking Hinata up. Eventually the movie came to an end, "Alright kids, brush your teeth and get into your PJs," he orders, "I'll put mama to bed and come say goodnight."

He gingerly picks up Hinata, placing one arm around his neck and makes his way to their bed room. He then carefully puts her down on her side of the bed and brushes a few strands from her face. She looks tired, absolutely beautiful, but tired. He makes a mental note to ask her if she has been taking on too many tasks again to busy herself, and then he makes another mental note to talk to her properly about their previous conversation regarding babies. There must have been a reason she brought it up and if she really did want to have another baby the least he could do is listen to what she has to say, instead of simply cutting her off with a blanket NO. He nods his head in resolve and then makes his way out of the bedroom, to tell his kids goodnight. He will have time tomorrow to sort everything out.

XOXO

So what did you think? I promise the reveal is going to happen very soon. I just wanted to give a bit of insight into Naruto's head and delve into what he is thinking and experiencing. When this idea came to me it was only up to the reveal and I had no plans to make it into a big fic but people seem to be liking it and I have been liking writing it so I will flesh this story out a bit more. If you have any ideas or requests please let me know. It will really help give me ideas on the direction I can take this story. Thanks for reading and have a good weekend :)