update - When Everything Changed - part XIII
When Everything Changed - part XIII
Chapter Rating: T
Words: 4,604
A/N: I've been absent lately for some personal reasons. I was nearly done with this chapter when something happened and I decided to change how the end of this chapter played out. I think about one more installment and this will be done. Thanks for reading and I hope you like this one.
- Part XIII -
Three days later, Kakashi entered Sakura's room with quiet steps. He closed the door behind him with barely a sound and left the lights off; he figured she needed the rest still. Tsunade had cleaned her up well and looking at her against the pristine sheets of the hospital bed, she looked perfectly healthy and normal. The bandage around her left wrist was the only visual reminder of what had transpired, but it'd be hard to ever forget.
He felt heavy as he sank into the chair beside her. Looking over her serene face, he brushed some hair away from her eyes and let out a sigh. "You're always asleep when I visit."
He missed the way her brows knit together as he was focused on her arm, deliberating on whether or not he should touch her. He chose to smooth his knuckles down her forearm, turning his hand over to let his fingers skim across hers.
A small moan caused his gaze to snap towards her face. She pulled a face and opened her eyes, blinking them a couple times before frowning at him. "Why don't you visit when I have people poking at me and keeping me awake? Instead you come during the few hours I can actually sleep..."
He let out a tiny chuckle and turned his face down to hide his grin as if she could see through his mask. "Sorry."
She yawned and moved her hand over his, squeezing his fingers. "Was I really out for a whole day and a half?"
He nodded "Two if you count the return trip home."
She hummed to herself before bringing her hands up to inspect her fingers. She scratched absently at the bandage around her wrist. "Tsunade waited barely long enough for me to gain consciousness before yelling at me."
A slight sense of mirth coated his words. "Yeah, we heard."
She groaned. "She said I was lucky that I didn't do any permanent damage."
"You still shouldn't have done that. I had it under control; I had a plan."
"It was a stupid plan!" Sakura snapped. "What did I tell you that day in the forest, when we were on the way back to the clinic?"
Kakashi averted his gaze, looking down at his hand on her bedside. "I know," he admitted in a quiet voice.
"Then why do you keep insisting on dying for me?"
"Sakura-"
"I know that war has taken something from all of us, but has it really made death such an appeasing aspect to you?"
"I just wanted to protect you." His voice was coming thick. "I saw my opportunity to do so close faster and faster. I couldn't bear being the reason for someone else I cared about to lose their life. I just-"
"Kakashi," she interrupted with a sigh and reached over to him. He took her hand and she pulled it closer to herself. "Still warm," she murmured before lacing their fingers together. "Kiku played dirty, but we've all got a bit of darkness inside us, don't we?"
"You were conscious for all of that?"
She nodded, holding his gaze. "The path we've chosen isn't an easy one, and no matter how superior some others see us, at the end of it all we're just human. I won't say anything to anyone-"
"I know you won't," he butted in. "And I'm really grateful for that."
"But what she was talking about... what happened exactly?"
Kakashi could feel his body tighten up. His thoughts immediately went racing to the medic he had grown up with. That was a story he had wanted to take to the grave with him, and he wasn't sure if he could share such a traumatic event with Sakura. "The medic she mentioned was a member of my team-"
"I've seen the picture," Sakura interjected. "I mean, I know you wouldn't kill someone without cause. Kiku seemed convinced that you killed Shintaro over something small, but I know you better than that."
He relaxed a bit, feeling relieved that she wasn't talking about Rin - and guilty for assuming she had been. But comforted, he leaned forward and rested his elbow on her bed. "I did come across him in the reserves, but he wasn't just filing; he was stealing documents. I caught him red-handed and he put up a fight when I went to secure him to take him in. He had every intention to kill me and in the end I did what I had to."
"Who knows what could have happened if he hadn't been found out," she mumbled.
Kakashi shrugged a little. "When his belongings were searched a half-written coded letter was found with locations of our bases along the border. It could've been really bad."
Sakura seemed to sink into her bed a little. "And Kiku never knew the truth about him. She believed in him until the very end... maybe it was a good thing she didn't know who he was."
"Are you kidding me? She kidnapped you and almost killed you just out of revenge for what she thought was true."
"But her biggest regret was that he never knew she loved him. That's far easier than feeling betrayed by someone you love, than the disappointment in that person for being able to do such a thing. It may be naive, but at least she went out thinking it was all for love."
Kakashi looked at her in silence, unaware of how his thumb began to trace light, tiny circles on the inside of her bandaged wrist. "It's all over now, Sakura."
Her hold flexed and tightened in his. "Yeah, I'm glad to be back home... with you."
Neither of them could quite understand it, but they could both feel it - the warmth that grew where their hands met, the subtle rising of fine hairs, the anticipation of something encroaching upon them making stomachs clench, and hearts flutter, and breath hitch and heighten. It was as if every confession, and touch, and discovery all began to settle in at once because now they were home - together - and it had never felt so good.
The door to her room flew open and the lights were flicked on as their guest stomped into the room, effectively destroying whatever was building between them just then.
A finger boldly pointed at Kakashi's face as he straightened to look up the stiff arm. "Hey, Kaka-sensei, you can't let Sakura get hurt like that again!"
The masked nin pointed to himself in question and then turned to Sakura. The medic growled and threw a punch into the blond's arm. "Naruto! He can't control me."
"You heard the woman," Kakashi agreed.
"I did it all myself," she continued.
Naruto huffed and crossed his arms. "Yeah, but he was there to keep stuff like that from happening in the first place."
"Not everything always goes as planned or do I have to remind you about your first jounin mission?"
Naruto promptly turned green and uncrossed his arms, raising one to scratch at the back of his head nervously as he looked to be fighting down a squirm. "Hey, you promised! I don't ever want to think about that again..."
She grinned wickedly and Kakashi decided that he may have to get that story out of Sakura later. The rosette grabbed Naruto by the arm and pulled him to sit down on the edge of the bed. "Okay, so just drop the whole thing and let's spend some time together. Ever since you started your new training the three of us hardly get to be together."
Whiskered cheeks puffed up with a grin as Naruto murmured, "And even then we're usually visiting Kaka-sensei in the hospital."
"I think we've shared more food here than anywhere else."
"You do know I'm right here," Kakashi deadpanned.
Naruto and Sakura looked to each other before breaking out into laughter. Kakashi sighed, but was smiling beneath the mask. Even under the circumstances it was nice being with them, hearing them laugh, and seeing how their eyes lit up. Kakashi was right here, and there wasn't anywhere else he wanted to be.
.xXx.
It was another two days before Sakura saw Kakashi again, and she was excited because she was being released - with strict orders from Tsunade to get rest and limit her chakra use.
She had changed out of the horribly drab and drafty hospital gown and she felt more normal as she tied her hitai-ate in place. She had just finished packing up her toiletries in her bag when there was a light knock on the door before it opened just a crack.
"May I come in?"
She grinned as she grabbed the zipper. "Yeah, come on in."
Her smile grew as she heard the door open fully and she pulled her bag closed. "You are right on time to walk me home."
When she turned around to face him, she was shocked to see that he was in full jounin garb, a pack strapped to his back. She couldn't prevent her smile from slipping. "You can't be..."
"I'm leading a cell to back up Gai and his team. We shouldn't be gone too long."
"But... but there's so much-"
He surprised her again when he stepped closer, his gloved hand cupping her cheek. "I know."
She closed her eyes, giving in to his touch for however long she could. "Please, be careful."
"I will."
Her eyes opened and there was a ferocity in her green depths. "I mean it! I want you back in one piece with no major injuries!"
Sakura could see the subtle shift under his mask; it was amazing how disarming his smile could be even when she couldn't actually see it.
He teased her with a chuckle. "Yes, sensei."
"Don't call me that," she grumbled.
"I'm sorry I can't walk you home," he suddenly said with a stroke of his thumb on her skin.
"It's okay, I understand."
"Sakura, I don't have a lot of time, but I wanted to properly return this to you."
She looked at him with a questioning gaze as his fingers twitched against her, and then there was this pulse, this sensation, that just seemed to ripple out from him and into her. He pressed forward, and Sakura barely saw the fabric of his mask slip away before his lips fused to hers. His mouth moved against hers with an overwhelming hunger, preparing her for when he made the ultimate move to deepen the kiss. His other arm came around her, his hand resting on her lower back. She granted him access the moment she felt his tongue swipe at her lips; the world around her disappeared as he pulled her closer, feeling his strong chest and his fingers pressing into her skin just above her shorts.
His mouth was so warm and there was a hint of mint - and promise, and hope, and electricity - as their tongues glanced and grazed. She could nearly taste the passion in his kiss and it was dizzying.
He pulled away and for a brief moment the cool air around them rushed in before he captured her lips again. The intensity of the moment began to fade, but the flames continued to jump between them as their mouths meshed together again and again before they slowly parted. His lips lingered just before hers as they caught much needed breath. His hand moved from her back, but she remained up on her toes with her hands clutching onto his shoulders.
She forced her eyes to open as she felt his thumb drag across her bottom lip. She still found herself breathless and his name came out like a sigh. Her entire body seemed to be buzzing and she could only imagine that her lips were just as kiss-bruised as his.
"I'll be back soon," he whispered.
She nodded. "I'll be waiting."
He ran his fingers down the side of her face and pressed a final chaste kiss to her mouth before pulling his mask back in place. His gaze lingered on her for a moment and then he spun around, and Sakura watched as his back receded.
The next six days would feel much longer, but she had reports to write and files to read; she had training and friends to keep her busy, not to mention the lack of groceries and clean clothes. Still, every day, and in every task she did, she couldn't help but wonder if Kakashi was doing okay - if the mission was going well, if he was hurt, if he was making his return. Every day closed with no word, and every time she fell into bed she closed her eyes trusting that he'd come back soon.
And he did - when she least expected it.
Sakura had been fast asleep, eyes darting beneath the lids as she dreamed. In her dream she was walking beside Kakashi as they followed Naruto to Ichiraku's. When they received their orders, Sakura suddenly shrank and fell into the bowl of ramen, only for Kakashi to dive in and rescue her. Then suddenly they were in her room and he undressed her from the ramen-soaked clothes and then licked her clean - like a cat - before he picked her up and put her in bed. He slid in next to her and that was when her dream went from absurd to realistic, and she could actually feel him touch her as he swept his fingers across her forehead, pushing hair out of the way. She could hear his voice as he whispered that he was home and she could even smell him.
Kakashi watched as her brows knit together. He didn't want to wake her, but he told her he'd come and all he had wanted was this moment right here. Lying beside her in her bed, he gently lowered his head to her pillow and grinned to himself as she murmured something incoherent.
After completing the mission and traveling nearly all day he was tired, but right now he found himself wide awake and unable to keep his eyes off her - his Sharingan eye cracked gently open and watching her with sincerity. He had been ashamed for denying it to himself, for it taking almost losing her - twice - to admit that he felt something for her, and that it was okay for him to feel it. Here in her bedroom, basked in moonlight and a serene quiet, it was easy to forget all of the excuses he made up.
Tentative fingers skimmed across her shoulder and slid down her arm. His action caused her to turn completely toward him, and it was when she curled up to him that he noticed the goose bumps on her skin. As she settled in beside him, like she was subconsciously seeking out his warmth, he gingerly circled his arm around her and rested his hand on her shoulder. He didn't dare try to pull her closer; he simply held her there and was content.
It was just as he was giving in to the comfort of his surroundings, letting his eyes drift close to the allure of rest that Sakura stirred. Her fingers twisted in the fabric of his shirt before pulling away, and then her palm rested flat against his chest. It was as if she began to realize that there was something solid there. Her eye twitched and her shoulder shrugged forward, and he offered up a sleepy grin as her eyes began to flutter open.
Twin leafy-green eyes laced with sleep pinned to his face, and he watched as she became fully aware of who was with her. She jerked back and then grabbed his shirt and pulled herself closer. "Kakashi...! You made it back."
He hugged her against him and nodded, humming into her hair. "I told you I would."
"I'm so glad."
His hand smoothed across her back. "Go back to sleep. I didn't mean to wake you."
She grinned into his chest. "It's you... so I don't mind."
Silence fell over them as she absorbed the sensation of his hand rubbing back and forth, lulling her back to sleep. Her arm snaked around him and her hand slid up, fingers curling into silken hair and massaging at the nape of his neck. It felt so nice that he couldn't help the appreciative noise of pleasure that bubbled up.
She could feel his movements slowing and a small, quiet laugh worked out from between her lips. "Goodnight, Kakashi."
His hand pressed firmly against her and he mumbled a faint, "Goodnight."
.xXx.
As Kakashi woke in the morning, he knew just from the comfort of the bed that he was not in his. The smell overwhelmed him; it was everywhere and it was heaven. He'd know it anywhere, too. Then he recalled sneaking into her house after stumbling into the village dog-tired just because he had wanted to see her. He reached out to his side and felt nothing but flat mattress, so he peeled open an eye. The sun was bright and as he adjusted to the light, he found the bed was empty.
He stretched his travel-worn body and then sat up, looking around. He listened carefully, but didn't hear any other noise within her apartment; however, the subtle scent of rice met his nose and he rolled out of bed with a grin on his face. Barely a noise was made as he entered the kitchen, only to find it empty as well. There was a tented piece of paper with his name on it sitting in front of the cooker. His stomach growled at the increased smell of food, but he ignored it for a moment and picked up the note.
Called in on emergency. Be back soon. Help yourself to whatever you'd like. There's a clean towel in the bathroom if you need it.
Another roar sounded in his belly and he patted it with a murmur to shut up and he'd feed it. Pulling down a dish and gathering his utensils, he scooped some rice out and found some eggs. Such simple food, and yet he was starving for it - it was so much better than the dry ration bars he had forced down the past week.
Kakashi was about mid-way through devouring his meal when there was a loud rap on the door. He paused with the spoon near his lips and glanced over at the entryway. The knock came again, followed by a familiar voice.
"Sakura? We... we were worried."
The jounin rested the spoon beside his dish and then fixed his mask in place. He considered, for a brief moment, how upset Sakura would be once she knew he talked with her dad again. But he could hear the concern in his voice as he asked for her to please, open the door and he couldn't let the man go on worrying about her.
Mind set, he made his way to the door and opened it with such a quick action that he startled both of her parents. Her mother, corn silk hair pulled back and eyes widened in surprise, remained staring and unspeaking. Her father, on the other hand, visibly relaxed and brought a weak smile to his lips.
"Hatake-san, you're here."
He gave a firm nod. "Would you like to come inside?"
The dark plum-haired man nudged his wife who refused to budge from her spot. She seemed less surprised now, and more spiteful. Her eyes had hardened and she glared at her husband as he ushered her in. Kakashi took in a deep breath as he shut the door - this was probably a really bad idea.
As he turned around he noticed the way Sakura's mother was eyeing his place at the table. He didn't let it bother him, and he sat down with a gesture toward the cooker. "There's some rice and eggs if you're hungry."
She let out an irritated sigh and turned away, setting her eyes hard on the refrigerator. Her father sat next to him. "You must be watching over her again."
"Sakura takes care of herself pretty well; this is more for my sanity than hers."
He chuckled. "Nonetheless, thank you for looking after her. Is she sleeping?"
Kakashi adjusted himself in the seat. "Actually, she's not here."
Her mother spun around. "And you invited us in anyway? What a waste of time!"
"Mebuki..." the older Haruno's voice came out soft and nearly pleading before facing the ninja again. "We just wanted to make sure she was alright. We heard from the Yamanakas about her being hospitalized after coming home from the last mission. Is she doing okay?"
"She is. She was actually called in to the hospital this morning," Kakashi answered, and then clarified, "to help."
"See? She's fine. Let's go."
Kakashi couldn't quite understand how a person could act so coldly when it came to their own child, and he didn't like seeing Sakura so upset by it all when she was a great woman they should be proud of. She shouldn't have been shunned for her decisions.
"Why are you here?" The question came out of his mouth before he could stop it, and he waited for her mother to quit gaping at him before he continued. "Somewhere inside you must still love and care about your daughter, or else you wouldn't be here, even if you act like you can't stand a single second of it."
"Who do you think you are to question me?" she snapped.
"I'm someone who has watched Sakura grow from a shy, timid girl to a fierce and loyal fighter. I've seen her give her heart away numerous times to numerous people with every healing touch. I've watched her save lives and defend the honor of those people that have chosen to remain by her side-"
"Cause they're all chasing the same stupid, dangerous ideal!"
"But you're wrong. What Sakura fights for isn't stupid, because she fights for life and all the wondrous things that go along with it, including her mother's love. I never knew my mother; I don't know what that kind of relationship is like. But you're well and living not far from her and yet you willingly deny it to her. Still, she doesn't give up hope - which is something a lot of us have lost a long time ago - and I'm not a parent, but I think that's something anyone would be proud of."
Her father reached across the table and touched Kakashi's arm; he smiled at the nin and mouthed a 'thank you.'
All three of them turned their heads as the door opened. Sakura froze as she walked inside, the smile slipping from her face almost instantaneously. She looked between the three of them, her defenses already rising, as she took a cautionary step back. "Mom..."
Feeling suddenly very out of place, Kakashi stood and looked back at her. "I should probably go-"
"No," the medic interrupted, "you stay there." Sakura clenched her hands to keep her fingers from fidgeting. "Mom, what are you- I mean, I'm glad..."
"Your father and I just came by to check on you. We had to hear from the Yamanaka girl and not you," her mother said, her voice turning accusatory.
"Like you would've even listened if I had showed up at your doorstep," Sakura snapped back.
"You could've at least tried."
"Gee, Mom, maybe I'm tired of trying because every time I try with you all I get are icy glares, cold shoulders, and even colder doors slammed in my face! How? You're my mother, how could you do that to me?"
Her father tugged on Kakashi's sleeve and motioned for him to get up, as if he wanted them to try to make a break for it before it got too ugly. They were both inches off the chairs when both of the Haruno women turned to them and yelled, "Sit down!"
Silence fell around them, and both men could feel the heated energy passing between Sakura and her mother. The medic finally broke and sighed, closing her eyes. "If you don't have anything to say-"
"I have plenty to say, young lady!"
Sakura was tired, and it was obvious to Kakashi now as she let her shoulders drop. "Then say it."
The frustration came through her mother's eyes, but her stubbornness outweighed anything else. She remained defiant until the very end. "I can't. I won't."
"Then you don't have anything to say. Thank you for checking on me, but I'm doing fine."
The older woman straightened, as if offended, and turned away before stalking towards the door. "Kizashi! We're leaving!"
Sakura looked over at her father as he rose from the chair, an apologetic smile on his face. He squeezed her shoulder as he passed by. "I'm so glad you're alright."
"Thanks, Dad."
Kakashi watched her silently as she remained standing there until the door closed, signaling their departure. She pulled out the chair adjacent to him and sat down with a plop and a sigh. "Sorry you had to see that, but there really wasn't any need for you to leave."
"I let them in," he confessed. When she looked at him, questioning and wide-eyed, he continued, "I heard your father and he sounded worried. I didn't know she was with him."
She deflated. "It's okay. I would've been surprised, too, if I opened my door and saw her there. I don't know why she came..."
"I think she still cares about you."
She laughed bitterly. "She has a funny way of showing it."
"She doesn't know how to show it, Sakura. If she truly wanted nothing to do with you, she wouldn't have shown up at all. You should take that to mean something."
She smiled - it was small and brief, but it was a smile - and she nodded. "I guess so..." She glanced over at his half-eaten food and grinned as she gestured to it. "Good?"
"Of course. You hungry?"
"No, actually, I think I want some tea. Want some?"
"Thank you."
Sakura got up, pulled down the kettle, and filled it with water. The chance encounter with her mother left a sour taste in her mouth, but she was glad that Kakashi was there with her. She set it on the burner and then pulled out the bag of tea leaves and two cups. She was just about to sit with Kakashi again when there was another knock on the door. She gave him a little smile before walking over to answer it.
The blonde on the other side made her frown. "What? Didn't yell at me enough?"
Her lips were pressed into a hard, thin line, but she stomped forward and wrapped her arms around a very shocked Sakura. The medic stilled and turned to look back at Kakashi who seemed to be wearing a grin of his own. The rosette lifted her hands and cautiously set them on her mother's back, returning the awkward gesture of a hug. Her mother promptly pulled away then, holding her at arm's length. Her eyes were tearful, but she didn't say a word. She only gave a quick nod and a tiny clear of her throat before letting her go and hurrying away.
Sakura took a step backwards and shut the door before spinning to face Kakashi. "I have no idea what just happened."
"That was your mother telling you that she still loves you."
Chapter Rating: T
Words: 4,604
A/N: I've been absent lately for some personal reasons. I was nearly done with this chapter when something happened and I decided to change how the end of this chapter played out. I think about one more installment and this will be done. Thanks for reading and I hope you like this one.
- Part XIII -
Three days later, Kakashi entered Sakura's room with quiet steps. He closed the door behind him with barely a sound and left the lights off; he figured she needed the rest still. Tsunade had cleaned her up well and looking at her against the pristine sheets of the hospital bed, she looked perfectly healthy and normal. The bandage around her left wrist was the only visual reminder of what had transpired, but it'd be hard to ever forget.
He felt heavy as he sank into the chair beside her. Looking over her serene face, he brushed some hair away from her eyes and let out a sigh. "You're always asleep when I visit."
He missed the way her brows knit together as he was focused on her arm, deliberating on whether or not he should touch her. He chose to smooth his knuckles down her forearm, turning his hand over to let his fingers skim across hers.
A small moan caused his gaze to snap towards her face. She pulled a face and opened her eyes, blinking them a couple times before frowning at him. "Why don't you visit when I have people poking at me and keeping me awake? Instead you come during the few hours I can actually sleep..."
He let out a tiny chuckle and turned his face down to hide his grin as if she could see through his mask. "Sorry."
She yawned and moved her hand over his, squeezing his fingers. "Was I really out for a whole day and a half?"
He nodded "Two if you count the return trip home."
She hummed to herself before bringing her hands up to inspect her fingers. She scratched absently at the bandage around her wrist. "Tsunade waited barely long enough for me to gain consciousness before yelling at me."
A slight sense of mirth coated his words. "Yeah, we heard."
She groaned. "She said I was lucky that I didn't do any permanent damage."
"You still shouldn't have done that. I had it under control; I had a plan."
"It was a stupid plan!" Sakura snapped. "What did I tell you that day in the forest, when we were on the way back to the clinic?"
Kakashi averted his gaze, looking down at his hand on her bedside. "I know," he admitted in a quiet voice.
"Then why do you keep insisting on dying for me?"
"Sakura-"
"I know that war has taken something from all of us, but has it really made death such an appeasing aspect to you?"
"I just wanted to protect you." His voice was coming thick. "I saw my opportunity to do so close faster and faster. I couldn't bear being the reason for someone else I cared about to lose their life. I just-"
"Kakashi," she interrupted with a sigh and reached over to him. He took her hand and she pulled it closer to herself. "Still warm," she murmured before lacing their fingers together. "Kiku played dirty, but we've all got a bit of darkness inside us, don't we?"
"You were conscious for all of that?"
She nodded, holding his gaze. "The path we've chosen isn't an easy one, and no matter how superior some others see us, at the end of it all we're just human. I won't say anything to anyone-"
"I know you won't," he butted in. "And I'm really grateful for that."
"But what she was talking about... what happened exactly?"
Kakashi could feel his body tighten up. His thoughts immediately went racing to the medic he had grown up with. That was a story he had wanted to take to the grave with him, and he wasn't sure if he could share such a traumatic event with Sakura. "The medic she mentioned was a member of my team-"
"I've seen the picture," Sakura interjected. "I mean, I know you wouldn't kill someone without cause. Kiku seemed convinced that you killed Shintaro over something small, but I know you better than that."
He relaxed a bit, feeling relieved that she wasn't talking about Rin - and guilty for assuming she had been. But comforted, he leaned forward and rested his elbow on her bed. "I did come across him in the reserves, but he wasn't just filing; he was stealing documents. I caught him red-handed and he put up a fight when I went to secure him to take him in. He had every intention to kill me and in the end I did what I had to."
"Who knows what could have happened if he hadn't been found out," she mumbled.
Kakashi shrugged a little. "When his belongings were searched a half-written coded letter was found with locations of our bases along the border. It could've been really bad."
Sakura seemed to sink into her bed a little. "And Kiku never knew the truth about him. She believed in him until the very end... maybe it was a good thing she didn't know who he was."
"Are you kidding me? She kidnapped you and almost killed you just out of revenge for what she thought was true."
"But her biggest regret was that he never knew she loved him. That's far easier than feeling betrayed by someone you love, than the disappointment in that person for being able to do such a thing. It may be naive, but at least she went out thinking it was all for love."
Kakashi looked at her in silence, unaware of how his thumb began to trace light, tiny circles on the inside of her bandaged wrist. "It's all over now, Sakura."
Her hold flexed and tightened in his. "Yeah, I'm glad to be back home... with you."
Neither of them could quite understand it, but they could both feel it - the warmth that grew where their hands met, the subtle rising of fine hairs, the anticipation of something encroaching upon them making stomachs clench, and hearts flutter, and breath hitch and heighten. It was as if every confession, and touch, and discovery all began to settle in at once because now they were home - together - and it had never felt so good.
The door to her room flew open and the lights were flicked on as their guest stomped into the room, effectively destroying whatever was building between them just then.
A finger boldly pointed at Kakashi's face as he straightened to look up the stiff arm. "Hey, Kaka-sensei, you can't let Sakura get hurt like that again!"
The masked nin pointed to himself in question and then turned to Sakura. The medic growled and threw a punch into the blond's arm. "Naruto! He can't control me."
"You heard the woman," Kakashi agreed.
"I did it all myself," she continued.
Naruto huffed and crossed his arms. "Yeah, but he was there to keep stuff like that from happening in the first place."
"Not everything always goes as planned or do I have to remind you about your first jounin mission?"
Naruto promptly turned green and uncrossed his arms, raising one to scratch at the back of his head nervously as he looked to be fighting down a squirm. "Hey, you promised! I don't ever want to think about that again..."
She grinned wickedly and Kakashi decided that he may have to get that story out of Sakura later. The rosette grabbed Naruto by the arm and pulled him to sit down on the edge of the bed. "Okay, so just drop the whole thing and let's spend some time together. Ever since you started your new training the three of us hardly get to be together."
Whiskered cheeks puffed up with a grin as Naruto murmured, "And even then we're usually visiting Kaka-sensei in the hospital."
"I think we've shared more food here than anywhere else."
"You do know I'm right here," Kakashi deadpanned.
Naruto and Sakura looked to each other before breaking out into laughter. Kakashi sighed, but was smiling beneath the mask. Even under the circumstances it was nice being with them, hearing them laugh, and seeing how their eyes lit up. Kakashi was right here, and there wasn't anywhere else he wanted to be.
.xXx.
It was another two days before Sakura saw Kakashi again, and she was excited because she was being released - with strict orders from Tsunade to get rest and limit her chakra use.
She had changed out of the horribly drab and drafty hospital gown and she felt more normal as she tied her hitai-ate in place. She had just finished packing up her toiletries in her bag when there was a light knock on the door before it opened just a crack.
"May I come in?"
She grinned as she grabbed the zipper. "Yeah, come on in."
Her smile grew as she heard the door open fully and she pulled her bag closed. "You are right on time to walk me home."
When she turned around to face him, she was shocked to see that he was in full jounin garb, a pack strapped to his back. She couldn't prevent her smile from slipping. "You can't be..."
"I'm leading a cell to back up Gai and his team. We shouldn't be gone too long."
"But... but there's so much-"
He surprised her again when he stepped closer, his gloved hand cupping her cheek. "I know."
She closed her eyes, giving in to his touch for however long she could. "Please, be careful."
"I will."
Her eyes opened and there was a ferocity in her green depths. "I mean it! I want you back in one piece with no major injuries!"
Sakura could see the subtle shift under his mask; it was amazing how disarming his smile could be even when she couldn't actually see it.
He teased her with a chuckle. "Yes, sensei."
"Don't call me that," she grumbled.
"I'm sorry I can't walk you home," he suddenly said with a stroke of his thumb on her skin.
"It's okay, I understand."
"Sakura, I don't have a lot of time, but I wanted to properly return this to you."
She looked at him with a questioning gaze as his fingers twitched against her, and then there was this pulse, this sensation, that just seemed to ripple out from him and into her. He pressed forward, and Sakura barely saw the fabric of his mask slip away before his lips fused to hers. His mouth moved against hers with an overwhelming hunger, preparing her for when he made the ultimate move to deepen the kiss. His other arm came around her, his hand resting on her lower back. She granted him access the moment she felt his tongue swipe at her lips; the world around her disappeared as he pulled her closer, feeling his strong chest and his fingers pressing into her skin just above her shorts.
His mouth was so warm and there was a hint of mint - and promise, and hope, and electricity - as their tongues glanced and grazed. She could nearly taste the passion in his kiss and it was dizzying.
He pulled away and for a brief moment the cool air around them rushed in before he captured her lips again. The intensity of the moment began to fade, but the flames continued to jump between them as their mouths meshed together again and again before they slowly parted. His lips lingered just before hers as they caught much needed breath. His hand moved from her back, but she remained up on her toes with her hands clutching onto his shoulders.
She forced her eyes to open as she felt his thumb drag across her bottom lip. She still found herself breathless and his name came out like a sigh. Her entire body seemed to be buzzing and she could only imagine that her lips were just as kiss-bruised as his.
"I'll be back soon," he whispered.
She nodded. "I'll be waiting."
He ran his fingers down the side of her face and pressed a final chaste kiss to her mouth before pulling his mask back in place. His gaze lingered on her for a moment and then he spun around, and Sakura watched as his back receded.
The next six days would feel much longer, but she had reports to write and files to read; she had training and friends to keep her busy, not to mention the lack of groceries and clean clothes. Still, every day, and in every task she did, she couldn't help but wonder if Kakashi was doing okay - if the mission was going well, if he was hurt, if he was making his return. Every day closed with no word, and every time she fell into bed she closed her eyes trusting that he'd come back soon.
And he did - when she least expected it.
Sakura had been fast asleep, eyes darting beneath the lids as she dreamed. In her dream she was walking beside Kakashi as they followed Naruto to Ichiraku's. When they received their orders, Sakura suddenly shrank and fell into the bowl of ramen, only for Kakashi to dive in and rescue her. Then suddenly they were in her room and he undressed her from the ramen-soaked clothes and then licked her clean - like a cat - before he picked her up and put her in bed. He slid in next to her and that was when her dream went from absurd to realistic, and she could actually feel him touch her as he swept his fingers across her forehead, pushing hair out of the way. She could hear his voice as he whispered that he was home and she could even smell him.
Kakashi watched as her brows knit together. He didn't want to wake her, but he told her he'd come and all he had wanted was this moment right here. Lying beside her in her bed, he gently lowered his head to her pillow and grinned to himself as she murmured something incoherent.
After completing the mission and traveling nearly all day he was tired, but right now he found himself wide awake and unable to keep his eyes off her - his Sharingan eye cracked gently open and watching her with sincerity. He had been ashamed for denying it to himself, for it taking almost losing her - twice - to admit that he felt something for her, and that it was okay for him to feel it. Here in her bedroom, basked in moonlight and a serene quiet, it was easy to forget all of the excuses he made up.
Tentative fingers skimmed across her shoulder and slid down her arm. His action caused her to turn completely toward him, and it was when she curled up to him that he noticed the goose bumps on her skin. As she settled in beside him, like she was subconsciously seeking out his warmth, he gingerly circled his arm around her and rested his hand on her shoulder. He didn't dare try to pull her closer; he simply held her there and was content.
It was just as he was giving in to the comfort of his surroundings, letting his eyes drift close to the allure of rest that Sakura stirred. Her fingers twisted in the fabric of his shirt before pulling away, and then her palm rested flat against his chest. It was as if she began to realize that there was something solid there. Her eye twitched and her shoulder shrugged forward, and he offered up a sleepy grin as her eyes began to flutter open.
Twin leafy-green eyes laced with sleep pinned to his face, and he watched as she became fully aware of who was with her. She jerked back and then grabbed his shirt and pulled herself closer. "Kakashi...! You made it back."
He hugged her against him and nodded, humming into her hair. "I told you I would."
"I'm so glad."
His hand smoothed across her back. "Go back to sleep. I didn't mean to wake you."
She grinned into his chest. "It's you... so I don't mind."
Silence fell over them as she absorbed the sensation of his hand rubbing back and forth, lulling her back to sleep. Her arm snaked around him and her hand slid up, fingers curling into silken hair and massaging at the nape of his neck. It felt so nice that he couldn't help the appreciative noise of pleasure that bubbled up.
She could feel his movements slowing and a small, quiet laugh worked out from between her lips. "Goodnight, Kakashi."
His hand pressed firmly against her and he mumbled a faint, "Goodnight."
.xXx.
As Kakashi woke in the morning, he knew just from the comfort of the bed that he was not in his. The smell overwhelmed him; it was everywhere and it was heaven. He'd know it anywhere, too. Then he recalled sneaking into her house after stumbling into the village dog-tired just because he had wanted to see her. He reached out to his side and felt nothing but flat mattress, so he peeled open an eye. The sun was bright and as he adjusted to the light, he found the bed was empty.
He stretched his travel-worn body and then sat up, looking around. He listened carefully, but didn't hear any other noise within her apartment; however, the subtle scent of rice met his nose and he rolled out of bed with a grin on his face. Barely a noise was made as he entered the kitchen, only to find it empty as well. There was a tented piece of paper with his name on it sitting in front of the cooker. His stomach growled at the increased smell of food, but he ignored it for a moment and picked up the note.
Called in on emergency. Be back soon. Help yourself to whatever you'd like. There's a clean towel in the bathroom if you need it.
Another roar sounded in his belly and he patted it with a murmur to shut up and he'd feed it. Pulling down a dish and gathering his utensils, he scooped some rice out and found some eggs. Such simple food, and yet he was starving for it - it was so much better than the dry ration bars he had forced down the past week.
Kakashi was about mid-way through devouring his meal when there was a loud rap on the door. He paused with the spoon near his lips and glanced over at the entryway. The knock came again, followed by a familiar voice.
"Sakura? We... we were worried."
The jounin rested the spoon beside his dish and then fixed his mask in place. He considered, for a brief moment, how upset Sakura would be once she knew he talked with her dad again. But he could hear the concern in his voice as he asked for her to please, open the door and he couldn't let the man go on worrying about her.
Mind set, he made his way to the door and opened it with such a quick action that he startled both of her parents. Her mother, corn silk hair pulled back and eyes widened in surprise, remained staring and unspeaking. Her father, on the other hand, visibly relaxed and brought a weak smile to his lips.
"Hatake-san, you're here."
He gave a firm nod. "Would you like to come inside?"
The dark plum-haired man nudged his wife who refused to budge from her spot. She seemed less surprised now, and more spiteful. Her eyes had hardened and she glared at her husband as he ushered her in. Kakashi took in a deep breath as he shut the door - this was probably a really bad idea.
As he turned around he noticed the way Sakura's mother was eyeing his place at the table. He didn't let it bother him, and he sat down with a gesture toward the cooker. "There's some rice and eggs if you're hungry."
She let out an irritated sigh and turned away, setting her eyes hard on the refrigerator. Her father sat next to him. "You must be watching over her again."
"Sakura takes care of herself pretty well; this is more for my sanity than hers."
He chuckled. "Nonetheless, thank you for looking after her. Is she sleeping?"
Kakashi adjusted himself in the seat. "Actually, she's not here."
Her mother spun around. "And you invited us in anyway? What a waste of time!"
"Mebuki..." the older Haruno's voice came out soft and nearly pleading before facing the ninja again. "We just wanted to make sure she was alright. We heard from the Yamanakas about her being hospitalized after coming home from the last mission. Is she doing okay?"
"She is. She was actually called in to the hospital this morning," Kakashi answered, and then clarified, "to help."
"See? She's fine. Let's go."
Kakashi couldn't quite understand how a person could act so coldly when it came to their own child, and he didn't like seeing Sakura so upset by it all when she was a great woman they should be proud of. She shouldn't have been shunned for her decisions.
"Why are you here?" The question came out of his mouth before he could stop it, and he waited for her mother to quit gaping at him before he continued. "Somewhere inside you must still love and care about your daughter, or else you wouldn't be here, even if you act like you can't stand a single second of it."
"Who do you think you are to question me?" she snapped.
"I'm someone who has watched Sakura grow from a shy, timid girl to a fierce and loyal fighter. I've seen her give her heart away numerous times to numerous people with every healing touch. I've watched her save lives and defend the honor of those people that have chosen to remain by her side-"
"Cause they're all chasing the same stupid, dangerous ideal!"
"But you're wrong. What Sakura fights for isn't stupid, because she fights for life and all the wondrous things that go along with it, including her mother's love. I never knew my mother; I don't know what that kind of relationship is like. But you're well and living not far from her and yet you willingly deny it to her. Still, she doesn't give up hope - which is something a lot of us have lost a long time ago - and I'm not a parent, but I think that's something anyone would be proud of."
Her father reached across the table and touched Kakashi's arm; he smiled at the nin and mouthed a 'thank you.'
All three of them turned their heads as the door opened. Sakura froze as she walked inside, the smile slipping from her face almost instantaneously. She looked between the three of them, her defenses already rising, as she took a cautionary step back. "Mom..."
Feeling suddenly very out of place, Kakashi stood and looked back at her. "I should probably go-"
"No," the medic interrupted, "you stay there." Sakura clenched her hands to keep her fingers from fidgeting. "Mom, what are you- I mean, I'm glad..."
"Your father and I just came by to check on you. We had to hear from the Yamanaka girl and not you," her mother said, her voice turning accusatory.
"Like you would've even listened if I had showed up at your doorstep," Sakura snapped back.
"You could've at least tried."
"Gee, Mom, maybe I'm tired of trying because every time I try with you all I get are icy glares, cold shoulders, and even colder doors slammed in my face! How? You're my mother, how could you do that to me?"
Her father tugged on Kakashi's sleeve and motioned for him to get up, as if he wanted them to try to make a break for it before it got too ugly. They were both inches off the chairs when both of the Haruno women turned to them and yelled, "Sit down!"
Silence fell around them, and both men could feel the heated energy passing between Sakura and her mother. The medic finally broke and sighed, closing her eyes. "If you don't have anything to say-"
"I have plenty to say, young lady!"
Sakura was tired, and it was obvious to Kakashi now as she let her shoulders drop. "Then say it."
The frustration came through her mother's eyes, but her stubbornness outweighed anything else. She remained defiant until the very end. "I can't. I won't."
"Then you don't have anything to say. Thank you for checking on me, but I'm doing fine."
The older woman straightened, as if offended, and turned away before stalking towards the door. "Kizashi! We're leaving!"
Sakura looked over at her father as he rose from the chair, an apologetic smile on his face. He squeezed her shoulder as he passed by. "I'm so glad you're alright."
"Thanks, Dad."
Kakashi watched her silently as she remained standing there until the door closed, signaling their departure. She pulled out the chair adjacent to him and sat down with a plop and a sigh. "Sorry you had to see that, but there really wasn't any need for you to leave."
"I let them in," he confessed. When she looked at him, questioning and wide-eyed, he continued, "I heard your father and he sounded worried. I didn't know she was with him."
She deflated. "It's okay. I would've been surprised, too, if I opened my door and saw her there. I don't know why she came..."
"I think she still cares about you."
She laughed bitterly. "She has a funny way of showing it."
"She doesn't know how to show it, Sakura. If she truly wanted nothing to do with you, she wouldn't have shown up at all. You should take that to mean something."
She smiled - it was small and brief, but it was a smile - and she nodded. "I guess so..." She glanced over at his half-eaten food and grinned as she gestured to it. "Good?"
"Of course. You hungry?"
"No, actually, I think I want some tea. Want some?"
"Thank you."
Sakura got up, pulled down the kettle, and filled it with water. The chance encounter with her mother left a sour taste in her mouth, but she was glad that Kakashi was there with her. She set it on the burner and then pulled out the bag of tea leaves and two cups. She was just about to sit with Kakashi again when there was another knock on the door. She gave him a little smile before walking over to answer it.
The blonde on the other side made her frown. "What? Didn't yell at me enough?"
Her lips were pressed into a hard, thin line, but she stomped forward and wrapped her arms around a very shocked Sakura. The medic stilled and turned to look back at Kakashi who seemed to be wearing a grin of his own. The rosette lifted her hands and cautiously set them on her mother's back, returning the awkward gesture of a hug. Her mother promptly pulled away then, holding her at arm's length. Her eyes were tearful, but she didn't say a word. She only gave a quick nod and a tiny clear of her throat before letting her go and hurrying away.
Sakura took a step backwards and shut the door before spinning to face Kakashi. "I have no idea what just happened."
"That was your mother telling you that she still loves you."