[ Kakashi wants to tell Naruto that he's wrong, that it shouldn't have been anyone, but he understands far too well why Naruto would believe something like that, if only because he feels the exact same way.

He has to be strong for Naruto, though. Has to be strong for them both, so he does what he does best.

He smiles.

Lets his eye curl up as he reaches a hand out and gently gives Naruto's shoulder a squeeze. ]

Don't worry, Naruto. He'll be back soon.

[ Lies right between his teeth.

He doesn't know if Minato will ever return -- Gai certainly didn't, and neither did Iruka or Anko or Asuma. For all he knows, Minato might be gone for good, or at least for a very long time. But at least, as long as Naruto has hope, that's what counts. ]

Do you really think he would just leave you and your mother here all alone? I'm sure he'll find a way back somehow.

[ He's not sure how much he's saying this because he needs to hear it too, and how much he actually believes. ]