He wanted to pick her up and lift her high in the air, so that everyone could see. She was his as much as he belonged to her.
But he knew her nature and understood that such an act of affection would not be appreciated, at noon and in the full streets of Konoha. So he restrained himself. But when they were alone, in a clearing at night with the rays of the moon shining bright, he let his feelings control his actions.
She did not quite understand his need to lift her up (she herself had never seen the way her eyes reflect the moons glow) but here, in the quiet and private, she did not mind receiving, or showing, such blatant acts of affection.
Out here she could hug him as tight and for as long as they both need it: the life of a ninja is a risky one, never knowing if you'll return safely. It took its toll on both their nerves.
In the darkness they can savour the presence of the other, in ways that they cannot do in front of judging eyes, and without having to worry about the excess gossip that'll undoubtedly circulate if they did.
Neither is ready for marriage just yet, but in their conversations lay the seed of lifelong commitment. Neither is backing down or running away, and the ever growing need of each other's company increases daily. Each step brings them closer to the greatest adventure of them all.
There is safety; for each know of their own importance to the other person and know, that in a time of need, they would never be turned away.
They talk over a plate of dango, sitting out on a bench when the sun shine; they share kisses in the dark when they know no one's around, her hand tangled in his hair. He buys her flowers after a fight (her room always smells of lilacs) and she likes to dress up a bit extra on special occasions just to be able to enjoy his reaction.
They're just like any other couple.
Hatake Kakashi and Hyuuga Hinata.