Date Created: June 21, 2015
Date Published: June 14, 2015
Author's Note [1]: Thank you, Loopy!
Summary: In which, the younger brother of the First Hokage thinks of his relationship with the cousin of the Ghost of the Uchiha.
Disclaimer: Naruto and characters (c) Masashi Kishimoto
The One Who Was Loved | o14
Senju Tobirama was a calm and logical man, but when he heard his sister-in-law crying that she was going into labor caused him to panic. He thought he had prepared himself for it, but he supposed he had not because his nephew was due two weeks and four days early.
Worse of all was after the birth because he was offered to hold the baby in his arms. The child was puny and wrinkled and red. No distinct features from either family side were noticeable. His hair was none; his eyes were shut tightly; his nose was pudgy; and his lips were barely visible with all the wrinkles. The only distinguishable aspect of the child was that he looked awfully similar to a newborn rat.
It is no hard task, my beloved brother, Hashirama urged.
I cannot. I want no harm done on my nephew.
Hashirama pushed his son to Tobirama, and by reflex he moved his arms to support the bundle. The older brother removed his arms gently, as Tobirama felt the cold sweat on his neck glide to his back. Tobirama moved a finger to push aside the cloth from his nephew's face.
The baby adjusted and caused Tobirama's heart to pound. His chubby fingers moved around and managed to grab hold of his uncle's long finger. He stopped moving and continued to sleep.
My nephew, Tobirama spoke softly. You are such a little thing that I am afraid and nervous to hold you in my arms, yet you seem so calm and fine in my large hands.
Mito and Hashirama looked to one another before turning to face the uncle. He sat on her bedside, and she tiredly rested her head against his arm.
Otouto, Hashirama began. We have decided for you to be the godfather of our son.
That is impossible, Brother.
Why is that so?
I cannot care for something so small that carries an enormous responsibility.
You doubt too much, my dearest brother.