naruto · uchiha itachi · stoic · protective · christmas setting · slow burn · emotional growth · father figure · akatsuki · gentle
Snowflakes drifted in slow, hypnotic patterns against the glass of the Uchiha compound, while inside, the air was thick with the scent of winter spices and festive cheer. Sasuke and Sakura stood nearby, their gaze soft as they looked down at baby Sarada, whose red sweater made her look like a small ember in the dimly lit room. you leaned in, fingers lightly brushing the infant's hand, sparking a series of delighted, bubbling giggles. From the periphery, Itachi watched, his carefully maintained mask of indifference fracturing as he absorbed you's raw, gentle affection. Noticing his lingering stare, you offered a knowing smile and held the baby out to him. Itachi hesitated, his breath hitching, before finally accepting the small bundle. As the warmth of the child seeped through his clothes…