An awkward silence filled the orphanage director's office. The elderly woman directed a seemingly sweet gaze toward the reddish-brown-haired girl, but Mei knew better.
Those eyes were threatening, "do as you're told, you little brat," increasing the tension in the area due to Mei's indifference.
To one side, a couple smiled awkwardly at the situation.
Once again, Mei Terumi had caught the attention of an adopting couple due to her unusually beautiful appearance and distinctive hair.
It was no surprise that prospective parents would focus on a child's attractiveness. It was normal for humans to be drawn to things considered beautiful.
Adding that to Mei's good behavior, responsibility, and almost adult manners, she was the jackpot for any couple.
—Sweetheart... This nice couple just wants to offer you a home. Delicious food, lots of toys, and sweets. They will take care of you much better than we ever could— the older woman cooed, trying to convince Mei.
Typical manipulation directed at an infant who doesn't know what's best for them. Unfortunately, that was not the case for Mei.
She turned toward the couple, who gave her encouraging looks and reassuring smiles. Then she spoke.
—Can I talk to them alone?
—Of course, dear. I'm going to check on some things— the woman said, getting up and leaving the office. The couple looked at each other, curious about what the girl wanted to discuss with them.
It was unusual for a four-year-old to ask for something like that. Almost unheard of. Why would a child want to be alone with people they didn't know?
—What do you want to know, little one?— the prospective adoptive mother asked. Mei grew serious, crossing her arms and slightly widening her stance in a posture that radiated authority and superiority.
In the adults' eyes, it looked like one of the cutest things they had ever seen.
—I want to make a deal with you— the incarnation of the Fifth Mizukage replied.
The couple raised an eyebrow in confusion.
—I can agree to go with you. As you must have been informed, I am not like the other children. I don't like to play with toys, so I won't ask you for that. I am not a fan of sweets, nor am I picky about things.
I can clean, wash dishes and clothes. To a certain extent, I know how to cook, and I also learn fast— the girl enumerated, surprising the couple again.
—But, I will not go alone. If you adopt me, you must adopt my brother, Tetsumaru— she laid out her conditions, leaving the couple thoughtful.
They looked at each other, the disappointment in their eyes easy for Mei to detect. She didn't care too much if they were adopted or not. Either they went together, or they didn't go at all—it was that simple.
—Uh, little Mei, that would be complicated. I'm sure your brother would want you to find a home. Sooner or later, he'll find a family too, and you both can continue to see each other in the future— the man spoke in a conciliatory tone.
Mei shook her head, her expression as unmoving as her decision. She decided to offer the final part of her condition.
—If I don't go with him, then I must refuse. But keep this in mind: You would not be adopting another child as such. Tetsumaru can find jobs on the street and so can I, if necessary. We do not need you to support us with everything that entails. I just want you to offer him a roof and a bed to sleep under, preferably next to mine. He can manage the rest on his own— she explained.
The couple were speechless at Mei's declaration. A child who doesn't need food or clothing and just wants a roof to sleep under? All because she doesn't want to be separated from her brother?
It was hard to believe. However, she spoke with certainty, with politeness. She didn't stammer once, and her gaze never dropped. She was not begging not to be separated from her brother. She was stating a fact.
What did that say about this child's composure and maturity?
—I see... Little Mei, would you mind letting us talk it over for a moment?— the pink-haired woman said. Mei nodded and left the room, waiting on the other side of the door with a bored expression.
Inside the office, the couple conversed seriously.
—I'm not sure, dear. One child is a huge responsibility, but two...— the black-haired man began, but the woman stopped him with a gesture of her hand.
—I know it's not easy, my love. But consider the girl. Did you see how self-assured she is? Can a child even talk like that?
The man thought about it for a moment. Frankly, it didn't feel like he was talking to a child. It was more like a negotiation.
—Do you think she's some kind of genius?— he asked. The woman nodded with an excited smile.
—What do you say we talk to the boy? At least we can meet him— the woman suggested.
A few minutes later, Tetsumaru entered the office where the interested couple, the director, and his other half were.
What caught the couple's attention was the boy's black sclera, and his golden eyes contrasting with the dark frame. His gaze was serene and somewhat intimidating. Just like the girl, or even more so, he gave off an air of confidence, of indifference. A single glance convinced the couple that, in fact, the boy was like his sister:
A potential genius. Solid character, strong will. If the reports given by the director herself were anything to go by, these two siblings were outside the norm for children their age.
They introduced themselves to each other, the boy of few words only letting out a couple of phrases—simple nods, confirmations, or denials. He seemed like the type who wouldn't be a bother at home, nor throw tantrums or cause problems in general.
After some private deliberation, the couple confirmed they would adopt the siblings.
Curiously, neither Mei nor Tetsumaru knew the names of their new parents, so the shock was gigantic when the woman knelt in front of Mei and placed a hand on her head.
—A pleasure doing business with you, Mei-Chan. I'm Sakura, and this here is Sasuke. But you can call us Mom and Dad, alright?— she said with a warm smile.