Ah! Tomorrow I have school….the last two weeks of high school ever *gulp* then another week and I move back to the states Woot woot (queue Gai's signature smile and thumbs up) – and then college *cringe*

Alas I still will update during this time :-)

I thought through the rest of the story last night and figured out all the kinks and I hope it lives up to everyone's expectations.

I'm sorry-ish for the emotional (past 3 chapters) but I assure you happy times are going to be popping into these chapters :-)

That being said – there will be a period of sad chapters but then it'll be happy again and hopefully the two love birds will live happily ever after ^^ - let me rephrase that – the WILL live happily ever after

SO without further ado chapter 14

-14-

'So they're really gone.' Sakura whispered as she peered into the empty district that once housed her clan.

'They left right after your grandfather's funeral.' Kakashi spoke.

Sakura only nodded as they walked through the ghost town silently.

It had been two weeks since she had awoken from her comatose state. Three weeks from the day Madara had caused destruction in the village, the day Naruto was born. She had only been dispatched from the hospital four days ago.

She had been in a coma for 2 months, 2 weeks and 2 days.

She was left to mourn the loss of Kushina and Minato in her hospital bed, and at the same time celebrate the life of Naruto.

He was left in the care of the hospital during that time, while the new reinstated previous third Hokage, Sarutobi-sama, tried to recover the remnants of the village and find him a home. Sakura had offered to adopt Naruto, but her request was turned down as she was 'unfit'.

'You just came out of a coma; you need to take care of yourself before you take care of another.' Sarutobi spoke gently.

Despite that she had visited Naruto every day.

He looked so much like his father, but he had his mother's smile.

He was a ray of light during such a time of darkness.

There were many casualties during the attack, Kakashi informed her. She frowned.

'And how many are orphaned.' She looked at him

He looked into her eyes and spoke, 'Too many'

They continued their walk in silence through the empty district. They walked close together. Sakura was still weak, and so Kakashi offered his arm to support her as they walked side by side, one of her arms curled around his own.

She realized her and Kakashi had changed.

That moment she finally woke up in her hospital bed, it was just before dawn. She was alone; she didn't know what to do. So she sat there on her back and stared at the ceiling tiles, trying to collect remnants of her fleeting memory.

She then heard the door roll open, and for some reason without even turning to look who was there, she knew it was him. It was the most over whelming feeling she had ever felt, and she began to cry like a small child.

Within moments they were holding each other tightly, 'I should be the one crying' He whispered his voice cracked slightly.

His chin lay on the top of her head, and she cried and cried and cried.

'I guess I'm crying for the both of us.' She spoke quietly.

He chuckled softly, 'It's good to have you back.' He held her tighter.

She looked up at him and she broke into the most heartwarming smile, her dimples tingled at how big she smiled.

He could only return a crinkled eye.

That day it felt like all of Konoha sat in her room, as everyone came to 'welcome' her back. Anko had managed to smuggle some alcohol into the room, and the rest was history.

Despite being bombarded by people left right and centre, Kakashi always stayed within arm's reach. They were silent most of the time when they were together but it was as if their proximity was enough for them.

That night she had read Kushina's letter. He didn't leave until she fell asleep that night and wiped the last of her tears.

It wasn't until a week after that she met Naruto. She was too afraid, afraid that by looking at him all she'll see is his late parents' sacrifice.

It wasn't until three days later that she allowed herself to touch and hold him and not look at him from afar.

Kakashi opted out of being there during her visits. He felt it wasn't his place, that it was too personal.

After getting the 'ok' to check out of the hospital, it was only then she saw the full extent of damage that had been placed onto the village.

'Is this really Konoha?' Her voice cracked

Kakashi nodded sadly, the rest of their trek to Anko's apartment was silent as Sakura just looked at everything and everyone. Dust, debris and stone face's littered the streets. Memorabilia's of the late Hokage at every street corner.

Later that night they sat in Anko's apartment, 'You've missed out on the bulk of the conundrum princess, that much I envy you' Anko spoke quietly.

Kakashi and Anko spent the night informing Sakura what had happened the past ten weeks. Sakura didn't know how to feel, 'All this happened when I was unconscious. I can't believe it's been ten weeks.' she whispered sadly to herself. She then looked to them both, 'I'm sorry for all trouble I've caused all of you.'

Anko slapped her on the back, 'we are not having a pity party. We are here to celebrate life in all its glory.'

Kakashi gave Sakura a reassuring glance, and Sakura nodded at Anko.

Three glasses clinked.

'Konpai' (Cheers)

Not long after did Anko doze off on the small table, leaving Kakashi and Sakura to laugh, 'Old habits die hard, don't they.' Kakashi humored.

'Come on help me put her to bed.' She stood up quickly and moved to hold Anko's arm, Kakashi stopped her.

'You still need to build up your strength. I got her.' Kakashi spoke sternly

Sakura nodded and trailed Kakashi only helping him open the door to Anko's room.

Afterwards she ushered him to the front door, and watch him strap his sandals on.

'Do you have a mission tomorrow?' She said quietly.

Kakashi sparred her a glance and realized for the first time he didn't. For once he wouldn't leave her on short notice like he used to. He stood up and looked down at her, 'I'm working in the village for the next few days. Me and a few other Jounin are helping rebuild and recover some of the damaged areas.'

Sakura didn't look up at him the whole time she simply starred down at their feet.

'If you want we can get lunch together.' He inclined

She looked up quickly and gave a small smile, 'I'd like that'

He nodded and crinkled his eye, 'So...same place like always?'

'Is there any other place?' Sakura chuckled softly

'Eh I guess not' Kakashi spoke good naturedly.

They said their goodbyes and she shut the door after him.

The following three days she'd spend her mornings with Sasuke and Itachi. Mikoto stuffed her to a brim each time, and then she'd meet with Kakashi for lunch, which she couldn't finish. The rest of the day she'd stay at Anko's apartment resting or visiting Naruto in the hospital.

'You've lost too much weight.' Mikoto looked at her disapprovingly, 'I miss your round cheeks' She'd pout.

There was no objecting her offers; Sakura just ate what she was given. During this time she'd sit with Sasuke in her lap in the backyard and watch Itachi exhibit all the skills he had honed from Kakashi.

'I still like you better as a sensei Sakura-chan' he said cheekily one day, 'You'll still teach me right?'

'But of course, you're my favorite student after all.' Sakura replied pinching his cheeks.

'I'm your only student Sakura-chan' Itachi drawled, which caused Sakura to laugh and Sasuke to gurgle.

Afterwards Shisui came by and took Itachi along with him, something about a rematch, 'I'll see you tomorrow Saku-chan'

She waved back at him and looked down at Sasuke who had fallen asleep. She stood up slowly as not to rouse the sleeping child and walked slowly into the living area, where Mikoto had placed hot tea and fresh dango.

'Oba-san, seriously if you keep feeding me like this I'm going to get more than just chubby cheeks.' Sakura chided as she sat down in front of the spread.

'Nonsense' Mikoto waved her hand in front of her face.

'The doctor said it's going to take me a few weeks to recover anyway.' Sakura sighed, 'Until then I can't train.'

Mikoto scoffed pleasantly, 'A ninja who can't be a ninja. I'm sure there are other things you could do during this time.'

'In all honesty Oba-san, I don't think I want to be a ninja anymore – I mean I still want to be, but I don't think I can handle doing missions at this stage anymore. There's just so much I need to sort out for myself.'

Mikoto nodded her head in understanding as she sipped her tea, 'Have you talked to Kakashi about this?'

'I…no. I think I was planning to mention it to him today. I personally think he'd support this suggestion; he's been like a sitting duck with me being the way I am. I guess if I stayed in the village he wouldn't have to worry about me as much. He'd have a peace of mind that I'm safe here and I'm not in immediate danger.' Sakura spoke honestly.

'Your life isn't your own anymore; I guess you've realized that now. There are people who are counting on you.' Mikoto spoke pleasantly, smiling to herself, 'Well I'm sure you can do something in the village, you are of Jounin status, so there should be plenty of opportunities for you.' Mikoto spoke positively.

Sakura slipped a skewer of dango into her mouth and chewed. After she swallowed she spoke, 'Kushina-san told me to look after the children. She told me that I need to teach them the lessons I've learnt and what it means to be a true ninja of Konoha.' Sakura smiled remembering the letter.

'So your saying-' Mikoto realizing what Sakura was implying and Sakura smiled at her.

'I think I want to be a teacher at the academy.'

'It suits you. I've seen how you are with children, they adore you. Heck you might get Itachi-kun in your class; he might become a teacher's pet if you know what I mean.' Mikoto winked at Sakura.

They both shared a laugh.

'Sakura-sensei' Mikoto whispered, 'It has a nice ring to it.'

'It does'

And there she was walking with Kakashi in the empty district side by side after their lunch. 'I think I should talk to Sarutobi-sama and suggest that all the displaced citizens be relocated here.'

'I think that would be a good idea.' Kakashi nodded his head looking straight ahead.

There was silence again.

Sakura bit her lip, 'Kakashi?'

Her tone caught his attention, 'Are you alright' he spoke with concern stopping.

'I'm fine' Sakura sighed, 'I just want to ask your opinion on something.'

Kakashi nodded beckoning her to continue. She pulled his arm softly, coaxing him to start walking again. After a few steps she spoke, 'Remember how I talked to you about how I didn't want to take missions for a while even after I've recovered.' She looked up at him.

'Yes'

'I think I found something I'd do instead.' She hesitated for a moment, 'I think I want to be a teacher at the academy.'

Kakashi looked down at her for a moment, 'And this decision, is solely your decision, right? Nobody swayed you into making that decision.'

'I wouldn't say swayed. I mean I made the decision myself based on others inclinations about me.'

Kakashi nodded, 'Good'

'What do you think; I really want your opinion.' Sakura said softly

'If you're happy with the decision why should my opinion matter?' Kakashi mused

'Because I value your opinion.'

He looked at her from the corner of her eye, 'Sakura…you should know now that whatever makes you happy, makes me happy.' He turned his head away from her as he scratched his neck awkwardly.

Sakura's eyes widened and blushed at his words.

There was an awkward silence between them, but then Sakura wrapped her arm tighter around his, 'That's good, because I feel the same way.' She whispered quiet enough for only him to hear.

He smiled under his mask.

They reached the end of the district and walked towards the main road and their unlinked arms. Sakura teetered slightly but caught her balance. She looked up at Kakashi, 'I know there's something on your mind. You've been quieter than usual.'

Kakashi's eye widened in shock, nothing got passed Sakura.

'If you don't want to talk about it now, we can talk about it when you're ready.' She offered kindly. She tilted her head, 'Is it a mission?'

He shook his head.

He looked at her for a moment, considering whether or not to say anything, 'I just…tomorrow after you finish up with the academy. Can you go to the Hokage and see if you can get any more information on this 'Jashin' business you told me about.'

Sakura's gaze softened, 'Oh' he was still worried about that she thought. She recollected herself, 'Sure thing.' She said dismissively

'Sakura' he said sternly, 'This is really important.'

She smiled and saluted him, 'Yes sir!'

He looked at her and then sighed, 'I need to get back to work, or else I won't hear the end of it from the guys'.'

'Anko's having a get together tomorrow night at the bar, since we're all together again.'

Kakashi rolled his eye, 'Everything to that woman is a cause for celebration.' He grumbled

'I'll see you then Kakashi' She waved and began making her way towards the hospital to see Naruto.

'Ganbati Sakura-sensei' (Good luck) Kakashi said softly

Sakura eyes widened and she turned around to look at Kakashi, but he already disappeared. She blushed once again.

'You're such a shy man Kakashi' she chuckled to herself as she made her way towards the hospital.

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'Kakashi! What took you so long?' Genma shouted as he lifted some timber.

'I..uh just got lost on the path of life.' Kakashi chuckled nervously, Genma rolled his eyes.

'Whatever just hurry up. We need to finish up here by sun down.' Genma muttered he then walked past Kakashi, 'Just keep your love life out of your work life.' Genma winked at Kakashi.

Kakashi stiffened slightly but quickly collected his cool, 'I don't know what you're talking about.'

Genma smirked, 'Famous last words my friend.' He patted Kakashi on the shoulder, 'You got yourself a keeper, we're all rooting for ya''

Gai, Asuma and Raido gave Kakashi a chummy smile and a thumbs up.

Kakashi groaned, 'There's no such thing a privacy in this village.'

'Hey if walking arm in arm in deserted districts is your idea of a romantic date, we aren't to judge.' Genma said innocently.

Kakashi paled and then grumbled as he got to work, and he looked at Genma slyly, 'How are you and Anko going.'

Genma smiled lying through his teeth, 'Never better'

'Oi Genma are you talking about me again? I swear to god if you are I'm going stick that senbon in your mouth somewhere else.' Anko hollered from one of the construction sites.

Kakashi then patted Genma on the shoulder, 'Looks like you got your work cut out for you.' He teased.

'Shut up Hatake.'

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I don't know I felt weird about this chapter – I feel like it isn't written as well as the others ( maybe because there isn't as much drama)

But I hope you enjoyed the change of pace.

I is very mucho tres tired

Until next time

Much love,

Oxza