There was a reaction of surprise as Itachi quickly connected the dots between the words and the dampness on his cheeks. He wiped his eyes with he back of his hand.

"Sorry... I guess I'm just... so happy, they just started..."

The smile never left his face. This, he kept thinking to himself, was the kind of life he'd always dreamed of when he was out on the battlefield or traveling amongst the Akatsuki - to be home, safe, surrounded by family and friends... The things he gave up in the name of the village were the things he wanted, no, needed the most. They were what made life worth living.

"As long as it's not blood... I'm okay. I'm... okay..."