As the days passed, Sakura's physical and emotional wounds began to heal under the attentive care of both Tsunade and Kakashi. The medical equipment that had once surrounded her was gradually removed, and she no longer needed them. The light of her green eyes, which had been dimmed by pain and fear, slowly started to return.
For the first time in three years, since Sasuke's abuse started, she felt loved again.
"I don't want it anymore, Kakashi." Sakura grumbled in response to Kakashi's insistent prodding of the spoon on her mouth. She's too full, she can't take another bite.
Kakashi's relationship with Sakura deepened as he cared for her, non-stop. Sakura finally felt the affection that she was looking for in Sasuke's side.
"Sakura, it's the last bite. Please." Kakashi prodded the spoon to her again.
"This is the last bite?" Sakura asked him. She watched him nod, and she opened her mouth. Kakashi smiled behind his mask as Sakura ate it.
When Sakura swallowed the disgusting hospital food - which badly needed some salt - she glared at Kakashi, who is enjoying feeding her too much.
"You're not fair." Sakura grumbled and pouted.
Kakashi pouted at the childish whims that Sakura displayed. He sat on the side of the bed facing her. Sakura blinked at the closeness of Kakashi's face to her. She felt him cupped her face and rest his forehead against her.
"I just want you to be okay, Sakura." Kakashi said. His grey eyes mesmerizing Sakura.
Sakura was taken aback by Kakashi's close proximity and the intensity in his gaze. His words touched her heart deeply, and she could feel the genuine concern and affection he held for her. It was a stark contrast to the hurtful and abusive relationship she had endured with Sasuke.
Tears welled up in Sakura's eyes as she looked into Kakashi's eyes. "Kakashi, thank you," she whispered, her voice filled with emotion. She placed her hand on top of his, feeling the warmth of his skin against hers. "You've done so much for me. You've been there for me when I needed it the most."
Kakashi smiled behind his mask, and he gently ran his thumb over Sakura's cheek, wiping away a stray tear. "Sakura, I promise you I'll always be here for you. I'll protect you, support you, and make sure you're happy. You don't have to go through anything like this again."
Sakura's heart swelled with gratitude, and she felt a warmth that she hadn't experienced in a long time. With Kakashi by her side, she finally found the love and support she had been longing for. It was a new beginning, a chance for her to heal and rebuild her life, free from the darkness of her past.
Sakura leaned into him pressing her lips to his masked ones. Kakashi was momentarily taken aback by Sakura's unexpected but tender kiss. He could feel her gratitude and the depth of her emotions in that simple gesture. Despite the mask that covered his face, he leaned into the kiss, his heart pounding with affection and concern for her.
When they finally pulled away, Kakashi whispered, "Sakura, I'll always be here for you. I love you, and I'll make sure you're safe and happy. You don't have to worry about anything."
Sakura smiled, her eyes shimmering with tears of joy. "I love you too, Kakashi."
Kakashi's hearted soared in joy when he heard her words, he carefully pulled her to him. He never felt this happy since his father fetched him from the academy for the first time.
"I'll keep you safe, Sakura. I'll protect you with my life." he promised.
Sakura's heart swelled with happiness and relief as she nestled into Kakashi's embrace. She could feel the sincerity in his words, and it brought her a sense of comfort she hadn't known for a long time.
"Thank you, Kakashi," she whispered, her voice filled with love and gratitude. "You've already done so much for me. I'm so lucky to have you in my life."
Kakashi held her tightly, his masked lips pressing against her forehead in a gentle kiss. "I'm the lucky one, Sakura. You're strong, and you've been through so much. But from now on, we'll face the future together, and I promise to do everything in my power to ensure your safety and happiness."
With Kakashi by her side, Sakura found the strength to leave behind the dark chapters of her life and look forward to a brighter future. Their love and determination would see them through the healing process and bring them the happiness they both deserved.