[No one else had ever been like him when he was young. They were all very different children. Even Naruto, who experienced somewhat similar emotions had other circumstances for them.

Ex-Team 7 Sasuke would have never been able to see himself with the eyes Sasuke is using to see Nico now.

His face doesn't really change even with the news, and it would take someone who knew a great deal of how to read him to see the softness of understanding at the edges of him. He thinks about their children. This isn't something their children know, and he hopes it's not something their children will ever know.

It would make her stronger, but Sarada shouldn't have to feel this kind of suffering to be a better person, he thinks, a person who can lead and protect people. The suffering he and Nico have felt. Appreciated, strangely, but unnecessary.]

It's painful. I know. [He wouldn't have wanted anyone to tell him it would get better. It never did.] Sometimes, it doesn't seem as if it will ever end. Sometimes, it doesn't.

Don't let what's hurting you make you believe you're alone. The worst thing you can do for your friends is keep them from being there for you when you need them most.

[Sounds almost like he's speaking from experience.]