Gaara's mask had slipped in his preoccupation with Kankuro's unfortunate new teammates, so his reaction to the mention of their father was open, immediate, and damning. Her second reason was far more acceptable, and he paused to consider it instead of lashing out. The stopper on his gourd stopped its quiet rattling.

"That man has no idea of what's best for us." For me, he almost said, but that was the younger, petulant Gaara talking. "Whatever. Don't let them slow you down."